As an office-going Dillwalah, I always face time-constraints in planning long vacations. For a person like me, a weekend getaway from Delhi is a perfect option. If one generally thinks about planning a holiday on weekends, places like Agra, Shimla, Jaipur and Bharatpur come-up. Only a privileged few are aware of some offbeat destinations for making such a small vacation, a memorable one. Based on my experience, here I havesummed-up 15 must see tourist places around Delhi:
Dundlod
Famous for – Forts and Havelis
Location- Shekhawati region of Rajasthan
Located at a distance of around 252 km from Delhi, Dundlod is a small historical town in the Jhunjhunu district of Rajasthan. Extremely popular for its forts and Havelis, the town looks like an open art gallery because of its beautiful painted mansions. A lesser-known tourist destination, it houses the majestic Dundlod Fort, which is a perfect combination of Mughal and Rajputana architecture styles. During your visit to this place, do not miss the other popular attractions as well, including Diwan Khana, Tuganram Goenka Haveli and the Chhatri of Ram Dutt Goenka. If you are a horse lover, then customized horse-safaris are organized by one of the family members.
Also Read: Best Resorts Near Delhi for Weekend Getaway
Pithoragarh
Famous for- Enchanting Scenery
Location- Pithorgarh district of Uttaranchal state
Pithoragarh is the next addition in the list of weekend getaways around Delhi, which is around 460 km from Delhi. A small hill station, it has been blessed with scenic beauty in abundance including lush mountains, serene atmosphere and scenic locations. Placed at an altitude of 1650 meters above the sea level, it is a perfect destination to forget all the stress of the city life. The place is perfect for nature lovers, mountaineers, trekking and skiing enthusiasts. A major sightseeing attraction is Pithorgarh fort, built by Gurkhas in 1789. Some of the other popular attractions include Dhwaj Shikhar, Thal Kedar, Kapileshwar Mahadev Temple and Chandak Hills.
Shoghi
Famous as/for- Hill Station/Temples
Location- Shimla District
Around 343 km away from Delhi, the hill town of Shoghi is also popular for housing a large number of temples. It is a small hill-town comprising of a small cluster of villages – each with a temple of its own. Some of the famous temples include Tara Devi temple, Hanuman temple and Kali temple. Calm and secluded, this hill station can be taken-up as a cheaper alternative to Shimla including attractions like Kufri, Jakhoo Hill and Viceregal Lodge. Popular for fruit products, syrups, jellies, pickles and juices, Shoghi also offers some amazing adventure opportunities. You can partake in activities like camping, trekking and bird watching.
Binsar
Famous for – Wildlife
Location- Almora district of Uttarakhand
Placed at a distance of 270 km from Delhi, Binsar is well-known for the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary. However, not many know that this beautiful hill station in the Jhandi Dhar hills in Kumaon has a number of temples as well. A major attraction within the wildlife safari is Zero Point, from where one can have a breathtaking view Himalayan peaks – Kedarnath, Shivling, Trishul and Nanda Devi. During your wildlife safari in the sanctuary, you spot a wide variety of flora and fauna. Some of the popular temples in Binsar that are a must-visit are the Kasar Devi temple and the Bineshwar Mahadev temple.
Munsiyari
Famous for- Trekking
Location- Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand
About 650 km from Delhi, Munsiyari is a small town, tucked away in the foothills of the mighty Himalayas. Placed on the banks of a river Goriganga, Munsiyari is nestled amidst a number of snow-clad mountains. Visited by nature enthusiasts, it also has some very beautiful waterfalls such as Birthy Falls and the popular Kala Muni Mandir. This offbeat destination is apt for short trip around Delhi, not only for its abundant natural beauty but also for offering some amazing trekking and mountaineering opportunities. Milam Trekk and the Ralam Glacier Trek and Namik Trek are the 2 main trek routes. You can also opt for camping and skiing. The months of March to June and September to October are the best times to visit.
Kausani
Famous as- Hill Station
Location- Bageshwar district of Uttarakhand
Renowned as Switzerland of India, the beautiful hill resort of Kausani is located at a distance of around 390 km from Delhi. One of the most mesmerizing hill stations in India, it is perched at an altitude of 1890 meters above the sea level. With a little over 300 people as inhabitants, this place becomes just the right destination for spending a peaceful vacation. You can take a walk in this village to treat your eyes to the lush beauty spread all around you. Sumitranandan Pant Gallery, Kasauni Tea Estate, Rudradhari Falls and Caves, Kot Bhramari Temple are some of the prime attractions of Kausani. If you are an adventure enthusiast, try your hand at trekking and mountain biking.
