Almost half the year has gone. Most of you Dilliwallahs must be wondering where to go, right? But worry no more…We present you top 5 family getaways that need less planning and are easily accessible from Delhi. So, pack your bags and head here to relax with your family and enjoy to the fullest.
Getaway #1: Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary
Rosy pelicans, hawks, warblers, kingfishers- these are just some of the rare, beautiful species of birds that you would find here. Home to more than 350 bird species, the Keoladeo Ghana National Park (popularly known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary) is one of the best places around Delhi to go for bird-watching with your family. Don’t forget to carry binoculars along! Besides that, you can also visit the Lohagarh Fort, an architectural marvel built in the 18th century by King Suraj Mal.
Watch closely at Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary
For Kids: Let your child spot various migratory birds, geese, ducks, cranes and others at this abundant aviary habitat.
Getting There: Take NH-2 from Delhi which directly takes you to Bharatpur via Mathura
Driving Time: Less than 4 hours
Getaway #2: Manesar
Sometimes all you need is a hotel that can turn your stay into a memorable family holiday. Away from the blaring noise of Gurgaon streets, Heritage Village Resort & Spa is constructed in a true Rajasthani style with regal interiors, in the sleepy hamlet of Manesar. While you are here, stay at one of the heritage rooms, savour various multi-cuisine dishes and rejuvenate at the spa. Want more? You can play badminton, tennis, billiards, cricket or go for an early morning walk in the lush-green lawns of the hotel.
Take a cool dip in the pool
For Kids: Try out different rides and swings at the Children Park, sing your favourite song at the weekend special karaoke night and enjoy a game of water basketball here!
Getting there: Located on the Delhi-Jaipur highway NH-8, the property is a mere 30 minutes’ drive from the IGI Airport
Driving Time: Less than 4 hours
Getaway #3: Udaipur
Although Udaipur is touted as the most romantic city in India, it has something to offer all types of travellers. From the colourful shopping streets to roof-top restaurants (overlooking the lake) and of course, boating in Lake Pichola- Udaipur provides you with that perfect breather in a short time to get away from the humdrum of a metro city. The fact that Udaipur is well-connected by autos and taxis makes it easy to visit different attractions in the city. Simply book a hotel in the City Centre and you are sorted for the rest of your trip.
It’s story time in Udaipur | Bookchen/Flickr
For Kids: Let the colourful brigade of puppets narrate historical stories to your child at the puppet show. Watch the spectacular musical fountain scale different heights at the Sound and Light Show in the evening at City Palace.
Flying Time: Less than 2 hours. You can book a non-stop flight that runs daily from New Delhi to Udaipur.
Getaway #4: Dharamshala
While most of the hill stations demand a long drive, Dharamshala comes to your rescue when you are looking for a quick getaway to the hills. Boasting of direct air connectivity, you can easily take that much-awaited break with your family to escape the scorching summer heat of Delhi. Soak in the cool weather of this picturesque hill station. Further up, go to McLeodganj and try out the Tibetan cuisine at any of the restaurants, pay your respect at the Namgyal monastery and visit the beautiful Bhagsunag Falls.
Set up your camp amidst mountains
For Kids: It’s adventure time! Set out for a mild trek. You can also pack your own picnic basket and camp with your family amidst the Dhauladhar mountain range.
Flying Time: Less than 2 hours. You can book a non-stop flight that runs from New Delhi to Dharamshala.
Getaway #5: Achrol
Ever wondered what it feels like to live in the woods? At the Tree House Resort in Achrol you can experience something as close as that. Take the offbeat route, stay in a treehouse and let your family feel up-close with nature at this impeccably constructed property in Achrol. What would surprise you here is the number of activities to keep you busy all through the weekend. From archery to biking, spa to nature gym, outdoor movie screenings to swimming; make sure you experience it all.
Ready, steady and go… for jungle safari
For Kids: Go for an early morning Jungle Safari, feed the rabbits and ducks, hop on a camel or play badminton in the activity area.
Getting There: Simply take NH-8 and follow the road that leads to Jaipur
Driving Time: Less than 4 hours
While Delhiites can now start packing, here are some cool getaway options for Bangaloreans to get going.
(Blog ordered by Gaurav Bhatia)