Delhi, the capital of India, never takes a break. With amazing job and lifestyle options, Delhi lures everyone with its fascinating opportunities. Living in Delhi does transform your dreams into reality, but what to do when you want to take a break from the endless rat-race? If you have pondered hard over this question, then here is your solution.
Whether you want to go out with your family on a fun-filled holiday or want to enjoy an adventurous trip with your friends; whether you feel like spending some romantic time with your lover or just want to go on solo-travelling to introspect life, there is no better option than the hilly hamlets that are just a road trip away from the maddening Delhi crowd.
You will be amazed to know that there are as many as 40 hill stations in the two northern states that gorgeously boast their picture-book natural setting. Read on to find out.
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For a person living in Delhi, Manali is like the perfect weekend getaway destination to spend some time away from the rush of the city. Located around 550 km from Delhi, Manali has the charm to calm the whims of every traveller. From the snow-capped mountains and sports activities in Rohtang Pass and Gulaba to the sanctity that prevails in Manikaran and Hidimba temple, Manali can satisfy the desires of every tourist. Dont wait any more, pack your bags and get going for a fun-filled trip to Manali.
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Abuzz with happy vacationers all year round, Shimla is one of the most popular hilly resorts for the people of Delhi. This Himachal capital, with its Colonial charm and natural beauty, can satisfy the wanderlust of any traveller. Around 350 km from the National Capital, Shimla is visited by Delhiites to escape the unpleasant weather conditions of the city and enjoy the cool and chilling climate that this hill station offers. The Ridge, mall Road, Jakhu Hill etc are some sightseeing places that mustnt be missed while you plan your trip here.
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Nestled in the snowy hills of the Kangra District, Dharamshala is a small hilly hamlet that is flanked by dense coniferous forest on all sides. The earthy beauty and quietude that pervades here makes it a wonderful location for family as well as friends trip. McLeod Ganj, the upper segment of Dharamshala, was the holy abode of Dalai Lama and should be visited to attain peace of mind and soul. It is the perfect place for the fast-paced Delhiites to calm their nerves and find spiritual bliss. Around 490 km from Delhi, Dharamshala, with its serene natural setting and breathtaking views, should be your next vacation spot.
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A picture-perfect setting with sparkling Yamuna and Ganga rivers flanked by lush green Himalayan hills makes Dehradun a real treat to the eye. A 250 km uphill drive from Delhi and you will land at this amazing city which will bewitch you with its natural charm. For adventure seekers, this place is a host of many thrilling activities like trekking, golfing, hot air ballooning, camping and cycling. This city is also lined with a number of shopping markets that would be a delight for all the shopaholics. While in Dehradun, dont forget to visit Forest Research Institute, Robbers cave, Tiger Falls, Lacchiwalla, Tibetan Monastery and Tapkeshwar temple.
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Mussoorie, elevated at a height of 2,005 mts above the sea level, is situated at a distance of 262 km from Delhi. This hilly town offers the most spectacular view of the Doon Valley. With an aura of tranquility that pervades through this town, Mussoorie is the perfect escape for those looking for some time away from the maddening crowd of the capital. Whether you are planning a road trip with friends or a family vacation, this place will serve all your desires. While here, dont miss out on the Kempty Falls, Landour, Happy Valley and The Mall Road.
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Located around 299 km from Delhi, Nainital is one of the most popular hill station for weekend getaways and road trips for Delhiites. With its mystical mountains, pristine lakes and lush greenery, it is an amazing natural escape from the crowded city. Naini Lake, Kilbury Bird Sanctuary, Eco cave are the perfect setting for any nature lover and Snow-view point and Tiffin Top offer an enchanting view the valley below. The religious ambience created by the Mukteshwar Temple and the Nanda Devi Temple helps to serve your devoutness.
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The ambience of Lansdowne, unpolluted and unharmed by the atrocity of human greed, will be an idyllic escape from the humdrum of the city life. Around 270 km from Delhi, it is a must-visit tourist destination in the magical state of Uttarakhand. Sightseeing spots like Bhulla Lake, Tarkeshwar Temple, Hawaghar, Bhim Pakora and Tip n Top add to the alluring charm of this town. Being a cantonment area, it has one of the cleanest roads and resting spots. Take a break from your fast city life and visit Lansdowne to experience sheer bliss.
