Getaways Near Delhi
Plop yourself into the tranquillity, flee from the metropolitan rumpus, explore, the thrilling, exotic, atavistic, destinations to get away from the everyday hassles and rejuvenate yourself in the arms of nature. There are innumerable places around Delhi, to discover. So, before the time slips away, here is the listicle of 20 incredible places, where you can spend your weekend as a cherishing vacation.
Near By Delhi
1. Ranikhet
“Queen Meadow “, Ranikhet is a small and serene cantonment town, which totally wins the heart of tourist. Surrounded by the pretty Victorian buildings, and cottages, the place will make you experience the true English touch. Orchids of apple, plums and peaches, Pine, Oak, and Deodar trees, splendid beauty of nature, salubrious weather, all conspire you to stay a little bit more to Ranikhet. Apart from sublime natural hues, it is the topmost place for the people who love sports activities.
Major Tourist Attraction
Jhoola Devi Temple – An ancient temple, built in the 8th century, unfurls mythological tales of Goddess Durga. It is said that whoever ties a bell on the wall of a temple, it is also believed that whosoever ties a bell on the temple wall, is granted with his/her wish.
Sunrise/ Sunset point – Sitlakhet is located at a distance approximately 30 km from Ranikhet. Wonderful view of rising sun, behind the snow-capped Himalayan ranges, leaves you spellbound.
Chaubita Orchards – One of the most pristine locations of Ranikhet, “Chaubatia Garden”, is quite famous for orchards of apricots, plums and peaches. Just at a distance of 10 km and you will reach the happiest place for the picnics and day outings with families and friends. You can also spot the step farming in the Himalayan region in some areas for this garden.
Other attractions
Haidakhan Temple, Upat Golf Course, Majkhali, Bhalu Dam, Mankameshwar Temple, Tarikhet Village.
Distance from Delhi: 357.0 km via NH9
Best Time to visit: All year ( Dec-May)
Nearest Airport/ Railway Station: Pantnagar Airport/ Ramnagar railway station
2. Agra
Just thought to visit the Agra, and what’s the second thing pop’s up in anyone’s mind is too see the astonishing beauty built by Shah Jahan for his beloved Mumtaz, i.e., Taj Mahal, the perennial beauty that leaves the visitor awestruck. Built by the Mughal Dynasty, Taj is not the sole attraction of this place, many alluring forts and palaces, Baghs, Majids, temples, generate the rich history of emperors ruled here. For the people who have a keen interest in historical Architecture and structures, no wonder you are fall in love with its impeccable beauty and fascinating history.
Major Tourist Attraction
Taj Mahal – No wonder, to visit Taj Mahal, is a wish for every rover of this world. One of the renowned monument across the whole world, it is a symbol of love and poetry from the period of Mughal era.
Fatehpur Sikri– Built by the Great Mughal Emperor, it’s an epitome of an ancient city. People visit such a fascinating place to see how once the city of a renowned town diminishes into the ruins.
Agra Fort– It’s an amalgamation of various majestic forts and palaces. The façade of the fort is a typical Mughal Architecture, built by red sandstones that lies parallel to the Yamuna River. The fortress is, and there are lawns within it, no doubt this historical site is magical, in refinement, building, beauty & strength.
Mehtab Bagh –. Well, the chaarbagh is originated with a different purpose, Shah Jahan wants to build a black Taj Mahal as his own mausoleum. However, this could not be achieved. Now To enjoy the stunning view of Taj Mahal at the time of sunset, visit Mehtab Bagh.
Other attractions
Akbar’s Tomb, Itimad-ud-daula’s tomb, Moti Masjid, Nagina Masjid, Shish Mahal (Glass Palace), Iama Masjid, Jahangir Palace.
Distance From Delhi: Approx 233.0 km ( from Taj / Yamuna Expressway)
Best Time to visit Agra: November – March
Nearby Airport and Railway Station – Kheria airport is 13 km away from Agra city, Agra Cantt railway station.
