20 Best Weekend Getaways Near Delhi with Kids

Weekend Getaways are a great way to break away from the hustle and rejuvenate your body and soul. Delhi has oodles of options for weekend destinations. There are hill stations, historical cities, wildlife sanctuaries, nature resorts, and more to explore near Delhi. We have curated a list of 20 best weekend getaways near Delhi to help you plan that much-needed weekend trip from Delhi.

If you are wondering about accommodation options in Delhi, check out our guide to the best places to stay in Delhi with family!

Further reading:
The ultimate India bucket list
India itinerary ideas for spending 1 to 4 weeks

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Best Weekend Getaways Near Delhi

If you’ve explored all the places in Delhi, head to one of the best places to visit near Delhi!

PS: Most of these weekend destinations can easily be explored on a day trip if you are short on time.

Jaipur: One of the Most Royal and Gastronomical Weekend Trips from Delhi

One of the three cities that make up India’s Golden Triangle (the other two being Delhi and Agra), Jaipur remains a favorite weekend destination among Delhites for three reasons – firstly, with a well-maintained highway, it can be easily reached from Delhi; secondly, you can explore all the major attractions in a day or two; and lastly, it offers a lot for families traveling with kids.

Celebrated as the Pink City, it is, in fact, vividly colorful. The historic forts, palaces, and castles showcase fab architecture that’s a fine blend of Mughal, Rajasthani, and European architectural styles.

The best places to visit in Jaipur include Amber Fort, Jaigarh Fort, Nahargarh Fort, Jal Mahal, Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Jantar Mantar, and Galtaji Temple. I’d strongly recommend getting an eyeful of a breathtaking sunset from Nahargarh Fort as it bathes the city of Jaipur in its magical colors.

You can also take a day trip from Jaipur to Chand Baori in Abhaneri and Bhangarh Fort in Alwar.

Jaipur’s quaint and colorful Bazaars are a treat for shoppers who love all things artsy. From handcrafted jewelry and block-printed textiles to blue pottery and handmade puppets, you’d want to have them all.

And you can’t leave Jaipur before you gorge on the yummiest Indian street food. And you should know how to eat street food safely beforehand.

A cup of chai (Indian tea) at a roadside ‘tapris’ with pyaaz ki kachoris and jalebis adds a touch of flavor to the entire experience. Laxmi Misthan Bhandar in Johri Bazaar is a perfect place to try lip-smacking Rajasthani food. Order their unlimited Rajasthani thali and eat to your heart’s content.

October to March (winter) is the best time to plan a weekend trip to Jaipur. The weather is at its finest, plus the city hosts some of its best events, including the Jaipur Literature Festival, the world’s largest free literary festival, and decks up for major Indian festivals like Diwali, Holi, and Makar Sankranti.

If you want to feel the royalty of Jaipur, choose to stay at one of the heritage hotels or Havelis. We suggest the Pearl Palace Heritage and Jaipur Haveli for budget-minded families and Samode Haveli for families who like to splurge on luxury.

Jaipur, a royal city, is one of the best short trips from Delhi.

Distance – 280 km

How to Reach – Driving from Delhi to Jaipur is a smooth ride, taking about 4.5 -5 hrs. Delhi and Jaipur are part of India’s Golden Triangle; hence, there are many buses and Volvos that ply the route. There are many direct flights and trains to choose from as well. Alternatively, you can join this two-day guided tour from Delhi to Jaipur.

Alwar

Just about 150 km south of Delhi, Alwar is a historic city in Rajasthan. Dating back to 1000 CE, it was once a part of the Matsya Kingdom and is one of the best places near Delhi for weekend trips.

With its proximity to Delhi, rich heritage, and beautiful Rajput architecture, Alwar is a perfect weekend destination. The city hosts the annual Mega Alwar trade fair and is well-known for its handmade Papier-mâché.

