Monday blues! We all have them, don’t we!
Sulking our way through a hectic week and counting days till Friday. So why spend the much awaited weekend cocooned in the house when there’s so much to explore around?
The best part about living in a city like Delhi is that you are spoilt for choice when it comes to planning a short weekend getaway. From picturesque hill-stations to plains grounded in culture and heritage, Delhi offers an astonishing range of rejuvenating getaways to help you escape the urban chaos. Here are some of the exciting trips from Delhi to satisfy your wanderlust.
28 Best Weekend Getaways From Delhi Within 300 km – 400kms
- Agra (230 km away)
- Jaipur(280 km away)
- Lansdowne(270 km away)
- Nainital(300 km away)
- Neemrana(120 km away)
- Jim Corbett(240 km away)
- Kasauli(290 km away)
- Rishikesh(240 km away)
- Mussoorie (287 km away)
- Damdama Lake (63 km away)
- Manesar (57 km away)
- Tattapani (365 km away)
- Nahan (249 km away)
- Kufri (357 km away)
- Parwanoo (265 km away)
- Mashobra (353 km away)
- Shoghi (330 km away)
- Chail (336 km away)
- Shimla (342 km away)
- Dehradun (254 km away)
- Bhimtal (347 km away)
- Rajaji National Park (242 km away)
- Haridwar (220 km away)
- Bhangarh (283 km away)
- Ranikhet (388 km away)
- Pangot (341 km away)
- Mandawa (258 km away)
- Kuchesar (130 km away)
1. Agra (230 kms Away)
India’s ‘City of Love’ and home to the architectural masterpiece The Taj Mahal, is probably the first thing that comes to your mind while planning a short trip from Delhi. Being one of the oldest cities of the country and former capital of Mughal Empire, Agra exudes a historic old world charm and is dotted by several landmarks and monuments from the bygone era, still echoing the tales of past. This unique aspect of the city draws a large crowd from across the world all year round. History fanatics and architecture aficionados can have a ball in Agra with the sheer expanse of the Mughal art and culture on display.
Apart from its monuments, the city also has some exciting stuff for foodies – including the famous ‘Agra Petha’ and flavorful chaat and Lassi.
Places to Visit: While Shah Jahan’s memorial for his wife, the pristine white marbled Taj Mahal is the most striking place of the city, reeling in tourists from across the world. Agra is also blessed with umpteen mausoleums, forts and palaces.
Stroll through the courtyards of the palatial Agra Fort. Built with red-sandstone, this marble fortress’ opulent architecture, expansive gardens and maze of several other structures have a magnetic pull over visitors. A must–visit site indeed! On your visit, also take a quick tour of the nearby city of Fatehpur Sikri for its cultural richness.
Sikandra Fort, Itmad-ud- Daula, Jahangir’s Palace, Dayal Bagh and Akbar’s Mausoleum are some of the places you must check out during your visit.
2. Jaipur(280 km away)
With splendid fortresses, magnificent palaces, and architecturally brilliant havelis, the ‘Pink City’ is sought after by connoisseurs of history and architecture. Experience the jolt of this rich city to get a peek into the lives of India’s royal families and their legacy.
Places to Visit: Take an elephant ride to explore Amer Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its blend of Rajput and Hindu style of architecture and mixture of Hindu and Muslim style of ornamentation. Through meandering pathways and hidden passages, hike up to the adjoining Jaigarh Fort to check out its vast cannon foundry and then take a cab ride to explore the sprawling fortress of Nahargarh.
Enter the main city to enjoy the view of Jal Mahal resting on the waters of Mansarovar as a flock pigeons scale the sky making for a sight to behold. If you enjoy a knowledge-rich walk through museums, Albert Hall Museum is a must-visit. Enjoy a tryst with nature at the lush green lawns and gardens of Kanak Ghaati and Vrindavan Gardens. Unravel the hidden passages of the City Palace, study the stars at Jantar Mantar and treat yourself to the delectable traditional Rajasthani thali at Chokhi Dhani.
