As the weekend draws near, the urge to break free from our hectic routines grows stronger. While the usual ideas of a relaxed getaway at a nearby resort or a quick day outing sound tempting, why not sprinkle a bit of adventure into your plans? How about the idea of planning for a weekend trek from Delhi? Sounds exciting, right?
Just a few hours away from Delhi, the beautiful states of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand are like a playground for trekking enthusiasts. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned hiker, the easy-to-moderate treks near Delhi promise an adventurous and fun weekend. And it’s not just about the trek, it is the complete experience of camping under a sky full of stars, swapping stories by a warm, crackling bonfire that awaits. That sounds like a weekend trip to look forward to, right?
- Nag Tibba Trek, Uttarakhand
- Chopta Chandrashila Trek
- Dayara Bugyal Trek
- Dodital Trek, Uttarakhand
- Bedni Bugyal Trek, Uttarakhand
- Kedarkantha Trek, Uttarakhand
- Auli Gorson Bugyal Trek, Uttarakhand
- Beas Kund Trek, Himachal
- Bhrigu Lake Trek, Himachal
- Hampta Circle Trek, Himachal
- Kareri Lake Trek, Himachal
- Triund Trek, Himachal
- Bhadraj Hill Trek, Uttarakhand
- Benog Tibba Trek, Uttarakhand
Nag Tibba Trek, Uttarakhand
- Distance from Delhi: 347 km
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Best Time for Trek: Year-round, except July and August
- Altitude: 10,000 ft
- How to Reach: Travel to Dehradun via interstate or Volvo bus, or by train from Delhi. From Dehradun, you can take a shared bus, shared taxi, or private cab to Mussoorie. From there, hire a jeep or taxi to Pantwari or Devalsari.
Considered one of the best weekend treks from Delhi, the Nag Tibba Trek near Mussoorie is a trekker’s delight. Situated at nearly 10,000 ft above sea level, Nag Tibba, or the ‘Serpent’s Peak,’ is the highest peak in the Nag Tibba range of the Garhwal Himalayas. The trek takes you through lush forests of oak and deodar. Upon reaching the summit, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Bandarpunch Peak, Kalanag Peak, Swargarohini Peak, Kedarnath Peak, and the Gangotri group of peaks.
The Nag Tibba summit can be reached via two main routes:
Pantwari Route: The shortest and most popular route begins at Pantwari village, located 85 km from Dehradun. Due to the complexity of the trail, hiring a guide is recommended. From Pantwari, you will reach the Nag Tibba base camp by late afternoon, where you can set up camp for the night before continuing to the summit the next morning. Overnight camping requires permission from the forest office in Mussoorie.
Devalsari Route: The second route starts from Devalsari, a small village 45 km from Mussoorie. This route covers a distance of approximately 10 km to reach the Nag Tibba peak. As you trek through winding trails, you’ll witness stunning views of the Pir Panjal range, Dhauladhar ranges, and Doon Valley. An overnight stay can be arranged either at the forest guesthouse or in a camp, both of which require prior permission from the forest office in Mussoorie.
Also Read: Best Winter Treks in Uttarakhand
Chopta Chandrashila Trek
- Distance from Delhi: 480 km
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Best Time for Trek: Year-round, except July and August
- Altitude: 13,415 ft
- How to Reach: Travel to Haridwar or Rishikesh via interstate or Volvo bus, or by train from Delhi. From there, you can take a shared bus, shared taxi, or private cab to Chopta.
The Chopta Chandrashila Trek is a perfect weekend getaway from Delhi, offering a refreshing break from the monotony of daily life. The trek begins in the enchanting village of Chopta, located approximately 450 km from Delhi. Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand, Chopta captivates visitors with its lush landscapes, vibrant pink and red rhododendron blooms, and dense forests of deodar and oak.
As you begin your ascent to Chandrashila Peak, the wilderness of thick rhododendron forests, the crisp mountain air, and the breathtaking vistas along the trail make for an invigorating experience. After trekking around 3 km, your first stop is the sacred Tungnath Temple, one of the five Panch Kedar temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. After a short break at the temple, you can resume your journey to the Chandrashila summit.
