Are you tired of your 9-to-5 job? Are you looking for a break that will turn your weekend into a mini-vacation? If so, we’ve compiled a list of the top 25 weekend getaways from Delhi that are ideal for getting away from the hustle and bustle of city life while also providing a much-needed break from the NCR’s poor air quality. Forget about long commutes and crowded destinations. Simply go to one of these places to visit near Delhi and enjoy your much-anticipated weekend break.
1. Shimla: The Land Of The Hills
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Within 400 kilometres of Delhi, a short trip to Shimla is one of the best ways to spend your weekend. Come summer, you won’t regret succumbing to the allure of one of Himachal Pradesh’s best hill stations. Shimla, the state capital, is often referred to as the “Queen of Hill Stations.” The lovely place, which was once the British summer capital during their reign, still has a colonial feel to it. Nonetheless, it is unrivalled in terms of popularity among honeymooning couples and family vacationers.
Distance From Delhi: 340-350 kms
Travel Time: 8-9 hours
Best Time to Visit: Winters
2. Jaipur: The Pink City
Image Source: Joao Eduardo Figueiredo (Flickr)
Jaipur is a popular tourist destination in Rajasthan and is part of the Golden Triangle Tour, which also includes Agra and New Delhi. The ‘Pink City’ fascinates by offering wonderful sightseeing opportunities and is a wonderful weekend getaway from Delhi. Visiting Jaipur is like experiencing some of the most magical moments from a fairy tale. Furthermore, Jaipur’s Walled City may soon be designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The forts and palaces offer glimpses of the region’s former royalty’s magnificence and grandeur. Aside from that, sampling Rajasthani delicacies is a plus. Mewa Kachori, Dal Bati Churma, Ghewar, Mirchi Bada, Besan ke Gatte, and other dishes are delicious.
Distance From Delhi: 250-260 kms
Travel Time: 5-6 Hrs
Best Time to Visit: November to February
3. Nainital: Beauty To The Eyes
Image Source: Siddhartha Das (Flickr)
Nainital is named after the popular Naini Lake, which is located at an elevation of 1938 metres above sea level. The place is considered one of Uttarakhand’s most popular hill stations, and it is breathtakingly beautiful. The hill town has been blessed with natural wonders, attracting a large number of family vacationers and honeymooners. Nainital is, without a doubt, an excellent choice for a relaxing weekend getaway in India.
Nainital, also known as Lake Paradise, is home to a variety of tourist attractions. Make a reservation for a leisurely stroll down Mall Road in the evening. Also, the aerial ropeway that connects Mallital and Snow Point should be tried. Enjoy hiking or rock climbing here, as well as shopping at the Tibetan market.
Distance From Delhi: 330-340 kms
Travel Time: 6-7 Hrs
Best Time to Visit: July to February
4. Mussoorie: A Mystic Mountain Paradise
Image Source: Curious Eagle (Flickr)
Mussoorie is a scenic hill station with stunning landscapes, lakes, and mountains, and is one of Uttarakhand’s most romantic weekend getaways. Sightseeing, parasailing, and cable car rides, among other activities, are available during your visit to Mussoorie.
Distance From Delhi: 300 km
Travel Time: 7 hours
Best Time to Visit: July to February
5. Kasauli: Pastoral Paradise
Source: Vikram Singh (Flickr)
Kasauli, a Colonial hill station founded by the British in 1842, is blessed with abundant lush greenery, natural beauty, pleasant weather, and tranquilly. Shimla is only 77 kilometres away from this charming hill town. Kasauli is a great weekend getaway spot near Delhi, with plenty of flora and fauna. Monkey Point is the best place to go if you want to treat your eyes to the mesmerising views of the surroundings.
In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through the Mall and go shopping for interesting trinkets. Kasauli is also a fantastic hill station near Delhi for a relaxing and laid-back vacation away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visit Sunset Point for unforgettable sunset views.
Distance From Delhi: 280-290 kms
Travel Time: 6-7 Hrs
Best Time to Visit: Anytime
6. Jim Corbett National Park: The Oldest National Park
Source: Wikimedia Commons
When it comes to the best weekend getaways from Delhi, Corbett is right at the top of the list. Jim Corbett National Park is India’s oldest and best national park, with a diverse range of flora and fauna. In fact, the national park was established in the year 1936. It is one of the few wildlife reserves in the country with a sizable population of Bengal tigers.
