Hidden Weekend Getaways Near Delhi You Wish You Knew Sooner

Amanpreet Singh | Mar 11, 2025, 13:09 IST
Neemrana, Rajasthan
Delhi’s frenetic pace can wear anyone down, but why settle for the same old weekend haunts when secret sanctuaries await just beyond the horizon? These 14 offbeat getaways—far from the madding crowds of Shimla or Jaipur—promise untouched beauty, whispered histories, and a chance to recharge in nature’s embrace. From crumbling forts to misty valleys, here’s your ticket to Delhi’s best-kept weekend secrets.

1. Neemrana, Rajasthan ( around 120 km )

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Neemrana, Rajasthan

Hidden in the Aravali folds, Neemrana is a time capsule crowned by the 15th-century Neemrana Fort Palace. Now a heritage hotel, it’s a royal retreat minus the tourist hordes. Roam its echoing halls, zip-line over rugged cliffs (India’s first!), or explore the ancient Baori stepwell nearby.

2. Lansdowne, Uttarakhand ( around 250 km )

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Lansdowne, Uttarakhand

A hush falls over Lansdowne, a Garhwal hill station at 1,706 meters where pine forests guard colonial secrets. Boat on Bhulla Lake, trek to Tip-in-Top for Himalayan vistas, or linger at St. John’s Church. It’s Delhi’s quiet escape.

3. Kesroli, Rajasthan ( around 160 km )

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Kesroli, Rajasthan

In Alwar’s rustic heart, Kesroli’s 14th-century Hill Fort Kesroli stands as a sentinel of solitude. Now a heritage stay, it’s a portal to unspoiled Rajasthan. Wander its weathered walls, stroll the countryside, or sip wine from nearby vineyards.

4. Jibhi Tirthan Valley, Himachal Pradesh (around 490 km)

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Jibhi Tirthan Valley, Himachal Pradesh

Jibhi whispers serenity from Himachal’s Banjar Valley, where pine forests cradle waterfalls and the Tirthan River runs pure. Trek to Chehni Kothi, fish in tranquil waters, or lose yourself in silence.

5. Bhimtal, Uttarakhand (around 300 km)

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Bhimtal, Uttarakhand

Bhimtal’s serene lake shimmers at 1,370 meters, a Kumaon gem eclipsed by Nainital’s fame. Boat across its waters, spot kingfishers, or visit Bhimeshwar Temple. The Butterfly Research Centre is a quirky bonus.

6. Tatapani, Himachal Pradesh (around 400 km)

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Tatapani, Himachal Pradesh

Near Shimla, Tatapani’s hot sulphur springs bubble up nature’s spa along the Sutlej River. Soak your cares away, raft the rapids, or camp under a starlit sky. It’s raw and real.

7. Kanatal, Uttarakhand (around 310 km)

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Kanatal, Uttarakhand

At 2,590 meters near Mussoorie, Kanatal hides in apple orchards and Himalayan shadows. Trek to Surkanda Devi Temple, camp among pines, or marvel at snow-dusted peaks.

8. Mukteshwar, Uttarakhand (around 340 km)

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Mukteshwar, Uttarakhand

Mukteshwar, at 2,285 meters, unveils Kumaon’s wild beauty with Nanda Devi views. Pray at Mukteshwar Dham (350 years old), trek to Bhalu Gaad Falls, or climb rocky cliffs. Orchards sweeten the deal.

9. Kufri, Himachal Pradesh (around 360 km)

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Kufri, Himachal Pradesh

Kufri, at 2,510 meters near Shimla, swaps crowds for snowy slopes and pine trails. Ski in winter, hike to Mahasu Peak, or visit the Himalayan Nature Park. It’s a cozy cocoon.

10. Parwanoo, Himachal Pradesh (around 270 km)

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Parwanoo, Himachal Pradesh

Straddling the Haryana-Himachal border at 1,400 meters, Parwanoo tempts with a Timber Trail cable car soaring over Shivalik hills. Wander orchards, pray at Kali Mata Temple, or breathe easy.

11. Mashobra, Himachal Pradesh (around 340 km)

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Mashobra, Himachal Pradesh

Mashobra, at 2,146 meters beyond Shimla, cradles oak and deodar forests. Hike the Craignano trail, spot wildlife in the Reserve Forest Sanctuary, or revel in colonial calm.

12. Chail, Himachal Pradesh (around 350 km)

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Chail, Himachal Pradesh

Chail, at 2,250 meters, boasts the world’s highest cricket ground and a royal palace. Roam pine woods, explore the wildlife sanctuary, or soak in valley views. Quiet reigns here.

13. Chakrata, Uttarakhand (around 330 km)

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Chakrata, Uttarakhand

Chakrata, at 2,118 meters, guards its secrets in Dehradun’s forests. Chase Tiger Falls, explore Budher Caves, or watch sunsets from Chilmiri Neck. It’s pure wilderness.

14. Dhanaulti, Uttarakhand (around 300 km)

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Dhanaulti, Uttarakhand

At 2,286 meters near Mussoorie, Dhanaulti drapes itself in deodar and mist. Stroll Eco Park, trek to Surkanda Devi, or savor the stillness. It’s nature’s lullaby.

These escapes aren’t just dots on a map—they’re portals to peace, adventure, and stories untold. Swap the city’s clamor for a weekend of whispers in the wild. Which hidden gem will you uncover first?

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