Once you reach the top, you’ll be awestruck by the stunning panoramic views of Nanda Devi Peak, Kedar Peak, Chaukhamba Peak, and other majestic Himalayan ranges.
Also Read: Best Summer Treks in Uttarakhand
Dayara Bugyal Trek
- Distance from Delhi: 448 km
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Best Time for Trek: Year-round, except July and August
- Altitude: 12,000 ft
- How to Reach: Travel to Haridwar or Rishikesh via interstate or Volvo bus, or by train from Delhi. From there, you can take a shared bus, shared taxi, or private cab to Uttarkashi or Barsu.
Dayara Bugyal is one of the most stunning high-altitude alpine meadows in India, surrounded by the snow-covered Garhwal Himalayan peaks of Bhagirathi, Bandarpunch, Gangotri, and Kala Nag. With its breathtaking scenic beauty, this meadow attracts trekkers and adventure enthusiasts from across the country. Due to its proximity to Delhi, the Dayara Bugyal Trek serves as a perfect weekend adventure destination for people living in the Delhi-NCR region.
Barsu Village, near Uttarkashi in Uttarakhand, acts as the base camp for this trek. The scenic trails take you through dense rhododendron forests and past the serene Barnala Tal, eventually opening up to the vast, lush green expanse of Dayara Bugyal. Campsites can be set up at Barnala Meadows, a few meters before Barnala Tal, or near the shepherd huts, about a kilometer before Dayara Bugyal. During the summer, trekkers can extend their journey to Bakaria Top, the highest point in the region.
During winter, Dayara Bugyal transforms into a skier’s paradise, with its powder-laden slopes attracting ski enthusiasts from nearby regions for thrilling weekend adventures.
Also Read: Top Climbing Peaks in Uttarakhand
Dodital Trek, Uttarakhand
- Distance from Delhi: 450 km
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
- Best Time for Trek: Year-round, except July and August
- Altitude: 13,600 ft
- How to Reach: Travel to Haridwar or Rishikesh via interstate or Volvo bus, or by train from Delhi. From there, you can take a shared bus, shared taxi, or private cab to Uttarkashi or Sangam Chatti.
Surrounded by dense oak, pine, and rhododendron forests, Dodital, or Dodi Lake, is one of the most stunning high-altitude freshwater lakes in Uttarakhand, nestled amid the towering Himalayan peaks. The lake’s serene and tranquil setting makes it an ideal weekend getaway for adventure enthusiasts and trekkers. According to Indian mythology, Dodital holds great religious significance as the birthplace of Lord Ganesha. A beautiful Ganesha temple near the lake attracts pilgrims throughout the year.
The trek to Dodital begins at Sangam Chatti, a small hamlet near Uttarkashi. The trail takes you through lush oak, deodar, and rhododendron forests, offering mesmerizing views of sparkling streams, deep gorges, lush valleys, and snow-capped Himalayan peaks. Along the way, you can spot a variety of colorful Himalayan birds, including the Himalayan Tree Pie, Whistling Thrush, Himalayan Babbler, and Red-Billed Blue Magpie, making the trek even more exciting.
Upon reaching Dodital, take in the peaceful surroundings and visit the Ganesha Temple. For those seeking an extended adventure, trek an additional 2,500 ft to Darwa Top, where breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges await—truly an experience beyond words.
Also Read: Top Snow Tourist Places in Uttarakhand
Bedni Bugyal Trek, Uttarakhand
- Distance from Delhi: 500 km
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Best Time for Trek: April to November
- Altitude: 11,000 ft
- How to Reach: Travel to Haridwar or Rishikesh via interstate or Volvo bus, or by train from Delhi. From there, you can take a shared bus, shared taxi, or private cab to Loharjung.
Bedni Bugyal, located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, is a breathtaking high-altitude alpine meadow in India. Its lush green slopes, surrounded by dense conifer forests and majestic Garhwal Himalayan peaks, make it one of the most sought-after adventure destinations near Delhi.
The trek to Bedni Bugyal begins from Loharjung Pass, winding through oak and rhododendron forests before reaching the charming Didina Village. Here, trekkers can opt for an overnight stay in tents or homestays. The journey from Didina Village to Ali Bugyal involves a steep climb through dense oak forests. However, the effort is well rewarded as you step into the vast expanse of Ali Bugyal, a stunningly beautiful meadow. From here, the trail descends toward Bedni Bugyal.
