Plan a quick getaway this long weekend? Here are a few places you can consider

Reflection of the royal lineage
Jodhpur introduces anyone to a regal world juxtaposed with a rustic charm.
Region: Rajasthan
Royal forts and palaces that are remnants of the glorious past adorn the landscape of Jodhpur. One of the royal mansions include the Ratan Vilas, a 1920-structure that has been beautifully refurbished into a hotel provides a wondrous setting to recharge and enjoy Jodhpur’s magnificent setting.



The impressive Mehrangarh Fort, which is one of the oldest forts in India, offers sweeping views of the Blue City. In the shadow of the fort, Jodhpur’s colourful and vibrant market is an atmospheric collection of bustling stalls selling leather goods, spices and silks. One of the most fun activities for wildlife lovers and explorers is to hire a 4×4 vehicle and embark on a journey through the barren lands which bear different kind of life like blackbuck, foxes and blue bulls. A camel ride introduces one to the most beautiful bright red sun, slowly losing its influence on the golden sand.

Reconnecting with Indian roots
Punjabi community who are settled abroad look forward to visiting Amritsar
Amritsar
Region: Punjab

Amritsar, the spiritual capital of Punjab, is one of the most travelled tourist destinations. In fact, the Punjabi-speaking community has a large diaspora in Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the UK.



A visit to the Golden Temple, popularly called as Sri Harmandir Sahib, remains high on the agenda of every visitor. A trip to Amritsar is, in fact, incomplete without tasting the food (langar) at the service-based community kitchen in the Golden Temple.

Durgiana Temple, also known as Lakshmi Narayan, resembles the architecture of the Golden Temple, complete with a dome and a tank, which draws tourists from all over the globe.

Amritsar is also well-known for the historical relevance that Jallianwala Bagh holds, besides its proximity to Wagah Border, which is just 20km away. On this border, a retreat ceremony called ‘lowering of the flags’ is held every evening that draws spectators in hordes. A guided tour in the form of Amritsar Heritage Walk can take one through the more than 400-year-old history, culture and heritage of the city. Festivals such as baisakhi bring out Amritsar's resplendent face with its finest food, clothes and merry-making.

On a spiritual sojourn
Vrindavan is quite well-known for its countless antique and contemporary temples drawing hordes of Indians settled abroad.
Region: Uttar Pradesh

Over the years, religious tourism has emerged as a booming market drawing Indians settled abroad to holy cities like Vrindavan. Attracting millions of devotees every year, especially during festivals like janmashtami and holi, Vrindavan is well-known for its countless antique, but also contemporary temples. Some of the important temples in Vrindavan, includes Rangaji temple, which merges Rajput architectural style with south Indian flavour. The uniqueness of the Banke Bihari Temple lies in its surrounding natural forestlands, rivers and enchanting hilltops. ISKCON Temple is another versatile religious spot of Vrindavan.



Tourists from all over the world are also drawn to Vrindavan to catch a glimpse of India in all its colourful vibrancy.

Holding special relevance in hearts
Puri has several renowned temples drawing devotees from across the globe.
Region: Odisha
Puri holds a special relevance among the Indian diaspora. Famous for its historic antiquities, religious sanctuaries, architectural grandeur
and seascape beauty, Puri has some unique architectural monuments like those of Lord Jagannath temple, the Sun God at Konark that remain world renowned. The Chilika Lake–one of the largest brackish water lakes in India–holds a picturesque seascape beauty.



The famous Rath Yatra or the Car Festival is held every year as a part of the festival of the great Jagannath temple; it draws a large number of pilgrims from all over the world. During diwali, thousands of people gather at Jagannath temple in Puri to pay obeisance to their ancestors through the unique ritual known as ‘badabadua daka’.

The five-day Puri Beach Festival, which is held in November, has emerged as a major tourist draw, too.