Republic Day Week: Top weekend getaways from Delhi and Mumbai

We bring you the most popular destinations for weekend getaways from Delhi and Mumbai.

FROM DELHI

JAIPUR, RAJASTHAN

Visitors at the Jaipur Literature Festival on Thursday. Jhumpa Lahiri (inset).

All roads are leading to Jaipur this month, as Zee Jaipur Literature Festival is on. The literary enthusiasts who are a regular at the fest, might find the place a tad over-crowded due to weekend rush.

Tourist attractions: Amer Fort, Jaigarh fort, City Palace, Hawa Mahal

Distance from Delhi: 269 km

“The hustle and bustle of urban life seems to be driving Indians to take frequent, short vacations to recharge their batteries. People are travelling using different modes of transport as well, with self driven road trips becoming extremely popular,” says Mr SharatDhall, President, Yatra.com

PITHORAGARH, UTTARANCHAL

The valley situated in Pithoragarh, Uttaranchal, flanked by four hills – Chandak, Dhwaj, Thal Kedar and Kundar is spellbounding to say the least. It is a must-visit for both nature lovers and adventure freaks.

“While older generation would go for places like Nainital, Shimla, newer generation is more adventurous. They will go to a place with a reason, and not to relax. That influences their choice for travelling,” says Rajji Rai, Swift Travel.

Distance from Delhi: 503 km

Tourist attractions: Chandak, Dhwaj temple

KULLU MANALI, HIMACHAL PRADESH

It is a preferred choice for back-packers right now because of snowfall

Situated on the banks of Beas River, Manali is 50 Kms away from Kullu. “It is a preferred choice for back-packers right now because of snowfall,” says Mr Karan Anand—Head, relationships, Cox & Kings Ltd. Manali is also famous for camping, river-rafting and paragliding.

Tourist attractions: Hadinmba Temple, Vashisth Temple, Rohtang pass and Solang Valley

FROM MUMBAI

GOA

The serene Goa Source: Sandip Hor

Popular for its beaches, seafood, and churches, Goa is a destination that suits everyone. Be it shopping, adventure sports or simply chilling out, there’s simply no place like Goa.

Distance from Mumbai: 604 Km

Tourist attractions: Candolim Beach, Miramar Beach, Majorda Beach, Mobor Beach, Arvalem Waterfalls, Arvalem Caves

LONAVALA

This is a hill station which is a quick getaway from Mumbai. It is about 64 km away from the city of Pune, 96 kilometres (60 mi) from the city of Mumbai.

Distance from Mumbai: 96 km

Tourist attractions: Rajmachi Point, Ryewood Park & Shivaji Udyan, Valvan Dam, Lonavla Lake, Wax Museum, Shooting Point

MAHABALESHWAR
Mahabaleshwar was the summer capital of Bombay province during the British Raj. It basically has three villages: Malcolm Peth, Old “Kshetra” Mahabaleshwar and part of the Shindola village.

Distance from Mumbai: 285 km

Tourist attractions: Arthur’s Seat, Kate’s Point, Wilson Point, 3 Monkey Point