October 2025 is shaping up to be a dream month for travelers, with three long weekends lined up thanks to major festivals like Dussehra and Diwali. Whether you are looking for cultural experiences, festive celebrations, or a quick escape into nature, the calendar offers plenty of opportunities.
October 2025 Long Weekend Dates
1. October 1–5 (5 Days)
2. October 18–20 (3 Days)
3. October 23–26 (4 Days)
October 2025 Long Weekends: Where to Go and What to See
Mysuru, Karnataka: If there’s one place that defines Dussehra in India, it’s Mysuru. The Mysuru Palace glows with 100,000 lights, and the grand royal procession featuring caparisoned elephants is a sight to behold. The entire city transforms into a cultural carnival, with concerts, exhibitions, and traditional performances that bring Karnataka’s heritage alive.
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh: In Varanasi, Dussehra is more than just a festival — it’s an experience that connects spirituality, mythology, and community. The city hosts one of India’s oldest Ram Leela performances, while the ghats buzz with rituals, prayers, and festive processions. Watching effigies of Ravana burn by the Ganga adds a surreal energy to the celebrations.
Goa: For those who would rather skip the festive rush, Goa in October is a quiet paradise. The monsoon crowds have left, leaving the beaches calmer and cleaner. Shacks reopen, the weather is breezy, and you can enjoy the state’s Portuguese charm, lush greenery, and seaside sunsets without the chaos of peak season.
Kerala Backwaters: The backwaters of Alleppey and Kumarakom are at their tranquil best in October. Glide through palm-lined canals on a traditional houseboat, watch fishermen cast their nets, and soak in the calm after Kerala’s heavy monsoons. It’s the perfect start-of-October detox trip.
Jaipur, Rajasthan: Diwali in Jaipur is nothing short of magical. The Pink City lives up to its name as every street, palace, and market glows with fairy lights and diyas. The bazaars come alive with shoppers buying sweets, handicrafts, and jewelry, while the City Palace hosts special events. Strolling through Johari Bazaar under sparkling lights is an unforgettable festive experience.
Udaipur, Rajasthan: If Jaipur dazzles with grandeur, Udaipur charms with romance. Known as the City of Lakes, Udaipur turns into a shimmering postcard during Diwali. Lake Pichola reflects the glow of lamps from the palaces and ghats, while rooftop cafes offer the perfect view of fireworks lighting up the Aravalli hills.
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh: On Diwali night, Varanasi becomes a sea of lights. Thousands of diyas float down the Ganga, and the Ganga Aarti turns into an overwhelming spiritual spectacle. The ghats look ethereal, and the energy of prayers, bells, and fireworks makes Varanasi one of the most moving Diwali destinations in India.
Rishikesh & Haridwar, Uttarakhand: For a more serene Diwali, head to the Himalayan foothills. In Rishikesh and Haridwar, the riverbanks are lit with diyas, and the Ganga Aarti offers a calmer yet equally magical festive vibe. It’s perfect for travelers who want a spiritual celebration away from the hustle of big cities.
Agra & Fatehpur Sikri, Uttar Pradesh: This long weekend is perfect for a short cultural escape. Agra’s Taj Mahal glows even brighter under clear autumn skies, while the nearby Mughal capital of Fatehpur Sikri lets you step back in time. Together, they make for a two-day trip filled with history, architecture, and heritage walks.
Shimla, Himachal Pradesh: If the mountains are calling, Shimla in October offers crisp weather, pine-scented breezes, and peaceful walks along the Ridge. With the summer tourists gone, you can enjoy apple orchards, colonial charm, and cozy evenings by the fireplace in heritage hotels.
Manali, Himachal Pradesh: Manali is picture-perfect in October — think golden valleys, snow-dusted peaks, and lively cafés. It’s also the start of adventure season, with trekking, paragliding, and river rafting drawing thrill-seekers. If you are lucky, you might catch early snowfall in Solang Valley.
Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj, Himachal Pradesh: For a blend of Tibetan culture and mountain serenity, Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj are unbeatable. Monasteries, prayer flags, and cafes overlooking the Dhauladhars create a peaceful vibe. October’s clear skies make it an ideal time for short hikes like Triund.
Andaman & Nicobar Islands: If you are craving the sea, head to the Andamans. October marks the start of the tourist season, with clear skies and calm waters perfect for diving and snorkeling. Explore Havelock’s Radhanagar Beach, take a glass-bottom boat ride, or simply laze by turquoise waters — it’s a tropical paradise with fewer crowds.
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