If you find yourself eagerly awaiting the weekends, it’s time to make a change. Life in a bustling city like Delhi can be overwhelming, with the constant hustle and the lack of fresh air often leaving you feeling drained. However, the beauty of Delhi lies in its proximity to serene mountain getaways, all within a 100 to 500 km radius. We all need a refreshing escape from the daily grind now and then.
What better way to rejuvenate than with a quick trip to the mountains? The post-weekend blues can hit even harder after a day spent indoors, and while not everyone has the luxury of a spontaneous weekend retreat, it’s clear that for city dwellers, such getaways have become essential. Whether you live in Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurugram, or Faridabad, these beautiful destinations are just a short drive away. A weekend escape is like hitting the refresh button on life, offering the perfect antidote to monotony and helping you recharge for the week ahead.
Here, we present the top 15 weekend trips from Delhi, designed to invigorate your weekends and leave you feeling renewed.
Table of Contents
Jibhi, Tirthan Valley
Jibhi is an enchanting offbeat destination in Himachal Pradesh, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Nestled amidst lush greenery and pine-covered mountains, this charming village is adorned with cascading waterfalls, serene lakes, and delicate meadows, making it one of the most peaceful places you can visit.
A Perfect Weekend Getaway from Delhi
Located in the picturesque Tirthan Valley at an elevation of 1,600 meters, Jibhi is an ideal weekend retreat from Delhi. This serene valley is perfect for hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and exploring uncharted hill settlements. Surrounded by stunning green forests and overlooked by diverse mountain ranges, Jibhi presents a beginner-friendly adventure, striking the perfect balance between tranquility and exploration.
A weekend trip from Delhi to Jibhi in Tirthan Valley is an excellent way to rejuvenate and detox from the daily grind. With options for both short, scenic treks and longer, thrill-filled hikes, Jibhi stands out as one of the top choices for a refreshing getaway.
You’ll also have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture, interacting with the warm and welcoming residents of Jibhi.
Things to Do in Jibhi, Tirthan Valley
- Trek to Jalori Pass: Experience breathtaking views and invigorating trails.
- Visit Jibhi Waterfall: Witness the stunning beauty of this sparkling waterfall.
- Hike to Serolsar Lake: Enjoy a peaceful trek to this serene, high-altitude lake.
- Trout Fishing: Engage in fishing in the pristine waters of Tirthan Valley.
- Savor Local Cuisine: Delight in delicious meals at charming cafes like Old School and Books n Flowers.
How to Reach Jibhi, Tirthan Valley
By Flight
- Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport
- Distance: 52 km (approximately 2 hours)
- From Delhi: Take a direct flight from Indira Gandhi Airport to Bhuntar, which typically takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes.
By Train
- Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar
- Distance: 124 km (approximately 4.5 hours)
- From Delhi: Take a train to Chandigarh, then a bus to Joginder Nagar, or fly to Kangra Airport followed by a cab to Joginder Nagar. Direct buses to Jibhi are also available.
By Bus
- Nearest Bus Stand: Aut Bus Stop
- Distance: 34 km (approximately 1.5 hours)
- From Delhi: Direct buses and Volvos are available to Aut Bus Stop, with boarding points at Majnu Ka Tila and Delhi ISBT Kashmiri Gate.
Places to Explore Around Jibhi, Tirthan Valley
- Kullu Valley: Known as the “Valley of Gods,” Kullu offers stunning scenic views, majestic lakes, and adventurous activities.
- Gushaini Village: A peaceful village at the entrance of the Great Himalayan National Park, perfect for nature lovers.
- Sainj Valley: A hidden treasure away from the crowds, offering refreshing natural beauty.
- Shangarh Village: A little-known gem in Sainj Valley, boasting breathtaking sunsets and scenic beauty.
- Chehni Village: A short trek leads you to this picturesque village, renowned for its stunning landscapes.
Jibhi, with its undeniable beauty and charm, is the perfect destination for a weekend escape from Delhi. Embrace the serenity and adventure that this hidden gem has to offer!
