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Aug 29, 2023

By Goodnight Staff

15 Day-Trips in and Around Delhi

The hustle and bustle of Delhi makes it an ideal spot to explore and experience the best of India. With its vibrant culture, historical landmarks and natural wonders, the city is a great destination for a day-trip.

If you're looking for a quick getaway from Delhi, you can find plenty of interesting day-trips to take. From the Taj Mahal in Agra to the tranquil beauty of Nainital, there's something for everyone in and around Delhi.

Whether you want to experience the hustle and bustle of a big city or soak in the peace of nature, these 15 day-trips are sure to offer you the perfect escape.

1. Rishikesh

Rishikesh is known for its spirituality but it also offers a wide range of adventure activities to get you pumped up. Some of the best things to do in Rishikesh include River Rafting, Bungee Jumping, and Overnight Camping.

A day trip to this quaint Himalayan town can be an exhilarating experience, especially with your loved ones. You can spend time exploring attractions such as Triveni Ghat, Lakshman Jhula, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, and Rajaji National Park.

Another top attraction in Rishikesh is Vashistha Cave, which is popular for its meditation retreats. Its calm and serene setting will allow you to meditate and recharge.

The city is also home to a variety of yoga retreats. These centers and ashrams offer morning yoga classes to help you start your day on a positive note.

If you’re looking for a more high-spirited activity, try jumping off the highest bungee in the world at Jumpin Heights. The adventure zone also hosts other activities like Giant Swing. It’s a perfect way to de-stress and get your blood pumping.

Rishikesh is one of the most popular places to visit in India as it offers a wide range of things to do. From yoga to white water rafting to waterfall trekking, there are plenty of options for anyone looking to try something new.

The ashrams here are also very popular among tourists as they offer a range of scientifically proven therapies to boost mental health and strengthen the body, soul, and spirit. These ashrams are filled with devotees who want to take their meditation and healing practices to the next level.

Neelkanth Mahadev Temple is a famous Shiva shrine that attracts devotees from all over the world. The temple is surrounded by a dense forest and is an excellent place to seek the divine help of Lord Shiva.

2. Jaipur

Jaipur, one of the cities that makes up the famous Golden Triangle tourist circuit, is a beautiful city full of historical attractions. The palaces, forts, temples, and bazaars here are truly stunning, and they all combine to form a unique and mesmerizing experience.

The City Palace is a magnificent complex that blends the architectural influences of Indian and European architecture perfectly. Inside you can find striking courtyards, elegant pavilions, royal halls, an armory, and an art gallery.

If astronomy interests you, Jantar Mantar is an observatory that features 19 fixed astronomical instruments. These tools track stars and even predict eclipses.

Another must-visit is Moti Dungri Ganesh Ji Temple, a spiritual whirlwind that has been enchanting tourists for centuries. The lion-faced Lord Ganesha is the most popular sight here, but it is also a great place to pay homage to other Hindu deities.

If you’re looking for a great meal, head to Lassiwalla (MI Road). It’s a popular spot for lassis, a delicious combination of yogurt, fruit, nuts, and herbs.

If you’re into history, architecture, art, food, and shopping, Jaipur is one of the most culturally rich cities in India. The city has an abundance of monuments, heritage hotels, and shopping markets that invite you to explore the glorious past and savor the rich culture and traditions.

3. Agra

Located on the banks of River Yamuna in Uttar Pradesh, Agra is a must-visit city for travelers. Agra is a popular destination on any 'Golden Triangle' tour, renowned for its monument of love, the Taj Mahal. Besides this, this historic city offers a range of interesting activities for travelers looking to explore its rich heritage.

While witnessing the beauty of the majestic monument is a must, culture vultures can also indulge in sightseeing at heritage places like Agra Fort and Jahangir Mahal. Those interested in learning about the Mughal era can also head to the Taj Museum for some fascinating artifacts.

Alternatively, you can take a stroll around the beautiful Anguri Bagh or Mehtab Bagh to enjoy some leisure time. If you are a nature lover, you can visit Keetham Lake which is home to a variety of cheerful migratory birds.

