We get it. Not everyone’s into the fervour and pomp that comes with the festival of lights. If you’ve been cooped up indoors, looking for ways to turn down social invites, we’ve decided to make it simpler for you. These quaint spots serve as the perfect escape to enjoy some peace and quiet over the long weekend and beyond (if you have the privilege of working remotely).

1.The Gulaal, Jaisalmer

The haveli-styled property comprises 24 rooms, including four grand suites. Since the weather and air quality in and around the capital have gotten a lot better due to unexpected rainfall, a quick road trip to The Gulaal in Jaisalmer would now be ideal. Highlights include an exciting camping facility, the Maharaja Lounge, and their in-house rooftop that overlooks the Sonar Kella and the iconic Thar dessert in the vicinity.

2. Taara House, Manali, Himachal Pradesh

If a cottage-style villa feels more like your mojo as opposed to an opulent, state-of-art hotel; the Taara House in Manali won’t disappoint. Given that tranquility marries modern-day luxury at this property, there’s plenty to do to keep yourself occupied while you escape the pomp and pollution of the big cities. Unmissable elements include a kitchen facility that enables you to prepare your own meals and a glasshouse, which is a specially designed section with a glass roof and floor-to-ceiling glass windows that make it conducive for star-gazing. Given how the property is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, be assured to get Instagrammable pictures from the trips.

3. Glasshouse 91, Alibaug

What’s not to like about a picturesque modern villa? Nestled in the heart of Alibaug, Glasshouse 91 boasts a suite that features highlights like a private deck, multiple bedrooms, and an expansive living room with a floating pavilion. There’s a very understated luxury-esque vibe that surrounds the property, making it a great stay for those who cherish the finer things in life.

3. Kimmane Golf Resort, Shimoga, Karnataka

A weekend away or just a few days of nothingness can help one go back to routine with productive, positive energy that only makes life better. Kimmane makes sure that leisure is on the top of your priority list with offerings like Kayaking on the lake that rings the golf course and a 72 sq. feet pool that overlooks the magnificent Western Ghats. Follow your swim up with a delish cocktail from the pool bar. For the outdoor adventurists who love a two-wheeler that makes them work their glutes, pedal across the 100-acre property on a cycle and explore the views from different corners.

4. Ayatana Ooty

Ayatana Ooty is an idyllic colonial-style haven, located in the midst of tea plantations of Ooty. Given how the breathtaking views happen to be the main attraction; the uniquely designed cottage provides an incomparable balcony view. What’s more, the property recently launched its pool villas that feature temperature-controlled jacuzzis and pools— the only of their kind in all of Ooty.

5.Royal Heritage Haveli, Jaipur

Owned by Maharaja Jai Singh of Jaipur and run by his niece’s daughter Shambhavi Singh, a stay at the Royal Heritage Haveli promises a personalized and truthful taste of the bygone era of the Maharaja’s way of life with rambling lawns, serene courtyards, 18 suites plus one apartment in service, traditional & flavoured cuisines, and luxurious wellness therapies with the Frangipani Spa. Need we say more?

6. Tranquil Resorts, Wayanad

Spread over 400 acres of private coffee& exotic fruits plantation in Wayanad, the highlight of Tranquil Resorts happens to be its eco-friendly decor throughout the place gives you a truly luxurious feeling amidst the beautiful lush green property.

Hosts Ajay and Nisha are widely known for their warm hospitality, making it a place to visit for those with an eye for placid waters and a home-style stay where everything is taken care of.

7. Amrit Bhavan, Haridwar

Given how the city exudes an old-world charm besides delicious yet ridiculously cheap chaats, Haridwar is a hidden gem for tourists in every sense of the world. However, if you’d prefer stays that have a touch of luxe in them, the Amrit Bhavan won’t disappoint. While paying a visit and watching Ganga aarti in real-time are to-dos that go without saying,

Amrit Bhawan is a quiet retreat away a lot more than just that. Roughly about 5 hours away from Delhi, this private villa that was built in the 70s nudges you to savor some peace and quiet, away from the bustle everywhere else.

8. Gratitude Heritage, Pondicherry

Sunny shores, quaint cafes, picture-esque highlights, and warm people. It’s tough to not like Pondicherry. However, if you’ve never planned a trip to the Union territory, it’s a good time to do so now. For stays, we’d recommend the Gratitude Heritage, a vintage-esque 17th-century mansion. Restored in collaboration with the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage, the property gives you a slice of Anglo-French ancestry. With a designated yoga and massage area, a small library, and many vintage-era-inspired artifacts, you’ll find yourself transported back in time when things were indeed a lot simpler.