3. Pushkar
With a bountifulness of religious sites, this holy place is well known for a splendid view of the colourful street with art and culture, homely villages and locals, sacred lakes, 52 bathing ghats and nearly about 400 temples; this town is filled with the spirituality in its air. Devotionals songs, pujas, religious chants, frame’s Pushkar to be the most visited pilgrim’s tourist spot. Not only this, experience shopping in Pushkar Bazaar and you will find exquisite silver jewellery, artefacts made of mud, bandhani sarees and dupattas. One can relish the royal camel safari rides, Pushkar fairs, adventure desert camps, horse riding, Pushkar international balloon festival, and a lot more to pass their weekend blissfully.
Major Tourist Attraction
Lord Brahma Temple – It is highly believed that origin of this temple is 2000 years back according to Hindu Mythology. On the auspicious occasion of ‘Kartik Poornima’ visitors come around to attend aarti at Pushkar Lake.
Merta City– ( Birthplace of Meera Bai) This town has many temples, including Meera Bai temple, Charbhuja Temple is the prominent ones. Built by Emperor Aurangzeb, there is a massive mosque which was constructed over the ruined Shiva temple; it’s a worth to see the Mughal Architecture.
Other attractions
Local Villages, Savitri Temple, Pushkar Temple, Tour, Gayatri Temple, Pushkar Market, Pushkar Lake.
Distance from Delhi: Approx 414.8 km ( from NH21 and NH 48)
Best Time To visit: October – March
Nearby Airport and Railway Station: Sanganer Airport 146 km away from Jaipur, Ajmer Junction located of 11 km.
4. Mathura / Vrindavan
Being the most sacred destination of northern India Mathura is famous as “Brijbhoomi” ( Birthplace of Lord Krishna) worldwide. Both Vrindavan and Mathura is a holy shrine and a perfect holiday stopping place for Krishna devotees. One can easily find the tales and sagas of Lord Krishna hereLike most cities in Uttar Pradesh, Vrindavan is also one of the ancient cities that have been mentioned in the holy Hindu scriptures. Along with Mathura, Vrindavan is described as one of the twin holy cities. The name Vrindavan refers to an ancient forest that existed here, of which two smaller groves still exist. Being the place where Lord Krishna is considered to have spent his childhood Vrindavan is a significant pilgrim spot for the Hindus. Here’s the list of the must-visit places in Vrindavan.
Major Tourist Attraction
Sri Krishna Jagbhoomi Temple– This sacred place is known as a birthplace of the Lord Krishna, and once you visit you will come to know the tales behind the pilgrimage, as this place is to be stone prison of King Kans ( maternal uncle of Lord Krishna), another prison where Lord Krishna was born is also depicted in a room there.
Gita Mandir– This temple displays the 18 chapters of Bhagavad Gita, once you enter you can witness the sagas inscribed on the pillars of the temple. Also built with red sandstone, it’s a perfect blend of traditional Hindu and modern style of architecture.
Shri Krishna Balaram Mandir– One of the important ISKCON temples in India, this temple is divided into three altars, First altar there is an idol of Sri Sri Gaura Nitai, the incarnation of Nityananda Prabhu and Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu; the Second altar there are the deities of Sri Krishna and Balaram, And on the third altar there are the idols of Sri Sri Radha Shyamasundara and the gopis, Vishakha, and Lalita.
Shri Rangji Mandir- Built in the year of 1851, this is the largest temple in Vrindavan, there is specific restriction you have to face if you are a non-Hindu visitor.
Other attractions
Gopi Nath Temple, Prem Mandir, Dwarkadhish Temple, Kesava Deo Temple, Banke Bihari Mandir, Govind Devji Temple.
Distance from Delhi: For Mathura: 182.9 km from Yamuna Expressway, For Vrindavan: 182.8 km from Yamuna Expressway
Best Time To visit: All year
Nearby Airport and Railway Station – Agra Airport, Mathura railway Station
5. Rishikesh
Rishikesh is widely popular as the “Yoga Capital of the world” lies on the bank of the holy river Ganga. This sacred place attracts a wide number of not only pilgrimage tourist from all over the world, but also who love to seek adventure in High peek mountains. One can relish the picturesque view of Himalayas, relax rejuvenates and can meditate in Ayurveda centres, Hindu devotee finds solace in Ganga Artis and adventure junkies merely deduce this place as their second home. As there are a multiplicity of options to visit and adore this place. We render you the list of most prominent things to do in Rishikesh.