The best places to visit in and around Alwar include Siliserh Lake and Palace, Bala Qila or Alwar Fort, Moosi Maharani ki Chhatri, Sagar Lake, City Palace or Vinay Vilas Mahal, Bhangarh Fort, Ajabgarh Fort, Sariska Tiger Reserve, Bharthari Temple, Hill Fort Kesroli, and Ashoka’s Buddhist Stupa (Viratnagar).

Winter (October to March) is hands down the best time to visit Alwar, or for that matter, any weekend destination from Delhi.

Don’t leave Alwar without tasting it, and of course, pack a load of traditional Milk Cake (Kalakand), which Alwar is famous for. The best place to try this local delicacy is Babu Thakur Das and Sons. Make sure the milk cake is fresh—Head to Burja Haveli, a restaurant known for its authentic Rajasthani cuisine.

We stayed at Dadhikar Fort, a beautiful heritage property located on the foothills of the Aravali. The rooms are individually and tastefully decorated. The ancient era feels close to nature – that’s Dadhikar Fort! PS: Their cultural program is a class apart. Neemrana Fort Palace is another good accommodation option near Alwar.

Neemrana Fort Palace is a destination in itself. You can explore this 15th-century fort while staying here. Adventure lovers can go zip-lining with Flying Fox Neemrana. The 16th-century Neemrana Baoli is also worth a visit.

If time isn’t a constraint and you yearn for slow travel with a pinch of luxury, hop on the oldest rolling locomotive in the world, Fairy Queen Steam Express. This heritage train takes 2 days and 1 night to reach Alwar from Delhi. You spend a night at one of the heritage hotels at the designated stop.

The package includes the train ticket, meals, hotel stay, sightseeing in Delhi and Alwar, and a Jeep Safari at Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary. Click here for more details.

Distance – 150 km

How to Reach – Alwar is best reached by car from Delhi in around 3.5 hours. With your own vehicle, exploring the city is much easier, since most attractions are spread out and public transportation is limited. You can rent a car or maybe book a cab with a driver. There are a few trains available from different stations in Delhi. And if you yearn for luxury, the Fairy Queen Steam Express is for you.

Chandigarh

The first planned city in India will genuinely take your heart away and make you want to visit again.

The city is divided into sectors with clean, wide roads and beautifully maintained gardens interspersed throughout, making you feel proud.

The best part is that this city is pedestrian and cycle-friendly.

But beyond this, there is so much that you can do with family and kids. The man-made Sukhna Lake is everybody’s favorite. Sit by the lake and let the breeze cool you, or enjoy boating.

In today’s world, with so much emphasis on recycling and reuse, little did anyone think that a humble man from Chandigarh would start a garden from waste material back in 1957.

Today, we know it as the world-renowned Rock Garden, and the humble man behind it was Mr. Nek Chand, who started the venture as a hobby.

It wouldn’t be wrong even to call Chandigarh the city of gardens and parks. Beautifully maintained green spaces are a paradise for those seeking a fresh breath of air.

If you are visiting in spring, then don’t forget to visit the Rose Garden in full bloom.

Distance – 250 km

How to Reach – Driving on NH1 takes about 4.5-5 hours to reach the City Beautiful. And don’t miss the scrumptious food at the many dhabas (roadside restaurants serving local food) all along the route. There are many buses, including the luxury Volvo, that ply the route at different times. You can choose from Shatabdi and other trains for a comfortable journey. If time is a constraint, there are many direct flights from Delhi available on multiple carriers.

Kasauli

Located between Chandigarh and Shimla, Kasauli is about 288 km from Delhi. It takes 5 to 6 hours to reach Kasauli from Delhi.

The cantonment town looks mesmerizing with its oak and pine forests, British-era cemeteries, churches, hilltop temples, and striking views of the Himalayas.

Ideally, you can explore Chandigarh for a day and head to Kasauli to spend some time in the mountains before coming back to the hustle and bustle of Delhi. Or maybe head to Shoghi (another beautiful hill town in Himachal Pradesh) while taking a refreshing break at Kasauli, if it’s a long weekend.

