Rejuvenate, Reset, and Relax This Upcoming Long Weekend.
This long weekend offers the perfect opportunity to connect with nature and align yourself before diving back into the everyday hustle. Whether you prefer the serene beaches or the wildness of the jungle, here are a few properties to consider for your getaway. Each of them celebrates the diversity, the cultural offerings and the richness of India.
RELAIS & CHÂTEAUXTHEMALABAR HOUSE
The Malabar House: A Heritage Haven and Art Hotel it is more than just a beautifully designed heritage hotel; it’s an art hotel, showcasing a meticulously curated collection that celebrates Kerala’s unique blend of Eastern and Western cultures. The rooms offer comfort, and the service is
impeccable.
Malabar Junction, the hotel’s acclaimed restaurant, and divine, its wine lounge, meld South Indian traditions with exciting culinary innovations. Guests can enjoy classical music or dance performances on the patio stage, rejuvenate their body and soul at the ayurvedic center, delve into the history and culture of Fort Cochin, or explore Kerala’s backwaters on the hotel’s eco-friendly houseboat.
Purespa introduces a revolutionary concept that combines invigorating traditional Ayurveda therapies with specialized Kalaripayattu, or Kalari Ayurvedic oil massages. As one of Asia’s oldest martial art forms, Kalaripayattu has developed its own Ayurvedic oil massage system over centuries. Purespa offers a wellness journey of distinct treatments aimed at relaxation, detoxification, and enhancing beauty.
Curated by Anita Lal, the founder of Good Earth, Sitara Himalaya showcases Indian design and culture at its finest. This intimate retreat merges luxurious comfort with spiritual wellness, making it an ideal escape. Sitara Himalaya ideal retreat for individuals aiming to unwind, revitalize, and recharge
Sitara Himalaya: For those seeking an idyllic retreat amidst the splendor of the Himalayas, Sitara Himalaya offers the perfect sanctuary. With just ten exclusive guestrooms, this haven embraces the Vedic principle of unity with the cosmos, providing an unparalleled opportunity to connect deeply with nature. Imagine pausing to appreciate the stars, the sunrise, the moon, and even the earth’s subtle hum in a serene, rejuvenating environment.
The culinary adventure at Sitara Himalaya is a highlight, featuring a variety of regional delicacies. From the rich flavors of the Khyber’s Tandoors and Chargrills to the unique dishes of Wazvan from Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh’s Noodle Thupkas and Momos, Himachal’s revered Dham Thali, and the fusion Anglo-Indian creations from the hill stations and dak bungalows, your taste buds are in for a treat.
SUJÁN JAWAI is committed to eco-friendly practices and conservation efforts, making it a great choice for travelers who value sustainability. The hotel also offers a refined dining experience with locally sourced ingredients and a focus on traditional Indian cuisine.
SUJÁN JAWAI – with a spectacular views of a dramatic wilderness, life at Suján JAWAI celebrates the great outdoors.
Spend unforgettable days on wilderness adventures and tracking leopards; breakfasts in the bush, yoga outdoors and delicious dinners under constellations of an unending starry sky. It is the most sophisticated and ecological way to discover a truly enchanting landscape. A wander to outlying villages allows immersive experiences of local culture and insights into some of the camp’s brilliant community projects. With just 10 tents including a Family and a Royal Suite, Jawai redefines sustainable luxury in the wilderness.
Jump on a Wildlife Safari as you explore Ranthambore National Park on guided safaris to spot tigers, leopards, and other wildlife. Soak in nature on Nature Walks as you are taken on guided walks through the jungle to discover the flora and fauna. Immerse yourself in the local culture with Cultural Tours as you visit nearby historical sites, including the 8th-century UNESCO Ranthambore Fort and temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha.
SUJÁN Sher Bagh is a luxury safari camp located in Ranthambore, Rajasthan, India. It offers an immersive wildlife experience with 12 luxurious tented accommodations inspired by the classic style of 1920s safari camps. The camp features custom-made campaign furniture, en suite bathrooms with brass bathtubs and open stone showers, and private verandahs overlooking the jungle.
Guests can enjoy sumptuous Anglo-Indian meals made from homegrown organic produce, relax by the campfire under starlit skies, and explore Ranthambore National Park, known for its tiger sightings. The camp also supports local communities through its association with Dastkar Ranthambhore, a non-profit organisation empowering women artisans
RELAIS & CHÂTEAUXRANBAAS THE PALACE
Patiala, Punjab
Beyond the suites, there’s a turquoise-tiled courtyard pool framed by rose-pink archways, a spa for long, unhurried afternoons, and gardens that invite you to wander. Guests can extend the journey with a cooking class, a walk through Patiala’s markets, or simply a massage at the end of the day. For a long weekend away from the usual, Ran Baas The Palace offers something quieter, a royal residence turned into a place to stay a while, and remember.