You can also shop for souvenirs from Agra's many local markets. The Sadar Bazaar, Subhash Bazaar, Kinari Bazaar, and Raja-ki-Mandi are some of the most popular shopping destinations in Agra. Here you can find a host of textiles, handicrafts, leather products, and marble works at reasonable rates.

Agra has many other attractions that are worth exploring. The UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri are must-visits.

The city is also a must-see for shoppers, especially those with an eye for marble artifacts and handicrafts. Sadar Bazaar and Kinaari Bazaar are ideal spots for buying souvenirs like Pietra Dura (marble inlay) work, rugs, and leather goods.

For foodies, Agra has a lot to offer, too. Try the delicious Petha, a sweet made from pumpkin and flavored with rose water and saffron.

4. Damdama Lake

Located in the state of Haryana, Damdama Lake is an ideal day trip from Delhi. The scenic lake is surrounded by the lush green Aravali Mountains and offers visitors a relaxing environment to unwind.

Damdama Lake is an amazing place to visit if you’re looking to get away from the stress of Delhi. Set against the backdrop of rocky Aravali Hills, this lake is a popular destination for day trips and picnics.

Located just off the Gurugram-Alwar road, this picturesque lake offers a variety of attractions for visitors. It’s a wonderful spot for bird watchers as it’s home to more than 190 species, including migratory birds such as kingfishers, cranes, peacocks, and waterfowl.

It’s also an ideal place for families to enjoy a day of boating or sightseeing. Guests can rent rowboats or paddleboats to cruise around the scenic lake.

If you’re visiting with kids, they’ll love playing on the fun playground or riding a camel. The lake also features an obstacle course, so kids can test their abilities.

During your trip, be sure to check out the resorts near Damdama Lake for the best accommodations. The Gateway Resort Damdama Lake Gurgaon provides sophisticated 5-star accommodations, a fitness center, and free Wi-Fi. Guests can also make use of a swimming pool and an outdoor tennis court.

There are several attractions at Damdama Lake including hot-air balloon rides, fishing, and boating. The lake also hosts many restaurants that serve local dishes and international cuisines.

While at the lake, don’t miss trying some of Haryana’s specialty dishes like the Singri Ki Sabzi and Besan Masala Roti. These delicacies are sure to make your trip to Damdama Lake unforgettable!

5. Manesar

Located on Delhi-Jaipur Highway, Manesar is a famous weekend getaway destination from Delhi. Lying on the Aravalli hills, it offers its visitors a pleasant and relaxing experience.

It is a popular tourist destination, dotted with several attractions. Its religious sites and scenic beauty attract tourists all year round.

The city also has a variety of hotels and resorts that offer accommodation to guests. The area is well-connected with various other cities of India through daily buses and taxis.

A trip to the region will provide you with a glimpse of rural life in Haryana, as well as the majestic views of the Aravalli hills. This offbeat region is fast turning into a preferred vacation destination for those looking to experience the rugged life and the majestic Aravali hills.

It has some exciting activities for its guests like cycling, archery, Burma bridge, air gun shooting, and trekking. These activities will give you a refreshing change from the hustle-bustle of the city.

Another popular destination in Manesar is the golf course. The 18-hole course is spread over 32 acres of the beautiful Aravali range and is well-maintained.

It is a challenge for golfers and offers a lovely atmosphere to spend time in. It is an ideal place for a relaxing weekend and a great way to unwind from the city.

6. Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary

If you’re a nature lover, Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary is the perfect place to relax and soak up the serene atmosphere. It’s home to a variety of migratory birds that flock in during winter.

There are four watchtowers at the park, making it easy to spot birds from a distance. Visitors can also visit the Educational Interpretation Center to learn more about wetlands and wildlife.

This bird sanctuary is a popular weekend getaway from Delhi, Gurgaon, Faridabad, and Noida. It was established in 1971 and is recognized as a National Park by the Haryana Government.

It has a beautiful lake and is a great place for birdwatching. It’s also home to several rare and migratory species.