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With pleasant climate all year round, Nahan is the best place to spend some amazing time away from the heat of the capital city. Mapped to be around 250 km from Delhi, Nahan is a not-so-explored hill station in the Himalayan state of Himachal Pradesh. Seated atop the Shiwalik Hills, this picturesque town offers amazing views of the Himalayas. Churdhar Peak, The Mall Road, Rani Tal, Pakka Tank and many religious sites like Kalisthan Temple, Jagannath Temple etc make it even more alluring.
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Situated at a distance of 265 km from Delhi, Parwanoo is a small industrial town on the borders of Haryana and Himachal Pradesh. With enticing natural views and activities like trekking, cable car riding and hiking, this town is an ideal weekend getaway destination for all the adventure buffs and nature lovers. It is covered with pine and fir trees that render a lush green shade to this town. With its pleasant weather and lush greenery, this place is apt for those city dwellers who are in search of tranquil and peaceful surrounding. Dont forget to pay your visit to the fruit orchards, Kali Mata Temple, Timber Trail and Shri Balaji Temple to make the most of your trip.
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Sattal, located around 306 km from Delhi, is a small picturesque town nestled in the Kumaon hills of Nainital. As the name suggests Sattal or Sat Tal is nothing but a cluster of seven freshwater lakes interconnected to offer a great natural setting. These lakes are flanked by thick forest of pine and oak trees. Breaking free from the regular schedule of city life and indulging in the natural setting of this town with the symphony of migratory birds echoing in the ears would be a nice plan. This beautiful place also offers activities like boating, kayaking, trekking and fishing for all the adventure seekers.
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A land of fruit-bearing trees and apple orchards with majestic hills all around it, Kanatal offers you a picture-book setting of nature at its best. Around 300 km from Delhi, this small hilly hamlet can be visited if you wish to seek refuge from the monotony of city lives. A haven for nature lovers, Kanatal boasts of scenic beauties like the Tehri Dam and Kodia Jungle. Its easy accessibility via road makes it an amazing destination for your next road trip.
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Another cantonment town in Himachal Pradesh, Kasauli is best known for its unspoiled natural beauty. Whether you want to run away from the summer heat of the capital or just want to break free from the daily routine, Kasauli, just 300 km from the city, will serve you with cool climate fused in the beautiful environs of nature. A hint of Colonial era can still be noticed in the aesthetically rich town. While the picturesque views from sunset point and Manki point will spellbind you with their beauty, Christ Church will provide spiritual bliss to the restless mind.
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Forming a part of the Lake District Nainital, Bhimtal is an idyllic lakeside destination for all those in search of some quiet time. Contrary to the tourist-magnet Nainital, Bhimtal is quite unexplored and less crowded. Courtesy of these factors, Bhimtal is the perfect destination for honeymooners as well as those who want to enjoy the unspoiled beauty of nature away from the noises of metropolis. Around 300 km from Delhi, Bhimtal is a must-visit place for nature lovers and those seeking some me-time.
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Naukuchiatal, literally meaning lake of nine corners, is a small hilly town in the Nainital District of Uttarakhand. A six hours drive from Delhi (292 km approx.) will land you in this picturesque town. Break free from the normal routines of city lives and rush to Naukuchiatal to experience the beauty of nature. A visit to this town and you will see a nine-cornered lake that is encircled with lush-green hills giving it a breathtaking look. You can also enjoy activities like paragliding, angling, fishing, rowing, paddling, yachting or bird watching.
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Placed in the Almora District of Uttarakhand is a small cantonment town called Ranikhet. Literally translated as Queens Meadow, Ranikhet is one of the most scenic hill stations in Uttarakhand. It is around 360 km from Delhi and easily accessible via road. If you are looking for a town that is rich in flora as well as fauna, then Ranikhet is just a road trip away. Cool breeze, splendid views of the Himalayas, refreshing greenery, all this adds to the charm of Ranikhet. Chaubatia Gardens, Manila, Jhula Devi temple and Majkhali must be on your travel list when you plan to visit this town.
