October Long Weekend Guide: Celebrate Dussehra And Gandhi Jayanti With These Perfect Getaways | Travel News

Thoughtfully designed stays across India promise more than just comfort, they invite you to celebrate tradition, reset your rhythm, and create memories that linger long after. (In frame: Villa Nora, Salvador do Mundo)

The upcoming October 2–5 long weekend, marked by Gandhi Jayanti and Dussehra, is the perfect time to take a pause and travel. With four days at hand, it’s an opportunity to trade city chaos for slow mornings, cultural richness, and rejuvenating escapes. Whether you’re dreaming of a private villa in Goa, a forest wellness retreat in the Himalayas, or royal indulgence in Rajasthan, this long weekend offers the ideal canvas for rest and discovery. Thoughtfully designed stays across India promise more than just comfort, they invite you to celebrate tradition, reset your rhythm, and create memories that linger long after.

Villas by Noor, Goa – Slow Living by Design

Design-led villas. Slow moments. Sunlit serenity. If you’ve been dreaming of a quieter Goa, lush greenery, slow mornings, and homes crafted with soul, Villas by Noor is the perfect long-weekend getaway.

Villa Nora, Salvador do Mundo: Designed by Ritu Nanda, this 4-bedroom villa offers antique charm, breezy verandahs, and a private pool. Perfect for design lovers and creators.

The Aldona Collection (Nea, Anjor, Lumi & Asna): Tucked in Goa’s most serene village, these villas pair leafy verandahs with heritage accents, ideal for families and long-stay travellers.

Highlights: Private pools, heritage-inspired design, chef-on-call, soulful food options.

Shangri-La Singapore – Tropical Serenity in the City

Shangri-La Singapore is a luxurious five-star hotel and the first property of the Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts Group. It is located in a tranquil, tropical setting near Orchard Road and is known for its beautiful gardens and excellent service.

Stay: Classic suites and rooms overlooking gardens, tranquil poolside lounging.

Experiences: Enjoy curated wellness mornings, in-room spa treatments, or afternoon teas in the verdant lobby.

Family Fun: Little ones delight in a supervised kids club and themed play areas.

Highlights: Award-winning service, legendary gardens, central location.

Shangri-la Rasa Sentosa, Beachfront Luxury on Sentosa Island

Shangri-La Rasa Sentosa is a beachfront luxury resort on Singapore’s Sentosa Island, offering a tropical paradise with family-friendly amenities, including two outdoor pools, a dedicated kids’ club, and activities like water sports and beachfront dining.

Stay: Contemporary rooms with private balconies offering sea or garden views.

Wellness & Leisure: Rejuvenating spa called Chi, The Spa.

Highlights: Family amenities, beachfront access, diverse dining options.

Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur: Elegant City-Centre Luxury

Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur is a luxurious 5-star city-center hotel known for its elegant ambiance, diverse dining, and family-friendly amenities including pools and a kids’ activity program. The hotel features a serene Zen garden, a well-equipped gym with views, a spa offering various treatments, and the Horizon Club lounge for executive guests.

Stay: Elegant rooms and suites including Horizon Club access.

Experiences: Diverse dining, spa therapies, fitness with scenic views.

Family-Friendly: Kids’ activity programs, swimming pools.

Shangri-La Bangkok- Riverside Luxury on the Chao Phraya

Shangri-La Bangkok is a renowned 5-star luxury hotel located on the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok. It offers opulent accommodations, exceptional dining, world-class facilities including award-winning spas, expansive fitness centers, and two distinct swimming pools within its Shangri-La and Krungthep wings.

Stay: Luxury rooms and suites with river views.

Wellness & Leisure: Spas, fitness centers, dual pools.

Highlights: Riverside location, gourmet dining, luxurious amenities.

Shangri-La Chiang Mai- Luxury in Northern Thailand

Shangri-La Chiang Mai is a 5-star luxury hotel in the heart of Chiang Mai, Thailand, known for its exceptional service, lush surroundings, and facilities including a large outdoor pool, an award-winning spa with private villas, multiple dining options, and spacious European-style rooms with northern Thai touches. Situated near the Night Bazaar, it offers a blend of city convenience with a serene resort feel, featuring an executive Horizon Club lounge and a well-equipped fitness center.

Stay: Spacious rooms with northern Thai design elements.

Experiences: Award-winning spa, multiple dining venues, fitness amenities.

Highlights: Blend of city access and resort relaxation.

The Oberoi Sukhvilas Spa Resort, New Chandigarh – Wellness in the Forest

At the foothills of the Himalayas and surrounded by 8,000 acres of protected Siswan forest, this resort blends Ayurvedic wellness with Oberoi luxury.

Stay: Villas, luxury tents with private pools, or spacious forest-view rooms.

Wellness: Forest bathing, Turkish hammam, Ayurvedic therapies, yoga.

Adventure: Mountain biking, ATV rides, e-cycling.

Highlights: TIME Magazine’s “World’s Greatest Places,” spa rituals, forest immersion.

The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur – Royal by the Lake

Overlooking Lake Pichola, this property is an architectural masterpiece with domes, corridors, and lush gardens that echo Udaipur’s regal past.

Stay: Suites and premier rooms with semi-private pools or lake views.

