Need an escape from Delhi pollution? Here are 17 quick getaways from Delhi!
In recent times we have seen serious pollution menace in Delhi and NCR. The PM2.5 and PM10 showing ‘Hazardous’ levels threatening our immunity and health. There are times when you feel your lungs are going to get choked with the pollutants in the air. There is no escape as the entire region is engulfed by black smog leaving grey gloom and poor visibility. It is impossible to carry out a routine besides going to work and return to hide in the house. During the week it is still possible to cope up with the routine but weekends are difficult to handle when you are bound indoors. Even that is not healthy when PM2.5 inside the house leans towards red over 300 micrograms (five times over permitted levels by WHO).
With the winter approaching, the foggy season has started where we will see lot of fog/smog on almost daily basis. The geo location of Delhi between the cooler Himalayas and hotter Rajasthan further aggravates the situation with high humidity. The dark clouds hang low for days, sapping us of enthusiasm and moral. This is also the season with additional holidays where we can take longer vacations. But the foggy and polluted winter weekends demand stepping out of Delhi Pollution more often than just a long vacation at the end of the year.
Delhi fortunately is surrounded by states with panoramic mountains, mighty rivers and stunning historical forts. Here are some of the destinations which offer great weekend escapes from Delhi air pollution. The places listed here can be accessed by taking a road trip of 5-6 hours or by taking a short direct flight.
1 Tijara Fort Palace in Alwar, Rajasthan
- Distance from Delhi- 100 kilometers
- Driving time- 2 hours 20 minutes
- Swimming Pool – Yes
Located in Alwar in Rajasthan, Tijara Fort Palace is a heritage hotel run by Neemrana Hotels. Resorted beautifully, this 19th century fort contains 21 regal suits themed after India’s leading lady painters. The highlight of Tijara Fort is the seven terraced gardens which offer a magnificent view above the tall ramparts of the property. A weekend in Tijara Fort is nothing short of a quaint luxury escape. Read more about Tijara Fort Palace.
2 Hill Fort Kesroli in Alwar, Rajasthan
- Distance from Delhi- 150 kilometers
- Driving time- 3 hours 10 minutes
- Swimming Pool – Yes
Located in Sariska in Rajasthan, Hill Fort Kesroli is the oldest heritage property run by Neemrana Hotels. Perched on top of a hillock this boutique heritage hotel is surrounded by a farmland. The 14th century fort hotel is an epitome of serenity. There is nothing more calming than watching the sun setting over the horizon lined with green fields. The tranquility transports you in time and you will certainly forget about foggy Delhi over the weekend. Read more about Hill Fort Kesroli.
3 Ganga Kinare in Rishikesh, Uttarpradesh
- Distance from Delhi- 250 kilometers
- Driving time- 5 hours 20 minutes
- Flying time- 50 minutes to Dehradun + drive for half hour
Located on the banks of the Ganges in Rishikesh, the riverside boutique hotel of Ganga Kinare offers a tranquil weekend getaway. Tucked next to the holy waters of the Ganges and the mountains forming a backdrop, the open air jacuzzi at Ganga Kinare is designed to rejuvenate a tired soul. The waterside esplanade is perfect for quiet stroll or for morning yoga sessions. You can opt for a thrilling water rafting adventure or go for a safari in Rajaji National Park. The wellness retreat is a great place to unwind after a hectic work week. Read more about Ganga Kinare.
4 Moksha Himalaya Spa Resort in Chandigarh, Himachal Pradesh
- Distance from Delhi- 260 kilometers
- Driving time- 4 hours 15 minutes
- Flying time – 50 minutes to Chandigarh + drive for one hour
- Swimming Pool – Yes
Located in the Shivalik Range, is the Parwanoo District, just 30 kilometers from Chandigarh, Moksha Himalaya Spa Resort offers excellent views of the valley lined with lush pine woods and rippling Kaushalya River. The highlight of the resort is the cable car ride from the base which reveals great panorama of the Shivalik range and Parwanoo valley from the top. The walking trails around the resort are perfect for short hikes. Moksha Himalaya Spa Resort is a perfect getaway for a relaxing weekend for those seeking clean crisp air of the mountains without driving too far. Read more about Moksha Himalaya Spa Resort .