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All the cricket fans out there must be aware of the highest cricket stadium of the country. It is nowhere other than Chail. If you wish to spend your holidays in a luxurious way amidst pine and deodar tree, then Chail Palace is the right place for you. It is seated atop three hills and surrounded by dense forest, which gives every traveller the feel of being in the lap of nature. At a distance of about 380 km from Delhi, Chail is the best weekend getaway to enjoy some time away from the noisy city.
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Known for its religious importance, Mukteshwar is a small town in the Nainital District of Uttarakhand. Around 333 km from Delhi, this hilly town attracts devotees from the capital as well as other parts of the country. The main attraction here is the 350 years old Lord Shiva Temple. Other than that, one can also enjoy the enchanting views of the Himalayas that this hill station offers. A trip to Mukteshwar is incomplete without visiting the Mukteshwar Temple, Chauli ki Jali and Dhanachuli.
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Perched at 1,600 mt above the sea level, Almora is an alluring town surrounded by mystical hills and lush greenery. It boasts of pleasant climate all year round offering an escape to Delhiites from the scorching summer heat. Almora, being 360 km away from Delhi, is an amazing hill station for those I search of nature fused with rich culture. Famous as the Cultural capital of Kumaon, Almora is popular for the Nanda Devi Temple. Deer Park, Bright End Corner and Simtola must not be forgotten when you take a trip here.
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If you plan to try some offbeat location, then Kufri should be your next getaway destination. The Himalayan Wildlife Zoo that houses rare antelopes, felines and the Himalayan Monal is a popular tourist destination here. At a distance of about 375 km from Delhi, it is easily accessible via road and airways. Winter is coming, and if you love snow sports then Kufri should be your destination for winter vacation. It also hosts the annual snow statue competition in the month of January, so pack your woolens and get ready to have some fun in the snow.
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If you are an adventure seeker and in search for some unmarked hilly terrains to leave your prints, then Kausani should be your next go-to destination. With many unexplored treks and terrains, this town in Uttarakhand is the perfect place for adventure seekers. This hilltop offers a stunning 365-degree view of the majestic Himalayan range that encircles it. Around 419 km from the capital city, it serves as the best host for fun-filled family trips as well as friends excursion. You must visit Gandhi Ashram, Girihas Tea Estate, Bajinath Temple Rudrahari falls and Pinnath to make the best out of this trip.
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Famous for the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, this small and untouched region in Kumaon, Uttarakhand is the best place for all the nature enthusiasts. Elevated at a height of 2,420 mt above the sea level, Binsar offers breathtaking views of the majestic Himalayan range as well as other smaller peaks like Nanda Devi, Kedarnath, Chaukhamba etc from the Binsar Zero Point. Binsar is around 400 km from the countrys capital, which makes it a preferred destination for spending some time away from the crowd of the city.
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Located on the banks of Beas River, Mandi is a popular weekend getaway destination for the people of Delhi. It is around 445 km away from the capital, but the scenic beauty of this town is worth the long travel. It is at the tri-junction of Shimla, Kullu and Dharamshala thus making it easily accessible. Apart from the picturesque views and cool climate, Mandi is also called the Varanasi of Hills because of the 81 temples that it houses. The Sunken Garden, Rewalsar Lake and Raj Mahal Palace are other sightseeing spots here.
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Around 440 km away from the crowded capital city, is a small serene retreat in Himachal Pradesh called Thanedar. The natural setting of this hilly hamlet comprising of green slopes dotted with apple, plum and apricot orchards will tempt you to pluck them right from the trees to have a juicy bite. The panoramic view of Himalayas offered by this hamlet will bewitch you and nature walks and treks would awaken your senses.
