As the festive season draws closer, a long weekend offers the perfect opportunity to step away from the everyday routine and make space for some much-needed rejuvenation. From a leisurely city staycation to a serene mountain retreat, a riverside escape or a royal getaway steeped in heritage, a few days away can provide the reset needed to slow down, recharge and ease into the celebratory season ahead. Whether it is a change of scenery, time immersed in nature, a wellness-led retreat or an indulgent escape, these getaways bring together distinctive settings, thoughtful hospitality, immersive experiences and leisurely dining, offering the perfect pause to recharge before the festive calendar gathers pace. Naukuchia House, Naukuchiatal, IHCL SeleQtions – A Serene Lakeside Escape For those looking to trade the city skyline for crisp mountain air, Naukuchia House, Naukuchiatal – IHCL SeleQtions offers an inviting retreat in the Kumaon foothills. Overlooking the spring-fed waters of Naukuchiatal Lake, the property is surrounded by forested landscapes and the tranquil beauty of the Himalayas. The hotel comprises 40 rooms and two suites, with accommodations offering lake or garden views. The experience here is rooted in slowing down and reconnecting with the landscape. Days can unfold through leisurely outdoor experiences, quiet moments by the lake and explorations of the surrounding Kumaoni terrain. The property also offers a spa, outdoor swimming pool and fitness centre for those looking to build relaxation into their stay. The sense of place continues through its dining experiences. Ija brings an Indian culinary experience inspired by the Himalayas, while Himmaleh Lounge & Bar serves cocktails and finger food in a relaxed mountain setting. For a long weekend before the festive rush begins, Naukuchia House offers the opportunity to slow the pace, breathe in the mountain air and return to the city feeling genuinely refreshed. Corbett Hideaway, Jim Corbett – IHCL SeleQtions - A Riverside Retreat Into The Wild For those looking to venture further into nature, Corbett Hideaway, Jim Corbett – IHCL SeleQtions offers an immersive escape along the Kosi River. Set amidst forested surroundings, the property brings together riverside landscapes, open spaces and experiences designed around the destination. The retreat features 80 rooms, with large windows and private sit-outs opening towards the Kosi River, lawns or canopied gardens, allowing the surrounding landscape to become an integral part of the stay. The experience extends beyond the rooms through nature-led experiences and opportunities to explore the region, while the riverside setting creates plenty of space for slower mornings and unhurried afternoons. The property also features a pool and alfresco seating alongside the river. Dining adds another layer to the experience. Ija serves multi-cuisine, Indian and regional fare, while Himmaleh Bar & Deck offers drinks, finger food and multi-cuisine options in a relaxed setting. For a long weekend that feels like a genuine departure from the everyday, Corbett Hideaway offers the chance to disconnect from the corporate calendar, reconnect with nature and return ready for the celebrations and festivities ahead. Taj Palace Lucknow, An Escape Into Royalty The newly launched Taj Palace, Lucknow offers a fresh way to experience the city, bringing Lucknow’s cultural character into a contemporary luxury setting. As the journey moves from the banks of the Gomti into a dense woodland, the hotel draws nature into its architecture through hand-carved Italian sandstone, brass, cane, wood and expansive glass. The lush surroundings and thoughtful design create a sense of escape within the city, making it an inviting choice for those looking to make the most of a long weekend. The stay can take on a different rhythm for every member of the family, whether it is catching up over cocktails at Shadow & Oak, lingering over a meal at House of Ming or Machan, unwinding at the city’s first J Wellness Circle, or simply spending an afternoon by the rooftop pool. With intimate dining experiences, cultural immersions and culinary workshops for families, Taj Palace, Lucknow brings together food, wellness, nature and heritage, offering an easy blend of discovery and relaxation for families, friends or those simply looking to reconnect with themselves. Ayodhyām, Ayodhya – IHCL SeleQtions – A Serene Spiritual Escape For those looking to combine a long weekend with a deeper sense of place, Ayodhyām, Ayodhya – IHCL SeleQtions offers a contemporary stay rooted in the spiritual and cultural heritage of Ayodhya. The 162-key hotel features expansive, light-filled spaces that create a calm and serene environment, offering a contemporary setting that remains closely connected to the character of the destination. The