From heritage havens to wellness retreats, find the perfect retreat to light up your festival
From mangrove-lined rivers in Odisha to palm-fringed beaches in Kerala, and from leopard-sighted deserts in Rajasthan to wellness havens near Delhi, India’s diverse landscapes offer a festival of experiences. Here are our favourite picks if you're looking for a last-minute getaway this Diwali. Marari Beach Resort, Mararikullam, Kerala For a slow, sun-drenched beach vacation, Marari Beach Resort’s 55-acre stretch of palms and pristine sands is where you should be checking in this weekend. Walk barefoot on the soft sands at dawn, watching the fishermen haul in their morning catch. Spend your days lounging in the shade of palm trees that lay between your cottage and the sea, listening only to the waves, an exercise in simplicity and mindfulness. Or dipping into the gorgeous pool or the vast Arabian Sea. Evenings are ideal for sipping fresh coconut water and reflecting on the sheer beauty around you. Cheetahgarh Resort & Spa, Jawai If you want your Diwali getaway to be unlike any other, swap the sound of crackers with the sight of leopards and check into Cheetahgarh Resort & Spa. Spend your day wandering the wilderness on guided leopard safaris, walking authentic Rabari villages with local interactions, or enjoying quiet afternoon moments by the pool. The 20-acre retreat also has rooms with private pools if you fancy completely personal waters and an indulgent Spa to recuperate. The Westin Sohna Resort & Spa, Sohna If you're in Gurgaon and can't go too far for a Diwali vacation, check into this expansive retreats on the outskirts of the city. The resort has designed a host of festive experiences to bring the spirit of Diwali alive for every age group. Families can immerse themselves in nature walks, cycling trails, horse riding, or visits to the petting zoo, while children enjoy sports, creative workshops, and poolside fun. For those seeking balance and renewal, the Heavenly Spa by Westin also has signature therapies on offer. Udaipur Marriott, Udaipur Nestled amidst the Aravalli hills and overlooking the Fateh Sagar Lake, Udaipur Marriott offers a festive vacation that is both regal and replete with all the creature comforts you could need. Relax by the infinity pool, savour Rajasthani cuisine, and rejuvenate at the spa, before you head to explore the city of lakes in all its festive glory. Narendra Bhawan, Bikaner Step into the art-deco elegance of Narendra Bhawan, a boutique hotel narrating the legacy of Bikaner’s last Maharaja. Curated culinary experiences, spa therapies, and bespoke activities, right from museum dinners to royal explorations, will turn a weekend escape into a deep dive into Rajasthan’s regal past. The elegant venues, avant-garde outdoor spaces, scrumptious culinary experiences and regal hospitality makes the unconventionally curated, Narendra Bhawan Bikaner a perfect hotel for your extravagant holiday. Aramness Gir, Gujarat Situated on the outskirts of Gir National Park, Aramness Gir is a luxury property with eco-village-inspired lodge seamlessly combining traditional and contemporary elements, boasting 18 elegant kothis with private plunge pools that offer breathtaking views of the jungle. You can spend the long weekend exploring the Gir National Park, guided by expert naturalists who will deepen your understanding of conservation efforts that influence the inhabitants of the jungle, particularly the iconic Asiatic lions. Tilar Siro Andamans, Havelock Island, Andaman There are many reasons why Andaman is high up on our family travel bucket lists. At Tilar, you can choose from spacious villas with private balconies or cosy cottages nestled amidst greenery, but you wouldn’t want to stay indoors in a property surrounded by nature’s bounty. Take your kids for a day out at the stunning Vijaynagar Beach, or maybe a scuba diving lesson to show them coral reefs teeming with colourful fish. Back at the resort, there is ample space for your kids to partake in games while you and your partner can unwind at the spa. Amaya, Kasauli, Himachal Pradesh There is no doubt that the time to be mindful of the fragility of the mountains is now. And a newly-opened sustainable sanctuary does just that. Amaya was envisioned as a sanctuary where travellers could seek respite from the fast-paced city life and breathe in the crisp mountain air. A 7-year journey by its founder Deepak Gupta culminated in this structure that effortlessly blends traditional know-how of the region with modern design and amenities. The sustainably curated homes are all inspired by the villages of Kasauli. While sustainability and minimalism are at the core of this quiet retreat, Amaya also offers luxurious experiences like a heated outdoor pool and saunas to those that seek a luxe getaway. The Tamara Coorg, Coorg, Karnataka Lush greenery, plantations of the most aromatic coffee, cardamom and pepper, beautiful streams, and gushing waterfalls are all part of the experience at this stunning eco-resort. The Tamara Coorg spans 180 acres, giving you nature and luxury at its best as you wake up to the breathtaking view and the calming silence of the hills, disturbed only by the chirping birds and the rustle of leaves. If you and your partner love coffee, you can brew your blend before heading out on an intimate plantation walk. Couples, spas, and quiet dinners await you at this stunning hill station. Six Senses Fort Barwara, Rajasthan Transformed from a 14th-century fort once owned by a Rajasthani royal family, this Six Senses sanctuary of well-being faces the Chauth ka Barwara Mandir temple. Conservation initiatives, including rewilding the eastern forest with native species and reviving the Barwara lake, have turned the fort into a symbol of luxury with 48 suites. The fort's walls retain two heritage temples, and sustainable practices such as water conservation, local organic produce, and support for nearby artisans contribute to its eco-friendly ethos. Radisson Blu Plaza, Karjat This luxurious resort, located between Mumbai and Pune, amidst the serene hills of Karjat, offers a quick escape from the bustle of city life. The resort's elegant accommodations, world-class amenities, and enviable views of the beautiful Sahyadri Mountains and the Ulhas River, make it the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway. Plus, they are hosting an incredible Diwali party from November 1 to November 3. Each day is packed with engaging activities such as pottery making, caricature drawing and live music, ensuring your long weekend is filled with joy, light, and togetherness. Tipai - Wildlife Luxuries, Tipeshwar If you're looking for a more immersive getaway in the wilderness of India, this offbeat luxury resort, a short drive from the Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary is a great pick. Founder Keyur Joshi’s love for wildlife is apparent in this new lodge, where comfort is a given, even if tiger sightings aren't. Expect cosy villas offering privacy and comfort, with your own pool and plenty of space to relax. The culinary offerings at Tipai are equally impressive. Chef Amninder Sandhu's innovative Indian cuisine, prepared using fresh, local ingredients, is a highlight. From the cosy Perch to the elegant Wadi and the exceptional Palaash, each dining venue offers a unique culinary experience. Simply put, whether it’s a relaxed morning or an afternoon adventure, the pace is yours to set in the untouched forests of Tipeshwar. Brij Anayra, Dharamshala Step into history at Brij Anayra, a beautifully restored heritage property once frequented by tea planters and British Viceroys. With 12 elegantly appointed suites overlooking lush tea plantations and snow-capped peaks, this property is ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat. Embrace the festive spirit with guided nature walks and local cultural experiences, all while enjoying the stunning views that make this location truly unforgettable. Amanbagh, Alwar Amanbagh is a luxurious oasis set in a lush valley surrounded by the Aravalli Mountains. This resort reflects Mughal architecture and offers an authentic experience with spacious suites and private pools. Guests can enjoy candle-lit dinners under the stars, spa treatments inspired by traditional Indian wellness practices, and excursions to nearby heritage sites, making it a perfect spot for a festive getaway. Travel News - Find latest news and tips based on Indian and World travel including top 10 travel destination, tourism information, how to reach visit and more at Times Now.