Located at a distance of 40 km from Dhaula Kuan in Delhi and 15 km from Gurgaon on the Gurgaon-Farukh Nagar Road, this sanctuary is known for its 250 species of birds.

The sanctuary’s flora includes Babul, Savannah grasses, Acacia, Jamun, and Banyan trees. Trees such as dhok, khair, tendu, and neem are prevalent.

Located in Haryana's Gurgaon district, Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary is an excellent place for bird-watching. It is a paradise for migratory birds, especially in winter.

It is a peaceful place where one can relax and watch the flocked birds around the lake. Surround yourself with lush greens and the sounds of various bird calls while the setting sun paints beautiful colors on the sky in front of you.

The park is home to over 250 species of birds. Among them, some are migratory, while others are residents.

In winter, migratory birds from Siberia and Europe fly into nests. They include Sarus cranes, flamingos, ruffs, northern pintails, wagtails, northern shovellers, and spot-billed pelicans.

There are also over a hundred resident birds here, such as cormorants, painted storks, and spoonbills. These can be seen at the four watch towers in the park.

7. Suraj Kund

Suraj Kund is an artificial lake in the backdrop of the Aravalli mountains. It is believed to have been built by the Tomar king Suraj Pal in the 10th century.

The lake is surrounded by rock-cut steps and is a popular picnic destination. It is also home to a Siddha Kund which is said to have healing powers.

If you are a fan of Indian handicrafts and would like to explore the thriving culture of India, then Suraj Kund is an ideal place to go. This popular picnic spot is located near Delhi in Faridabad and is renowned for its crafts fair.

The mela is a fortnight-long gathering of potters, weavers, wood carvers, and metal workers from all over India. It showcases the rich tradition of India’s handicrafts and offers an excellent opportunity to buy them at affordable prices.

During the fair, you can buy mirror-embroidered stuff, delicate lace work, folk motifs on terracotta forms, metal and cane ware, shimmering bangles, soft silk apparel, toys, and trinkets. It also has a variety of stalls selling traditional Indian snacks.

You can also take a helicopter ride over Suraj Kund. This is a great way to get a bird’s eye view of the fair and enjoy some fun activities.

If you’re looking for a weekend getaway that takes you away from the hustle and bustle of Delhi, head for Suraj Kund. It’s a popular picnic spot and a great place to go for birdwatching.

It is also the site of the popular crafts fair held every year from 1st to 15th February. Since 1987, it has attracted thousands of visitors from all over the world.

The mela is a celebration of art, culture, and crafts. It showcases various products from different regions of India and offers a variety of options for those wanting to buy handicrafts.

8. Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary

Located in the heart of Rajasthan, this national park was once the hunting preserve of Bharatpur Royals. It is now a protected wildlife reserve and was accepted as World Heritage Site in 1985.

If you’re a nature lover, the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is an unmissable attraction in Rajasthan. This 29-sq km wildlife park is home to hundreds of species, including migratory birds from Siberia and Central Asia who spend winters in the park.

Tourists visiting the park can enjoy a variety of activities to make the most of their time at Bharatpur. They can ride on a cycle rickshaw or horse carriage, and hire a guide who will take them to the best birding spots.

The park is also an ideal spot for photographers, thanks to its wide array of avian life. Several species of cranes, egrets, herons, storks, geese, ducks, and hawks are among the birds that call Bharatpur their winter homes.

Migrating birds from the north of Russia and Central Asia are also spotted at the park, including Siberian cranes, which are considered to be the largest in the world. This species reaches Bharatpur in December and stays until March when they return to their breeding grounds in Siberia.

These majestic creatures are on the verge of extinction, and conservationists are working hard to protect them.

If you are a bird lover and want to experience the wildlife then you must visit Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary. This is one of the richest bird areas in India and it is home to a variety of birds.

The park is 29 sq. km and is a blend of marshes, grasslands, and scrublands. It is a natural habitat for 370 species of birds, fish, reptiles, and flora.

There are more than 380 bird species in the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary and it is one of the best places to spot migratory birds. You can watch pelicans, cranes, ducks, geese, hawks, eagles, stints, wagtails, wheatears, and larks in the park.

