10 BEST GET-AWAYS AROUND DELHI

The majesty of the soaring Himalayas, mystical legacy of cultures & traditions, silver waters of fast flowing rivers, murmurs of lush green forests and a traveller’s desire for peace and solace. The words themselves are enough to fill you with wanderlust. If you are looking forward to pack for a quick and pleasant mini weekend vacation near Delhi, this ultimate list is answer to all your needs. Be it an adventurous activity to pump up your adrenaline rush or a peaceful getaway to rejuvenate your body and soul, we have got everything sorted for you.

1. SOHNA

Situated on the Gurgaon- Alwar highway, this place is an easily accessible popular weekend destination, especially, for Delhi- NCR residents. It lies in the foothills of the Aravalis, surrounded by a hilly terrain. Visit Sohna to enjoy hot water springs located at the ancient Shiva Temple.

Main Attractions:

1. Damdama Lake- Known for boating and its striking surroundings, Damdama Lake is mainly fed by monsoon rains. The water in this lake is usually 20 feet deep which goes up to 50 feet during monsoons.

2. b) Sohna Lake and Water Springs- Believed to hold sulphur and other medicinal properties, the water springs are known to have cures for skin diseases of various kinds. The same natural healing therapy has now been modernised and given the name of Spa and Sauna that basically consists of steam baths.

3. c) Sohna or Bharatpur Hill Fort- If you’re a history enthusiast, do visit the ruins of this famous fort situated on the hilltop near Sohna town. It has been demolished and built again multiple times and is a perfect place for an evening outing.

Distance From Delhi: 54 kilometres via NH 48

Best Time to Visit: October to March

2. LANSDOWNE

Looking for a secluded, untouched and unspoilt destination? Then Lansdowne is definitely your place. Lansdowne proudly makes it on the list of most beautiful weekend getaways from Delhi. The hill top has breath-taking and mesmerising views.

Main Attractions:

1. Bhulla Lake- A serene place to be, Bhulla Lake is one of the famous picnic spots in Lansdowne maintained by the Indian army. It has boating facilities to keep travellers engaged and entertained.

1. Jungle Safari- If you’re a nature and animal lover, do explore the wilderness of Lansdowne. Jump on the jungle safari and witness a diverse range of Himalayan wild animals resting in their natural habitat.

1. Bhim Pakora- Take a short downhill trek of 2 kilometres and you will reach the magical Balancing Stones. These can be moved by a finger but they never fall down.

Activities: Trekking, Mountaineering, Bird Watching, Boating, Paddling and Jungle Safari

Distance From Delhi: 260 kilometres via NH 534

Best Time to Visit: March to June

3. NAUKUCHIATAL

Naukuchiatal is a small village, famous for its 9 cornered lake that measures 1 kilometre and is 40 feet deep. A famous local saying goes by that if one manages to get a glimpse of all the nine corners, with both feet on earth, the person will fade away in smoke to achieve nirvana. Naukuchiatal is blessed with panoramically splendid surroundings and a pleasant weather throughout the year.

Main Attractions:

1. Junglia Gaon- A paradise for photographers, this place truly describes solitude. It is a must visit for nature lovers and an ideal spot for bird watching and wildlife photography.

2. Mukteshwar- Built by the Britishers to serve as a research and education institute, Mukteshwar, today is famous for 350 years old Shiva Temple lying on the top of the mountain peak.

1. Hanuman Temple- With Mountains in the background along with beautiful valley, devotees at this temple are welcomed by a statue of Lord Hanuman standing 52 feet high right at the entrance. The artificial caves lead to Vaishnav Devi Shrine.

Activities: Boating, Sightseeing, Nature Walks

Distance From Delhi: 299 kilometres

Best Time to Visit: March- June and September- November

4. Garhmukhteshwar

Garhmukteshwar is your place to be if you wish to take a dip in the holy river Ganga. It lies on the Delhi- Moradabad route and is also an access point for Unchagaon. Being mentioned in Bhagvat Purana and the Mahabharata, this place is of great historical importance. Garhmukteshwar is famous for 80 Sati pillars.

Main Attractions:

1. Garhmukteshwar holds a bathing fair on the full moon day of Kartik month. About 6 Lakhs devotees from all over the world come to have a dip in the holy water of Ganga.