The easiest way to reach Kasauli is by road, preferably in your own car, or by hiring a cab. There are plenty of buses from Chandigarh and Delhi to Kasauli. The nearest railhead to Kasauli is Kalka, around 40 km away.

Legend has it that Kasauli came into existence when God Hanuman placed his feet here (now known as Monkey Point) while going to Sanjeevani Hill. The best places to visit in and around Kasauli are Christ Church, Gilbert Trail, Gurudwara Shri Guru Nanak Ji, Monkey Point, Sunset Point, Sanawar, Jagjit Nagar, Dagshai, and Subathu.

There are some beautiful hiking opportunities. The town has a few good restaurants and cafes, and it’s been hit by a deluge of tourists. You shouldn’t miss visiting Rudra Cafe when in Kasauli. This quaint little cafe on Mall Road is our favorite. Try their grilled sandwiches with a steaming cup of coffee.

Kasauli Resort, Kasauli Castle Resort, and Welcom Heritage Glenview Resort Kasauli are three of the best properties to stay in Kasauli.

You can cover the famous Timber Trail in Parwanoo on your way from Chandigarh to Kasauli. It’s a sight detour, though, worth an effort.

As you enter the Shivalik range, you cannot miss Timber Trail, a resort in the tranquil beauty. Timber Trail is particularly famous for the cable car ride that takes you to Timber Heights, a resort perched on the top of a mountain.

With breathtaking views of the lush green mountains, it is cherished by all.

You can spend a day with multiple activities and head to Kasauli in the evening. We suggest spending a night at Timber Heights to make the most of your time. Cable car tickets cost INR 1250 for adults and INR 1000 for kids.

Distance – 288 km

How to Reach: It is best to drive to Kasauli in your own car or book a cab; the journey takes about 5-6 hours. Or you can board the Kalka Shatabdi at the nearest station, Kalka, and hire a taxi. The nearest airport is Chandigarh.

Shimla

The Queen of Hills, Shimla, has been popular since the British era. Once the British summer capital, it remains a favorite destination, attracting tourists seeking to beat the summer heat.

With proximity to Chandigarh, it is a beautiful drive up the hills. With the Chandigarh-Shimla expressway under construction, travel will be smooth. As you approach the hill station, the air becomes crisp.

Mall Road is a place buzzing with people and activity. Walk up to Christ Church, one of the oldest churches in India. Looking for souvenirs to take back home? Then, Lakkar Bazaar is the place to be.

Lakkar means ‘wood,’ so you will find a wide range of handcrafted wooden decorative items in this market.

I feel that with close attention to Mall Road and the Ridge, a beautiful building gets sidelined. Once the house of the Viceroy and even a summer retreat for the Indian President, the Indian Institute of Advanced Studies is a delight to visit.

The exquisite teak furnishings and interiors are a treat for the eyes. The well-maintained lawns enhance the building’s beauty.

Jakhoo Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. It is a very steep and adventurous drive to the temple. Mindful of the monkeys that try to snatch away stuff from your hands.

Distance – 340 km

How to Reach – Delhi to Shimla is about 8 hours by car via NH1. You can even board the Kalka – Shimla Toy train, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, from the Kalka railway station. There are direct trains from New Delhi to Kalka station. There are a few flights from Delhi to Shimla as well. Or you can join a 2-day private tour from Delhi to Shimla.

Kasol: One of the Most Beautiful Places Near Delhi for a Weekend

Kasol, a charming little hamlet in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh, is worth a long 512 km drive from Delhi. Kasol is nestled in the Parvati Valley, a steep, narrow valley that starts at Bhuntar, where the Parvati River and the River Beas meet. The valley is dotted with many pretty villages, including Kalga, Pulga, Manikaran, Tosh, Barshiani, Malana, and Kasol.

Often referred to as ‘Mini Israel’, Kasol has a hippie vibe. From walking along the Parvati River, trekking to Kheer Ganga, and relishing Israeli food, to exploring the intriguing villages of Malana, Tosh, Kalga, and Pulga, and visiting the holy site of Manikaran, Kasol has no dearth of things to do and see for every kind of traveler.

