July is a month that sits perfectly between the intensity of summer and the serenity of the monsoon. In India, it brings a unique opportunity for travel lovers to explore cooler hill stations, lush green landscapes, cultural festivals, and heritage destinations. Whether you’re a working professional looking for a long weekend escape or a student planning a mid-year adventure, July 2023 offers a handful of holidays and travel possibilities to make the most of your time.
Here’s an in-depth look at the public and regional holidays in India in July 2023, along with travel destination suggestions and activities to help you plan a memorable summer getaway.
Public and Regional Holidays in July 2023 (India)
While July doesn’t have as many pan-India public holidays as some other months, it still offers some excellent opportunities when clubbed with weekends or earned leaves. Here’s a breakdown of holidays that fall in July 2023:
1. Guru Purnima – Monday, July 3, 2023
- Type: Observed in many states as a cultural/religious day
- States Observing: Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh
- Opportunity: With the holiday falling on a Monday, this gives you a great 3-day weekend starting from Saturday (July 1).
2. Rath Yatra – Tuesday, July 4, 2023
- Type: Regional holiday
- States Observing: Odisha, West Bengal, Jharkhand
- Opportunity: Club this with a Monday leave, and you get a 4-day break from July 1 to July 4.
3. Muharram – Wednesday, July 19, 2023
- Type: Gazetted holiday
- Pan-India Observance: Yes
- Opportunity: Although it falls midweek, combining it with leave on Thursday and Friday can result in a 5-day travel window.
Top Destinations to Visit in July 2023
July in India is synonymous with the monsoon, which opens up stunning destinations where the rain adds a magical touch to nature. Whether you prefer mountains, beaches, or cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone.
1. Munnar, Kerala
- Why Go: Lush green hills, misty tea plantations, and waterfalls in full flow.
- Ideal For: Couples, nature lovers, and photographers.
- What to Do: Tea estate tours, trek to Anamudi Peak, visit Mattupetty Dam and Echo Point.
2. Udaipur, Rajasthan
- Why Go: July brings monsoon rains, making the lake city cool and romantic.
- Ideal For: Heritage lovers, romantic getaways.
- What to Do: Visit City Palace, boat rides on Lake Pichola, and explore monsoon palace Sajjangarh.
3. Coorg, Karnataka
- Why Go: Often referred to as the ‘Scotland of India’, Coorg’s coffee estates are lush and misty during July.
- Ideal For: Families, solo travelers, trekkers.
- What to Do: Abbey Falls, Dubare Elephant Camp, and Talacauvery temple.
4. Valley of Flowers, Uttarakhand
- Why Go: Open only from June to October, July is peak blooming season.
- Ideal For: Trekkers, botanists, and adventure seekers.
- What to Do: Trek through the national park, camp under the stars, and witness rare Himalayan flora.
5. Goa (Off-Season Charm)
- Why Go: Fewer crowds, green landscapes, and monsoon festivals like Sao Joao.
- Ideal For: Budget travelers, party-goers, and beach bums.
- What to Do: Explore monsoon backwaters, attend local feasts, and enjoy spice plantation tours.
Festivals and Events in July 2023
India’s cultural vibrancy is on full display even in the rainy season. These festivals are a great way to immerse yourself in local traditions and enjoy unique experiences.
1. Rath Yatra – Puri, Odisha (July 4, 2023)
- What It Is: A massive chariot festival dedicated to Lord Jagannath.
- Why Visit: Experience one of the oldest and grandest religious processions in the country. Pilgrims and tourists flock to Puri for this annual spectacle.
2. Hemis Festival – Ladakh (Early July)
- What It Is: A Buddhist festival celebrated with colorful mask dances at Hemis Monastery.
- Why Visit: It’s one of the most famous and photogenic festivals in Ladakh, combining spirituality and Himalayan culture.
3. Sao Joao Festival – Goa (June 24, but celebrations extend into early July)
- What It Is: A Catholic festival where young men jump into wells and ponds in celebration of St. John the Baptist.
- Why Visit: Dance, music, and vibrant local traditions make this a uniquely Goan experience.
Travel Tips for July Getaways
While July offers great experiences, traveling during the monsoon comes with a few practical considerations. Here are some tips to make your trip smooth:
- Pack smart: Waterproof jackets, good shoes, and insect repellent are musts.
- Check weather conditions: Landslides in hill areas like Himachal or Uttarakhand can disrupt travel.
- Book early: Train and flight tickets during long weekends get snapped up quickly.
- Health precautions: Carry medicines for common issues like colds or stomach upsets. Rainy weather can sometimes trigger seasonal illnesses.
Budget-Friendly Travel Ideas
For those on a tight budget, July is a fantastic month to travel without breaking the bank. Here’s how:
- Opt for off-season destinations: Places like Goa, Ooty, and Kodaikanal offer discounted stays and less crowd.
- Use regional trains or buses: These are reliable and cost-effective.
- Travel in groups: Splitting costs for accommodation and taxis helps save money.
- Stay in homestays or hostels: These often provide more personalized and affordable lodging options.
Suggested Itinerary: 3-Day Monsoon Escape
If you’re planning around Guru Purnima (July 3), here’s a short getaway idea:
Destination: Lonavala-Khandala (from Mumbai or Pune)
Day 1 (Saturday): Arrive and explore Bhushi Dam and Tiger’s Leap. Enjoy street-side corn and tea in the rain.
Day 2 (Sunday): Visit Karla Caves and Rajmachi Fort. Try local Maharashtrian cuisine for dinner.
Day 3 (Monday – Holiday): Relax at your resort, enjoy spa time or visit local markets for souvenirs before heading home.
Conclusion: Make the Most of July 2023
July 2023 in India is more than just monsoon showers — it’s a window of opportunity to escape the routine, recharge, and experience the natural and cultural richness the country has to offer. With carefully planned holidays like Guru Purnima, Rath Yatra, and Muharram, you can enjoy scenic landscapes, participate in vibrant festivals, or simply unwind in peaceful surroundings.
So whether you’re itching for a rain-soaked trek in the Himalayas, a relaxed beach trip to the Konkan coast, or a cultural dive into India’s rich heritage, July 2023 has something perfect waiting for you. Pack your bags and let the rhythm of the monsoon guide your journey!