Kasol, Himachal Pradesh
Nestled at an altitude of 1,580 meters, the picturesque hill village of Kasol offers breathtaking landscapes adorned with vibrant coniferous forests, frost-covered highlands, and winding rivers. This charming destination is a perfect blend of natural beauty and adventure, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking diverse experiences.
Why Kasol is a Must-Visit Destination
Kasol caters to a wide range of interests, whether you’re drawn to trekking, camping, rafting, sightseeing, partying, or spiritual exploration. It’s renowned for its scenic trekking trails, including routes to Kheerganga, Yanker Pass, Sar Pass, and Pin Parbati Pass. Visitors from India and beyond flock to Kasol to immerse themselves in its stunning vistas and tranquil ambiance.
More than just a backpacker’s paradise or a tourist hotspot, Kasol serves as a retreat for those looking to escape the demands of everyday life and experience the Himalayas’ allure. It stands out as one of the top weekend getaway destinations from Delhi.
Things to Do in Kasol
- Stroll to Chalal Village: Enjoy a leisurely walk through the picturesque trails leading to this quaint village.
- Camp by the Parvati River: Set up camp along the beautiful riverbanks and soak in the serene surroundings.
- Visit Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara: Pay homage at this sacred site known for its spiritual significance and hot springs.
- Cafe Hopping: Indulge in delightful culinary experiences at popular cafes like Evergreen, Moondance, and Jim Morrison.
- Trek to Kheerganga: Embrace adventure by trekking to this stunning destination, known for its hot springs and panoramic views.
How to Reach Kasol
By Flight
- Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport
- Distance to Kasol: 31 km (approximately 1 hour)
- From Delhi: Catch a direct flight from Indira Gandhi Airport, typically taking around 1 hour and 30 minutes.
By Train
- Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar
- Distance to Kasol: 127 km (approximately 4 hours)
- From Delhi: Take a train to Chandigarh, then a bus to Joginder Nagar, or fly to Kangra Airport followed by a taxi. Direct buses to Kasol are also available.
By Bus
- Nearest Bus Stand: Kasol Private Bus Stand
- Distance to Kasol: 350 m (approximately 5 minutes)
- From Delhi: Direct buses and Volvo services operate from Majnu Ka Tila and Delhi ISBT Kashmiri Gate to Kasol Private Bus Stand.
Places to Explore Around Kasol
- Pulga Village: Famous for its scenic views, enchanting waterfalls, and apple orchards, Pulga is a paradise for nature lovers, featuring charming wooden homestays.
- Grahan Village: Situated at an altitude of 7,700 ft, this serene village boasts only about 50 houses, providing an intimate setting for meaningful interactions with locals.
- Buddha Palace: A delightful spot known for its delicious food and warm ambiance, perfect for unwinding during your weekend escape.
- Malana Village: Located at 8,700 ft, this unique village is famous for its Malana cream, derived from cannabis Indica, and offers a captivating cultural experience.
- Waichin Valley: Above Malana, this breathtaking valley, often called the “Magic Valley,” lives up to its name with stunning landscapes and serene beauty.
Kasol is not just a destination; it’s an experience waiting to unfold. Whether you’re seeking adventure or tranquility, this hidden gem in Himachal Pradesh promises unforgettable memories. Plan your weekend getaway to Kasol today!
Nag Tibba Trek
Tucked away in the heart of Uttarakhand, the Nag Tibba Trek is celebrated as one of the best weekend getaways from Delhi. This trek offers year-round opportunities to explore lush green trails, winding through enchanting forests and valleys, ultimately leading you to the stunning Nag Tibba summit.
At the summit, you’ll be captivated by the breathtaking views of Bandarpunch Peak, Kedarkantha Peak to the north, Kala Nag, Srikanta, the Gangotri mountain range, Doon Valley, and the snow-capped peaks of Changabang. The panoramic scenery from this vantage point is nothing short of spectacular.
