10 Weekend Getaways From Delhi, India - Updated 2024

Poonam
Poonam 
Updated
| 9 min read
Anupama Passary
Endorsed by a New Delhi Local Expert
|
Anupama Passary
Chirag Gaur
Endorsed by a New Delhi Local Expert
|
Chirag Gaur

Delhi’s rich history, incredible diversity and dynamic nature are not confined to the city itself. At just four to six hours away from India’s capital city (or even less), there are a wealth of weekend getaways, each with their own defining features and unique experiences. From exploring Agra’s architectural and historical treasures, and experiencing the ancient spiritual culture of Varanasi, to revelling in the laid-back charm of Kasol, and getting up-close and personal with the endangered Royal Bengal Tiger at Jim Corbett National Park, here are some awesome ideas for the perfect weekend getaways from Delhi, India. Keep reading to learn more.

1. Agra (from USD 174.0)

Taj-Mahal
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Joel Godwin used under CC BY-SA 4.0

For a rich dose of history and architecture, there is no better place to visit near Delhi than the historic city of Agra. Once the capital of India under the rule of the Mughals, the city is home to forts, monuments and other structures of the time. The Taj Mahal — dating to the 17th century and built entirely of white marble complete with semi-precious stones — is the emblematic attraction of the city. It was created by Emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, and is universally admired as the symbol of love. The sunrise, as well as, the sunset view of the monument, should not be missed. Besides this ivory-white mausoleum, Agra Fort and Tomb of I’timad-ud-Daulah, are worth a visit too. The city is also known for its marble items inlaid with semi-precious stones. Sadar Bazaar is the perfect place for buying these items. While you’re in the Agra district, make sure to visit the abandoned town of Fatehpur Sikri, and it will certainly be a weekend worth remembering. The city was founded by Shah Jahan’s grandfather, Akbar, and is full of Indo-Islamic architectural wonders that will leave you awestruck.

You can catch an early morning train from Delhi - preferably Habibganj Shatabdi Express (one-stop train) or the semi-high speed Gatimaan Express - which takes less than two hours to reach Agra. Alternatively, you can book a taxi for the weekend. Private car tours from Delhi are readily available.

Where to stay: Located just 0.6 kilometres (0.4 miles) from the UNESCO World Heritage Site Taj Mahal, The Oberoi Amarvilas Agra is the best option.

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From Delhi: Overnight Taj Mahal & Agra City Tour by Car

Duration: 2.0 day

69 reviews

2. Kasol (from USD 26.55)

Parvati Valley river kasol
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Alok Kumar used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Located on the banks of Parvati River in the Kullu district, Kasol has long been considered the backpackers’ haven of North India. A weekend spent here should involve some outdoor adventure and a healthy dose of nature therapy. This could take the form of camping and rafting along the Parvati River or trekking through the Himalayan valleys. Alternatively, you can visit one too many villages near Kasol. If you’re into psychedelic and trance parties, Chalal village is the place to be, while if you just want to immerse in nature, head to Tosh village, nestled atop a hill surrounded by mountains. If time permits, do visit Manikaran, a sacred place for both Hindus and Sikhs. It is known for its natural hot springs that are said to have therapeutic properties.

The hamlet is home to a great number of Israelis, who have made a significant impact on the local culture and cuisine. You’ll find Israeli food in abundance, in addition to Indian, Italian and Chinese cuisine. Bhoj Cafe and Jim Morrison Cafe are local favourites for Israeli and Indian food.

Where to stay: There are several hotels, guesthouses and Homestays where you can experience the warm hospitality of the locals. The Flipsyde Cafe is one of the top choices for a budget and location-friendly stay.

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2D1N Kheerganga Trek & Camping from Kasol - Klook India

Duration: 2day(s)Duration

3. McLeod Ganj (from USD 179.0)

McLeod Ganj, nestled in the mighty Dhauladhar Range, is home to His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama and has a large Tibetan population, hence also goes by the epithets ‘Little Lhasa’ or 'Mini Tibet of India’. A visit here will teach visitors everything they need to know about Buddhism. There are several monasteries where you take a course in Buddhism. The Tsuglagkhang Complex is a must-visit site. It is a holy place for the Buddhist pilgrims and encompasses the 16th-century Namgyal Monastery, the Tsughlakhang Temple, the Tibetan Museum that highlights Tibetan history, culture and art; a bookstore, a cafe and a library, along with several shrine rooms having Lord Gautam Buddha statues.

Pro-tip: Visit the complex in the morning so that you can partake in meditation and chanting along with the monks. Also, make sure to spin the Buddhist prayer wheels in Tsughlakhang temple, as it is believed to bring good karma and remove negative energy.