Don’t look for fancy cafes or restaurants in Kasol. The charm of Kasol lies in its hole-in-the-wall eateries and tiny cafes with outdoor seating. We recommend ‘The Evergreen’ and ‘Turquoise Cafe Kasol’ to try Israeli food.

We stayed at Parvati Kuteer and recommended it. It’s a nice accommodation right on the bank of the Parvati River.

Consider April, May, October, and November for planning a trip to Kasol.

Distance – 512 km

How to Reach – A drive from Delhi to Kasol can take 8 to 10 hours, depending on the number of pit stops. A bus takes more time (sometimes up to 14 hours) and drops you at Bhuntar, from where you can take another bus or cab to Kasol. You can even take a flight from Delhi to Bhuntar Airport (Kullu Airport), which is just 30 km from Kasol.

Dharamshala

A hill station nestled in Dhauladhar-clad mountains is a great place to relax and unwind from the hustle and bustle of city life.

A must-visit is the Dharamshala cricket stadium, with the Dhauldhar Range overlooking the stadium. With breathtaking views, a manicured green field, it is the World’s highest stadium. Chamunda Devi temple, a Shakti Peeth, is also 15 km from the city.

Since McLeodganj is 10 km from Dharamshala, it is a good idea to explore both together.

Distance – 460 km

How to Reach – It takes about 9 hours to drive from Delhi. There are many regular buses available from Delhi. There are many direct flights available from Delhi to Dharamshala as well.

This 4-day Dharamshala-McLeodganj tour lets you explore both beautiful towns in Himachal Pradesh.

McLeodganj: One of the Most Cultural Places to Visit Near Delhi for a Weekend

McLeodganj, a hill station in Dharamshala, is also the headquarters of the Tibetan government-in-exile. It is the home of His Holiness, the Dalai Lama, and hence a blend of Tibetan and Indian culture.

A vibrant and colorful city with prayer flags fluttering and prayer wheels turning charms visitors from all around the world.

Namgyal Monastery, the largest Tibetan temple outside Tibet and the abode of the Dalai Lama, is a must-visit. With the vast Buddha statue and monks in maroon robes chanting their prayers, the place has a calm and serenity that touches your soul.

Don’t miss the food here; many Tibetan restaurants serve thukpas, momos, and other delicacies. With an influx of travelers from around the world, the culinary scene is evident, with many cafes and restaurants serving food from all over.

If you love nature and adventure, McLeodganj is a good starting point for treks to Triund, Bhagsu Falls, Kareri Village, and more.

Distance – 475 km

How to Reach: It takes about 10 hours to drive from Delhi to McLeod Ganj. Many buses start from Delhi. This place is excellent if visiting on a long weekend and visiting Dharamshala. Another great way is to take a train from Delhi to Pathankot station, which is around 90km from McLeodganj. The nearest airport is Dharamshala.

Palampur: Beautiful Tea Plantations Near Delhi

From lush rolling tea gardens and ancient temples and churches to breathtaking views of the Dhauladhar Mountains, Palampur in Himachal Pradesh makes for a perfect weekend getaway from Delhi.

The weather is at its best in summer, and thus, it gets touristy. Famously known as the Tea Capital of Northwest India, Palampur’s charm lies in the mighty snow-dusted Dhauladhars.

Other things to do in Palampur include the Tea Gardens, Tea Estates, the Church of St John, Kayakalp (Himalayan Research Institute for Yoga and Naturopathy), Tashijong Monastery, Kangra Fort, Baijnath Shiva Temple, and Chamunda Devi. There are hiking opportunities for hikers.

My favorite memory of Palampur remains our visit to the little artistic village of Andretta. Just 13 km away from Palampur, Andretta is home to the oldest pottery studio in India, Andretta Pottery.

You can experience a hands-on pottery-making session with the help of a host and create your own pottery. Our host, Shubham, was kind enough to make us feel as if we created the piece 🙂 Book this guided tour of Andretta for an all-inclusive, beautiful experience.