Experiences: Lakeside pavilion dinners, cooking with chefs, traditional folk performances.

For Families: Children’s activities from block printing to puppet shows.

Highlights: Regal dining, cultural immersions, royal architecture.

The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra – Elegance by the Taj

Just 600 metres from the Taj Mahal, Amarvilas is unmatched for romance and Mughal-inspired grandeur.

Stay: Rooms and suites with uninterrupted Taj views.

Dining: Candlelight dinners, curated brunches, Mughal-inspired terraces.

Ambience: Mughal gardens, fountains, and timeless Oberoi hospitality.

Highlights: Taj Mahal views, romantic dining, luxury with history.

The Oberoi Rajvilas, Jaipur – A Majestic Retreat

Spread over 32 acres of landscaped gardens, Rajvilas captures Rajasthan’s royal spirit with flaming mashaal torches and reflection pools.

Stay: Luxury tents and villas inspired by Maharajas.

Experiences: Private yoga, royal Rajasthani dining, artisan-led crafts like lac bangle making.

For Food Lovers: Cook with Oberoi chefs to unravel Indian flavours.

Highlights: Authentic cultural experiences, wellness rituals, royal escape.

InterContinental Jaipur Tonk Road – Comfort, Style & Great Food

Perfect for a quick yet indulgent getaway, InterContinental Jaipur Tonk Road is just 15 minutes from the airport and close to Jaipur’s iconic attractions. Spacious rooms, a calming spa, and an outdoor pool make it a serene retreat for families, couples, or friends. Guests can dine at Socorro, enjoying a blend of local and international flavours, while the hotel’s stylish interiors, attentive service, and thoughtful amenities ensure a festive break filled with comfort and charm. Jaipur’s vibrant culture and royal spirit are just a short drive away, making this property ideal for those who want both relaxation and exploration.

Stay: Spacious rooms with modern comforts

Dining: Socorro – local and international cuisine

Wellness & Leisure: Spa, outdoor pool, tranquil lounges

Highlights: Stylish interiors, festive retreat, ideal for families and couples

Udaipur Marriott Hotel – A Regal Getaway

This Dussehra long weekend, Udaipur Marriott Hotel offers a regal escape set against the Aravalli Hills and overlooking serene Fateh Sagar Lake. Elegant rooms and suites, indulgent dining, and a wellness-focused environment create the perfect festive getaway. Guests can spend tranquil mornings by the lake, enjoy spa therapies, or partake in curated culinary experiences showcasing local and international flavours. The hotel combines heritage charm with contemporary luxury, making it ideal for families, couples, or solo travellers seeking a memorable long-weekend retreat.

Stay: Elegant rooms and suites with Aravalli or lake views

Dining: On-site restaurants with curated menus

Wellness & Leisure: Spa treatments, serene surroundings

Highlights: Heritage-inspired luxury, indulgent dining, festive escape

voco Jim Corbett – Nature-Inspired Retreat

For those seeking a peaceful break in nature, voco Jim Corbett is a sanctuary nestled amidst lush greenery near Corbett National Park. Contemporary design meets immersive natural experiences, allowing guests to explore wildlife trails, relax under starlit skies, and reconnect with nature. The resort’s warm hospitality ensures a rejuvenating festive escape for families, couples, or solo travellers looking to unwind and recharge.

Stay: Contemporary rooms and suites with forest views

Experiences: Wildlife trails, stargazing, nature walks

Wellness & Leisure: Relaxing lounges and scenic surroundings

Highlights: Nature immersion, adventure opportunities, warm hospitality

Crowne Plaza Kochi – A Serene Waterfront Getaway

If you’d rather head south, Crowne Plaza Kochi offers a tranquil escape by Kerala’s scenic backwaters. Spacious rooms overlooking the water, a rejuvenating spa, and multiple dining options serving authentic Kerala and international cuisines make it perfect for a leisurely festive weekend. Guests can enjoy houseboat rides, explore local culture, or simply relax by the pool while soaking in God’s Own Country.

Stay: Rooms with backwater or garden views

Dining: Multi-cuisine options with Kerala specialities

Wellness & Leisure: Spa, pool, cultural excursions

Highlights: Waterfront serenity, immersive local experiences, festive relaxation

Jim Corbett Marriott Resort & Spa – Adventure and Wellness

Set between the Malani Hills and the calm Kosi River, Jim Corbett Marriott Resort & Spa is ideal for a mindful long-weekend retreat. Guests can indulge in Ayurvedic therapies at Quan Spa, savour Kumaoni flavours at The Corbett Kitchen, or enjoy fireside dining at Malani Grill. For adventure enthusiasts, sunrise safaris and village trails provide unforgettable experiences, while the serene surroundings ensure rejuvenation for all.

Stay: Villas and rooms with forest or river views

Dining: The Corbett Kitchen, Malani Grill, Sal Bar

Wellness & Leisure: Ayurvedic spa therapies, guided safaris, village trails

Highlights: Adventure meets luxury, wellness immersion, scenic escapes

Where will you go this long weekend? Whether it’s the sunlit serenity of Goa, the quiet strength of Himalayan forests, or the timeless elegance of royal retreats, these properties promise not just a stay but a story.