20 Popular Places to Visit near Delhi

Nainital, located in the Kumaon foothills of the Himalayas, is a stunning hill station in Uttarakhand renowned for its natural beauty and splendor. It is often referred to as the Lake District of India and ranks among the top hill stations in the country. Nainital is also a favored weekend getaway for people from Delhi. Nestled at an altitude of 1,938 meters, the town is centered around the beautiful Naini Lake, from which it derives its name. The highest point, Naina Peak or China Peak, stands at an elevation of 2,615 meters. Surrounded by mountains on three sides, Nainital is also a popular destination for honeymooners.

The picturesque allure of this pristine hill station attracts a significant number of tourists each year who come to enjoy pleasant and unforgettable vacations in its tranquil and scenic surroundings. Nainital offers a range of must-visit attractions, including Nainital Lake, Naina Devi Temple, Mall Road, Naina Peak, Snow View Point, Kainchi Dham, Raj Bhavan, High Altitude Zoo, Bhimtal, and Sattal. Naini Lake provides opportunities for boating and yachting. The best time to visit Nainital is from March to May and December to February.

Distance from New Delhi: 294 km

Mathura, Uttar Pradesh

Mathura, located on the banks of the Yamuna River in Uttar Pradesh, is an ancient city and the birthplace of Lord Krishna. It is one of the seven holy cities (Sapta Puri) revered by Hindus, alongside Ayodhya, Haridwar, Varanasi, Kanchipuram, Ujjain, and Dwarka. Mathura is widely known as Brajbhoomi, the sacred land of Lord Krishna. The Sri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple houses a prison cell called Garbha Griha, believed to be the exact birthplace of Lord Krishna. As a cultural and religious weekend getaway near Delhi, Mathura still resonates with tales of Lord Krishna’s youth.

In addition to the Sri Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple, Mathura boasts other prominent attractions such as the Dwarkadheesh Temple, Gita Mandir, Kusum Sarovar, Vishram Ghat, and Jama Masjid. The Government Museum in Mathura is a top-notch museum that attracts visitors interested in archaeology. It showcases remarkable collections of artifacts from the Gupta and Kushan periods (400 BC-1200 AD). Holi and Janmashtami are major festivals celebrated in Mathura, with Holi, in particular, attracting national and international tourists to the town. Visitors can also explore nearby Barsana, where the fascinating tradition of Lath Mar Holi is observed.

Distance from New Delhi: 159 km

Agra, Uttar Pradesh

Agra, located on the banks of the Yamuna River in Uttar Pradesh, is renowned for the majestic Taj Mahal. It is a popular tourist destination and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Agra is part of the Golden Triangle circuit, along with Delhi and Jaipur, and is easily accessible from Delhi.

The city is adorned with ancient temples, mosques, forts, mausoleums, tombs, and historical monuments. The Taj Mahal, an iconic white marble mausoleum, was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century as a tribute to his beloved wife Mumtaz Begum. In addition to the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, Akbar’s Tomb in Sikandra, Swami Bagh Samadhi, Jama Masjid, and Ram Bagh are must-visit attractions that showcase the rich history of Agra.

Distance from New Delhi: 214 km

Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand

Jim Corbett National Park, situated in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, is India’s oldest and most popular national park. It serves as a natural habitat for numerous wild animals, particularly the Bengal tigers. Nestled in the foothills of the majestic Himalayas, it is not only one of the best weekend getaways from Delhi but also ranks among the top places to visit in India. The park is divided into five different zones: Bijrani, Dhikala, Jhirna, Durgadevi, and Dhela. While Bijrani, Dhikala, and Durgadevi zones are closed from 15th June to October, Jhirna and Dhela remain open throughout the year. Jim Corbett National Park is considered one of the finest wildlife sanctuaries in Uttarakhand and is a must-visit destination in Nainital.

This well-managed and protected area attracts thousands of Indian and foreign visitors annually. It is home to approximately 50 species of trees, 580 bird species, and 25 reptile species. The park boasts a diverse range of wildlife, including tigers, elephants, chital, sambar deer, nilgai, gharial, king cobra, muntjac, wild boar, hedgehog, common musk shrew, flying fox, and Indian pangolin. Popular activities at the park include Bijrani Jeep Safari, Jhirna Jeep Safari, and Bijrani Elephant Safari. The scenic and enchanting vistas of the park captivate the attention of 

tourists and one of the best  places to visit near Delhi  provide an unforgettable experience.