Ran Baas The Palace: Walk through the narrow lanes and bustling markets of old Patiala, and Ran Baas The Palace appears almost like a secret, tucked within the grounds of the historic Qila Mubarak complex. Once home to the Maharaja’s wives, the palace has been carefully brought back to life under the eye of architect Abha Narain Lambah, its rooms and suites lined in inlaid marble, dressed in gilded frescoes, silk carpets and crystal chandeliers that carry the splendor of centuries past. Most stretch well beyond a thousand square feet, opening onto spacious patios or private gardens, the kind of scale that makes you slow your pace without meaning to. An adults-only retreat, it holds onto a stillness that’s rare to find.
Meals lean firmly into Punjab’s own repertoire. The Neel restaurant serves regional flavours shaped by the local bazaars, rich kebabs, tandoori classics charred just right, and mutton curries that take their time. Come evening, The Patiala Bar carries the spirit of the city’s old hospitality, a place built for celebration. Breakfast finds its way into the building’s historic art gallery, light falling across the tables in a way that feels almost accidental remember.
Ran Baas The Palace: Walk through the narrow lanes and bustling markets of old Patiala, and Ran Baas The Palace appears almost like a secret, tucked within the grounds of the historic Qila Mubarak complex. Once home to the Maharaja’s wives, the palace has been carefully brought back to life under the eye of architect Abha Narain Lambah, its rooms and suites lined in inlaid marble, dressed in gilded frescoes, silk carpets and crystal chandeliers that carry the splendor of centuries past. Most stretch well beyond a thousand square feet, opening onto spacious patios or private gardens, the kind of scale that makes you slow your pace without meaning to. An adults-only retreat, it holds onto a stillness that’s rare to find.
Meals lean firmly into Punjab’s own repertoire. The Neel restaurant serves regional flavours shaped by the local bazaars, rich kebabs, tandoori classics charred just right, and mutton curries that take their time. Come evening, The Patiala Bar carries the spirit of the city’s old hospitality, a place built for celebration. Breakfast finds its way into the building’s historic art gallery, light falling across the tables in a way that feels almost accidental.
Ananda in the Himalayas: Set on a 100-acre estate once home to the Maharajah of Tehri Garhwal, Ananda in the Himalayas sits quietly in the Sal forests above Rishikesh, with the Ganges winding through the valley below and the mountains keeping watch from a distance. The old Viceregal Palace still holds its charm, the Viceregal Tea Lounge, the Maharajah’s billiard room, gardens that open onto sweeping mountain views, while the rooms, suites and villas lean into a gentler, more contemporary comfort. A handful of suites come with their own private gardens, and the villas open straight onto their own pools.
Wellness here isn’t an afterthought, it’s the whole point. Ananda draws together Ayurveda, yoga and Vedanta with international therapies, each guest’s journey shaped early on through a pre-arrival consultation with the resort’s doctors and practitioners. Days might begin with meditation as the sun comes up, move into a yoga class in an open-air pavilion, and settle into breakfast at the treetop restaurant, meals built around Ayurvedic principles but never short on flavour. The spa itself stretches across 24,000 square feet, room enough for everything from Reiki to reflexology to the deep, familiar comfort of a Swedish massage.
For a long weekend that asks you to slow down rather than fill up your calendar, Ananda in the Himalayas remains one of the few places built entirely around that idea, of finding, as its name suggests, a little bit of bliss.
There’s plenty to fill the days too, an infinity pool that seems to spill into the hills, a spa built for unhurried afternoons, and a sports arena for those who’d rather stay active with pickleball or padel. Some come for a wedding under Rajasthan’s open sky, others just for a long weekend of doing very little. Either way, Fairmont Udaipur Palace has a way of making you slow down and notice where you are.
Arrive at Fairmont Udaipur Palace and the city falls away almost immediately, the road climbs into the Aravalli Hills, and what greets you at the top feels less like checking in and more like stepping into another era. Marble columns catch the light, high domed ceilings stretch overhead, and the frescoes on the walls carry traces of Mewar’s old stories. Across 327 rooms and suites, most mornings begin the same way, curtains open to reveal the hills rolling out in every direction, still and green.
Meals here have a way of turning into occasions. Bahaar, the Gastronomical Garden, gathers global flavours under open skies, while Daastaan leans into India’s own regional kitchens, the kind of food that takes time and shows it. For something quieter, Ivory Pool Garden keeps things easy with candlelight and good company by the water. When the night calls for one more round, Dahaad pours it, cocktails served the way a palace bar should.
This August, turn the long weekends into an easy getaway with the people who matter most. Just an hour away from Maharana Pratap Airport, Fateh Collection sits quietly in the Aravalli Hills, offering a mix of heritage, luxury,nature and experiences for every generation.