The Jim Corbett National Park offers wildlife safaris twice a day, in the morning and afternoon. In the summer and winter, however, the timing varies. Choose between Jeep Safari and Elephant Safari as your favourite.
Distance From Delhi: 279 km
Travel Time: 6 hours 4 min
Best Time to Visit: The Jhirna and Sonanadi zones are open to visitors all year. Dhikala and Durga Devi Zones, on the other hand, are open from mid-November to mid-June. From October to June, visitors can visit the Birjani Zone.
7. Agra: ‘City of the Taj’
The Mughal City of Agra, located on the banks of the Yamuna River in Uttar Pradesh, is one of the most popular weekend getaways from Delhi, being only 300 kilometres away. In fact, the ‘City of the Taj’ provides a glimpse into Mughal history’s rich and glorious past.
Agra, which attracts visitors from all over the world, has a number of architectural marvels worth seeing. The city is also mentioned as Agraban, a Mathura forest, in the great Hindu epic Mahabharata. Dal Moth and Petha are two specialities that you should definitely try while shopping in Agra’s local markets.
Distance From Delhi: 230-240 kms
Travel Time: 4-5 Hours
Best Time to Visit: October to March
8. Auli: Ski Paradise
Source: Pixabay
This is the best place to visit if you want to get away from Delhi for an extended weekend. This picturesque hill station in Uttarakhand is a popular honeymoon destination for newlyweds. During a trip to Auli, the main attractions are the stunning natural views and ski resorts.
You have the option of staying in Auli or in Joshimath, which is more affordable. A cable car connects Auli and Joshimath. One of the most popular activities in Auli is taking a cable car ride. Then there are a few short and easy treks that begin in Auli, as well as a few longer treks that adventurers can take.
Distance From Delhi: 500 kms
Travel Time: 13-14 Hrs
Best Time to Visit: Winters
9. Mathura and Vrindavan: Home To Lord Krishna
Source: PixaBay
Mathura and Vrindavan, India’s twin cities, are among the most visited religious destinations in the country. Lord Krishna was born in Mathura, but he spent his childhood in Vrindavan. As a result, devotees of the Lord flock to the towns in large numbers throughout the year. Within 200 kilometres of Delhi, it is an ideal weekend getaway for peaceful vacations in serenity. Mathura and Vrindavan, with their 3000-year-old civilization and culture, speak volumes about Goddess Radha and Lord Krishna.
During the Holi and Janmashtami festivals, popular tourist destinations near Delhi come alive with spiritual activities. Manifest your love for Lord Krishna and Goddess Radha. Many large and small temples in the town offer spiritual enlightenment.
Distance From Delhi: 180-200 kms
Travel Time: 3 – 4 hours
Best Time to Visit: October to March
10. Ranthambore: Royal Hunting Ground
Image Source: Simon and Karen Spavin (Flickr)
One of the best weekend getaways near Delhi is Ranthambore in Rajasthan. During a tour to Ranthambore, go on a tiger safari in the Ranthambore National Park, learn about local arts and crafts, and visit nearby forts with family and friends.
Distance From Delhi: 400-420 kms
Travel Time: 8-10 Hrs
Best Time to Visit: October to March
11. Bharatpur: Birdwatching
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Bharatpur, a popular weekend getaway for families near Delhi, is known for the Keoladeo Ghana National Park. It is a popular spot for photography, bird watching, and family tours near Delhi, and was previously known as the Bharatpur bird sanctuary in Rajasthan.
It is a Ramsar site in India, as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, because of its vast biodiversity and ecological significance, as well as its strategic location as a staging ground for migratory birds before they head to other breeding grounds in Eurasia. This national park is home to a wide variety of reptiles and mammals, including foxes, hyenas, deers, and nilgais, in addition to birds.
Distance From Delhi: 200-220 kms
Travel Time: 4-5 Hrs
Best Time to Visit: November to February
12. Lansdowne: Abode of Clouds
Image Source: Subhankar Das (Flickr)
Lansdowne, an awe-inspiring hill station in Uttarakhand, is a destination that hasn’t seen a lot of tourist traffic. As a result, the destination has an unspoiled natural beauty. The charismatic hill town in close proximity to Delhi, once the British summer hill resort, is ideal for a weekend getaway due to its tranquil environment and pleasant weather.