Other Tourist Attractions
Distance From Delhi: 242 kilometres via NH 334
Best Time to visit: For rafting September- to mid-November For sightseeing March to May
Nearest Airport / Railway Station: Jolly Grant airport at Dehradun / Rishikesh Railway Station or Haridwar Rail Junction
6. Ranthambore National Park
Ranthambore is renowned for tiger reserves and the wide variety of flora and fauna, you can spot the centuries-old Ranthambore Fort too which was built around in 10th century by Chauhan Dynasty, and now it comes under the UNESCO World Heritage Site. About the park, earlier it was the ground for Maharajas of Jaipur who performs hunting and poaching. As time flies, this place has become one of the largest National Wildlife Parks, which is popular amongst the wildlife and nature photographs.
Major Tourist Attraction
Flora And Fauna – This National park mainly has a large variety of banyan, dhok, jamun, aam, and imli trees that comes under the deciduous forest. Also one can spot an enormous range of birds, like Indian Gray Hornbills, Gulls, Terns, Great Crested Grebe, Eagles, Darters, Cormorants, Egrets, Herons, Kingfishers, Bee Eaters, Cuckoos, Greylag Goose, Woodpeckers, with this the best place to spot Diurnal tigers and marsh croc reptiles with Palm Squirrels, Indian False Vampires, Indian Flying Foxes, mongoose, Tigers, Leopards, Striped Hyenas, Sambar deer, Chital, Indian Wild Boar, Chinkara, Palm Civets or Toddy cat, Yellow Bats.
Distance From Delhi: 384 kilometres via RJ SH 25
Best Time To Visit: October to April
Nearest Airport/Railway Station – Jaipur Airport, about 145 km away/ Sawai Madhopur Railway Station at a distance of 11 km from the park.
7. Nanital
This city of lakes is counted as one of the most visited and most tranquil and refreshing hill stations. Tourist can visit this place at any time of the year because of its pleasant weather. Situated around the Kumaon hills, one can relish the nature’s bounty around Naini lake, and can also do the activity like boating. Gradually you can spot the places where adventure activities are organised these days.
Major Tourist Attraction
Bhimtal Lake – This place has two major attractions Garg Parvat, and Hidimba Parvat, one has the mesmerising view from its peak, and other has the lush green terrain respectively. Also, a big aquarium near the lake is worth a visit.
Naina Peak – Also known as China Peak, this is the highest peak, of the Himalayas, walking through roaming clouds around you and experiencing valley view and uprising clouds from the valley just make your visit memorable forever.
Snow view point – Absolutely heartwarming view of snow-capped mountains gives you the feeling of wonderland. Fantastic place for the adventure freaks, morning is the best time to pack your bag and go for hike.!
Other Major Attractions
Mukteshwar Temple, Naina Devi temple, Kainchi Dham, Nainital lake.
Distance From Delhi: 302.3 km via NH9
Best Time To Visit: Summers- March to June and in winters October to February
Nearest Airport/Railway Station – Pantnagar Airport is located from one hour drive from central station/ Kathgodham railway station
8. Chandigarh
Being the one of the gorgeous city of Northern India, Chandigarh is also known as the union territory of India. When you enter the Chandigarh, you are going to come across the hoarding written “welcome to the city beautiful” … Yes! This beautiful city has its peculiar way to welcome the tourist. This town is a heaven for the nature lovers, serene surroundings all around, birds chirpings and an absolutely lovely view of sunrise and sunset from sukhana lake is going to be cherishable in your memory
Major Tourist Attraction
Rock garden – Nek Chand establishes one of the uniquely designed gardens, rock garden. A surreal arrangement of rocks with an open-air exhibition made up of broken glasses, bangles, waste materials, coals and with so many different objects, beyond one’s imagination.