The birding and safari experience in this national park is a must-see for every visitor. You can enjoy a jeep ride or rickshaw safari to witness the exotic wildlife of the park.

9. Sariska National Park

If you're a nature lover and adventure junkie, Sariska National Park is the place to go. Here, you can explore the verdant Aravalli hills, tigers, and temples!

A peaceful and rustic national park in Rajasthan, Sariska is surrounded by majestic Aravali hills. It is a famous wildlife destination and is also home to several ancient temples.

Sariska is home to tigers and is ranked among the best tiger reserves in India. It is also a great place for bird lovers.

The park houses the ruins of the medieval temples of Garh-Rajor that date back to the 10th and 11th centuries, as well as a 17th-century castle on a sharp hilltop at Kankwari, which gives a panoramic view of flying vultures and eagles.

It is home to various carnivores such as leopards, wild dogs, jungle cats, hyenas, and jackals and herbivores like Sambhar, Chital, Nilgai, Chausingha, Wild Boar, and Langur.

The park is tangled with scrub-thorn arid forests, dry deciduous forests, grasses, rocks and hilly cliffs. It's home to many carnivores including tiger, leopard, jungle cat, striped hyena, golden jackal, chital and sambhar.

The Park also houses a variety of mammals, birds, and reptiles. Some of the species found here include sambhar, chital, wild boar, nilgai, civet, four-horned antelope, gaur (Indian bison) and porcupine.

10. Vrindavan

Vrindavan is the hometown of Lord Krishna and is a place of pilgrimage for Hindus. It is the site of many temples and shrines that are dedicated to the god.

The town is known for its many beautiful gardens and monuments. One such garden is the Nidhivan.

Located in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, Vrindavan is a sacred town that has many temples dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is also famous for being the place where he lived when he was young and where a large number of devotees come to worship him every year.

It is a popular destination for Hindu pilgrims and visitors from different countries. During your visit to Vrindavan, you can witness a lot of religious activities such as bhajans and aarti ceremonies in the temples.

Vrindavan is also home to ashrams where widows have a refuge, knowing that they will be well looked after and supported. In this way, they can live their lives in a meaningful manner.

In addition, Vrindavan is famous for its scrumptious snacks and drool-worthy lassi. These are made using desi ghee and taste divine!

During the days of Janmashtami and Holi, this garden is filled with people. They touch the feet of cows to receive blessings.

There are also several monuments in Vrindavan that have interesting legends attached to them. These are a big draw not only for pilgrims but also general travelers.

The Banke Bihari Mandir and the Radha Raman Temple are two popular temples in Vrindavan. At Banke Bihari, the curtain in front of Krishna’s statue is opened and closed every few minutes.

11. Haridwar

Haridwar is one of the most important pilgrimage places in India and has a lot to offer for a spiritual trip. Thousands of people come here every year to cleanse themselves and achieve salvation.

The city is also home to a large number of ashrams where people from all over the country and the world live for peace and happiness. Some of the best ashrams in Haridwar include Jairam Ashram, Bhuma Niketan, and Pawan Dham.

Some of the attractions in Haridwar include Har ki Pauri Ghat and the Kankhal area, which is a sacred area with numerous temples close to each other. You can watch the evening Ganga Aarti from here as well, which is a beautiful experience.

Apart from spirituality, Haridwar is a great place to go for adventure activities like trekking, bird-watching, and rafting. It is also home to the Rajaji National Park, which is a pristine area that is inhabited by elephants and tigers.

You can also visit the Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar, a picturesque abode that is home to many migratory birds in winter.

Haridwar is a major Hindu pilgrimage town located where the sacred river Ganges emerges from the base of the Himalayas. Often referred to as the “Gateway to Gods”, this ancient city is also one of the four main venues of the Kumbh Mela held every twelve years.

The city is a great place to visit for its temples, ghats, and ashrams. It is also known as the abode of Yoga and Ayurvedic medicine.

During your sightseeing tour you will be visiting some of the most significant places in Haridwar such as Har Ki Pauri, Mansa Devi Temple and Chandi Devi Temple. You will also visit a few ashrams and the popular Fun Valley Water Park.

