28 Enthralling Tourist Places Near Delhi Within 500 kms

Delhi has some of the best tourist landmarks in India. But if you leave Delhi, and drive outskirts, the sheer number of attractions that you will come across will leave you speechless. Not only are these the most famous tourist destinations in India, but gives you an opportunity to relax and unwind after a tiresome week in Delhi.

Give yourself a break and visit these tourist places near Delhi within 500 kms. They are the best weekend getaway from Delhi and are the best for going on a holiday with friends and family.

28 of the Most Exciting Tourist Places Near Delhi Within 500 kms

1. Vrindavan

An extremely religious town close to Delhi, Vrindavan is associated with Lord Krishna. Vrindavan is located in Uttar Pradesh on the banks of river Yamuna. The town has a number of places where Lord Krishna spent much of his teenage years.

The place is sprinkled with innumerable temples, where lakhs of visitors pray to the Lord and seek his blessings. Religious festivals like Janmashtami, Holi and Radhashtami are celebrated with colours and great religious fervour. Vrindavan is an ideal religious town to visit from Delhi.

• Distance from Delhi: 142 km.
• Major Attractions: Govind Dev Temple, Keshi Ghat, Bankey Bihari Temple, ISKCON Temple, Shahji Temple, Ranganathaji Temple, Madan Mohan Temple, Radha Vallabha Temple, Pagal Baba Temple, Radha Damodara Temple, Jaipur Temple, Jugal Kishore Temple, Vrindavan Parikrama.

2. Mathura

Located in Uttar Pradesh, Mathura has a huge religious and spiritual significance. It is the birthplace of Lord Krishna and has many legends, myths and places associated with him. It has numerous temples, ghats, kunds, and shrines, which are visited by devotees every day.

Religious Hindu festivals like Janmashtami and Holi are celebrated with colourful festivities and are among the most attractive events in Mathura. It is just a few hours’ drives from Agra, and together with Vrindavan, it is a great holiday destination from Delhi.

• Distance from Delhi: 147 km.
• Major Attractions: Krishna Janma Bhoomi Mandir, Dwarkadhish Temple, Jama Masjid, Kusum Sarovar, Radha Kund, Kans Qila, Mathura Museum, Govardhan Hill, Rangbhoomi, Vishram Ghat, Potara Kund, Shiva Temple, Gita Mandir.

3. Alwar

The Rajput kingdom of Alwar is in Rajasthan. Alwar is surrounded by the Aravalli range and its rocky terrain and forests are the ideal setting for beautiful palaces and imposing forts, which are among the many marvels of the Rajput rulers who ruled in this region.

It is one of the oldest cities in Rajasthan and bears the rich legacy of Rajputana pride, culture and heritage. But Alwar, today is most famous for Sariska Tiger Reserve and the mysterious ghost town of Bhangarh. If you are interested in culture, then Alwar is your perfect destination from Delhi.

• Distance from Delhi: 164 km.
• Major Attractions: Sariska Tiger Reserve, City Palace, Siliserh Lake & Palace, Neemrana Fort Palace, Moosi Maharani ki Chhatri, Bala Quila, Jagannath Temple, Bhangarh Fort, Fairy Queen, Karni Mata Temple, Kesroli Hill Fort, Fateh Jung Gumbad, Purjan Vihar, Talvrakash, Bhartrihari Temple, Neemrana Baori.

4. Bharatpur

Situated in Rajasthan, Bharatpur is most famous for Keoladeo Ghana National Park, a bird paradise that ranks among the important national parks of India. The swampy wetlands of the region are home to a variety of birds like warblers, bee-eaters, quails, hornbills, eagles and others.

It also attracts migratory birds from other countries to come here, like Siberian Crane, Geese, Painted Storks and others. Besides, there are large forts and temples in Bharatpur.

Since Bharatpur is within easy reach of the Golden Triangle tourist cities of Delhi and Jaipur, it is easy to find connectivity to reach Bharatpur.

• Distance from Delhi: 182 km.
• Major Attractions: Lohagarh Fort, Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Ganga Maharani Temple, Banke Bihari Temple, Laxmana Temple.

