Exploring India’s fascinating cultural and historical sites is a great way to spend a weekend or vacation. Delhi, the capital of India, boils with activity – from sightseeing and shopping, to experiencing the bustling energy of its markets. If you’re look for a break from city life, then Delhi is surrounded by some stunning road trip destinations that are just beckoning to be explored. Whether it’s a long drive to Shimla in the foothills of the Himalayas or half-day trips around Delhi, some outstanding destinations can be easily achieved on memorable road excursions.
Planning your journey to these spots is easy with these suggestions on where you can go and what you can do. From Gurgaon’s Cyber Hub and Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary all the way up to Jim Corbett National Park near Nainital, here are some of the best trips to take from Delhi for an unforgettable holiday experience. So, relax get your wheels rolling and have fun exploring!
Popular Destinations
If you are looking to take a short road trip from Delhi, there are a variety of popular destinations that you can visit. From the Himalayas to nearby temples, there are many interesting places to explore. This guide will provide an overview of some of the popular destinations for a road trip from Delhi, including their attractions and amenities.
Neemrana
Neemrana is a charming historical town located in the Alwar district of Rajasthan, India. Surrounded by mountains, rivers, temples, and forts, Neemrana offers visitors a unique combination of traditional Indian culture and modern luxuries. Home to the world-famous Neemrana Fort Palace Hotel, a centuries-old palace converted into a hotel. This small-town charms tourists with its many attractions and amenities. Neemrana can be one of the best trips to take from Delhi.
Whether you are looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life or want to immerse yourself in rich history and culture, Neemrana has something to offer everyone. Popular activities here include exploring UNESCO Heritage sites like the step-wells of Abhaneri, visiting ancient temples dedicated to local deities like Bhangarh Fort temple, strolling through majestic animal reserves such as Sariska Tiger Reserve or even taking hot air balloon rides over Neemrana. People who come here often also prefer to experience royal treatments at spas & wellness centers located at important hotels & resorts in Neemrana such as The Hill fort Kesroli or The Monarch Naldehra Resort & Spa.
With its central location between Delhi and Jaipur, there are plenty of transport options available for traveling to this fascinating city such as by train, car or even helicopter. For those wanting a more convenient option, several airlines provide direct flights from multiple cities all around the country bringing their passengers directly into the heart of this vibrant town. When you visit this magical heritage location, you can get lost in priceless memories which will stay with you forever!
Bharatpur
Bharatpur, also known as the Eastern Gateway to Rajasthan, sits on the edge of Keoladeo Ghana National Park and is well-known for its wildlife attractions and vibrant culture. The town from which Bharatpur gets its name originates from a legend about Lord Vishnu’s incarnation, Lord Rama. According to the legend, Raja Bharat (whose ancestors have lived in this area for around 600 years) found eight pieces of Lord Krishna’s broken bow on the banks of Banganga river and was so inspired by this divine occurrence that he named his kingdom after Lord Rama.
Bharatpur is steeped in history, with a number of ancient monuments dating back to the 12th century. These include Lohagarh Fort (Iron Fort), Fatehpur Sikri and Deeg Fort located near KelaDevi Temple. There are also temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu in different parts of the city such as Digamber Jain Mandir, Parshuram Baba temple and Alwar Mandir Bhagwatji.
Besides these ancient attractions there are wonderful bird sanctuaries to explore in Bharatpur, including Keoladeo bird park which attracts tourists from all over the world looking for a chance to spot some rare species of birds such as rose-ringed parakeets and cranes.
Apart from being famous for its historical monuments, Bharatpur is known for its vibrant culture which comprises traditional music and dance performances during special occasions like Holi and Diwali festivities. It is also home to some exceptional arts and crafts, with handmade souvenirs like paintings on fabric and leather articles being locally sold at various markets around town. For those interested in outdoor activities there are plenty of options such as boating on Chambal River or visiting Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary located close by where you can spot various species of tigers!
Alwar
Alwar is a beautiful city in the state of Rajasthan, India. Located on the eastern border of Rajasthan, it experiences hot and humid summers, with temperatures reaching as high as 45°C. Alwar also experiences a cold and dry winter season with temperatures sometimes dropping to 4°C.
This city is dotted with several fascinating monuments, forts and palaces which were built during different dynasties that ruled over this region. The most popular monuments are Neemrana Fortress, Bhangarh Fort, City Palace (City Palace Alwar), Sariska Tiger Reserve (Sariska National Park), Bala Quila (Alwar Fort) and Purjan Vihar (Siliserh Lake). Some other popular tourist attractions include Kesroli Hill Fort and Pandupol Hanuman Temple. There is also a great selection of parks in Alwar like Foy Sagar Lake Bird Sanctuary, Mangleshwar temple Wildlife Park etc making it popular among travelers looking for an offbeat holiday spot in India.
