Long weekends are a rare treat amid our busy lives. They allow us to step away from our routines, explore new destinations, and create lasting memories with our loved ones. March 2024 is bringing us one such golden opportunity with a long weekend spanning from Saturday, 23rd March to Sunday, 31st March. This extended break includes the colorful festival of Holi, making it an ideal time to plan a getaway. With a little planning and creativity, you can make the most of this long weekend and embark on a memorable adventure. Read on to know more!
In March 2024, a series of fortunate dates align to create an extended weekend getaway opportunity that’s too good to miss! Starting on Saturday, the 23rd of March, and stretching to Sunday, the 31st, this long break includes the vibrant festival of Holi on Monday, the 25th. To maximize your time off, consider taking leave on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, the 26th, 27th, and 28th, respectively. Finish off your extended break with Good Friday on the 29th, followed by Saturday, the 30th, and Sunday, the 31st, providing ample time for a rejuvenating getaway. This strategic move gives you nine consecutive days to relax, explore, and enjoy.
Making The Most of This Long Weekend
The key to making the most of a long weekend is to plan. Start by deciding on the type of experience you want – whether it’s a relaxing beach vacation, a cultural exploration, or an adventurous getaway. Once you have a clear idea, start researching destinations that fit your interests and budget. Consider factors such as travel time, weather, and local attractions when making your decision.
Places to Visit
1) Mathura and Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh
March is a special time to visit the twin cities of Mathura and Vrindavan, especially for the celebration of Holi, the festival of colors. This time of year, the towns are beautifully decorated, and the streets are filled with an electrifying atmosphere of festivity. The celebration is not just a visual delight with its colorful processions, but also a cultural immersion into the heart of Hindu traditions. One of the highlights is the Lathmar Holi festival, where women playfully “beat” men with sticks in a playful reenactment of Lord Krishna’s teasing of the Gopis. The temples are decorated, and the air is filled with the aroma of delicious sweets, creating a sensory experience unlike any other.
2) Udaipur, Rajasthan
March brings pleasant weather to Udaipur, making it an ideal time to explore the city’s outdoor attractions. The majestic City Palace, overlooking the shimmering Lake Pichola, offers a glimpse into the royal heritage of Rajasthan. The Gangaur festival, celebrated with great fervor in Udaipur, adds an extra layer of cultural richness to your visit. This festival, dedicated to Goddess Parvati, is a vibrant celebration of marriage and spring, featuring colorful processions, traditional music, and dance performances. The city comes alive with a riot of colors, showcasing the best of Rajasthani culture and hospitality.
3) Goa
March marks the end of the tourist season in Goa, making it an excellent time to visit before the crowds thin out. The weather is warm and pleasant, perfect for enjoying the beautiful beaches and water activities. One of the highlights of March in Goa is the Shigmo festival, which coincides with Holi and is celebrated with great pomp and show. This festival showcases Goa’s rich cultural heritage through colorful parades, traditional dances like the Ghode Modni and Fugdi, and folk music performances. It’s a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Goan culture and witness the vibrant traditions of the state.
4) Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
March marks the beginning of the tourist season in Rishikesh, as the weather becomes mild and pleasant. It’s an ideal time to explore the spiritual side of the city, known as the Yoga Capital of the World. You can attend yoga classes and meditation sessions, rejuvenate with Ayurvedic treatments, and indulge in adventure sports like river rafting and trekking. The International Yoga Festival, held in March, attracts yogis from around the world, offering a unique opportunity to learn from renowned yoga masters and immerse yourself in the ancient practice of yoga.
5) Kerala Backwaters
March is a great time to experience the tranquil backwaters of Kerala. The weather is mild, and the backwaters are less crowded, offering a peaceful and relaxing experience. You can enjoy a leisurely houseboat cruise along the backwaters, surrounded by lush greenery and serene waters. The annual Aranmula Boat Race, held during the Onam festival is a major attraction. This traditional boat race, featuring ornately decorated snake boats, is a thrilling spectacle that showcases Kerala’s rich maritime heritage and communal spirit.
6) Leh-Ladakh, Jammu, and Kashmir
March marks the beginning of the tourist season in Leh-Ladakh, as the snow starts to melt and the roads become more accessible. It’s a great time to explore the stunning landscapes of the region, including the breathtaking Pangong Lake and Nubra Valley. You can indulge in adventure activities like trekking, camping, and wildlife spotting, or simply soak in the stunning natural beauty of the Himalayas. The region is also known for its vibrant culture and hospitality, offering a unique blend of adventure and cultural immersion.
7) Andaman and Nicobar Islands
March is an ideal time to visit the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, as the weather is pleasant and perfect for water activities like snorkelling, scuba diving, and swimming. The islands are less crowded, offering a peaceful and relaxing holiday experience. You can explore the stunning coral reefs, pristine beaches, and lush tropical forests, and discover the rich marine life of the region. The islands also have a rich history, with remnants of colonial-era architecture and World War II-era bunkers, adding to the charm of the islands.
8) Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
March is a festive month in Varanasi, as the city celebrates the arrival of spring and the festival of colors, Holi. The Ganga Mahotsav, a five-day cultural festival held along the ghats of the Ganges River, is a major highlight. The festival features traditional music and dance performances, art exhibitions, and boat races, offering a unique cultural experience. You can also witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony, where priests offer prayers to the river with lamps and incense, creating a spiritual and mystical atmosphere.
9) Kolkata, West Bengal
March is an exciting time to visit Kolkata, as the city celebrates the festival of colors, Holi, with great enthusiasm. The streets come alive with vibrant colors, music, and dance, creating a festive atmosphere. You can also explore the rich cultural heritage of the city through its iconic landmarks like the Victoria Memorial and Howrah Bridge, and indulge in the delicious Bengali cuisine.
10) Mysore, Karnataka
March is a pleasant time to visit Mysore, as the weather is neither too hot nor too cold. You can explore the majestic Mysore Palace, with its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. Mysore is famous for its Dasara festival, a 10-day celebration featuring cultural performances, exhibitions, and a grand procession.
11) Shillong, Meghalaya
March is a great time to visit Shillong, as the weather is mild and perfect for exploring the city’s natural beauty. You can visit the picturesque waterfalls, lakes, and gardens, and immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions. March also marks the beginning of the Shad Suk Mynsiem festival, a traditional Khasi festival celebrating spring and harvest. The festival features cultural performances, traditional rituals, and a grand procession, offering a unique insight into the local culture and traditions.
The long weekends in March 2024 present a perfect opportunity to escape the daily grind and embark on a memorable adventure. Elevate your getaway by booking your stay with Brevistay, which offers comfortable and convenient accommodation options with hourly stays. Brevistay operates in over 100 cities across India, with 10,000+ rooms in 4000+ hotels. With flexible check-ins, 24×7 customer support, and a range of choices, Brevistay ensures your holiday is hassle-free and unforgettable. So, pack your bags, plan your itinerary, and get ready for an extraordinary holiday experience this March.