The magical beauty of Bedni Bugyal is truly mesmerizing, offering breathtaking views of Trishul Parvat and Nanda Ghunti in the Himalayas. The Bedni Kund, a pristine alpine lake, reflects the snow-capped peaks, adding to the enchanting charm of this picturesque meadow.
Also Read: Best Places to Visit in Uttarakhand
Kedarkantha Trek, Uttarakhand
- Distance from Delhi: 380 km
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Best Time for the Trek: Year-round, except July & August
- Altitude: 12,500 ft
- How to Reach: Travel to Dehradun by interstate or Volvo bus, train, or flight from Delhi. From Dehradun, you can take a shared bus, shared taxi, or private cab to Sankri village.
Offering stunning views of a vast white landscape, surrounded by towering pines and snow-covered Himalayan peaks, Kedarkantha is the perfect weekend getaway for nature lovers and trekking enthusiasts.
The Kedarkantha Trek begins at Sankri Village near Dehradun, winding through dense pine forests and sparkling mountain streams before leading to the scenic Juda ka Talab. An overnight camp stay by the lake, encircled by tall pines, adds an extra thrill to the adventure. From Juda ka Talab, the trail ascends to the Kedarkantha base, passing through picturesque meadows dotted with shepherd log huts.
As you reach the Kedarkantha base, breathtaking panoramic views of Bandarpoonch, Swargarohini, Kalanag, and Ranglana peaks welcome you. Spending the night in a snow-covered campsite under a starlit sky, surrounded by towering pines, is an unforgettable experience.
Start your final ascent to the Kedarkantha Summit early in the morning and embrace the unparalleled beauty of nature as you reach the pinnacle of your trek.
Also Read: Janak Tal Trek in Uttarakhand
Auli Gorson Bugyal Trek, Uttarakhand
- Distance from Delhi: 500 km
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Best Time for Trek: Year-round, except July and August
- Altitude: 10,000 ft
- How to Reach: Travel to Haridwar or Rishikesh by interstate or Volvo bus, or by train from Delhi. From there, take a shared bus, shared taxi, or private cab to Joshimath. From Joshimath, you can either take a taxi or a ropeway to reach Auli.
Auli is renowned as a skier’s paradise in India, with its powder-laden slopes attracting winter sports enthusiasts. However, its charm extends beyond winter, as summer transforms the landscape into a lush green meadow blooming with vibrant flowers.
The breathtaking beauty of Auli, combined with spectacular views of towering Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi, Mana Parvat, Haathi-Ghodi Parvat, Neelkanth, Trishul, and Dunagiri, makes it an ideal holiday destination. Adding to its appeal is the abundance of trekking trails that cater to different skill levels, making Auli Gorson Bugyal one of the best weekend trekking destinations from Delhi.
Among the most popular treks starting from Auli is the Gorson Bugyal Trek, leading to the mesmerizing Gorson meadow nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas. The trek is even more captivating in winter, as easy yet scenic trails wind through oak and conifer forests, accompanied by the fresh mountain air and breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges. This refreshing journey offers a perfect escape from the chaos of daily life, leaving trekkers rejuvenated and inspired.
Also Read: Top Hill Destinations in Uttarakhand
Beas Kund Trek, Himachal
- Distance from Delhi: 500 km
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
- Best Time for the Trek: May to October
- Altitude: 12,000 ft
- How to Reach: Travel from Delhi to Manali by interstate or Volvo bus, then take a jeep, taxi, or local bus to Solang Nala.
Beas Kund is a stunning high-altitude alpine lake nestled in the Kullu-Manali valley of Himachal Pradesh. According to mythological legends, Sage Vyas used to bathe in its sacred waters, and it is from here that the Beas River originates.
Renowned as one of the most scenic short treks in Himachal Pradesh, the Beas Kund Trek takes you through the lush green meadows of Solang Valley and Bakarthach. Along the way, you’ll witness mesmerizing glaciers, crystal-clear mountain streams, and breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks like Indrasan and Deo Tibba.
