While most of the best known tourist places near Delhi are swarming with tourists during the peak seasons, it’s always better to travel to places that are lesser known. There are numerous offbeat destinations near Delhi that have survived the rampant wave of commercialism.
Places that aren’t yet well known may have some drawbacks, like scarcity of activities after sun down and extravagant accommodation options. However, the much needed peace and tranquillity is guaranteed.
So, here are few of the offbeat places near Delhi that tourists haven’t discovered yet:
1. Pangot- A birdwatcher’s trove
A charming little hill town located in the Nainital district of Uttaranchal, Pangot is like a paradise for nature lovers and bird watchers. With around 580 bird species been recorded in this area, you are bound to encounter a few fluttering colourful feathers. Even though it’s counted as one of the offbeat places around Delhi, the resorts here are gorgeous and will make your holiday worthwhile.
Distance: 310 KM
Nearest Railway station: Kathgodam
2. Binsar- Towering peaks to roaring predators
Binsar is breathtakingly surreal! From the vivid view of the Trisul and Nanda Devi to its lush wildlife sanctuary, Binsar has it all to lure your wanderlust. Perched up at 2400 meters above sea level, it is one of the highest hill station in the Kumaon region. It’s still one of the fairly offbeat destinations around Delhi that is not yet commercialised by tourists.
Distance: 400 km
Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam
3. Fagu- A hamlet of stone houses
Fagu is an enchanting little hill town in the Kufri region of Shimla. You can have a glimpse of the majestic Himalayan summits from here. Dotted by little stone walled houses and lush green plantations, it’s definitely one of the most charming offbeat weekend getaways near Delhi. Make sure to be a part of the ski fest if you’re here in February.
Distance: 380 km
4. Darang- A whiff of freshness and refreshment
Another Himachali beauty, Darang is located near Mcleodganj on the road to Palampur. Walk through lush tea gardens rolling over the hills and mesmerise to the sound of toads and chirping of birds. It is one of the offbeat holiday destinations near Delhi from where you can view the majestic Dhauladhars standing tall over the delightful hamlet.
Distance: 435 km
5. Pithoragarh- Where the gods dine
Pithoragarh district is located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. The beauty of this place is beyond explanation. Surrounded by towering snow clad peaks, alpine forests and green valley and perennial rivers, it is definitely one of the most gorgeous offbeat places near Delhi that is still unspoilt by commercialism. Make sure to visit the mesmerising Soar Valley.
Distance: 460 km
6. Kausani- Charming meadows adorned by pine and oak trees
Another undiscovered Kumaoni beauty, Kausani is the best place to view the majestic massifs of Nanda Devi, Trishul and Panchachuli in their full glory. There are a few 12th century temples in Bajinath that you can visit and the view points from where you can witness the mountains. It n of the offbeat weekend getaways near Delhi in Uttarakhand that has managed to retain its natural form.
Distance: 398 km
Nearest railhead: Haldwani
7. Munsiyari- Gear up for Panchachuli
Munsiyari is a popular destination among mountaineers and trekkers, but it’s still counted as one of the offbeat destinations near Delhi since it’s not yet frequented regularly by tourists. The best part about this quaint little hamlet in Uttarakhand is that you can have a vivid view of the Panchachuli peaks from here. It is also the starting point for the Milam glacier trek.
Distance: 572 km
Nearest railhead: Kathgodam
8. Naukuchiatal- The lake with nine corners
Naukuchiatal is a surreal destination in Uttarakhand. Flanked by Bhimtal and Nainital on either sides, this picturesque hill town is best known for its placid and beautiful lake which is the deepest in the region. Another amazing feature of this place is the independent art and music festival, Escape.
Distance: 320 km
Nearest rail: Kathgodam
9. Kanatal- For a little adventure and tranquility
Situated between two extremely popular and commercial hill stations Mussoorie and Chamba, Kanatal is so far one of the offbeat places near Delhi that offers absolute tranquility and peace. There are a few awesome properties by famed hoteliers like Club Mahindra and there are also few adventure camps that offers exciting activities amid the hilly terrains.
Distance: 317 KMNearest Railhead: either Dehradun or Rishikesh
Source: traveltriangle.com