Dilwalon ka Shahar, or Delhi, is the microcosm of India. Every nook and alley here has people from different parts of the country. It is also home to iconic and historic monuments such as the Qutub Minar, Jama Masjid, Red Fort, and Rashtrapati Bhavan.
Further, Delhi has the famous Jawaharlal Nehru University, where the creme de la creme of the country study. Even taking a walk down the streets of Delhi and exploring its markets is a one-of-a-kind experience.
The city, with many colors and moods, is like the tapestry of human lives in the country. So, no wonder you will find many offbeat destinations near Delhi, and you must get your bags ready!
Must-Visit Offbeat Destinations Near Delhi
Are you a Delhite looking for a quick weekend escapade? Or do you want to explore the quaint soul of Delhi? Here are some lesser-known places near Delhi that you can include in your itinerary.
1. Dausa:
Did you watch Christopher Nolan’s “The Dark Knight Rises”? Remember the ‘pit’? Head to Dausa, a quaint traditional village near Jaipur that is home to the bewildering step well that featured in the Hollywood flick. Even if you haven’t watched the movie, you got to visit Dausa, as the village also hosts historical marvels such as Bhadrawati Palace and Khawaraoji. Located just 258 km away from Delhi, it is one of the offbeat destinations near Delhi that you can visit even with a day’s off at work.
2. Pangot:
Pangot is a charming hill town in Nainital and is birdwatcher’s trove. The place recorded around 580 bird species, and you never know how many you may encounter on a trip to this mini bird paradise. Adding to your bird watching experience will be the scenic beauty of the place and the gorgeous resorts. Drive 310 km to encounter a few fluttering colorful feathers and enjoy a worthwhile holiday in Pangot.
3. Kanatal:
Kanatal is situated in between two of the most popular hill stations in the country, Mussoorie, and Chamba. If you want to enjoy peace and tranquility, then you should probably drive 317 km from Delhi to Kanatal, rather than stopping at any of the two commercial hill stations. In addition to the serenity, you can even experience adrenaline rush by participating in exciting adventure activities such as trekking, rock climbing, and rappelling amid the hilly terrains.
4. Naukuchiatal:
Located 320 km from Delhi, Naukuchiatal is one of the surreal travel destinations. The hill station is renowned as a lake of nine corners for its placid and beautiful lake, which is situated at 1220 mt above sea level and is 175 feet deep. The surrounding hills covered in trees and shrubs only augment the beauty and serenity of the place. Adding to your experience will be an independent art and music festival, Escape. Commercial hubs Nainital and Bhimtal surround Naukuchiatal on either side. So, the knife you are traveling to any of these locations, pay a visit to Naukuchiatal too.
5. Fagu:
3 km adrift Delhi is an enchanting little hill station in Shimla, Fagu. Enjoy the view of the majestic Himalayas, stone-walled houses, and lush green plantations all of which are soothing to the eyes. Besides the destination, the road trip to reach Fagu is as mesmerizing as the destination. Ensure you make the most of this offbeat weekend getaway because the peace and tranquility you get here are nowhere to be found in noisy Delhi.
6. Pithoragarh
In the Soar Valley of the Almora district in Uttarakhand, Pithoragarh is one of the most picturesque offbeat destinations near Delhi. Not to exaggerate, it can equal the divine beauty of Kashmir.
Pithoragarh also stands out as a place soaked in religious and spiritual fervor. It has the highly revered Om Parvat and Manasarovar Lake, and Pithoragarh is the home of Mount Kailash.
Do you want the closest encounter with nature? You can trek through the mountainous terrain and cherish its pristine charm.
Moreover, Pithoragarh is the largest city in the Kumaon region. Anyone trekking to the Darma Valley or Milam Glacier will have to start from Pithoragarh as the base camp.
Pithoragarh also holds a special place in the security of the country. It is a prominent base of the Indian Army.
You can choose Pithoragarh as your winter escapade or a honeymoon destination in the winter. In the months of January and February, Pithoragarh experiences snowfall. Skiing, snowboarding, and snow trekking are some of the most popular activities in this winter wonderland.
If you are in Pithoragarh in winter, you must not skip a visit to the Pithoragarh Fort. Located on a hilltop on the outskirts of Pithoragarh City, the fort looks out of the world with the embrace of the snow.