5 Neemrana Fort Palace, Rajasthan
- Distance from Delhi- 106 kilometers
- Driving time- 2 hours 10 minutes
- Swimming Pool – Yes
Located in Neemrana village in Rajasthan, Neemrana Fort Palace is a star heritage hotel run by Neemrana Hotels. The royal history of Rajasthan is tucked inside the terraces, arches and balconies of the 15th century fort. The thematic rooms in palatial wings are elegantly decorated with unique elements. Soak up the sun by the pools or just get lost in the history of Neemrana Fort. It will certainly deliver a magical weekend getaway away from the Delhi Pollution. Find out more about Neemrana Fort Palace.
6 Vishranti Resort and spa in Dehradun
- Distance from Delhi- 290 kilometers
- Driving time- 5 hours 10 minutes
- Flying time – 50 minutes to Dehradun + drive for one and half hour
- Swimming pool – Yes
Nestled in the Sal forests of Doon valley near Dehradun, Vishranti Resort and spa is a Sprawling natural retreat. The cottages are designed in a colonial countryside bungalows with verandas. The resort is surrounded by the farmland growing organic produce. Go for a rejuvenating weekend in the foothills of the Himalayas to get away from the madness of Delhi. Read more about Vishranti Resort and spa.
7 Rokeby Manor in Landour, Uttarakhand
- Distance from Delhi- 280 kilometers
- Driving time- 7 hours
- Flying time- 50 minutes to Dehradun + drive for one and half hours
- Swimming pool – no, but they have jacuzzi
Located in Landour, just ahead of Mussoorie, Rokeby Manor offers charming getaway overlooking the the rolling hills of the Shivalik in the Himalayas. The colonial retreat perched on top of a hill overlooks the valley filled serenity. At Rokeby you actually float on the sea of clouds most of the time. The Jacuzzi tucked in the woods at the height of 7500 feet is a perfect place to unwind and you will surely forget about Delhi Pollution. Read more about Rokeby Manor.
8 Homestead Villas in Kasauli, Himachal Pradesh
- Distance from Delhi- 290 kilometers
- Driving time- 5 hours 20 minutes
- Flying time- 55 minutes + drive for one hour
- Swimming pool – No
Located in Kasauli, Homestead Villas is an idyllic getaway into the Himalayas. The cottages at Homestead offer scenic window over the surrounding hills. The quaint town is tucked inside the Pine Trees and the lush green valley. Unwind by the fireplace and soak in the colonial vibe of villas. The home cooked meals and a drink by the fireplace is all you need to forget about challenges back home. Read more about Homestead Villas.
9 Suryavilas in Solan, Himachal Pradesh
- Distance from Delhi- 300 kilometers
- Driving time- 5 hours 30 minutes
- Flying time – 50 minutes to Chandigarh + drive for an hour
- Swimming pool – Yes
Located in Solan district, Suryavilas Resort & Spa offers an idyllic hideaway just off the main Kalka Shimla highway. The secluded resort boasts of charming cottages tucked away inside pine trees. The wellness spa at Surya Vilas offer programmes for cleansing and rejuvenation. Relax at the infinity pool overlooking the hills and you will surely forget about Delhi’s air quality. Surya Vilas also offers luxurious camps with attached bathrooms. If you are looking for some weekend thrill, go for an adventure course at the camp site. Read more about Surya Vilas Resort & Spa.
10 Corbett Riverside Resort in Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand
- Distance from Delhi- 260 kilometers
- Driving time- 5 hours 40 minutes
- Swimming pool – yes
Located close to the entrance of Jim Corbett National Park, Corbett Riverside Resort offers a great getaway into the wilderness. Situated next to the sparkling waters of the river Kosi, this is the only resort with a private river bank. Adventure seekers will prefer to go for a jungle safari to soak in the wilderness. Get cozy on a hammock or take a stroll along the bank, the sound of barking deer will constantly remind you of the wild side of life. A tranquil getaway to Corbett Riverside Resort always comes with the thrill. Read more about Corbett Riverside Resort.
11 Samode Palace near Jaipur, Rajasthan
- Distance from Delhi- 250 kilometers
- Driving time- 5 hours
- Swimming pool – yes
Located in Samode, near Jaipur, in Rajasthan, Samode Palace is a royal retreat tucked inside the hillocks of Aravali range. Built in 16th century, the royal interiors of Samode Palace are transformed with all the contemporary luxury while keeping the elements of history alive. The carpets and colorful murals on the walls remind you of the era bygone. Soak in the tranquility on a quiet rooftop or sink into the waters of a mosaic pool, the stay at Samode Palace will leave you in awe! Read more about Samode Palace.