Upon reaching Beas Kund, you’ll be greeted by panoramic vistas of the Pir Panjal range, its snow-covered peaks reflecting in the pristine blue waters of the holy pond. The landscape, painted in the ever-changing hues of nature, offers an unparalleled sense of serenity and tranquility, making this trek a truly unforgettable experience.
Also Read: Best Places to Visit in Himachal
Bhrigu Lake Trek, Himachal
- Distance from Delhi: 500 km
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
- Best Time for Trek: May to October
- Altitude: 14,000 ft
- How to Reach: Travel from Delhi to Manali by interstate or Volvo bus, then take a private taxi to Gulaba.
Nestled amidst the towering mountains of the Kullu-Manali region in Himachal Pradesh, Bhrigu Lake is a breathtaking high-altitude alpine lake. Located east of Rohtang Pass, the lake is named after Sage Bhrigu, who, according to mythological legends, meditated here.
One of the most popular weekend treks from Delhi, the Bhrigu Lake Trek offers a refreshing escape into the lap of nature. The journey begins from Gulaba, a quaint village along the Manali-Rohtang route. As you traverse the scenic trails lined with cedar, birch, and silver oak trees, you’ll be mesmerized by lush green meadows dotted with vibrant alpine flowers, sparkling rivulets, apple orchards, and the majestic Hanuman Tibba and Seven Sisters Peaks.
Upon reaching Bhrigu Lake, you’ll be spellbound by the breathtaking views of the snow-capped Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal ranges, cradling the turquoise-blue lake in their lap. During winter, the entire landscape transforms into a mesmerizing white wonderland, with the sun painting the snowy expanse in ever-changing hues.
Also Read: Best Snow Tourist Places in Himachal
Hampta Circle Trek, Himachal
- Distance from Delhi: 535 km
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
- Best Time for the Trek: May to October
- Altitude: 14,000 ft
- How to Reach: Travel from Delhi to Manali by interstate or Volvo bus, then take a short drive to Jagatsukh village.
A popular weekend trek for Delhiites, the Hampta Circle Trek starts from Jagatsukh Village, near Manali, and takes you through dense forests of pine and fir, lush green alpine meadows, milky white streams, and melting glaciers in a circular route—hence the name “Circle Trek.”
Breathtaking views of the Kullu Valley, the distant Dhauladhar ranges, fluffy clouds hovering above, and deep gorges captivate trekkers with their unmatched beauty and tranquil charm as they traverse the picturesque Himalayan trails leading up to Hampta Pass.
This trek serves as a perfect escape for those seeking peace and solitude away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Also Read: Top Winter Treks in Himachal Pradesh
Kareri Lake Trek, Himachal
- Distance from Delhi: 500 km
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Best Time for Trek: April to November
- Altitude: 9,700 ft.
- How to Reach: Travel from Delhi to Dharamshala/Pathankot by interstate bus, Volvo, or train, then take a local bus or shared jeep to Ghera Village.
Kareri Lake is a small glacial lake nestled between the Dhauladhar ranges in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh. The tranquil surroundings and scenic landscapes of this picturesque lake attract hundreds of trekkers and adventure seekers from across India.
Owing to its close proximity to Delhi, the Kareri Lake Trek is an ideal weekend adventure getaway for travelers from the Delhi-NCR region. The trek usually begins at Ghera Village in Dharamshala, leading through secluded meadows, lush forests, winding passes, and gushing streams.
As you reach the shimmering Kareri Lake, surrounded by lush green meadows and drifting clouds, you’ll feel as if nature has cast its magical spell, making you want to stay in this serene paradise forever.
Also Read: Best Summer Treks in Himachal
Triund Trek, Himachal
- Distance from Delhi: 476 km
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
- Best Time for the Trek: March to May and September to December
- Altitude: 9,500 ft.
- How to Reach: Travel from Delhi to Dharamshala/Pathankot by interstate bus, Volvo, or train, then take a local bus or shared taxi to McLeodganj.
Nestled in the laps of the Dhauladhar ranges in Dharamshala, Triund offers breathtaking views of snow-covered peaks and is a popular destination for travel and adventure enthusiasts from across the country.
