Best Weekend Getaways in Himachal from Delhi — Under 10 Hours
Weekend Getaways from Delhi to Himachal Pradesh
Living in Delhi means the Himalayas are closer than you think. Several stunning Himachal destinations are reachable within 6-10 hours by road, making them perfect for a Friday-night departure, two days in the mountains, and a Sunday-night return.
The Quick Escapes (5-7 hours from Delhi)
Shimla (7 hours | 350 km)
The classic Delhi escape. Leave Friday night, wake up to pine-scented mountain air. Skip the crowded Mall Road — instead, explore the Heritage Walk through colonial-era buildings, hike to Jakhu Temple for sunrise, and lunch at a heritage café. The Kalka-Shimla toy train (if you have an extra day) is worth the detour.
Kasol (10 hours | 520 km)
An overnight bus from Delhi drops you in Kasol by dawn. Two days give you enough time for a Kheerganga trek (one night camping), exploration of Tosh village, and the café culture. Book a riverside camp for the complete experience.
Dharamshala/McLeodGanj (8 hours | 470 km)
The Tibetan cultural experience: attend a Dalai Lama teaching (check schedule), walk the kora around the Tsuglagkhang, hike to Triund basecamp, and explore the Tibetan cooking scene. Night buses from Delhi reach by 6 AM.
The lesser-known spots (7-10 hours)
Jibhi & Tirthan Valley (9 hours | 490 km)
Himachal's best-kept secret for weekenders. Arrive Saturday morning, spend the day on a forest trek to Serolsar Lake or a riverside walk in Tirthan. Sunday, explore the ancient Chehni Kothi tower. The quietude here is the opposite of Delhi's chaos.
Bir Billing (9 hours | 460 km)
Friday night bus, Saturday morning paragliding flight over the Kangra Valley. Afternoon exploring the Tibetan colony and Chokling Monastery. Sunday, visit a tea garden and take the evening bus back. An action-packed weekend.
Narkanda (8 hours | 380 km)
Beyond Shimla on the Hindustan-Tibet Highway, Narkanda offers apple orchards, the stunning Hatu Peak trek (3,400m), and winter skiing. Far fewer tourists than Shimla, with better mountain views.
Weekend Planning Template
The Perfect 2-Night Itinerary
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Transport Options
Month-by-Month Recommendations
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*Pro tip: Leave Delhi by 10 PM on Friday to avoid Chandigarh highway traffic. The early-morning arrival in the mountains — watching dawn break over the peaks — is worth the overnight journey.*
