Who doesn’t need a break from the routine 9-5 job and daily hectic life that we live? Are you seeking for a mini-vacation in close vicinity of Delhi NCR? Here is the list of top 10 best weekend getaways from Delhi.

 

 

 

 

 

1. Agra- A romantic city in India

 

 

 

The city of Taj Mahal, what greater significance of Love there can be? Agra is one of the best city for a weekend getaway near Delhi. Enriched with glorious Mughal history, Agra draw visitors from all around the globe. The city houses historical marvels like Agra Fort, Ram Bagh in Chini ka Roza (Rauza) along with Balkeshwar Temple, Kailash Temple, Mankameshwar Temple, and the list will go on forever. Agra is one of the three corners of the famous Golden Triangle tour along with Delhi and Jaipur. Arga is very close to places like Bharatpur, Mathura, Vrindavan, and Gwalior.

 

Why To Visit?

 

 

Taj Mahal

 

 

You cannot, just cannot go to Agra and not Visit Taj Mahal. A UNESCO Heritage site and one of the 7 wonders of the world opens 30 minutes before sunrise and closes 30 minutes before sunset. Note that Agra is closed on every Friday.

 

 

Agra Fort

 

 

It will remind you of Delhi’s Red Fort in architecture, but noticeably better preserved.

 

Itimad-Ud-Daulah’s tomb

 

 

It is also called as ‘Baby Taj’ by many, it is also sometimes described as the jewel box.

 

 

Ram Bagh

 

 

Among the first of the gardens that were built by the Mughals by Emperor Babar.

 

 

Jama Masjid

 

 

Built in 1648, this large mosque is famous for its unusual dome and absence of minarets.

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     Taj Mahotsav

Takes every year from 18^th February to 27^th February at Shilpgram near Taj Mahal.

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Other Details:

 

 

• Distance: Agra is just 230 kilometres from Delhi.
• Budget: Approximately Rs. 6,000.
• How to travel: From Delhi you can take a cab, train, flight or commercial road vehicles.
• Best time to visit: Ideal seasons to visit Agra are Winter (October- February) and Monsoon (June- September).
• Who to travel with: You can visit the city with your friends, family, or even your partner.

 

 

2. Jaipur- The Pink City

 

 

Jaipur is now one of UNESCO’s Wold Heritage Sites. It is said the Jaipur was India’s first planned city. Jaipur is one of the cities that make the Golden Triangle tour with the other two being Agra and Delhi. The city was planned by renowned architect Vidyadhar Bhattacharya, who used Principles of Vastu Sashtra while building the city. Jaipur has a lot to offer, from feast to festivals to sightseeing, you can never get bored in the ‘Pink City’.  The royalty of the kings clearly speaks through the forts and palaces. Places close by are Alwar, Pushkar, Ranthambore, and Bharatpur. It is one of the best weekend getaways from Delhi.

 

Why To Visit?

 

 

Amber (Amer) Palace

 

 

one of the UNESCO World Heritage site, sits on top of a small hill with trees all around.

 

City Palace

 

 

Built with a melange of Hindu and Mughal architecture, the royal family still lives in the private part of the palace.

Jantar Mantar

 

 

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, it houses the tallest sundial in the world among 18 other such unique instruments.

 

Hawa Mahal

 

 

The Palace of wind was built in 1799 as a summer retreat for the king and his family.

Albert Hall Museum

 

 

Visitors can see a wide collection of metal and stone sculptures, carpets, ivory products, weaponry and much more.

Birla Temple

 

 

Also known as Lakshmi Narayan temple, displays exquisite sculptures and carvings and is a treat for the eyes at night when lit.

 

 

Chokhi Dhani

 

 

A village themed resort which needs no introduction, people go to Jaipur just to eat there.

 

 

Kite Festival

 

On Makar Sankranti, 14^th January, of every year people make the kite festival the most attended festival of Rajasthan. Government of Rajasthan put up a fair for tourist coming in from not only different parts of India but globally too.

Teej Festival

It is a must attend festival and must be on your wish list, and no, we are not joking, you’ll be surprised to see how royally this festival is celebrated.

