Got a gypsy soul but caught up in the 9-5 corporate grind? You don’t necessarily have to quit your job or empty your bank account to become a traveler. To incorporate travel into your daily life, use long weekends and plan in advance. If you live in Delhi or the surrounding area, these are the 7 best weekend getaways you must take, Äî
1. Kasauli, Himachal Pradesh
A small, quiet and not-so-crowded hill station, Kasauli is ideal if you want to escape to a pristine and green holiday. With the government banning all new construction here, this hill station has managed to retain its natural charm, giving you the chance to experience a true retreat.
How to reach
By plane: The nearest airport is Chandigarh and Kasauli is a short drive from there.
Per track: Kalka is the nearest railhead and taxis normally charge around INR 1000.
On the road: The place is well connected by roads and you can opt for a bus or taxi ride
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Hotels from Rs. 1100
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2. Lansdowne, Uttarakhand
Oddly, the closest hill station to Delhi is also one of the lesser known. Lansdowne is a little piece of paradise in Uttarakhand, the perfect weekend getaway that is neither too far from nor too close to Delhi.
How to reach
Per track: Kotdwar is the nearest railhead and from there you can opt for a private cab (INR 1000) or shared taxis.
On the road: The place is well connected by roads from Delhi.
Hotels from Rs. 1700
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3. Chail, Himachal Pradesh
Home is probably the highest cricket ground in the world. Chail is a picture perfect hill station.
In summer and autumn you can enjoy relaxing walks and in winter you can have fun in the powder snow. You can also visit the ancient Gurudwara Sahib, one of the main attractions here, which is located about a kilometer from Chail Bazar.
How to reach
By plane: Chandigarh is the nearest airport at about 110 km.
Per track: Kalka is the nearest railhead and a taxi ride will cost you around INR 2000.
On the road: Chail is a 337 km / 8-hour drive from Delhi. Buses going to Shimla will take you to Kandaghat from where you can take buses to Chail Bus Stand.
Hotels from Rs. 800
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4. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Well, we all know that it is one of the most touristy places in Himachal, but Shimla still has that old world charm that makes it so special. Head to the Queen of the Hills for a glimpse of colonial history, beautiful buildings, a bustling Mall Road and the charm of a forgotten era.
How to reach
By plane: Shimla’s Jubbarhatti Airport is connected to major cities and a taxi will normally charge you INR 100.
Per track: Kalka is the nearest railhead and you can also experience the magic of the toy train if you travel from Delhi.
On the road: Shimla is well connected by roads and you can opt for the luxurious Himachal Roadways buses.
Hotels from Rs. 900
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5. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
One of the most favored honeymoon destinations in North India, the lovely hill station of Mussoorie makes an excellent weekend getaway from Delhi. With a happening and major Mall Road, the hill station balances the serenity of the hills with the excitement of shopping and dining.
How to reach
By plane: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the nearest airport and a taxi ride from here to Mussoorie costs INR 2,000.
Per track: Dehradun is the nearest railhead and you can easily get a taxi or cab here.
On the road: Mussoorie is an hour’s drive north of Dehradun on the Rajpur Road and a 7-hour drive from Delhi via Meerut, Roorkee, Mohand and Dehradun. Mussoorie is connected to New Tehri (84 km) on NH 58 via Landour, Dhanaulti, Kanatal and Chamba.
Hotels from Rs. 1200
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6. Nainital, Uttarakhand
Hit the road and head straight for this Kumaoni beauty. Walk down the Mall Road as you shop for trinkets and candles, with the serene Naini Lake providing the perfect backdrop. Take a boat ride in Lake Naini, one of the famous landmarks in the city, take a walk to see the Governor’s House or trek around Camel’s Back. In short, sit back, relax and rejuvenate your senses.
How to reach
By plane: Pantnagar Airport is the nearest airport
Per track: Kathgodam is the nearest railhead and you can easily get taxis from it.
On the road: Nainital is well connected by roads.
Hotels from Rs. 850
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7. Sattal en Naukuchiatal, Uttarakhand
Naukuchiatal, one of the most beautiful lakes in the Kumaon Lake District, is an azure crystal clear lake, set amidst beautiful oak and pine forests. Sattal, with seven interconnected lakes, is a quintessential tourist town with something for everyone: from adventure seekers and backpackers to families and businesses, they all converge here.
How to reach
By plane: Pantnagar Airport is the nearest airport
Per track: Kathgodam is the nearest railhead and you can easily get taxis from it.
On the road: Naukuchiatal and Sattal are in close proximity and are well connected by roads.
Hotels from Rs. 1000
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It’s time to pack your bags, book your stay and make the most of your time on these popular weekend getaways from Delhi. These are excellent places to venture out with your family.
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Why You Should Never Store Your Carry-on Behind You on a Plane