5. Haridwar

One of the most religious places of the Hindus is Haridwar in Uttarakhand. Situated on the river Ganges, it is one of the most important places of pilgrimage for the Hindus. It is believed that bathing in the holy waters of the Ganges in Haridwar washes away one’s sins. It is also in Haridwar that the last rites of the dead are performed and the ashes washed away in the Ganges.

Haridwar is the place where the Kumbh Mela takes place which is visited by millions of devotees from all over the world. It is a perfect holiday destination from Delhi.

• Distance from Delhi: 212 km.
• Major Attractions: Har Ki Pauri, Bharat Mata Temple, Chandi Devi Temple, Bara Bazaar, Bhimgoda Kund/Tank, Daksha Mahadev Temple, Mansa Devi Temple, Kanva Rishi Ashram, Sapt Rishi Ashram or Sapt Sarovar, Shantikunj, Patanjali Yog Peeth, Chilla Wildlife Sanctuary, Vishnu Ghat.

6. Rishikesh

One of the holiest towns of India, Rishikesh in Uttarakhand is nested in the foothills of the Himalayas. The River Ganges flows through Rishikesh. It has many yoga ashrams where yoga is taught to students.

It is also a delight for adventure seekers, as many adventure sports can be done here like river rafting, camping, trekking, bungee jumping, kayaking, rappelling, mountain biking besides many others. Rishikesh is also close to other religious centres like Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamnotri. Hardwar is also quite close to Rishikesh.

• Distance from Delhi: 232 km.
• Major Attractions: Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Laxman Jhula, The Beatles Ashram. Swarg Ashram, Parmarth Niketan, Triveni Ghat, Ram Jhula, Kaudiyala, Byasi, Muni ki Reti, Rishikund, Bharat Mandir, Vashistha Cave.

7. Agra

Famous for the Taj Mahal, Agra is a historic city near Delhi. Located in Uttar Pradesh, it was built on the banks of river Yamuna. It’s a stunning example of the magnificent Mughal architecture, art and culture. It has some of the most famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India.

Many dynasties, who ruled Delhi and Agra, left their relics in the form of magnificent landmarks, archaeological monuments, lush green gardens, colossal forts and its rich cuisine. It’s a perfect destination for a road trip from Delhi and a favourite weekend getaway close to Delhi.

• Distance from Delhi: 233 km.
• Major Attractions: Taj Mahal, Red Fort, Mehtab Bagh, Kinari Bazar, Fatehpur Sikri, Tomb of Itimad-Ud-Daulah, Akbar’s Tomb at Sikandra, Jama Masjid, Wildlife SOS.

8. Dehradun

Many know Dehradun as a famous hill station in the foothills of the Himalayas. But Dehradun, apart from being a hill station, is an ancient town where Guru Dronacharya, the teacher of Pandavas and Kauravas in the Mahabharata lived and meditated. Situated in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, Dehradun is one of the most famous hill stations in India.

It has ancient temples, scenic valleys, river streams, and adventure spots which attract tourists from India and foreign countries. Being close to Delhi, and connected with several other tourist places, it is also a favourite weekend getaway from Delhi.

• Distance from Delhi: 245 km.
• Major Attractions: Robber’s Cave, The Museum, Tapkeshwar Temple, Tapovan, Mindrolling Monastery, Sahastradhara, Tiger Falls, Lachhiwala, Malsi Deer Park.

9. Lansdowne

A small hill station in Uttarakhand, Lansdowne is among the most tranquil holiday destinations from Delhi. A favourite summer retreat for the Britishers, Lansdowne is surrounded by breathtaking Himalayan peaks, large oak forests, and serene valleys. Tourists can do many outdoor activities like jungle safari, trekking, hiking, camping, and mountaineering.

• Distance from Delhi: 247 km.
• Major Attractions: Bhulla Tal, Darwan Singh Museum, Tip N Top Viewpoint, Bhim Pakora. Snow Viewpoint, Hawaghar, Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple, War Memorial, St John’s Church, Kalagarh Tiger Reserve, St Mary’s Church, Garhwali Mess, Durga Devi Temple.