Are you a foodie? Pithoragarh is known for its delectable Kumaoni cuisine. You cannot miss delicacies like Bhatt ki Churma and Singhal.
7. Dundlod
Rajasthan has another offbeat destination near Delhi, Dundlod. Like most of Rajasthan, Dundlod also houses many forts and palaces. The iconic Dundlod Fort, built in the 17th century, now stands as a heritage hotel.
Dundlod is a less crowded place. So, if you are traveling solo or you want to keep it quiet, it will be one of the best offbeat destinations near Delhi for you. Visit this hidden gem between October and March to have the most amazing experience.
Further, if you are interested in the history of Dundlod or Rajasthan, you must visit the Dundlod Fort Museum. The paintings, weapons, and artifacts here tell many tales.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Where should I go for three days vacation in Delhi?
If you have a sudden plan of visiting Delhi and you need names of places then I will suggest you must visit these three places :
Haridwar
Manali
Dehradun
Where can I go for a solo trip from Delhi?
It’s very thrilling to travel all by yourself. It’s a good idea if you have started your solo trip journey from your own country. The top five places to travel solo are as follows :
Rishikesh
Mussoorie
Jaipur
Landsdowne
Kasauli
Where can I spend one day near Delhi?
Well, there are many places in Delhi where you spend the day. But, the answer will have first top 4 places where you can stay.
Camp Wild Dhauj
Camp Tikkling
Camp Mustang
Thakran Farms
What are the best places in Delhi for couples?
Couples can go everywhere but still, they look for a special place where they feel more comfortable. Therefore here are five top places in Delhi that you can visit with your partner.
Hauz Khas
Lodhi Garden
Buddha Grden
Deer Park
Delhi Eye
Pack Your Bags:
Delhi is surrounded by mesmerizing landscapes that are a far cry from the concrete and polluted scenes that you find in the city. Traveling to these spots can help you unclutter your mind from daily office work, schedules, and meetings. The availability of self-drive cars in Delhi has made it easy for people who do not own a vehicle to enjoy a pleasant getaway with family and friends. So, contact a car rental agency today to rent a car in Delhi and enjoy a pleasant drive to these offbeat destinations near Delhi.
Abdul Aziz Mondol is a professional blogger who is having a colossal interest in writing blogs and other jones of calligraphies. In terms of his professional commitments, he loves to share content related to business, finance, technology, and the gaming niche.
By recent estimates, about 40 people are killed, and many are still missing due to the heavy rain and flash floods. For the past three days, these flash floods are triggered by heavy monsoon clouds.
The flood and rain washed hundreds of villages, mud houses, bridges and roads in places of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh.
More heavy rain is predicted for the next two days, predicted by the Indian Meteorological Department. In the state of Himachal Pradesh, 36 people were killed, and more than hundreds of people were taken to relief camps.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MV3wPNQqVpM
In Uttarakhand, after a series of cloud bursts, 4 people died, and more than 13 people went missing. Ranjit Kumar Sinha of Uttarakhand’s disaster management department said,
We have deployed choppers to rescue people who are stuck in remote areas due to rain-related incidents. The rescue operation is in full swing.
Floods and landslides have become common in the Northern part of India during the monsoon months. Last year, during flash floods, at least 200 people were either killed or washed away by the rain in Uttarakhand.
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If you are traveling to India for the first time, you’ll for sure feel a little bit overwhelmed, confused and excited at the same time. Adjusting to the culture shock, frenetic energy and diversity will take some time. But worry not, once you get used to the Indian ways, you’ll develop a special bond with this place that will urge you to come back again and again.
If you are travelling to India, here are a few facts about India to keep in mind before and while you are on your trip:
Craziest Things To Know If You Are Traveling To India For The First Time
Indian travel reaches a new high in the first quarter of 2024. Indian airports have enjoyed the footfall of around 376 million passengers. Further, 69.6 million in this traffic were international passengers.
Moreover, the numbers show a massive improvement compared to 2019. Also, there is a 15% growth from the records in 2023. These numbers show why traveling in India is so huge this year.
So, it is no surprise that you are planning a trip to India this year. Is this the first time for you to visit this land of spirituality? Keep some smart tips handy to avoid travel hassles.
1. EXPLORE A PLACE AND TAKE YOUR TIME
When you are traveling to India for the first time, don’t hop from one place to another too soon because then you won’t really get a feel of the real India and experience the place deeply.