Trek Details
The adventure begins in the charming village of Pantwari, with the Nag Tibba Trek covering a total distance of 16 km round trip. Typically taking 2 to 3 days, the trek is easily accessible from Dehradun, which boasts excellent connectivity to major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Kolkata.
For those planning to trek from Delhi or nearby NCR cities like Noida, Gurugram, Ghaziabad, and Faridabad, the Nag Tibba Trek can be conveniently completed over a single weekend.
Things to Do in Nag Tibba
- Bird Watching: Immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature while spotting various bird species.
- Nature Walks: Enjoy peaceful strolls along the scenic trails surrounded by diverse flora.
- Explore Himalayan Peaks: Take in the stunning views of the majestic Himalayan ranges.
- Photography: Capture the mesmerizing landscapes and create lasting memories.
- Visit Local Villages: Engage with the local culture and hospitality of the villages near Pantwari.
- Flora and Fauna: Discover the rich biodiversity of the region, making it a nature lover’s paradise.
How to Reach Nag Tibba
-
By Air:
- Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport
- Distance to Pantwari: 128 km (approximately 4.5 hours)
-
By Train:
- Nearest Railway Station: Dehradun Railway Station
- Distance to Pantwari: 103 km (approximately 4 hours)
-
By Bus:
- Nearest Bus Stand: Mussoorie Bus Stand
- Distance to Pantwari: 70 km (approximately 2.5 hours)
Places to Explore Around Nag Tibba
- Mussoorie: Known for its stunning scenery, Mussoorie is a delightful nearby destination just 75 km from Nag Tibba.
- Kanatal: Nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of the Garhwal Himalayas, this charming hill station offers a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
- Dehradun: With its vibrant scenery, Dehradun enchants visitors with its picturesque temples and architectural wonders.
The Nag Tibba Trek promises an unforgettable adventure, blending natural beauty, thrilling exploration, and cultural immersion. Plan your weekend getaway and experience the allure of the Himalayas!
Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Manali is one of India’s most cherished destinations, offering a delightful blend of adventure, authentic culture, local cuisine, and tranquility. Nestled in the majestic Himalayas, this charming town presents breathtaking views of the Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar ranges, which are often cloaked in snow throughout the year.
With numerous trekking options nearby, Manali serves as an ideal base for exploring the stunning Himalayas. Popular treks such as the Hampta Pass Trek, Bhrigu Lake Trek, Kheerganga Trek, and Beas Kund Trek beckon adventure enthusiasts.
In the adjacent town of Kullu, the River Beas provides thrilling rafting opportunities, adding to the excitement of your visit.
The film “Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani” has played a significant role in making Manali a sought-after destination. While a weekend might not be enough to fully explore this enchanting place, it will undoubtedly leave you longing to return.
Manali is a visual retreat, promising to fill your suitcase with cherished memories, much like Naina’s journey in the film.
Things to Do in Manali
- Paragliding: Experience the thrill of soaring above the beautiful landscapes.
- Mountain Biking: Explore the rugged terrains on a bicycle.
- Hampta Pass Trek: Embark on an unforgettable trek through stunning vistas.
- Hidimba Devi Temple: Visit this ancient temple surrounded by cedar forests.
- Jogini Waterfall: Enjoy the serene beauty of this picturesque waterfall.
How to Reach Manali
-
By Air:
- Nearest Airport: Kullu Manali Airport
- Distance to Manali: 50 km (approximately 1 hr 14 min)
- Delhi to Kullu Manali Airport: Domestic flights from Indira Gandhi Airport take about 1 hr 15 mins.
-
By Train:
- Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station
- Distance to Manali: 146.5 km (approximately 4 hr 25 min)
- Delhi to Joginder Nagar: Travel to Chandigarh by train and then take a bus to Joginder Nagar. Alternatively, fly from Delhi to Kangra Airport and take a taxi to Joginder Nagar. Direct bus options are also available.
