Friendship Day isn’t just about exchanging bands or emojis — it’s about showing up for the people who make life brighter. And sometimes, the best way to celebrate them is by packing your bags and heading somewhere that makes the memories even sweeter.
Because Friendship Deserves a Destination
Friendship comes in many forms — the childhood confidante who knows all your secrets, the college roommate who became family, the colleague who turned into your emergency contact, or the soul twin you met on a random trip and never let go.
So this Friendship Day (the first Sunday of August), skip the meme or the throwback post — and celebrate by actually being together.
Here are five destinations in India where you can laugh, unwind, and grow with your people.
Rishikesh – For the Wild and the Wise
Perfect for: Your adventure squad or spiritual circle
More than just the yoga capital of the world, Rishikesh is a vibrant blend of adrenaline and introspection. Whether you’re white-water rafting down the Ganges, camping by the riverside, or meditating at sunrise, it’s a place where you can scream “We’re alive!” one moment and sit in stillness the next.
Friendship Moment:
Sitting around a bonfire after zip-lining through the trees, letting the river breeze carry your laughter into the night.
Don’t Miss:
∙ Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat
∙ Laxman Jhula at twilight
∙ Café hopping (especially Little Buddha Café)
Pondicherry – Where Time Slows Down
Perfect for: Friends who crave calm, coffee, and conversations
If your idea of a great day includes beach walks, French architecture, and endless café chats, Pondicherry is your haven. With its serene vibe and artsy corners, it’s made for meaningful slow moments.
Friendship Moment:
Barefoot walks on the Promenade at dawn, eyes half-closed, hearts wide open.
Don’t Miss:
∙ Auroville’s Matrimandir
∙ Café des Arts
∙ Surfing at Serenity Beach
McLeod Ganj – For Heartfelt Talks and Himalayan Hikes
Perfect for: The deep thinkers — bookworms, mountain lovers, and music fans
Nestled in Himachal Pradesh, McLeod Ganj invites you to hike pine trails, sip steaming momos, and share long-overdue conversations. The quiet charm here strengthens bonds in the most unspoken ways.
Friendship Moment:
Trekking to Triund, watching stars flicker into the sky, and losing track of time in deep conversations.
Don’t Miss:
∙ Dalai Lama Temple
∙ Tibetan market treasures
∙ Bhagsu Waterfall trail
Goa – For Non-Stop Fun and No Judgement
Perfect for: The wild bunch — your beach lovers, party starters, and music maniacs
From dancing barefoot under string lights to midnight swims and shack karaoke, Goa is where you can truly let loose. No pretenses, just freedom.
Friendship Moment:
Running into the sea fully clothed, or belting out your favourite songs with strangers-turned-friends.
Don’t Miss:
∙ Sunset at Chapora Fort
∙ Anjuna Flea Market
∙ Night kayaking or a silent disco
Udaipur – For the Old-School Souls
Perfect for: Friends who love nostalgia, culture, and storytelling
Udaipur is elegance in motion — with glimmering lakes, regal palaces, and dreamy cafés. It’s the perfect backdrop for heart-to-hearts and spontaneous photo shoots.
Friendship Moment:
Dressing up just because, dining lakeside, and feeling like royalty in your own period film.
Don’t Miss:
∙ City Palace tour
∙ Boating on Lake Pichola
∙ Bagore Ki Haveli’s cultural showcase
Friendship doesn’t need perfection — just presence. This Friendship Day, give each other the gift of time: unplugged, unhurried, unforgettable. You don’t need a big plan. Even a spontaneous road trip, a weekend getaway, or a long walk in your own city can become a memory worth keeping. What matters is showing up — fully, genuinely, and with love.
Because friends are the mirrors who remind us of who we truly are. So pack light, laugh loud, and make this Friendship Day one to remember.
By Anurati Bhattacharya