At Fateh Garh, couples can retreat to the intimate Honeymoon Suite with its private jacuzzi, while families and groups can settle into spacious double room suites and plunge pool suites overlooking the surrounding landscape. At Khas Mahal, the mood is quite luxury with private plunge pool suites and sweeping Aravalli views, perfect for slowing down together.
The days can be as relaxed or as adventurous as you like: visit the vintage automobiles museum- one of the best in the region or take a vintage car ride through the countryside, try a traditional cooking experience, soar over the Aravallis on a zip line, enjoy a leisurely high tea or private dining experience at the sky deck, discover the Marwari equestrian program, indulge in the famous Rajasthani Thali or simply spend an afternoon by the infinity pool. Because the best long weekends are less about ticking places off a list and more about having time to reconnect and slow down.
Make the most of the long weekends by stepping away from the everyday and spending unhurried time together. Whether it’s a family escape, a sibling getaway or a quiet break with someone special, Fateh Collection offers the space, experiences and setting to make a few days away feel truly memorable.
Mihir Garh
Jodhpur, Rajasthan
These experiences are designed to provide guests with a deeper connection to the local culture and environment, creating unforgettable memories.
Land at the newest Jodhpur airport and drive to Mihir Garh– A reason to slow down and spend time together, the Fort of the Sunsets amidst the golden landscape of Marwar. Here, time is best spent outdoors and together from a leisurely picnic by the lake to exploring rural Rajasthan on a village safari.
For a more immersive experience, guests can discover traditional Rajasthani crafts through an embroidery class, while evenings call for a memorable Shikar Dinner under the desert sky, with a bonfire, local flock entertainment and a traditional feast.
Whether it is a family gathering or simply a few days away with loved ones, Mihir Garh offers a chance to step away from the everyday and make the long weekends about good food, shared experiences and unhurried time together.
These experiences are designed to provide guests with a deeper connection to the local culture and environment, creating unforgettable memories.
KINWANI HOUSE, ARAIYA ANTHOLOGY
For those looking to escape the rush of the city this August long weekend, Kinwani House offers a refreshing alternative to the usual hill station getaway.
This beautifully restored six-suite Art Deco residence sits high above Rishikesh, overlooking the Ganges and the Himalayan foothills, creating an atmosphere of complete calm. With personalised hospitality and the intimacy of a private home, it’s the kind of place where days unfold at your own pace, whether that’s over leisurely breakfasts on the terrace, long conversations with loved ones or quiet evenings watching the valley come alive. The property encourages guests to disconnect from busy schedules and embrace a slower, more mindful way of travelling.
Beyond the property, Rishikesh offers plenty to explore. Guests can experience the iconic Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat, wander through the Beatles Ashram, browse local boutiques and cafés, or choose from activities like white-water rafting, riverside walks and yoga experiences. Those seeking wellness can indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments before returning to Kinwani’s peaceful surroundings.
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family holiday or a weekend with close friends, Kinwani House effortlessly combines adventure, culture and relaxation in one unforgettable escape.
Few places are as beautiful during the monsoon as Palampur. The tea estates turn a brilliant green, waterfalls spring to life, and the Dhauladhar mountains emerge dramatically through drifting clouds. Nestled within this spectacular setting, Araiya Palampur offers a luxurious base for travellers looking to experience Himachal beyond its more crowded destinations.
The property blends contemporary comfort with the warmth and charm of Kangra Valley, inviting guests to immerse themselves in both the region’s natural beauty and local culture. The crisp mountain air and lush surroundings make every moment feel refreshing.
Guests can experience the destination through guided village walks, scenic hikes, jeep safaris, riverside picnics and visits to nearby tea gardens that have shaped Palampur’s identity for generations. The property also offers beautiful outdoor spaces where guests can simply relax and soak in uninterrupted views of the mountains after a day of exploration. Evenings are best spent enjoying locally inspired cuisine during terrace dinners while watching clouds roll across the
valley.
Whether you’re looking for adventure, cultural immersion or simply a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature, Araiya Palampur offers the perfect balance of activity and relaxation.
While Gir’s famous lion safaris pause during the monsoon, August reveals an entirely different side of the region that’s often overlooked. The forests and surrounding countryside are at their greenest, the weather is pleasantly cool, and the quieter season allows travellers to experience the destination without the usual crowds.
Araiya Gir’s luxurious villas, complete with spacious outdoor areas and private plunge pools in select accommodations, make it easy to settle into the slower rhythm of the landscape. It’s an ideal destination for those looking to reconnect with nature while enjoying the comforts of a Luxury retreat.
The experience here goes far beyond wildlife. Guests can visit nearby villages to learn about the indigenous pastoral communities that have coexisted with the Gir forest for generations, explore the historic Somnath Temple, enjoy scenic countryside drives or discover local markets and handicrafts.