It is also renowned for its tasty cuisine which consists mostly of vegetarian dishes like Pyaaz Kachori & Kadhi Pakora which is offered at various restaurants in Alwar. The local sweets like Ghevar are specialties that should be sampled at least once during your visit here.
Agra
Agra, situated in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh in India, is one of the most popular destinations for tourists. It is home to the famous Taj Mahal and many other monuments built by different rulers. The city is an important cultural center in India, renowned for its music and art.
Agra is known for its many Mughal-era monuments, most notably the Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the world. Built utilizing a combination of Islamic and Persian architectural styles on the banks of Yamuna River, it was commissioned by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan as a tribute to his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal.
Other famous attractions include Agra Fort, which used to be the imperial residence of Mughals until 1638; Jama Masjid – a prominent mosque build during Shah Jahan’s reign; Sikandra – mausoleum dedicated to Akbar; and Akbar’s Tomb – resting place of King Akbar famously known as ‘Great’.
In addition to its incredible historical sights, Agra also houses some excellent hotels and restaurants serving global cuisines. Revered Shopping districts host some traditional stalls selling handicrafts like marble carving work, leather goods and jewellery making it a perfect spot for souvenirs hunters. It also has markets selling exquisite carpets and rugs which have become popular across Europe over time! Make sure you enjoy your time here over some delicious street food or a lavish dinner to end your day on a high note!
Mathura
Mathura is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. Located in the Northern state of Uttar Pradesh, it is known for its spiritual and religious significance. It is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna and thus attracts millions of pilgrims every year from across India and abroad.Mathura is home to a number of important Hindu sites such as Krishna Janma Bhoomi, Dwarkadheesh Temple, Vishram Ghat, Shri Krishna Balaram Mandir, Jugal Kishore Temple, Gokulnath Ji Ka Mandir, Baldeo Ji ka Mandir and many more.
There are also many smaller temples scattered throughout the city that pay homage to other gods and goddesses in Hinduism such as Shiva, Vishnu, Saraswati etc. The Ghats around Mathura are also popular places to visit with their beautiful views overlooking the river, Yamuna. The Ghats have been made into bathing ghats where Hindus go for ritual bathing before visiting temples or shrines nearby.
Other popular attractions include Govardhana Hill which is considered holy by Hindus and said to have been lifted by Lord Krishna himself; Vrindavan where Lord Krishna spent his childhood days; Mathura Zoo which offers a great way to observe local wildlife; Sanket Van located near Mathura which serves as a bird sanctuary for a large number of birds during the winter season; Dauji Ka Haveli which houses two temples dedicated to Dauji Maharaj and Akbar’s fort at Sikandra built in 1605 AD during his stay in Mathura.
Mathura also offers a wide variety of shopping options ranging from handicrafts made using local raw materials like terracotta toys and pottery to traditional clothes specific to Uttar Pradesh like Chikan work suits – all readily available at very affordable prices due its close proximity with Delhi-NCR region. All these make Mathura an inviting destination for pilgrims, families looking for relaxation as well as admiration of nature’s beauty along with history buffs quenching their thirst knowledge about this part of India’s history that dates back millennia ago!
Accommodation
Planning the right accommodation for your short road trip from Delhi can be the difference between an enjoyable experience and a stressful one. Whether it’s choosing a hotel, an Airbnb, or even camping, figuring out where to rest your head is an important part of the journey. In this article, we’ll take a look at the different options available for accommodation and how to choose the best one for your road trip from Delhi.
Hotels
Hotels provide accommodations for travelers and offer a wide range of amenities and services for guests. Basic amenities at most hotels include a king-size or two double beds, daily housekeeping services, Wi-Fi access, TV/cable service and air conditioning. Hotels may also offer additional amenities such as fitness centers, pools, concierge and valet parking. Some hotels may even offer specialty or boutique accommodations such as luxury suites with butlers or personal chefs on-site.
Hotels are located in different areas of a city or country such as downtown areas, beachfront locations and airport hubs. When booking your reservation, it is important to research the location of the hotel you are considering in relation to your desired destination to ensure that the distance is convenient for you. Additionally, different pricing can be found throughout the day so make sure you have information about check-in times when booking your stay.
