Top 12 Places To Go On Your Next Long Weekend

The long weekend of the perfect calendar to satisfy all your travel cravings is around the corner. And I am sure you can’t wait to tick off your list of top places to visit in North India. Don’t worry, we have got you covered.

Read on as we give you a hand-picked list of the best places to visit for weekend trips from Delhi:

Kasol-Tosh

Forget the sounds of Delhi – the irritating boss, the chalk flinging professor, the daily chores, the madness of honking and the incessant jam. Let it be filled by the sound of a gurgling river, the blowing wind and the pleasant cacophony of birds. Situated in Parvati Valley with the river Parvati flowing right beside the entire village, Kasol is a backpacking haven. You might think you are the only tourists until you start spotting Australian, Israeli, French nationals popping out from everywhere. Just lean back and sink in nature’s lap or sweat it out on one of the many treks and hikes.

Thins to Do in Kasol-Tosh

• Trekking: There are several trekking trails around Tosh, including the popular trek to Kheer Ganga and Yanker Pass.
• Camping: Tosh has several campsites with scenic views, where visitors can pitch a tent and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
• River Rafting: The Parvati River flows near Tosh and is a popular spot for rafting.
• Smoking Hash: Tosh is known for its hash culture and visitors can purchase and smoke hash from local shops.
• Visit Local Temples: Tosh has several ancient temples, such as the Rudra Nag Temple and Manikaran Sahib, which are worth visiting.
• Enjoy Local Cuisine: Tosh has several small cafes and restaurants that serve local Himachali cuisine, which is worth trying.
• Explore the Surrounding Villages: Visitors can take a walk to the nearby villages, such as Rasol and Chalal, and explore the local culture and lifestyle.

Chopta-Chandrashila

The Chandrashila trek is one of the most famous ones for adventure junkies. Get lost in the beauty of Chopta, a gorgeous hill stations in Uttarakhand with stunning views of Himalayas and evergreen forests of pine and oak. It is a base for various trekking destinations of Tungnath and Chandrashila and attracts domestic as well as international travellers.

Thins to Do in Chopta-Chandrashila

• Trekking: Chopta-Chandrashila is a popular trekking destination, known for its scenic beauty and challenging trails. The Chopta-Chandrashila trek is one of the most popular treks in the region.
• Wildlife Watching: Chopta is surrounded by dense forests and is a good place to spot rare species of birds and animals, such as the Himalayan Monal and the Himalayan Black Bear.
• Camping: There are several camping sites in Chopta, where visitors can pitch a tent and enjoy the scenic views.
• Visit the Tungnath Temple: The Tungnath Temple is one of the highest Shiva temples in the world and is a popular religious site in the region.
• Explore the Surrounding Villages: Visitors can take a walk to the nearby villages, such as Ukhimath and Deoriatal, and explore the local culture and lifestyle.
• Enjoy the Scenic Beauty: Chopta and Chandrashila offer stunning views of the Himalayan range and are a good place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
• Winter Sports: During the winter months, Chopta-Chandrashila is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding.

Tirthan Valley

There will be no dearth of pictures for your Instagram Feed with this one. The magical valley is located beside the Tirthan River in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh. Unspoiled by tourist flocks, it is a perfect escape to indulge in myriad activities like fishing, hiking, trekking, and camping.

Thins to Do in Tirthan Valley

• Trekking: Tirthan Valley is a popular trekking destination, with several trekking trails leading to scenic locations such as the Great Himalayan National Park and Serolsar Lake.
• Angling: Tirthan River is known for its Trout fishing, and visitors can participate in angling activities.
• Camping: There are several camping sites in Tirthan Valley, where visitors can pitch a tent and enjoy the scenic views.
• Visit the Jalori Pass: Jalori Pass is a popular tourist destination located near Tirthan Valley and is known for its scenic beauty and trekking trails.
• Enjoy the Scenic Beauty: Tirthan Valley is surrounded by dense forests and snow-capped mountains, and is a good place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
• Explore the Surrounding Villages: Visitors can take a walk to the nearby villages, such as Gushaini and Shoja, and explore the local culture and lifestyle.
• Participate in Adventure Activities: Tirthan Valley offers several adventure activities such as rafting, kayaking, and paragliding.

McleodGanj

This is considered to be the most bang for the buck for a short trip from Delhi. Mcleodganj in Kangra Valley in Himachal Pradesh is the residence of his holiness Dalai Lama and houses a large part of Tibetan community. A trek in the Dauladhar ranges will revitalize your senses while the beautiful monasteries provide the much-needed solace. The place boasts of some great cafes to hang out with your friends and spend some cherished time.

