Weekend Wonders: Top 20 Places to Visit Near New Delhi

When it comes to options for weekend getaways, Delhi is the best city to live in, given its proximity to the Himalayas. Some of the most beautiful hill stations in the country are located within driving distance of the capital city. However, Delhi not only offers easy access to weekend getaways for those obsessed with mountains but also for anyone who wants to explore different cultures. 

Larger-than-life forts of erstwhile kingdoms, culturally significant places of worship, and forests teeming with wildlife can all be found near Delhi. Here are some of the best places to visit over the weekend from Delhi.

20 Best Places to Visit Near Delhi

Here are the top 20 places to visit near Delhi:

1. Lansdowne

Lansdowne is an untouched but one of the most beautiful wonders of nature, nestled in the lap of Uttarakhand. It promises peace, calmness, and a picturesque landscape worth getting immersed in. Go on a nature trail surrounded by pine trees, British architecture, and serene lakes. You can also go hiking, rock climbing, bird watching, and touring museums and heritage buildings.

• Distance from Delhi: 258 km
• Time Taken to Reach from Delhi: 5–6 hours
• Best Time to Visit: April to June
• Suggested Duration of the Stay: 2–3 days
• Cost of the Trip: ₹10,000 – ₹25,000
• Places to Visit in Lansdowne: Tip N Top, Bhulla Lake, St. Mary’s Church, War Memorial, Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple, Darwan Singh Museum

2. Mussoorie

Mussoorie is the queen of the hills, famous for its green slopes, panoramic Himalayan views, and old-world charm. It has waterfalls, a colourful Mall Road, and colonial architecture. In short, it has everything to ensure that your trip to Mussoorie is both peaceful and memorable.

• Distance from Delhi: 268 km
• Time Taken to Reach from Delhi: 5-6 hours
• Best Time to Visit: March to June, and September to November
• Suggested Duration of the Stay: 3-4 days
• Cost of the Trip: ₹15,000 – ₹45,000
• Places to Visit in Mussoorie: Kempty Falls, Gun Hill, Mall Road, Lal Tibba, Landour, Company Garden

3. Chopta

Chopta is an offbeat destination near Delhi that offers amazing treks, snow-capped peaks, and pure mountain air. It's also the base for the Tungnath and Chandrashila treks. It is a trekking base camp surrounded by alpine meadows and rhododendron forests with mesmerising views of the Himalayas and peace of mind for trekkers and solitude seekers.

• Distance from Delhi: 410 km
• Time Taken to Reach from Delhi: 9–10 hours
• Best Time to Visit: March to May, September to November
• Suggested Duration of the Stay: 3–5 days
• Cost of the Trip: ₹20,000 – ₹50,000
• Places to Visit in Chopta: Tungnath Temple, Chandrashila Peak, Deoria Tal, Rohini Bugyal (Meadow), Madhyamaheshwar Mandir (nearby), Sari Village

4. Shimla

When planning for a getaway, Shimla can never be out of the list. Well-known for hill resorts, breathtaking Himalayan landscape, pleasant climate, and fascinating colonial past. Tourists adore the bustling Mall Road, historical landmarks like Christ Church, picturesque vistas, and convenient train or road access. All of this makes for a really remarkable mountain experience.

• Distance from Delhi: 343 km
• Time Taken to Reach from Delhi: 7-8 hours
• Best Time to Visit: March to June, November to February (for snow)
• Suggested Duration of the Stay: 2-4 days
• Cost of the Trip: ₹12,000 - ₹35,000
• Places to Visit in Shimla: The Mall Road, The Ridge, Jakhu Temple, Christ Church, Kufri

5. Kasauli

The serene ambience, pine-scented air, and colonial-era hill station charm of Kasauli are what captivate tourists. It's the perfect place for somebody looking for peace and natural beauty. You can take leisurely walks along meandering paths like the Gilbert Trail, discover handicrafts made locally, and take in expansive vistas from Manki Point.