10. Jim Corbett National Park

Easily ranked among the best wildlife reserves of India, Corbett National Park is named after the famous hunter and naturalist, Jim Corbett. For those to want to explore wildlife in its natural habitat, it is a perfect destination and also an ideal getaway from Delhi. The park is home to the Royal Bengal Tiger, and several other animals and bird species, besides reptiles and snakes.

You can spot such animals like Elephants, Nilgai, Deer, Sambhar, Indian Pangolin, Wild Boar, Sloth Bear, Gharial and many birds like Cormorants, Fish Owl, Storks, Himalayan Vulture, Eagles, Falcons, and many others. Activities like jungle safari, nature photography, rafting can be done here.

• Distance from Delhi: 254 km.
• Major Attractions: Jungle Safari, Corbett Waterfall, Elephant Ride, Dhikala Forest Lodge, Garjia Temple, Corbett Museum, Kosi River, Sitabani, Kalagarh Dam.

11. Chandigarh

The first planned city of India, Chandigarh, is known for its urban design and architecture. Its distinctive style of urban planning makes it stand out from other cities of India.

It is well connected to other cities of India and is a famous tourist city near Delhi. There are many gardens, picnic spots, temples, and other tourist sites in and near Chandigarh that tourists can visit.

• Distance from Delhi: 256 km.
• Major Attractions: Rose Garden, Sukhna Lake, Rock Garden, Pinjore Gardens, Leisure Valley, ChattBir Zoo, Cactus Gardens, Museum and Art Gallery, Fun City, Terraced Garden, Le Corbusier Centre, Japanese Garden, Garden of Fragrance.

12. Jaipur

The ‘Pink City’ of Rajasthan, Jaipur is the symbol of Rajputana royalty and pride. Jaipur has massive forts, royal palaces, temples, gardens, architectural monuments, and museums.

Its cuisine has some iconic foods and flavours. It has an excellent road, rail and air connectivity, which make tourists alight here for going to different parts of Rajasthan.

It’s a paradise for shopping and a delight for those interested in ethnic arts and crafts. With so many attractions and tourist landmarks, it forms a part of the Golden Triangle tourist circuit of North India (Delhi, Agra, Jaipur). It’s an ideal getaway and holiday destination from Delhi.

• Distance from Delhi: 269 km.
• Major Attractions: Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar, Amber Fort, Jaigarh Fort, Nahargarh Fort, City Palace, Birla Temple, Albert Hall, Galtaji Temple, Jal Mahal, Gaitore, Sisodia Rani Palace and Garden, Kanak Vrindavan.

13. Mussoorie

One of the top tourist destinations near Delhi is Mussoorie. This hill station in Uttarakhand is nestled in the foothills of the Garhwal Himalayas and is the best holiday retreat to escape the torrid summers of Delhi. The lush green valleys, deep forests, snow-clad Himalayan mountains make it a favourite place for trekkers and campers.

You can see colonial buildings in Mussoorie and admire its British architecture. There are many temples, shopping malls, sightseeing places, and adventure sports to be done in Mussoorie that you will not get bored even for a minute.

• Distance from Delhi: 271 km.
• Major Attractions: Kempty Falls, Gun Hill, Lal Tibba, Lake Mist, Cloud’s End, Jharipani Falls, Mossy Falls, Bhatta Falls, Mussoorie Lake, Camel’s Back Road, Benog Wildlife Sanctuary, Happy Valley, Sir George Everest’s House Museum, Bhadraj Temple, Tibetan Buddhist Temple.

14. Nainital

Among India’s most popular hill stations, Nainital in Uttarakhand is a perfect holiday destination from Delhi. Situated in Kumaon region, Nainital is a place of unmatched natural beauty, from snow-clad mountain peaks, dense deodar and pine forests, and mystical valleys to sacred temples, hot water springs, and abundant wildlife.

