Top Weekend Destinations From Delhi Under Budget
Short getaways are perfect for refreshing and won't drain your wallet too much. You already have a considerable advantage if you're in Delhi.
Going on a spontaneous weekend getaway is super easy from Delhi. This is because there are so many amazing places within a few hours' drive.
We have compiled a list of accessible as well as reasonably priced destinations that are ideal for a much-needed break. Keep reading to plan your next quick escape without the stress!
What Makes a Perfect Weekend Getaway from Delhi?
What makes a perfect weekend getaway from Delhi? Minimum travel time & maximum chill! Plan trips that are no more than 5 to 7 hours away.
This avoids spending too much time on travel. Choose the best outstation cab service in Delhi for your perfect weekend getaway at reasonable pricing.
Consider an affordable stay as well as food, because no one wants to worry about the cost while eating a filling thali or drinking chai in the hills. The best getaways offer comfort at an affordable price.
A great weekend destination offers something for everyone, from adventure to sightseeing. It is all about escaping the usual to make lasting memories, all in just a couple of days.
Top Budget-Friendly Weekend Getaways from Delhi
Rishikesh
Rishikesh is the ideal getaway from Delhi since it blends excitement with peace. It is just 240 km away from Delhi. It takes around 6 to 7 hours by road. You have the option to take a bus or take an Innova on rent in Delhi.
Don't miss river rafting or Ganga Aarti while visiting Rishikesh. It's the perfect place for families or those travelling alone.
Jaipur
Jaipur is the ideal destination for a memorable weekend getaway, offering a royal escape without straining your budget. It is around 280 km from Delhi. It takes 5 to 6 hours by road. You can take an outstation taxi or bus to reach Jaipur cost-effectively. Explore Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal or Jal Mahal. Johari or Bapu Bazaar is a must-visit for shopping.
Agra
Agra is an ideal destination for history enthusiasts or families. It's a perfect weekend getaway with plenty of affordable travel options. Agra is about 200 km from Delhi. It is a quick 3-4 hour drive by road.
Consider hiring an outstation taxi for added comfort. Explore the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort or the serene Mehtab Bagh for a sunset view of the Taj. Try some authentic street foods like petha or chaats.
Vrindavan
Vrindavan is a serene retreat rich in history & devotion. It is about 160 km from Delhi. The travel time is around 3 hours.
Experience the mesmerising evening aarti at Prem Mandir. You can also visit the revered Banke Bihari Temple, as well as Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi, nearby in Mathura. It is perfect for families or cultural enthusiasts looking for a peaceful getaway.
Shimla
Shimla is an ideal weekend destination from Delhi due to its blend of colonial charm & natural beauty. It is approximately 343 km from Delhi. It takes around seven or eight hours to travel.
Explore the Ridge for panoramic views. Visit Jakhu Temple atop Jakhu Hill. It is the perfect getaway for families or anyone looking for a fabulous retreat from city life.
Amritsar
It's a soulful journey through history & faith. Amritsar is around 450 km away. The travel time is about 7 to 8 hours by road.
Visit the Golden Temple for a serene spiritual experience. Experience the Wagah Border ceremony. Explore the Partition Museum as well as Jallianwala Bagh in Amritsar.
It is the perfect getaway for families or food lovers if you are looking for a little soul-stirring journey.
Haridwar
Haridwar is a gateway to spiritual India. It is around 220 km from Delhi. Haridwar is roughly a 5- to 6-hour drive by road.
You can attend the Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri for a truly magical experience as the sun sets to see the diyas light up the river. Take a holy dip in the Ganges for a purifying spiritual experience. Visit ancient temples like Mansa Devi or Chandi Devi by cable car. Haridwar is ideal for spiritual seekers or anyone looking for a peaceful break from the city chaos.
The Final Thoughts
Planning a budget-friendly getaway from Delhi is easier than you would imagine. There is a perfect place for every mood or budget.
Experience stunning scenery or enriching moments without draining your savings. You can turn a simple weekend into a refreshing getaway with thoughtful planning.
Get ready to discover the hidden treasures around Delhi on a budget. Your perfect break is just a road trip away!
TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Business Insider
09-07-2025
- Business Insider
I live in India and have traveled all over the country — but there's just one city I'd revisit again and again
I live in India and have traveled all over the country — but it took me a while to visit Varanasi. The city has a rich, spiritual history, but for me, it was just a spot on my bucket list. Then, the first time I visited, I fell in love with the city's beauty, street food, and history. I've spent years traveling across India — from getting stuck in Mumbai traffic to beach-hopping in Goa, road-tripping through the Himalayas, exploring Rajasthan's palaces, eating my way through Old Delhi, and chasing waterfalls in Meghalaya's misty hills. Yet somehow, I'd never been to Varanasi. When I finally visited last summer, it felt strange to admit I was a first-timer. One of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities, Varanasi is hardly a secret. For many Hindus, it's a sacred place to wash away sins in the Ganges (India's holiest of rivers) or seek moksha, freedom from the cycle of rebirth. I wasn't chasing either. I went out of curiosity, expecting to check a few sights off my list and move on. Instead, the city got under my skin in the best way. I've been all over India, but Varanasi still felt like a completely new place. I live in India, so I'm not easily fazed by crowds or chaos. Somehow, though, Varanasi felt like another dimension. I checked into a hotel near Assi Ghat, toward the south of the city, and set out on foot. The gullies, or lanes, twisted like a maze. One moment, I was dodging scooters and cows; the next, I was sidestepping puddles and flower petals, while monkeys leaped over tin roofs. Then, at the end of a lane, I saw the Ganges. It was wide and still, and something about it caught me off guard. I just stood there for a minute, taking it in — calm and quiet, even though everything else around me felt loud and intense. I visited the city's sacred cremation grounds and was surprised that I didn't feel at all uneasy. Later that day, I walked to Manikarnika Ghat, the city's main cremation site and one of more than 80 ghats (or riverfront steps) lining the Ganges. I'd heard about it, but being there in person was something else. I watched a body burning on a wooden pyre. Just steps away, a chai vendor was serving tea, kids were playing, and men were bathing in the river. It didn't feel morbid. It felt deeply human, like life and death weren't opposites, but part of the same cycle that shaped the city. I expected spirituality, but I found something else. That evening, I joined a group on a small boat to watch the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, near Kashi Vishwanath Temple. It's a devotional ritual that uses fire as an offering to the river. The banks were packed. Priests in saffron robes waved multi-tiered lamps and incense sticks in synchrony, as cymbals clanged and chants filled the air. Phone screens glowed across the crowd. To me, it felt less like a religious ritual and more like a well-rehearsed performance. The ceremony itself was powerful, but because of the mix of people watching it — pilgrims, locals, foreign tourists — was even more moving. The street food was some of the best I've had in India. Varanasi is a street food haven, and a few dishes stood out enough that I'd go back just to eat them. One of my favorite meals involved tamatar chaat (mashed tomato mix topped with crispy lentils, chutneys, and house spices) and palak patta chaat (deep-fried spinach leaves topped with yogurt and tamarind sauce) at Deena Chaat Bhandar, a legendary stall that's served locals for over five decades. I also enjoyed eating aloo kachori (a fried bread ball typically stuffed with potato) and jalebis (coiled, deep-fried sweets soaked in sugar syrup) at the iconic Ram Bhandar. Blue Lassi, a tiny, photo-plastered shop in the old city, served the best saffron lassi (yogurt drink) I've ever had. I'd often end the day with a paan (a betel leaf packed with areca nuts, rose jam, and slivers of coconut) from a roadside stall. I also loved taking a quick visit to Sarnath, about 30 minutes away. On my second day, I took a quick trip to Sarnath, a nearby town where the Buddha gave his first sermon. I visited the Wat Thai temple, where I saw an 80-foot Buddha statue. On the way back, I stopped at the Sarnath Art Gallery, where I watched a man give a live demo of how Banarasi saris are made. "Banaras is known for two things — paan and saris," he said, grinning. "The paan's in my mouth. The sari's on the loom." I'd always seen saris just as wedding wear. Watching how much time and skill went into every thread gave me a new appreciation for them as pieces of artwork. I visited Varanasi just to check it off my list — but now, I can't wait to return.