Activities: Pilgrimage, Holy Dip in the Ganges, Local Sightseeing and Boat Rides

Distance From Delhi: 109 kilometres via NH 09

Best Time to Visit: October to March

5. MATHURA

This religious hub in Uttar Pradesh has a vibrant culture that reflects what India is all about. Also referred to as "Brajbhoomi', Mathura is the birthplace of Lord Krishna and is situated on the Yamuna banks. Vishram Ghat is considered as the holiest one out of the total 25 Ghats. Mathura is a pilgrim centre and is rich with mythological stories.

Main Attractions:

1. Krishna Janma Bhoomi Mandir- This temple is of great historical importance. It is believed to be the birthplace of Hindu Lord Krishna. Frequented by thousands of tourists each year, the best time to be here is during the festivals of Janmashtami and Holi.

1. Jama Masjid- It is regarded as one of the major historical monuments in entire Uttar Pradesh. The mosque houses the tomb of Mughal governors. Jama Masjid is located close to the aforementioned Krishna Janma Bhoomi Mandir and can be visited on the same day.

2. Kusum Sarovar- Kusum Sarovar is a 450 feet long and 60 feet deep reservoir located near Radha Kunj. It is believed that Krishna's consort Radha met him for the first time near this tank. The major attraction of this place is the evening Aarti and is the perfect time to capture the essence of this place.

Activities: Janmashtami, Holi, Temple Visits, Sightseeing, Boating and Food Sampling

Distance From Delhi: 182.3 kilometers via Taj Express Highway

Best Time to Visit: October to April

6. RISHIKESH

Situated in the Himalayan foothills beside Holy River Ganga, the beauty of Rishikesh tempts every traveller. Rishikesh has emerged as the hub of adventure sports in India. It has also gained popularity for studying yoga and meditation. The temples and ashrams are centres for spiritual studies.

Main Attractions:

1. Laxman Jhula- The popular hanging bridge is situated 70 feet above the River Ganga and is 450 feet long. The bridge connects two villages, Tapovan and Jonk, crossing the river from west to east. The construction of various grand temples around the Jhula has made it one of the most visited places in Rishikesh.

2. White Water Rafting- Rishikesh is the first place to strike mind when we think of white water rafting. Rafting here is fun and adventurous with rapids of 3+ levels.

1. Triveni Ghat- A confluence of three holy significant rivers of India, the Ganges, the Yamuna, and the Saraswati, the Ghat is believed to be one of the most sacred bathing spots in Rishikesh. It is situated on the banks of river Ganga.

Activities: White Water Rafting, Bungee Jumping, Flying Fox, Mountain Biking

Distance From Delhi: 242 kilometres via NH 334

Best Time to Visit: Early March to first week of May and late September to mid-November for River Rafting

7. NEEMRANA FORT PALACE

Neemrana is an ancient historical town located on Delhi- Jaipur highway in Alwar district of Rajasthan. It is situated between Behror and Shahjahanpur and is at a distance of 72 km from Alwar, 147 km from Jaipur and 121 km from New Delhi. It is one of the top most destinations amongst popular tourist places to visit for a day trip. Main Attractions:

1. Neemrana Fort Palace - Neemrana town is famous for its magnificent palace which was built in 1464 AD and occupied by the Chauhans till 1947. Neemrana Fort Palace, one of the Rajasthan's oldest heritage luxury hotels, is located on a high hillock and commands magnificent views of the surrounding valley. The Neemrana Fort Palace is spread over 25 acres of land while the 10 storey palace is built over 3 acres of land. In the year 1986, this palace underwent restoration and was transformed into a hotel.

Activities: Zip Lining, Camel Ride

Distance From Delhi: 120 kilometres

Best Time to Visit: July to March

8. MUSSOORIE

The hill station, famous for its colonial heritage and religious sites, has been a popular weekend getaway near Delhi. It also has grown into a destination famous for scenic views and lush green fields. It is a perfect blend of nature with well-constructed colonial style monuments.

Main Attractions:

1. Lal Tibba- It is located on the highest hill of Mussoorie and is highly recommended to travellers who are fond of panoramic hill views. Spot popular places like Kedarnath, Baderpunch, and Badrinath using a telescope.