Read more about Jaipur here.
3. Lansdowne(270 km away)
Seeking a quiet getaway from Delhi? Lansdowne is the place to be.
This calm town in Uttrakhand is home to some of the most breathtaking and picturesque views. With its salubrious weather and pristine surroundings, Lansdowne is the perfect place to unwind in the lap of nature. But that is not all that it offers!
Places to Visit: If history fused with art is your fix, visit the Darwan Singh Regimental Museum in Lansdowne. Sprawled over two-floor units, the museum boasts of an impressive collection of arms, uniforms, rare photographs of army generals and some certificates and details about the origin and achievements of Garhwal Rifles. To get in touch with spirituality, pay a visit to St. John’s Church and Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple in town. For thrill and adventure seekers, a hike or short trek up the ‘Tip n Top’ hill-point and Bhim Pakora will be an exhilarating experience.
More: Places to visit in Lansdowne – Unexplored Haven in the Himalayas
4. Nainital(300 km away)
Nestled in Kumaon Hills, Nainital is a hill station boasting the unique, eye-shaped Naini Lake. Famously called the ‘City of Lakes’, this beautiful town offers a tranquil break from your monotonous routine.
Places to Visit: The city offers a range of activities for you to explore. If you have an adventurous streak, there are several hiking trails and trekking points in and around it. Nainital- Betalghat Trek, Nainital- Kilbury Trek and Snow View Trek are some of the popular hiking trails.
Make sure you 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. You can also enjoy boating and yachting with your friends or partner.
5. Neemrana(120 km away)
Nestled amidst greenery and enriched with the grandeur of history, Neemrana is undoubtedly the best place near Delhi for one day trip.
And the best part? It’s the nearest holiday destination from Delhi and is just a 2-hour drive away.
Places to Visit: Take a peek into India’s historic and royal past at the 15th century Neemrana Fort Palace. Take a camel ride around the fortress to explore the lush green surroundings. Make sure you try the zip-lining in the Fort Centre.
Neemrana Baoli is another must visit the site. Situated amid a vast expanse of arid desert sands dotted by sparse vegetation and leafless trees, this 16th-century step-well was once a means of water storage for. Now devoid of water, its stands flanked by Aravalis in Neemrana, its corridors and criss-cross step pattern drawing large crowds of tourists and history buffs.
Due to Neemrana’s Japanese Zone, there are many restaurants that serve authentic Japanese cuisine. Treat yourself to scrumptious sushi and bao during your visit. Bon appetit!
6. Jim Corbett(240 km away)
Your wildest adventure lies very close to the Capital.
Places to Visit: Abundant in rich flora and fauna, this ‘Paradise of Tigers’ is your perfect escape into the wild. Enjoy a thrilling rendezvous with nature and wildlife at Jim Corbett National Park. Take a jeep safari to get a closer look of the wildlife. However, taking an Elephant safari makes for a much surreal experience as you find yourself become a part of your surroundings.
Also visit the nearby Dhangarhi Museum, Corbett Waterfall and Garija Temple to make the most of your trip.
Explore Hotels near Jim Corbett
7. Kasauli(290 km away)
Surrounded by thick foliage of oak, chestnut and pine trees, this quaint hill station between Shimla and Kalka is a perfect respite from your life in the city. The serene environment and enchanting calmness that it provides are enough to rejuvenate you.
Places to Visit: Kasauli offers a breathtaking view from its Sunset Point. Trek your way to the famous Monkey Point to visit the Hanuman Temple that holds a huge religious significance. Indulge in a nature walk along Gilbert Trail while clouds of mist float over the path.
Lover’s Lane, Mall Road and Christ Anglican Church are other key places you must visit while in town.
8. Rishikesh(240 km away)
Lying in the foothills of Himalayas is the hub of temples, popular cafes, yoga ashrams and adventure sports- Rishikesh.
