Unique Places to Spend the Independence Day Weekend in India

More than seven decades have passed since India was declared a sovereign nation, and the pride has not abated. We have simply chosen to feel patriotic from the comfort of home. Here’s how you can combine a long Independence Day weekend with a memorable trip that celebrates the struggles of our past.

Join the Parade in Delhi

Yes, we know the Carnival-like parade of the state tableaux happens on Republic Day, but here’s one that’s dedicated to the armed forces who fought for our freedom. Head to the Red Fort where the prime minister hoists the tricolour and a 21-gun salute booms in its honour. You’ll feel a sense of admiration as the national anthem is sung and the various divisions of the Indian armed forces and paramilitary forces march past in their crisp uniforms.

Feel the Pride at Wagah Border

There’s a different atmosphere at this small town lying at the border of India and Pakistan. The daily ‘Beating the Retreat’ ceremony includes a colourful and vigorous display that symbolises in turns rivalry, brotherhood, and cooperation. Independence Day celebrations often include shows of strength, performers and lots of cheers. It’s a strange sense of pride and camaraderie that traverses boundary lines as both sides celebrate freedom from colonial rule just a day apart.

Escape the Party in Goa (or Not!)

Any long weekend is an excuse to come to Goa, but Independence Day is a particularly strong one. Typically, tourists head to one of the dozens of parties at the top clubs in Goa. But if you’re looking for tranquillity, head to Fort Tiracol Heritage Hotel, a revamped 17th-century fort that symbolises freedom here in Goa for the many tussles and rebellions it witnessed over the ages. Stay in one of the seven beautiful rooms and rejoice in the beauty that freedom affords, savouring its sweet taste in a meal of local favourites at Tavern @ Fort Tiracol Heritage Hotel. And if you’re still in the mood for a celebration, this well-located boutique hotel is a short drive away from the musical mayhem.

Step Back in Time

Return to where it all began. Head to places around the country that sparked the flames of the freedom movement and reimagine the patriotism that filled these places despite the hardships. Sabarmati Ashram in Gujarat is the epicentre of India’s freedom struggle, where the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi, trained activists in non-violent satyagraha. Spend the evening at August Kranti Maidan in Mumbai, where Gandhi issued a clarion call for the Quit India Movement on August 8. Or go to the far south of India, to Port Blair in the Andaman Islands, where noted freedom fighters were exiled in the Cellular Jail. The sound and light show there narrates chilling stories from the past that are sure to make you appreciate your freedom even more.

Extend the Holiday

If you love extended celebrations (who doesn’t?!), give yourself a longer break and head to Kerala for Independence Day. You’ll enjoy local revelry and witness the fervour of patriotism even in the hinterland. But stay longer, and it will transcend to even greater festivities as Onam arrives only days after. Across Kerala, and in other states with Malayali populations, you’ll come across parades, elaborate boat races, a wide variety of dances, music, martial arts, costumes, folk songs and the scrumptious spread of Onam Sadya, which can have up to 30 dishes!

Shiver Me Timbers at Siachen Glacier

Take up the ultimate challenge and walk in the footsteps of the soldiers defending our country today. Since 2007, the Indian Army has conducted an annual trek to Siachen Glacier for civilians between August and September. Siachen Glacier is the world’s highest battlefield, its inhospitable conditions claiming lives every so often. Only a few civilians are selected for this arduous expedition each year, which includes acclimatisation, medical check-ups and the 60-kilometre trek from Siachen Camp to Kumar base camp and back at altitudes ranging from 12,000 feet to 16,000 feet.