Trekking to Triund provides an awe-inspiring experience, showcasing nature’s exquisite beauty. The trek starts from McLeodganj, passing through the quaint village of Dharamkot and forests of oak and deodar along the way. As you finally reach Triund, you’ll be greeted with panoramic views of the Dhauladhar ranges and the valleys of Bhagsu, Kangra, and Dharamshala.
Also Read: Best Places to Visit in Dharamashala Himachal
Bhadraj Hill Trek, Uttarakhand
- Distance from Delhi: 290 km
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Best Time for Trek: April to November
- Altitude: 7,600 ft./2,200 m
- How to Reach: Delhi to Dehradun by bus, train, or flight, then to Mussoorie by taxi or local transport, and further to Library End, the trek’s starting point.
At an elevation of over 2,200 meters (7,218 feet), the Bhadraj Hill Trek provides a rejuvenating getaway into nature and spirituality close to Mussoorie. This 10-kilometer-long trek is easy, making it ideal for beginners or trekkers looking for a short adventure over one or two days.
Beginning at Mussoorie’s “Library End,” the trail winds past deep oak wood forest, attractive Victorian-style houses, and the quaint “Milkman’s Village” of Dudhli, which is well-known for providing fresh milk to Mussoorie every day thus also referred frequently as the “Milkman’s Trail.” The route from ‘Cloud End Hotel’ to Dudhli is a scenic downhill walk through forests, offering trekkers stunning views of the Himalayas.
An overnight camp at Dudhli is a treat, providing a serene experience under a starry sky. The final stretch to the ‘Bhadraj Temple’ involves a mix of flat and steep trails, leading through expansive grasslands with views of the Bandarpoonch and Swargarohini ranges. The temple, dedicated to Lord Balbhadra, is a spiritual haven, especially during the grand fair held every August. The trek’s alternative descent to Koti adds an adventurous twist, ideal for those with a pre-arranged vehicle.
Also Read: Best Places to Visit in Mussoorie
Benog Tibba Trek, Uttarakhand
- Distance from Delhi: 290 km
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Best Time for Trek: Throughout the year (except during heavy monsoon)
- Altitude: 2,250 m/7,382 ft
- How to Reach: Delhi to Dehradun by train, bus, or flight, then to Mussoorie by road. The trek starts from Cloud End Forest Resort in Mussoorie.
Just six hours away from Delhi, the Benog Tibba Trek could be a perfect weekend trek for you to regain the spark you were missing during those long working hours on weekdays. The trek will take you through the serene Mussoorie Wildlife Sanctuary, established in 1993 and renowned for its rare Mountain Quail and diverse wildlife.
The 10-kilometer-long raw adventure of Benog Tibba Trek begins at the Cloud End Forest Resort, leading trekkers through dense forests of pine, rhododendron, oak, and walnut trees. The shaded trails not only provide respite from the sun but also offer opportunities to spot Himalayan goats, flying squirrels, langurs, and, with a bit of luck, the elusive Mountain Quail.
As the forest canopy opens up, trekkers are greeted with sweeping views of the Yamuna Valley, where terraced farms and villages appear like a vibrant quilt draped over the hills. The trek’s highlight is the 360-degree panorama from the summit, encompassing the Doon Valley, Yamuna, and Assan Barrage, Mussoorie’s hidden sides, and the majestic Garhwal Himalayan peaks, including Kalanag, Swargarohini, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and even the distant Trishul and Nanda Devi. The trek culminates at the Jwala Devi Temple.
Also Read: Top Destinations to Visit in Garhwal Region
Hiking not only satiates your adventurous thirst but also brings you closer to Mother Nature. The scenic landscapes and natural artistry help you forget all your worries, leaving you refreshed and rejuvenated to face the challenges of work life. Hopefully, the above list of trekking options inspires you to plan a fun-filled and adventurous weekend trip with your family.
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About the author
Having an experience of more than 16 yrs in the Himalayas, Arun is the main driving force & mentor at the Peak Adventure Tours, a leading adventure travel agency in India offers trekking tours in Indian Himalayas including Nepal, Bhutan & Tibet. A long history with exceptional experiences he is the “Marathon Man” in the field of adventure. Today Arun looks after the Peak Adventure and shapes & designs the venture of the organization. He is contributing to this blog as a regular guest author.
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