Bir is just about 30 km from Palampur. Bir Billing is famous for its Buddhist monasteries, stupas, and paragliding. Bir has the second-highest paragliding site in the world.

Our stay at Jyoti Niwas Homestay in Aweri was super cool. We loved every bit of it.

Distance – 485 km

How to Reach – Located 485 km northwest of Delhi, it takes a little over 9 hours to reach Palampur from Delhi. There are many HPSRTC and Volvo buses that depart from ISBT, Delhi, for Palampur. The nearest railway station is Pathankot, 83km away.

Agra: A World-Famous Weekend Destination Near Delhi

The city of the Taj, a dream for all travelers, is the destination that everyone dreams of traveling to someday. And how lucky we are to live in Delhi, that it is just 4 hours away and makes for a great weekend destination as well as a quick day trip.

Visiting the Taj Mahal, you are smitten by its opulence and majestic beauty that simply can’t be expressed. You have to see to experience it.

The intricate carvings on the ivory marble and the perfect backdrop of the river Yamuna – the best time to visit one of the wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal, is morning.

But Agra has so much more that cannot be missed. The UNESCO World Heritage site, Agra Fort, is a red sandstone fort spread across 94 acres and is a work of architectural grandeur.

And if you are a food lover, then Agra will not disappoint you. There are delicacies that you should not miss.

A popular breakfast item, a local’s favorite is Bedai aloo (a stuffed, crisp-fried bread served with spicy potato gravy) at Sri Dauji Mishthan Bhandar. People in Agra love chaat, so don’t miss your share of gol gappa and aloo tikkis at Sadar Bazaar.

How can you leave without eating the famous sweet Petha at the Panchi Petha?

Distance – 230 km

How to Reach – The best way is to drive on the Yamuna Expressway from Delhi for a super-smooth journey in under 4 hours. There are multiple trains from Delhi to the city of Taj. Alternatively, you can take this 2-day weekend tour from Delhi to Agra.

Fatehpur Sikri

Emperor Akbar, around the 16th century, built Fatehpur Sikri, a short-lived capital of the Mughal Empire. Just an hour away from Agra, this historic city echoes the stories of days gone by.

The city is well-known for its Mughal-era monuments and ruins, which earned it UNESCO World Heritage Site status.

The red sandstone monuments exhibit a striking mix of Hindu and Mughal architecture. You can see the reflection of the rich culture and traditions of the Mughal era in those ruins. The most notable buildings are Buland Darwaza, Jama Masjid, Tomb of Salim Chishti, Diwan-E-Khas, Diwan-E-Aam, Panch Mahal, Jodha Bai Palace, Birbal Bhawan, Ibadat Khana, and Hujra-I-Anup Talao.

Winter (October- March) is the best time to explore Fatehpur Sikri. Avoid the summer months of June and July as North India reels under scorching heat during that time of the year.

Fatehpur Sikri is about 242 km from Delhi and just 36 km from Agra, one of the three famous cities that make up India’s Golden Triangle tourist circuit.

You can easily club Fathepur Sikri with Agra as a weekend trip from Delhi.

Please stay away from men who try to help you without you asking for it. These Good Samaritans are most likely frauds.

If you need to hire a guide to understand the place’s history, hire only a government-certified guide. You’d find them at the ticket counter.

Tip: You can easily club Fatehpur Sikri on a trip from Delhi to Agra.

Keoladeo National Park, Bharatpur

Keoladeo Ghana National Park, also known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, is located in Bharatpur, Rajasthan. One of India’s famous national parks, it’s strategically located between the two historic cities of Jaipur and Agra.

Just about 221 km from Delhi, 4 hours to reach Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We clubbed it with a visit to Agra and Fatehpur Sikri on an extended weekend. You can do that too!

The best way to travel to Keoladeo is in your own car, though there are several bus and train routes from Delhi to Bharatpur. The nearest airport is the Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Airport in Agra.

The best time to visit Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is during the winter season (October to March) when you can spot migratory birds from all across the world here.

