Delhi is a very busy city. Delhi with its dynamic environment and fast-paced lifestyle can sometimes really burn you out. In such cases, the best that we can do to ourselves is head for a short trip; away from all the hassles of daily life. Delhiites have many options when it comes to taking short trips from the city. Now, this seems to be a never-successful plan as either we can’t take days off from work or we keep pondering on some not-too-crowded destinations. Therefore, if you too are planning for your next weekend vacation getaway, here is a list of the some short trip destinations from Delhi.
1. Kasol, Himachal Pradesh
Kasol is a quaint little village in Himachal situated along the banks of the river Parvati. Commonly known as the 'Amsterdam of India', Kasol is a tourist attraction that is rapidly gaining fame as a popular hub for trekkers, backpackers, and nature lovers. Kasol is situated 23 kms from Bhuntar and next to the religious town of Manikaran and is one of the best places in the country just to sit back and chill in the panorama of snow-clad mountains, pine trees and gurgling river. Besides natural beauty, it offers a number of easy to moderate treks, lovely cafes for foodies, and a lot of serenity.
Distance from Delhi : 519 km (11 hours)
How to Reach : The most preferred way to reach Kasol is by road as there is no direct rail or flight connectivity. However, Bhuntar or Kullu–Manali Airport is approximately 31 km away, which receives regular flights from all major Indian cities. Pathankot (295 km) is the nearest railway station to Kasol.
Best Time to Visit : March to June
2. Jim Corbett, Uttarakhand
Renowned for being Asia’s first National Park, Jim Corbett National Park is situated in Uttarakhand’s Nainital District. Especially known for housing Royal Bengal Tigers, the spectacular Park features hills, lakes, grasslands and streams. You can go on a jungle safari to witness the Park’s rich wildlife or take an elephant ride. On a trip to Jim Corbett, you get to spot over 580 species of birds, and 50 species of mammals. Visitors can also enjoy river rafting and explore the fascinating Corbett Museum. Corbett Falls and Garjiya Devi temple are some other amazing spots to see in Corbett.
Distance from Delhi: 238 km
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Places to See: Corbett National Park, Garjiya Devi Temple, Corbett Museum, Corbett Falls
3. Lansdowne, Uttarakhand
Located in the Pauri district of Uttarakhand, Lansdowne is a picturesque destination for road trips from Delhi. The oak and pine tree-covered landscape dotted with colonial-era buildings weaves a unique charm on visitors. Things to do here include trekking, camping, bird watching, boating and wildlife safari. Lansdowne is an idyllic hill station that serves as an ideal retreat away from the chaotic city life. Known for its serenity and scenic beauty, the place is counted amongst the best off-beat spots from Delhi.
Distance from Delhi: 260 km
Best Time to Visit: April to June, December to February
Places to See: Garhwal Rifles Regimental War Memorial, Bhulla Lake, Tip-in-Top View Point, Bhim Pakora, Kalagarh Tiger Reserve, Kaleshwar Temple, St. Mary’s Church
4. Jaipur, Rajasthan
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. The red sandstone buildings, which give this destination its famous identity of ‘Pink City’ will greet you on arrival in Jaipur. A number of forts, palaces and other historical sites reminiscent of the culture of the Rajasthan’s royals make it one of the best weekend getaway from Delhi.
Distance from Delhi : 281 km
Best Time to Visit : November to March
Places to See : Amer Fort, City Palace, Hawa Mahal, Albert Hall Museum, Jantar Mantar, Jal Mahal, Ram Niwas Garden
5. Kasauli, Himachal Pradesh
A quaint town, Kasauli is an attractive mix of picturesque hiking trails, snow-clad mountains and lush landscape. This colonial era hill station in Himachal is a hiker’s paradise and nature lover's nest that is adorned with the unrivalled charm of its majestic Himalayan vistas. The quiet hill station is never too crowded and is the best place to relax with friends and family. There are several small attractions such as churches, viewpoints and nature trails around this town that are worth exploring.
Places to See : sit : 287 km
Best Time to Visit : March to June & September to November
Places to See: Sunset Point, Monkey Point, Mall Road, Christ Church, Gilbert Trail
6. Mcleodganj, Himachal Pradesh
Mcleodganj is a popular hill station in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. Nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas and covered with lush greenery, it is a peaceful retreat for weary souls. Little Lhasa, the other name of this beautiful abode near Dharamshala, is also known for being home to the Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama and many Tibetan refugees. People come here for various reasons like spirituality, volunteer programs, Himalayan experiences and adventures, and for much other sightseeing, photo and excursion opportunities in this religious small town cum hill station in the Himalayas.
Distance from Delhi : 480 km
Best Time to Visit : March to June and September to November
Places to See : Bhagsu Falls, Namgyal Monastery, Triund, Bhagsunag Temple, Tibetan Museum, Dharamkot
7. Ranikhet, Uttarakhand
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.
Distance from Delhi : 388 Km
Best time to visit : March to July
Places to See : Jhula Devi Temple, Chaubatia Orchards, Majhkhali, Bhalu Dam, and Golf Course
8. Bharatpur, Rajasthan
Bharatpur is another popular place to plan a weekend getaway. The serene ambiance of Bharatpur is awe-inspiring and the mystic landscapes here are home to exotic flora and fauna. Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary attracts visitors from across the world with its rare and vibrant experiences. Around 370 bird species can be spotted here including the much pleasing Siberian Crane. With a history dating back to the 5th century BC, the city also has many magnificent monuments.
Distance from Delhi : 222 km
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Places to See: Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Lohagarh Fort, Banke Bihari Temple, Bharatpur Palace and Museum, Ganga Mandir
9. Bir Billing, Himanchal Pradesh
The twin destinations of Bir and Billing are best known among thrill-seekers for the paragliding championship held here every year. This place is not for the faint-hearted as coming here and not trying the sport is a sin. The beautiful scenery comprising tea terraces, dense forests, Tibetan settlements and snow-capped Dhauladhar peaks in the backdrop can be best seen with paragliding.
Distance from Delhi : 517 Km
Best time to Visit : Throughout the year
Places to See : Chokling Monastery, Sherab Ling Monastery, Bir Tea Factory, Deer Park Institute, Baijnath Temple, Drukpa Kagyu Monastery, Chowgan Tea Gardens
10. Udaipur, Rajasthan
Udaipur – the City of Lakes, hypnotizes with its history and remnants that flaunt immaculate sculpting and intricate carving. Beautiful lakes elevate the charm of the city to a whole new level. Shopping in Udaipur is an affair filled with vibrant, colorful knick knacks, and more. There’s never an end to what you can indulge in here; watch the sunset on a boat, uncover the mysteries as you take a heritage walk across the various attractions of Udaipur.
Distance from Delhi : 663 km
Best Time To Visit : October to March
Places to See : City Palace, Lake Palace, Jagmandir, Lake Pichola, Jiyan Sagar, Jagdish Temple, Sajjangarh Palace, Vintage Car Museum