October 2025 is shaping up to be a dream month for travelers, with three long weekends perfectly lined up around Dussehra, Diwali, and Bhai Dooj. Whether you’re craving a festive vibe, a cultural escape, or a laid-back beach holiday, this month is full of opportunities to hit the road.

Let’s break down the October 2025 long weekend dates and the best destinations to make your trips memorable.

October 2025 Long Weekend Dates

1. October 1–5 (5 Days)

  • Wednesday, October 1: Maha Navami (Restricted Holiday)
  • Thursday, October 2: Dussehra, Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti (Public Holiday)
  • Friday, October 3: Take the day off
  • Saturday, October 4
  • Sunday, October 5

Kickstart October with a five-day escape! With a single leave on Friday, you get an extended weekend to celebrate Dussehra or plan a short vacation.

2. October 18–20 (3 Days)

With Diwali falling on Monday, October 20, this is your chance for a three-day festive holiday. Perfect for soaking in Diwali celebrations or heading out for a quick cultural getaway.

3. October 23–26 (4 Days)

  • Thursday, October 23: Bhai Dooj (Restricted Holiday)
  • Friday, October 24: Apply for leave
  • Saturday, October 25
  • Sunday, October 26

A four-day long weekend at the end of the month — ideal for family trips, mountain escapes, or exploring heritage cities.

Top Destinations for October 2025 Long Weekends

Let’s explore some of the best destinations to enjoy India’s festive season and autumn weather.

Mysuru, Karnataka

Mysuru is the heart of Dussehra celebrations in India, with its iconic palace lit up by over 100,000 lights. The grand royal procession featuring decorated elephants, musicians, and cultural performances is mesmerizing.

An exterior shot of the illuminated Mysuru Palace at night, a grand and ornate building with domes and arches, beautifully lit up with thousands of bulbs.

During the festival, the city turns into a vibrant cultural carnival. From art exhibitions to folk performances, there’s so much to explore. Don’t miss climbing Chamundi Hill for panoramic views or sampling Mysuru’s legendary silk and sweets.

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (Dussehra)

Varanasi offers a spiritual and historic Dussehra experience. The city hosts one of India’s oldest Ram Leela performances, attracting devotees and travelers alike.

A photograph of the Ramlila celebration in Varanasi during Dussehra, showing a large crowd of people watching actors on a stage with a statue or effigy in the background.

Head to the ghats to witness prayers, rituals, and the iconic Ravana effigy burning by the Ganga. Varanasi in October has a unique festive charm — colorful, soulful, and deeply connected to India’s mythology.

Goa

Skip the crowds and enjoy Goa’s calmer side in October. The monsoon has just ended, leaving the beaches clean and lush.

An exterior shot of the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa, a large, ornate red-brick church with a domed roof and a bell tower, with people walking in the foreground.

This is the best time to relax in beachside shacks, take a sunset cruise, and explore Goa’s Portuguese heritage. The weather is breezy, making it perfect for a rejuvenating seaside holiday before the tourist rush kicks in.

Kerala Backwaters

Alleppey and Kumarakom’s backwaters are serene and scenic in October, offering a peaceful retreat.

A scenic photograph of a traditional houseboat, or kettuvallam, on a calm backwater channel in Kerala, with lush green palm trees and a tranquil village on the banks.

Hop on a houseboat, drift through coconut-lined canals, and enjoy traditional Kerala meals on board. With post-monsoon greenery all around, this is an ideal trip for couples and families seeking tranquility.

Jaipur, Rajasthan

Diwali in Jaipur is nothing short of spectacular. The Pink City sparkles as every street, palace, and market is decorated with fairy lights and diyas.

An exterior shot of the Hawa Mahal in Jaipur, a historic red and pink sandstone palace with a honeycomb facade of small windows, standing on a bustling street.

Shopping in Johari Bazaar during Diwali is a treat, with sweets, jewelry, and handicrafts on display. The City Palace also hosts special events, making Jaipur a must-visit for those who love vibrant celebrations.

Udaipur, Rajasthan

If Jaipur is grand, Udaipur is magical. During Diwali, the City of Lakes turns into a glowing postcard.

A scenic photograph of the city of Udaipur at sunset, showing the majestic City Palace and other buildings on the banks of Lake Pichola, with a boat on the water and the sky filled with warm colors.

Watch Lake Pichola reflect thousands of flickering lamps as fireworks light up the night sky. Rooftop restaurants offer incredible views, making this city perfect for a romantic getaway.

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (Diwali)

Diwali night in Varanasi is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Thousands of diyas float on the Ganga, creating a breathtaking view.

the Ganges River and a large crowd of people gathered on the banks. The city buildings are also illuminated in the background.

The Ganga Aarti during Diwali is spiritual and mesmerizing, with chants, bells, and fireworks echoing across the ghats. It’s a destination where tradition meets magic.

Rishikesh & Haridwar, Uttarakhand

For a more peaceful Diwali, head to the Ganga’s foothills. The riverbanks of Rishikesh and Haridwar glow with lamps, and the evening Aarti is serene and soulful.

A scenic photograph of the Ganges River flowing through Rishikesh, with a suspension bridge visible in the background and mountains in the distance.

This is the perfect pick for spiritual travelers seeking calm over chaos. You can also add yoga sessions and riverside walks to your itinerary for a refreshing experience.

Agra & Fatehpur Sikri, Uttar Pradesh

October’s clear skies make Agra perfect for a short getaway. The Taj Mahal’s white marble glows beautifully under the autumn sun.

An exterior shot of the Buland Darwaza, the monumental red sandstone gateway to Fatehpur Sikri, with people in the foreground and a clear blue sky.

Just an hour away is Fatehpur Sikri, a Mughal-era city frozen in time. Together, they offer a weekend full of history, heritage walks, and photo-worthy architecture.

Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

Shimla in October is cool, cozy, and crowd-free. The colonial Ridge, apple orchards, and pine-covered hills make it perfect for a slow holiday.

A scenic photograph of Shimla, showing the colorful buildings of the town nestled on a hillside, with the surrounding green mountains under a blue sky with some clouds.

Evenings by the fireplace in heritage hotels add charm to this classic hill station. It’s ideal for families and couples seeking a relaxing mountain escape.

Manali, Himachal Pradesh

October paints Manali with golden valleys and snow-dusted peaks. This is also when adventure lovers flock here for rafting, trekking, and paragliding.

A busy street scene on Manali's Mall Road, showing a pedestrian street with numerous shops and restaurants, a large crowd of people, and the backdrop of lush green hills.

Visit Solang Valley for early snow or stroll through Old Manali’s vibrant cafes. The pleasant weather makes this a great destination for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.

Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj, Himachal Pradesh

Tibetan culture and Himalayan serenity blend beautifully here. Monasteries, cafes, and prayer flags make this mountain town unique.

A scenic photograph of a monastery or temple complex in Dharamshala, nestled in the Himalayan mountains, with the town visible below and a clear sky with clouds above.

October offers crystal-clear skies, ideal for hikes like Triund. If you’re looking for culture, peace, and Instagram-worthy landscapes, this is your spot.

Andaman & Nicobar Islands

October marks the start of tourist season in the Andamans. The seas are calm, perfect for snorkeling and diving.

A tropical beach scene in the Andaman Islands, with white sand, a turquoise sea, and lush green trees along the shore. A small boat is visible in the distance.

Relax at Radhanagar Beach, explore cellular jail history, or enjoy glass-bottom boat rides. With its turquoise waters and fewer tourists, this is paradise found.

Travel Tips for October Long Weekends