The hill town is surrounded by thick pine and oak jungles at an elevation of 1700 metres above sea level. The location is ideal for those seeking laid-back and relaxing holidays in India because it is less crowded and peaceful. Popular activities include trekking, bird watching at the Kalagarh Wildlife Sanctuary, and boating.
Distance From Delhi: 280-290 kms
Travel Time: 7-8 Hrs
Best Time to Visit: July to February
13. Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj: The ‘Little Lhasa’
Image Source: Pixahive
Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj, also known as ‘Little Lhasa’ because of its large Tibetan population, is the seat of His Holiness, the 14th Dalai Lama. This lovely place, named after Donald McLeod, the then Lieutenant-Governor of Punjab, is now the heart of Tibetan culture and Buddhism.
This is the place to go if you want to relax and enjoy a peaceful vacation. Many international visitors come to the hill town each year to practise yoga or meditation, take Buddhist courses, and go trekking. Furthermore, tourists regard the destination as one of the best tourist destinations within 500 kilometres of Delhi.
Distance From Delhi: 480-500 kms
Travel Time: 12-13 Hrs
Best Time to Visit: All Seasons
14. Chail: Maharaja’s Retreat
Source: Aleksandr Zykov (Flickr)
Chail is a serene hill town in Himachal Pradesh that sits at an elevation of 2250 metres above sea level, making it one of the best weekend getaways from Delhi. When Bhupinder Singh, Maharaja of Patiala, was expelled from Shimla during the British Raj, he chose Chail as his summer retreat. As a result, he made sure Chail was identical to Shimla in every way.
Aside from the pleasant weather, the lush green surroundings, thick deodar trees, and peaceful ambiance add to the appeal of this location. A day trip to Kufri, one of Delhi’s most popular hill stations, can also be arranged. The Golden Triangle Tour of Himachal Pradesh includes Chail, Shimla, and Kufri.
Distance From Delhi: 330-340 kms
Travel Time: 10-12 Hrs
Best Time to Visit: July to March
15. Rishikesh: ‘Yoga Capital of the World’
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Rishikesh, a small hill town in Uttarakhand, is known as the ‘Yoga Capital of the World.’ Rishikesh is known for River Rafting and Bungee Jumping, making it a haven for adventure seekers. The Beatles’ visit to the town put it on the map of the world. A weekend getaway to the serene town would include spirituality, natural goodness, and adventure, among other things.
Rishikesh, located in the Himalayan foothills and adjacent to the holy Ganga River, is home to a number of ashrams. Staying at these ashrams, in fact, teaches us how to live a simple and fulfilling life free of all unnecessary comforts. Trekking, river rafting, cliff-hanging, kayaking, rappelling, and camping are all options for those seeking adventure.
Distance From Delhi: 260-270 km
Travel Time: 6-7 hours
Best Time to Visit: September to April
16. Mukteshwar
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
Mukteshwar, at an elevation of 2285 metres above sea level, is one of the best weekend getaways from Delhi. The location is named after the 350-year-old Mukteshwar Dham, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is surrounded by coniferous forests and fruit orchards. The sacred place of worship is located at a high elevation and provides breathtaking views.
The lovely hill town is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a relaxing vacation spot. Mukteshwar can be visited at any time of year due to its mesmerising scenery, lush ambience, and pleasant weather. The beauty of Chauthi ki Jali is worth seeing, while Sonapani provides more information about Kumaoni culture. Also, don’t forget to pay respects at Ghorakhal.
Distance From Delhi: 380-400 kms
Travel Time: 10-11 Hrs
Best Time to Visit: July to February
17. Ranikhet: ‘Queen’s Meadow’
Source: Parth Joshi (Flickr)
Ranikhet is blessed with abundant natural beauty. The hill station, which is 1829 metres above sea level, is one of the great weekend getaways from Delhi, especially if you want to avoid the scorching heat. According to legend, Queen Padmini was so enamoured of Ranikhet that King Sukhdev had to construct a palace to impress her. After all, the destination has something to offer everyone in terms of a memorable vacation in India. Exotic wildlife, delicate species of flora, cool mountain breezes, lush green forests, and everything else that can soothe weary souls abounds in the area. Above all, the Himalayan views are unrivalled.
