The best part about living in a city like Delhi is that it is surrounded by the most amazing places, which are perfect for a weekend getaway. From breath-taking hill-stations to plains brimmed with culture and heritage, Delhi offers an astonishing range of rejuvenating getaways to help you escape the urban chaos. This year, take a pledge to escape the city and indulge in the natural beauty of small towns of India. Here are 10 amazing weekend getaways from Delhi with which you can satisfy your wanderlust.
1. Jaipur
Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan exhibits the essence of Rajasthani heritage, right from its history to the flavorsome local food. With splendid fortresses, magnificent palaces, and architecturally brilliant Havelis, the ‘Pink City’ is the perfect place to enjoy the weekend. It is 288 km from Delhi and takes around 5 hours to reach by car. You can take an elephant ride to explore Amer Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its blend of Rajput and Hindu style of architecture or you can enjoy the view of Jal Mahal resting on the waters of Mansarovar. Jantar Mantar, gardens of Kanak Ghaati and Chokhi Dhani are some of the places you should surely visit.
2. Lansdowne
This calm town in Uttrakhand is home to some of the most breathtaking and picturesque views. It is situated amongst lovely pine and oak forests and is a popular hill station near Delhi. With its salubrious weather and pristine surroundings, Lansdowne is the perfect place to unwind in the lap of nature. The place has a few attractions that are worthy of exploring. These include the War Memorial, St. Mary’s Church and the Santoshi Mata Temple. If you are adventure seekers or outdoor enthusiasts, you will love the many adventure sports such as mountaineering and boating experiences. If you are lucky, you can even experience some snowfall if you are visiting Lansdowne in the winter months.
3. Nainital
Nainital is one of the most visited weekend getaways by the fun-seekers of Delhi. Nestled in Kumaon Hills, it is a hill station boasting the unique, eye-shaped Naini Lake. Famously called the ‘City of Lakes’, this beautiful town of Nainital offers a tranquil break from your monotonous routine. If you love hiking, there are several hiking trails and trekking points in and around it. While you are here, try the aerial rope-way connecting the town with Snow View Point. It offers a breathtaking view of the lake and the surrounding places like China Peak and Tiffin Top. There are many resorts located amongst the backdrop of scenic views and plenty of local authentic food that you will enjoy.
4. Amritsar
Home to the great Golden Temple, the iconic city of Amritsar, portrays a heroic and spiritual charm of Punjab. Well-known for its spiritual and cultural heritage, Amritsar is visited by people from all around the country and abroad. The city is located 450 km from Delhi which is ideal for a weekend getaway from Delhi. When in Amritsar, you should definitely visit the Wagah Border, and the well-known Jallianwala Bagh. The delicious Punjabi dishes and the legendary Punjabi hospitality can further make your weekend a trip to remember.
5. Mathura
Located in Uttar Pradesh, Mathura is among the seven holiest places for Hindus in India and owes its religious significance since it’s the birthplace of Lord Krishna. There are many great religious sites, temples, and other monuments of importance located in this city that you can explore. It is the best weekend getaway for a spiritual traveler as the spiritual town is sure to instill peace in your soul and offer enlightenment. You can also take a holy dip in the Yamuna River, enjoy watersports or soak on the cultural side by visiting the local markets and villages of the town.
6. Jim Corbett
Jim Corbett National Park Is one of the best national parks in India and one of the ideal weekend getaways from Delhi. It is certainly for the wildlife-enthusiasts as you get to spot over 580 species of birds and 50 species of mammals. The National Park is known for its wide variety of animals and birds. Indian elephants, Himalayan black bear, spotted deer, golden jackal, and leopards are among the animals you may spot while on a jungle safari. The Jim Corbett National Park has situated 246 km from Delhi and takes 5 hours to reach from Delhi. The best time to visit Jim Corbett National Park is from February to June when the animals are out and active.
7. Kasauli
Snuggled between Shimla and Kalka in the scenic Shivalik Range, Kasauli is a small hill station. Located 290 km from Delhi, this town is surrounded by dense Oak forest and pine trees, which makes it a perfect place to break away from your life in the city. The serene environment and enchanting calmness that it provides are enough to rejuvenate you. Lover’s Lane, Mall Road, and Christ Anglican Church are other places you must visit while in Kasauli.
8. Rishikesh
Lying at the foothills of the Himalayas, Rishikesh is the hub of temples, popular cafes, yoga ashrams, and adventure sports, like rafting and paragliding. Awaken the adventurer in you, head towards Rishikesh which is 240 km from Delhi. Indulge in adventure sports and get your adrenaline rush to the maximum. If you seek spirituality, make your way to the yoga ashrams in as there is nothing like meditating in the open air with the resonance of the river.
9. Pangot
Pnagot, a small but peaceful and charming hill town is placed in the hilly Kumaon region. It is touted as one of the best weekend getaways from Delhi for those who love trekking, bird watching, adventurous activities, and mountain biking. It is a true bird lover’s paradise as you can spot close to 580 fauna species including Lammergeyer, Rufous-bellied Niltava, Himalayan Griffon, Spotted and Slaty-backed Forktail, and Blue-winged Minla, among many others. Located at about 15 km from the famous hill station of Nainital in Uttarakhand and 310 km from Delhi is the tiny Himalayan hamlet of Pangot. For the adventurer seekers, the place is filled with several trails for short hikes.
10. Mussoorie
Mussoorie is one of the most visited hill stations in Uttarakhand and one of the best weekend getaways from Delhi. The pleasant weather and scenic beauty lure hundreds of tourists to this awesome hill station. There is a lot to see and do in Mussoorie. You can start with admiring the surrounding natural beauty represented by the magnificent Shivalik Ranges. Visit Doon Valley to enjoy the delightful local and international dishes served in the many cafes spread in the area. Recognized as the “Queen of Hills”, the gorgeous hill station of Mussoorie is located around 35 km from Dehradun and 280 km from Delhi.
If you’re looking to get away from Delhi, we suggest that you jet off to one of these 10 amazing places that are ideal for a 2-day trip. This weekend could be the perfect time to take a quick break. Visit a new place away from routine and come back all charged up for days to come.
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