Must Read: top 10 Hill Stations near Delhi
Galta (Pilgrim)
Famous for- Pilgrimage centre
Location- Jaipur district of Rajasthan
Just a few minutes walk away from the Sisodia Rani-ka Bagh on the Agra Road, Galta is a popular pilgrimage centre, which is only 260 km away from India’s capital. An ancient temple complex, it is an important religious site. This place may be popular for its spiritual value but not many know that Galta is also home to a number of natural springs and other tourist attractions. During your visit, you must explore Galtaji temple, Sisodia Rani Garden, Galwar Bagh or Monkey Temple and the seven tanks, famed as the Galta Kund. Each and every attraction boasts of a striking architecture.
Pangot
Famous for- Scenery
Location- Kumaon region of Uttarakhand
Pangot is one of the best weekend getaways from Delhi looking for peace and to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The serene, charming hill town of Pangot lies 13 km from the very well-known hill station of Nainital. Lying in the Kumaon region, it is a perfect place to be, when the cities on the plains get scorching hot in the summer season. One of the most interesting activities in which one can partake here is bird watching wherein you can spot as many as 150 avifauna species. Kilbury and Snow View Point are famous as bird watching points. If you love snowfall and have never seen one, visit Pangot during the winter season between November and February. If trekking is one of your interests, you can trek from Pangot to the Naina Peak.
Mansa
Famous as – A historical town
Location- Mansa district in Punjab
Mansa is a small city in Punjab, which is just 294 km from Delhi. If you are tired of your chaotic city life and want to enjoy a peaceful vacation during the weekend, then your destination should be Mansa. The open spaces and the lush green fields are a real treat to the eyes and offer the visitors a pleasant ambience to rejuvenate their senses completely. Some of the main tourist attractions that you can visit here are Trivani Mandir, Hanuman Mandir, Budhlada, Samadhi of Bhai Gurdas, Shardulgarh Fort etc. The best time to visit and to savour the rich culture of this place is during March-April when the Mansa Fair is organized here.
Hansi
Famous for- An ancient historical town
Location- Hisar district of Haryana
If history is what excites you then you should pack your bags for Hansi, an ancient fort town in Haryana. This once affluent city, is popular for being home to a number of forts as well as monuments, which boast of a striking architecture. Situated at a distance of 174 km from Delhi, Hansi has several monuments that show the influence of the Rajputs, the Marathas and the British on their architecture. Asigarh Fort, Barsi Gate, Dargah Char Qutub and Gujari Mahal are some of Hisar’s major attractions. It is believed that this city consisted of a sword manufacturing company, set up Ruler Prithviraj Chauhan wherein the swords were exported to the Middle East.
Pilibhit
Famous for- History and Wildlife
Location- Pilibhit district in Uttar Pradesh
Placed at around 310 km northwest of Delhi in Uttar Pradesh, this destination is known for the origin of Gomti river. Pilibhit, translated to ‘Wall of Yellow Mud’, is known for housing a number of some interesting places. A tourist has a lot to indulge in, which not many would be aware of. You can explore the ancient historical sites, can visit the religious sites present here such as Gauri Shankar temple, Jama Masjid, Ardhanarishwar temple etc., can absorb the region’s rich tradition and culture or can just simply relax while rejuvenating your tired senses amidst a lush green surrounding. 20 male and 22 female tigers in the Pilibhit tiger reserve are also a major attraction.
Rohru
Famous for- Temples
Location- Himachal Pradesh
The serene hill station of Rohru is around 100 km from Shimla and has been blessed with beautiful scenery in plenty. If you love to indulge in adventure and other interesting activities then you have a lot to do. You can try your hand at trekking, para-gliding, Heli-skiing, river and canoeing in Pabbar River, camping and hand gliding. Angling is another activity in which you can partake. With weather that is pleasant all round the year, Rohru becomes a nice getaway during weekend. While summers here are perfect to relax, winters offer lots of adventure. Popular for its Apple cultivation, this place also has a number of tourist attractions including Pabbar Valley, Chanshal range, Shikhru Devta Temple and Shikhru Devta Temple.
Bhandarej (History)
Famous as- A historical village
Location- Dausa district
In case history seems to be an interesting topic to you, then the ancient village of Bhandarej, around 62 km from Jaipur should be your weekend destination. Finding its roots way back in the 11th century, this village is rich in its tribal heritage. You can visit the surrounding villages by hopping-on to a camel’s back or simply riding in a jeep. Moreover, popular wildlife reserves of Ranthambore, Sariska and Bharatpur are easily accessible from here. You can also get your hands on some interesting souvenirs like terracotta pottery, exotic lattice work items and sculptures. Bara Baoli, Bhandarej Baodi, Mehendipur Balaji Temple, Bhadrawati Palace and other excavation sites are some tourist attractions.
Palampur (Hill station)
Famous as- Hill Station
Location- Himachal Pradesh
Nestled within the mountains of Dhauladhar Ranges in Kangra Valley, the enchanting hill town of Palampur is perched at a height of 1219 meters, above the sea level. Neugal Khad, lush tea gardens, Shiva Temple and Tashi Jong Monastery should be visited during your weekend expedition to Palampur. Referred as the tea capital of North India, Palampur is perfect to enjoy a romantic vacation while admiring the nature’s beauty sprinkled all around. Get rejuvenated simply by taking a walk around the tea gardens while enjoying the cool breeze. In case adventure activities excite you, there are ample options here. Being a former part of the Sikh Kingdom of Jalandhar, it still houses a few splendid bungalows and mansions.