1. Lake Mist- Capture this picture perfect location with a view of emerald like Water Lake covered by green forest terrains. It is an ideal place to spend some quality time with loved ones and is surely one of the best activities to indulge in.

1. Kempty Falls- These falls are actually located between Dehradun and Mussoorie roads. It is a beautiful location and will make you want to take a dip in the falling waters from a great height.

1. Paragliding and Trekking- Mussoorie has proven to be a great adventure sports destination. Every traveller must experience paragliding to cherish the scenic views of the hill station.

Activities: Trekking, Nature Walks, Bird Watching, Boating, Ropeway Rides and Temple Visits

Distance From Delhi: 280 kilometres via Saharanpur-Delhi Road

Best Time to Visit: September-June

9. DEHRADUN

The capital city of Uttarakhand is located in Doon Valley at the foothills of the Himalayas. This town is bordered by the Ganges and Yamuna Rivers of India. The city is known for its pleasant climate and is a connecting spot to the popular hill stations like Nainital and Mussoorie.

Main Attractions:

1. Sahastradhara- Sahastradhara meaning the ‘Thousand Fold Spring’ is a popular tourist destination in Dehradun. It comprises of waterfalls, caves and huge farming lands and provides a marvellous and refreshing experience to tourists.

1. Tiger Falls- Situated amidst a picturesque setting of dense forests at the foothills of the Himalayas, the falls are located at a height of 1400 meters above sea level and is 50 meters high. They are worth visiting by every traveller.

1. Robbers’ Cave- The cave is divided into two main parts with its highest fall being 10 meters long. It is known for its unique natural phenomenon known as the disappearing stream and was believed to be used by the robbers to hide during the British Raj hence got its name.

Activities: Temple Visit, Trekking, Wildlife Tours, Educational Trips, Ice Skating and Sightseeing

Distance From Delhi: 246 kilometres via Saharanpur-Delhi Road

Best Time to Visit: March to June

10. JAIPUR

The glorious stucco buildings on the streets of Jaipur give away the name “pink city” to this place. Home to opulent palaces, holy temples and ancient fort, the city retains its cultural heritage even today.

Main Attractions:

1. Hawa Mahal- Hawa Mahal is one of the most iconic landmarks and is also called the “Palace of Winds”, where the royal queen rested and observed the activities on the streets through the lattice work openings. This monument depicts the Mughal style architecture and is a must visit for all.

1. Nahargarh Fort- Built for the royal family, this fort has a main palace within it called as the “Madhavendra Bhavan.” There are also nine other double storied living spaces that make up a huge part of the fort.

1. Amber Fort- The Fort’s size and structure both is bound to mesmerise you. Build in the Mughal style architecture, the golden frontage is an elite representation completed with hand painted walls and mirror work ceilings.

1. City Palace- Depicting a typical Rajput style architecture, this palace is filled with layers of chambers and halls. A part of the palace remains the residence of the royal family even today but the other areas are open to tourists.

1. Jantar Mantar- An observatory site containing world’s largest sundial, Jantar Mantar is a UNESCO world heritage site and is designed to make the astronomical observations simpler through naked eyes.

Distance From Delhi: 296 kilometres via NH 48

Best Time to Visit: October to March

11. NAINITAL (A bonus place for those who read the article till last)

This hill station has managed to attract people from all over India and abroad owing to its charming natural attractions and pleasant climate throughout the year. It is famous for its lakes, nature and is a paradise for photographers.

Main Attractions:

1. Naini Lake- Naini Lake is the heart of Nainital. It is situated in the middle of the town and has boating facilities for visitors. The serene surrounding refreshes the mind like no other place.

1. Naina Peak- Referred to as China Peak or Cheena by the locals, it is the highest peak and a popular trekking spot in Nainital. The hilltop offers one of the best panoramic views of the valleys and entire Nainital.

2. Tiffin Point- Tiffin Point is a famous spot that offers travellers a great view of the Himalayas along with Nainital. The place is named after an English painter Dorothy who used to sit at the spot and paint. This spot, therefore, is also called as Dorothy’s seat.

1. G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo- A must visit place for animal lovers, the zoo has several exotic and endangered species of animals and birds that are native to the region. A few of these to name are a snow leopard, Himalayan bear, and Tibetan wolf.

Distance From Delhi: 301 kilometres via NH 09

Best Time to Visit: March to June

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