The most famous attraction of Nainital is the mango-shaped Naini Lake in which tourists can have a boat ride. There are a number of trekking paths around Nainital, on which avid trekkers can walk and go through dense forests and unspoiled natural beauty.

• Distance from Delhi: 286 km.
• Major Attractions: Naini Lake, Naini Peak, Tiffin Top, The Mall Road, Snow View Point, Nainital Zoo, Raj Bhawan, Naina Devi Temple, Bhimtal Lake, Eco Cave Gardens, Binayak, Gurney House, Sattal, Hanuman Garhi, Mukteshwar Temple, Kainchi Dham, Sariyatal Lake, Kilbury Bird Sanctuary.

15. Kasauli

This hill station in Himachal Pradesh is a place of awesome natural splendour, from breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, deep forests, charming valleys, snow-clad mountain peaks, and fresh air. It has well-preserved colonial buildings with marvellous gothic architecture and Victorian charm. Kasauli has many tourist sites and secluded spots where honeymoon couples can have a memorable time.

Many adventure activities can be done here like trekking, hiking, bird watching, ice skating, camping, paragliding, golfing and many more. If there was one destination preferred by nature lovers close to Delhi, it has to be Kasauli.

• Distance from Delhi: 286 km.
• Major Attractions: Kasauli Brewery. Christ Church, Sunset Point, The Mall, Monkey Point, Krishna Bhavan Mandir, Gilbert Nature Trail, Shri Baba Balak Nath Temple, Barog, Gurkha Fort, Baptist Church, Gurudwara Shri Guru Nanakji.

16. Chakrata

Located in the Garhwal Himalayas, Chakrata is a hill station in Uttarakhand. Chakrata is bestowed with immense natural beauty like beautiful waterfalls, snow-clad Himalayan peaks, mystical valleys and coniferous forests.

Tourists can go trekking along the forested paths, visit the waterfalls that come in the way, go for adventure sports like river rafting, bird watching, rappelling, rock climbing, photography, horse riding and many others. This hidden gem in Uttarakhand is definitely a place to go for a weekend retreat from Delhi.

• Distance from Delhi: 290 km.
• Major Attractions: Chilmiri Neck. Tiger Falls, Ram Tal Horticulture Garden, Deoban, Budher Caves, Kimona Falls, Moigad Falls, Lakhamandal, Hanol, Kalsi.

17. Mukteshwar

Among the famous hill stations of Uttarakhand, Mukteshwar is one of the best, as it commands the most spectacular panoramic view of the Himalayan mountain ranges. The beauty of Mukteshwar lies in its unspoiled natural beauty and fresh unpolluted air.

Mukteshwar has the ideal climate for tourists and is a perfect holiday destination from Delhi. It’s a place of fruit orchards, green meadows, vast coniferous forests, and breathtaking scenic spots. Adventure activities like rock climbing, trekking, rappelling, can be done here. It has many temples which are visited by many devotees of Lord Shiva.

• Distance from Delhi: 310 km.
• Major Attractions: Mukteshwar Temple, Chauthi ki Jaali, Mukteshwar Inspection Bungalow, Brahmeshwara Temple, Nathuakhan.

18. Sawai Madhopur

This town in Rajasthan is more famous for being the gateway to Ranthambore, one of the finest national parks in India. It’s also a historic town with the famous Ranthambore fortress.

This town in Rajasthan is surrounded by Vindhya and Aravalli mountain ranges and is an excellent place for a holiday retreat from Delhi.

• Distance from Delhi: 349 km.
• Major Attractions: Ranthambore National Park, Ranthambore Fort, Khandar Fort, Chamtkar Temple, Chauth Mata Temple, Surwal Lake, Padam Lake, Jogi Mahal, Malik Talao, Raj Bagh Ruins, Kachida Valley.

19. Gwalior

Immensely cultural and historical, the city of Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh contains a rich legacy of arts, architecture, valour and cuisine. While Gwalior is most famous for the impressive Gwalior Fort, there are other things for which Gwalior is famous. It is the birthplace of Tansen, the celebrated singer in Emperor Akbar’s court.