Time Business News
20-06-2025
- Time Business News
Top 7 Benefits of Booking a Puja Online
In a technology-driven world where everything—from groceries to doctor consultations—is just a tap away, why should spirituality be left behind? For every devotee who's stood in a long temple queue under the scorching sun, unsure about the muhurat, priest, or rituals, booking a puja online feels like divine intervention. It's the difference between a packed train ride and a chariot that takes you straight to the deity's feet. If you've ever felt torn between your hectic schedule and your spiritual duties, here's good news: Bhakti has gone digital. Let's explore the top 7 benefits you receive if you book a puja online, and how platforms like Utsav are quietly but powerfully transforming devotion across India. Picture this: wanting to conduct a pooja for kaal sarp dosh— an extremely critical ceremony that usually needs certain timings, temples such as Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga, and skilled priests. Traditionally, it entails travel, planning, and logistical mayhem. But with a mere click, today's pilgrims can: Pick the specific puja they desire Pick a favourable temple anywhere in India Order it from the comfort of their living room, with no fuss It's as if the doors of divinity swing open exactly when you knock, even though you don't have to venture out of your house. One of the most vexing fears of contemporary devotees is 'Am I doing it right?' Fear of omission or even performing a single step in the wrong way can haunt the most devout spirit. When you book puja online, particularly for intricate rituals such as the pooja for kaal sarp dosh, sites like Utsav guarantee: Ritual step-by-step guide On-time reminders of the puja date Viewing the right mantras Visual presence at temple rituals You're not passively watching a livestream — you're engaged, spiritually and mentally. It's as if you have a priest taking you through every step, virtually holding your hand through the divine. Some temples are dreams carved in stone — places like Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga, where thousands go for liberation from doshas like Kaal Sarp. But not everyone can travel to these sacred sites due to health, time, or finances. Online puja bookings let you: Access high-energy temples remotely Perform temple-specific pujas without travel Receive Prasa and blessings at home Imagine it as the temple visiting you, covered in faith and sent to your doorstep. Festivals such as Kumbh Mela (2025 in Allahabad), Navratri, or Maha Shivratri bring immense spiritual value. But these are also peak season travel times, and millions push and shove, competing for space, time, and spiritual service. With online reservation, devotees can: Make prayers on the precise date of the festival Conduct Ganga Aarti, Rudrabhishek, or Triveni Puja from a distance Take blessed Prasad and soak in the festival spirit virtually Most important upcoming puja dates in 2025 to keep in mind: Kumbh Mela (Allahabad): Starts January 13, with Mauni Amavasya on February 26 Starts January 13, with Mauni Amavasya on February 26 Maha Shivratri: February 26 February 26 Navratri: Starts September 22 It's like sitting front row at India's grandest divine performances, without fighting the crowd. Spirituality is intensely personal. Some do pujas for health, others for planetary cures. If you book puja online over the net, it's not a factory-fitted offering. Devotees get to select: Nature of puja (e.g., Maha Rudrabhishek, pooja for kaal sarp dosh) Preferred temple (such as Jyotirlingas or Shaktipeeths) Choice of date and time according to their Janam Kundali You customise your faith experience, like you'd customise a wedding attire — intimate and handcrafted. Unlike stereotypical pandits or unclear ceremonies, reliable platforms ensure complete transparency. With Utsav, for instance: You get videos or images of your puja You know the priest's name who's conducting it You get Prasad and sacred material such as Rudraksha, Kumkum, or Sindoor It's not only a service; it's sacred transparency. As if your faith comes with a bill from the heavens, lengthy and to the point. Ultimately, the actual intent of any puja is peace of mind. And if you've ordered it online, gone through all the steps, and received the Prasad, there's a subtle but powerful emotional satisfaction. You don't feel like you've outsourced bhakti; you feel like you've augmented it. No more worrying, 'Did I do enough?' No feeling guilty for missing a temple visit A sense of profound connection to the divine It's like swapping background noise with the soothing hum of temple bells ringing especially for you. Behind it all is Utsav— a platform subtly empowering lakhs to connect with their heritage. With access to famous temples, precise rituals, and sacred Prasad, Utsav is no replacement for devotion — it's the connector that makes it