12. Fatehpur Sikri

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Fatehpur Sikri is a quaint town in western Uttar Pradesh. It is home to many Mughal structures, including the Jama Masjid (one of the largest mosques in India).

This regal city was built in honor of Sheikh Salim Chishti who prophesized the birth of Emperor Akbar's son, Jahangir. It was also the site where Akbar began his construction of a fort and palace.

Visiting this red sandstone city is an incredible experience and it is best to visit it during autumn or winter when the weather is mild. You will be able to explore the fascinating architectural wonders and hear about the stories of Emperor Akbar.

Among the most impressive buildings of the complex is the Diwan-e-Khas, a private audience hall where the emperor Akbar met his closest and religious leaders.

It is constructed of red sandstone and has a pillar in the center that is beautifully carved. It also has kiosks on all four sides of the structure.

13. Bhangarh Fort

The 17th-century ruins of Bhangarh Fort in Alwar district, Rajasthan is a must-visit place on any travel itinerary. Situated at the Sariska Tiger Reserve border, this eerie fort has been known to attract many visitors from all over the world.

Upon entering the main gate of this wrecked fort city, you will come across various temples and palaces within the ruins. Some of these include the Hanuman Temple, Gopinath Temple, Someshwar Temple, Mangla Devi Temple, and Ganesh Temple.

These magnificent buildings are made of yellow sandstone and were constructed by the great rulers. They are built on a raised platform and have amazing carvings.

In addition to these structures, you will also see a priest’s residence, bazaar, and dancer’s palace in the fort complex. These ruins will surely leave you with an image of a bygone royal era in your mind!

It is best to visit this haunted fort on a guided tour. It will allow you to understand its history of supernatural events and help you avoid the most common mistakes that tourists make while visiting such places.

A rocky path leads to the main entrance of the fort, surrounded by a huge banyan tree that is eerie and stunning at the same time.

Once inside, you’ll come across a number of temples like Someshwar Temple, Keshav Rai Temple, Mangla Devi Temple, Hanuman Temple, Gopinath Temple and Ganesh Temple.

At the extreme end of the fort’s limits is the Royal Palace which used to have seven storeys until it collapsed. The ruins are breathtakingly beautiful and speak about the architectural magnificence of the bygone era.

14. Mathura

Located in the state of Uttar Pradesh, Mathura is an ancient city that attracts pilgrims and tourists from all over the world. It is one of the seven holiest places in India and is known for being the birthplace of Lord Krishna.

This holy city is situated on the banks of the Yamuna River and is dotted with beautiful ghats, temples, and other attractions. It is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus and Vaishnavas.

The city is awash with tourists during two main festivals, Janmashtami (Lord Krishna's birthday) in August/September and Holi in February/March. The town is also a great place to indulge in shopping and enjoy local dishes such as kachori-jalebi for breakfast and chaats made with ghee.

You can also check out the Government Museum in Dampier Park which is a repository of ancient sculptures, relics, and coins. The Jama Masjid is another must-visit place to visit in Mathura and is one of the most spectacular mosques in India. It's four 40m high minarets and intricate carvings make it a must-visit attraction.

15. Morni Hills

If you are looking for a weekend getaway from Delhi, Morni Hills is the perfect place to go. It is a laid-back vacation hub that receives visitors from Delhi, Chandigarh, Haryana, and Punjab all the time.

Its cool clime, alluring natural vistas, and myriad adventure opportunities make it one of the most popular destinations in India. The Shivalik ranges of the Himalayas surround the hill station and offer amazing views.

Located in the Panchkula district of Haryana, Morni Hills is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a weekend getaway from Delhi. Its crisp air and beautiful natural vistas will leave you refreshed and rejuvenated.

The best time to visit Morni Hills is between October and March. This is when the days are fresh and sunny, but the nights are serene with faraway lights flickering softly.

Another popular destination in Morni Hills is Tikkar Taal, a tranquil lake that exudes vibes of serenity and relaxation. It is also a popular picnic spot.

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