The many dynasties which ruled over Gwalior left behind their spectacular architecture in the form of forts, palaces, tombs, shrines and gardens. With such rich cultural heritage, Gwalior is a must-visit holiday destination from Delhi.

• Distance from Delhi: 358 km.
• Major Attractions: Gwalior Fort, Sun Temple, Jai Vilas Palace Museum, Tansen Memorial, Tigra Dam, Gujari Mahal Archaeological Museum, Teli Ka Mandir, Moti Mahal, Gwalior Zoo, Saas bahu temple, Tomb of Mohammad Ghaus, Bateshwar.

20. Shimla

One of the most famous hill stations of India, Shimla was once, the summer retreat of the Britishers in India. It’s a place of unmatched natural beauty and charm. The tranquil valleys, snow-covered Himalayan peaks, dense forests, and picturesque locations attract tourists from all over India to visit Shimla.

Tourists can do many adventure activities like skiing, mountain trekking, ice skating, besides visiting temples, shopping for local handicrafts and sightseeing. It is the most famous hill station near Delhi, perfect for holidays.

• Distance from Delhi: 359 km.
• Major Attractions: The Ridge, Jakhoo Hill, Mall Road, Kalka-Shimla Railway, Christ Church, Kufri, Annandale, The Shimla State Museum, Chail, Solan, Naldehra And Shaily Peak, Arki Fort, Tara Devi Temple, Kali Bari Temple, Viceregal Lodge.

21. Almora

Almora is a scenic hill station in Uttarakhand, situated in the Kumaon hills. It is a breathtaking holiday retreat from Delhi. Almora is famous for the captivating scenic views of the Himalayas, unique culture, cuisines, and local handicrafts.

Tourists can visit many temples in Almora and shop for ethnic items and souvenirs. Those who seek some adventure can go trekking, hiking, river rafting, mountain biking and do many other activities.

• Distance from Delhi: 364 km.
• Major Attractions: Kasar Devi Temple, Katarmal Sun Temple, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, Martola, Kalimath, Binsar Zero Point. Chitai Golu Devta Temple, Gobind Vallabh Pant Museum, Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum, Bright End Corner.

22. Ajmer

Ajmer is among the most important pilgrimage sites in India. Located in Rajasthan, Ajmer is known for its Sufi culture and magnificent Muslim architecture. It’s a base for going to Pushkar and is connected to important cities of India with road, rail and air transport.

Khwaja Sharif, the tomb of the great Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti in Ajmer is one of the major pilgrimage sites of Sufi culture in India. It’s also a major religious centre of Jain religion. Ajmer is an ideal weekend getaway from Delhi.

• Distance from Delhi: 394 km.
• Major Attractions: The Ajmer Sharif Dargah, Taragarh Fort, Adhai Din Ka Jhonpda, Abkari Fort and Museum, Anasagar Lake, Soniji ki Nasiyan, Pushkar, Nareli Jain Temple, Prithviraj Smarak, Maharana Pratap Smarak, Buland Darwaza.

23. Pushkar

The very name of Pushkar spells culture, history, and festivals. Such is the magic of this gem of a town in Rajasthan that it has become a tourist hotspot, visited by thousands of tourists worldwide. No doubt, it’s among the culturally rich destinations from Delhi. Pushkar has a deep-rooted mythological connection, and also boasts of spectacular architectural landmarks.

It has the only temple in India, dedicated to Lord Brahma, the creator of the universe, according to Hindu mythology. It has innumerable lakes, temples, bathing ghats, and gardens. But Pushkar is most famous for Pushkar Fair, the annual camel fair, where camels and other cattle are traded.

• Distance from Delhi: 415 km.
• Major Attractions: Pushkar Camel Fair, Pushkar Lake, Jagatpita Brahma Temple, Varah Temple, Savitri Temple, Ramavaikunth Temple, Man Mahal, Rangji Temple, Pushkar Bazaar, Merta City, Mahadeva Temple, Naga Pahar, Rose Garden, Sarafa Bazar, Kishangarh, Yoga Garden.