When all of that learning makes you hungry, enjoy the town’s mix of Indian and Tibetan dishes at one of the many cafes and restaurants. Adventure lovers can go trekking in the Dhauladhar mountains or hike the 20-meter tall Bhagsu Falls. While those looking for a relaxing therapy can slip into one of the many yoga and meditation centres.

Where to stay: Hotel Norbu House offers all the mod cons along with fantastic views of the Dalai Lama temple

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Dharamshala Macleodganj tour from Delhi

Duration: 3 days

2 reviews

4. Alwar (from USD 234.0)

Alwar city palace
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Bornav27may used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Alwar is a compact town that can be easily explored in a weekend. A perfect weekend in Alwar should include a tour of its spectacular series of architecture, especially Alwar Fort, one of the largest forts in Rajasthan and the icon of Alwar. Nestled 340 meters (1115 feet) above the city, the fort dates back to the 15th century and comprised of temples, palaces, old cannons, and six beautifully carved gates each named after a ruler who reigned over the fort. Also, don’t miss the 18th-century Vijay Mandir Palace, the City Palace filled with ancient artefacts owned by the royals, the Moosi Maharani Ki Chattri (cenotaphs of Queen Moosi) adorned with frescoes on the ceilings and mythological carvings on the walls, and the ruins of the 17th-century Bhangarh Fort rumoured to be haunted.

The rest of your holiday can be spent very pleasantly boating in the picturesque Siliserh Lake and soaking in the vistas of the Aravalli Range in the backdrop. If you desire more activities, you can go on a jeep safari in Sariska National Park and catch a glimpse of the incredible wildlife including Royal Bengal tiger, rare Indian Eagle Owl and Indian leopard.

Where to stay: We recommend staying overnight at the Astroport Sariska, situated about 1.6 kilometers (2.8 miles) from the tiger reserve. It is the first and only Astro resort in India, where you can see the stars and galaxies adorning the night sky without any air pollution.

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Sariska Tiger Reserve From Delhi

Duration: 2 days

New Delhi Tour Guide

Rajeev

Rajeev

I am a full-time licensed tour guide living in Agra, India. I received my Regiinal Level Guide certificate in 2007 from the Ministry of Tourism now I have a Pan India license. Before I discovered the tourism industry, I worked in the law, medical and insurance fields. I have a Bachelor of Science degree, majoring in Biology and Organic Chemistry. After achieving my Masters of Science in Organic Chemistry, I went to law school. My passion for history and culture led me to my profession today. I still enjoy learning science. I use it to understand the healing power of plants: mainly herbs, fruits and vegetables. My hobbies include collecting postage stamps, coins, paper money, reading, music, and of course, gardening. I also love photography, which I have become very good at. Many tourists have enjoyed my personal sightseeing tours. I enjoy meeting people and showing them my world. My lifelong experiences here, combined with my studies, allow me to help people get to know the real India. If you enjoy learning about this way of life, I am the one to come to! I work mainly in Agra, but will create tours to places outside of the city. While my tours are mostly walking tours around the city, I can arrange for transportation as well. If you need accommodation services, I can provide that too. Traveling to India is not just a journey, but an experience!

Tours by Rajeev

New Delhi Tour Guide

farman guia turstico

Farman Guia Turstico

Hello Travellers people calle me Farman a experienced freelance tour guide. I work with several Free Tours company and we would love to show you around and give you the best tips and recomendations. If you travel in India you will discover a new aspect of this wonderful city. If it is your first visit i warn you one thing: you will fall in love in love with India and you will end up coming back.

Tours by Farman guia turstico

New Delhi Tour Guide

Zeeshan Ali

Zeeshan Ali

Namaste!! I Take privilege to share about myself. My name is Zeeshan. I was born and raised in the rich history of India, in the Beautiful City of Agra, I had no Doubts to become a Tour Guide because I couldn't stop myself been attracted towards the charm for History & Architecture of monuments located at Agra from my childhood. I Chose to become a Tour Guide to fulfill my Passion & to learn, share about the Customs, Tradition, Culture, History & Architecture of my Incredible Country which has a Unity in Diversity. I am 34 years old and 14 of them I Dedicated as a Tour Guide. I am Educated, Professional, Sociable, Punctual & friendly. I can interest you by presenting interesting facts about India. I always take into account the wishes of my Clients and create individual plans of Excursion. I help my Clients in choosing the Best Stops, Stores, Cafes & transfers. I did my Masters in Indian History (Medieval Period). I believe my Journey has just begun as I discovered an enormous amount of knowledge of History, Architecture & Culture of North India by reading & Travelling So I am very Well Versed to Deliver the Tour just like a local. I consider myself a Professional in this field, I am happy that my clients take their India Tour Memories as an Experience to Cherish it throughout their lives. In easy words, you can travel with me like an old family friend from India.

