The new year is around the corner, and so is our annual travel calendar. Our suggestions for where to go in 2024 range from beach destinations to heritage cities, festivals to lesser-known locations in remote areas, and sustainable retreats. But keep in mind that travel demand is surging and travellers are pledging to spend more on vacations this year, so don't put off your plans. Now is the time to book that once-in-a-lifetime trip and explore new parts of the country.
Head to Ahmedabad for Makar Sankranti (January 14). In Gujarat, it marks the beginning of Uttarayan and the day is celebrated with the flying of kites. Hit up the Patang Bazar in the older part of the city. And take part in the International Kite Festival held in Sardar Patel Stadium in Ahmedabad. While there, explore the stunning architectural wonders of Ahmedabad. Old Ahmedabad was declared India's first UNESCO World Heritage City in 2017. Explore the city through a heritage walk. And do not miss the wondrous stepwells like Rani ki Vav.
Alternatively, you can experience the colours of the desert at the Bikaner Camel Festival, expected to be held from January 13-15. The whole city colours itself in celebration of the ship of the desert. You can witness grand parades and processions, starting from Junagarh Fort. You can also relish traditional Rajasthani cuisine while enjoying folk music and dance performances.
In addition, Lollapalooza, billed as the world's largest music festival, is set to held on January 27 and 28 at Mahalaxmi Race Course, Mumbai. The festival has put together a stellar line-up of international musical artists such as Sting, Jonas Brothers, One Republic, among others. Check here for tickets. More info here.
Goa, the sunny beach paradise of India, is renowned for its pristine coastline, vibrant nightlife, and laid-back atmosphere. February is a good time for a holiday here, as this is the time for the famed Goa Carnival. The three-day festival is believed to have been started by the Portuguese settlers who ruled Goa for about 500 years. There are many interesting things to do here, when you are done with the beaches.
Walk through Fontainhas, the old Latin Quarter, and take a tour of the Tambdi Surla Temple complex located within the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary. Familiarise yourself with the art of the late Mario Miranda. Hang out at the many atmospheric bars in Goa in the evenings. The land of susegad is noted for its GI-tagged alcoholic beverage—cashew feni. Head out on a tour to discover the best varieties. Also, explore the collection at The Museum of Christian Art (MoCA). It is housed in the 17th-century Convent of Santa Monica, a heritage monument of great historic and architectural importance which is located in the vicinity of Old Goa's UNESCO World Heritage Monuments.
Film aficionados, head to the Pink City in February for the 16th edition of the annual Jaipur International Film Festival from February 9 to 13, 2024. You can find out more about the schedule of screenings here.
March is the time for the vibrant festival of Holi. Get drenched in the colours of the festival and have a magical time at several places around the country. For instance, you could visit Uttar Pradesh for the famous Lathmar Holi of Barsana that sees a large crowd of people coming to see it first-hand from all across the country and even abroad.
Another alternative is to hit the emerald coast in Kochi in Kerala, the destination of the famous art biennale and often celebrated for its picturesque backwaters, lush green landscapes, and historical landmarks. While these attractions certainly make Kochi a popular tourist destination, there is much more to this city than meets the eye. Beyond the well-trodden paths lie hidden treasures waiting to be discovered by those willing to explore the offbeat side of Kochi. For instance, stunning art in picturesque city streets, studios and cafes. Check here for our guide to things to do in the city.
When looking for summer breaks, most travellers will tend to head to well-known destinations in the Himalayas. Not many know about the rolling green Himalayan foothills and lush jungles of the Dooars region, where there are hidden gems waiting to be discovered. The gateway to India from Bhutan, set in the foothills of the eastern Himalayas, the Sankosh River splits the Dooars into its western and eastern regions, spread over Sikkim and West Bengal. The Dooars is a hub of natural diversity with a variety of tea gardens and a number of wildlife hotspots like Manas National Park, Buxa National Park, Gorumara National Park, and the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary. Check out our guide here. Several resorts and hotels have opened up in Dooars, but probably the most atmospheric accommodation option in Dooars is the forest rest houses.
