5 Budget Weekend Getaways From Delhi-NCR By Train And Road As Summer 2026 Begins
Lansdowne, Uttarakhand
Managed by the Garhwal Rifles, Lansdowne remains one of the quietest and cleanest hill stations in India, making it an ideal budget retreat. You can reach the town by driving approximately 250 km or by taking a train to Kotdwar followed by a short local taxi ride. For a serene day out, head to Bhulla Tal, a well-maintained man-made lake perfect for pedal boating amidst pine trees. History enthusiasts should visit the Darwan Singh Museum and the colonial-era St. Mary’s Church, while nature lovers can hike up to Tip-n-Top (Tiffin Top) for panoramic views of the snow-capped Garhwal Himalayas.
Kasauli, Himachal Pradesh: Kasauli is a charming cantonment town that feels frozen in time, accessible within 6 hours by road or via the Shatabdi Express to Kalka. The town is famous for its narrow winding lanes and the Gilbert Trail, a 1.5 km stone-paved path that offers spectacular birdwatching and valley views. Don’t miss Manki Point, the highest spot in town featuring a Hanuman Temple with views of the Chandigarh plains below. For a bit of local flavor, a walk through the heritage Heritage Market on Mall Road provides access to local fruit wines and the iconic Bun Samosa.
Shivpuri (Rishikesh), Uttarakhand
While Rishikesh town can get crowded, moving 16 km upstream to Shivpuri offers a more budget-friendly and adventurous riverside experience. It is easily reachable via the Yoga Nagari Rishikesh railway station or a 5-hour drive on the newly improved highway. The main draw here is White Water Rafting on the Ganges and camping under the stars at one of the many eco-friendly beach camps. For a break from the water, you can trek to the Neer Garh Waterfall or visit the nearby Vashishta Gufa, an ancient cave used by sages for meditation right on the riverbank.
Nahan, Himachal Pradesh: Nahan is an underrated gem in the Shivalik Hills that avoids the typical tourist rush, keeping accommodation costs low. A 5-hour drive from Delhi leads you to this ridge-top town where the centerpiece is Rani Tal, a royal garden with a large pond and an old temple. About 38 km from the main town lies Renuka Lake, the largest natural lake in Himachal Pradesh, where you can enjoy boating and visit the Renuka Wildlife Park. For those interested in prehistoric history, the Suketi Fossil Park nearby displays life-sized fiberglass models of extinct mammals found in the region.
Chakrata, Uttarakhand
Chakrata is a secluded high-altitude haven located about 90 km from Dehradun, perfect for those who want to completely disconnect. The most iconic attraction here is Tiger Falls, one of the highest direct-fall waterfalls in the country, reached via a short trek through lush deodar forests. You can also explore Chilmiri Neck, a flat plateau offering the best sunset views in the region, or drive to Kanasar to see some of the oldest and largest Deodar trees in Asia. For the more adventurous, the Budher Caves (Miola Caves) offer a unique limestone stalactite and stalagmite exploration experience.