Thins to Do in McleodGanj

• Visit the Dalai Lama Temple: McleodGanj is the home of the Dalai Lama and is famous for its Tibetan Buddhist culture and spiritual significance. Visitors can visit the Dalai Lama Temple, also known as Tsuglagkhang Temple, to learn more about Tibetan Buddhism.
• Explore the Tibetan Culture: McleodGanj is home to a large Tibetan population, and visitors can explore the local culture by visiting the market, attending cultural shows, and trying local Tibetan cuisine.
• Trekking: McleodGanj is surrounded by beautiful trekking trails, leading to scenic locations such as Triund, Bhagsu Nag, and the Dhauladhar Range.
• Shop at the Local Market: McleodGanj has a bustling market, where visitors can purchase local Tibetan handicrafts, souvenirs, and textiles.
• Visit the Norbulingka Institute: The Norbulingka Institute is a cultural center located in McleodGanj, where visitors can learn about Tibetan arts and crafts, including Thangka painting and wood carving.
• Attend Spiritual Workshops and Classes: McleodGanj is known for its spiritual significance, and visitors can attend meditation and yoga classes, and workshops on Tibetan culture and spirituality.
• Enjoy the Scenic Beauty: McleodGanj is surrounded by beautiful scenery, including the Dhauladhar range, and is a good place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Bir-Billing

Soar like a bird in the endless vast Himalayan blue skies of Bir Billing In Kangra Valley in Himachal Pradesh. The place offers a stunning Para-gliding experience with some of the best pilots. The bewitching views of the valley, the jump off the cliff and the landing are sure to get your adrenaline kicking. Indulge in some pahadi Maggi and look up at the stars as you spend a night in some beautiful camping sites the place has to offer.

Thins to Do in Bir-Billing

• Paragliding: Bir-Billing is one of the most popular paragliding destinations in India and offers a scenic experience, with views of the snow-capped mountains and the surrounding valley.
• Trekking: Bir-Billing is surrounded by beautiful trekking trails, leading to scenic locations such as the Billing Valley and the Dhauladhar Range.
• Visit the Tea Gardens: Bir is famous for its tea gardens and visitors can visit the local tea plantations and learn about the tea-making process.
• Explore the Tibetan Culture: Bir is home to a large Tibetan population, and visitors can explore the local culture by visiting the market, attending cultural shows, and trying local Tibetan cuisine.
• Attend Meditation and Yoga Classes: Bir-Billing is known for its spiritual significance, and visitors can attend meditation and yoga classes to experience inner peace and relaxation.
• Enjoy the Scenic Beauty: Bir-Billing is surrounded by beautiful scenery, including the Dhauladhar range, and is a good place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
• Visit the Bir Monastery: The Bir Monastery is a popular spiritual site in Bir, known for its beautiful architecture and rich cultural heritage.
• Participate in Adventure Activities: Bir-Billing offers several adventure activities, such as camping, rock climbing, and mountain biking, for visitors looking for an adrenaline rush.

Barot

Barot has all the quirkiness and charm of a quaint little hill town. Located in Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh, Barot Valley was initially developed for a hydel project over the Uhl river. The beautiful valley with oak and deodar tree-lined forests is a trekkers’ paradise with numerous trails. Or if trekking is not on mind, indulge in some camping or fishing or just plain good old relaxation. Exchange some stories over home-cooked meals and glasses of whisky as the angeethi keeps you warm.

Thins to Do in Barot

• Trout Fishing: Barot is famous for its trout fishing and is a popular destination for anglers. Visitors can participate in fishing activities in the Uhl River.
• Trekking: Barot is surrounded by beautiful trekking trails, leading to scenic locations such as the Bada Bhangal trek, the Great Himalayan National Park, and the Pin Parvati Pass.
• Camping: Barot is a popular camping destination and offers several camping sites, surrounded by scenic views and natural beauty.
• Visit the Barot Hydroelectric Dam: The Barot Hydroelectric Dam is a popular tourist destination in Barot and offers scenic views of the Uhl River and the surrounding valley.
• Explore the Local Culture: Visitors can take a walk through the nearby villages and explore the local culture, lifestyle, and traditions of the Himachali people.
• Participate in Adventure Activities: Barot offers several adventure activities, such as rock climbing, river rafting, and kayaking, for visitors looking for an adrenaline rush.
• Enjoy the Scenic Beauty: Barot is surrounded by beautiful scenery, including the Dhauladhar range, and is a good place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Auli

Encased by coniferous and oak forests and Nanda Devi and Nar Parvat peaks, Auli is a great destination in Uttarakhand for winter sports. The first South Asian winter games were held in Auli. Also, it boasts of the world’s highest man-made lake. A long cable car links Auli to the town of Joshimath while Badrinath Dham, one of the Char Dham is about 35 km away.

