Escape the chaos, find the charm.
Delhi’s energy is unmatched but even the most restless soul craves a break. If you’re looking to ditch the crowds and discover places that blend peace, nature, and culture, these 5 offbeat destinations near Delhi are where your 2025 travel diary should begin.
1. Pangot, Uttarakhand
Distance from Delhi: ~300 km (7-8 hrs)
A tiny village hidden in the Kumaon hills near Nainital, Pangot is a dream for birdwatchers and solitude seekers. Think dense oak forests, misty trails and charming homestays where time slows down.
Why Visit in 2025: The area is seeing more eco-conscious stays and retreats focused on wellness and slow travel.
Must-do: Early morning birding walk + sunset chai at a forest-facing deck.
2. Kansal Forest, Chandigarh Outskirts
Distance from Delhi: ~250 km (5 hrs)
Rarely topping travel lists, Kansal Forest is a serene patch of protected wilderness just outside Chandigarh. It’s ideal for travelers seeking short weekend hikes, wildlife photography, or forest bathing.
Why Visit in 2025: Conservation efforts have opened new eco trails and guided experiences.
Must-do: Forest immersion walk + guided nature sketching session.
3. Garli & Pragpur, Himachal Pradesh
Distance from Delhi: ~400 km (7-8 hrs)
Step back in time to these heritage twin villages in Kangra valley. Cobblestone streets, Indo-European havelis and craft-filled courtyards make this a cultural time capsule.
Why Visit in 2025: Local heritage homestays are reviving forgotten cuisines and artisan experiences.
Must-do: Heritage walk + traditional Kangri thali at a 100-year-old haveli.
4. Alwar Backcountry, Rajasthan
Distance from Delhi: ~160 km (4 hrs)
Not the palace hotels or forts explore Alwar’s rural edges: quiet lakesides, forest patches and tribal culture tucked away from tourist crowds. Ideal for mindful travelers, photographers or those craving a digital detox.
Why Visit in 2025: Rise in community-led retreats and regenerative stays like Ratikara are redefining what a “luxury escape” means.
Must-do: Stay in an eco-retreat, cycle through mustard fields, and try a forest-foraged thali.
5. Shoghi, Himachal Pradesh
Distance from Delhi: ~330 km (7 hrs)
Often skipped for Shimla, Shoghi offers forest glamping, fruit orchards and crisp mountain air minus the traffic and chaos.
Why Visit in 2025: New luxury nature camps and apple trail experiences are drawing in experience-focused travelers.
Must-do: Orchard walk + fire-lit dinner under the stars.
Bonus Tip for Conscious Travelers
When booking your offbeat getaway, seek out eco-conscious stays that care for the land, the local community and your peace of mind. Travel isn’t just about escape it’s about connection.
At Ratikara
Our philosophy starts where the road ends. Whether you’re on a forest ridge near Alwar or a riverbed cottage in Kumaon, our retreats are designed to regenerate the land, celebrate the local and revive your spirit.
Explore Ratikara retreats for a soulful escape that feels like it was made just for you.