Comprised of dry grasslands, wetlands, and woodland swamps, the bird sanctuary is home to around 375 species of birds along with a variety of species of fish, snakes, turtles, lizards, invertebrates, and flora. It had been the wintering ground of rare and elusive Siberian cranes, but they haven’t been sighted in the park since 2001.

You can spot the birds – herons, storks, cormorants, warblers, sauras crane, babblers, bee-eaters, bulbuls, buntings, Painted francolins, quails, Indian grey hornbill, Marshall’s Iora, osprey, peregrine,  Imperial eagle, spotted eagle, crested serpent eagle, to name a few.

Apart from birds, you can spot mammals – Nilgai, Chital, Sambar, Indian Porcupine, Indian Gray Mongoose, Jungle Cat, Fishing Cat, civet, Jackals, and striped hyenas.

The entry fee is INR 25 for Indian nationals and INR 200 for foreign nationals. You need to pay an extra INR 50 per vehicle (if you intend to drive in) and INR 200 for a video camera.

Make sure to carry a pair of Binoculars. You can walk the entire trail (the park isn’t that big) or hire a rickshaw, which also serves as a guide.

We stayed at Laxmi Vilas Palace. It’s a lovely property with proximity (5-minute drive) to Keoladeo National Park.

PS: You can explore Bharatpur Palace, Lohagarh Fort, Deeg Palace, and the Keoladeo National Park.

Dehradun

Dehradun, a valley nestled between the Himalayas and the Shivalik range, is an old city with links to Ramayana and the Mahabharat.

Forest Research Institute Museum, or FRI, in short, is an iconic building in Dehradun. Not just iconic, but one of the most beautiful buildings that I have seen. Completing 90 years a few days back, this institute stands tall with history and information etched in its books.

Another hidden gem in Dehradun is the ONGC Oil Museum, a must-visit. Dehradun is famous for its rice, and bakeries are famous for rusk and milk toffees.

Distance – 255 km

How to Reach: It takes around 5 hours to drive from Delhi to Dehradun via Saharanpur. There are many regular trains, including the Shatabdi, plying between the two stations. Regular flights are also available between the cities.

Mussorie

A beautiful hill station, 35 km away from Dehradun, is a popular destination to beat the Delhi heat.

Stroll on Mall Road and enjoy the eateries. If you’re a book lover who loves to read Ruskin Bond books, Mussorie might be lucky for you. If you are visiting on Saturday, you might get a chance to meet the author himself.

We enjoyed the weather and relaxed at Mall Road. There are places like Kempty Falls and George Everest’s house that are famous tourist spots, but we didn’t appreciate the crowd and hype.

We had heard a lot about George Everest’s house, but it was not worth the visit. The road is in a dilapidated condition; it’s barely recognizable as a road. When you reach the top of the mountain, there are shattered house remains. Some people hike to George Everest’s peak to view the Himalayas.

Do try the omelets at Lovely Omelette Center and pastries and biscuits at Ellora’s Melting Moments Bakery.

Tip: Book this amazing weekend tour from Delhi to Dehradun and Mussoorie.

Jim Corbett National Park: One of the Most Adventurous Weekend Trips From Delhi

Jim Corbett National Park, India’s oldest national park (since 1936), is located in Ramnagar in Uttarakhand. Formerly known as Hailey National Park, it was renamed in 1955 after India-born British-Irish naturalist Edward James Corbett, aka Jim Corbett.

Just about 245 km from Delhi, Jim Corbett can be easily reached by rail or road, but as always, we recommend traveling by car.

Under the Project Tiger initiative, Corbett Tiger Reserve is known to have the highest number of Royal Bengal Tigers. Meaning, the chances of tiger sightings are high, and that makes it one of the best places for wildlife enthusiasts.

You can also see leopards, spotted deer, sambar, otter, Himalayan black bear, and Indian gazelle during the safari. Bird watchers can spot a variety of migratory and local birds.

