Travelers of India, unite! It’s winter season, aka, the best time to travel around the country. If you are Team Delhi on the lookout for a relaxing break, but are not up to inhaling recycled in-flight air and dealing with fog related delays, this is the list for you. Hire a cab and take a road trip (the best kind of trips in our opinion!) to one of the destinations on this list. Even if you’ve been there before, these places are so multifaceted that you are sure to always find something new to experience, see, buy or eat!
Let’s turn the ignition on this list, shall we?
For the history & culture lover:
- Jaipur –
Can anyone ever get enough of Jaipur? Not only is the city an absolute visual treat, the Delhi to Jaipur cab fare is reasonable . A five-hour drive is all it takes to get to the pink city that greets you with the splendor of a time gone by. Once you are done with the forts, the mahals and the temples, take a walk around the city streets for lesser known treasures and experiences.
Expert Tip: Don’t hesitate to go off the guide book and try some local food stores for a culinary experience you will never forget!
- Hastinapur –
Why does this name sound so familiar? Because we grew up listening to stories of how it was the capital city of the Pandava’s! Yes, this is that very Hastinapur that plays a prominent part in the Mahabharata. But don’t take a chariot there, book a cab instead. At 135 kms, this will be a quick drive to witness the grand architecture and listen to the riveting tales of an era long gone.Expert Tip: Make sure you stop by the Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary for spectacular sightings of over 117 bird species along with a wide range of mammals including the Ganges river dolphin, of course, if you are lucky! - Alwar –
Here’s a place you can visit if you don’t want that traditional touristy experience. If a slow paced, relaxing holiday around visiting heritage havelis, enjoying the winter sun, exploring the colorful local markets and gorging on Alwar ka mawa sounds like your style, take a look into this town. Nestled in the Aravali hills, this town is also very close to some brilliant wildlife sanctuaries that can plan on visiting if time permits. More information on those spots in the next section!
Expert Tip: Alwar is one of the few places in the country that make living like royalty accessible to all. Check out their palace stays that are surprisingly affordable and enjoy the weekend like a royal!
For the wildlife & nature over:
- Shimla –
Head to Shimla for mesmerizing views, clean mountain air and an incredible landscape that will warm your heart! Shimla in the winter turns into a wonderland that enjoys snow in December & January. What is it about plummeting temperatures that makes food and shopping that much more enjoyable? Don’t just read about it, book that car and head over to Shimla this winter. And don’t forget to schedule some time for kufri to try your hand at skiing and some trekking.Expert Tip: Ensure that you avail a Delhi to Shimla car rental with an experienced driver. - Sariska Tiger Reserve –
If you are looking forward to getting away from the stress-inducing concrete jungle and into a stress-busting real one, Sariska is a good bet. Go on an early morning safari and see if you are one of the lucky ones of the day to spot a majestic Tiger. You can also catch glimpses of peacocks, deer, jackal, boars and more along the area of the sanctuary that includes stretches of rocky terrains, grasslands and dry deciduous forests.
Expert Tip: In case you are planning to visit Alwar, you can club the two since Sariska is only a quick 40 kms away.
Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary –
- The winter season sees thousands of migratory birds descend on Keoladeo National Park, formerly known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary. Explore the park on foot, cycle through the area or hire a vehicle to get the full experience of a unique sanctuary. Find ancient temples inside and get to feed tortoises that are over 250 years old!Expert Tip: Carry binoculars since birds can be shy and spotting them from a distance is sometimes the only option.
Hope this list gave you some ideas to have some new adventures or rekindled the desire to revisit some old favorites that have been forgotten. Either way, happy travelling!
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