India

Upcoming Long Weekends 2025 (India) + Top Family Holiday Ideas

Indian parents, take note!

The 2025 calendar is brimming with opportunities for long weekends and extended holidays—perfect for planning family getaways.

With strategic leave planning, you can maximize your days off and create memorable experiences with your kids.

From fun-filled adventures to educational escapes, here’s a guide to making the most of 2025 and our top recommendations for family-friendly trips.

Public Holidays in India for 2025 (As published by the Central Government)

Gazetted Holidays 2025 + Holiday Hacks to get more days off

DateDayHolidayLong Weekend?
26 Jan 2025SundayRepublic DayYes if your company gives off-in-lieu on Monday.
26 Feb 2025Wednesday
Maha Shivaratri
No
14 March 2025FirdayHoliYes
31 March 2025MondayId-ul-FitrYes
10 April 2025ThursdayMahavir Jayanti No, but you can take Friday off to get four days’ leave.
18 April 2025FridayGood FridayYes
12 May 2025MondayBuddha PurnimaYes
7 June 2025SaturdayId-ul-Zuha (Bakrid)Yes if your company gives off-in-lieu on Friday or Monday.
6 July 2025SundayMuharramYes if your company gives off-in-lieu on Monday.
15 August 2025Friday
Independence day
Yes
5 September 2025FridayMilad-un-Nabi or Id-e-MiladYes
2 October 2025ThursdayMahatma Gandhi’s Birthday / DussehraYes if you have previous days of Dussehra off, or you can take Friday off to get four days’ leave.
20 October 2025MondayDiwali (Deepawali) Yes
5 November 2025WednesdayGuru Nanak’s BirthdayNo
25 DecemberThursdayChristmas Day No, but you can take Friday off to get four days’ leave.

Restricted Holidays 2025 + Holiday Hacks to get more days off

DateDayHolidayLong Weekend?
1 Jan 2025WednesdayNew Year’s DayNo
6 Jan 2025MondayGuru Gobind Singh’s BirthdayYes
14 Jan 2025TuesdayMakar Sankranti/ Magha Bihu/ Pongal/ Hazarat Ali’s BirthdayNo, but you can take Monday off to get four days’ leave.
2 Feb 2025Sunday
Basant Panchami / Sri Panchami
Yes if your company gives off-in-lieu on Monday.
12 Feb 2025WednesdayGuru Ravidas’s BirthdayNo
19 Feb 2025WednesdayShivaji JayantiNo
23 Feb 2025SundaySwami Dayananda Saraswati JayantiYes if your company gives off-in-lieu on Monday.
13 March 2025ThursdayHolika DahanYes as the next day, Friday is a holiday as well.
14 March 2025Friday DolyatraYes
28 March 2025FridayJamat-Ul-Vida Yes
30 March 2025SundayChaitra Sukladi/ Gudi Padava/ Ugadi/ Cheti ChandYes if your company gives off-in-lieu on Monday.
6 April 2025SundayRam Navami Yes if your company gives off-in-lieu on Monday.
13 April 2025SundayVaisakhi/ VishuYes if your company gives off-in-lieu on Monday.
14 April 2025MondayMeshadi (Tamil New Year’s Day)Yes
15 April 2025TuesdayVaisakhadi (Bengal)/ Bahag Bihu (Assam)No, but you can take Monday off to get four days’ leave.
20 April 2025SundayEaster SundayYes if your company gives off-in-lieu on Monday.
9 May 2025Friday
Guru Rabindranath’s Birthday
Yes
27 June 2025FridayRath Yatra Yes
9 August 2025SaturdayRaksha BandhanYes if your company gives off-in-lieu on Friday or Monday.
15 August 2025FridayParsi New Year’s day/ Nauraj/ JanmashtamiYes
16 August 2025SaturdayJanmashtamiYes
26 August 2025WednesdayGanesh Chaturthi / Vinayaka ChaturthiNo
5 September 2025FridayOnam or Thiru Onam DayYes
29 September 2025MondayDussehra (Maha Saptami)Yes
30 September 2025TuesdayDussehra (Maha Ashtami)Yes, if Monday is also a holiday.
1 October 2025WednesdayDussehra (Maha Navmi)Yes, if Monday and Tueday is a holiday.
7 October 2025TuesdayMaharishi Valmiki’s BirthdayNo, but you can take Monday off to get four days’ leave.
10 October 2025FridayKaraka Chaturthi (Karva Chauth)Yes
20 October 2025MondayNaraka Chaturdasi Yes
22 October 2025WednesdayGovardhan PujaNo
23 October 2025ThursdayBhai DujNo, but you can take Friday off to get four days’ leave.
28 October 2025TuesdayPratihar Sashthi or Surya Sashthi (Chhat Puja)No, but you can take Monday off to get four days’ leave.
24 November 2025MondayGuru Teg Bahadur’s Martyrdom DayYes
24 December 2025WednesdayChristmas Eve No