Five zones of Jim Corbett, viz. Dhikala, Bijrani, Jhirna, Dhela, and Durgadevi are open to the public for the safari. Dhikala, Dhela, and Bijrani zones are counted among the best zones for tiger sightings.

Sitabani Buffer Zone, a forest reserve, is popular among tourists for its dense forests, crystal-clear streams, and ancient temples. Though outside the Jim Corbett reserve, it’s open to Jim Corbett’s visitors.

The national park offers Elephant Safari, Canter Safari, and Jeep Safari. Jeep Safaris are the best way to see tigers.

Apart from safari, you can also indulge in the varied adventure activities at the park – trekking, fishing, mountain biking, and river rafting. Visitors can also enjoy a nature walk and bird-watching.

Just 45 minutes from Jim Corbett, Kaladhungi houses the Corbett Museum. Edward James Corbett’s former home, the museum, offers insight into the life and times of the legendary hunter and interesting information about the flora and fauna of the region.

There are many accommodation options in and around the national park. The boarding and lodging facilities are available zone-wise. The forest lodges or rest houses in the park tend to book fast. Indian and SAARC nationals should book at least 46 days in advance, while foreigners need to book 91 days in advance. If camping is your thing, you can find a lot of government as well as private camping sites.

We stayed outside the national park at Jim’s Jungle Retreat and loved it. Other good options are Aahana Resort and Rangers Reserve.

Wildlife seekers are advised to stay inside the park to make the most of their time. Please note that the jeep safari in the Dhikala zone is open only to visitors staying at the Dhikala rest house.

Best Tours from Delhi to Jim Corbett National Park

Nainital

Nainital, a beautiful hill town in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, is named after Naini Lake, the city’s most famous tourist attraction. It’s famously called the Lake District of India.

The best time to visit Nainital is during summer and spring (March to June). Snow lovers can plan a trip from November to February to enjoy the winter wonderland.

Some of the famous attractions in Nainital are Naini Lake, the Naini Peak (aka China Peak), the Mall Road, Nainital Zoo, Eco Cave Garden, and the Observatory, also known as the Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES).

Nainital is popular for its British-era schools and boarding schools.

You can also explore other beautiful and tiny hill resorts in the Nainital district – Haldwani (43 km), Kaladhungi (36 km), Ramnagar (65 km), Bhowali (13 km), Ramgarh (37 km), Mukteshwar (49 km), Bhimtal (24 km), Sattal (45 km), and Naukuchiatal (26 km).

We stayed at Soulitude in the Himalayas in Ramgarh and loved it to the core. Each room is tastefully decorated around a different theme, and they also have a beautiful library. It’s about 23 km from Nainital. You can explore most of the hill towns in the Nainital district while staying here.

We’d also recommend a beautiful, family-friendly property in Nainital: Bara Bungalow Gethia, Nainital – A Rosakue Collection.

You might consider booking this 2-day tour to Nainital from Delhi.

Lansdowne: A Serene 2-Day Trip from Delhi

Lansdowne, about 250 km from Delhi, is a picturesque little hill town in the Pauri district of Uttarakhand. The entire journey takes around 7 to 8 hours.

Kotdwar is the nearest bus and train station to Lansdowne. There are regular buses and trains from Delhi to Kotdwar. You can take a taxi or cab from Kotdwar to Lansdowne. As road trip junkies, we almost always prefer to drive unless it’s not an option. The drive from Delhi to Lansdowne is beautiful and doable via the Meerut-Pauri National Highway.

Lansdowne is one of those places where you want to unwind and relax, taking in the fresh air and sipping a hot tea.

But, if you’re a restless soul who must go out and explore, the best places to visit in Lansdowne include Bhulla Taal Lake, St. Mary’s Church, Bhim Pakora, Tip-n-Top Viewpoint, Hawaghar, Snow Viewpoint, Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple, Darwan Singh Sangaahalaya, and Kalagarh Tiger Reserve.