Awaken the adventurer in you and indulge in sports like river rafting, trekking and giant wheeling. Get your adrenaline rush and make an experience of a lifetime by bungee jumping.
If you seek spirituality, make your way to the yoga ashrams in the town. There is nothing like meditating in the open air as the sound of river lulls you.
Make sure to stop by the Beatles Ashram in Rishikesh. Made famous by the eponymous English band, the ashram premises have a lush growth of green patched and beautiful artwork. You know this hippie town is worth it when The Beatles visited here often too!
9. Mussoorie (287 km away)
Mussoorie is one of the most popular hill stations in Uttarakhand and also one of the best weekend getaways from Delhi. It was founded by a British official in 1820 who along with other Britishers used to use this destination as a summer getaway. The pleasant weather lures hundreds of tourists to this tranquil and scenic hill station. Apart from being a hub for nature-loving, honeymoon couples, adventure-seeking or heat escaping tourists this ‘Queen of the Hills’ is also known for its excellent educational institutions. There is lots to see and do in Mussoorie starting from admiring the surrounding natural beauty represented by the magnificent Shivalik Ranges and the underlying Doon Valley to enjoying the mouth-watering local and international dishes served in the many cafes spread in the area.
Places to visit: Mall Road, Mussoorie Lake, Gun Hill, Jharipani Falls, Kempty Falls, Mall Road, and Lal Tibba
10. Damdama Lake (63 km away)
Famous for boating and providing 360-degree views of the Aravali Hills, Damdama Lake makes for one of the best weekend getaways near Delhi. Tourists visit this lake, which is one of the biggest lakes in Haryana for a short escapade from their city life. The scenic lake has a serene, rural, and peaceful vibe associated with it. Here you can indulge in some boating, camping, and even outdoor picnicking. For bird lovers, make sure to grab your binoculars and cameras along as you are likely to spot some of the 190 species of local and migratory birds like kingfishers, cormorants, cranes, fowls, and more. Many adventure activities can also be undertaken like kayaking, rock climbing, parasailing, angling, cycling, fishing, hot air ballooning, rowing, and nature walks.
Places to visit: Damdama Lake
11. Manesar (57 km away)
Manesar is a flourishing industrial town that is primarily identified by the large number of factories that can be found here. This booming town has also become a prominent weekend getaway for residents of Delhi NCR owing to its lush greenery, rugged rural landscape, panoramic views of the Aravali Hills, and relaxed offbeat experience. Spend some relaxing time at the bunch of resorts and spas, revel in the local experiences, and visit the handful of sightseeing attractions. Manesar also houses several recreational options including farms, camps, spas, a golf course, and local bazaar where you can relish the delectable regional cuisine and shop for some wooden handicraft items like gift boxes, trays, and home décor.
Places to visit: Gujarat Haveli, Sultanpur National Park, Heritage Transport Museum, and Rajon Ki Baoli
12. Tattapani (365 km away)
Looking for some other weekend getaways near Delhi? Visit Tattapani, a small village with hot water springs, which makes for a memorable holiday with either family or friends. Unwind and soak yourself in the solitude or take a holy dip to absolve your sins and achieve sheer bliss and contentment. The hot sulphur springs near the banks of river Sutlej are believed to have medicinal properties, offering relief from acute body aches and fatigue. While you are there, don’t forget to walk up and pay homage to the Shiva Caves, which is less than a 10 minutes’ drive from Tattapani. It also boasts various thrilling activities like trekking, river rafting, and rock climbing.
Places to visit: Hot Water Springs, Shiva Caves, and Mahunag
13. Nahan (249 km away)
The impressive hamlet of Nahan, cradled amidst the snow-covered Shivalik Himalayan Range, is one of the many picturesque hill stations in Himachal. Away from the dreary life of the crowded cities, it is blessed with lush green meadows, amazing weather, winding trails, vintage temples, gorgeous lakes, and a dreamy and romantic vibe. For those seeking some dose of adventure, Nahan makes a good base for treks in the upper echelons of Himachal, from where you can trek to the Churdhar Peak. Also, the renowned Sikh temple, Paonta Sahib Gurudwara lies at an hour’s drive from Nahan and makes for a calm spiritual retreat for all the distressed souls.