Top Family Holiday Ideas for 2025 in India: Best Places to Travel Per Month

India is a treasure trove of incredible destinations perfect for family vacations. Whether you’re looking for snow-capped mountains, sunny beaches, lush forests, or cultural landmarks, there’s something for everyone, every month of the year. In 2025, why not explore India with a tailored itinerary that matches the season and region?

Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best family holiday destinations in North, South, East, West, and Central India, broken down by month.

January: Winter Retreats

January is a magical time to explore India’s winter destinations. Whether it’s snow-laden hills or warm coastal retreats, this month offers the perfect family getaway.

  • North India: Head to Auli to experience the charm of snowy landscapes. Auli is known as India’s skiing capital, with mesmerizing views of the Himalayas.
  • South India: For families seeking warmer weather, Munnar and Wayanad in Kerala are ideal. Munnar’s tea plantations and Eravikulam National Park are must-visits. Wayanad offers lush greenery and wildlife sightings, perfect for a relaxing vacation.
  • East India: Odisha’s Puri Beach and Chilika Lake make for a tranquil retreat. Witness dolphins at Chilika Lake and explore the iconic Jagannath Temple.
  • West India: Gir National Park (Gujarat) – Perfect for a wildlife safari amidst the forested beauty of Sasan Gir.
  • Central India: Explore Kanha National Park in Madhya Pradesh for an exhilarating wildlife safari. Spot majestic tigers and enjoy the park’s natural beauty.

February: Romantic Escapes and Festive Vibes

February, with its pleasant weather, is an ideal month to explore scenic and culturally vibrant destinations.

  • North: Take your family to Dalhousie and Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh. These towns offer a peaceful retreat amidst pine forests and stunning mountain views. Dharamshala’s Tibetan culture adds a unique touch to your trip.
  • South: Experience the backwaters of Alleppey on a houseboat or wander through Coorg’s aromatic coffee plantations. These destinations promise relaxation and breathtaking views.
  • East: Sikkim’s Yumthang Valley is a sight to behold in February. Known as the “Valley of Flowers,” it’s perfect for nature-loving families.
  • West: Jodhpur, Rajasthan – A vibrant city perfect for history buffs and cultural enthusiasts.
  • Central: Visit Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh’s only hill station. Its caves, waterfalls, and colonial charm make it an excellent family destination.

March: Spring Adventures

March marks the arrival of spring, making it a great time for family adventures.

  • North: Explore the wildlife and serene beauty of Jim Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand. Combine this with a visit to Nainital, where boating on Naini Lake and cable car rides delight visitors of all ages if you have the time.
  • South: Ooty and Coonoor, nestled in the Nilgiri Hills, are excellent choices. The Nilgiri Mountain Railway adds a nostalgic charm to your journey.
  • East: Kaziranga National Park in Assam is ideal for wildlife lovers. Spot the one-horned rhinoceros and vibrant bird species.
  • West: Ellora Caves and Aurangabad (Maharashtra) – Explore ancient rock-cut wonders and nearby attractions like Ajanta Caves.
  • Central: Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve is a thrilling destination for wildlife enthusiasts. It offers some of the best tiger-spotting opportunities in the country.

April: Blossoms and Nature Trails

April ushers in spring’s full bloom, making it an ideal time to explore India’s natural beauty and cultural landmarks.

  • North India: Experience the stunning Tulip Garden in Srinagar, which comes alive with thousands of tulips in full bloom, against the backdrop of the Zabarwan Mountains.
  • South India: Explore the historical and scenic charm of Mysore and Hampi. Mysore is famous for its royal palaces, while Hampi offers a fascinating landscape of ancient ruins and boulders, perfect for history buffs.
  • East India: Visit the lush tea gardens of Darjeeling in West Bengal. Enjoy panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga, ride the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, and sip on the region’s world-famous tea.
  • West India: Escape to the cool hill stations of Mahabaleshwar and Lonavala in Maharashtra. Strawberry farms in Mahabaleshwar and waterfalls in Lonavala are major attractions.
  • Central India: The Khajuraho temples in Madhya Pradesh are a blend of art, history, and culture. These intricately carved monuments are great for a family cultural trip.