Distance From Delhi: 390-400 kms
Travel Time: 11-12 Hrs
Best Time to Visit: July to Mid March
18. Nahan
Source: Wikimedia Commons
There are several places to visit in Nahan that will take your breath away, especially if you are looking for tranquilly. It is located in the midst of Himachal Pradesh’s abundant green hills. Away from the city’s hustle and bustle, this small town has a picturesque beauty that will captivate you. It is located on the lofty Shiwalik Hills, which are surrounded by breathtaking scenery and bring you closer to nature. Nahan is known for its scenic beauty as well as the legends and stories associated with it, which will pique the interest of history buffs.
Distance From Delhi: 260-270 kms
Travel Time: 7-8 hrs
Best Time to Visit: Late September to Mid-March
19. Neemrana
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Neemrana, a laid-back and rustic destination in Alwar, Rajasthan, is an ancient historical town. As a result, the location provides a relaxing weekend getaway. In fact, a trip to Siliserh Lake would be fantastic. You can also go on a wildlife safari at the nearby Sariska National Park.
Distance From Delhi: 128 km
Travel Time: 2-3 Hrs
Best Time to Visit: October to March
20. Sohna
This charming city in Haryana is a popular detour for Delhiites looking for a nearby tourist destination. The area is known for the tranquil lakes, hot springs, and fort ruins that can be found nearby. Damdama Lake or Sohna Lake are ideal spots for chilling and unwinding while surrounded by natural beauty.
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
Distance From Delhi: 60-70 km
Travel Time: 1.5 – 2 hours
Best Time to Visit: September to February
21. Dehradun
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Dehradun is a stunning hill station in Uttarakhand, nestled in the Doon Valley. This destination, just a few hours’ drive from Delhi, brings you closer to the Himalayan Garhwal Ranges and offers unparalleled scenic beauty.
Distance From Delhi: Around 250 kms
Travel Time: 5-6 hours
Best Time to Visit: July to February
22. Kasar Devi
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Source: Christian Lanciai (flickr)
Kasar Devi is a village in Uttarakhand near Almora. Kasar Devi temple, a Devi temple dedicated to Kasar Devi, after whom the place is also named, is well-known. The temple structure dates to the 2nd century CE. In the 1890s, Swami Vivekananda, as well as a slew of western seekers, including Sunyata Baba Alfred Sorensen and Lama Anagarika Govinda, paid a visit to Kasar Devi. Crank’s Ridge, just outside the village, was a popular destination during the Hippie movement of the 1960s and 1970s, and it continues to attract domestic and international trekkers and tourists. On Kartik Poornima (November–December), the temple hosts the annual “Kasar Devi Fair.”
Distance From Delhi: 380-400 kms
Travel Time: 11-12 Hrs
Best Time to Visit: June to March
23. Chakrata
Image Credits: Jitendra Singh (Flickr)
The beautiful hill station of Chakrata sits at an elevation of 2,118 metres above sea level, surrounded by the sun-kissed Himalayan ranges. This secluded hilly town, nestled in the Dehradun district, is one of the best weekend getaways from Delhi for backpackers. Chakrata, which is surrounded by coniferous forests and is far removed from the hustle and bustle of city life, is a loner’s paradise. Dehradun, Uttarakhand’s capital, is only 90 kilometres away.
Distance From Delhi: 320-330 kms
Travel Time: 8-9 hrs
Best Time to Visit: July to March
24. Orchha
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Orchha is a historical town in Madhya Pradesh known for its grand palaces and intricately carved temples. It is located on the banks of the Betwa River. It is known as the “City of Palaces” because of the classic mural paintings, frescos, and Chhatris (cenotaphs) that were built to honour the Bundela rulers. Tourists from all over the world are enchanted by Orchha’s old-world charm.
The Ram Raja Temple (the only place where Lord Ram is worshipped as both a God and a king), the Laxmi Narayan Temple (known for its unique architecture that is a mix of a fort and a temple), and the Jahangir Mahal are all major attractions in Orchha.
Distance From Delhi: Around 500 kms
Travel Time: 9-10 hrs
Best Time to Visit: October to March
25. Sariska Tiger Reserve
Image Source: Rupankar Mahanta (Flickr)
Sariska Tiger Reserve is a tiger reserve in Rajasthan’s Alwar district. It is made up of scrub-thorn arid forests, dry deciduous forests, grasslands, and rocky hills and covers an area of 881 km2 (340 sq mi). This area was once a hunting preserve for the state of Alwar before being designated as a wildlife sanctuary in 1958. In 1978, it was designated as a tiger reserve, becoming part of India’s Project Tiger. With a total area of about 273.8 km2, the wildlife sanctuary was designated as a national park in 1982. (105.7 sq mi). It is the world’s first tiger reserve that has successfully relocated tigers. In the Northern Aravalli leopard and wildlife corridor, it is an important biodiversity area making it one of the popular weekend getaways from Delhi.