Places to visit: Churdhar Peak, Renuka Lake, Rani Tal, Suketi Fossil Park, Dhaula Kuan, and Jaitak Fort
14. Kufri (357 km away)
The picturesque town of Kufri is also one of the popular weekend getaways from Delhi for skiing on snow-clad slopes, go-karting, yak and horse rides, and other winter sports. This small hill station also serves as the starting point for most of the treks to Manali and Shimla. Nature walks and trails through thick foliage and grooves make this place a great spot to get consumed by nature’s beauty. Take a leisurely walk through the vibrant bazaar or interact with the locals to know more about the culture of this place. The small hamlet is one of the must-visit hill stations in Himachal for all those who are looking to rejuvenate themselves from the distress of city life.
Places to visit: Kufri Fun World, Mahasu Peak, Himalayan National Park, Indira Tourist Park
15. Parwanoo (265 km away)
Parwanoo is an idyllic destination in Himachal that attracts innumerable tourists every summer owing to its fragrant fruit orchards, bountiful scenic landscape, and a serene ambience. Located in close proximity to Chandigarh, it boasts of many activities that will immerse you in the pristine aura of the place. On such activity is a cabin car ride that is sure to offer some of the breath-taking views of the beautiful valley. You can also visit the Cactus Garden, which houses over 3,500 species of cacti and succulents and is a treat for nature lovers and botanists. Your trip remains incomplete without trying the local delicacies like meat pickles, fresh jams, jellies, and marmalades of the region.
Places to visit: Timber Trail, Gorkha Fort, Cactus Garden, Fruit orchards, Dagshai
16. Mashobra (353 km away)
Perched at an altitude of 2,146 metres, Mashobra is yet another popular hill station that boasts of captivating natural scenery such as thick forests, beautiful fruit orchards, and splendid Himalayan views. The best part is that it boasts of blissful climate round the year. It is one of the best places to visit in the summer, offering an array of interesting outdoor activities including boating, horse-riding, paragliding, trekking, mountain biking, camping, quad biking, and wildlife spotting. Don’t forget to visit Craignano, an old villa perched at 7,700 feet, constructed of wood and flanked by numerous water streams and woods of tall pines, oaks, and cedars. If you are looking forward to a relaxing holiday in the lap of Mother Nature, you can indulge in leisurely strolls along the tree-shaded walkways and nature trails.
Places to visit: Craignano, Jakhu Temple, Mahasu Peak, WildFlower Hall Hotel
17. Shoghi (330 km away)
Known as ‘temple town’ of Himachal Pradesh, Shoghi boasts of innumerable vintage temples, lush green countryside landscapes, abundant natural beauty, and pleasant weather round the year. It is one of the best weekend getaways near Delhi promising an ideal spot for a long vacation and leisurely picnic. But being one of the lesser-explored hill stations, it still does not have all the facilities for modern comforts but the abundant natural scenic beauty and a large variety of flora and fauna completely makes up for it. This is another place known for its local fruit-made products such as pickles, juices, syrups, and jelly.
Places to visit: Kali Temple, Jakhoo Hill, Hanuman Temple, and Kandaghat
18. Chail (336 km Away)
The panoramic hilly destination of Chail along with its edgy terrains and pristine landscapes makes for one of the perfect hill stations in Himachal. Chail served as the erstwhile summer capital of Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of the princely state of Patiala and is popularly known for housing the world’s highest cricket ground built-in 1893. The ground offers grand unsurpassed vistas of the Himalayan Mountains. Chail also houses a wildlife sanctuary where you can spot the Himalayan black bear, Indian porcupine, common langur, flying squirrel and spotted deer, among other species. Don’t forget to indulge in some thrilling adventure activities like trekking, camping, and wildlife sightings while you stay in one of the several private hotels or relaxing cottages around Chail.