May: Cool Escapes for Hot Summers

May is the peak of summer in India, making it the perfect time for hill station getaways and high-altitude adventures.

  • North India: Leh-Ladakh and Spiti Valley offer stunning landscapes, cool weather, and an adventurous vibe. Families can enjoy activities like river rafting on the Zanskar or visiting ancient monasteries.
  • South India: Retreat to the serene hill stations of Kodaikanal and Yercaud in Tamil Nadu. Kodaikanal’s scenic lake and Yercaud’s tranquil gardens offer a peaceful escape.
  • East India: Meghalaya’s living root bridges and waterfalls are perfect for nature lovers. Visit Cherrapunji or Mawlynnong, the cleanest village in Asia.
  • West India: Rajasthan’s Mount Abu is a great summer retreat with cool breezes, Nakki Lake, and stunning viewpoints like Sunset Point.
  • Central India: Amarkantak, a sacred hill station in Madhya Pradesh, is known for its dense forests, ancient temples, and the origin of the Narmada River.

June: Monsoon Magic Begins

June marks the start of the monsoon, transforming many parts of India into lush, green paradises. It’s a great time for families who enjoy rain-washed landscapes and vibrant waterfalls.

  • North India: Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, is perfect for a mix of spirituality and adventure. Go river rafting on the Ganges or attend a calming Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat.
  • South India: Wayanad in Kerala comes alive with cascading waterfalls, misty hills, and lush greenery. Families can enjoy trekking, wildlife spotting, and exploring ancient caves.
  • East India: Shillong and Cherrapunji in Meghalaya receive their first monsoon showers, making the waterfalls and rolling hills even more enchanting.
  • West India: Lonavala and Panchgani in Maharashtra offer stunning vistas, fresh mountain air, and seasonal waterfalls. Don’t miss out on the famous monsoon treks.
  • Central India: Satpura National Park in Madhya Pradesh offers a chance to experience the raw beauty of nature during the rainy season. Enjoy a serene boat safari and witness wildlife amidst the rain-kissed forests.

July: Monsoon Glory

July is all about soaking in the monsoon’s charm. It’s an off-season for many destinations, offering quieter escapes and discounted rates.

  • North India: The Valley of Flowers in Uttarakhand is in its peak bloom. Families can enjoy trekking amidst a riot of colors and scenic vistas.
  • South India: Kerala’s Kumarakom backwaters provide a serene experience during the monsoons. Opt for a houseboat stay to enjoy the scenic beauty and traditional Kerala cuisine.
  • East India: Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, offers misty mountains, Buddhist monasteries, and pristine lakes. It’s a great offbeat destination for adventurous families.
  • West India: Witness the majestic Dudhsagar Falls on the Goa-Karnataka border. The cascading waterfall surrounded by lush forests is a breathtaking sight.
  • Central India: Orchha, Madhya Pradesh, is perfect for exploring ancient forts, temples, and a peaceful riverside setting during the rains.

August: Independence and Festive Getaways

August, with its long weekends and festivals, is an excellent month to explore India with your family.

  • North India: Visit Amritsar in Punjab for a patriotic experience at the Wagah Border ceremony. Combine this with the spiritual serenity of the Golden Temple.
  • South India: Discover Mahabalipuram and Pondicherry. Mahabalipuram’s rock-cut temples and Pondicherry’s French charm offer a mix of history and leisure.
  • East India: Gangtok, Sikkim, offers a blend of natural beauty and Buddhist culture. Visit Tsomgo Lake and the Rumtek Monastery.
  • West India: Experience the lush green vineyards of Nashik, Maharashtra. Wine tours and family-friendly resorts make this a refreshing getaway.
  • Central India: Explore the ancient Bhimbetka rock shelters, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing prehistoric cave art.

September: Pre-Winter Calm

September is a transitional month with pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making it perfect for exploring quieter destinations.

  • North India: Kasauli, Himachal Pradesh – A quiet, offbeat hill station ideal for unwinding and exploring nature.
  • South India: Madikeri in Karnataka, known for its coffee estates and waterfalls, is a serene monsoon retreat. Thekkady in Kerala offers rich biodiversity and relaxing boat safaris on Periyar Lake.
  • East India: Sundarbans National Park, West Bengal, is perfect for wildlife spotting and boat safaris through mangrove forests.
  • West India: Rajasthan’s Udaipur captivates visitors with its romantic lakes and grand palaces. Families can enjoy cultural shows and boat rides on Lake Pichola.
  • Central India: Visit the stunning Chitrakoot waterfalls in Chhattisgarh, often called the Niagara Falls of India.

