Living in and around Delhi-NCR has its own merits and unlike any other city in India, Delhites have a host of options when it comes to travelling. But spending money on the usual travel destinations often leads to disappointment as they are expensive during holiday time and are greatly crowded. But if you want your weekend to be a mini vacation, here are some offbeat travel places which are neither very far, nor will try to burn a hole in your pocket.
- Lansdowne, Uttarakhand
Lansdowne is a small town in the Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand being just 250 kilometres from Delhi. The town stands at an altitude of 1700 metres above the sea level. It is a perfect getaway for people who just want to laze around in the weekend admiring the beauty of nature.
What to do: For the adventurous lot, there are activities like trekking, bird watching and even boating.
Places to visit: Bulla Lake and St. Mary’s Church (Oldest church in town).
- Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh
Popularly known as the “Switzerland of India”, Khajjiar is a small town located 24 km from Dalhousie. It is heaven for trekking enthusiasts with a beautiful camping site and excellent views. The scenic beauty of this hill station is breathtaking and leaves many travellers in awe.
What to do: The best entertainment in Khajjiar would be to go for long walks around the lake or camping in the forests.
Places to visit: Golden Devi Temple, Lord Shiva Statue.
- McLeodganj, Himachal Pradesh
A suburb near Dharamshala which is popularly known as “Dhasa” because of its large population of Tibetans, McLeodganj is another popular getaway in Himachal Pradesh which offers a taste of Buddhist and Tibetan culture.
Places to visit: The Dal Lake, St John in the Wilderness (An Anglican church), Triund Hill.
What to do: This is the ideal place for those who love Tibetan cuisine. All foodies must therefore go there for sure.
- Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
Located in the middle of the Thar Desert, Jaisalmer is popularly known as the “Golden City” of India. It gives a taste of shrewd desert life of Rajasthan and also charms you with its grandeur and planning, design and construction.
What to do: Camel rides and Desert Safari.
Places to visit: Jaisalmer Fort.
- Auli, Uttarakhand
Auli is India’s most preferred Skiing destination after Gulmarg. Located 262 kms from Delhi, Auli is a perfect getaway for adventure hungry and sport enthusiasts. You can ski, go on Gondola rides, take a trek through Oak forests and watch sunrise from the highest hills. There is also the world’s highest manmade lake which some travellers say is a must visit if you ever go to Auli.
So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and go explore and have an adventure to remember.
