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Destinations Around Delhi You Ought To Check Out!

Destinations, Domestic, Getaways, Leisure

A vacation requires you to start planning months in advance, book the tickets and the appropriate accommodation according to the place and your needs. might not be feasible for everyone. Sadly, due to our strenuous and tedious lives, this isn’t feasible for everyone. That is why the simplest way for you to take a holiday would be to elope over the weekend. Here is a list of Destination around Delhi places where you can easily travel to without planning too much.

Agra – ‘City of The Taj’

Agra is the perfect getaway for people who plan Delhi to Agra wishing to run back to the city in a day or people who would want to explore the city more. Tourists all over the world come to witness and be startled by the stunning beauty of Taj Mahal, built by Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved Mumtaz. The Taj Mahal is one of the seven wonders of the world and was acclaimed as a UNESCO world heritage site for being ‘the jewel of Muslim art in India’. Apart from the Taj Mahal, you can also visit the Agra fort that has been known to be the main residence of the emperors of the Mughal Dynasty. Just 38km away it is the Fatehpur Sikri that was known to be the capital of Mughal Empire but was abandoned by Akbar in 1610. Apart from Shah Jahan building a memorial, Nur Jahan, the mother of Shah Jahan built a tomb known as Itimadud Daulah. The tomb is also called  ‘Baby Taj’ known to be the inspiration behind the Taj Mahal. Agra is also world-famous for its mouth-watering petha. The Panchi Shop is one of the oldest and popular shops who serve petha. Make sure to grab some for yourself and your loved ones.

  • Distance from Delhi: 230Kms
  • Travelling Time: 3.5 hours – 4 hours
  • Best Time to Visit: October to July

Jaipur – The ‘Pink City’

Jaipur or the famously know pink city is the perfect destination for people looking to explore Rajasthan on a short period. If you have plan for Destination around Delhi for weekend gateway Jaipur is the best option. The city showcases a splendour presence of the royalties that resided in the city centuries ago and continue to do so even today. The Amer fort, located just 11 km from the city is one of the most popular tourist spots. Apart from the admirable Mughal and Rajput architecture embossed, the fort speaks on the era’s where once Rajput rulers such as  Maharaja Man Singh I, who led the Mughal Emperor Akbar’s army, resided. Successive rulers inhabited the fort. Another famous Mahal present in the city is the Hawa Mahal. The Mahal or palace is known to be built by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh in 1799. He was the grandson of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh, the founder of Jaipur. The palace exhibits stunning architecture that resembles a honeycomb. Other popular spots for travellers would include the Jantar Mantar, Nahargarh Fort, Jal Mahal and the oldest museum of the Rajasthan known as the Albert Hall Museum. 

Apart from their history, Jaipur is also known for its mouth-watering food such as dal-baati-churma, laal maas, keema Bhati and ghewar. Also, the city gives shoppers a variety of stunning Lehariya sarees, Bandhani dupatta, items with intricate meenakari art done on them and much more.

  • Distance: 280 Kms
  • Travelling Time:  5:30 hours – 6 hours
  • Best Time to Visit: Early November to February

    ALSO READ – HERITAGE WALK AROUND DELHI

Shimla – ‘The Queen of Hill Stations’

A short trip for Destination arourd Delhi people seeking to experience the beauty of the northern hills should opt for the ‘Queen of Hill Stations’ also known as Shimla. It was once known to be the summer capital of British India. Shimla, the capital of the “Land of the Gods” (known as Himachal Pradesh) is one of the most popular tourist destinations of the northern part of India. The Jakhoo temple that worships Lord Hanuman, hosts itself at the highest peak of Shimla. Lord Hanuman stopped at this point to take rest while searching for Sanjeevani Booti for Lord Laxman. While visiting Shimla, you can also pay a visit to the second oldest church in the northern region of India.  The Christ Church was built by the Britishers, epitomizes the neo-gothic style architecture. The church is situated on the Ridge Road in Shimla is a sight to behold. Nature lovers can also drop by the Chadwick Falls in the forests of Glen. One can also enjoy the serene beauty if the hills of Shimla through the Kalka Shimla toy train ride that takes you through to almost a hundred tunnels. Tourists eager to grab a souvenir with them should surely visit the Lakkar Bazar and shop for famous handicrafts, jewellery and shawls. If visiting in winters don’t forget to ice skate at the Shimla ice-skating Rink.

  • Distance: 350 Kms
  • Travelling Time:  8 hours – 8:30 hours
  • Best Time to Visit: Early November to February

Nainital – ‘The Kidney Shaped Lake’

Named after the popular Naini Lake, that is a popular brunching spot for people who like sharing anecdotes over a picturesque and stunning view. Near the Naini lake, one can also seek the blessings of Goddess Nainadevi at the Naina Devi temple. People wishing to go on a short trek can travel to the Naina Peak, or the China Peak is known as the highest peak of Nainital, the view on top of the peak will surely leave you in awe. Another great hiking and sightseeing spot is the Tiffin top, built-in memory of an English painter Dorothy Kellet by her husband. Ergo, it is also called Dorothy’s Seat. The deodar forests of the hill station also offer their condolences to the victims that lost their lives in the landslide of 1880. Wildlife lovers can visit the Kilbury Bird Sanctuary and the Pt. G.B. Pant High Altitude Zoo to see various exotic and endangered animals and birds like the Royal Bengal Tiger, Leopard Cat, Tibetan Wolves, Barking Deer, Japanese Macaque and Sambar. To put a sweet end to your trip don’t forget to devour pastries at the town’s favourite café Sakley’s. Another towns favourite is the Honey Hut café. The café is based entirely on the concept of honey, as all beverages and dishes offered here contain a hint of honey.

