As India gears up to celebrate Independence Day on August 15th, this year brings a bonus – a long weekend from August 15th to 17th. For Delhiites, it’s the perfect excuse to escape the sweltering heat, city chaos, and daily grind. Whether you’re looking for adrenaline-pumping adventures, tranquil hills, heritage trails, or romantic getaways, the extended weekend opens up a treasure trove of travel opportunities.
Delhi, with its strategic location and excellent road and bus connectivity, serves as a launchpad for numerous weekend destinations – whether it’s spiritual retreats in the Himalayas, cultural escapades to Mughal landmarks, or serene hill towns that promise pure relaxation. And the best part? Most of these escapes are just a few hours away by road, making them ideal for quick getaways.
So, if you haven’t made plans yet, don’t worry. Here’s your curated list of top weekend trips from Delhi (15-17 August) that are perfect for solo travellers, couples, friends, and families alike.
Bonus: You can book your travel and hotels easily on Paytm – your go-to platform for seamless, affordable, and fast travel bookings.
Top Getaways from Delhi for the Independence Day Weekend
1. Rishikesh – Adventure, Spirituality & Riverside Bliss 🧘♀️
Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas and kissed by the Ganges, Rishikesh is a blend of thrilling adventure and spiritual tranquillity. Perfect for adrenaline junkies and peace-seekers alike, Rishikesh offers white water rafting, bungee jumping, cliff jumping, and more – all set against a stunning natural backdrop. Yoga lovers can immerse themselves in ashram life, while riverside cafes offer serene views and local treats.
Top things to do:
- White water rafting in the Ganges
- Bungee Jumping (India’s highest at Mohan Chatti)
- Attend the Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat
- Riverside camping and bonfire nights
- Yoga sessions at famous ashrams like Parmarth Niketan
How to Reach Rishikesh by Bus from Delhi:
Rishikesh is around 240 km from Delhi and well-connected by both AC and non-AC buses.
- Travel Time: 6–7 hours
- Boarding Points: Kashmiri Gate ISBT, Anand Vihar
- Best Time to Leave: Take an overnight bus on August 14th to reach by morning.
Check out the stays in Rishikesh
2. Lansdowne – Peaceful Hills, Colonial Vibes 🏞️
Tucked away in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, Lansdowne is an offbeat gem. Unlike its more touristy counterparts, Lansdowne retains its old-world charm, colonial-era churches, pine forests, and peaceful atmosphere. It’s ideal if you just want to unwind, read a book on the balcony, or take leisurely walks surrounded by nature.
Top things to do:
- Visit the War Memorial and St. Mary’s Church
- Boating at Bhulla Tal Lake
- Nature walks through pine and oak forests.
- Explore Tip-in-Top for panoramic valley views.
How to Reach Lansdowne by Bus from Delhi:
Lansdowne is 250 km from Delhi. While there is no direct Volvo, you can take a bus to Kotdwar and then a shared cab or local bus.
- Travel Time: 7–8 hours
- Bus Route: Delhi → Kotdwar → Lansdowne
- Boarding Points: Kashmiri Gate ISBT
Check out the stays in Lansdowne
3. Agra – The Timeless Beauty of the Taj Mahal 🤩
A UNESCO World Heritage city, Agra is always a good idea – especially when you have a long weekend to spare. Beyond the Taj Mahal, the city offers a deep dive into Mughal history with attractions like Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, and bustling local bazaars for authentic leather goods and petha sweets.
Top things to do:
- Sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal
- Explore Agra Fort and Mehtab Bagh
- Street food trail at Sadar Bazaar
- Visit the abandoned Mughal city of Fatehpur Sikri.
How to Reach Agra by Bus from Delhi:
Located just 230 km from Delhi, Agra has excellent highway connectivity via the Yamuna Expressway.
- Travel Time: 4–5 hours
- Boarding Points: Sarai Kale Khan, Anand Vihar ISBT
- Bus Options: Volvo, Deluxe, Sleeper – all available on Paytm
4. Neemrana – Royal Stay in a Fort Palace 🌇
If you’re dreaming of a luxurious escape without travelling too far, Neemrana is your answer. Located in Rajasthan, it’s best known for the Neemrana Fort Palace, a 15th-century heritage hotel that offers an unforgettable stay. With hanging gardens, ziplining, royal dining, and infinity pools, this getaway spells regal relaxation.
Top things to do:
- Stay in Neemrana Fort Palace
- Zipline across the fort walls
- Indulge in royal Rajasthani cuisine.
- Visit the step-wells and explore the vintage car museum
How to Reach Neemrana by Bus from Delhi:
Neemrana is just 120 km from Delhi.
- Travel Time: 2.5–3 hours
- Boarding Points: Dhaula Kuan, Rajiv Chowk (Gurgaon)
- Bus Options: Daily buses towards Jaipur stop at Neemrana – available on Paytm
Check out the stays in Neemrana
5. Nainital – Lakes, Cafes & Misty Mornings 🚣♀️
Set in the Kumaon region, Nainital is a classic hill retreat that never goes out of style. Whether it’s boating on Naini Lake, shopping at Mall Road, or sipping hot cocoa at a hillside cafe, Nainital offers a perfect mix of nature and leisure. Ideal for families, couples, and even solo travellers.
Top things to do:
- Boating on Naini Lake
- Visit Naina Devi Temple & Snow View Point
- Ropeway ride for aerial views of the lake
- Explore cafes along Mall Road.
- Nearby spots: Tiffin Top, Naukuchiatal, and Bhimtal
How to Reach Nainital by Bus from Delhi:
Nainital is around 310 km from Delhi and well-connected via overnight buses.
- Travel Time: 7–8 hours
- Boarding Points: Anand Vihar ISBT
- Tip: Book an overnight Volvo on August 14th to wake up in the mountains.
Check out the stays in Nainital
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Conclusion
This Independence Day weekend is more than just a holiday – it’s a chance to unwind, explore, and make unforgettable memories. Delhi’s prime location gives you access to some of the most diverse weekend destinations – from spiritual towns and mountain escapes to royal forts and cultural hubs.
So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, book your bus and hotel on Paytm, and make the most of the 15–17 August long weekend. Because every great journey begins with a single click!
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