Guest Houses
Guesthouses are a great option for visitors who want a reasonable and comfortable place to stay while exploring a new city. Found all over Delhi, guesthouses are small hotels that provide simple, yet comfortable rooms, convenient facilities and sometimes free breakfast.
Guesthouses are usually owned by small time entrepreneurs, who provide guests with more personalized and homely experience as compared to staying in large hotels. Although guesthouses offer limited services, they often provide basic amenities like air-conditioning, area lamps, television sets and study desks. A night’s stay in a guesthouse typically costs between 400-1500 INR per night. Most of them include optional services like laundry, kitchenette service for downpipe hotels only and parking facilities for guests with their own vehicles.
Apart from the amenities mentioned above, other common services may include conference halls with videoconferencing facility and currency exchange counters at the reception area. When looking for a guesthouse suitable for your needs, make sure to read reviews online or get in touch with locals who can guide you towards picking out the most suitable one.
Hostels
Hostels are an affordable and safe way to experience any destination. They are a type of accommodation where people from around the world come together to share a dormitory-style room, with locations ranging from beachside paradises to bustling cities worldwide. Hostels give adventurers the opportunity to meet like-minded people, save money, and have a unique cultural experience in a supportive atmosphere.
Hostel accommodations vary across providers, but all come with some great features that help make your stay budget-friendly yet comfortable. Guests share dormitories but are often separated by gender or have private rooms available as well.
Hostels generally include full bathrooms along with communal living and kitchen areas, plus common lounges and WiFi access — making them perfect for travelers looking for more than just a bed to sleep in. Friendly staff can provide valuable tips on local attractions and places to eat or drink, often at discounted prices for guests staying at hostels. With all these amenities included under one roof, you can get more out of the travel experience for your money!
Activities
If you are looking for a short road trip from Delhi, there are many activities you can do that won’t take up too much time. From catching a sunrise at the Taj Mahal, to visiting the Great Wall of China, there are plenty of activities that can be found in the area. Whether you are an adventure seeker or a nature enthusiast, there is something for everyone to enjoy on a short road trip from Delhi. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular activities.
Sightseeing
Sightseeing is the perfect way to explore a new area and get to know its culture and beauty. Not only does it allow travelers to learn about their destination but sightseeing also provides an opportunity for them to enjoy stunning scenery, capture stunning photos and make lasting memories.
When it comes to sightseeing, there is something for everyone—from majestic mountain ranges and golden sandy beaches to vibrant cities with awe-inspiring architecture. Whether you’re visiting rural countryside or bustling urban centers, there’s a sightseeing experience out there that will capture your heart and inspire you with each step along the way.
Exploring culturally significant landmarks or taking in views of snow-covered peaks are just two of the memorable experiences that you can indulge in while sightseeing. You can hire a guide who can offer helpful tips about the area or do self-guided sightseeing if you’d prefer more flexibility in your itinerary; either way, you’ll be able to make sure that each moment brings something special as explore each drop of beauty around you.
Shopping
Shopping can be a fun and relaxing activity for many people, as it allows them to explore different stores and find just the right item or deal. From window shopping to daily errands to luxury retail stores, there is always something new and exciting at every store. Whether you are in search of new clothing items, household goods, gifts or groceries, shopping can provide an enjoyable break from the day-to-day routine.
The modern shopping experience has a lot to offer, including online shopping opportunities. Many major retailers have websites where shoppers can browse products and order right from the comfort of their own home. Shopping online gives customers access to thousands of products that may not be available in their city or state as well as special sales and discounts that they might not have access to at local stores. Additionally, many online stores offer price matching services which allow customers to know they are getting the best deal on their purchase.
Another great way to shop is by finding deals or limited-edition products on discount sites such as Groupon or Amazon. With these types of websites customers are able to take advantage of exclusive offers from popular brands with just a few clicks from their computer or phone. Shopping in this manner often means enjoying larger savings than those found when purchasing in person at retail stores, giving customers even more bang for their buck!
Adventure Activities
Adventure activities provide exciting opportunities to explore nature and to discover new challenges. They are often used as team-building exercises or simply as a way to get out into the open air and enjoy outdoor activities. Some of the most popular adventure activities include rock climbing, mountain biking, canoeing, kayaking, zip lining, rappelling, and other extreme sports.
Adventure activities vary in difficulty level and safety standards, so it’s important to do some research before engaging in any particular activity. Before attempting an extreme sport or any kind of high-risk exercise, it is essential to make sure you have the proper gear and trained staff to provide instruction. This can help reduce the risk of injury or harm while still providing a thrilling experience.
