"The World is like a book, every place tells you a new story. And if you dont travel, its like reading the same page again and again." Well quoted! Travelling serves the soul as food serves the body. After every short distance covered, one can observe a change in the lifestyle, accent, and language of people. This is because we are all so different, yet the same. True, one can see the places in pictures, but experiencing it yourself is a total bliss.Here is a list of places you must visit at least once if you live in or near Delhi.
The city of lakes, Nainital is famous for its scenic beauty, temples and exotic gardens. It is considered to be the perfect honeymoon paradise nestled in the arms of lush Kumaon Hills. The breathtaking picturesque of Nainital presents a subtle refreshing charm to the lovebirds.
Shimla is probably the most popular hill station in northern India, and is the capital of Himachal Pradesh. The most popular thing about this city is the toy train connectivity. Shimla flaunts a huge Mall road and plush list of tourist attractions. While your stay in Shimla, dont forget to pass by the Ridge. Shimla is suitable for family outings as well as honeymoons.
Neemrana in Rajasthan is known for its stunning Neemrana Fort Palace. The fort was built in 1464 AD. This was the residence of Rajput Maharaja Prithvi Raj Chauhan III during his reign. Neemrana fort is restored as a heritage hotel and now has 4 restaurants and 71 rooms, to accommodate the tourists that visit to unravel the resplendent heritage of Rajasthan.
Mussoorie is the nearest hill station from Delhi and is the most preferable getaway for a majority of Delhiites. It is famous for its colonial heritage and its religious sites. Kempti falls is something you would not like to miss if you ever visit Mussoorie.
Rishikesh is situated along the convergence of Ganga and Chandrabhaga. Rishikesh is situated on the foothills of Himalayas and is the hub of many ancient temples, popular cafes, yoga ashrams and adventure sports like rafting, cliff jumping, etc.
This is the most popular hill station amongst the youth (college students). Located 80km above Manali, Kasol can be simply described as a small village in the Parvati valley which is tinted in the best shades that nature can offer. It is known for its Israeli inhabitants, Parvati River, trekking base-camps, and Malana.
Being one of the oldest cities of India, Pushkar is famous for many things, other than being one of the five sacred dhams for Hindu devotees. The few existing devoted temples to Lord Brahma are situated in Pushkar. The city is famous for its Annual Pushkar camel fair, which is held in November. The city is known for its temples and the eminent Pushkar Lake. 'A tip for the visitors- If you visit this city you must respect local norms, avoid drinking liquor and eating non veg in the city.'
The city of Orchha is famous for its grand palaces, intricately carved temples, and striking forts situated on banks of river Betwa. The significant history of Orchha makes it more attractive to the tourists. The scenic beauty of the city serves as an eye candy to the photographers.
Gwalior is a historic city founded by King Surajesan. The city of Gwalior is decorated with beautiful monuments, palaces and temples, giving this city a majestic charm that speaks volumes for its glorious past.
If you're looking for a quiet and calm place for a vacation, Nahan is the most appropriate option. Located away from the buzz of a city, Nahan is considered to be a perfect romantic getaway. It lies in the lofty Shivalik range, overlooking lush green fields. Being an army area, Nahan keeps far the extravagant masses of tourists and flashy markets.
Lansdowne is also an Army area. Thus, it is quiet calm after 8pm. There are a few markets in the valley but the main attraction to the place is its natural charm and beauty. Located in Pauri Garhwal, at an altitude of 1,706 mt, this small town is famous for its pristine Himalayan feel, oak and pine forests, snow-covered peaks and lovely fresh air.
When we talk about Haridwar, the first thing that comes to our mind is the sight of the holy river Ganges flowing through the gorges. Hari- dwar means- the Gods Gate. Situated along the holy river of Ganga, Haridwar is famous for its Temples and Ghats where pilgrims bathe to relieve themselves of their sins.
Discovered in 1931, Valley of flowers is a World Heritage Site for its wild untamed blooms surrounded by white peaks. It is known for its meadows of endemic alpine flowers and the variety of flora. This richly diverse area is also home to some of the rare and endangered animals. It is a perfect holiday destination for a person who is fond of flora and fauna.
Kanatal is a small village in the state of Uttarakhand, India. It is around 300 km away from Delhi. Kanatal attracts less amount of tourist as compared to other hill stations. It is at a distance of 33km from Mussoorie. In case you are looking for peace and tranquility, you now know where to plan your next trip to.
Situated in the Garhwali Himalayas, Kedarnath is one of the four places of Pilgrimage (char Dham) in India. It is located at a height of 3584 mts, above the sea level and being a place of holy belief, Kedarnath attracts several pilgrims every year.