12 Hotel Mud Fort Kuchesar, Uttarpradesh
- Distance from Delhi- 100 kilometers
- Driving time- 2 hours 30 minutes
- Swimming pool – Yes
Located in Kuchesar in Uttar Pradesh, Hotel Mud Fort Kuchesar is an exotic heritage hotel situated on the picturesque fertile plains of Ganges. The 18th century fort was the erstwhile seat of Jat Kingdom of Uttar Pradesh. The hotel boasts of colonial charm seamlessly blending into traditional Indian elements. The luxury retreat provides all the modern amenities amidst the historical setting. With little over two hours drive from Delhi, Hotel Mud Fort Kuchesar is an ideal weekend getaway to escape Delhi Pollution and relive the glories of the past. Read more about Hotel Mud Fort.
13 The Baradari Palace in Patiala, Punjab
- Distance from Delhi- 250 kilometers
- Driving time- 4 hours 20 minutes
- Swimming pool – Yes
Located in Patiala, the sprawling garden palace is a heritage hotel restored by Neemrana Group. Built in 19th century, The Baradari Palace is an architectural treasure of Punjab which boasts elegantly decorated spacious rooms with high ceiling. Relax in the verandah or on rooftop terraces and relive the history of Maharajah of Patiala. Read more about The Baradari Palace.
14 Laxmi Vilas Palace Hotel in Bharatpur, Rajasthan
- Distance from Delhi- 225 kilometers
- Driving time- 4 hours
- Swimming pool – Yes
Located close to the Keoladeo National Park in Bharatpur, Laxmi Vilas Palace Hotel is an elegantly furnished heritage hotel. Built in 19th century, the palace reflects the blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture. The royal retreat is situated just 5 kilometers from Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary. The wetland is home to hundreds of species of birds and attracts thousands of migratory birds from as far as Lake Baikal during the winter. Get close to the nature at Laxmi Vilas Palace Hotel and soak in the tranquility. Soak in the crisp air and forget about Delhi Pollution. Read more about Laxmi Vilas Palace Hotel.
15 Anand @ The Satluj in Anandpur Sahib, Punjab
- Distance from Delhi- 310 kilometers
- Driving time- 5 hours 10 minutes
- Swimming pool – No
Located in the holy town of Sri Anandpur Sahib, Anand @ The Satluj is an eco luxury retreat situated on the bank of the river Sutlej. The idyllic resort is surrounded by poplar tree plantation and lush green fields. The serene retreat offers an ideal weekend getaway where you can go for a stroll around the shores of the flowing river. Unwind in the tranquility or visit the gurdwaras in the town of Anandpur Sahib; the holiness of the place will surely take you away from the worries. Read more about Anand @ The Satluj.
16 Nahargarh Ranthambore in Sawai Madhopur, Rajasthan
- Distance from Delhi- 390 kilometers
- Driving time- 6 hours
- Swimming pool – Yes
Located in Sawai Madhopur, close to the Ranthambore National Park, Nahargarh Ranthambore is a stunning replica of a fort. It is not a heritage hotel but provides all the modern amenities and luxury with a touch of historical elegance. Nestled at the foothills of Aravali range, Nahargarh is complete nature retreat with its own swamp with birds and animals. Enjoy a fusion of history, nature and wilderness in the lap of luxury at Nahargarh Ranthambhore and forget about Delhi Pollution. Read more about Nahargarh Ranthambore.
17 Chambal Safari Lodge near Agra, Uttar Pradesh
- Distance from Delhi- 307 kilometers
- Driving time- 5 hours
- Swimming pool – No
Located just an hour drive from Agra, in the heart of Chambal Valley, Chambal Safari Lodge is an oasis created on sprawling acres of reclaimed woodland. Built in 19th century, the main kothi and the cottages have been transformed into a eco lodge boasting all the modern amenities. The lodge can organize a guide and safari to the National Chambal Sanctuary which is situated 22 km from the lodge. Discover untamed Chambal in jeeps, on camels or by foot. The weekend exploring the Chambal ravines for migratory birds and ubiquitous crocodiles is worth driving there for! Read more about Chambal Safari Lodge.
Please share if you know of any exclusive properties which are within driving distance from Delhi. I will keep adding to this list. Till then get away from Delhi Pollution, escape to these destinations and breath clean air! Happy Tripping!
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