Adventure activities come in many varieties; some require physical fitness while others simply demand enthusiasm for exploration. It’s important to find a type of activity that suits your own style of recreation and fits into your budget. Taking time for yourself or with friends can be the perfect way to learn something new, challenge yourself, and foster team spirit among people who are willing to push themselves out of their comfort zone!
Food
When travelling around Delhi, you’ll likely want to sample the many delicious foods the area has to offer. From street food to restaurants, you’ll find plenty of options to satisfy your hunger. In this section, we’ll discuss all the different types of food you’ll find while on your road trip from Delhi. We’ll also discuss the different cuisines you can find in the area, as well as where to find the best places to eat.
Local Cuisine
A road trip to Delhi gives you a unique chance to sample some of the local culinary delights, whether it’s cooked in traditional styles or given a modern twist. From refreshing snacks that can be taken on-the-go to hearty meals that can be savoured alone or with friends, the food scene in and around Delhi has something for everyone.
The cuisine from Delhi is characterised by its rich and complex history, differentiating changes between subtle regional cuisines as well as merging together eclectic flavours from all over India. A true trove of flavours and aromatic sensations awaits. While there are many exclusive restaurants serving upscale dishes, it’s worth making time for sampling local street food too; essential for any true traveler craving for an adventure. Popular foods that you should definitely try including Chaat, Tikki, Paneer Chilli, Shawarma rolls, kulchas or Kulcha chana masala and a lot more!
The city also serves as an ideal spot to indulge in some classic North Indian dishes’ endemic to the region such as Mughlai cuisine comprising biryanis and kebabs among various other delicious treats. Head over towards places like Karim’s (Old Delhi), Chandni Chowk (Old Delhi), Sujan Singh Park (Defence Colony) if you like trying out some traditional Punjabi recipes while having a meal with family or friends. Classic favourites like Daal Makhani and Cholle Bhature that are heavy on spices but light on your pocket will provide you with great satiation without denting your budget either. For snacks beggars many options as Dahi Vada, Samosa/Kachori, papri chaat, Pani puri etc
Street Food
Street food, as the name suggests, is food that can be consumed right away on the streets of India’s bustling cities. Each city offers its own unique flavors and street food dishes ranging from snacks to full meals, all with the convenience of portability. Street foods in Delhi are immensely popular and offer a diverse mixture of traditional Indian dishes as well as Western snacks.
Typical street food fare in New Delhi includes sandwiches, rolls, samosas, dosais and vadais (fried doughnuts), chaat (a variety of savory snacks made with potatoes), sweets like ladoos and pinnis (deep-fried rounds stuffed with coconut or dates), gol gappas or Panipuris (crispy hollow balls filled with potatoes and spices) as well as local favorites like jalebis (spiral-shaped fried dough covered in syrup).
Be sure to try a traditional Indian chai tea from one of the roadside vendors for a sweet hot beverage that is prepared from cardamom pods, black pepper corns and other spices or sample an express version for maximum flavor but none of the fuss.
For those looking for something lighter or healthier, Delhi has options such as tandoori chicken grilled over charcoal or vegetable mixes wrapped in flat breads. Vegetarian kababs available from popular outlets will satisfy even meat-lovers while paneer tikka is a great choice for those who are looking to stay away from meats. Wherever you go on your journey through India’s capital city don’t forget to sample some delicious street food along the way!
Restaurants
When choosing a place to eat while on your road trip from Delhi, there is a wide range of restaurants and other food choices available. You can experience local flavor in chain restaurants, food stalls, and even roadside vendors.At chain restaurants you can enjoy reliable dishes like pizza, burgers and more. In addition to the regular menu items there are also some delicious regional specialties such as chaat and aloo tiki.
For more traditional fare you can visit a local dhaba or restaurant which usually serves North Indian cuisine of Punjabi and Mughlai dishes. For vegetarian friends many restaurants offer non-meat options such as daal (lentil), vegetable curries, paranthas (bread stuffed with potatoes, cheese or spices), bhatura (soft fried bread) and chapatis (flat unleavened bread).
If you’re looking for an on-the-go dining experience, you may consider checking out the local food stalls or roadside vendors which offer quick selections such as murgh rolla (grilled chicken roll) and chole bhature (fried soft bread with spicy chickpeas). You may also be able to find some international eateries located near tourist attractions in larger cities like Agra, Amritsar and Jaipur.
Regardless of where your taste buds lead you on your journey through India make sure to always choose wisely by ensuring your selections are cooked properly and properly stored with safe water or beverages when needed.