  • Distance: 300 Kms
  • Travelling Time:  7 hours – 7:30 hours
  • Best Time to Visit: Throughout the Year

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Kasauli – ‘A Colonial Hill Station’

Just 58 km away from Chandigarh is another stunning example of the exquisite and astonishing piece of nature, Kasauli. Kasauli was established by the Britishers in 1842 as a colonial hill station. Another popular tourist favourite, Kasauli is a quaint little town for people searching or looking to enjoy a walk in the wilderness of nature or experience the calmness and tranquillity of the sun setting at the end of the day at the known Sunset point. Kasauli is famously visited by ardent followers all over India to experience the holy sacredness of Gurudwara Shri Nanak Ji in Gharkhal bazaar. Nature lovers can enjoy their weekend by strolling down the Gilbert trail to experience and be a part of the magical and mystical 1.5 km trail of green and lustful pastures present. While walking down the trail don’t forget to keep an eye out for migratory birds that have been known to increase the serenity of this beautiful place. The Brewery for a freshly brewed malt whiskey or shopping famous handicrafts, antiques and woollens or enjoying Tibetan delicacies at the well- known Kasauli Tibetan Market are just a few of the other things one visiting here can enjoy.

  • Distance: 280 Kms
  • Travelling Time:  6 hours – 6:30 hours
  • Best Time to Visit: Throughout the Year

Jim Corbett- ‘Attraction of Tourists and Wildlife Enthusiasts’

Part of the Project Tiger Reserve, the Jim Corbett National Park is situated in the Pauri and Nainital district of Uttarakhand. Named after the famous tiger hunter Jim Corbett, the national park was established in 1936 as Hailey National Park and is one of the oldest national parks of India.  The Jim Corbett National Park is well known for launching the first ‘Save the tigers’ project in 1973. The National Park is a great vacation spot for wildlife enthusiasts. People visiting here will be able to experience the magnanimous list of animals that make Jim Corbett one of the best-preserved Parks of the country. Recognized as a Paradise of Tigers, the park flourishes in flora and fauna. The Flora region contains more than 500 kinds of plants like climbers, herbs, trees and shrubs. The main highlight of the park, for which people travel long distances to catch a glimpse of the amazing array of animals that seek shelter here. The most popular being the Royal Bengal Tiger, the Asiatic Elephant, Sloth Bear and various kinds of Deers. The park offers visitors various kinds of Safari to enjoy the place to the fullest. Some of them being the elephant safari, jeep safari and canter safari.

  • Distance: 240 Kms
  • Travelling Time: 5:30 hours – 6 hours
  • Best Time to Visit: November to Mid- June

Lansdowne – ‘A Picturesque Hill Town’

A small little peaceful town is situated in the Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand. Lansdowne comes under the quiet and not so crowded northern hill stations of India. Lansdowne was founded by Lord Lansdowne, the Viceroy of India in 1887.  Lansdowne was once the summer hill resort of the British, today is known for hosting the command office of the Garhwal Rifles of the Indian Army. The Garhwal Rifles Regiment War memorial to mark the importance of the sacrifices made by the Garwahal regiment.  The war memorial and Garwhali mess, the oldest building of the town are one of the top attractions of the place. However, prior permission is required to visit the place. The town reverberates of the British Colonial period through its architecture and history through its temples and churches like Mary’s church, John’s church and the Tarkeshwara Mahadev Temple. The St Mary’s Church is currently handled by the Garhwal Rifles Regimental Centre, that has now been converted into a museum that takes you through the pre-independence period.  A quiet little evening at the snow viewpoint with a warm cup of coffee while gazing at the clear blue sky will add a perfect end to your day.

  • Distance: 250 Kms
  • Travelling Time:  7 hours – 7:30 hours
  • Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year except for monsoon

McLeod Ganj – ‘Little Dhasa’

Mc Leod Ganj has been named after the Lieutenant Governor of Punjab, Sir Donald Friell McLeod. ‘Ganj’ is derived from the Punjabi language that means neighbourhood. Popularly called as the ‘Little Lhasa or Dhasa, by the Tibetian community that have a large presence in this lush and vivid valley. It is also the home of the spiritual leader Dalai Lama. Tourists all over the world travel here to especially to experience the tranquillity of the Tibetan culture that can be endeavoured through the Tibetan Museum. The official museum of the Central Tibetan Department, it showcases stunning visuals like photographs, videos and texts that depict the struggles the Tibetan community has undergone over the years. The museum is found next to the TsuglangKhang monastery that is known to be the residing place for the holiness Dalai Lama. The Bhagsu falls, and the Dal lake is other stunning nature spots experience huge tourist footfall the entire year.  Mcleodgang is also the starting point of the Triund trek. The trek is one of the easiest treks and is ideal for beginner trekkers. For a scrumptious meal with a sinful dessert don’t forget to hop at the Woeser Bakery, Jimmy’s Italian Kitchen and Seed Café.