Thins to Do in Auli

• Skiing: Auli is a popular ski destination in India and offers excellent skiing opportunities for visitors of all skill levels.
• Trekking: Auli is surrounded by beautiful trekking trails, leading to scenic locations such as the Gorson Bugyal, the Kuari Pass, and the Nanda Devi National Park.
• Visit the Auli Artificial Lake: The Auli Artificial Lake is a popular tourist destination in Auli, known for its scenic beauty and peaceful surroundings.
• Attend Meditation and Yoga Classes: Auli is known for its spiritual significance, and visitors can attend meditation and yoga classes to experience inner peace and relaxation.
• Enjoy the Scenic Beauty: Auli is surrounded by beautiful scenery, including the Nanda Devi range, and is a good place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
• Visit the Auli Temple: The Auli Temple is a popular spiritual site in Auli, known for its beautiful architecture and rich cultural heritage.
• Participate in Adventure Activities: Auli offers several adventure activities, such as camping, rock climbing, and mountain biking, for visitors looking for an adrenaline rush.
• Explore the Local Culture: Visitors can take a walk through the nearby villages and explore the local culture, lifestyle, and traditions of the Garhwal people.

Parashar Lake

A hidden paradise with lots of secrets, Parashar lake is situated about 50 km from Mandi, Himachal Pradesh with a temple dedicated to the Sage Prashar. Legend has it that the small island in the middle of the lake is a magical spot created by the Prashar Sage to meditate on. And, even with all the high-tech diving equipment’s, scientists have been unable to ascertain the lake’s depth.

Thins to Do in Parashar Lake

• Trekking: Parashar Lake is surrounded by beautiful trekking trails, leading to scenic locations such as the Parashar Temple, the Bada Bhangal, and the Pin Parvati Pass.
• Visit the Parashar Temple: The Parashar Temple is a popular spiritual site near the lake, known for its beautiful architecture and rich cultural heritage.
• Enjoy the Scenic Beauty: Parashar Lake is surrounded by beautiful scenery, including the Dhauladhar range, and is a good place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
• Attend Meditation and Yoga Classes: Parashar Lake is known for its spiritual significance, and visitors can attend meditation and yoga classes to experience inner peace and relaxation.
• Participate in Adventure Activities: The Parashar Lake area offers several adventure activities, such as camping, rock climbing, and fishing, for visitors looking for an adrenaline rush.
• Explore the Local Culture: Visitors can take a walk through the nearby villages and explore the local culture, lifestyle, and traditions of the Himachali people.
• Photography: Parashar Lake is a beautiful and photogenic location, offering scenic views and natural beauty that make it a popular destination for photographers.

Manali Solang

Solang Valley is a popular tourist destination located in the Kullu valley near Manali, Himachal Pradesh, India. It is known for its scenic beauty and adventure sports such as skiing, paragliding, zorbing, and horse riding. The valley offers a stunning view of the snow-capped mountains and is surrounded by dense forests, making it a popular spot for nature lovers.

Thins to Do in Manali Solang

• Adventure Activities: Manali-Solang offers several adventure activities, such as paragliding, zorbing, horse riding, and snowboarding, for visitors looking for an adrenaline rush.
• Visit the Solang Temple: The Solang Temple is a popular spiritual site in Manali-Solang, known for its beautiful architecture and rich cultural heritage.
• Trekking: Manali-Solang is surrounded by beautiful trekking trails, leading to scenic locations such as the Rohtang Pass, the Hampta Pass, and the Great Himalayan National Park.
• Enjoy the Scenic Beauty: Manali-Solang is surrounded by beautiful scenery, including the Dhauladhar range, and is a good place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
• Attend Meditation and Yoga Classes: Manali-Solang is known for its spiritual significance, and visitors can attend meditation and yoga classes to experience inner peace and relaxation.
• Explore the Local Culture: Visitors can take a walk through the nearby villages and explore the local culture, lifestyle, and traditions of the Himachali people.
• Photography: Manali-Solang is a beautiful and photogenic location, offering scenic views and natural beauty that make it a popular destination for photographers.
• Shopping: Manali-Solang is home to several markets selling traditional Himachali handicrafts, souvenirs, and clothing, making it a great place to shop for souvenirs and gifts.

Jodhpur

Head out to the royal city of Jodhpur for a dose of history, architecture, and photography. Easily accessible by air or an overnight train, the quaint blue city boasts of one of the best forts in India, Mehrangarh Fort. Jaswant Thada and Umaid Bhavan Palace are some of the most magnificent palaces to see. Take a bite of the delicious onion kachoris and shop the colors of Rajasthan here.

