New Delhi: Not everyone enjoys family trips all the time. For a change, many Indian professionals are embracing a different travel trend — frolleague trips. The term combines friend and colleague, referring to co-workers who have grown close enough to travel together beyond the confines of office life. The concept originated in Western corporate culture during the 2010s and gradually found its way into Indian workplaces after the pandemic, when many professionals sought stronger personal connections outside work.
Today, frolleague trips have become a popular way to unwind, celebrate project milestones and strengthen friendships beyond office meetings. The trend is particularly popular among millennials and Gen Z professionals, alongside bleisure (business combined with leisure travel), which is also reshaping how working Indians plan their holidays. If you are planning a monsoon getaway with your office friends, these destinations offer the perfect mix of relaxation, activities and memorable experiences.
Frolleagues often share similar work schedules, leave calendars and travel budgets, making weekend getaways easier to plan. Travelling together also strengthens friendships, builds trust and creates memories that often translate into better teamwork back at the workplace. However, respecting personal space, discussing budgets in advance and setting clear expectations can help avoid misunderstandings during the trip.
Highlights
The City of Lakes looks especially beautiful during the monsoon as the Aravalli hills turn lush green and the lakes brim with fresh rainwater. Grand palaces, heritage hotels and pleasant weather make it a refreshing escape.
Things to do
Take a sunset boat ride on Lake Pichola, explore the magnificent City Palace and enjoy rooftop dinners overlooking the illuminated lake.
Why it suits frolleagues
Luxury stays, scenic surroundings and relaxed evenings provide the perfect setting for colleagues to unwind, chat freely and strengthen friendships away from workplace pressure.
Highlights
Nestled in the Sahyadri hills, Panchgani offers mist-covered valleys, cool weather and panoramic views from the famous Table Land, making it an easy monsoon escape from Mumbai and Pune.
Things to do
Visit Mapro Garden, explore Devrai Art Village and capture group photographs from Sydney Point.
Why it suits frolleagues
Short road trips, shared playlists and leisurely walks through the mist naturally encourage conversations that rarely happen inside the office.
Highlights
For those wanting to skip mountain roads, Pondicherry offers colourful French-inspired streets, charming cafés and pleasant coastal weather during the monsoon.
Things to do
Cycle through the French Quarter, enjoy café hopping and spend time exploring Auroville.
Why it suits frolleagues
Food trails, seaside strolls and relaxed cafés create an informal atmosphere where colleagues can bond over shared interests and conversations.
Highlights
During the monsoon, Nohkalikai Falls, Mawsmai Caves and the mist-covered Laitlum Canyons showcase Meghalaya at its dramatic best.
Things to do
Trek to a Living Root Bridge, explore limestone caves and experience Shillong’s vibrant café culture and live music scene.
Why it suits frolleagues
Adventure activities encourage teamwork, while cosy evenings with Khasi cuisine and live performances offer the perfect backdrop for meaningful conversations.
Highlights
Surrounded by pine-covered hills, Ziro Valley is known for its tranquil landscapes and the indigenous Apatani community.
Things to do
Walk through emerald-green paddy fields, visit traditional bamboo villages and learn about the region’s sustainable farming practices.
Why it suits frolleagues
Its peaceful surroundings make Ziro ideal for creative professionals looking to disconnect from deadlines, exchange ideas, enjoy photography or simply spend quality time together.
While domestic destinations remain the first choice for many professionals because of limited leave, some groups also choose nearby international destinations such as Sri Lanka and Thailand for longer holidays. Before finalising your itinerary, consider the activities, including trekking, café hopping, wellness retreats, sightseeing or light adventure sports, and choose one that matches everyone’s interests and comfort level.
Click for more latest Travel news. Also get top headlines and latest news from India and around the world at News9.
Sangeeta Das works as Chief Sub Editor in the lifestyle section of News9 Live. Additionally, she contributes to health and entertainment section when required. With a flair for storytelling and an eye for detail, she brings beauty, travel, and mindful living to life through her words. She has 10 years plus experience, including editing in Newsdesk, both print and online media, field reporting and taking interviews of eminent personalities like Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma (former health minister) and former Union minister like Sriprakash Jaiswal. Beyond professional commitments, she loves travelling, writing poetry and fiction. Many of her creative works have been published in reputed newspapers like The Assam Tribune. She loves to keep herself fit and healthy.