Best Weekend Getaways from Delhi

We guess no one can deny the fact that living in Delhi has various perks and benefits but sometimes the hustle and bustle of city life can often leave you frustrated and you start looking for a refreshing escape. You are not alone who feels like this, it happens with almost everyone. One of the perks of living in Delhi is that it is strategically located near some of the breathtaking, picturesque, and culturally rich destinations in India. Because of its well-connected and diverse travelling option from all over the world makes Delhi a perfect destination for everyone who are looking for weekend getaways near Delhi with just a few hours of travelling time. You can go trekking in the serene hills of Himachal, walking leisurely in the historical forts of Rajasthan or diving into the devotion in Rishikesh. There are plenty of options available in front of you but for many of us finding a place is not the challenge but the challenge is to decide that one place to visit first. So, in this guide we will take you through ten best weekend getaways from Delhi and each of them will offer you a unique experience, refresh your soul and provide you some unforgettable memories.

1. Agra, Uttar Pradesh

Agra is well known for the monument Taj Mahal but beyond the Taj Mahal you can also visit the Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site and Mehtab Bagh gardens which is perfectly aligned with the Taj Mahal across the Yamuna River, perfect for watching the sunset. Agra is also famous for its local markets and street food, especially the sweet dish petha. To know more about history, you should move to Fatehpur Sikri city, which has numerous palaces and courtyards. The Tomb of Akbar in Sikandra is another architectural wonder of the Mughal era. Shopping lovers can visit Sadar Bazaar and Kinari Bazaar for local handicrafts, leather goods and marble inlay work. Agra is also known for its luxury heritage hotels that offer a royal stay. For a quick holiday, Same Day Agra Tour Package is also best option.

Delhi to Agra Distance: 243 km
Travel Time: Approx. 4 hours via Yamuna Expressway

2. Jaipur City Tour

Jaipur also known as "the Pink City" is a perfect blend of rich history with modernity. Jaipur Sightseeing Tour includes visit to Amer Fort and go back in time to the Rajput era or the City Palace where the royal family still resides. Hawa Mahal is great for a photo shoot. Jaipur's market is full of traditional textiles, jewelry and handicrafts. For a unique experience take an elephant ride to the top of Amer Fort or enjoy a traditional Rajasthani meal at Chokhi Dhani, a village themed resort that has cultural performances and authentic food. Jantar Mantar, the astronomical observatory with the world’s largest stone sundial, is a must visit. Jaipur’s festivals like Jaipur Literature Festival and Teej Festival make it a year round destination.

Delhi to Jaipur Distance: 288 km
Travel Time: Approx. 5 hours via NE 4

3. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

Rishikesh is called the Yoga Capital of the World and is a peaceful retreat on the banks of the Ganges. Do a yoga session, meditate at the ashrams or attend the evening Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat. Go for the white water rafting in the Ganga or bungee jumping from India’s highest platform. Don’t miss visiting the iconic Laxman Jhula and Ram Jhula, suspension bridges that offer great views and are steeped in mythology. The Beatles Ashram where the world famous band stayed and composed many songs is now an interesting graffiti filled site. You should go camping on the riverbanks or trekking to the nearby Neer Garh Waterfall. Rishikesh also hosts the International Yoga Festival every year where yogis from all over the world come.

Delhi to Rishikesh Distance: 252 km
Travel Time: Approx. 5 hours via NH 334

4. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

Shimla, the Queen of Hills, is a Delhiite’s favourite weekend getaway. Walk along the Mall Road, visit the historic Viceregal Lodge or take a toy train ride from Kalka to Shimla. Kufri is just a short drive from Shimla and perfect for skiing in winter. The local cuisine, including Himachali dishes like chana madra and sidu will tantalise your taste buds. Shimla’s heritage walk is a fascinating journey through British era buildings like Gaiety Theatre and Christ Church. Visit the Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary for bird watching and spot rare species of flora and fauna. Jakhoo Temple on Jakhoo Hill offers panoramic views and is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Every Year Shimla has events like the International Summer Festival featuring music, dance and crafts.

Delhi to Rishikesh Distance: 353 km
Travel Time: Approx. 7 hours via NH 5

Shimla Travel Guide: Places to visit, Things to do, best time to visit

5. Nainital, Uttarakhand

Nainital is a beautiful hill station situated around a lake. Do the boating in Naini Lake, cable car ride to Snow View Point for stunning views and take blessings in Naina Devi Temple. The local Markets are perfect for shopping local handicrafts and woollens. If you are a nature lover, Nearby attractions like Nainital Zoo and Jim Corbett National Park will be a perfect destination. Don’t miss Tiffin Top, a popular viewpoint for views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Governor’s House with its big gardens and Gothic architecture is another famous attraction. For adventure lovers trekking and horse riding are popular in the surrounding hills. Nainital also hosts Nanda Devi Fair, a big cultural event where local deities are celebrated with great enthusiasm and traditional performances. Enjoy monsoon delights with wildlife adventure in Jim Corbett National Park. Check out Nainital and Jim Corbett Weekend Tour Package.