Distance from New Delhi: 261 km

Jaipur, Rajasthan

Jaipur, known as the Pink City, is the capital of Rajasthan, India. It is an integral part of the Golden Triangle Tour, along with Delhi and Agra. Jaipur is a popular tourist destination and serves as a gateway to other captivating places in Rajasthan such as Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, and Udaipur.

Renowned for its rich heritage and culture, Jaipur attracts visitors from around the world. Some of the prominent places to visit in Jaipur as part of Jaipur tour packages include the magnificent Amber Fort, the stunning Sheesh Mahal, the ornate Ganesh Pol, the iconic Hawa Mahal, the beautiful Jal Mahal, the historic Nahargarh Fort, and the grand City Palace. Nearby attractions such as Bairath, Karauli, Ranthambore National Park, and Bagru add to the charm of the region. Jaipur is also famous for its exquisite jewelry, fabrics, traditional footwear known as mojari, and sprawling gardens.

Distance from New Delhi: 268 km

Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

Rishikesh, located at the foothills of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand, is a holy city situated on the banks of the River Ganges. It is regarded as one of the top pilgrimage places in India and ranks among the best tourist destinations in Uttarakhand. Known as the adventure capital of India, Rishikesh serves as the gateway to the upper Garhwal region and is the starting point for the revered Char Dham Yatra encompassing Gangotri, Yamunotri, Badrinath, and Kedarnath.

Rishikesh attracts a large number of tourists and pilgrims from all corners of the country who come to offer prayers at this sacred site. The city is adorned with numerous renowned ashrams and temples. Triveni Ghat, Parmarth Niketan, Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Kailash Niketan Temple, and Bharat Mandir are important pilgrimage sites in Rishikesh. Furthermore, Rishikesh has gained worldwide recognition as the Yoga Capital of the World. Adventure enthusiasts also flock to Rishikesh for activities like mountain biking, bungee jumping, and white water rafting. The city serves as a base for several trekking trails in Uttarakhand.

Distance From New Delhi: 233 Kms

Mussoorie, Uttarakhand

Mussoorie is a hill station located in the Dehradun district of Uttarakhand state. It is considered one of the finest hill stations in Uttarakhand, offering breathtaking views and natural beauty. Perched atop a horseshoe crest in the Garhwal mountains, Mussoorie boasts an average altitude of 1,880 meters. From its vantage point, Mussoorie provides stunning vistas of the enchanting Doon Valley and the majestic Himalayas. The highest peak in the region, Lal Tibba in Landour, stands at an elevation of over 2,275 meters. Mussoorie is often referred to as the gateway to Yamunotri and Gangotri. It is a highly popular summer retreat in Uttarakhand and an excellent hill station near Delhi.

Kempty Falls, Camel’s Back Rock, Mall Road, Cloud’s End, and Bhatta Falls are some of the must-visit places to include in Mussoorie travel packages. The town also offers opportunities for adventure and shopping. Tourists can indulge in activities such as horse riding or take a leisurely stroll along Camel’s Back Road. A rope-way ride to the top of Gun Hills is also a popular attraction. For adventure enthusiasts, Snow Adventure Zone offers thrilling activities like Sky Ride, Valley Crossing, Zip Swing, Paragliding, Night Camping, and Safari.

Distance from New Delhi: 278 km

Fatehpur Sikri, Uttar Pradesh

Fatehpur Sikri is a deserted fort city located in the Agra district of Uttar Pradesh, India. Recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1986, it stands as one of the finest heritage sites in India and a popular tourist destination near Delhi. The construction of Fatehpur Sikri was commissioned by Akbar, the renowned Mughal Emperor, in 1569 AD. The city was built in honor of the Sufi saint Sheikh Salim Chisti, who resided in a cave on the Sikri ridge. From 1571 to 1585 AD, it served as the capital of the Mughal Empire.

