Best Places to Visit in India During Independence Day 2025 Long Weekend

Every year on August 15, India comes alive in hues of saffron, white, and green as the nation pays tribute to its hard-fought freedom. Independence Day is a powerful reminder of sacrifice, unity, and the spirit of a nation that refused to be broken. Across the country, cities and towns honour this legacy with unique traditions, ceremonies, and cultural showcases that evoke both pride and emotion.

In 2025, Independence Day falls on a Friday, which means a long weekend in August for many. It is a perfect opportunity to not just celebrate but truly experience patriotism by visiting destinations that have played a key role in India's freedom story. 

Let us begin this heartfelt journey across India through places where history lives on and patriotism stands proud.

In this blog you will know places you can visit in the Independence Day long weekend

• Delhi: Witness the Grand Parade at Red Fort
• Atari-Wagah Border, Punjab: Feel the Roar of Patriotism
• Andaman and Nicobar Islands: A Tribute to Forgotten Heroes
• Manipur: Tallest Flagpole in the North-East at INA Headquarters, Moirang
• Rajasthan: Royal Parades and Patriotic Splendour

Delhi: Witness the Grand Parade at the Red Fort

No Independence Day celebration in India is complete without mentioning Delhi, the heart of the nation's historic and political life. Every year, the iconic Red Fort becomes the centre of national attention as it hosts the grandest and most symbolic celebration of India’s freedom.

On the morning of August 15, the Prime Minister of India hoists the national flag atop the Red Fort. This is followed by a ceremonial 21-gun salute, stirring patriotic speeches, and a parade showcasing the diversity and strength of the Indian armed forces. Cultural performances featuring folk dances, traditional music, and vibrant costumes reflect the rich heritage of India’s states and communities.

While in Delhi, visitors can explore nearby historical landmarks such as India Gate, Raj Ghat, and Rashtrapati Bhavan. 

Where to stay in Delhi

The city also serves as a great starting point for a long weekend getaway. You can extend your patriotic journey to Agra and witness the timeless Taj Mahal while staying at Club Mahindra Saura Hotel. Another excellent option is Club Mahindra Praveg Tent City in Ayodhya, where you can visit to see the Ayodhya Ram Mandir. 

If you want to utilise the entire Independence Day weekend, head towards Club Mahindra Corbett resort. This Resort in Uttarakhand, near Corbett National Park, offers a peaceful resort amidst wildlife and greenery.

Atari-Wagah Border, Punjab: Feel the Roar of Patriotism

Few places in India ignite patriotism as powerfully as the Atari-Wagah Border in Punjab. Located near Amritsar, this international border crossing between India and Pakistan becomes a magnet for national pride every Independence Day. It is also home to India’s tallest flagpole, standing at a towering 418 feet, making the sight of the fluttering tricolour even more awe-inspiring.

Each evening, the Beating Retreat ceremony takes place here, but on August 15, the atmosphere is electric. Thousands gather to witness a stirring display of military precision, tall salutes, thunderous marches, and passionate chants of “Vande Mataram” and “Bharat Mata Ki Jai.” The coordinated parade between Indian and Pakistani soldiers is a rare and emotional spectacle, evoking pride in every Indian heart.

Where to stay in Punjab

Stay at Club Mahindra Fortune Ranjit Vihar, Amritsar, a resort in Punjab that offers comfort and cultural richness. Visit the Golden Temple for a serene spiritual experience, pay homage at Jallianwala Bagh, and explore the Partition Museum nearby. This resort in Amritsar is the ideal base to experience Amritsar’s deep patriotic spirit during the Independence Day weekend.

Andaman and Nicobar Islands: A Tribute to Forgotten Heroes

Tucked away in the Bay of Bengal, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands hold a special place in India's freedom story. In 1943, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose hoisted the Indian flag here, symbolising the first declaration of Indian territory free from British rule under the Indian National Army (INA).

On Independence Day, the capital city of Port Blair commemorates this legacy with a flag hoisting and wreath-laying ceremony at the Martyr's Column, followed by stirring cultural events and patriotic songs. The highlight of the evening is the Light and Sound Show at Cellular Jail, which powerfully narrates the stories of India’s unsung heroes and their sacrifices.

Where to stay in Andaman & Nicobar Islands

This emotional tribute, set against the quiet beauty of the islands, creates a deep and lasting impression. Staying at Club Mahindra Symphony Samudra in Port Blair offers both comfort and proximity to these historical events. While staying at this resort in Andaman you can also explore Symphony Palms in Havelock Island and Symphony Summer Sands in Neil Island for a relaxing island escape.

