Best Places to Visit in India for the Raksha Bandhan Long Weekend2025(Aug 15–17)
The long weekend between Raksha Bandhan and Independence Day (August 15–17) is one of the most convenient times for families, siblings, and friends to plan a short but refreshing holiday. With three days in hand, it’s ideal for those looking for quick holiday escapes in India.
This blog curates some of the best places to visit during the Raksha Bandhan long weekend, covering family holiday destinations in India and unique spots perfect for siblings to bond and explore. Instead of sticking to the usual tourist checklist, this list highlights seasonal travel ideas for the August long weekend, focusing on places that feel more personal, less rushed, and especially meaningful during the Rakhi festival, whether for the weather, travel comfort, or local celebrations.
In this Blog
North India
Binsar, Uttarakhand
If you’re looking for a peaceful forest retreat with clear views and light monsoon showers, Binsar in Uttarakhand is ideal. Located in the Kumaon region, Binsar is not as crowded as Nainital or Mussoorie during long weekends, yet it provides a unique experience that fits the vibe of Raksha Bandhan travel—a time of bonding and reflection.
Weather in Binsar: August brings cool mountain weather in Binsar with clean air and occasional drizzles. The weather is refreshing and ideal for short hikes, nature walks, or indoor relaxation.
Things to do in Binsar: A walk inside the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, visits to Zero Point for Himalayan views, and simple village trails near Almora are perfect for a slow holiday.
Best time to visit Binsar: Mid-August is ideal as the monsoon is light and the valley is at its greenest.
Amritsar, Punjab
Amritsar is not only about food and patriotism—it holds emotional value, especially during national festivals. Visiting the Golden Temple during the Raksha Bandhan long weekend adds a spiritual dimension to the celebration and aligns beautifully with the city’s cultural richness.
Weather in Amritsar: It’s warm in August, but evenings cool down after light rain, making late afternoon outings pleasant and comfortable.
Things to do in Amritsar: Visit the Golden Temple, Partition Museum, Gobindgarh Fort, and attend the Wagah Border ceremony for a dose of history and national pride.
Best time to visit Amritsar: The August long weekend is ideal, as the city celebrates Independence Day in Amritsar with energy and color.
Villa in Amritsar: Unwind at these beautiful villas in Amritsar, perfect to unwind with your family and have a beautiful long weekend getaway.
West India
Amboli Ghat, Maharashtra
For those in Mumbai or Pune looking for a monsoon weekend escape that’s not overcrowded, Amboli Ghat is a surprisingly calm pick. This hill station in the Sindhudurg region is known for its dense forests, misty landscapes, and natural springs, making it ideal for a Raksha Bandhan getaway in Maharashtra.
Weather in Amboli: Pleasant and cool throughout August, with consistent but manageable monsoon rainfall—great for those who enjoy the green charm of the season.
Things to do in Amboli: Visit the Amboli Waterfall, soak in the views at Mahadevgad Point, and explore butterfly trails—a treat for nature lovers and photographers.
Best time to visit Amboli: Mid-August is when Amboli is at its greenest, and road travel is still smooth, making it perfect for a short scenic trip.
Kumbhalgarh, Rajasthan
Not far from Udaipur, Kumbhalgarh brings a historical twist to the Raksha Bandhan long weekend. Known for the second-longest wall in the world, it’s an underrated gem and a quieter alternative to Rajasthan’s more tourist-heavy cities—ideal for a cultural getaway in August.
Weather in Kumbhalgarh: August weather in Kumbhalgarh includes occasional rain, which adds a mystical charm to the fort views and the surrounding Aravalli hills.
Things to do in Kumbhalgarh: Explore the majestic Kumbhalgarh Fort, enjoy the light and sound show, and take a scenic drive through the Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary.
Best time to visit Kumbhalgarh: Mid-August offers cooler weather, greener landscapes, and fewer tourists—perfect for a peaceful short trip.
South India
Araku Valley, Andhra Pradesh
A scenic hill destination in South India, Araku Valley is well connected by train from Vizag and makes for a family-friendly Raksha Bandhan getaway. Unlike more commercial hill stations in the South, Araku maintains a quiet, village-like atmosphere, perfect for a slow-paced holiday.
Weather in Araku Valley: August weather in Araku is cool, damp, and refreshing, with coffee plantations in full bloom thanks to the rain.
Things to do in Araku Valley: Explore the Tribal Museum, marvel at the Borra Caves, and enjoy the monsoon-fed Katiki Waterfalls—great for short excursions.
Best time to visit Araku Valley: The August rains revive the Araku Valley, turning the landscape lush and making scenic train rides and road trips especially memorable.
Coorg, Karnataka
Often referred to for its lush coffee estates, Coorg in August is a cool and comfortable pick for the Raksha Bandhan long weekend. With green hills, misty mornings, and a slower pace, it’s perfect for a relaxing escape. The mid-August monsoon makes the region fresh without disrupting travel.
