Top offbeat destinations near Delhi: Bucket-list for Post-Covid World

The world is a beautiful place! Once we are through these hard times, our heart and soul would call for a break . What’s better than exploring new destinations, that too in the mountains ? In the hope that the pandemic ends with a blink,  let’s check out these best offbeat destinations near Delhi.

Pangot, Nainital District, Uttrakhand

The Himalayan resort town in the Kumaon region Nainital, with a setting of a beautiful emerald green lake has been much explored. It remains the most favourite Tourist destination even yet. But not many know of the quaint village Pangot tucked away close to Nainital at about a distance of 15 kms. Accessible by a drive, this quaint village is a peaceful offbeat place in Nainital district. Passing through the Chenna Peak Range via Snow View Point and Kilbury, the drive is fantastic, making the proverb hold true “ it’s not just about the destination but the journey as well” Every bit of this journey is magical.

The landscape with elegant pine and deodar trees is nothing less than is day-dream. Picterque, serene and rich flora, fauna here makes you question the worth of hustle bustle of a city life. Cities are a survival but mountains remain life. 

It’s a matter of luck that Delhi Is situated close to such beautiful himayaln town, offering a quick espace whenever required. Pangot is one such destination that awaits you and so do the exotic birds here. A perfect destination for bird watchers and day-dreamers, photographers and enthusiastic explorers. 

This hamlet becomes an exciting hub for photography enthusiasts when hundreds of different species of birds flock here in the upper Himalayas for a temporary stay. Though the Winters witness more exotic birds, summers also see some variety of local birds. Some of them being, Rufous-bellied Woodpecker, Spotted Forktail, Himalayan Griffon and Khalij pheasant. It’s recorded to have 500 brides who take an adobe here

If you carry a little bit of luck, spotting mammals like yellow-throated Himalayan Marten, Sambhar, Himalayan Goral, Leopard Cat, Serow, Wild Boar, Red Fox wouldn’t be difficult either. 

Amidst this wilderness, you can’t ask for anything more and it’s not difficult to find hotels and stays. Pangot offers some good homestays and comfortable hotels offered. If you are much of a traveller or a trekker, a few hiking and trekking trails are a good bet too. The lush green forest trail leads to destinations like Naina Peak and  Corbett National Park. 

How to Reach ?

Self-drive:  Put google maps into some action and reach here within 7-8 hours. It’ s quite easy to navigate.

Rail: Kathgodam  railway station is about 20 km away from Pangot. From here, a taxi is the best way. You can also catch public transport like buses.

Road: It’s a well connected destination from all parts of the State. From Delhi, Anand Vihar , catch a bus till Haldwani, Kathgodam or Ramnagar From all these main town, you can easily find taxis and buses

Air: PantNagar Airport is the closest airport at about 58 kms. You can book a cab from the airport.

Find Best Hotels In Pangot Nanital

Lansdowne, Pauri, Uttrakhand

Uttarakhand doesn’t fall short of touristy hills stations and offbeat attractions alike. Lansdowne, a quaint hilly adobe at a distance of 258 km from Delhi is low altitude terrain, making it a perfect spot for a quick family vacation.

The town got the name from then Viceroy of India, Lord Lansdowne and features buildings of the colonial era. With oak and pine forest, the town also has beautiful picnic spots like Bhulla Lake. The lake and the surrounding area is well-kept and consistently maintained by the Indian army. When it comes to keep-up the natural beauty, our armed forces do the best job. Though the lake is not as huge as Nainital, Bhulla lake is tranquil and offers boating as well.

Another good spot is Tip N Top, also commonly pronounced as Tiffin top amongst the locals. This is the highest point of Lansdowne, just a km away from the town. Enjoy some panoramic views of the city and forest range with Himalaya as a setting from here. Heaven reincarnate on Earth is the exact comparison for this attraction. You can visit the St. John’s Church and Darwar Singh Regimental Museum. If you are up for a little adventure, a jungle safari  would be a good bet too. 

There’s also some eye-widening surprise for you waiting at the spot Bheem Pakora. Accessible via small  trek downhill via a slightly rough path, the two big stones  perfectly balanced on each other will leave you amazed. The stone can be moved with a finger but it never falls down.

Comfortable hotels and stays and good restaurants are easily available.

How to reach?

Road- Taking the road is the best option. It’s only a 5 hours drive either by a bus or a car.

Find Best Hotels In Pauri Garhwal Lansdowne

Chakrata, Uttarakhand

One destination but multiple attractions to cherish. Situated very close to the Capital State of Uttarakhand, Chakrata offers coniferous forests, exciting treks, caves and ancient temples.  Beautifully located within the sun-kissed Himalayas is secluded with the highest peak an experience that will be soul-stirring. Not so popular, the hill station  offers a tranquil trip and is a paradise especially for backpackers. There are gorgeous waterfalls, not just one but ample of them but Tiger falls is one of the best pens. Looking upon the Yamuna valley, the hidden gem once used to be a hamlet of Jaunsari tribe.  The place just lets you be ! It offers a calming break from the hustle bustle  of a city.

The magnificent mountain range offers an exotic experience, including the mountain climbing at Kharamba Peak along with some treks passing through the gorgeous waterfalls that entice the ebay of your souls. If you want to go for a slightly  less-adventurous experience, village walks and camping are quite a deal as well.  For the adventurous folks, Mundali is an ideal place for Skiing, and some cave-moments and ancient temple exploration.

Chakrata also had some hidden picnic spots, one of them is Koti-Kanasar, a picturesque location located at a distance of 26kms. Amidst the lush green forest and green meadow, enjoy a calming experience.  Ram Tal Garden would also make for a perfect picnic spot. Be within the lap of nature, you deserve the love!

How to reach?

AirJolly Grant Airport, Dehradun airport,  46 kms from Chakrata. From the airport, it’s easy to get taxis. 

Rail- Delhi to Dehradun Railways are quite convenient as well.

Road– Since it’s 321.4 kms, driving to Chakrata is an easy one. 

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Rebecca John

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