 

 

Adventure Sports

 

 

Ride camels and elephants. Go on a safari trip at Jhalana Safari Park, and try your luck at spotting Lions, Hyenas, Leopards and many more wild animals. Arguably the best adventure sport to be offered in Jaipur is the Hot Air Balloon rides which can accommodate 8 people at once. Go Paragliding for a price of Rs. 2,500 per person, or if you like go test your shooting skills at Rifle Shooting Academy for just Rs. 720.

 

 

Other details

 

 

• Distance: Distance between Delhi and Jaipur is around 280 kilometres
• Budget: Approximately Rs. 6,500.
• How to travel: We recommend you travel to Jaipur by road and enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way, it should not take longer than 6 hours, but you can also travel by air or train.
• Best time to travel: We advise you to visit Jaipur between October to March, as it will be winters and you will be saved from soaring heat of Jaipur.
• Who to travel with: Jaipur is one of the cities in India which can be enjoyed alone as solo trip and with company of friends, family and significant other.

 

3. Nainital- The Lake District of India

 

 

 

At a height to 1,938 meters from sea level, Nainital is amongst the most beautiful hill stations you can visit in North India, probably it is the only hill station that has that ‘Old World Charm’ retained by it, the old buildings are mostly like how the British left them. Enclosed by mountains from three directions and sitting around the Naini Tal Lake captures a view that takes the breath away. Enjoy trekking or ride the aerial ropeway. Icing on the cake is just under 70 kilometres away from Nainital is Jim Corbett National Park which is the oldest national park in India. Ranikhet, Almora, Sattal, Kumaon, and Rishikesh are all the nearby places you can visit. If you are planning for mini-vacation then definitionally it is one of the finest best weekend getaways from Delhi.

 

 

Why To Visit?

 

 

Naina Peak

 

 

Also called China Peak is the highest peak in Nainital at 2,615 metres gives the perfect bird-eye view of the city.

 

 

Himalayan Darshan

 

 

Also known as The View Point situated at a height of around 2,300 metres is mere 5 kilometres away from the city.

 

Naina Devi Temple

 

 

It is said that the eyes of Goddess Sati fell here when lord Shiva was carrying her burned body is also one of the 51 Shakti Peeths of India.

Jim Corbett National Park

 

 

Visit the various zones of the park like Durga Devi zone, Dhikala zone, Jhirna Zone, on Elephant;s back or in a Jeep. You can also stay in the park. If you plan to visit Corbett National Park we advise you to make the bookings at least 120 days before.

 

 

Tals

 

 

Visit 7 Tals near Nainital like Bhimtal, and Sattal.

 

Tiffin Top

 

 

Also known as Dorothy’s Seat is the second highest viewpoint in Nainital which provides with some incredible sight.

 

Lovers Point

 

 

Arguably the best and awe striking views that any viewpoint provide in Nainital.

Boating

 

 

You can choose from different option of Paddle Boat, Rowing Boat, or Yachting.

Cable Car

 

 

Also called Aerial Ropeway connects Nainital’s busy flats with Snow-view point.

Shopping

 

Shop at the Mall road, you will see restaurants and shops selling traditional artefacts like jewellery, handicrafts, and Kashmiri Pashmina Shawls.

 

 

Adventure Sports

 

Nainital will feed the adventurer in you with activities like Paragliding, camping, river rafting, canyoning/cannoning, and hill climbing just to name some.

 

 

Other details

 

• Distance: Distance between Delhi and Nainital is around 300 kilometres.
• Budget: A typical 2 day trip will cost you around Rs. 8,500.
• How to travel: You can take your own car or any commercial road vehicle to make the trip, if you choose to go via flight or train you will have to cover another 30-40 kilometres to reach Nainital.
• Best time to travel: Nainital is one of those few place which you can visit anytime of the year. However the peak season start from December and end in January in winters, and in summers it starts from May and ends in June.
• Who to travel with: Nainital is primarily is romantic destination, but you will be surprised to see the solitude you can get if you go on a solo trip to Nainital or even with friends.

 

 

 

4. Kasauli- cosy scenic little hill station

 

 

77 kilometres from Shimla, Kasauli is a beautiful hill station rich in both flora and fauna with soothing weather. It was founded in 1842 by the Britishers. It is said that Lord Hanuman stepped on this little hill station while coming back from the Himalayas after fetching the Sanjeevani parvath (the hill with herbs that can heal fatal wounds). From Monkey point, travellers get a clear view of Chandigarh, However due to restrictions put up by the Air Force people cannot carry cameras to this point. Nadaun, Pragpur, Spiti, and Kufri and all near to Kasauli.