• Distance from Delhi: 312 km
• Time Taken to Reach from Delhi: 6–7 hours
• Best Time to Visit: March to June, September to November
• Suggested Duration of the Stay: 2–3 days
• Cost of the Trip: ₹10,000 – ₹25,000
• Places to Visit in Kasauli: Monkey Point (Manki Point), Sunset Point, Gilbert Trail, Christ Church, Mall Road, Timber Trail, Kasauli Brewery

6. Nainital

Nainital offers the ideal fusion of colonial elegance and natural beauty, nestled among serene lakes and encircled by verdant hills. It is a popular hill retreat for all types of tourists because of its beautiful surroundings, agreeable climate, boating options, Mall Road shopping, and Snow Viewpoint’s expansive Himalayan views.

• Distance from Delhi: 292 km
• Time Taken to Reach from Delhi: 5–6 hours
• Best Time to Visit: March to June, September to November
• Suggested Duration of the Stay: 2–3 days
• Cost of the Trip: ₹10,000 – ₹28,000
• Places to Visit in Nainital: Naini Lake, Naina Devi Temple, Snow View Point, The Mall Road, Eco Cave Gardens, Tiffin Top (Dorothy’s Seat)

7. Kasol

This small Himachal town is a crowd favourite when it comes to relaxing weekend getaways. You can take a stroll along the Parvati River or unwind, staring into the stunning landscape. In either case, it is a paradise on earth worth visiting.

• Distance from Delhi: 481 km
• Time Taken to Reach from Delhi: 10–11 hours
• Best Time to Visit: March to June and October to November
• Suggested Duration of the Stay: 2–4 days
• Cost of the Trip: ₹10,000 – ₹30,000
• Places to Visit in Kasol: Parvati River, Kheerganga Trek, Chalal Village, Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara, Tosh Village, Malana Village

8. Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary

Also known as Keoladeo National Park, the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is a bird paradise. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a wintering area for aquatic birds from Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, China, and Siberia. Drive or walk over green patches of land with flamingos, cranes, pelicans, and many more, with a majestic view.

• Distance from Delhi: 230 km
• Time Taken to Reach from Delhi: 4–5 hours
• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Suggested Duration of the Stay: 1–2 days
• Cost of the Trip: ₹8,000 – ₹20,000
• Places to Visit in Bharatpur: Keoladeo Ghana National Park (Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary), Government Museum Bharatpur, Lohagarh Fort, Deeg Palace, Ganga Mandir

9. Jim Corbett National Park

Full of Bengal tigers and dense forests, Jim Corbett is perfect for a forest escape. You can live in a comfortable resort and take early morning jungle safaris to witness nature's raw beauty. It is the tourists' favourite destination for adventure and jungle safaris. Its hills are full of rare wildlife and more than 1000 species of birds.

• Distance from Delhi: 235 km
• Time Taken to Reach from Delhi: 4–5 hours
• Best Time to Visit: November to June
• Suggested Duration of the Stay: 2–3 days
• Cost of the Trip: ₹12,000 – ₹35,000
• Places to Visit in Jim Corbett: Jeep Safari in Corbett National Park, Corbett Waterfall, Garjia Devi Temple, Corbett Museum (Kaladhungi), Bijrani & Jhirna Zones

10. Dharamshala

Dharamshala is a beautiful city with Tibetan influences, monasteries, and a spiritual ambience against a backdrop of beautiful Himalayan scenery. Set among cedar forests and snow-covered mountains, Dharamshala has a peaceful spiritual climate, vibrant monasteries, and great local cafes.

• Distance from Delhi: 471 km
• Time Taken to Reach from Delhi: 9–10 hours
• Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to November
• Suggested Duration of the Stay: 2–3 days
• Cost of the Trip: ₹12,000 – ₹35,000
• Places to Visit in Dharmshala: Dalai Lama Temple Complex (Tsuglagkhang), HPCA Cricket Stadium, Bhagsu Falls, Triund Trek, St. John in the Wilderness Church, Namgyal Monastery, Dal Lake

11. Ranikhet

Ranikhet is a hill station located between pine forests and orchards. It is well known due to its tranquillity and magnificent views of the snow-capped Himalayas. The colonial background, old temples, and beautiful gardens provide a fresh breath of air to people looking for a peaceful vacation amidst nature and history.