October: Festivities and Mild Weather

October marks the beginning of autumn and the festive season in India. The weather is mild and perfect for family outings.

  • North India: Celebrate Dev Deepawali in Varanasi, where the ghats light up with thousands of lamps. Witness the cultural richness through Ganga Aarti, boat rides, and temple visits.
  • South India: Explore the coastal beauty of Rameshwaram and Kanyakumari. These destinations are perfect for spiritual rejuvenation and offer breathtaking ocean views.
  • East India: Experience the grandeur of Durga Puja in Kolkata. Visit artistic pandals, enjoy delicious Bengali cuisine, and soak in the festive spirit.
  • West India: Head to Jaisalmer for desert safaris, camel rides, and cultural performances under the star-lit Thar Desert sky.
  • Central India: Discover the wilderness of Pench National Park, which inspired Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book. Spot tigers, leopards, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

November: Cozy Winter Starts

November is an ideal month for family vacations as the winter season begins, offering crisp weather and vibrant festivals.

  • North India: Visit the Rann of Kutch in Gujarat during its White Desert Festival. The vast salt flats glow under the moonlight, and cultural programs add to the charm.
  • South India: Explore Hyderabad, known for its rich history and cuisine. Visit iconic landmarks like Charminar, Golconda Fort, and Chowmahalla Palace.
  • East India: Head to Arunachal Pradesh’s Ziro Valley, a tranquil destination surrounded by pine forests and rice fields. It’s perfect for families seeking peace and scenic beauty.
  • West India: Attend the famous Pushkar Camel Fair in Rajasthan. Families can enjoy camel rides, cultural shows, and shopping in the bustling markets.
  • Central India: Orchha, Madhya Pradesh, offers a mix of history and natural beauty. Explore its medieval forts, temples, and riverfront views.

December: Festive and Holiday Cheer

December brings a festive spirit and cold weather, making it an excellent time for winter vacations and holiday celebrations.

  • North India: Enjoy a snowy holiday in Shimla and Manali. Engage in activities like snowball fights, skiing, and cozying up with hot cocoa by the fire.
  • South India: Celebrate Christmas in Kochi, Kerala, with festive lights, carol singing, and traditional feasts. Combine it with a backwater cruise for a unique experience.
  • East India: Visit Nagaland during the Hornbill Festival, which showcases the vibrant tribal culture through dances, crafts, and music.
  • West India: Embrace the lively vibe of Mumbai, which shines during the holiday season. Enjoy shopping, exploring marine drives, and visiting landmarks like Gateway of India.
  • Central India: Bhopal, known as the city of lakes, is a serene winter getaway. Enjoy boat rides on Upper Lake and visit the tribal museum for a cultural experience.

Conclusion: Make the Most of Long Weekends in 2025 with Your Kids

India offers an array of family-friendly destinations where both parents and kids can enjoy fun and educational experiences. Whether it’s birdwatching in Kutch, exploring temples in Jaipur, or trekking through the forests of Wayanad, there are countless opportunities to learn and grow while creating cherished family memories.

dhwani.swadia

Share
Published by
dhwani.swadia

Recent Posts

Unlock Your Child’s Genius with Chess: Cognitive Benefits & Teaching Guide

What goes on inside the brain of a chess player? How do they think multiple…

17 hours ago

Electromagnetic Spectrum Simplified: A Guide with Fun Experiments for All Ages

What is the Electromagnetic Spectrum?The Types of Waves in the Electromagnetic Spectrum1. Radio Waves2. Microwaves3.…

2 days ago

How to Convert From Cm to Inches: Hands-On, Creative Ways to Teach Kids

Imagine your child holding up their favorite action figure or stuffed animal and asking, “How…

3 days ago

The Civil War Explained: Causes, Battles, and Lasting Impact

The American Civil War (1861–1865) stands as one of the most transformative and tragic periods…

4 days ago

Pythagoras Theorem Simplified: Fun Facts, History, and Hands-On Learning for Kids

When we hear "Pythagoras Theorem," most of us get a flashback of our school days…

4 days ago

Making Jaffa Cakes with Kids: A Fun and Delicious Recipe

If you're looking for a fun and tasty baking project to do with your kids,…

5 days ago

This website uses cookies.