 

Why To Visit?

 

Monkey Point

 

 

The highest point of the hill station, along with awe striking scenery, the point also have a Hanuman Temple which is said to have the footmarks of the lord.

 

 

Mall Road

 

 

Mall road of Kasauli provide visitors with shopping options along with eat outs.

 

Kasauli Brewery

 

 

Kasauli has its own brewery which produces whiskey and ale and are supplied globally.

Timber Trail

 

The ropeway gives a beautiful view of the hills surrounding Kasuali.

Trekking

 

 

Walk on Gilbert trail or take a walk to the Monkey Point

 

Toy Train Ride

 

A beautiful journey through hills and tunnels from kasuali to Dharampur, this toy train ride is a UNESCO World Heritage.

 

Food

 

Explore Tibetan cuisine on Mall road or spend some time at the Hangout Bar which is a rooftop bar with live DJ and a mesmerizing view and Rudra Café will not let you down.

 

Other Details

 

 

• Distance: Distance between Delhi and Kasauli is around 300 kilometres and will take you around 8 hours to drive.
• Budget: Around Rs. 7,500.
• How to travel: You can take your own car, you will get flights until Chandigarh or take a train to Kalka and hire a cab from there.
• Best time to travel: We recommend you to visit Kasauli between March to April and September to early December.
• Who to travel with: Our suggestion will be for you to have a Solo Trip to Kasauli, but a trip with friends and your partner will be enjoyed too.

 5. Shimla- The Summer Capital of India

 

 

 

With a distance of less than 350 kilometres from Delhi, Shimla has been a staple for families to visit during summers and winters. Arguably the best hill station of Himachal Pradesh. You just cannot miss the Kalka-Shimla toy train ride which passes through 105 tunnels and 806 bridges during the journey. Situated in the Northern part of the country is in close proximity of Summer Hill, Chail, and Kufri. Shimla has it all, from cafés to shopping centres and royal buildings to scenic points.

 

 

Why To Visit?

 

 

Mall Road

 

 

You’ll find cosy cafes to clubs to shops where you can shop to your heart content

The Ridge

 

Take a stroll and find yourself getting lost in the beautiful scenery of snow and huge hills yet surrounded by cafes and bars.

Kufri

 

 

Only 15 kilometres away from Shima city, the view only gets better.

Shimla Christ Church

 

Located on the Mall Road itself, is the second oldest church in all of Northern India.

Annandale

 

 

Large stretch of level ground on a Hill Station, you will be left awe-struck.

 

Adventure Sports

 

Indulge yourself in the only natural Ice Skating Rink in all of South Asia in Shimla, or visit Kufri Fun World and enjoy Go Karting, Sky Swinger, Zip Line, and many more. You get options to set up a camp in Shimla and nearby places.

 

Other Details

 

• Distance: Distance between Delhi and Kasauli is around 350 kilometres and will be around 8 hour drive.
• Budget: Approximately Rs. 5,500.
• How to travel: By flight, you will have to take a taxi or a bus to Shima from Chandigarh. By Train: there are not direct trains to Shimla, you will have to take the Toy Train from Kalka Station. By car/bus you can reach Shimla in around 8-10 hours. We highly recommend taking the toy train no matter which mode of transportation you choose.
• Best time to travel: We recommend you to visit Shimla during Winter and Summer seasons.
• Who to travel with: We suggest you visit Shimla with Friends, but that does not mean you cannot enjoy with your family. Additionally, Shimla is a staple Honeymoon destination in India.

 

 

 

6. Lansdowne- The Picture Perfect Town

 

 

 

Sitting at 1,780 metres above the sea level can offer some scenic mountain views. It is a blissful holiday destination, perfect for a quick and short get away from daily hustle filled life.  The cosy little town has some man-made lakes which offer boating. This place is so awe-striking that you just might fill your storage on your camera/smartphones with pictures and videos. Places in close proximity includes Kura, Mussoorie, Auli, and New Tehri.

 

Why To Visit?