Fatehpur Sikri showcases an exceptional collection of Indian Mughal architecture and is remarkably well-preserved. The complex is a fusion of Indian, Persian, and Islamic architectural styles. Enclosed by a 6-kilometer-long fortified wall with towers and seven gates, the city features stunning palaces, halls, and mosques. Noteworthy structures within the complex include the Jama Masjid, Buland Darwaza, tomb of Sheikh Salim Chisti, Khas Mahal, Panch Mahal, Khwabgah, Diwan-i-Khas, Anup Talao, and Diwan-i-Am. Each of these architectural gems contributes to the grandeur and historical significance of Fatehpur Sikri.

Distance from New Delhi: 223 km

Rajaji National Park, Uttarakhand

Rajaji National Park is a Tiger Reserve located on the outskirts of the vast Dehradun Valley. It spans an area of 820.42 square kilometers, encompassing parts of the Dehradun, Haridwar, and Pauri Garhwal districts in Uttarakhand. Established in 1983, the park combines three sanctuaries: Chilla, Motichur, and Rajaji. It is named after Sri C. Rajagopalachari, a renowned freedom fighter and the last Governor-General of India, popularly known as Rajaji. This national park is among the prominent wildlife sanctuaries in Uttarakhand and one of the best wildlife destinations near Delhi.

Situated along the Shivalik ranges in the foothills of the Himalayas, Rajaji National Park is surrounded by Haridwar, Dehradun, and Chillawali. The park boasts a diverse range of fauna, with more than 23 mammal species and over 300 bird species. It is home to a significant population of elephants and also hosts tigers, leopards, Himalayan bears, sambar deer, and wild boars. Other wildlife species include the Nilgai antelope, goral, jackal, hyena, jungle cat, leopard, civets, pythons, cobras, and monitor lizards. The forest department organizes wild safaris within the park, providing visitors with an opportunity to experience the rich flora and fauna. The park is open from November 15th to June 15th each year, with the best time to visit from December to March.

Distance from New Delhi: 217 km

Haridwar, Uttarakhand

Haridwar, also known as Hardwar, is an ancient religious city situated on the banks of the River Ganges in Uttarakhand, India. It is a renowned pilgrimage site and one of the top tourist destinations to visit near Delhi. Haridwar, which translates to “Gateway to God,” holds immense significance for Hindus and is considered one of the seven holiest places in Hinduism. It is the place where the sacred Ganges River descends to the plains. Haridwar is also one of the important locations for the famous Kumbh Mela, a grand religious gathering that takes place every 12 years.

Har-ki-Pauri is a significant location in Haridwar where thousands of people take a holy dip in the waters of the Ganges. Other important historical shrines in Haridwar include the Chandi Devi Temple, Mansa Devi Temple at Bilwa Parvat, Vaishno Devi Temple, Bharat Mata Temple, Maya Devi Temple, Bhimgoda, and Shanti Kunj. Nearby attractions include Rishikesh, Sapt Sarovar, Triveni Ghat, Kanva Rishi Ashram, and Chila Wildlife Sanctuary.

Distance from New Delhi: 219 km

Lansdowne, Uttarakhand

Lansdowne is a charming hill town located in the Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand. Situated at an elevation of 1,706 meters above sea level, it is enveloped by dense oak and pine forests. Lansdowne was a favored hill resort for the British, who established a cantonment here. The town derives its name from Lord Lansdowne, the Viceroy of India from 1888 to 1894. It is considered one of the nearest hill stations to Delhi and also one of the more affordable hill stations in India.

Lansdowne offers various attractions for visitors to explore, including the Garhwal Regimental Museum, St. Mary’s Church, St. John’s Church, Durga Devi Temple, Kaleshwar Mahadev Temple, Tip-in-Top viewpoint, Bhim Pakora, Bhulla Tal Lake, Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple, and Bhairav Garhi Temple. The town is an ideal destination for trekking and nature walks, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of the surrounding landscapes. Bird watching, boating, and paddling are popular activities that can be enjoyed in Lansdowne. Additionally, the annual Shardotsav festival celebrated during the autumn season attracts a large number of tourists.

Distance from New Delhi: 247 km

Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh

Vrindavan, located in the Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh, is a sacred town associated with Lord Krishna’s playful childhood. Situated on the banks of the Yamuna River, Vrindavan is renowned for the divine Rasleelas performed by Krishna with his Gopis. It is a popular destination for celebrating Janmashtami and one of the best places to visit near Delhi. Vrindavan holds significant importance as a major pilgrimage center for Hindus and is particularly prominent for the devotees of Krishna, including the ISKCON community.