  • Distance: 480 Kms
  • Travelling Time:  10 hours – 11 hours
  • Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year

Chail – ‘Summer Retreat of Maharaja of Patiala’

Next to the bustling hill station Shimla is the queer little town called Chail. Chail comes under one of the most peaceful and serene places for people looking to spend the weekend away from the hustle-bustle of city life. Chail came into discovery by the Maharaja of Patiala, Bhupinder Singh who was banned away from the then summer capital of India, Shimla. He then later choose to make Chail the second Shimla. The magnanimous and astounding Chail palace was also built under the reign of Bhupinder Singh. Earlier a summer resort, today stands as a heritage hotel. The hotel gives you a first-hand experience of how the maharajas of the previous decades used to live and spend their day. The thick covered forests of Oak and Deodar trees and the Orchadsthat surround the palace make for a picturesque view. Chail is also known for the world’s highest cricket ground and polo ground that were both owned by the royal family of Patiala. Chail is also a paradise for trekkers, campers and adventure seekers around the country. The Sadhupul Lake, Maa Kali Temple and the Chail Wildlife Sanctuary are other famous spots to visit in Chail for a wonderful experience.

  • Distance: 335 Kms
  • Travelling Time:  7 hours – 7:30 hours
  • Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year

Rishikesh – ‘World’s Yoga Capital

A weekend getaway for adventure enthusiasts looking for some heart racing, blood pumping and thrilling experience is what a trip to Rishikesh is all about. The place is frequently visited by college-goers to experience the various adventure activities such as river rafting in the Ganges, rock climbing at the Shivalik Hills, camping under the stars and bungee jumping at Mohan Chatti, Zorbing at the Garhwal hills and many more such are offered by this place. Apart from the adrenaline pumping activity, one can surely find some solace here as well. Rishikesh is the yoga capital of the world and is flooded with many ashrams. 

The Swarg Ashram built in the memory of Swami Vishudhanand is a hotspot for meditating and practising the art of yoga. The ashram is flocked by foreign visitors as well as locals throughout the year. Other popular ashrams include the Parmarth Niketan that also offers educational courses on Ayurveda, Yoga and meditation. Lastly, the ChaurasiKutia or the Beatles Ashram was the International Academy of Meditation. It came under the spotlight when in 1968 the popular English band Beatles studied meditation. The Ram Jhula, Lakshman Jhula, Triveni Ghat are other such popular spots of Rishikesh.

  • Distance: 340 Kms
  • Travelling Time:  5:30 hours – 6 hours
  • Best Time to Visit: Late September to Mid May

Mukteshwar – ‘A Retreat of Adventure and Salvation’

Located 50 km away from Nainital, Mukteshwar is a little town sits pretty on top of the Kumaon hills with an average height of 2,285 meters. Famously named after the Mukteshwar temple, the temple that has been worshipping Lord Shiva for 350 years and continues to do so. Just close to the Mukteshwar Dham are huge rocky cliff known as the ChaulikiJali, a perfect spot for people eager to explore and experience the beauty of the magnificent Himalayan mountains and the Kaumaun valley range more closely. Apart from a great view, activities like rock climbing, abseiling and zip-lining. The ChaulikiJali has something in for wildlife admirers too. ChaulikiJali is not the only spot where you can witness the Himalaya. Sheetla, a hill station also offers a scenic view of the Himalayan its peaks within the bountiful and profuse forests. It is also known for its antique buildings and bungalows that were made during the colonial period. People seeking a small hike through the dense forests the leading to the BhaluGaad waterfalls is the ideal spot. Roughly taking the shape of a horseshoe, the waterfalls come under the lesser crowded and cleaner waterfalls. To put a sweet chocolatey end to your trip the Choco-House-Chocolatiers the only shop that offers handmade European Chocolates.

Ranikhet – The ‘Meadow’s Queen’

The queen’s meadow or Ranikhet was named after the incidence was King Sudhardev, who wanted to win the love and affection of Queen Padmini had to build a palace at this stunning work of nature and name it after her.  It was earlier a hub for the Britishers to enjoy and relax during the scorching heat of the Indian summer. It was established as the Kumaon Regiment. The Kumaon Regiment Centre Museum, maintained by the army showcases a wide array of memoirs the battles that occurred in the past. Worshippers travelling to get to experience the spirituality of the town through its many temples like the  UpatKalika temple, Ram Mandir, Jhula Devi Temple, Haidakhan temple and Dunagiri temple. If willing to witness a huge variety of flora and fruits, the Chaubatia gardens have over 200 varieties of it. That one won’t be able to suffice in a day.

  • Distance: 360 Kms
  • Travelling Time:  8:30 hours – 9 hours
  • Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year

Also Read :- Heritage walk around Delhi

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