Take your time with a place. Stay there for a few days. Also, visit different sites in that place, get to know the local people and traditions of the place, and relish the experience.
For example, if you go to Kerala in South India, then stay there for at least 9 -10 days, exploring the local food and culture and different festivals.Many top-notch yoga retreats in India are also held in Kerala. If you want to experience the true spiritual gift of India, that is, yoga and meditation, you can attend a yoga and meditation retreat or a yoga teacher training course in one of the best yoga schools in Kerala.
2. EXPLORE MORE THAN JUST THE CITIES
The real beauty of India lies not only in the cities of India but also in the cities in the natural world.
The forests, the majestic mountains, the motherly rivers, the gorgeous oceans, the pristine beaches, and the divine landscapes will surely give you the experience of a lifetime.
Travel to the Himalayas in north India, the beaches of south India, the Western Ghats, and the Mangrove forests in the east and experience a deeper connection with Mother Nature.
3. DRESS ACCORDINGLY
In most parts of India, the dress code is Indian sarees and traditional Indian clothes though many people in the cities wear western clothing as well.
Please wear clothes that cover your body appropriately, especially when you are visiting the rural parts of India, temples, mosques, etc.
It is also a custom in India to open your shoes outside while visiting a temple or a religious site.
4. RESPECT THE INDIAN PEOPLE AND THE INDIAN CULTURE
Most Indians are very warm-hearted, which is truly one of the best qualities of Indian people. They are welcoming and love it when people from around the world visit the country.
Be respectful to the Indian people and Indian culture.
The Indian people will greet you with warmth and acceptance. Make sure you can be humble and return the same.
5. BE PREPARED TO EXPLORE DEEP SPIRITUALITY
One of the most well-known facts about India is that it is the origin of yoga and meditation. Many top-level yoga and meditation schools offer yoga retreats in India.
If you genuinely want to feel the deep spiritual connection of India and want to learn the ancient art of yoga and meditation, then you can enroll yourself in one of the best yoga schools in India.
Some of the best yoga schools of India are in Kerala in South India and Rishikesh in North Indian at the foothills of the Himalayan Mountains.
6. KEEP AN OPEN MIND
Keeping an open mind is a great way to travel the land of India as you will see things that you did not expect to, like children asking for food while you are stuck in traffic.
“In the 2023 Global Hunger Index, India ranks 111th out of the 125 countries with sufficient data to calculate 2023 GHI scores. With a score of 28.7 in the 2023 Global Hunger Index, India has a level of hunger that is serious.”
7. AVOID PDA
Avoid public displays of affection towards your partners, as this is not a common thing in the culture of India. Avoid kissing and excess public display of affection as a respect for the Indian culture
8. TRY OUT THE INDIAN FOOD
You will find all kinds of foods, dishes, and cuisines in India that will relish your taste buds. You can try out the North Indian dishes, the south Indian dishes, and the local food of whichever place you travel to.
Be mindful of the water you are consuming and make sure it is purified. Most places have clean water to drink, but it is advised to be mindful.
9. GET A SIM CARD
Getting a sim card would be helpful as you can use the internet to have easy navigation through the landscapes of India. A sim card will allow you to navigate google maps, best restaurants, and make calls to your home country.
Though only Indians can buy a SIM card in India, you can ask your trusted Indian friend to buy you a SIM card. There are also special provisions for sim cards for foreigners.
10. UNDERSTAND THE UNSPOKEN INDIAN LANGUAGE
Indians communicate a lot without words and just simple hand gestures or head nods. The classic Indian head nod is one of the most common communication methods in India. Usually, it means yes or no, depending on the context.
Understanding the unspoken Indian language can make your trip interesting and can be helpful too.
11. BEWARE OF PICKPOCKETS
While this advice applies to many places around the globe, it is always a good idea to keep your cash, cards, and belongings safe, especially in the populated cities of India.
12. FIND A TRUSTWORTHY INDIAN FRIEND WHO CAN GUIDE YOU
It is also wise to have a trustworthy Indian friend who can help you out in a foreign country and guide you in case you are confused about something.
Knowing someone trustworthy and intelligent in India who can help out is also an advantage.
13. DO YOUR RESEARCH
Do a good in-depth research of India and the places that call out to you the most in India. India is a vast country, and it is not advised to cover the whole country in one short trip.