• Distance from Delhi: 352 km
• Time Taken to Reach from Delhi: 7–8 hours
• Best Time to Visit: March to June, September to November
• Suggested Duration of the Stay: 2–3 days
• Cost of the Trip: ₹10,000 – ₹28,000
• Places to Visit in Ranikhet: Chaubatia Gardens, Haidakhan Babaji Temple, Jhula Devi Temple, Bhalu Dam, Kumaon Regimental Centre (KRC) Museum

12. McLeod Ganj

Welcome to India's mini-Tibet. Located in the Dhauladhar mountains, McLeod Ganj is serene, scenic, and spiritually alive. It is an entry point to spiritual journeys, beautiful hikes such as Triund, vibrant markets, and is famous as the seat of the Dalai Lama.

• Distance from Delhi: 500 km
• Time Taken to Reach from Delhi: 10–11 hours
• Best Time to Visit: March to June, and September to November
• Suggested Duration of the Stay: 2–3 days
• Cost of the Trip: ₹10,000 – ₹30,000
• Places to Visit in McLeod Ganj: Tsuglagkhang Complex (Dalai Lama Temple), Bhagsu Waterfall, Bhagsunath Temple, Triund Trek, St. John in the Wilderness Church, Dal Lake, Tibetan Museum, Namgyal Monastery

13. Auli

Auli is a paradise for snow lovers and skiing enthusiasts. It turns white with soft snow in winter and emerald green in summer, with the majestic Himalayas in the backdrop. Whatever you like, skiing, trekking, or simply lounging in a peaceful atmosphere, Auli is the ideal getaway.

• Distance from Delhi: 494 km
• Time Taken to Reach from Delhi: 11–12 hours (via Joshimath)
• Best Time to Visit: December to March (for snow), April to June (for greenery)
• Suggested Duration of the Stay: 2–3 days
• Cost of the Trip: ₹20,000 – ₹50,000
• Places to Visit in Auli: Auli Ropeway, Auli Artificial Lake, Gurso Bugyal, Chattrakund Lake, Joshimath, Trishul Peak

14. Neemrana

Located in Alwar, Neemrana is not just one of the closest tourist places that you can visit near Delhi, but also the one that promises a royal getaway. The streets of Neemrana still evoke the illustrious golden times of Indian royalty, complete with heritage structures all around. While you are here, you can also visit zip lining in Neemrana Fort, Village Safari, Bala Quila, Kesroli Fort, Sariska, Narnaul, Siliserh Lake, Baori, and Paradise Water Park.

• Distance from Delhi: 122 km
• Time Taken to Reach from Delhi: 2-3 hours
• Best Time to Visit: September and March
• Suggested Duration of the Stay: 2-3 days
• Cost of the Trip: ₹15,000 - ₹40,000
• Places to Visit in Neemrana: Neemrana Fort Palace
  • Neemrana Baori (Stepwell)
  • Zip-lining at Neemrana Fort
  • Bala Quila (Alwar Fort)
  • Kesroli Fort
  • Paradise Water Park

15. Ranthambore National Park

Ranthambore National Park is another wildlife treasure, but with an old and medieval flavour. It has more tiger spotting to offer, along with a rich history as well. The park also has a variety of landscapes and offers a chance to have a close view of tigers and other rare animals.

• Distance from Delhi: 381 km
• Time Taken to Reach from Delhi: 8–9 hours
• Best Time to Visit: October to April
• Suggested Duration of the Stay: 2–3 days
• Cost of the Trip: ₹15,000 – ₹40,000
• Places to Visit in Ranthambore: Ranthambore National Park (Wildlife Safari), Ranthambore Fort, Trinetra Ganesh Temple, Padam Talao, Raj Bagh Ruins, Jogi Mahal, Kachida Valley

16. Jodhpur

The Blue City, as it is known, Jodhpur is a stunning city with its historic Mehrangarh Fort, its colourful bazaars, and its colourful houses painted blue. Its rich culture, grand palaces, bustling markets, and scrumptious food will give you an experience of the royal grandeur of Rajasthan.

• Distance from Delhi: 650 km
• Time Taken to Reach from Delhi: 10–11 hours (by road), 1.5-hour flight
• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Suggested Duration of the Stay: 2–3 days
• Cost of the Trip: ₹18,000 – ₹45,000
• Places to Visit in Jodhpur: Mehrangarh Fort, Jaswant Thada, Umaid Bhawan Palace, Clock Tower & Sardar Market, Mandore Gardens, Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park

17. Agra

Agra is home to one of the seven wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal. Even if you have visited it before, it offers you the same allure and majestic experience. Agra is a convenient, simple, and easy weekend trip from Delhi. Apart from the Taj, the Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri have a lot of historical significance for those interested in Mughal history.