Blue Pine Resort and Vanvasa Resort are two of the best accommodation options in and around Lansdowne. Both the resorts serve good food but you must go out and try Pahadon wali Maggi ( (mandatory-when-in-mountains-Maggi) at one of the hole-in-the-walls. And try the Bohemian Lansdowne Trip – Travel Cafe!

Haridwar: One of the Most Spiritual Weekend Destinations From Delhi

Haridwar means ‘Hari Ka Dwar’, literally ‘the door to God’. The pious city is an essential pilgrimage for Hindus.

The Kumbh Mela, held every 12 years, is thronged by people from all around, not just Indians. It is a sight to see millions of people taking holy baths in the Ganga.

The city is an excellent stopover on the way to Rishikesh. Must not miss the Ganga aarti at Har ki Paudi in the evening. It takes you to another world, a peaceful, happier place. Sit by the ghat and see the diyas sparkle in the river. The whole experience is beyond words.

The city is also famous for lip-smacking vegetarian street food.

Distance – 220 km

How to Reach – Haridwar is an important pilgrimage destination; some regular buses and trains ply to the city from Delhi. The nearest airport to Haridwar is Dehradun, about 1 hour away.

Tip: This 2-Day Haridwar and Rishikesh tour from Delhi is the best way to explore two of Uttarakhand’s gems.

Rishikesh: One of the Most Soulful Weekend Destinations Near Delhi

A city by the banks of the river Ganga, it is the best destination to relax and get close to nature. This historic city is the birthplace of Ayurveda, a yoga and meditation destination, and the spiritual capital, pulling people from all around the world.

The best time to visit Rishikesh is from September to November and February to April.

Every picture of the city is incomplete without the Laxman Jhoola and the Ram Jhoola, the iron suspension bridges. These architectural marvels have been famous tourist spots with people walking over them and enjoying the might of the Ganga. Unfortunately, the iconic Laxman Jhoola has been closed to the public after about 90 years.

The Triveni Ghat, on the banks of the Ganga, is a pilgrimage site and special because it marks the confluence of the three famous rivers – Ganga, Yamuna, and Sarawati. The aarti in the evening is a must-attend that takes you to another world. There are many ashrams and temples, such as the Mahadev temple, worth visiting.

For adventure seekers, rafting through the Ganga’s rapids is a thrilling experience.

The best time to visit for river rafting is late September to mid-November.

There are many spas and ayurvedic treatment centers that offer a variety of treatments.

You cannot leave the city without treating yourself to simple and delicious vegetarian food. Eat at the famous Chotiwala restaurant.

Probably the peace and tranquility have been drawing people from all around the world, and you yearn to return to find peace from the stresses of your life.

Distance – 240 km

How to Reach – Rishikesh is approximately 5 hours from Delhi via Haridwar. Some regular buses and trains ply between the cities.

Gwalior: One of the Most Historical and Cultural Places to Visit Near Delhi for a Weekend

Best known for its impressive hilltop fort, Gwalior is home to a rich and storied cultural, spiritual, and musical heritage. History comes alive in its lanes, forts, palaces, temples, and tombs.

The Gwalior Fort, made of sandstone, stands tall and strong at the top of the hillock in the city, echoing tales of valor. An interesting way to experience the story is through the evening light-and-sound show.

There are numerous palaces, temples such as the Sun Temple, and other structures within the fort that are worth visiting and admiring.

Another structure that is a perfect example of opulence and grandeur is the Jai Vilas Palace. The House of the Scindia dynasty boasts a silver toy train that chugs across the dining table and grand chandeliers.

Gwalior is also the birthplace of the legendary Tansen, a famous singer and a Navratan in King Akbar’s court. The tomb of Tansen is situated in the city.

If Gwalior is your destination, then read a detailed post on the Best places to visit in Gwalior to plan a perfect weekend getaway from Delhi.

Well, the list can go on and on. Delhi, being the center of the country, has a wide range of options that you are spoilt for choice.

We hope our round-up of the 20 best weekend getaways from Delhi helps you plan a perfect weekend escape. Did we miss any places near Delhi for the weekend that you think deserve to be included in this list? Let us know in the comments below.

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