If you are heading to the Andaman Nicobar Islands during Independence Day weekend, remember to take 2 days of additional leave to enjoy the surroundings to the fullest. 

Manipur: Tallest Flagpole in the North-East at INA Headquarters, Moirang

In the quiet town of Moirang in Manipur lies a chapter of history that many still need to discover. It was here that the Indian National Army (INA), under the leadership of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, first hoisted the tricolour on Indian soil in 1944.

Today, Moirang houses the INA Museum and Memorial Complex, where visitors can view wartime relics, photographs, and documents chronicling the INA’s contribution to India’s freedom. The centrepiece is the tallest flagpole in the North-East, proudly displaying the national flag—a symbol of resilience and pride.

On Independence Day, the town comes alive with cultural performances, local parades, and community tributes, creating a unique blend of history and celebration. For travellers seeking offbeat destinations with strong patriotic significance, Moirang is a hidden gem.

While here, explore Loktak Lake, the largest freshwater lake in the North-East known for its floating phumdis, and visit the Keibul Lamjao National Park, home to the endangered sangai deer. These natural wonders, combined with the region’s historic richness, make for a meaningful and enriching Independence Day journey.

Rajasthan: Royal Parades and Patriotic Splendour

Rajasthan, known for its royal heritage and vibrant culture, celebrates Independence Day with unmatched grandeur and patriotic fervour. Cities like Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur, and Jaisalmer come alive with colour, tradition, and national pride as they host grand parades, ceremonial flag hoisting, and cultural performances set against the backdrop of majestic forts and palaces. 

In Jaipur, the Independence Day parade features police contingents, NCC cadets, folk dancers, and school children, creating a vibrant and emotional display of unity. 

Udaipur’s celebrations around Fateh Sagar Lake blend patriotic songs with lively processions that reflect the city’s charm. 

Jodhpur and Jaisalmer see a strong military presence during the festivities, enhanced by camel shows, traditional music, and cultural tableaux that showcase Rajasthan’s diversity.

Where to stay in Rajasthan

To make the most of this long weekend, travellers can stay at one of the many Club Mahindra resorts in the region, including Club Mahindra Udaipur, Club Mahindra Jaisalmer, Club Mahindra Kumbhalgarh, and Club Mahindra Jaipur. 

These resorts in Rajasthan offer both comfort and a culturally immersive experience. While there, visitors can explore Amber Fort and Hawa Mahal in Jaipur, cruise on Lake Pichola in Udaipur, tour Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur, or witness desert celebrations in Jaisalmer. Rajasthan turns Independence Day into a royal and deeply patriotic celebration.

Planning a Trip This Independence Day 2025 Weekend?

The 2025 calendar brings a wonderful opportunity to combine travel with tribute. With Independence Day falling on a Friday, it creates a long weekend ideal for a meaningful getaway. Rather than celebrating at home, this is your chance to connect with the places where India’s freedom story was shaped.

Each destination mentioned offers a unique experience like the grandeur of Delhi’s Red Fort, the emotional energy at the Wagah Border, or the quiet tribute in Port Blair. These journeys are not just about sightseeing. They are about standing where history was made, feeling inspired, and passing those stories on.

Staying at Club Mahindra Resorts During Independence Day Weekend

Turn your Independence Day trip into a relaxing and enriching holiday with a stay at a resort in Andaman, resort in Punjab, or resort in Rajasthan by Club Mahindra.

• In Andaman, stay at Club Mahindra Symphony Samudra for easy access to Port Blair’s commemorations and beachside serenity. This beachfront resort in Andaman offers easy access to Independence Day events and a peaceful retreat by the sea.
• In Punjab, Club Mahindra Fortune Ranjit Vihar in Amritsar is perfect for Wagah Border visits and spiritual stops. Located close to the Wagah Border and Golden Temple, this resort in Punjab blends comfort with spiritual and patriotic experiences.
• In Rajasthan, explore royal cities while enjoying comfortable stays at Club Mahindra Jaipur, Club Mahindra Jaisalmer, Club Mahindra Udaipur, or Club Mahindra Kumbhalgarh. These resorts in Rajasthan offer a peaceful yet grand setting to mark Independence Day.

Club Mahindra resorts offer a blend of comfort, cultural experiences, and heartfelt hospitality, making them ideal bases for patriotic getaways.

Conclusion

Independence Day is more than a holiday. It is a moment to remember where we came from and honour those who got us here. In 2025, go beyond just watching the celebrations on television. Walk through the places where patriotism lives and breathe in the stories that shaped the nation.

From the Red Fort to the Cellular Jail, let this Independence Day be about journeys that matter. And wherever you go, let Club Mahindra be your trusted companion in comfort and discovery.