24. Bikaner

This desert town in Rajasthan is full of golden sand dunes, massive forts, opulent palaces, and temples. Situated in the Thar Desert, Bikaner is also known as the ‘Camel Country’ as camels play an important part, not only in the tourism of Bikaner but also in the daily life of Bikaner.

Bikaner is also famous for its Rajasthani cuisine, colourful markets, ethnic arts and crafts, folk music, and architectural beauty. It’s a perfect holiday destination from Delhi.

• Distance from Delhi: 437 km.
• Major Attractions: Junagarh Fort, Gajner Palace, Karni Mata Temple, Sand Dunes Safari, Rampuria Haveli, Lalgarh Palace, National Research Centre on Camel, Shri Laxminath Temple, Ganga Singh Museum, Jain Temple.

25. Amritsar

Famous for its Golden Temple, Amritsar in Punjab is a major spiritual and religious centre of Sikh religion. The infamous Jallianwala Bagh massacre in British India took place in Amritsar. Amritsar is a religious tourist place for a holiday from Delhi.

The cuisine of Amritsar is famous all over India, with the dhabas serving foods like Chole Bhature, Kulcha, tandoori chicken, lassi among many more. For those interested in places connected to Indian independence, religion and culture, Amritsar is definitely a place worth visiting.

• Distance from Delhi: 450 km.
• Major Attractions: Wagah Border, Jallianwala Bagh, Golden Temple, Rambagh Gardens, Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum, Durgiana Temple, Akal Takht, Tarn Taran, Harike Wetland, Bathinda Fort, Pul Kanjari, Goindwal Sahib, Faridkot Fort.

26. Dharamshala

This hill station in Himachal Pradesh is more famous for being the residence of the Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama. But apart from this, Dharamshala is also a land of scenic valleys, numerous waterfalls, alpine forests, small hamlets, pretty villages, old monasteries, and lofty Himalayan Mountains.

The Buddhist culture here attracts people from all over India. It’s famous for its shopping, handicrafts, carpets and much more, and is an idyllic holiday destination from Delhi. The surrounding forests are perfect for trekking, hiking, rock climbing, night camping.

• Distance from Delhi: 474 km.
• Major Attractions: McLeod Ganj, Kangra Valley, Dharamkot, Triund Hill, Dalai Lama Temple Complex, Tsuglagkhang Complex. Bhagsu Waterfall, Gyuto Monastery, Namgyal Monastery, Kareri Dal Lake, Bhagsunag Temple, Kangra Fort, Masroor Rock Cut Temple, Naddi Village.

27. Lucknow

The capital of Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow is famous as the city of Nawabs. It is a fine blend of culture, cuisine, traditions, and history. Its artistic traditions, a legacy of music, architectural wonders, and iconic cuisine has earned Lucknow, a place among the best holiday destinations of India.

Lucknow, situated along the banks of the Gomti River, has some remarkable archaeological monuments, gardens, palaces, temples, museums, and other places of interest.

• Distance from Delhi: 494 km.
• Major Attractions: Bara Imambara, Chota Imambara, British Residency, Lucknow Zoo, Hazratganj, Constantia House, Dr Ambedkar Park, Lucknow Museum, Rumi Darwaza, Chattar Manzil, Begum Hazrat Mahal Park, Dilkhusha Kothi.

28. Auli

Nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas, Auli in Uttarakhand is a spectacular hill station. It is a major tourist destination of India and among the most visited holiday destinations from Delhi. The beauty of Auli is seen in its dense woods, valleys, panoramic view of the Himalayan peaks, and unpolluted environment. It’s a paradise for skiing and many other adventure sports like trekking, hiking, camping to mention a few.

• Distance from Delhi: 495 km.
• Major Attractions: Auli Artificial Lake, Auli Ropeway, Joshimath, Gurso Bugyal, Kwani Bugyal, Chattrakund, Chenab Lake, Trishul Peak, Rudraprayag, Nandaprayag, Nanda Devi Peak, Vishnuprayag.

So many attractions around Delhi are sure to spur you to visit them. If you have also visited these places, or know of some which we may have missed out, drop us your comments below.