Places to visit: Sadhupul Lake, Chail Palace Hotel, Kali Ka Tibba, Siddh Baba ka Mandir, Chail Wildlife Sanctuary, School Playground.
19. Shimla (342 km away)
The trendy hill station of Shimla is one of the most sought after tourist destinations owing to its unique colonial history, trekking options, forested hills, pleasant weather, and Himalayan ranges. No matter how often you have visited this place, Shimla never ceases to charm you in a different way each time you are there. Popularly known as the ‘Queen of Hills’, Shimla is certainly one of the most popular hill stations in Himachal. Whether it’s the bustling Mall Road that is dotted with shops, restaurants, and local eateries or the peaceful hamlet of Chadwick Falls or the ancient Jhakhoo Temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, Shimla remains a popular vacation spot. Here, you can engage in camping, trekking, ice skating, paragliding, skiing, and white water rafting, among other things.
Places to visit: Lakkar Bazaar, Mall Road, Jakhoo Temple, Christ Church, The Ridge
20. Dehradun (254 km away)
Nestled beautifully in the Doon Valley in the foothills of Himalayas, Dehradun is one of the best weekend getaways from Delhi. Known as the abode of Drona, Dehradun is bestowed with enduring rivers, undulating streams, mountains, valleys, and vivid landscapes. If you want to spend a few days of solitude with your loved ones among pleasant weather conditions, several gardens and parks, or participating in offbeat adventurous activities like paragliding, skiing, river rafting, trekking and angling, then Dehradun is a great option. This hill town also serves as a gateway to various other nearby hill stations.
Places to visit: Clock Tower, Chetwode Hall, Chandrabani Temple, Tapovan, Tibetan Temple, Tapkeshwar Temple, and Malsi Deer Park
21. Bhimtal (347 km away)
Bhimtal is a favourite summer escapade for countless tourists, especially honeymooners who throng here to spend some private time amidst serene and peaceful settings made by Mother Nature. Located at an altitude of 1,370 metres above the sea level, this peaceful town is blessed with abundant greenery, beautiful hillocks, and a huge blue lake, which is also the biggest attraction here. The lake encloses a tiny island in the middle that adds on to the beauty of the whole surrounding. The serene environment and enchanting calmness makes it one of the best hill stations to visit away from the hectic city life. The town is flanked by beautiful dense forests oak, shrubs, and pines, and offer exploratory trails for the adventure seekers.
Places to visit: Bhimtal Lake, Hanuman Garhi, Butterfly Research Centre, Bhimtal Island Aquarium, Karkotaka Temple, Victoria Dam, and Folk Cultural Museum
22. Rajaji National Park (242 km away)
Established in 1948, this National Park located in the state of Uttarakhand, boasts of rich flora and fauna. Spread over a vast area of 820 square kilometres, the park is dense and has a 24 kilometre stretch of River Ganga gracing it. You can spot large herds of elephants inside apart from the rare sightings of wild animals like tigers, leopards, barking deer, sambhar, wild boars, and Himalayan black bear. The natural landscape and bountiful fauna offers an amazing opportunity for nature lovers and photo fanatics to enjoy the beautiful landscape and wildlife.
23. Haridwar (220 km away)
This ancient city situated in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand on the banks of the holy river Ganga has been known as a land of legends and myths. It is considered to be one of the sacred places to visit in India, and is the gateway to the Char Dham Trek comprising Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. The city houses popular temples and shrines, which are thronged by a profusion of pilgrims from all over the country who flock here to take a dip in the holy river and get rid of all their sins and achieve blissfulness. Haridwar is also famed for being one of the four sites for the Kumbh Mela, the largest peace assemblage on the planet that draws over 75 million people to the festival. With an astonishing plethora of history, culture, architecture, art, and innumerable diverse holy places to visit in Haridwar, travellers are bound to be thoroughly engaged.