• Distance from Delhi: 233 km
• Time Taken to Reach from Delhi: 3–4 hours
• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Suggested Duration of the Stay: 1–2 days
• Cost of the Trip: ₹8,000 – ₹20,000
• Places to Visit in Agra: Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb (Baby Taj), Mehtab Bagh, Akbar’s Tomb (Sikandra)

18. Rishikesh

From yoga to river rafting, this town is the favourite travel destination for those looking for a blend of spirituality and a deep-rooted love for mountains. Rishikesh not only has a rich culture but a rich history as well. You can meditate on the banks of the river Ganga, hike to waterfalls, or sit and read a book in a cafe with a view of the holy river.

• Distance from Delhi: 242 km
• Time Taken to Reach from Delhi: 5–6 hours
• Best Time to Visit: September to November, March to May
• Suggested Duration of the Stay: 2–3 days
• Cost of the Trip: ₹10,000 – ₹25,000
• Places to Visit in Rishikesh: Laxman Jhula, Ram Jhula, Triveni Ghat, Parmarth Niketan Ashram, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Rajaji National Park

19. Mathura-Vrindavan

Vrindavan is unquestionably one of the holiest Hindu places in India, where locals' beliefs are still firmly held. According to Hindu tradition, Lord Krishna was born at the holy city of Mathura. At the exact location where Lord Krishna is believed to have been born is the well-known Hindu temple known as Sri Krishna Janma Bhoomi.

• Distance from Delhi: 183 km
• Time Taken to Reach from Delhi: 2–3 hours
• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Suggested Duration of the Stay: 1–2 days
• Cost of the Trip: ₹8,000 – ₹20,000
• Places to Visit in Mathura-Vrindavan: Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple, Barsana, Gokul, Govardhan, Dwarka, Banke Bihari Temple (Vrindavan), Prem Mandir (Vrindavan), Vishram Ghat, Puri, ISKCON Temple (Vrindavan), Dwarkadhish Temple, Kusum Sarovar

20. Haridwar

Haridwar is located at the foothills of the Himalayas. It is often known as the city of ashrams and temples. The Ganga aarti at Har Ki Pauri offers a spiritually enriching experience, whereas the cable rides to Mansa Devi are a thrilling adventure.

• Distance from Delhi: 222 km
• Time Taken to Reach from Delhi: 4–5 hours
• Best Time to Visit: October to April
• Suggested Duration of the Stay: 1–2 days
• Cost of the Trip: ₹7,000 – ₹18,000
• Places to Visit in Haridwar: Har Ki Pauri & Ganga Aarti, Mansa Devi Temple, Chandi Devi Temple, Maya Devi Temple, Bharat Mata Mandir

To Conclude

Whether you like a place with peace or adventure, these are the 20 best places to visit near Delhi that promise it all. They can give you a much-needed and peaceful break from your daily life. From beautiful hills to spiritual treks, there is something for every nature lover. So, next time you find yourself stuck in Delhi traffic or zoning out from another office Zoom conference, pull out this list, choose a destination, and hit the road. And if you're thinking about making your travel plans a reality, you can consider getting a travel loan from Poonawalla Fincorp to make your journey smooth and stress-free.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which place near Delhi is best for a peaceful hill station weekend without crowds?

Lansdowne is one of the most serene but less crowded places near Delhi. It is peaceful, scenic, and less touristy.

Can I visit Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary in summer?

Yes, you can visit Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary in Summer, but winter (Oct–Feb) is ideal for spotting migratory birds like the Siberian Crane.

Is Neemrana Fort open for day visits without staying overnight?

Yes, you can buy a day-entry ticket to explore the fort and dine at their restaurant with a majestic view.

Is river rafting in Rishikesh open year-round?

No, river rafting is closed during monsoons (typically July to mid-September) for safety reasons.

How early should I book a safari in Jim Corbett or Ranthambore?

At least 15–20 days in advance, especially during weekends and peak seasons.