Independence Day and Janmashtami warrant some downtime from August 15 to 17 (Friday to Sunday). Fill your weekend with India’s bright and green spaces that surround the city of Mumbai.
Whether you plan to relax and take the days as they come or engage in activities with your loved ones, this list is sure to give you some ideas on how you can make the most of your long weekend.
Sydney Point and Parsi Point in Panchgani
Take a road trip to Panchgani, a hill station southeast of Mumbai, famously known for its strawberries and scenic views. Along those lines, Sydney Point and Parsi Point are two popular viewpoints — 10 minutes apart by car — that overlook Krishna Valley and Dhom Dham from two perspectives.
Sydney Point is named after British officer Sir Sidney Beckwarth. It offers breathtaking views of the Western Ghats and the historical Kamalgad Fort. If you’re looking to escape the hustle, bustle and car horns of Mumbai, Sydney Point is definitely the place for you.
Parsi Point is known for capturing stunning landscapes at sunrise and sunset, perfect for photographers. The warm hues of the sky, combined with the lush greenery of the hills, valleys and land below make for a vibrant panoramic view.
Murud-Janjira Fort
Murud-Janjira Fort is a short distance away from the coastal town of Alibaug. Located on the island of Murud village, it stands as one of the strongest historical marine forts in India.
Learn more about the country’s history from a visit to the 1100-year built structure, while observing carvings in the walls, ancient canons, mosques, temples and more.
There are no charges to enter the fort, but ticket prices for boats (or ferries) to the fort range from ₹20-50 and ₹100-300 for a large boat. The fort timings are from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Anchaviyo
For a more relaxing Independence Day weekend, visit this unique resort in Palghar, Wada. Right by the river and nestled between trees, Anchaviyo offers several activities with which you can fill your time, from kayaking to gym facilities to spending hours in their game room.
Each living complex has been meticulously designed to give you an individualised stay; from a countryside homestay with wood and white interiors (Bougainvillea Room) to a room shaped like a pyramid (Pyramid Room) to a chalet with an enormous swing that hangs below it and over the stream that runs beneath (Bee Hive).
Kashid Beach
A day at the beach is always a classic getaway option, and Kashid beach is calling your name. Located on the Konkan coast, nearest to Murud, it is considered one of the cleaner beaches in Maharashtra, layered with soft white sand and blue waters.
Although there are limited accommodations around the beach that are well-regarded, the quiet and serene surroundings make Kashid an ideal escape from Mumbai’s loud city streets. Take the weekend to relax and reset before getting back to the work week.
Vallonné Vineyards
Take a trip to Nashik for the long weekend and visit Vallonné Vineyards, a boutique wine estate, established in 2009. India’s first wine professional-turned-vintner, Shailendra Pai, combines innovation and a passion for wines to create a memorable and immersive experience for every guest.
The vineyards run alongside the banks of the Mukhne Dam, across a lush valley in a quiet Igatpuri village. Vallonné Vineyards offers a hotel, with rooms ranging from
₹6000 to ₹8400, as well as Yelloh!, a restaurant that serves fresh food — Indian, European and seasonal specials — sourced from the surrounding farms.
Vallonné Vineywards also offers a sweet tradition, where guests can own their premium wine, nurture it in barrels and be the proud owner of their very own exclusive label — to mark milestones and celebrations.