-
By Bus:
- Nearest Bus Stand: Manali Bus Depot
- Distance to Manali: 200 m (approximately 1 min)
- Delhi to Manali Bus Depot: Direct buses and Volvos are available from Majnu Ka Tila and Delhi ISBT Kashmiri Gate.
Places to Explore Around Manali
- Patalsu Peak: At an elevation of 4,200 m, this moderately easy summit offers stunning views and beautiful stretches of grasslands.
- Rohtang Pass: A scenic gateway to the Lahaul and Spiti Valleys, this pass captures the essence of a Bollywood dream.
- Solang Valley: Nestled between Beas Kund and Solang Village, this valley is nothing short of paradise.
- Deo Tibba: The second-highest peak in the Pir Panjal range, offering thrilling adventures for weekend travelers.
- Parvati Valley: Known as the “Amsterdam of India,” this valley is celebrated for its picturesque landscapes and leisurely ambiance.
Manali promises an unforgettable getaway, rich in natural beauty and adventure, making it a perfect choice for your next weekend escape from Delhi!
McLeodganj, Himachal Pradesh
Nestled near Dharamshala, McLeodganj is a breathtaking hill station perched at an elevation of 2,082 meters. In recent years, it has become a favored destination for travelers seeking adventure, spirituality, culinary delights, or simply a place to unwind. With its diverse offerings, visiting McLeodganj feels like winning the lottery.
Often referred to as “Little Lhasa,” McLeodganj is home to a significant Tibetan population and is the residence of the Dalai Lama. The rich culture and deep spiritual values draw many visitors, making it a unique and captivating place to explore.
A weekend getaway from Delhi to McLeodganj promises an experience that will make you forget the stress of Mondays. It offers the perfect blend of thrill and spirituality, making for a refreshing escape.
Things to Do in McLeodganj
- Dal Lake: Relax by the soothing blue waters of this picturesque lake.
- Triund Trek: Explore the majestic bounty of the surrounding mountains.
- Tibetan Museum: Appreciate the rich art and culture of the Tibetan community.
- Bhagsu Trek: Embark on an adventurous trek to Bhagsu.
- Namgyal and Nechung Monasteries: Discover the tranquility and beauty of these revered monasteries.
How to Reach McLeodganj
-
By Air:
- Nearest Airport: Gaggal Airport, Dharamshala
- Distance to McLeodganj: 17.8 km (approximately 44 min)
- Delhi to Gaggal Airport: Direct flights from Indira Gandhi Airport typically take about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
-
By Train:
- Nearest Railway Station: Pathankot Railway Station
- Distance to McLeodganj: 88 km (approximately 2.5 hrs)
- Delhi to Pathankot: Take a direct train from Delhi Railway Station, covering roughly 539 km in about 9 hours and 10 minutes.
-
By Bus:
- Nearest Bus Stand: McLeodganj Bus Stand
- Distance to McLeodganj: 800 m (approximately 3 min)
- Delhi to McLeodganj: There are 11 direct buses available from New Delhi, which can be boarded from Majnu Ka Tila and Delhi ISBT Kashmiri Gate. The journey takes a minimum of 10 hours and 40 minutes.
Places to Explore Around McLeodganj
- Chamba: This historic town is known for its temples and palaces that preserve its rich medieval heritage, offering plenty to see and do.
- Parashar Lake: Nestled in the Kullu Valley, this pristine freshwater lake is perfect for a serene trek, allowing you to connect with nature without too much exertion.
- Bir Billing: Known as the paragliding capital of India, Bir Billing offers thrilling adventures and stunning views, making it a must-visit for adrenaline seekers.
- Shimla: The capital and largest city of Himachal Pradesh, Shimla is a popular tourist destination, renowned for its beauty and unique charm.
- Palampur: Famous for its picturesque tea gardens and breathtaking deodar forests, Palampur boasts stunning scenic beauty that captivates every visitor.
McLeodganj promises an unforgettable retreat filled with adventure, culture, and tranquility, making it an ideal weekend escape from Delhi!