Rosegarden – A place where you can spot around 825 variety of roses, is a place you must visit if you are in Chandigarh. Musical fountains, the scent of roses in the atmosphere, calm your mind and souls. A place to visit with kids too.
Sukhana Lake – Entire place gives a fantastic rejuvenating feeling, one can visit early in the morning for a nice jog or walk and can enjoy the lovely view of Sunrise. Also, you can enjoy boat ride as well as can have some mouth-watering local Punjabi delicacies in the stand-alone outlets serving them. There is a charming courtyard around the cafe to sit and enjoy food with a good view.
Other attractions
Government museum and art gallery, Capitol complex, pinjore gardens, sec 17 markets.
Distance From Delhi: 246.7 km via NH 44
Best Time To Visit: Mid August to November
Nearest Airport/Railway Station – Chandigarh airport/ Chandigarh railway station
9. Kullu
Nestled in pristine water streams, it is known as the sister to town Manali. Manali is highly prevalent among the young and solo travellers, because of the numerous adventure sports activities like river rafting, trekking, mountaineering etc. and most of them are available at reasonable prices too! One of the most popular tourist spots, this place has the mesmerising view from its peak.
Major Tourist Attraction
Pandoh Dam– Located in a small rough road, here the narrow stretch of water host many water sports and adventure ones too. Over the past few years, Whitewater rafting has gained its popularity.
Raghunath Temple– It is a chief deity of Hindu dedicated to Lord Rama, and it is the centre of attraction in the international festival of Kullu known as Dussehra. The temple was constructed in 1660 AD with a mixed look of Pahari and Pyramidal style. Pilgrims do visit this place
Chandrakhani Pass– Expedition does not require too many things just a basic medical fitness check-up, due to its low altitude trek area. This incredible pass offers fabulous views to the Deo Tibba peak, Pir Panjal and Parbati range of mountains during the trek.
Other Major Attractions
Jagannath Temple, The Great Himalayan National Park, River rafting in Beas River
Distance From Delhi: 497 kilometres via NH 44
Best Time To Visit: October to June
Nearest Airport/Railway Station – Chandigarh Airport or Bhuntar Airport / Ambala cantt. or Jogindernagar Railway station.
10. Manali
A place counted as a highly visited tourist destination, every year more than 25 lakh visitors spend their vacations here. Manali has a hidden gem as a place called Naggar Town which has stunning Naggar Castle, that was once the residence of Raja Sidh Singh of Kullu, its subtle blend of traditional Himalayan and European architecture. Apart from this, Manali is the top-notch hill station, has a lovely surrounding, gushing streams, fragrance of pine trees, lush green dense forest, with innumerable tourist attractions, shopping arcade, shrines, bustling streets, hippie villages and a lot more.
Major Tourist Attraction
Rohtang Pass– Built over a huge rock which is worshipped as a representation of Hidimba, it consists of four wooden storeys. The walls of this temple are decorated only with stone and mud impressions and figurines of goddesses and animals. The interior of the temple is highly maintained at its original earthen glory much by keeping the natural beauty around the temple.
Solang Valley– A picturesque sight in Manali, host many winter adventure sports like skiing, parachuting, paragliding, trekking, and mountaineering. Trekkers immensely love this place. Also, winter skiing festival is also organised in Solang every year, and the activities like Zorbing, Horse riding & Snow Motor Bikes riding are offered here.
Beas Kund – For beginner’s this place is recommended firstly for trekking, that can be quickly done in 2 days. The area is enchanting panorama to behold, and the lake looks like a blue pearl, it’s a treat to the eyes during the journey of your trek.
Other attractions
Hadimba Temple, Hampta Pass, Manikaran Gurudwara, Manu Temple.
Distance From Delhi: 538 kilometres via Jammu-Delhi Road
Best Time To Visit: October to February.
Nearest Airport/Railway Station – Bhuntar Airport from here you can order a cab or taxi / Ambala Cantt is the nearest rail.