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Uttarkashi, a town located in the Uttarkashi District of Uttarakhand is the most popular place of tourist attraction in this district. It is popular as Devbhumi, meaning 'Land of Gods'. The religious importance that has been imparted on this place makes it a very pious tourist destination for devotees from around the country. Apart from that, this town, being just 258 km from Delhi, is often flocked by urban dwellers who seek solace from the fast-paced city life. National Institute of Mountaineering, Dodital, Maneri dam and Bhali dam are other attractions apart from the pilgrims shrines.
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With a rich Vedic history and housing many sacred Hindu shrines, Kangra is an interesting destination to serve the desires of various travellers. Apart from the religious importance, it also boasts of its picturesque natural setting that comprises of valleys surrounded by the Dhauladhar Range. Situated at a distance of around 471 km from Delhi, Kangra is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Himachal Pradesh. The Masroor Rock-cut Temple, Kangra Fort, Gopalpur National Park and Maharaja Sansar Chandra Museum will keep you glued to this town and the ancient temples will serve your religious beliefs.
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With the onset of winters, Auli, a small hamlet in the Chamoli District of Uttarakhand, gets covered with snow. Traveling enthusiasts from Delhi flock this place during this time of the year to enjoy thrilling snow sports. It is 500 km from Delhi, but the adrenaline rush that one experiences here compensates it all. The skiing destination of India, Auli is an amazing destination all year round with its rustic setting and the mesmerizing view of Himalayas. Chattrakund, Kwani Bugyal, Auli Artificial Lake and Gorson Bugyal must not be omitted while you plan your itinerary for Auli.
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Famous as the tea capital of North India, Palampur offers amazing view of the mystical Dhauladhar range and the mesmerizing Kangra valley. The lush green tea estates stretching for vast expanses give it an amazing look. This natural setting infused with hints of colonial architecture attract many tourists from different parts of the country. Even though it is 494 km away from the capital, Delhiites love vacationing here because of its untouched natural charm.
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Dalhousie is everything that a hill station should be. It has scenic mountain ranges draped in the shade of green, pleasant climate throughout the year and a landscape that would awe your senses. If you have gotten bored of living inside the concrete walls, then pack your bags and rush to Dalhousie to drown yourselves in the beauty of this enchanting town. Located in the Chamba District of Himachal, this town is 490 km away from Delhi and a perfect retreat for urban dwellers. It also offers adventure activities like rafting, rock climbing and river crossing. Places like Chamera Lake, Daikund Peak, Sach Pass and Ganji Pahari should not be missed out.
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Housing many other hilly hamlets like Dalhousie, Pangi, Bharamour and Khajjar is a prominent tourist destination of Himachal Pradesh called Chamba. It is around 600 km away from Delhi and serves as a popular destination for family holiday trips. The charm of Chamba can be estimated from the fact that it has five wildlife sanctuaries, five lakes and innumerable temples. Offering moderate to cool climate throughout the year Chamba should be your next holiday destination. Khajjar Lake, Chamunda Devi temple, Chamera dam, Manimahesh Lake etc should be on your itinerary when you plan your trip here.
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Another hilly town in the bag of Uttarakhand, Munsiyari lies at the foothills of Himalayas in the Pithoragarh District. From mountaineers and high altitude trekkers to glacier enthusiasts and nature lovers, Munsiyari, the place with snow, is capable of satisfying the spree of every traveller. Living in the capital city, if you missing out on any of these adventure activities and wish to try them out, then Munsiyari is just 558 km away. Pack your bags and leave for this town to enjoy enchanting attractions like Birthi Falls, Balanti Potato Falls, Betulidhar, Maheshwari Kund and Panchachuli Peaks.
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At a distance of 305 km from Delhi, Pangot is the perfect weekend getaway for those who want to divulge in the beauty of nature and do nothing but relaxing, nature-walking and bird watching. This area has a record number of 580 bird species that offer treat to the eyes as well as the ears. You can also have the unique experience of residing in Nest Cottages that offer rustic charms blended with modern amenities.