Transportation
Transportation is an important part of planning a short road trip from Delhi. There are various types of transportation to consider, including private vehicles, public transportation, and carpooling. Depending on the distance of your trip, you may need to factor in the time and cost of fuel, as well as the convenience of the route. In this guide, we will discuss the different options for transportation for your road trip from Delhi.
By Road
Travelling by road from Delhi to short trips in India is a great way to explore the country’s countryside, visit small towns and villages, and spend quality time with your family and friends. The route you take will depend on the destination, but here are some tips to make your journey comfortable and hassle-free.
Checklist: Before you leave Delhi, make sure you have basic things like maps of the route, vehicle registration papers and pollution certificates up to date. Carry enough snacks, drinks and medicines for the trip. Take extra cash for fuel or any other unexpected expenses during the journey.
Planning: Based on the itinerary plan how many days it will take you to reach your destination so that you can break your journey if needed into smaller parts or even make a pit stop in between. Being realistic with your travel plans can really reduce stress while driving.
Safety: During long drives it’s important to keep an eye out for external factors like car maintenance issues (slow leak in air pressure) including weather. Plan each leg of journey according traffic conditions and expected delays due to road works etc., Check local news especially if travelling via hills or forest pockets as well as natural calamities such unannounced bad roads prone landslides etc., Cross road safety assumption might have taught us never considered may work sometimes (driving during night hours by sporty car loaded with family members).
Perks: Out of town visits at tourist spots brings actually bring out adventure free from city routine lifestyle plan a fix schedule as per description designed also creates options for casual sightseeing or photo opportunities suiting varied interests. A prepaid card for various expenses related during out of city travel (meals/rental accommodation/fuel refilling) thus keeping ready sufficient funds before leaving is always beneficial. Share mode are available under which shared vehicle curries multiple destinations thus encouraging eco-friendly commuting practices.
By Train
Taking the train is an increasingly popular form of transportation for business and leisure travelers alike as alternative to flying or driving. Rail travel offers passengers a more relaxed, comfortable journey with access to more destinations than ever before. Depending on the type of train you take, you may also be able to work or relax while still getting to your destination in record time.
There are several types of trains available depending on the route and country you’re traveling through:
- High-speed trains offer some of the fastest service available, providing shorter travel times and usually sacrificing comfort for speed. These are a popular choice for commuters who have regular journeys.
- Intercity trains run between major cities, often stopping in smaller towns along their routes. These tend to be slower but may offer more sleeping cars or amenities than their high-speed counterparts.
- Long distance passenger trains provide travelers with an overnight option that allows them to rest during their journey and arrive at their destination refreshed the next morning.
- Express or speciality services offer unique experiences like wine tastings, yoga classes or comedy shows as part of the experience of riding a train!
Regardless of which type you choose; rail travel can be an efficient way to see multiple destinations whether you’re commuting daily or taking a once-in-a-lifetime vacation!
By Air
Traveling by air is one of the quickest and most efficient methods of transportation available. Air travel has become increasingly popular over the years, due to its convenience and affordability. Planes typically fly at an altitude between about 7,000 and 10,000 meters (23,000 to 33,000 feet). Airports served by large airlines have a wide range of international destinations to choose from.
Airlines typically offer promotional discounts for flights booked in advance as well as special deals for frequent fliers. Common carriers offering air service include budget airlines offering low fares for guests who travel with just a carry-on bag and low-cost scheduled services. Business class flights that include meals and other amenities cost more than economy class tickets but can provide passengers with more comfort on longer journeys. Some airports also offer charter and private flights for those wishing to avoid the crowds or arrive at a certain destination in style.
Conclusion
Taking a road trip from Delhi can be an exciting and memorable experience, allowing you to explore some of the most beautiful places in India. From the charming hill stations of Himachal Pradesh to the heritage-rich cities of Rajasthan, there is something for everyone. Whether you are looking for an adventure-filled journey, a spiritual experience, or an offbeat getaway with friends, there are multiple routes available that can fulfil all your wishes.
No matter how long the journey may be, it is important to plan in advance and make sure all necessary precautions are taken beforehand so that your trip is safe and comfortable. Make sure you carry enough money and water as well as first-aid supplies for your own safety during the trip.
Whether it’s a short weekend getaway or a week-long vacation from Delhi, these ideas will guarantee you have an amazing time. Hopefully this guide has provided some useful insights into planning a pleasant road trip from Delhi that’ll leave you with wonderful memories for years to come!
