Are you sick of the same traffic, the four walls, and the same desk every day? You’re not alone. More people in India want a break from the daily routine but can’t take long leaves from work. So, they mix both, work and vacation, and this is where the idea of a workcation comes in.
A workcation is precisely what it sounds like: a combination of vacation and work. You bring your laptop, find a peaceful location, be it a beach, the hills, or a small town and spend a few days or even weeks working from there. In order to get some fresh air, improve their concentration, and feel better at the end of the day, many young professionals, independent contractors, and startup teams now choose unconventional workcations in India.
According to statistics, 94% of workers say work-life balance is important, and the rise of workcations in 2023 shows that more people are looking for flexible ways to balance work and personal life.
Let’s explore why workcations are trending in India, which hidden places are best for it, and how you can plan one without any hassle.
Why Are Workcations Gaining Popularity?
During the lockdown, we learned that work can happen from anywhere, your living room, kitchen, or even your bed. Nowadays, a lot of businesses still permit remote work on certain days or weeks of the year. This is made possible by new co-working spaces, improved transportation, and fast internet.
A workcation prevents burnout while assisting you in maintaining productivity. Instead of loud noises, you wake up to sea waves or misty hills. Instead of going to a busy cafe, you go for a quick walk or hike. After completing your calls, you enjoy a cup of chai on a balcony overlooking the city. Isn’t that preferable to spending your days gazing at a gray wall?
Offbeat Workcation Places in India You’ll Love
We are all aware of Manali and Goa. However, what if you would prefer to work from a quiet, new location and avoid the crowds? These treasures are ideal for a peaceful work vacation in India.
1. Bir Billing, Himachal Pradesh
Bir Billing is the place for adventure, slow living, and mountains. Paragliding has made this tiny Himachal village famous. However, a lot of people come here merely to work quietly.
There are welcoming hosts, mountain-facing homestays, and adorable cafes with Wi-Fi. You can see vibrant paragliders soar overhead in the morning. You can go for a quick walk after work or enjoy coffee and fresh momos at a cafe.
Many people call Bir India’s mini digital nomad hub. It’s still not too commercial, so you get the calm you need.
2. South Goa
Goa is always on lists for work vacations, but skip the party beaches. Try the serene beaches of Palolem, Agonda, or Patnem in South Goa instead. Here, small homestays and boutique stays offer desks, Wi-Fi, and beachside views.
Imagine working on your laptop at a shack in the morning while drinking fresh coconut water, and then swimming at nightfall to cap off the day. Longer booking rates are now available for workcation guests at many accommodations. Rent a scooter and explore secret coves if you need a break.
3. Udaipur, Rajasthan
You would assume that Udaipur is only a tourist destination with lakes and palaces, but this historic city is also a great place to go on a work vacation. Many former havelis are now homestays with powerful Wi-Fi and workspaces on the roof.
You can work from a peaceful cafe in the ancient city alleyways or relax by Lake Pichola with your laptop. Take an evening boat trip, go to local art stores, or listen to traditional music after work. Udaipur is unique for creative people who require fresh ideas because of its blend of culture and tranquility.
4. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
If you want nature, spirituality, and adventure together, Rishikesh is a great pick. Nowadays, a lot of riverside cottages and yoga retreats have high-speed internet and tiny work stations.
Yoga by the Ganga is a great way to start the day. Meetings can be concluded in a serene garden before going for a little trek or river walk. Here, cafes serve delicious chai and organic meals. Attend community events if you enjoy networking with other remote workers. You feel both free and connected in Rishikesh.
5. Wayanad, Kerala
Wayanad, which is surrounded by woods, waterfalls, and spice plantations, is located in Kerala’s Western Ghats. It’s a hidden gem for workcations because it’s less busy than Coorg or Munnar.
Numerous treehouses and plantation stays provide peaceful surroundings, tasty home cooking, and quick internet. Work while listening to birdsong. Visit coffee estates, caves, or waterfalls during the weekends. All year long, the temperature remains cool. When you want to log off, Wayanad is a welcome change.
How to Choose the Best Location for a Workcation?
To prevent surprises, verify a few items before making your reservation:
- Wi-Fi Quality: Always verify ratings or inquire about the speed from hosts.
- Power Backup: Since power outages can occur in remote areas, backup power is important.
- Network Signal: While Wi-Fi is available in some locations, phone signals are weak.
- Comfortable Desk: You can work more effectively with a nice chair and table.
- Co-working Spaces or Nearby Cafes: You may need a change of scenery.
- Positive Reviews: Examine the opinions of other remote workers.
- Long-Stay Offers: Weekly or monthly savings are available for many stays.
How to Manage Vacation and Work?
You still have to meet deadlines even though working from a picturesque location can feel like a vacation. Here’s how to strike a balance between them:
- Decide on your working hours. Follow them to avoid working all day.
- Take genuine breaks by going for a small local food or a stroll.
- Inform your team of any changes to your schedule.
- Meet other travelers while showing consideration for their work schedules.
- After work, visit new places.
- Give to neighborhood cafes and small businesses; your purchases benefit the neighborhood.
Things to Bring for a Stress-Free Work Vacation
Be clever, but pack light. For a stress-free work vacation, bring these necessities:
- The laptop with its charger
- Power bank with extension cord
- Dongle for portable Wi-Fi (as a backup)
- Headphones for calls
- Notebooks and pens
- Reusable bottle or coffee mug
- Light jacket or raincoat (mountains get cold anytime)
- A book to read when you log off
In a Nutshell
Workcations are not just a trend, they’re becoming a smart way to break the routine without stopping your work life. India has many beautiful offbeat places where you can finish your tasks and relax in nature. Whether you choose mountains, beaches, forests, or heritage towns, a good workcation refreshes your mind and helps you work better.
So, pack your laptop, find a spot that calls you, and give this new way of travel a try. You may come back with fresh ideas, better focus, and stories to tell for life.
Happy working, happy travelling!