Kurukshetra is well known for being one of the centre-points of the Epic Mahabharata. Every Indian has read and heard so much about the battle field of Kurukshetra that it makes him/her so intrusive to visit the place. Kurukshetra, the field of righteousness, traces its past to time of King Kuru, who laid the foundation of a domain rooted on the principles of uprightness and benevolence.
Kinnaur is also known as the "Land of God" and is about 235 Km from Shimla. The town is known for its lush green and rocky mountain-scape, with the Rivers Satluj, Baspa and Spiti flowing through it.
Visit Kasauli not for the attractions or activities, but for the serene environment and the soothing calmness that it boasts. If you want to just find a good getaway from the hectic life of your city, Kasauli provides the ideal environment to in the embrace of the lush green hills.
Tehri Garhwal has been showered with many blessings in Indian history. At Tehri Garhwal you can devour the sight of three holy rivers (arriving in its real form from devaprayag) merging with Bhagirathi and Alaknanda. One can also see many temples around the place.
Tirthan valley is a land of overwhelming and mystic beauty. Tirthan Valley is a destination which will give you a delightful experience. The valley is located just 3Kms away from the entrance of the Great Himalayan National Park and is said to be a paradise of nature. There are plenty of options for adventure activities in the Tirthan Valley.
Bhimtal is famous for its temples in the middle of the mountains. If you want to lie down under the shade of nature, with your eyes closed and experience serenity, the ancient town of Bhimtal will serve you just the right. Bhimtal stands at a height of 1370m above the sea level. The Bhimtal Lake is the most eye-catching of all; the blue lake has an island in the middle, enhancing its beauty.
Chandigarh boasts a subtle architecture designed by the ace architect Le Corbusier. Consisting of 47 self-contained sectors, Chandigarh is India's first planned city and is known for its perfect combination of natural and urban architecture. Chandigarh has a well-structured layout of its roads and housing societies. It is considered as the ideal definition to the word 'city' by architects. The city is rich in food and culture which adds extra points to its experience.
Situated at a height 1230 mts. from the sea level; Kullu is usually paired up with Manali. It is an open valley, famous for its pine trees and the delicious flavor of its food. This town is blessed with a pleasant climate throughout the year; and has gained the status of one of the most popular tourist spots in Himachal.
Being located at a height of 7500 ft., Mukteshwar gives a pleasant view of the Himalayan ranges and the Nanda Devi peak to its visitors. Mukteshwar derives its name from Lord Shiva and completely justifies it. Being blessed with fruits orchards, forests and meadows, this small hill town is famous for adventure sports like rock climbing etc.
Chail is popular for having the Worlds highest cricket and Polo grounds. This hill town in Himachal is preferred for a quiet and calm vacation, away from the hustle and bustle of other nearby tourist spots.
This city is famous for its exemplary historical wonders and love of the King Shahjahan. Being the home to one of the 7 wonders of the world, Agra attracts a huge amount of native as well as foreign visitors. Other attractions to visit agra are the magnificent Agra fort and the stunning Fatehpur Sikri.
Uttarkashi is the most sought after pilgrimage center of the Hindus. Two out of the four (char dham) most believed holy places in India are located at Uttarkashi. The holy River of Ganga drifts through this small town of Uttarakhand. Visit Uttarkashi to breathe in purity and spirituality that flows in its air.
The holy city of Mathura is believed to be the Birth place of Lord Krishna. The city attracts a huge number of Hindu believers every year to visit its many temples. A huge festival is hosted in Mathura on Janmashtami (birthday of Lord Krishna).
Dehradun is located in the Garhwal region at the foothills of the Shivalik ranges. Apart from being a city with a pleasant climate and being Famous for adventure sports, Dehradun also attracts a great share of tourists for the many temples it possesses.
This lesser known town of Guptakashi is situated in Uttarakhand and has been a part of the epic, Mahabharata. It is considered as a holy land by Hindus. The town is beautifully decorated with ancient Hindu temples.
This is the place where Lord Krishna is believed to have grown up. This small town is filled with widow migrants from all over India in search of the Lord. Vrindavan has temples of Radha-krishna scattered all over the area. The small town of Vrindavan is so lively that it always seems to be celebrating a festival.
Bir is considered as the best spot in the World for paragliding. It hosts a World Paragliding Championship every year. You take-off from Billing and land at Bir. The overall altitude change is around 800m. The town of Bir is also an important center of spiritual studies and meditation.
Alwar is the home to the haunted Bhangarh fort, Kalakand, Bala- quila, Sariska tiger reserve. The heritage of Alwar makes it culturally rich. With just 158 kms away from Delhi, a trip to Alwar this weekend is all you need.
Bilaspur is Indias first planned hill station. This hill town near Shimla has served itself with the Gobind Sagar Lake (man-made) which is the heart of the city. This lake provides water to the Bakhra Nangal dam and is the hub for water sports and fishing.