Back at the resort, leisurely meals featuring regional Gujarati cuisine, evenings by the pool and uninterrupted views of the lush surroundings make for the perfect long weekend. The monsoon lends the landscape a unique charm, making it an excellent time to experience Gir from a completely different perspective.
AALIA JUNGLE RETREAT, ARAIYA ANTHOLOGY
Set on the edge of Rajaji National Park, Aalia Jungle Retreat & Spa is a destination for travellers who enjoy experiencing nature at a slower, more immersive pace. The monsoon breathes new life into the forest, transforming it into a lush green sanctuary filled with birdsong, vibrant flora and refreshing mountain air.
Staying in elegant colonial-style tents surrounded by nature creates a unique experience that feels both adventurous and indulgent. Away from crowded tourist destinations, the retreat offers an opportunity to reconnect with the outdoors while enjoying luxurious comforts. The retreat is especially known for its guided birdwalking experiences and nature trails, where guests can discover Rajaji’s remarkable birdlife and smaller wonders of the forest alongside experienced
naturalists.
Wellness remains equally central to the experience, with spa therapies, yoga sessions and peaceful spaces designed for complete relaxation. Guests can also head out to nearby Haridwar and Rishikesh for a cultural excursion before returning to the tranquillity of the retreat.
Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher, a wildlife enthusiast or simply someone looking to spend a long weekend surrounded by untouched nature, Aalia offers an experience that’s equal parts restorative, enriching and unforgettable.
Set on the edge of Rajaji National Park, Aalia Jungle Retreat & Spa is a destination for travellers who enjoy experiencing nature at a slower, more immersive pace. The monsoon breathes new life into the forest, transforming it into a lush green sanctuary filled with birdsong, vibrant flora and refreshing mountain air.
Staying in elegant colonial-style tents surrounded by nature creates a unique experience that feels both adventurous and indulgent. Away from crowded tourist destinations, the retreat offers an opportunity to reconnect with the outdoors while enjoying luxurious comforts. The retreat is especially known for its guided birdwalking experiences and nature trails, where guests can discover Rajaji’s remarkable birdlife and smaller wonders of the forest alongside experienced
naturalists.
Scenic drives through Kumaon’s charming villages, leisurely forest walks and picnics amidst nature make every day feel unhurried. Back at the property, guests can enjoy quiet afternoons with a book, soak in panoramic valley views or simply savour the stillness that defines the experience. Whether it’s a wellness-focused holiday, a romantic getaway or quality time with family, Amaraya offers a deeply restorative mountain escape.
Surrounded by pine forests and overlooking the rolling Kumaon hills, Amaraya is the kind of mountain retreat that encourages guests to slow down from the moment they arrive. With just eleven thoughtfully designed rooms, the boutique property offers an intimate setting where wellness, nature and personalised hospitality come together effortlessly.
The cool mountain air, mist-covered landscapes and peaceful surroundings make it an ideal escape for the August long weekends, offering a welcome break from the heat and pace of city life. Every corner of the property has been designed to celebrate the serenity of the mountains, making it easy to switch off and recharge.Guests can begin their mornings with yoga overlooking the hills before setting out to explore Nainital’s lakes, cafés and bustling local markets.
Scenic drives through Kumaon’s charming villages, leisurely forest walks and picnics amidst nature make every day feel unhurried. Back at the property, guests can enjoy quiet afternoons with a book, soak in panoramic valley views or simply savour the stillness that defines the experience. Whether it’s a wellness-focused holiday, a romantic getaway or quality time with family, Amaraya offers a deeply restorative mountain escape.
AMARAYA BY ARAIYA ANTHOLOGY
Surrounded by pine forests and overlooking the rolling Kumaon hills, Amaraya is the kind of mountain retreat that encourages guests to slow down from the moment they arrive. With just eleven thoughtfully designed rooms, the boutique property offers an intimate setting where wellness, nature and personalised hospitality come together effortlessly.
The cool mountain air, mist-covered landscapes and peaceful surroundings make it an ideal escape for the August long weekends, offering a welcome break from the heat and pace of city life. Every corner of the property has been designed to celebrate the serenity of the mountains, making it easy to switch off and recharge.Guests can begin their mornings with yoga overlooking the hills before setting out to explore Nainital’s lakes, cafés and bustling local markets.
Scenic drives through Kumaon’s charming villages, leisurely forest walks and picnics amidst nature make every day feel unhurried. Back at the property, guests can enjoy quiet afternoons with a book, soak in panoramic valley views or simply savour the stillness that defines the experience. Whether it’s a wellness-focused holiday, a romantic getaway or quality time with family, Amaraya offers a deeply restorative mountain escape