convenient. Whether it's a reservation of a pooja for kaal sarp dosh at Trimbakeshwar or watching the spiritual majesty of Kumbh Mela online, Utsav makes devotion accessible without dilution. These days, getting a sacred ritual done doesn't need a train ticket or a hasty visit to the priest's home. It just requires your will — and maybe a tap on your phone. With sites like Utsav, your road to spiritual satisfaction is just a click away, be it via their official website or their app available on the Google Play Store. Divine connection, minus the complication. So next time a festival comes around or a dosh needs fixing, don't worry. Just recall — the divine has gone digital. All you have to do is appear, even from your own home. Book a puja online. Embrace bhakti. Be blessed. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Time Business News
18-06-2025
- Time Business News
Experience the True Essence of Uttarakhand Tourism
Tucked in the lap of the Himalayas, Uttarakhand offers a landscape that blends spiritual heritage with natural beauty. Known for its sacred rivers, snow-covered peaks, dense forests, and ancient temples, Uttarakhand Tourism brings travelers close to India's cultural soul and ecological richness. From pilgrimages to wildlife adventures, this destination is for seekers of peace, thrill, and simplicity alike. Uttarakhand is often called Dev Bhoomi — the Land of the Gods — because of its many revered pilgrimage sites. For centuries, saints, devotees, and travelers have made their way to these spiritual landmarks. Char Dham Yatra: The journey to Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath forms one of the most important Hindu pilgrimages. Each site sits amidst the mountains, connected not just by roads but by deep faith. The journey to Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath forms one of the most important Hindu pilgrimages. Each site sits amidst the mountains, connected not just by roads but by deep faith. Haridwar and Rishikesh: On the banks of the Ganges, these twin cities offer spiritual immersion. While Haridwar hosts the grand Ganga Aarti, Rishikesh has become a global center for yoga and meditation. On the banks of the Ganges, these twin cities offer spiritual immersion. While Haridwar hosts the grand Ganga Aarti, Rishikesh has become a global center for yoga and meditation. Hemkund Sahib: A Sikh pilgrimage site at a height of over 4,000 meters, surrounded by snow and serenity. These spiritual centers are not just religious sites; they're part of the cultural identity that makes Uttarakhand Tourism rich in heritage. Hill towns in Uttarakhand are timeless in charm and have served as retreats for writers, travelers, and nature lovers for decades. Nainital: A serene lake town with colonial architecture and bustling local markets. Boating, ropeway rides, and peaceful walks around Naini Lake are common experiences here. A serene lake town with colonial architecture and bustling local markets. Boating, ropeway rides, and peaceful walks around Naini Lake are common experiences here. Mussoorie: Popularly called the Queen of Hills, Mussoorie is lined with scenic viewpoints and old churches. It's ideal for short breaks and romantic getaways. Popularly called the Queen of Hills, Mussoorie is lined with scenic viewpoints and old churches. It's ideal for short breaks and romantic getaways. Almora, Ranikhet, and Binsar: These quieter hill stations offer an escape from crowds. Mist-covered valleys, pine forests, and panoramic views of the Himalayas define their charm. Each hill station has its own personality, adding depth to the landscape of Uttarakhand Tourism. For those drawn to untamed nature, Uttarakhand has several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries that protect the region's rich biodiversity. Jim Corbett National Park: India's first national park, known for its tiger population and dense Sal forests. Safari trails bring visitors close to elephants, leopards, deer, and more. India's first national park, known for its tiger population and dense Sal forests. Safari trails bring visitors close to elephants, leopards, deer, and more. Rajaji National Park: A lesser-known gem that offers quiet safaris, birdwatching, and untouched terrain. A lesser-known gem that offers quiet safaris, birdwatching, and untouched terrain. Valley of Flowers National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its alpine meadows and rare plant species. This area remains snow-covered for most of the year but blooms spectacularly in the summer. Nature conservation is a big part of Uttarakhand Tourism, and these sanctuaries showcase how the state balances ecology with visitor experiences. While many come to Uttarakhand for its peace and culture, the state is also a hotspot for thrill-seekers. Adventure has a strong presence here — not in theme parks, but in raw natural environments. Trekking: Routes like the Roopkund