5. Varanasi (from USD 150.0)

Diwali festival of lights in Varanasi, India
Source: Photo by user Matt Zimmerman used under CC BY 2.0

A quick weekend of spirituality in Varanasi is more than achievable, with regular flights of only an hour and a half departing to and from Delhi. Dating back to the 11th century BC, it is one of the world’s oldest living cities, and also one of the most sacred places for Hindus in India. The place is associated with the Hindu god Shiva and people from across the world come here to seek blessings of the Lord and attain nirvana. While you’re here, make sure you do the quintessential Varanasi activity of taking a dip in the holy water of the Ganges river (it is believed to cleanse away all your sins), along with attending a Ganga aarti (Hindu ritual of worship), which is held at one of the many ghats. We do recommend taking a boat ride along the holy Ganges river and soak in the view and vibe of the city.

Where to stay: Perched on the Darbhanga Ghat, the BrijRama Palace provides comfort and luxury, with views of the sacred Ganges River to boot.

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2 Days Varanasi tour package for first timers

Duration: 2 days

32 reviews

6. Jaipur (from USD 48.0)

HawaMahal-Jaipur
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Firoze Edassery used under CC BY-SA 3.0

For a super-easy weekend trip, Jaipur is a mere 55-minute flight away, or alternatively, you can drive straight onto the train or bus and get there in under six hours. The capital of the royal Indian state of Rajasthan, Jaipur has everything from historic palaces and incredible architecture to lively bazaars, great restaurants and much more, you may find that a quick weekend just isn’t enough. The most famous attractions in Jaipur are undoubtedly the magnificent City Palace and the Hawa Mahal located in the old walled quarter of Jaipur, while the Ram Niwas Gardens and Jantar Mantar to the south of old walled quarter, and the Nahargarh Fort, the Amber Palace and the Royal Gaitor cenotaphs on the city’s outskirts invariably earn accolades from travelers.

To prevent a history overload, you have two options: first, there are vibrant bazaars where you can go shopping for traditional Rajasthani items, such as handicrafts, jewelry, ethnic clothes and more. The Tripoli bazaar and Bapu bazaar are the best ones. Second, you can visit Elefantastic that offers ethical opportunity to get up-close with Asian elephants. You feed, water and wash the elephants, as well as bareback rides, are available.

Where to stay: For a complete royal experience, book a room at Shahpur House.

Tip from Trip101 local expert

Anupama

Anupama
New Delhi

Loved shopping at Bapu Bazaar in Jaipur, which is replete with stores selling ethnic clothes, home décor, jewelry, local handicrafts, and more.

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Private Full Day Tour of Jaipur with Guide

Duration: 8 hours

239 reviews

7. Kasauli (from USD 143)

kasauli
Source: Photo by user Ankit Jain used under CC BY 2.0

A weekend in the Kasauli means rich history, a tryst with nature, trekking in the forests with spectacular views of Himalayan mountains, and a distillery dating back to the 19th century. You can start day one at the Gilbert Trail, which is a 1.5-kilometre (0.6 mile) long nature trail replete with colourful birds. The highlight of the trail, however, is the endpoint that offers a spectacular view of the surrounding verdant landscape. After the nature walk, you can explore one of the many temples and churches in the town. The 150-year-old Nahri temple dedicated to Hindu God Shiva and Goddess Durga, and the 19th-century Christ Church that stands out with its Gothic-style of architecture complete with Spanish and Italian touches are particularly noteworthy. At dusk, we recommend visiting the Sunset Point in the Upper Mall Road, or the Monkey Point - both the vantage points offer a beautiful view of the town with the sun sinking in the horizon that is unparalleled.

The next day you can go on a trekking adventure. There are easily accessible treks in and around the town, such as Jabli, Kalka and Garkhal. End your weekend by taking a tour of Kasauli Brewery. Launched in the 19th century, it is one of the oldest functioning distilleries in Asia for malt whisky.

Where to stay: If you want to be in the heart of all the action, stay right at Treebo Royal Suites.