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Champawat, with its rich history, natural setting and religious importance has been a favored tourist destination for many. Located around 450 km from Delhi, this historically rich destination is blessed with a pleasant weather throughout the year. It offers amazing trekking trails if you want to indulge in adventure activity. Baleshwar Temple, Nagnath Temple and Kranteshwar Mahadev are a must-visit site to pay your homage to these Hindu Gods.
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Pauri, in the Pauri Garhwal District of Uttarakhand, is a hidden gem for all the nature lovers. The panoramic view of snow-capped Himalayas surrounded by lush green deodar trees will definitely awe your senses and provide a relief to your restless mind. Distanced around 314 km from Delhi, Pauri should be your next go-to stop if you are looking for some time away from the polluted city, in the lap of nature. Enjoy an amazing sunset here and do visit Satpuli, Ransi Stadium, Kandoliya Temple, Danda Nagraja Temple and other shrines here.
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Popularly known as 'Little Kashmir', Pithoragarh is the easternmost district of the Indian state Uttarakhand. It is around 520 km from Delhi and makes for a perfect holiday destination for those looking for a hill station that has religious importance attached to it. It is the first stop for the holy Kailash Yatra and Mansarovar Yatra. The Pithoragarh Fort, Gangolihat, Kapileshwar temple and Arjuneshwar Temple must be visited when travelling to this town.
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Perched at an elevation of 1,300 mts, Chamoli is lined with lush green trees and other natural beauty. This place is the perfect blend of natural beauty, spirituality and peace. Night staying here to have the mesmerizing view Gopeshwar city is recommended by many travellers. This district is just 296 km from Delhi ad makes for an apt weekend getaway destination.
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Located in the Chamoli District of Uttarakhand, Badrinath is one of the most religious sites for Hindus. Badrinath Temple being the main attraction and one of the shrines of the pious Char Dham Yatra, this town is abuzz with devotees any time of the year. This town is around 540 km from the capital city and is the perfect way to spend your holidays with your family with a touch of spirituality. You should also visit the Panch Dhara, Tapta Kund, Neelkanth Peak and Narad Kund to experience the sanctity of this place.
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With the Bhagirathi river flowing in its heavenly pace and snow-clad Himalayas in the far vicinity, Gangotri is a truly said to be a perfect fusion of nature and spirituality. Another important pilgrim shrine from the Char Dhams, Gangotri is the place from where the holy River Ganga descended. Devotees and enthusiasts from different parts of the country come here to start the trek for Gaumukh, Tapovan, Bhojwasa and Shivling peak. Around 530 km from Delhi, a trip to Gangotri is the perfect way to release the pent-up tension of city life and experience spirituality.
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For those who love to witness the diverse flora and fauna closely, Valley of Flowers is the place for you. When the scorching heat of summer gets the better of you, then Valley of Flowers will not just provide relief from the heat but also offer you over 500 species of wild flowers blooming in full-pace. It is around 516 km from Delhi and can be visited to enjoy the beauty of nature that comprise of alluring meadows dotted with alpine flowers. The Valley of Flowers National Park also shelters the Asiatic black bear, snow leopard and musk deer.
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Yamunotri, the source of the holy River Yamuna, is situated at a distance of 286 km from the capital of the country. It is one of the four pilgrim shrines of the sacred Char Dham and attracts many devotees because of its religious importance. Located in the Uttarkashi District of Uttarakhand, Yamunotri will feed the adventure buff within you with its amazing treks that one undertakes to reach the sacred Yamunotri Temple.
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Hemkund Sahib, Literally translated as Lake of Snow, is a Gurudwara located in the Chamoli District of Uttarakhand. For all the Delhiites looking for a place away from the humdrum of city life, Hemkund would be the best place. With numerous picturesque waterfalls and stunning views of the majestic Himalayas, Hemkund would definitely provide inner peace. The pristine lake flanked by dense forest would be a perfect setting to spend some time alone. Apart from the natural beauty, this is also the highest Gurudwara for the Sikhs.
Isnt it exciting what Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh hide behind in their treasure box? Having read about these places, its time you no stop staring at the screen and plan your next getaway trip to satisfy the desires of the traveller in you. Get packing and enjoy these charming destinations now.
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