The mad rush of the week, the deafening sound of the horn, the hours spent waiting in the traffic jams and a monotonous 10am to 7pm schedule more sounding like 8am to 10pm schedule. That is maddening and yes that is Delhi, the commercial centre of North India. With such a lifestyle, people always look for escapes on the weekends to rejuvenate them for the week yet to come. Delhi being well connected through roads there are interesting weekend get-away destinations that anyone would love indulge in. Here is a list of 10 weekend getaway destinations near Delhi that will take you away from the rush of this metropolitan city.
1. Jim Corbett National Park
Some 250 kms away from Delhi is the oldest National Park, Jim Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand. The park is a home to many wild animals including the tigers of Bengal. The place is also rich in its flora and fauna. The trip to this place is incomplete without the jungle safari. It is a perfect blend of wildlife and scenic beauty.
2. Agra
The home to one of the seven wonders in World, Taj Mahal, Agra is about 210 kms from Delhi. It is famous amongst tourists from over the world and this place is full of romance. Sitting on the banks of river Yamuna the city is busy and it is one of the most populous cities of Uttar Pradesh. Apart from Taj Mahal, the Agra Fort, Sikandra Garden and Itmad-ud-Daula garden as also worth visiting. The city shows takes you the Mughal era as most part of the city is an architectural marvel built by the Mughals.
3. Haridwar
When it comes to religion Haridwar and Rishkesh are the first choice. Haridwar, being one of the seven holiest cities is a popular destination amongst the Hindus. The place is full of divinity and the evening Ganga Aarti is a mesmerising sight. The place is about 220 kms away from Delhi.
4. Rishikesh
Another 25 kms away from Haridwar is Rishikesh which is a heaven for adventure lovers. White-water rafting, bungee jumping, fox-flying, etc. are some activities to give your adrenaline the required rush. Away from the rush of the holy city this place is youngster’s solace.
5. Damadam Lake
About 60 kms from Delhi is the largest natural lake of Haryana, Damadam Lake. While the mountains of Aravali form a beautiful backdrop, the lake is a formation by filling a depression in the mountain range. Activities like boating, rock climbing, parasailing, hot-air ballooning, cycling and trekking attract a lot of weekends to enjoy amidst nature.
6. Rajaji National Park
Situated in an area of about 820 sq km, Rajaji National Park is about 181 km from Delhi. With a rich bio-diversity this national park is spread on either sides of the River Ganga. Animals like Jungle cats, jackals, tigers, sloth bears, barking deer and cobra among many others are easily spotted in the region. Birds like kingfisher, fire tail sunbird and pheasants also find their home in this national park.
7. Dehradun
The capital of Uttarakhand, Dehradun lies about 236 kms away from New Delhi. The picturesque destination is a rendezvous with the mighty Himalayas. The place finds its importance in both the epic mythologies of The Ramayana and The Mahabharata. The valley town is dotted with a lot of temples over the city. The famous ones are Tapkeshwar Temple and Santala Devi Temple. The Malsi deer Park, Gucchupani, Chandrbhani and The Kalanga Monument are other places to visit while here.
8. Neemrana Fort
About 120 kms from Delhi is the magnificent palace built in the 15th century. If you are looking for a luxurious get away from the monotonous city life, Neemrana fort is your rescue. The area also offers activities like zip lining that gives you a panoramic view of the palace. Evenings from the terrace of the palace are surreal experiences while the days could be indulged into self pampering.
9. Mathura
The birthplace of Lord Krishna, Mathura is situated about 180kms away from Delhi. If you want to drench in the holiness and feel a sense of peace and calm, this is the place you would love to be in. With a lot of temples here around and the being of historic importance, it is one of the most visited yet the most calm city. Situated on the banks of river Yamuna is not only a pilgrim to Hindus but people of other religions too pay a visit on regular basis.
10. Lansdowne
Laying in the laps of Himalayas this beautiful town gets its name from Lord Lansdowne (the viceroy of India from 1888-1894). About 280 kms away from Delhi, this hilll town near Delhi has a cool climate and a pleasant atmosphere. The lush-green land and view of Himalayan peaks such as Chaukhamba & Trishul is a sight to experience. At Lansdowne one can indulge in activities like trekking, bird-watching, boating or can just stroll around an array of oak and pine trees with a plenty of fresh and refreshing air.
Whether you are a spiritual seeker or an adventure junkie or a person who seeks his solace in the arms nature the neighboring states of Delhi have a plenty of options for you to choose from. These places will give an experience that would be spoken of years later. So pack your bags and leave for a weekend ditching your daily schedules to rejuvenate yourself.