Narkanda is a spot which you must not miss if you are an adventure freak and love skiing and trekking. Located at a height of 7000 feet, the place is surrounded with lush forest and woodlands.
Kumaon is a hill station with a variety of attractions in its area; like lakes, gardens, temples, and even a national park. The place have its roots cultured in the hills, the natural bounty is the icing on top. The flowers in the Kumaon valley change their color several times in a year. From exhibiting a soft pink hue in the early winters to giving a purplish tone in different gradients during summers, Kumaon is bliss to the eyes.
Mount Abbott is a place that has managed to accept minimal changes since the time it has been discovered. Being located at a height 6500 Ft, it gives a great view of the snow clad Himalayas.
Mashobra is a valley near Shimla (6km), Perched at an elevation of 7700 mts. Mashobra is the perfect get away after staying in the busy town of Shimla. The lush green valley has less human population and offers you beautifully built cottages for a comfortable stay.
Tattapani is a hill station with an unusual charm to it. This tourist spot in Himachal Pradesh is nothing less than a wonderland. Tattapani offers you attractions that are pleasing to eye. This beautiful place, nestled among the mountains is something you don't want to miss.
The town of Binsar is dotted with oaks, pines and rhodendrons and is also famous as a pilgrimage spot. Besides the Binsar wildlife sanctuary, you can also visit the Kesar Devi temple and the Bineshwar Mahadev temple. Kathgodam is also located very close to Binsar.
With Chamba and Mussoorie in proximity, Dhanaulti in Uttarakhand is a less explored spot, elevated at a height of about 2200 meters above sea level. With minimal human intrusion, this place will give you the much needed break from your humdrum routine of life.
Manikaran attracts the tourist for its famous Manikaran Gurudwara. The hot water sarovar at the gurudwara is said to relax the body pain of all kinds. Manikaran is located near Manali.
Devprayag is a serene beauty with a holy charm in it. This is the place where the holy rivers of Ganga and Alaknanda meet. Devprayag is considered as a sacred place by the hindu devotees.
This small hill town located near Dehradun was built by the officials of the East India Company. It also encloses a military cantonment. You can Trek up the Kharamba peak at 10, 000 ft. while you are in Chakrata. Skiing is a popular adventure sport in Chakrata. One can also explore the caves nearby.
Kalpa is a village adorned with rich flora and fauna, this small hamlet is a must visit destination. It is the main village of Kinnaur, situated in the Sutlej River Valley, a place that has a history to cherish. Kalpa is known for its many beautiful temples and monasteries; this small town is also famous for its apple orchards.
The city of Palampur was first discovered by the Britishers, traces of which can be seen in the Victorian mansions built in Palampur. It is surrounded with water streams, tea gardens, and pine & deodar trees in its vicinity, which adds onto its beauty.
This hill town of Uttarakhand is perched at the height of 6000 feet. Being home to several ancient temples, Joshimath has a spiritual vibe in its air. The place is believed to be a pilgrimage spot of the Hindus.
This quaint town is famous for the Nalagarh fort, which has now been converted into a heritage hotel that attracts tourists from all over the country. The royal touch of Mughals and Brishers can still be seen in the precincts of the fort.Nalagarh is blessed with the view of Shivaliks on one side and the Himalayas on the other.
Gaumukh is considered to be one of the holiest places of Uttarakhand. Several Hindu devotees visit the place because of its spiritual relevance. The serenity and pious mythological history of this holy land is of high appeal to the Hindus. Gaumukh is not exactly a tourist town or city, but a glacial trekking destination located within Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand.
Though the main focus of this national park is at protecting the wildlife; however, it manages to attract a huge number of tourists as it is located near the popular hill station; Nainital. The elevation of this national park ranges from 1300 ft to 4000 ft.
This small hill-village of Uttarakhand is less popular amongst the tourist. River Bhagirathi flows through this area. You can find apple orchards in this 2620 mts. high hamlet.
The holy place for Sikh and home to the famous Golden temple, Amritsar is well known for its delicious Punjabi food and traditional patiala suits. If you are looking for some Punjabi tadka in your vacation, Amritsar is the place for you.
Chamba is located 56 Kms away from Dalhousie. It is popular for its temples like Surara & Brajeshwari, and adventure sports amidst Himalayan ranges that seem never ending. If adventure sports like kayaking, trekking, rafting, camping and rope climbing give you an adrenaline rush, you need to book your tickets right away. So now when you visit Delhi next, you do not have to confine yourself to the boundaries of capital because it has so much stored in for you in its vicinity. Remember, the world is a beautiful place which is further fractioned into infinite pieces. You must travel to explore, learn, try new things, know new people, and most of all to feed your soul.