Yearning for that long overdue break, but work, leave and deadlines are putting a brake on it?No worries, hit the road and reach these nearby destinations for a quick trip on the weekend. Verdant countryside, fresh air and the sheer joy of leaving the city behind will make you feel rejuvenated.
Spa break at Parwanoo
What can be more relaxing than enjoying a rejuvenating spa up in the hills. Drive down to Parwanoo near Chandigarh and book yourself a spa ‘treat’ment at Moksha Himalaya Spa Resort. Enjoy the ropeway ride and relax amidst the fresh green environ. The terrace restaurant with both indoor and outdoor sitting area offers the best of fine dining experience along with panoramic view.
Moksha Himalaya Spa Resort, Parwanoo
Phone: 01792 232 340
Distance from Delhi: 260 kms
Estimated travel time: 5hrs
Rajasthani flavour at Chokhi Dhani, Sonipat
How about a culinary break? If you love food and want to treat your taste buds to authentic Rajasthani fare, then head to Chokhi Dhani in Sonipat. Give the popular Murthal dhabas a miss this time and keep driving till you hear Rajasthani music playing from this village resort in Sonipat. Masseurs and soothsayers complete the setting of a village fair.
Chokhi Dhani, Sonipat
Phone:08222822281
Distance from Delhi: 65km
Estimated travel time: 1.30 hrs
Feel regal at Patan Mahal
The Patan Mahal is a 13th Century Palace with the trappings of everything regal. Huge courtyard, high ceiling rooms and sight of an equally old fort, Patan Mahal takes you back in time. Having opened it doors to the public a couple of years back, Patan Mahal has been drawing guests in large numbers. A relaxing holiday amidst nature, one can take walks in the neighbouring village or trek up to the ancestral fort.
Patan Mahal, Neem Ka Thana
Phone: 01574-282311/411/511
Distance from Delhi: 180kms
Estimated travel time: 4hrs
Birding at Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary
Easily accessible through the Yamuna Expressway, Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, officially known as the Keoladeo National Park, is a great place for birding and also for nature walks. You can also take bicycles on rent to tour this 22sq km park. Home to over 300 bird species, the sanctuary is inhabited with many migratory birds in the winter months.
Keoladeo National Park, Bharatpur
Phone: 05644 222777
Distance from Delhi: 180km
Estimated travel time: 4hrs
Relax by the pool at Pataudi Palace
A short drive from Gurgaon, and a little detour from the main highway will take you to the Pataudi Palace. Crossing paddy fields and entering through the village road you reach this magnificent colonial building designed by Robert Tor Russell, the man who also designed Connaught Place in Delhi. After a scrumptious meal served here you can relax by the pool. Your evening tea too can be served by the poolside under the lush green trees.
Pataudi Palace, Near Manesar
Phone: 09595333333
Distance from Delhi: 70kms
Estimated travel time: 2hrs
Eco Tour at Corbett village, Kaladhungi
The winter home of the legendary hunter of maneaters Jim Corbett, this village surrounded by forests is an ideal place for eco tourism. There are heritage and forest walks starting from Corbett’s cottage which is now a museum besides options for village stays. Though Kaladhungi tour can be done in a day if you start early, it is advisable to stay for a night so that you can relax and savour more.
Phone: 094113 24204
Distance from Delhi: 280kms
Estimated travel time: 7hrs
So what are you waiting for, pack your bag and hit the roads leaving the city far behind. Enjoy these places, take a walk, relish the local food, take in the fresh air and come back refreshed, all in a day!
By Florina Soren.
