New Delhi: For the past two years, most of us have been confined at home because of the pandemic, wishing to get out for a little excursion. Now that tourism is resuming with both domestic and foreign excursions on the rise, let us prepare to breathe in some fresh air and take a vacation from our boring routine.
But, why always have long vacations? Sneaking out for a quick road trip is equally interesting and exciting! So, if you are yearning to go out on a short vacation before you fall back on to the rat race again, here are some intriguing and offbeat destinations that you can visit from Delhi for a quick getaway.
1. Jaipur- If you're looking for a spot to visit on a short vacation, this is among the nearest options for Delhi residents. It is a beautiful journey with well-built roads and a gorgeous landscape, only approximately 220 kilometers from Delhi. This is something that can be finished in two to three days, at most! The gorgeous Amer Fort, Jaigarh Fort, and Nahargarh Fort are must-visit if you are in Jaipur. These forts are renowned for their remarkable splendour and grandeur.
Sanganer and Chokhi Dhani are two other attractive locations near the outskirts of Jaipur. Sanganer, which is renowned for its magnificent Jain temples and palace treasures, is a popular destination for the Jain Community. A mock village called Chokhi Dhani, located about 20 kilometers from Jaipur, is a great representation of Rajasthani culture, cuisine, customs, and legacy.
2. Shimla- This is another place that is close to Delhi. So, if you want to escape the scorching heat of Delhi, this hill station which is approximately 300 kilometers from the capital is a fantastic tourist spot. The capital city of Himachal Pradesh, which is located along the foothills of the Himalayas is widely renowned for its stunning pine and oak woods. Additionally, there are several temples, including The Jakhoo Temple and Tara Devi Temple, where you may also go when you're in Shimla.
3. Narkanda- It is a town that is encircled by the Himalayan Mountains and is situated around 60 kilometers from Shimla. Due to its mystical natural beauty and lovely apple orchards, it is a particularly well-liked tourist destination. One of the main tourist attractions in Narkanda is Tannu Jabar Lake. There is also a temple near the lake which is a must-visit for all tourists and devotees coming here. The hill offers a panoramic view of the entire town below. This place is also very popular for skiing during winters and is called the Switzerland of India at that time.
4. Hatu peak- This is another place that is only 71 kilometers from Shimla and is encircled by thick stands of maple, oak, and conifer trees. It is one of the highest peaks among the scenic hills close to Shimla. Most people choose to trek up to this top because the panoramic view of the entire city from the top is worth the effort. A shrine to the goddess Kali sits atop the mountain and showcases regional woodworking and construction.
5. Kanatal- Kanatal, near Mussoorie is another offbeat destination for a road trip. It is around 311 kilometers from Delhi. The best time to visit Kanatal is from April to October. The charming hill station offers various homestays that serve organic cuisine and give visitors a taste of the simple life and is bordered by apple orchards. As you connect with nature, you may stroll along winding lanes surrounded by scented rhododendron, deodar, and pine forests.
6. McLeod ganj- Although it is a bit far away from Delhi, it is a popular tourist destination and is approximately a 10-hour drive. It is a beautiful place which has lovely monasteries. The town is also well-known for its thangkas, Tibetan clothing, carpets, and other mementos. The Dalai Lama's temple, Tsuglagkhang or Tsuglag Khang, is the town's most significant Buddhist location.
7. Dharamshala- Also known as the winter capital of Himachal Pradesh, Dharamshala is surrounded by dense coniferous forests mainly consisting of stately Deodar and Cedar trees. The main street in this location is lined with shops selling Tibetan arts and crafts and restaurants serving a range of Tibetan foods, from momos to thenthuk. Naturally, it is a place of pilgrimage for exiled Tibetans. Visitors come to see the Dalai Lama, explore the museum, listen to the monks' debate, and simply take in a great energy that the location exudes.
8. Tirthan Valley- Tirthan Valley, located at an elevation of 1600 meters above sea level and known as "Himachal's Best Kept Secret," is the ideal vacation location and is endowed with a variety of natural treasures. It is the ideal location to go if you are exhausted from the noise and pollution of ordinary city life. It has some of the best hiking chances in the world and is a hikers' heaven. Not to mention bird enthusiasts who camp out for days in the middle of this park. It doesn't get much better than Tirthan for an escape from not just the overloaded city life but also an escape from the overcrowded Himachali retreats.
9. Kufri- A popular route from Delhi to Kufri, a charming little village in Himachal Pradesh, is by car. Even if the north of India has several hill stations, it is always fun to visit a new location and discover it. This is one of the reasons Kufri, a little town approximately 20 kilometers from Shimla, has developed into a second popular vacation spot. The majority of vacationers eagerly anticipate the scenic beauty and natural splendour, which is a visual delight. The primary attractions of this location are the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and religious structures, the natural skiing slopes, and the hiking trails.
10. Jim Corbett National Park- India's oldest national park, the Corbett National Park, is well-known for its wildlife and other natural attractions for tourists from all over the world. The distance from Delhi to Corbett is 260 kilometers. Located in Ramgarh, it is an easy as well as the most adventurous getaway. One of the most exhilarating experiences someone may have is an elephant ride or the jungle safari. Along with other sports and activities, river rafting is also very exciting and is a must-to-do activity if you are visiting Jim Corbett National Park.