Diwali 2022: The festive time is knocking at our doors. Diwali is the time to celebrate with family and friends and what better way to head out for a getaway so that you feel recharged and full of positive energy? Since Diwali is a long weekend, people are already making plans. Not just in India, the popularity of International destinations is also on an increase. Aditya Gupta, Senior Vice President, Hotels and Holidays at Yatra reveals, "Post the hiatus of two years, the festive season in 2022 has bounced back in full force and the travel demand for the Diwali weekend has increased. People are either traveling back home or to different destinations to celebrate festivities with their friends, family, and close ones. We at Yatra.com have witnessed great interest among people opting for domestic destinations such as Kerala, Himachal, Kashmir, Goa, Mysore, and Ooty."
"There is an uptick in demand for international destinations as people are planning their Diwali holiday trips to places like Dubai, Thailand, Maldives, Mauritius, and Bali. Travelers are currently preferring to stay in budgeted accommodations such as hotels and homestays as compared to deluxe resorts and villas. We are optimistic that this strong festive travel sentiment of travelers will strengthen the overall growth of the industry.” Aditya Gupta, Senior Vice President, Hotels and Holidays," he adds.
Below are some places that you can visit if you are planning a weekend trip with your close ones.
Kashmir
Heaven on Earth, Kashmir is a tourist hotspot throughout the year. During winters, snowfall can be enjoyed in the valley. You can also soak in the local culture and enjoy various delicious food items, especially non vegetarian. The ambience is serene and nature is at it's best at high altitudes.
Goa
This is probably the best time to hit the beaches of Goa. Tourists throng the city during this time. Goa is culturally rich and there is plenty for everyone to do. From adventure sports, to a relaxed resort getaway, and from sightseeing to lavish food and drink culture, make the best of your Goa trip with friends and family.
Mysore, Karnataka
The royal city, Mysore is rich in heritage. It has palaces that will make you feel like royalty. While in the city, one can also awaken their spiritual side. For foodies, there is plenty to enjoy, especially Mysore Pak. Shoppers can purchase Mysore silk and make the most if their trip to the Southern city.
Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Whether it is the spirituality that you are seeking or adventure, a quaint romantic holiday, or a trip with your gang; Rishikesh offers the best of all the worlds that there are. While the flowing Ganges and its white sand beaches surrounded by the hills lure nature lovers, river rafting, morning Yoga and local food are what attract many to India's yoga capital.
Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Set against the backdrop of the river Beas, the breathtaking mountains, and lush green lawns, Manali is perfect for a short holiday. The weather is pleasant and will certainly add to your trip to the hills.
Read: Diwali 2022 getaways near Delhi-NCR: Neemrana to Jim Corbett, pollution free celebration places
Dehradun, Uttarakhand
The lush and lovely mountain-scape of Dehradun is best enjoyed in this weather when winter is just setting in. Visit the city if you are looking for a quick vacation in the lap of nature.
Panchgani, Maharashtra
Panchgani provides visitors with an ideal blend of historic and scenic locations. It's perfect for large groups of friends or family, business retreats, or customised getaways. The property is 15 minutes from Mahabaleshwar and is surrounded by greenery, fresh air, and chirping birds, with terraces ideal for stargazing.
Read: Jodie Comer beats Zendaya, Bella Hadid, Beyoncé to become world's most beautiful face
Munnar, Kerala
Munnar is a scenic destination straight out of a fairytale. This quaint hill station is a romantic paradise nestled in the confluence of three mountain streams. The tea estates, Lakkam waterfalls, and Eravikulam National Park are some must-visit destinations for those who want to explore the unique and magnificent sights of the hill station and add more color to their Instagram feed.
Kutch, Gujarat
Aptly dubbed as the "White Desert of India", Kutch is a unique destination that exudes a surreal feeling that is unmatched and sure to add a touch of flair to your feed. The vast and expansive white salt desert coupled with a backdrop of a starry sky is sure to have you staring in awe at the pictures that come as a result of it.