Do your research and see which places you feel the most drawn to and then make a detailed itinerary of your trip.
14. KEEP YOUR CALM
Scamsters, touts, etc. often target foreigners to make some quick bucks by simply luring them with good deals which are not in fact, good deals. You’ll come across different people (agents, cab drivers, etc.) who’ll insist on giving you the best deals (maybe hotel charges, tour packages). But don’t lose your head over these things. Simply keep your calm and try to show them that you know better. Slowly you’ll learn the tricks to handle such people.
15. DON'T HESITATE TO BARGAIN
Indian markets are colorful and have some beautiful things like leather bags, clothes, artifacts, and so much more that you can buy. However, some shop keepers give a higher price to those traveling from another country.
Don’t be afraid to bargain and get a reasonable price for your purchase. Sharpen your bargaining skills and have fun with it.
Is India Safe To Travel For Women? (Most) Important Things To Know Before Traveling To India For The First Time
As I write this article, the cry of #JusticeforRGKar becomes more prominent to me. A month has passed since the rape and murder of a lady PG doctor of the Pulmonology department in the R G Kar Medical College and Hospital. Kolkata is the capital city of West Bengal, a state in the eastern part of India.
There is still a protest going on, and people from all walks of life are participating in it with a suspicion of state machinery’s involvement in the case. Further, it aches my heart, but I have to mention that Delhi experienced one of the heinous acts of rape and murder a few years back in the form of the Nirbhaya case.
People across borders are aware of these incidents today. So, the question of women’s safety while traveling to India is obvious. Further, if we look at the Booking.com travel predictions for 2024, we can see that 54% of women will likely embrace solo travel instead of a couple or group trip.
Nevertheless, let’s get back to the question here, and allow me to assure you that India is fairly safe for women travelers.
The data from the “National Commission for Women” and “National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB)” are not-so-pleasing. I don’t want to share the figures, either! However, the women-only travel groups are making it easier for every woman traveling to India for the first time or even for the 100th time.
The WOW Club, or Women on Wanderlust, and Women On Clouds Club, or WOC, are two of the most popular women-only travel groups in India. So, as Hannah goes for a girl trip with her mother in “Girls,” get ready for traveling to India for the first time!
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The Finance Minister of India, Nirmala Sitharaman, just presented the Union Budget 2025, and the tourism and hospitality sectors of the country were all smiles! To strengthen the foundation of tourism in the country, the budget has emphasized infrastructural development.
Further, the budget has been a great push for the PPP or Public-Private Partnership model. This is a great move to facilitate the development of heritage sites, eco-tourism hubs, and facilities like ropeways. These developments will make tourist destinations more accessible.
So, with tourism identified as a major engine for the economic growth of the country, the tourist destinations in India are ready to experience more footfall in the upcoming seasons.
Do you also feel inspired by this tourism drive in the country? Do you have plans for a family trip anytime soon?
Here are the best family holiday destinations in India you can explore.
Best Family Holiday Destinations In India | Which One Is Your Favorite?
From idyllic hill stations to azure blue waters, the family holiday destinations in India are diverse.
Here are our favorite vacation spots.
1. Jaipur, Rajasthan | The Pink City Of India
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Airport: Jaipur International Airport
Railway Station: Jaipur Junction
One of the best family holiday destinations in India, Jaipur stands out with its architectural surprises.
Jaipur is also known as the ‘Pink City” because most of its buildings are painted pink. Here, pink is known as the color of hospitality.
Moreover, while traveling to Jaipur, your Online hotels booking experience can be as hassle-free as possible with ixigo.
Popular Tourist Attractions In JaipurCity PalaceHawa MahalAmber FortGalta JiJal MahalJantar MantarAlbert Hall MuseumBirla MandirNahargarh Fort
Further, the capital of Rajasthan is the first planned city in India. Planned by Vidyadhar Bhattacharya, this city fuses ancient history with the amenities of a modern city. So, it is no wonder that Jaipur, along with Agra and Delhi, constitutes the golden triangle in India.
Moreover, the history of the city goes back to 1727 when Jai Singh II, the Raja of Amber, shifted his capital from Amber to Jaipur. Then, Vidyadhar Bhattacharya planned it according to Vastu Shastra.
2. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Best Time to Visit: March to June
Airport: Shimla Airport
Railway Station: Shimla Railway Station
Decreasing snowfall remains a concern in Shimla. Still known as the “Queen of the Hills,” Shimla remains one of the best family holiday destinations in India. Further, Shimla is gaining more importance with Tattapani, a nearby serene destination that is becoming popular among tourists.
Moreover, only 55 Km away from Shimla, Tattapani has Kol Dam reservoir. So, it is a hotspot for speed boating, jet skiing, banana rides, and more water activities. Further, it is termed as “Mini Goa” of Himachal Pradesh.
Places to Visit in ShimlaShimla Reserve Forest AreaChail SanctuaryDaranghati SanctuaryMall RoadKufriChrist ChurchJohnnie’s Wax MuseumGreen ValleyThe RidgeKali Bari TempleIndian Institute of Advanced StudyHimachal State Museum
Nonetheless, Shimla was the summer capital of the British Empire in India in the 19th century. So, even today, you will find here grand architecture reflecting the signature British style.
Moreover, this Himalayan hill station has beautiful fir, cedar, Himalayan Oak, and rhododendron trees. Also, the Kalka-Shimla Railway, with 102 tunnels, is another attraction here and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
3. Nainital, Uttarakhand
Best Time to Visit: March to June
Airport: Pantnagar Airport
Railway Station: Kathgodam
Tal means lake, and Nainital, located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, is a beautiful tourist place with seven lakes.
Seven Lakes of NainitalSat Tal BhimTalSariya TalKhurpaTal NaukuchiaTal Kamal TalGarud Tal
Further, major attractions in this North Indian Himalayan paradise include Nainital Zoo, Naini Peak, Cave Garden, Hanuman Garhi, and Jama Masjid Mosque.
However, the latest attraction at this place is the Eco Cave garden where children and adults both can have a glimpse of the Himalayan wildlife.
Moreover, people willing to wander can also visit Tiffin top, situated just 4 km from the Nainital town to have a 360-degree view of the whole city.
4. Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Airport: Coimbatore International Airport
Railway Station: Udagamandalam Railway Station
Best Time to Visit: March to June
At a distance of 89 km from Coimbatore, Ooty is a paradise for peace lovers and nature admirers alike.
Further, one of the best family holiday destinations in India, it is surrounded by the beautiful Nilgiri mountains. You will also find eucalyptus, pine trees, coffee, and tea plantations in abundance here.
Places to Visit In OotyAvalanche LakeOoty LakeDeer ParkKalhatty WaterfallsMudumalai National ParkNeedle View HillpointOoty Rose GardenOoty Toy TrainPykara Waterfalls
Moreover, when traveling with family, you can take the toy train from Mettupalayam to Ooty, boat at Ooty Lake, and camp at Avalanche Lake.
5. Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep), Andaman
Airport: Veer Savarkar International Airport, Port Blair
Best Time to Visit: October to May
If you and your family love adventure, there is no better place in India than the Andaman Islands and Havelock Island is the most popular of them. You can easily reach Havelock Island from Port Blair by taking a ferry from the Phoenix Bay Jetty.
Places to Visit in Havelock Island, AndamanCoral ReefsElephant BeachRadhanagar BeachLaxmanpur BeachVijaynagar BeachKalapathar Beach
With an area of 113 Square kilometers and 39 Km northeast from Port Blair, Havelock Island is ideal for a leisurely sea walk, scuba diving, snorkeling and Elephant training. Further, Havelock has many registered scuba dive centers for all marine fun with the best safety measures.
Important Phone Numbers for a Visit to The Havelock IslandDirectorate of Tourism, Andaman and Nicobar Administration: 03192-232694/232747 (F)The Chief Wildlife Warden: 03192-233270Deputy Conservator of Forests: 03192-232816
6. Gangtok, Sikkim
Airport: Bagdogra Airport
Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri
Best Time to Visit: March to May and October to December
Gangtok is an ideal example of a city that blends its past with its present. The Buddhist culture and diversity make this hill city one of the best holiday destinations in India. Gangtok is also a popular destination for the mesmerizing views of Mount Kanchenjunga.
Places to Visit near Gangtok Rumtek MonasteryTinkitamRayongDo DrulChortenTsomgo Lake, Ganesh Tok Ban Jhakri Falls
You can also experience the local culture at the much-hyped MG Road to get the most out of your shopping experience. Moreover, for online hotel booking, you can download the ixigo app and get the best deals right away!
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