Diwali is right around the corner and with it is coming a week-long vacation that calls for a getaway. Dilliwalas are famous for picking up their cars and driving to nearby destinations as soon as a long weekend arrives and the month of October is serving a week-long vacation opportunity. Here are five road trips from Delhi that will make for the perfect Diwali vacation. So pack your bags when you can and head to explore North India in a brand-new way. By Kumar Shree
Best Road Trips from Delhi –
Delhi to Shimla
One of the most popular hill stations of India, Shimla, makes for a great road trip from Delhi. Shimla wins hearts with its breathtaking beauty and old-world charm. The quaint town with its Victorian architecture, unforgettable train rides, shopping options, and a multitude of adventure sports options make it an all-time favourite destination.
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Duration of the trip: Shimla is about 344 km from Delhi via NH 44 and NH 5. It takes anywhere between 8 to 10 hours to reach the Queen of Hills.
Best time: March to June or November to February is ideal.
Where to stay: The Oberoi, Cecil and Snow Valley Resorts are good choices.
Highway restaurants: You can choose from multiple options in Chandigarh. Amrik Sukhdev, Haveli, and Gulshan Dhaba in Murthal are also popular eating spots on the way.
Things to keep in mind: Depending on which time of the year you are taking this trip, keep a track of the road conditions and temperature difference between Delhi and Shimla. Prepare and pack accordingly.
Delhi to Dharamshala
While the Kangra valley is a mesmerising bouquet of dreamy landscapes, it would not be wrong to term Dharamshala as the pride of the valley. After all, lush greenery, gushing streams, pristine grasslands, and stunning backdrops as far as the eyes can see— Dharamshala is truly remarkable. The headquarters of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama is perfect for a day or two of living in solitude and self-reflection.
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Duration of the trip: Delhi to Dharamshala via road is 474 km, which takes 10 to 11 hours via NH 44 and NH 503.
Best time: February to June is a favourable time.
Where to stay: D’Polo Club & Spa Resort and Buddha House Himalayan Brothers are good options to stay in Dharamshala.
Highway restaurants: Pahalwaan Dhaba in Murthal and Haveli in Karnal rank top on this route.
Things to keep in mind: Walking around is one of the best ways to explore Dharamshala. Make sure to carry a pair of good walking or trekking shoes, and easy wears.
Delhi to Neemrana
The royal town of Neemrana is a quick and short drive from Delhi, and it packs a multitude of experiences to make your visit worthwhile. The royal town fascinates with its architectural richness, eclectic cuisine, and a bevvy of adventure sports. The Neemrana Fort Palace built in 1464 AD doubles as a modern-day hotel, and the site for Flying Fox, one of the most popular adventure sports in the town.
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Duration of the trip: Delhi to Neemrana is about 129 km via NH 48, which takes 2 to 3 hours to cover.
Best time: November to February is the best time for a road trip from Delhi to Neemrana.
Where to stay: Neemrana Fort-Palace and Shiva Oasis Resort are the top choices.
Highway restaurants: Mannat Dhaba in Dharuhera is ideal for a quick bite.
Things to keep in mind: Since Neemrana is one of the rare destinations that blend heritage and adventure, make a list of things that you would like to do and explore. This will help you experience the essence of the place better during a short trip.
Delhi to Ranikhet
This charming hill station nestled in the Almora district of Uttarakhand exudes a therapeutic vibe that balms the weary soul. Literally translating to ‘Queen’s Meadow’, Ranikhet is a cantonment town that encapsulates the bygone colonial heritage and the present Kumaoni beauty.
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Duration of the trip: Delhi to Ranikhet is about 400 km via NH 9. It takes anywhere between 8 to 10 hours.
Best time: April to July is the best time to visit Ranikhet as the hill station town is at its peak beauty during this time.
Where to stay: Chevron Rosemount and Open View Estate.
Highway restaurants: Gajraula, Bikanerwala, Moga Punjabi Tadka, and Bhajan Dhaba.
Things to keep in mind: Sample Kumaoni food at the local dhabas. Trust us, you do not want to miss it, especially in Ranikhet.
Delhi to Narkanda
Even though the route to Narkanda passes through Kalka and Shimla, those looking for a calmer escape park their vehicles here. Hatu Peak, the highest in the district of Shimla is situated here. During winter, Narkanda doubles as a skiing destination. Look out for apple trees that pop on the side of the road every other turn. This is one of our favourite road trips from Delhi!
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Duration of the trip: Narkanda is about 403 km, which can be covered in 9 to 10 hours.
Best time: October to February
Where to stay: Since there are no proper hotels in Narkanda itself, Taj Theog Resort & Spa, Shimla and Sterling Kufri are great choices.
Highway restaurants: Puran Singh ka Dhaba in Ambala.
Things to keep in mind: Narkanda is a skiing haven, so do try the sport when you’re there. Also, the place is quiet and serene if you’re looking to skip the Shimla crowd.
If you have embarked on these road trips from Delhi already, share the pictures with us on social media and use the hashtag #TnlRoadTrips.
Main and Feature Image Credit: Stephen Cook/Unsplash
Related: Food Stops On The Mumbai-Goa Highway To Make Your Weekend Roadtrip Worthwhile
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