 

 

Bhulla lake

 

 

Also called Bhulla Tal, is maintained by the Indian Army offers boat rides with some unconventional bird can be seen.

 

 

Tin-In-Top

 

 

A view point, famous amongst the tourists, which provides spectacular views of mountain range.

Gharwali Mess

 

 

The oldest building in Lansdowne.

 

Mary’s Church

 

 

A church showcasing the beauty of British architecture.

Camping

 

 

Indulge yourself in outdoor activities and camping and break the monotony of hotel rooms.

 

 

Trekking

 

The town offers treat for the hiker inside you, you can choose trekking trips that as short (few hours) or long (2-3 days).

Bird Watching

 

 

You will find bird that you would not have ever seen in your life.

 

Wildlife Tours

 

Try your luck at sighting Tigers and deer among several other species of animals at the Kalagarh Tiger Reserve.

Other Details

 

• Distance: Distance between Delhi and Lansdowne is under 300 kilometres.
• Budget: A typical 2 day trip will cost you around Rs. 5,500.
• How to travel: You can take your own car and enjoy the beautiful view points along the way or if you fancy you can take a bus ride as well. The nearest railway station is 40 kilometres away in Kotdwar.
• Best time to travel: Best time to visit Lansdowne is between March and October.
• Who to travel with: A Solo Trip to Lansdowne will be unforgettable, but a trip with friends will be enjoyed too. Recently Lansdowne has seen a lot of couples coming in to celebrate their honeymoon.

 

 

7. Chail- Summer Capital of the Maharaja

 

 

Chail was the Summer Capital of the Maharaja of Patiala, situated at 2,250 metres from the sea level it is the serene place you were looking for. It is also called the ‘hiker’s paradise’. You can take part in activities like trekking, hiking, horse riding and angling. From Temple to Palaces to Sanctuary Chail has it all. Tourist like to spend at least 2 days in this small hill station. The hill station is the house of the highest cricket ground in the world. While you are there, you may also like to visit places nearby like, Sadupul, Kandaghat, Jabli, Kalhot and Solan.

 

Why To Visit?

 

Chail Palace Hotel

 

 

 

Previously owned by the Maharaja of Patiala was turned into a hotel for tourists to stay in. You must, if not stay, at least visit this astonishing piece of architecture.

Kali Ka Tibba

 

 

Also called Kali temple sit atop the hill with nothing but some trees around it.

Gurudwara Sahib

 

 

A Gurudwara that looks like a church.

Sadhupur Lake

 

 

Eat at the restaurants with your feet dip in the cold lake water.

Angling

 

 

Go fishing at Giri River

Activities

 

Trek and hike to the dumbfounding view-points or take a horse ride

 

Other Details

 

 

• Distance: Distance between Delhi and Chail is just over 350 kilometres
• Budget: Typically, budget of Rs. 7,500 should suffice.
• How to travel: You can take your own car and it should not take longer than 9 hours to reach Chail from Delhi.
• Best time to travel: Visiting chail between March and June will give you the most out of your trip.
• Who to travel with: A Solo Trip to Chail is always a nice idea, but we recommend going there with your friends and you will thoroughly enjoy the hill stations. Any hill station is a good destination for newlyweds, on their honeymoon, Chail will give them the solitude that other hill stations like Shimla lacks now.

 

 

8. Mukteshwar- for 180° view of the Himalayan Range

 

 

One of the few places in India which till date can be called unpolluted sit at a height of 2,171 metres. Embraced by fruit orchids and virgin forests, this places got its name from 350 years old Mukteshwar Dham dedicated to God Shiv. Mukteshwar offers activities like rock climbing, trekking, and camping. One cannot just go to this hill town and miss Chauli ki Jaali which delivers a panoramic view of the Himalayan range. Close by is a small village Ghorakhal which is the perfect picturesque site. Ramgarh, Bhowali, and Ghorakhal are some places situated near Mukteshwar which you can visit while you are there.

 

Why To Visit?

 

Sonapani

 

 

Sort of a secret spot, not known by many, you can stay at a cottage devoid of TV and Wi-Fi and take part in fruit picking and learn about Kumouni culture.

 

Mukteshwar Temple

 

A temple situated at the height of 2,312 metres.