Weather in Coorg: Early monsoon showers in Coorg begin to ease by August, creating a cool, travel-friendly climate that’s great for outdoor plans and short hikes.
Things to do in Coorg: Tour scenic coffee plantations, unwind at Raja’s Seat, visit the vibrant Namdroling Monastery (Golden Temple), and try traditional Kodava cuisine—perfect for a slow, immersive weekend.
Best time to visit Coorg: The August long weekend aligns with the tail end of heavy rains, making it a great time for monsoon travel in Coorg.
Villa in Coorg: Beautiful estate homes and private villas in Coorg—often located amid plantations—are popular among families and couples looking for privacy and views.
East India
Kalimpong, West Bengal
While Darjeeling often steals the spotlight, Kalimpong in August remains peaceful—even during Raksha Bandhan long weekends. For travellers from Kolkata or nearby cities, it’s a perfectly timed hill getaway in East India that offers tranquillity and stunning views.
Weather in Kalimpong: Expect light August rain in Kalimpong with pleasant breaks of sunshine. The post-rain freshness makes the town vibrant and perfect for slow travel.
Things to do in Kalimpong: Visit Zang Dhok Palri Monastery, explore the famed orchid nurseries, and unwind in river-view cafés that overlook the Teesta Valley.
Best time to visit Kalimpong: The second week of August is ideal, with fewer tourists and ideal conditions for quiet walks and scenic drives.
Villa in Kalimpong: Colonial homes and hill-facing villas in Kalimpong are available, especially near Deolo Hill.
Majuli, Assam
If you’re looking for a rare cultural getaway during the Raksha Bandhan long weekend, Majuli in Assam, the world’s largest inhabited river island, offers a deeply meaningful travel experience. It’s less about sightseeing and more about immersing in Assamese traditions and heritage.
Weather in Majuli: August weather in Majuli is part of the monsoon season, but boat travel remains safe and operational, offering a peaceful, rain-washed charm.
Things to do in Majuli: Visit traditional Sattras (Vaishnavite monastic institutions), meet local mask-makers, and enjoy authentic Assamese cuisine in quiet village settings.
Best time to visit Majuli: While winter is peak season, August travel to Majuli offers fewer crowds and a more intimate view of island life.
Central India
Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh
One of the most underrated hill stations in Central India, Pachmarhi in August is ideal for a 3-day Raksha Bandhan getaway from cities like Bhopal, Indore, or Nagpur. Known for its colonial architecture, serene forests, and spiritual caves, it’s a perfect blend of history and nature.
Weather in Pachmarhi: August monsoon in Pachmarhi brings moderate rainfall, which enhances the beauty of its caves, waterfalls, and viewpoints with misty greenery.
Things to do in Pachmarhi: Explore Jata Shankar caves, Pandav Caves, Bee Falls, and take easy hill treks for panoramic views.
Best time to visit Pachmarhi: The mid-August long weekend is excellent for family road trips or nature escapes with manageable rain.
Villa in Pachmarhi: Forest rest houses and an old British-era villa in Pachmarhi provide quiet comfort.
Bonus: Offbeat Beach Option — Gokarna, Karnataka
For those looking for a peaceful beach getaway during Raksha Bandhan, Gokarna offers secluded beaches, coastal treks, good food, and a slow pace that suits the festive and bonding mood. It’s a great alternative to Goa for those seeking quiet.
Weather in Gokarna: Gokarna weather in August is pleasant with light monsoon showers. The skies begin to clear by the second half of the month, making it perfect for beach walks.
Things to do in Gokarna: Trek between Om Beach, Half Moon Beach, and Paradise Beach, visit the Mahabaleshwar Temple, and relax in scenic, cliffside cafés.
Best time to visit Gokarna: The Raksha Bandhan long weekend sees fewer tourists than the peak winter months, making it one of the best times to visit Gokarna for peace and privacy.
Make the Most of Your Rakhi Weekend
With three well-placed days in mid-August, the Raksha Bandhan long weekend is a great chance to explore offbeat travel destinations in India that feel fresh, festive, and personal. Whether it’s the hills of Kalimpong, the cultural richness of Majuli, or the monsoon beaches of Gokarna, there are options for every kind of traveller.
These weekend getaways during Raksha Bandhan are not just about sightseeing — they’re about shared moments, reflection, and short pauses in busy schedules. Travelling during this time doesn’t require long travel itineraries or high costs. All it takes is choosing a place that fits your travel mood and going with the intent to unwind.
From family vacations to solo monsoon escapes, each of these top places to visit during Rakhi weekend in India offers something different — quiet, meaningful, and rooted in connection. This list is a thoughtful starting point for planning your August long weekend travel.
Image banner credits: Ravi Roshan via Pexels
Written by: Ruben Saha