Places to visit: Har Ki Pauri, Mansa Devi Temple, Chanda Devi Temple, and Maya Devi Temple
24. Bhangarh (283 km away)
Renowned for the much acclaimed and haunted Bhangarh Fort, Bhangarh has a fascinating history associated with it. Regarded as one of the medieval forts in Rajasthan, it was established as a residence for King Madho Singh, the younger sibling of Emperor Akbar’s general called Man Singh, following ascetic Guru Balu Nath’s orders. The fort complex encompasses temples of Lord Someshwar, Gopinath, Mangala Devi, and Keshava Rai and other natural features like waterfalls, natural springs, and more. Owing to its haunted status no one is allowed to stay in the fort post-sunset. Legal action can be taken against anyone who does.
Places to visit: Bhangarh Fort, Lord Someshwar Temple, and Mangala Devi Temple
25. Ranikhet (388 km away)
Ranikhet is one of the known weekend getaways from Delhi located in Almora district of Uttarakhand. It got its name from Queen Padmini wife of King Sudhardev who chose this place as her residence. Located at an altitude of 1,829 metres above sea level, it serves as the headquarters of the Kumaon Regiment of the Indian Army. The enchanting hill station, which literally means, ‘Queen’s Meadow’ has everything to placate the desires of an avid city dweller. An all-season tourist-spot for the enthusiasts of the natural beauty, Ranikhet is a place that reflects panoramic vistas of the majestic Himalayas, covered in dense forests of oak and pines. It also offers unparalleled views of the magnanimous Nanda Devi Parbat Peak.
Places to visit: Jhula Devi Temple, Chaubatia Orchards, Majhkhali, Bhalu Dam, and Golf Course
26. Pangot (341 km away)
This small peaceful charming hill town is placed in the hilly Kumaon region and is touted as one of the best weekend getaways from Delhi for those who love trekking, bird watching, adventurous activities, and mountain biking. A true bird lover’s paradise, you can spot close to 580 avifauna species including Lammergeyer, Rufous-bellied Niltava, Himalayan Griffon, Spotted and Slaty-backed Forktail, and Blue-winged Minla, among others at the Kilbury and Snow View Point. The picturesque landscape and relaxing charm of the town attracts countless tourists who prefer to spend a relaxing vacation while being close to nature.
Places to visit: Snow View Point, Naini Peak, and Sattal
27. Mandawa (258 km away)
Situated in the middle of the Shekhawati region, the town of Mandawa came into existence in the 18th-century. It is inhabited by wealthy Rajput merchant families who exchanged goods through the silk route in the past. The town possesses a vivid historic and heritage charm and is dotted with long-standing forts and stupefying mansions or havelis, which transport you back in time. Shop for some amazing paintings and wooden items such as furniture, toys, and antiques and have a bite of some of the sumptuous delicacies of the local cuisine. People with interest in history and archaeology flock this place to reminiscent the past and spend time admiring the grandeur of the havelis.
Places to visit: Murmuria Haveli, Binsidhar Newatia Haveli, Lakshminarayan Ladia Haveli, and Hanuman Prasad Goenka Haveli
28. Kuchesar (130 km away)
Known for its impressive Kuchesar Fort, also called Rao Raj Vilas, built by the Jat rulers in the 18th century. This place now stands as an epitome of architectural finery, which helps one understand how things were back then. The hidden gem exhibits marvellous architectural wonders that would unfold before your eyes. The mud fort came under Ajit Singh’s family’s possession in the 18th-century when the Mughal emperor Najib-ud-Daulah accorded the title of Rao Bahadur to the Jat family. Neemrana Hotels renovated and restored the fort and turned it into a hotel in 1998.
Places to visit: Kuchesar Mud Fort, Mukteshwar Dham, and Chandi Mandir
Now that you know what the best weekend trips from Delhi are, so where are you packing your bags for this weekend? Exploring wildlife in Corbett or seeking solace in Kasauli! Let us know below.