Weekend Getaways from Delhi

A road trip is not essentially about the destination; it is about appreciating the essence of travel. The freedom to pull over and stop wherever you like, the fun of misreading navigation and taking a wrong turn, and clicking pictures at some unique junction is what leaves an indelible impression. Delhities love to travel and a weekend for them means escape from the traffic and pollution of the capital city. With the convenience to start as soon as the idea of trip germinates in their ever fertile mind, it is a road trip that they prefer and are extremely passionate about. So, hop onto your car, shout TGIF and breathe into the air of freedom.
Here’s a quick overview of top 10 destinations to inspire you for a weekend road trip from Delhi-NCR. The destinations in this list are placed in order of their distance from Delhi.

Neemrana | 144 Kilometres from Delhi

Closest to Delhi and lined with happening dhabas, Neemrana is a historic town in Alwar district of Rajasthan. The 16th century fort is converted into a heritage luxury resort managed by Neemrana group of hotels is the best place to stay and enjoy Neemrana in true royal style. Aesthetic interiors and warm hospitality makes for a comfortable stay. However, it is a tad expensive. You can stay at a reasonable hotel nearby and enjoy dinner in Neemrana resort to get the best of both the worlds – luxury in a budget. They usually organize cultural programs on weekends which are the highlight events. Sipping wine while you enjoy folk performances of Rajasthan is to say the least unwinding from the stress of the city life.

Chandigarh | 246 Kilometres from Delhi

If party in Punjabi style is what you want this weekend then head to Chandigarh and stomp your feet like a true Punjabi. Window shopping in Sector 17, pub hopping in Sector 26, evening walk at Sukhna Lake, biking on the tree laden roads of Sector 15 are some of the activities that you can enjoy in Chandigarh. This ‘City Beautiful’ is truly inspiring at every bend. Also, don’t miss to eat at the roadside dhabas on this route. Haveli is highly recommended. Though, most of them serve mouth watering food. I am a big fan of dhabha wala aloo ka parantha with white butter and sugary tea.

Rishikesh | 260 Kilometres from Delhi

Apart from the religious reverence for River Ganga, Rishikesh is also famous for river rafting and Yoga. There is something mystical about Rishikesh- the mighty flowing Ganges, the camphor incensed air, floating diyas, sounds of conch and bells from every corner and sadhu babas of every kind. Rishikesh definitely refreshes you and makes you feel alive again. Ram Jhula and Lakshman Jhula are two of the primary tourist spots here. You can also take a quick course on Yoga, meditation, Reiki, or Naturopathy when in Rishikesh.Experiencing the Ganga Aarti is highly recommended. Witness Rishikesh not from a religious perspective, but for photographic pleasure. However for me simply sitting at the banks of the Ganges works best.

Lansdowne | 267 Kilometres from Delhi

Lansdowne is a cantonment town in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. Blessed with an abundance of natural beauty, Lansdowne is an untouched and pristine destination where commercialization has yet not spread its fangs, all thanks to the Army regulations. The road to Lansdowne in the monsoon is beautiful, green, tree lined, and surprisingly devoid of pot holes and traffic. The drive is simply heavenly when it is through the clouds. There’s not a lot to see here except a deserted Tarkeshwar temple on a hilltop, museum of Garhwal Regiment, a few churches like Saint John’s Church, Saint Mary’s Church, and scenic points like Tiffin Point and Thandi Sadak. Lansdowne has to be enjoyed with your eyes closed and feet pulled up, snuggling on an arm chair.

Mussoorie | 276 Kilometres from Delhi

Mussoorie is like a dream. The moment you leave Dehradun and start driving up to Mussoorie you will be greeted by winding roads, floating clouds, pine trees and whispering meadows. This small town set in British ways is truly charming. Home to famous writer Ruskin Bond, Mussoorie exudes British charm and royalty. Even if you don’t do anything, even if you don’t tick off the tourist spots like Kempty falls, even if you simply laze around and see Mussoorie from the balcony of your resort; you will still enjoy Mussoorie. Just walk around and fall in love with this eternally romantic place.

Jaipur | 268 Kilometres from Delhi

An all time- favourite, Jaipur is apt for all types of travellers – history buffs, foodies, photographers or shopaholics. Spend the day admiring the magnificent forts and palaces, or bargain your way through the lanes of choti and badi chaupad markets. From trinkets, to clothes, to mojris you can never get bored of shopping in Jaipur. Enjoy mirchi pakodas and listen to folk music to spend a relaxed weekend in Jaipur.

Kasauli | 288 Kilometres from Delhi

A small town that is still reminiscent of the British era, Kasauli is a quiet escapade from Delhi. Scenic landscapes, verdant mountains and panoramic views never let you feel tired or bored. The fresh air of the mountains fills you with vigour and energy. Don’t forget to pick a few bottles of fruit wine on your way up. My favourite is the Rhododendron flavour. Mall road, Kasauli Church, Monkey Top and Sunset Point are some of the main tourist attraction. However, the town is best enjoyed in a laid-back state of mind.

Chail | 336 Kilometres from Delhi

If an offbeat destination is on your mind then Chail is the pristine and untouched landscape that you should head to. Don’t miss the open air restaurants where tables are placed amidst streams. Dip your feet into cold water while relishing hot pakodas and, feel like you are in heaven. Discovering the historic aspects of the beautiful Chail Palace and having lunch at famous Sharma Dhaba are my two most favourite activities when in Chail.

Shimla | 343 Kilometres from Delhi

Want to escape the heat and stress of Delhi? Shimla is your go to destination. Mountains have this innate capacity to calm down your sense and spread pure joy around. Shimla is a bit congested these days, but find a good resort to stay and you are sorted. Walk on the mall road, climb up to Jhakoo temple, enjoy the regalia of yesteryears at Gaity Theatre, marvel at the architectural magnificence of old buildings, and enjoy flora and fauna unique to Shimla.

Mcleodganj | 478 Kilometres from Delhi

Mcleodganj is a different world all together. This scenically located hill town sprinkled with Tibetan culture is enticing. If you love eating Momos then this is paradise for you. Slurping Thupka and relishing steaming hot Momos sitting in a quaint restaurant on the first floor and overlooking the street and the valley, I fell in love with Mcleodganj almost instantly.
Grab the car keys and your favourite book! That’s pretty much you need to travel to these weekend destinations. Hit the road and leave all your worries behind.

So, where are you off to next weekend?