experience extends beyond the stay through thoughtfully curated experiences inspired by Ayodhya’s living traditions. Guests can begin their mornings with curated aartis, participate in storytelling sessions led by kathavachaks, explore guided spiritual trails and visit the sacred Sarayu, creating opportunities to engage with the city’s spiritual heritage at an unhurried pace. Dining forms an integral part of the experience, with Divyam offering a curated menu rooted in the region’s culinary traditions, with an emphasis on authenticity and local flavours. The property also features an outdoor pool and fitness centre, alongside versatile venues for weddings, conferences and social gatherings. For a long weekend that brings together spiritual discovery, contemporary hospitality, regional cuisine and moments of calm, Ayodhyām offers a meaningful way to experience Ayodhya while slowing down before the festive season gathers pace. Taj Surajkund Resort & Spa, Delhi NCR – A Refined Retreat Amidst the Aravallis For a getaway without venturing too far from Delhi, Taj Surajkund Resort & Spa offers an elegant retreat at the foothills of the Aravallis. Inspired by the architecture of the 1920s and surrounded by beautifully landscaped spaces, the resort brings together expansive grounds, contemporary comforts and a distinctly leisurely atmosphere. Its 287 rooms and suites overlook verdant gardens, the infinity pool or the central courtyard, creating serene spaces to retreat to after a day of exploring the property. The two-storey J Wellness Circle adds another dimension to the stay, with restorative massages, signature therapies, yoga and wellness experiences designed around relaxation and rejuvenation. Dining is equally central to the experience. Vista brings together global and Indian flavours, while Paranda celebrates North Indian cuisine through the Ras Rang Thali, offering an indulgent exploration of regional flavours. Guests can also savour the authentic Chinese flavours of Golden Dragon, the legendary restaurant known for its celebrated culinary legacy, while The Promenade Lounge offers an elegant setting for drinks, light bites and leisurely evening conversations. Whether the itinerary involves poolside afternoons, wellness experiences or simply exploring the landscaped grounds, Taj Surajkund offers an easy, indulgent long-weekend escape where relaxation takes centre stage. Taj Damdama Lake Resort & Spa, Gurugram – A Countryside Retreat Surrounded by Nature Just a comfortable drive from Delhi, Taj Damdama Lake Resort & Spa, Gurugram offers a tranquil countryside escape at the foothills of the Aravallis. Spread across 20 acres of expansive greenery and inspired by the region’s natural landscape, the resort offers a welcome change of pace from the city. Its 143 rooms, suites and private villas, including options with plunge pools, provide spacious settings to unwind amidst nature. Interiors draw on earthy olive, ochre and rust tones, complemented by Gond, Kalamkari and Madhubani art and Mewati marble inlays, creating a strong sense of place. A long weekend here can unfold at an unhurried pace, beginning with leisurely breakfasts before moving into restorative treatments at J Wellness Circle. Traditional Indian healing meets contemporary wellness through signature therapies and an indulgent Hammam experience. Beyond the resort, guests can explore Damdama Lake and the surrounding Aravalli landscape or simply spend an afternoon taking in the expansive grounds. With its combination of nature, wellness, distinctive design and relaxed dining experiences, Taj Damdama Lake offers a wholesome countryside retreat for those looking to make the most of a few days away from the city. Vivanta Gurugram, Sector 95A – A Contemporary Staycation Close to Home Sometimes, the best weekend getaways are the ones that don't involve extensive travel at all. Located just off the Delhi–Jaipur National Highway, Vivanta Gurugram, Sector 95A offers a refreshing contemporary staycation that combines intuitive hospitality with modern comforts. Its 154 thoughtfully designed rooms and suites provide a welcoming retreat, while the rooftop swimming pool offers panoramic views of Gurugram's evolving skyline. Guests can spend leisurely afternoons relaxing by the pool before exploring the hotel's vibrant culinary offerings. Mynt presents an eclectic menu inspired by global flavours, while Wink serves signature cocktails alongside dramatic rooftop views. The open-to-sky Tease lounge provides another inviting setting to unwind, making the hotel equally suited for couples, families and groups of friends looking to celebrate the weekend together. Blending accessibility, stylish design and memorable dining experiences, Vivanta Gurugram proves that meaningful escapes can begin just minutes from home.