Thins to Do in Jodhpur

• Visit the Mehrangarh Fort: The Mehrangarh Fort is a massive fortress located in Jodhpur, and is known for its impressive architecture and rich cultural heritage.
• Explore the Umaid Bhawan Palace: The Umaid Bhawan Palace is a grand and historic palace located in Jodhpur, and is now a hotel and museum open to visitors.
• Visit the Jaswant Thada: The Jaswant Thada is a beautiful and historic cenotaph located in Jodhpur, and is known for its intricate carvings and peaceful gardens.
• Explore the Jodhpur Markets: Jodhpur is home to several vibrant and colorful markets selling traditional Rajasthani handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry, making it a great place to shop for souvenirs and gifts.
• Attend a Cultural Show: Jodhpur is known for its rich cultural heritage, and visitors can attend traditional dance and music shows to experience the local culture.
• Visit the Maharaja's Palace Museum: The Maharaja's Palace Museum is a historic museum located in Jodhpur, and is dedicated to showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region.
• Explore the Old City: Jodhpur's Old City is a historic and culturally rich neighborhood, and visitors can take a walk through its narrow streets and explore its historic buildings and temples.
• Photography: Jodhpur is a beautiful and photogenic city, offering historic palaces, forts, and temples, as well as vibrant markets and street scenes, that make it a popular destination for photographers.

Jaisalmer

The land of sandcastles in Rajasthan is any photographer’s dream. Capture the setting desert sun or the starry sky in the night. Enjoy the old age camel safari on the golden sand dunes or the thrill of dune bashing on the quad bike. Camping in the desert is a surreal experience that everyone should experience once in a lifetime. Visit the Jaisalmer Golden Fort, Patwon ki haveli and just imagine past royal times as you walk on the cobbled streets of the Fort city.

Thins to Do in Jaisalmer

• Visit the Jaisalmer Fort: The Jaisalmer Fort is a massive and historic fort located in the heart of the city, and is a popular tourist destination.
• Explore the Havelis: Jaisalmer is home to several beautiful and historic havelis, traditional Rajasthani mansions, that are open to visitors.
• Take a Camel Safari: Jaisalmer is known for its desert landscape, and visitors can take a scenic camel safari through the dunes to experience the beauty of the desert.
• Visit the Jain Temples: Jaisalmer is home to several historic Jain temples, known for their intricate carvings and beautiful architecture.
• Attend a Cultural Show: Jaisalmer is known for its rich cultural heritage, and visitors can attend traditional dance and music shows to experience the local culture.
• Explore the Local Markets: Jaisalmer is home to several vibrant and colorful markets selling traditional Rajasthani handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry, making it a great place to shop for souvenirs and gifts.
• Visit the Gadisar Lake: The Gadisar Lake is a peaceful and picturesque lake located in the heart of Jaisalmer, and is a popular spot for boating and picnicking.
• Photography: Jaisalmer is a beautiful and photogenic city, offering historic palaces, forts, and temples, as well as vibrant markets and street scenes, that make it a popular destination for photographers.

Corbett National Park

Hop on an adventurous jungle safari to witness the majesty of an elusive Bengal Tiger and some of the most diverse flora and fauna in a beautiful national park in Uttarakhand. Between lazy afternoons spent sipping beer and relaxing by your hotel pool, scrumptious food, bonfire evenings, DJ and Jamming sessions; you will surely be charmed by Corbett.

Thins to Do in Corbett National Park

• Jungle Safari: Jim Corbett National Park is known for its wildlife, and visitors can take a jungle safari to see the tigers, elephants, leopards, and other animals in their natural habitat.
• Bird Watching: Jim Corbett National Park is home to a diverse array of bird species, making it a popular destination for bird watching.
• Trekking: The park offers several trekking trails that wind through the dense forests, and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
• Camping: Visitors can opt for camping in the park to experience the natural beauty and serenity of the surrounding landscape.
• Visit the Museum: The Corbett National Park Museum showcases the rich natural and cultural heritage of the region, and is a great place to learn about the park's history and ecosystem.
• Visit the Dhikala Zone: The Dhikala Zone is a scenic and peaceful part of the park, and is known for its abundant wildlife and scenic beauty.
• Rafting: Visitors can enjoy rafting on the Kosi River, which flows through the park, for an exciting and scenic adventure.
• Fishing: Fishing is permitted in some areas of the park, and visitors can try their hand at catching some of the park's many fish species.
• Photography: Jim Corbett National Park is a beautiful and photogenic park, and offers opportunities for capturing stunning images of its wildlife, landscapes, and cultural heritage.