Sep 28: With 2 October falling on a Friday, the three-day weekend arrives as an invitation to leave the city behind; even if only briefly. A few hours on the road can take you to the pine-scented hills of Kasauli and Nainital, the forests of Corbett, or the quieter banks of the Ganges in Haridwar and Rishikesh. With cooler mornings and clearer skies, October makes these short escapes all the more inviting.

The best getaways are often the ones that do not demand a packed itinerary. Think heritage havelis by the Ganges, hillside retreats, former royal residences overlooking Naini Lake and forest stays where the landscape takes centre stage. This long weekend, leave the city behind for good food, beautiful surroundings and a little more time to simply slow down.

Taj Corbett Resort & Spa, Jim Corbett

Set against the untamed beauty of Corbett and nestled along the banks of the Kosi River, Taj Corbett Resort & Spa brings a sense of warmth and togetherness to Raksha Bandhan. Families can turn the occasion into a memorable sibling escape with leisurely nature walks, scenic mountain drives and birding trails, discovering the region’s beauty together at an unhurried pace. Seasonal Kumaoni flavours, rejuvenating aromatic therapies at J Wellness Circle, moments by the river and evenings filled with local folk music come together to create a celebration that feels deeply connected to the landscape, culture and spirit of the region.

Pilibhit House, Haridwar - IHCL SeleQtions

Nestled along the sacred Ganges, Pilibhit House - IHCL SeleQtions is a beautifully restored century-old aristocratic mansion that brings together heritage, spirituality and contemporary luxury. Its 35 rooms and suites are arranged around a traditional courtyard, with select rooms offering views of the Ganges and Shivalik Hills, while handcrafted details and regal architecture reflect the character of a classic Indian haveli. Guests can experience Haridwar through sunrise yoga, a private- ghat Ganga Aarti, J Wellness Circle therapies and curated experiences including heritage walks, spiritual trails and forest excursions. At The Dining Room and The Terrace, vegetarian and Satvik cuisine celebrates seasonal ingredients and regional flavours, while Tea Tales by The Ganges offers riverside high tea. Together, these experiences offer a serene and immersive way to discover Haridwar.

Hari Ganga Niwas, Haridwar - IHCL SeleQtions

Located within walking distance from Har Ki Pauri, Hari Ganga Niwas offers a more intimate and immersive way to experience Haridwar during the monsoon. The century-old haveli blends heritage architecture with contemporary comfort through Ganga-facing rooms, tranquil courtyards, a private bathing ghat and thoughtfully designed spaces shaped by the rhythm of the rain-fed river. Experiences here are deeply rooted in ritual and reflection, from witnessing the evening Ganga Aarti at the private ghat to participating in sacred ceremonies and quiet moments by the water. Mornings begin with yoga overlooking the Ganges, while seasonal satvik cuisine crafted with local ingredients brings warmth and balance.

Aloha on the Ganges, Rishikesh

Overlooking the sacred Ganges, Aloha on the Ganges in Rishikesh unfolds at an unhurried pace, with the river providing a serene setting for families to reconnect. Guests are welcomed with refreshing regional beverages before slow mornings. Seasonal Uttarakhand favourites such as Patyur bring local culinary traditions to the table, while yoga, spa therapies and evening flute performances create moments of calm and togetherness throughout the stay.

The Naini Retreat, Nainital

Amid the gentle charm of the Naini Lake, The Naini Retreat sets the scene for a warm celebration rooted in togetherness. Guests can begin their day with sun-dried Buransh herbal tea and leisurely breakfasts overlooking the lake, before coming together over an evening Kumaoni High Tea featuring Amritpur ke Bhutte, Rokhar ki Kakdi with sil-batta namak and Pahadi Pakodi. Stories of Nainital's history and the palace's royal legacy add character to the gathering, while enjoying Aipan Art workshop, stone painting and classic board games offer relaxed ways for families to spend time together. Authentic Kumaoni meals complete the experience with the flavours of the region.

Van Rāsa, Kasauli

Tucked away amid the lush forests of Kasauli, Van Rāsa is a newly opened 16-key luxury boutique retreat offering an intimate escape into the Himalayas. Inspired by the essence of the forest, the property brings together understated European-inspired design, private terraces and select rooms with heated plunge pools, framed by sweeping mountain views. Guests can unwind at Neer, the wellness sanctuary featuring an indoor heated pool, jacuzzi and spa therapies, or enjoy leisurely meals at Syāhi, the glass-walled restaurant serving Indian and international cuisine. Nature walks, curated picnics, traditional Himachali Dham and evenings around the bonfire complete the experience, making Van Rāsa an idyllic setting for a long weekend centred on nature, wellness and the luxury of slowing down.