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Royal Suites by Park Tree, Kasauli

Wifi Available

Address: Old Kasauli Road
160.5 km (99.8 mi) from Shree Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

Parking Restaurant Room service 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Non-smoking rooms Laundry Dry cleaning Ironing service

8. Rishikesh (from USD 361)

Rishikesh temple side view of canal
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Vishal chand rajwar used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Nestled at the foothills of the Himalayas along the banks of River Ganges, Rishikesh is a place of spirituality and yoga. In the late 20th century, the Beatles visited Haridwar to meet their guru Maharishi Mahesh Yogi and since then it has become a hot spot for peace seekers. Its spectacular natural beauty, relaxed atmosphere and bounty of yoga centres and ashrams will likely keep it a soul searchers haven for years to come. You can spend your weekend here practising different asanas and learning about the yogic way of life. Some of the top ashrams in Rishikesh are Parmarth Niketan, Sivananda Ashram and Yoga Niketan (to name but a few). While you’re here, make sure to attend Ganga aarti (river worship ceremony) held every evening along the banks of Ganges. Adventure enthusiasts aren’t left out in this city, as outdoor activities abound, from trekking in the Himalayas to rafting in the Ganges River, bungee-jumping, mountaineering, rappelling and zip-lining.

Where to stay: For a truly magical experience, book a stay at Hotel Ishan, which boasts of riverside view rooms.

Tip from Trip101 local expert

Chirag

Chirag
New Delhi

Beatles Ashram, Rishikesh Beatles Ashram, Rishikesh

If you're plotting a weekend escape to Rishikesh, carve out time for the Beatles Ashram, known to locals as Chaurasi Kutiya. Trust me, it's a gem tucked away in the city's spiritual tapestry. Walking through those 84 meditation huts, I was hit by the sheer history—this is where the Beatles' creativity flourished, and you can almost hear the echoes of their iconic songs. The walls are canvases of vibrant graffiti; it's an art lover's and a music buff's paradise rolled into one. And don't sweat the expense; the entry fee is surprisingly budget-friendly. Aim to get there by 10am to soak in the vibe before it closes around 4 to 5pm.

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Hotel Ishan - A Riverside Retreat by Salvus

Address: P.O.Shivananda Nagar, Tapovan, Rishikesh Uttarakhand
5.19 km (3.3 mi) from Shree Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

Lockers Air conditioning First aid kit available Tour or class about local culture Ticket service Gift shop Bridal suite Daily housekeeping

9. Lansdowne (from USD 42)

Lansdowne 20140731 101026 (20127841351)
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Ashish Gupta used under CC BY 2.0

An erstwhile summer retreat of the British, Lansdowne is a small hill station in Uttarakhand. It is just six hours away from Delhi by road, and is well worth a visit for its utmost serenity and immense natural beauty. Tourists can indulge in fun activities like camping, hiking, boating, nature walks or a wildlife safari tour in Kalagarh Tiger Reserve. The hill station is also home to several historic religious places such as Kaleshwar temple dedicated to Hindu God Shiva and St. Mary’s Church belonging to the colonial era. Don’t forget to visit the Garhwali Museum that features the centuries-old heritage of Indian Army and Garhwal Rifles Regiment. The museum building itself is an attraction, with British-era architecture.

Where to stay: The Valley View by BOHO is a great option in the region that comes with all the modern facilities.

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The Valley View by BOHO

Address: National Highway Jaiharikhal, Landsdowne
41.01 km (25.5 mi) from Shree Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

10. Jim Corbett National Park (from USD 186.0)

Jim Corbett National Park Fauna
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user ShashwatJha1300 used under CC BY-SA 4.0

If you’re a wildlife lover, you will love your weekend in Jim Corbett National Park. Located just about six hours away from Delhi via car or bus, it is India’s oldest national park, founded in 1936. Time will fly here as you watch the diverse wildlife that call this park home. It is home to more than 650 species of birds, over 488 species of plants and several animals, including the endangered Royal Bengal Tiger, Indian elephant, Himalayan black beer, sambar, leopard, barking deer and Indian python.

Covering 201.1 square miles (520.8 square kilometres), the park is packed with hills, grasslands, riverine belts, a lake and marshy depressions. The diverse landscape makes it a great spot for indulging in adventure activities like trekking, rappelling, camping, rock climbing and angling. The park is divided into six zones - out of which the Jhirna Safari zone is open throughout the year, while the rest remain closed during monsoon season, i.e. from July to October. You can explore the park on a jeep safari which can be booked online. For stay, there are rest houses and quarters in the Dhikala zone.

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Jim Corbett Tour Package

Duration: 1 to 4 days

Enjoy a relaxing weekend

There’s so much to do and see in Delhi itself. But, if you’re looking to get away from India’s capital city for a couple of nights, there are lots of interesting places within easy reach. Read our above guide to know the best weekend getaways from Delhi, India.

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Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
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This article has been endorsed by New Delhi local expert Anupama Passary and 1 other(s)

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Poonam is a freelance travel writer currently based in the Silicon Valley of India (Bengaluru). She has resided in about 5 Indian cities. So while there was never a permanent address, she had lots...Read more

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