Also Read: Best Places to Visit in Himachal Pradesh
Lansdowne
Famous for- Natural beauty
Location- Pauri Garhwal District
Visiting Lansdowne is a must if you are craving for just the right summer as well as winter weekend getaway. Placed at a distance of around 249 km from the capital city of India, it has everything- pleasant weather, scenic locations, lush Oak and Pine forests, serene and secluded environment, comfortable accommodations, snow-covered peaks, unpolluted atmosphere and more. The unspoilt beauty of Lansdowne has attractions like a jungle safari and Tarkeshwar.
Must Read Related Post:
Best Winter Destinations in North India
Top 15 Places to Visit near Bangalore during the Monsoon Season
Geetika Handa
Geetika Handa is a travel writer who has an interest in sharing her experiences with all. She provides a detailed account of any travel topic she chooses to write on. You can get detailed information and tips about choosing the right kind of holiday packages in the country from her write-ups.
Alwar is a beautiful city/ town nearby which is engulfed between mountains and lake. It has some nice hotels to stay in( hill top type). Check my blog it might be helpful : https://fledglingtravelers.wordpress.com/ for more about Alwar and other places near Delhi.
A perfect collection of unexplored weekend getaways near Delhi. It is quiet necessary to plan a weekend vacation these days amid tough schedules. These places seem to be quiet promising ones!
Lansdowne – It was an unforgettable trip for me.. So quite and beautiful.. It’s just amazing when you see the clouds and are able to touch them.. “Chocolate” is a special kind of sweet which is counted as the specialty of the place.. The food was simple mouth-watering.. There also are small rivulet streams where you can halt and enjoy..
I was delighted to find it in your post.. 🙂
Nice post but I doubt that these are the unexplored weekend getaways near Delhi. Binsar, Lansdowne, Palampur and Munshiyari are now frequented by the new generation of young travelers.
I wonder how Kausani was included in this list as it is one of the popular honeymoon destinations in India and especially from Delhi. Even if we leave the honeymooners, Kausani is always crowded with tourist. I wonder what’s your idea of unexplored weekend getaways. And it’s impossible to do Kausani as a weekend getaway unless your idea is to arrive in the morning and catch the bus in the night.
Glad you liked it, though I am not sure we have the same definition of “Weekend”. I think the last three days of the week are reserved as weekends. And most have their days off on Saturday and Sunday.
Kausani is around 390 km from Delhi. That makes a drive-time of around 8 hours. Even if you leave Delhi sometime between evening and night, you can easily arrive at Kausani in the wee hours of the morning. That still leaves you with 1.5-2 days to explore Kausani.
Please notice the title of the post is “15 Lesser-known Weekend Getaways…”, and not “15 Unexplored Getaways”. Binsar, Lansdowne, Palampur and Munshiyari are still lesser-known compared to Shimla, Jaipur, Agra etc.
Mr Chandra !! I agree with Geetika , she always writes to the point . First of all I want to congratulate Geetika for her nice write up !!. and thanks for her all posts that inspire me to step out and plan a descent trip every once in a while. In the part of lesser known weekend destinations, she has already mentioned that these destination is lesser known compared to other popular weekend getaways like Agra , Jaipur and Rishikesh Etc …
I think that most of us have not explored these lesser known Weekend Getaways Arround Delhi ……
Thanks for all the appreciation.
It makes me feel happy that you like my write-ups so much and look forward to them to plan your trips.
I hope your weekend trip to any of these or all of these destinations will be a memorable one…All the best!
Hi..i a am new to this blog…could u please suggest me some place nearby delhi for the upcoming weekend from 15 aug 14 to 17 aug 14…..aound 300 km except jaipur and agra..wl be gng with my wife
Hi Nitin…if you are planning a weekend trip with your wife, there are surely some amazing options available for you excluding Agra and Jaipur (within 300 km from Delhi).
If you both like being close to nature, amidst lush mountains, you can visit places like Barog, Lansdowne, Chakrata, Dehradun, Kasauli, Mussorie and Kalsi. You both can also partake in adventure activities at these places.
On the other hand, if you have a keen interest in history and like exploring forts and palace that have several tales to tell, then you can visit destinations like Dausa, Mansa, Jhunjhunu,Samode, Churu and so on.
Nitin, if you and your wife wish to meet the big cats and other wildlife species of India, you can also plan a visit to the popular wildlife reserves of north India such as Sariska National Park, Van Vihar Widlife sanctuary, Rajaji National Park and Jim Corbett National Park.
Hope this information proves to be helpful and you plan a memorable trip with your wife..all the best!