Destination Dupes for the Independence Day Weekend: Offbeat Escapes for Last-Minute Travel

With popular holiday spots such as Goa, Udaipur, Alibaug, Karjat, Igatpuri, Lonavala, Jaipur, Mahabaleshwar, Varanasi, Coorg, Ooty, Leh and Spiti already crowded ahead of the Independence Day weekend, travel experts are suggesting lesser-known yet equally scenic alternatives for budget-friendly, last-minute trips.

In Karnataka, Gokarna offers a peaceful alternative to Goa with serene beaches, seafood, and monsoon treks to Mirjan Fort and Vibhooti Falls. Flights to Bengaluru cost around ₹5,000, followed by train or bus travel for ₹1,200–₹2,000.

Varkala in Kerala charms visitors with golden beaches and cliffside views over the Arabian Sea. Flights to Thiruvananthapuram cost ₹7,000–₹8,000, with local homestays starting at ₹2,000 per night.

Closer to Mumbai and Pune, Kamshet is a quieter option compared to crowded hill stations, known for paragliding, Pawna Lake, and Bedse Caves. Accommodation ranges from ₹1,800 to ₹4,500 per night.

For wildlife enthusiasts, Jawai in Rajasthan offers leopard sightings amid rocky landscapes and riversides. Guests can enjoy local delicacies like Ker Sangri and Laal Maas. Lodges range between ₹2,000 and ₹10,000 per night.

In Himachal Pradesh, Solan presents a calm alternative to Shimla, featuring temples such as Jatoli, Menri Monastery, and Dharon ki Dhar Fort. Travel from Delhi via Kalka costs ₹2,000–₹3,000, with stays between ₹1,500 and ₹3,000 per night. These offbeat destinations promise a blend of scenic beauty, cultural richness, and fewer crowds—making them perfect for spontaneous travellers this long weekend.