Mukteshwar Inspection Bungalow

 

 

Sun rise view from this landmark is admirable and you can even stay at this place.

Chauli ki Jaali

 

 

Also known as Chauthi Jali, along with the bewitching views, it is said that the demon and goddess had an intense battle here and marks made by dragging of sword can be seen there.

Sitla

 

 

Perfect place for trekkers

Adventure activities

 

Take part in rock climbing, trekking, rappelling, and paragliding.

Other Details

 

 

• Distance: Mukteshwar is 350 kilometres from National capital Delhi.
• Budget: Approximately Rs. 6,000.
• How to travel: Buses from ISBT Anand Vihar are available for Mukteshwar and you can take your own car too, take small breaks and let the beauty of Uttarakhand sync in. Train and flights can be taken but do not have direct connectivity to Mukteshwar.
• Best time to travel: People like to travel in summers from March to June and in winters from October to November.
• Who to travel with: Mukteshwar is the perfect destination for trips with friends and family.

 

 

9. Neemrana- Where The Ancient Syncs With The Modern

 

 

 

Rich was opulent history and fierce battles and arguably houses the best resort of Delhi NCR, Neemrana is the perfect destination for a weekend retreat. Neemrana Fort was built in 1464 AD is currently operates as one of the oldest and luxurious hotel of Rajasthan. You will find Bala Quila giving a beautiful view of the city Alwar and Sariska National Park famous for Tigers in close proximity of Neemrana to visit.

 

Why To Visit?

 

Baori

 

 

An underground well with 170 steps will showcase the old architecture.

Neemrana Fort Palace

 

 

If you do not stay there, they will charge you for entry but the amount will be worth spending. If you stay at this lavish hotel you can take advantage of world class hospitality.

Bala Quila

 

 

Also known as Alwar Fort on top of Aravali range gives the perfect view of the city.

Adventure activities

 

See the wildlife in their habitat and if you are lucky enough you might see a Tiger at the Sariska National Park. In the hotel you get activities like zip lining which get thrilling at the speeds of 40kmph. Also you have the option of a Hot Air Balloon ride.

 

 

Other Details

 

 

• Distance: Neemrana is just 120 kilometres from Delhi.
• Budget: A typical 2 day trip will cost you around Rs. 7,000.
• How to travel: Take a taxi or go by your own car.
• Best time to travel: We recommend visiting Neemrana from October to March, it is best to avoid the scorching heat of Rajasthan.
• Who to travel with: A perfect destination to go with your friends, family, and partner.

 

 

 

10. Mathura and Vrindavan- Where Lord Krishna was born

 

 

 

Mathura and Vrindavan are considered to be one of the holiest places in India, Lord Krishna’s birthplace is Mathura, and spent his childhood in Vrindavan. Devotees are seen smearing the soil of this place on their forehead. The major festivals celebrated here are Holi and Janmashtami. Probably the nearest holy site to Delhi, it is the best place to know more about Indian culture and heritage. These two cities are very close to Bharatpur, Agra, Kosi, Palwal and Dholpur.

 

Places to Visit here

 

Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple

 

 

Also called Krishna Janmasthan Temple (Mandir) is built around the prison cell where Lord Krishna was born.

Kansa Qila

 

Remains of Mama Kans’ Qila still stands at the bank of Yamuna River.

Barsana

 

 

Previously called Brahmasaran, is the birthplace of Lady Radha.

Gokul

 

 

The town where Lord Krishna was brought up in clandestineness.

 

What to do here

 

 

 

• Parikrama: Govardhan parikrama is not so far from Mathura.
• Food: Ghewar, Peda, lassi and many more things from the famous Brijwasi,
• Festivals: One just cannot miss Holi and Janmashtami in Mathura Vrindavan
• Shopping: you must try the sweets made from milk as Mathura is also knows as the City of Cows. Artefacts associated with Lord Krishna are sold at numerous shops.

 

Other details

 

 

 

• Distance: Mathura is just 180 kilometres from Delhi.
• Budget: A typical 2 day trip will cost you around Rs. 5,000.
• How to travel: Take a taxi or go by your own car, or even take a train.
• Best time to travel: Recommend time to visit Mathura-Vrindavan is from October to March.
• Who to travel with: A perfect destination to go with your friends, and family.