With approximately 4,000 temples, Vrindavan is a spiritual haven. Some of the popular and highly visited temples in Vrindavan include Ranganathji Temple, ISKCON Temple, Radharaman Temple, Banke Bihari Temple, Govind Dev Temple, Madan Mohan Temple, Radha Vallabh Temple, Nidhivan Temple, and the Pagal Baba Temple. Vrindavan is renowned for its vibrant celebration of Holi, attracting national and international tourists to the town. Visitors can also explore nearby Barsana, the birthplace of Krishna’s beloved consort Radha, where the unique tradition of Lath Mar Holi is observed.

Distance from New Delhi: 159 km

Dehradun, Uttarakhand

Dehradun, the capital city of Uttarakhand and the headquarters of Dehradun district, is situated at an altitude of 2,100 feet. Located in the scenic Doon Valley at the foothills of the Himalayas, Dehradun is nestled between two mighty rivers, the Ganges to the east and the Yamuna to the west. It is a well-known destination for experiencing Uttarakhand tourism and ranks among the popular hill stations near Delhi.

Dehradun is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and pleasant weather. It serves as the gateway to famous hill stations such as Mussoorie and Nainital, as well as pilgrimage spots like Haridwar and Rishikesh. The region offers various attractions, including the Tapkeshwar Temple, Santala Devi Temple, Tapovan, Rajaji National Park, Malsi Deer Park, and many others. Dehradun is also a haven for adventure enthusiasts, offering opportunities for activities like trekking, paragliding, skiing, and water sports.

Distance from New Delhi: 249 km

Alwar, Rajasthan

Alwar, situated in the state of Rajasthan, is a historic city and serves as the administrative headquarters of the Alwar district. It is a part of the National Capital Region (NCR) and ranks among the popular tourist destinations near Delhi. Alwar is located amidst the picturesque Aravalli range and holds significant historical importance. Founded in 1049 by Maharaja Alaghraj, it remained a prominent Rajput state and flourished as a center of art and culture under the patronage of Maharaja Pratap Singh. Including Alwar in Rajasthan packages is highly recommended due to its captivating attractions.

Alwar is renowned for its beautiful lakes, grand palaces, magnificent temples, and towering forts. Some of the notable attractions include Bala Quila or Alwar Fort, City Palace, Vijay Mandir Palace, Siliserh Lake and Palace, Moosi Maharani Ki Chhatri, Tripolia, Moti Doongri, Bhangarh Fort, Company Bagh, Government Museum, Tomb of Fateh Jung, Kalakand Market, Neemrana Fort, and Naldeshwar. Moreover, the Sariska Tiger Reserve, located in the Aravalli hills just a few kilometers away from Alwar, Rajasthan, offers a unique wildlife experience.

Distance from New Delhi: 158 km

Kasauli, Himachal Pradesh

Kasauli, located in the Solan district of Himachal Pradesh, is a picturesque hill station. Situated at an altitude of 1,927 meters, it was established by the British in 1842 as a Cantonment town. The name Kasauli is derived from Kausalya, a mountain stream that flows between Kasauli and Jabli. Kasauli offers a more budget-friendly option compared to popular Himachal hill stations like Shimla and Manali. It is also one of the nearest hill stations to Delhi, making it easily accessible for travelers. Including Kasauli in your Himachal holidays is highly recommended.

The town is home to the renowned Kasauli Brewery, which holds the distinction of being the highest brewery and distillery in the world. Kasauli is nestled amidst the beautiful Dhauladhar Ranges, offering natural trails for long walks and scenic hikes. Major attractions in Kasauli include Christ Church, Monkey Point, Lower and Upper Mall, Sanawar, and Sabathu Fort. The hill station provides opportunities for activities like trekking, paragliding, and camping, catering to adventurous travelers. Including Kasauli in your Himachal tour packages is a great choice. The best time to visit Kasauli is from April to June and September to November.