Delhi to Rishikesh Distance: 316 km
Travel Time: Approx. 7 hours via NH 9

6. Lansdowne, Uttarakhand

Lansdowne is a peaceful and less crowded hill station surrounded by dense oak and pine forests. It has beautiful trekking trails, bird watching and panoramic views from Tip-in-Top. Visit the War Memorial and St. John’s Church to learn about the town’s colonial past and take a boat ride at a serene Bhulla Tal Lake. Lansdowne is also home to the Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple located in thick forests as well as the Garhwali Mess, one of the oldest and well maintained army mess in the region. To Know about the culture and tradition you can attend local festivals like Sharadotsav. Lansdowne’s calm and unspoiled environment makes it an ideal destination for yoga and meditation between a perfect blend of nature and spirituality.

Delhi to Rishikesh Distance: 281 km
Travel Time: Approx. 6.5 hours via NH 534

7. Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Manali is a haven for adventure and nature enthusiasts situated between valleys, snow mountains and Beas river. Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley and Hadimba Temple are some of the popular tourist places. If you want to have some adventure go skiing, paragliding or bungee jumping or just relax and soak in the natural beauty of Manali. Don’t miss Old Manali, it is famous for its cafes and lively atmosphere. To rejuvenate yourself visit Vashisht Hot Springs which are known for their therapeutic properties or trek to Jogini Waterfalls. Manali Sanctuary is a haven for wildlife lovers. Manali’s local markets especially Mall Road is perfect for shopping for Himachal handicrafts, woolen clothes and souvenirs. The town also hosts several cultural festivals like the 5 days National Winter Carnival. Book tempo traveller for Delhi to Manali Group Tour.

Delhi to Rishikesh Distance: 502 km
Travel Time: Approximately 10.5 hours via NH 44

8. Alwar, Rajasthan

Alwar is a hidden gem in Rajasthan that is full of history, architecture and natural beauty. Visit the majestic Bala Quila Fort and the beautiful City Palace as well as Sariska Tiger Reserve to see Bengal tigers, leopards and varieties of birds. Alwar’s lakes like Siliserh Lake are perfect for boating and picnics. This town is popular for the elegant cenotaph of Moosi Maharani ki Chhatri and India's most haunted fort, Bhangarh Fort, which is famous for its horror stories and historic ruins. Alwar is also famous for its traditional sweet, Alwar ka mawa, which is a must try for foodies. The city’s museums like the Government Museum will give you a glimpse of its historical and cultural heritage.

Delhi to Rishikesh Distance: 183 km
Travel Time: Approximately 3.5 hours via NE 4

9. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand

Mussoorie the Queen of Hills has the most beautiful views of the Doon Valley and Shivalik ranges. Its colonial charm with landmarks like Mussoorie Christ Church and historic Savoy Hotel attracts many tourists on the weekends. Take a walk along the Camel’s Back Road, shop at the Mall Road, ride a cable car to Gun Hill for the panoramic views and visit the Kempty Falls and Cloud’s End for relaxing your mind and taking some fresh air. Company Garden is a well maintained park with beautiful flowers, artificial waterfalls and a mini lake for boating, from there just a short trek away Jharipani Falls is a peaceful haven in nature. Mussoorie also has cultural events and festivals of local art, music and food like Mussoorie Winterline Carnival.

Delhi to Rishikesh Distance: 287 km
Travel Time: Approx 7 hours via Delhi - Panipat Expressway

Also Read: How to plan short trip to Haridwar Rishikesh and Dehradun from Delhi

10. Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh

Dharamshala is a home of spiritual leader Dalai Lama and the Tibetan exiles. The town set against the Dhauladhar range is famous for its monasteries, meditation centers and the Tibetan market. Visit the Namgyal Monastery, the peaceful Dal Lake and the beautiful Bhagsu Waterfall. Dharamshala’s peaceful environment along with the nearby tea gardens of Kangra Valley makes it a perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visit the Tibetan Museum to learn about Tibetan history and culture or attend a teaching by the Dalai Lama. For adventure seekers the Triund trek offers breathtaking views and a chance to camp under the stars. Dharamshala also hosts the Dharamshala International Film Festival which attracts filmmakers and cinephiles from all over the world. It is one of the Best Places to Visit in India in July.

Delhi to Rishikesh Distance: 470 km
Travel Time: Approx. 10 hours via NH 44

Tempo Traveller Booking- For Best Road Trips in India

Weekends are more fun when planned with friends, family or special ones. To enhance convenience of travelling, you can go with Tempo Traveller Booking which comes in varied seating capacity and make your task easier to choose as per your group size. Tempo traveller seating capacity vary from 9 seats to 26 seats and in different variants of luxury, standard and Maharaja Tempo Traveller.

Conclusion

These weekend getaways from Delhi are the perfect cure for the city life. Each destination from Agra and Jaipur’s historical grandeur to Rishikesh and Lansdowne’s serenity offers a different experience for different interests and tastes. Whether you are an adventure junkie looking to tackle the rapids in Rishikesh, a history buff wanting to soak in Mughal and Rajput architecture of Agra and Jaipur or just need a peaceful retreat in Shimla and Nainital’s hills, there is a getaway that will rejuvenate your mind and soul. The culture, food and history of these places ensures that every trip is not just a break but an experience. So, pack your bags, make your group and hit the road to discover wonders just a few hours from Delhi. Book tempo traveller 12 seater for a perfect weekend escape awaited.

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