With summer here, head out to Uttarakhand's Pithoragarh district wherein lies the picturesque village of Sarmoli. The idyllic hamlet is located in the Munsiyari region, with the majestic Panchachuli peaks as its backdrop. It has been a shining example of sustainable and eco-friendly tourism. Here, the concept of green tourism has not only taken root but flourished. At the heart of this transformation is the village's unique homestay programme. It was awarded the prestigious title of India's best tourism village in 2023.
Uttarakhand's hill stations, known for their pristine lakes, scenic spots and adventure activities, are now offering travellers astro-tourism experiences with glimpses of eclipses, meteor showers, moon craters and binary stars.
If you love travelling, Ladakh should indisputably make it to your bucket list of places to visit. And even if you have visited the region earlier, it's not yet time to check it off, for besides Nubra and Leh, there's so much more to explore in the lesser-known villages. For instance, Lamayuru has one of the region's oldest monasteries and many legends surrounding the village. Its crater-like landscape also has you convinced you've found yourself on the moon, earning it the name "moonland." This is also a good time to visit as temperatures are on the moderate side.
Kashmir, located in the northern part of the Indian subcontinent, is often referred to as "Paradise on Earth" due to its breathtaking landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, pristine lakes, and rich cultural heritage. You can base yourself in Srinagar. Or go on the trail of offbeat places in the enchanting valley. Check out the less traversed Keran sector located in the Neelum Valley on the bank of the Neelum (Kishanganga) River. On your way to Keran, you will pass through the picturesque Firkiyan Gali or Pharkiyan Gali, a mountain pass at an altitude of 9,840 ft with a breathtaking 360-degree view.
Amritsar, a city steeped in history and culture, is most renowned for the Golden Temple, a place of spiritual solace and one of India's most iconic landmarks. However, Amritsar hides a treasure trove of unique experiences waiting to be explored. For instance, it has the world's first museum dedicated to the period of the Partition, the Gobindgarh Fort, amazing markets, and mouthwatering food. While planning your trip to Amritsar, be sure to include these offbeat activities in your itinerary to make the most of your visit.
Udaipur, often called the "City of Lakes" and the "Venice of the East," is known for its majestic palaces, stunning lakes, and rich cultural heritage. This enchanting city in Rajasthan has always been a popular destination for tourists worldwide. Several lesser-known places in Udaipur are equally enchanting and worth exploring. If you count yourself as a birder, you must head out to Menar Bird Village. While Rajasthan is home to many prolific birding destinations, such as the Keoladeo National Park, this quaint village is having its moment under the spotlight as it has been chosen by the Ministry of Tourism for "Best Tourism Village Competition 2023" after winning the silver award in the "Travel for Life" category. Moreover, it is also set to attain the Ramsar site status.
With the onset of cooler temperatures, head out to Guwahati, the largest city in Assam. The bustling metropolis is deeply rooted in history and culture. This ancient city has witnessed the rise and fall of dynasties, the spread of religions, and the passage of time. Besides the very famous Kamakhya Temple, there are many other hidden gems waiting to be discovered by spiritual travellers as well as history enthusiasts.
Considered one of the largest camel and livestock trade fairs in Asia, the Pushkar Mela of Rajasthan is held around Kartik Purnima (in November). Usually lasting around seven days, this traditional fair has become a global attraction.
Get up close with indigenous cultures in Anini, a remote town in Arunachal Pradesh, primarily inhabited by the Idu Mishmi tribe. The Idu Mishmi and other indigenous tribes in Anini are believed to have migrated from ancient Tibet over a thousand years ago.
End the year on a meditative note. In the bustling chaos of modern life, finding tranquillity and balance has become increasingly important. Puducherry has several spiritual retreats that are perfect for a quiet break. Check out our list here.
If you are looking for tranquility, with some sun and surf in the mix, and if you want to enjoy all things Goa, but in a more peaceful environment, Varkala is the place to be. Located in the southern tail of Kerala, this coastal town has all the trappings of a chilled-out weekend getaway. Think cute cafes, lively shacks overlooking the breathtaking Arabian Sea, and yoga retreats.
Or head out for some peace and quiet at the Deepor Beel Wildlife Sanctuary, in the Kamrup district of the lower Brahmaputra valley, and a perennial freshwater lake on the outskirts of Guwahati, Assam. The state's only Ramsar site (declared in 2002) and a well-known tourist spot, the Deepor Beel is also the only central storm-water storage basin for Guwahati.