Distance from New Delhi: 298 km

Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Rajasthan

The Keoladeo National Park, previously known as the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, is located in Bharatpur, Rajasthan. It is a well-known destination to visit near Delhi. The park surrounds a man-made wetland that was constructed in the 18th century by Maharaja Suraj Mal of Bharatpur. Originally used as a private duck shooting reserve for the Maharajas of Bharatpur and British officials, the area was officially declared a bird sanctuary on March 13, 1976, under the name Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary. Later, on March 10, 1982, it was designated as a national park and named Keoladeo Ghana National Park. In 1985, the park was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Keoladeo National Park is renowned as one of the finest bird parks globally. Its name is derived from an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, situated at the heart of the park. Spanning an area of 29 square kilometers, the park is home to over 230 resident and migratory bird species. It is particularly famous for its diverse range of birds, including cranes, spoonbills, herons, pelicans, and the rare Siberian cranes. Each year, thousands of migratory waterfowl visit the park for breeding and other purposes. The park also offers excellent opportunities to observe mammals such as golden jackals, striped hyenas, fishing cats, jungle cats, nilgai, sambar deer, blackbuck, and wild boar. Nearby attractions in Bharatpur include the Government Museum, Bharatpur Palace, Lohagarh Fort, and Deeg Palace. It is a popular wildlife destination in Rajasthan.

Distance from New Delhi: 209 km

Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh

Bulandshahr is a town and the administrative headquarters of the Bulandshahr district in Uttar Pradesh. It is located within the Delhi National Capital Region (NCR) and is a popular destination for day trips from Delhi. The town was previously known as Barn city due to its elevated location, which led to its alternative name, the High City. Eventually, it came to be called Bulandshahr, meaning High City in Persian.

Bulandshahr has rich historical significance, as evidenced by the ancient ruins found in places like Bhatora Veerpur and Ghalibpur. These ruins provide a glimpse into the town’s past. The district is also home to several other important sites where antiquities have been discovered. Many of these artifacts are preserved in the Lucknow State Museum. Some notable places of interest in the district include Ahar, Belon, Garhmukteswar, Kuchesar, Unchagaon, and Sikandrabad.

Distance from New Delhi: 85 km

Chandigarh

Situated at the foothills of the Shivalik Ranges, Chandigarh is renowned as the first planned city in India. This magnificent city serves as the administrative capital of both Haryana and Punjab and is an ideal destination for a weekend getaway from Delhi. As a union territory, it is directly governed by the Government of India and derives its name from the Goddess Chandi. Chandigarh is a major hub for tourists traveling to the Kullu-Manali region.

Chandigarh is famous for its urban design and architecture, which was spearheaded by renowned architects like Le Corbusier, Maxwell Fry, Pierre Jeanneret, and Jane Drew. The city boasts a clean and well-organized environment, attracting a significant number of tourists throughout the year. Popular tourist attractions in Chandigarh include Sukhna Lake, Rock Garden, Pinjore Gardens, Leisure Valley, and the Capitol Complex. The Rose Garden, spanning over 30 acres of land, is Asia’s largest rose garden, showcasing more than 1600 different species of roses.

Distance from New Delhi: 253 km

Bhangarh, Rajasthan

Bhangarh is a medieval fort located in the town of Bhangarh in the Alwar district of Rajasthan. Constructed in 1613 by Madho Singh, the son of Mughal General Man Singh of Amber, this fort holds a significant place in history. It is also renowned as one of the most haunted places in India and a popular historical site near Delhi. Due to the reported ghostly experiences and strange happenings within the fort premises, villages have been established at a distance from the fort. The Archaeological Survey of India has even placed a board at the fort gate prohibiting entry during the hours after sunset and before sunrise.

The Bhangarh Fort, now in ruins, is enclosed by a dilapidated wall and features four gates known as Lahori Gate, Ajmeri Gate, Phulbari Gate, and Delhi Gate. Inside the fort, you will find the Dancer’s Haveli and Jauhari Bazar. The fort is surrounded by natural springs, waterfalls, gardens, havelis, banyan trees, and temples dedicated to Lord Someshwar, Gopinath, Mangala Devi, and Keshava Rai. Additionally, there is a secluded chhatri (cenotaph) situated on a hilltop that offers a panoramic view of the town and fort of Bhangarh.

Distance from New Delhi: 247 km

Hansi, Haryana