Distance From Delhi: 210-220 kms
Travel Time: 5-6 hrs
Best Time to Visit: October to February
26. Pangot
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Image Credits: Soumendu Das (Flickr)
Pangot is a village surrounded by thick forests, quiet, streams, and walking trails, only 17 kilometres from Nainital. The 350 or so bird species that call these woods home draw bird watchers from all over the world. Pangot, unlike its famous cousin, Nainital, offers a much more relaxing vacation with only nature as its main attraction.
India is known around the world for its diverse flora and fauna. Pangot is a lovely hamlet in Uttarakhand, located just 15 kilometres from Nainital, the “city of lakes.” It’s as if you’ve walked into a remote Himalayan village when you enter Pangot. According to Jungle Lore Birding Lodge, there are over 250 species of birds in and around this birdwatchers’ paradise.
Distance From Delhi: 330-340 kms
Travel Time: 8 -9 hrs
Best Time to Visit: July to February
27. Parwanoo
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Due to its proximity to Chandigarh, Parwanoo is one of the most popular getaways. It is surrounded by lush greenery, sprawling orchards, and the scenic Shivalik hills. Parwanoo can easily be dubbed one of the best tourist destinations in Himachal Pradesh, with its large fruit processing units, scenic trekking trails, numerous religious centres, and hill resorts.
Distance From Delhi: 270-280 kms
Travel Time: 6-7 hrs
Best Time to Visit: June to March
28. Mandawa
Source: Flickr
Mandawa is a charming little town in Rajasthan’s Jhunjhunu district, famous for its Mandawa Fort. The town, which is also known as the Open Art Gallery, is full of paved archways and magnificent havelis and fortresses. It is situated in the Shekhawati region and is dotted with palaces and magnificent mansions (havelis). The atmosphere and vibe of the location reflect the social and cultural environment of the time period. Mandawa, a beautiful city suitably located in the heart of the Shekhawati region and often referred to as an open art gallery, is a good getaway for people interested in art and culture.
Distance From Delhi: 250-260 kms
Travel Time: 6-7 hrs
Best Time to Visit: October to March
29. Mashobra
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Mashobra is a quaint little hill retreat located in the Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh, nestled in the lap of the Himalayas at an altitude of 2246 m. It ranks among the most idyllic destinations to spend some peaceful time soaking in the tranquil environs of Mother Nature, with its alluring beauty peppered with gurgling streams, captivating fruit orchards, and lush oak forests. The beautiful hill town is a wonderful destination for history buffs, spiritual travellers, and culture seekers alike. Those seeking adventure will find that the hills of Mashobra have plenty to offer to satisfy their adrenaline cravings.
Distance From Delhi: 350-360 kms
Travel Time: 8-9 hrs
Best Time to Visit: June to March
30. Khirsu
Image Source – Joe Athialy (Flickr)
If you’re looking for a relaxing and unique Himalayan vacation, Khirsu is the place to go. The hamlet is undiscovered and surrounded by lush forests and orchards, providing a serene setting. The picturesque hill station in the Pauri Garhwal district offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, including the Panchachuli, Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot, and Trishul peaks. Khirsu, perched at 1,700 metres, is surrounded by dense pine and deodar forests, providing excellent opportunities for nature walks and hikes. The hamlet is surrounded by apple orchards and wildflowers of all kinds. The village is also an agricultural hub, with picturesque terrace farms surrounding it.
Distance From Delhi: 380-400 kms
Travel Time: 8 -9 hrs
Best Time to Visit: June to March
While India’s capital entices with a variety of surprises, there are also a number of weekend getaways from Delhi. At the locations listed below, you can escape the scorching heat and bask in the bliss. These 21 most famous weekend getaways from Delhi cater to the needs of intrepid travellers with limited time. They also cater to a wide range of tastes. There are numerous options to explore, ranging from a pilgrimage to adventure, heritage sites to wildlife. So don’t waste your weekend; pack your belongings and follow your wandering spirit.