Trail, Kedarkantha Trek, and Har Ki Dun take you through dense forests, high-altitude meadows, and snowy ridges. Routes like the Roopkund Trail, Kedarkantha Trek, and Har Ki Dun take you through dense forests, high-altitude meadows, and snowy ridges. River Rafting: Rishikesh offers powerful rapids of the Ganges, perfect for both beginners and seasoned rafters. Rishikesh offers powerful rapids of the Ganges, perfect for both beginners and seasoned rafters. Paragliding and Ziplining: In towns like Ranikhet and Bhimtal, you can fly over green valleys or zoom across wide gorges. In towns like Ranikhet and Bhimtal, you can fly over green valleys or zoom across wide gorges. Rock Climbing and Mountain Biking: These sports are gaining traction among visitors who want to push their limits in nature. These activities attract a younger crowd and keep the spirit of Uttarakhand Tourism adventurous and alive. The culture of Uttarakhand is shaped by its mountain life. Folk songs, dance forms like Chholiya , and handwoven garments tell stories of the past and present. Local fairs such as Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra or the Purnagiri Mela pull visitors into rituals that have remained unchanged for generations. Cuisine is simple yet flavorful — Aloo Ke Gutke , Mandua Roti , and Bal Mithai are just a few examples. Villages in the hills have preserved these culinary traditions, offering visitors a taste of mountain life beyond typical restaurants. Cultural preservation is a core value of Uttarakhand Tourism. It's not just about what you see, but how you feel connected to the local way of life. With its fragile ecosystems and spiritual significance, Uttarakhand encourages conscious tourism. More homestays are being built using local materials. Initiatives to reduce plastic waste in tourist zones are gaining ground. Trekking groups now carry back all waste and follow rules laid down by the forest departments. Travelers are urged to respect religious customs, avoid littering, and support local artisans rather than large commercial vendors. These efforts make Uttarakhand Tourism a model of sustainable travel for the rest of India. Not every gem in Uttarakhand is on the tourist map. Some treasures lie off the beaten path, perfect for those who seek quiet and authenticity. Chopta: Often called the Mini Switzerland of India, this region is a base for treks to Tungnath and Chandrashila. Dense forests and open skies define the area. Often called the Mini Switzerland of India, this region is a base for treks to Tungnath and Chandrashila. Dense forests and open skies define the area. Munsiyari: A far-off village with majestic views of the Panchachuli peaks. It's a trekker's paradise. A far-off village with majestic views of the Panchachuli peaks. It's a trekker's paradise. Kanatal and Dhanaulti: Close to Mussoorie, yet quieter and greener, ideal for a relaxed weekend. Close to Mussoorie, yet quieter and greener, ideal for a relaxed weekend. Askot and Dharchula: Border towns that offer raw Himalayan terrain, rare wildlife, and glimpses of local tribal life. Such hidden corners are becoming increasingly vital to Uttarakhand Tourism, especially for travelers who want more than just popular sightseeing. The timing of your trip affects what you'll experience: Summer (March to June): Ideal for hill stations, trekking, and rafting. Clear skies and mild temperatures dominate. Ideal for hill stations, trekking, and rafting. Clear skies and mild temperatures dominate. Monsoon (July to September): Great for lush greenery, though some regions may face landslides. Best avoided for long treks. Great for lush greenery, though some regions may face landslides. Best avoided for long treks. Winter (October to February): Perfect for snowfall and a peaceful retreat. Skiing and snow activities pick up in places like Auli. Each season brings out a different side of the mountains, making Uttarakhand Tourism a year-round journey. Acclimatize slowly: Especially when heading to high altitudes. Respect local customs: Dress modestly at religious places. Pack wisely: Layers are key, as temperatures can vary sharply. Carry cash: Many remote areas have limited digital payment access. Book early in peak season: Especially during Char Dham Yatra or school holidays. Being well-prepared helps visitors experience Uttarakhand Tourism in a safer and more fulfilling way. Uttarakhand is not a place that rushes you. It invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect — with nature, with tradition, and often, with yourself. Its valleys hold stories, its rivers carry prayers, and its mountains watch silently over everything. Whether you're chasing adrenaline or stillness, Uttarakhand Tourism offers a canvas large enough for every kind of traveler. This isn't a destination that demands attention. It simply waits — calm, timeless, and always welcoming. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
