Beyond Gurgaon: top day trips and weekend getaways you can't miss

Gurgaon is great, but sometimes you need a break from the dhak-dhak of city life. Luckily, there are plenty of amazing places just a short drive away. Whether you're looking for nature, history, adventure, or just some peace, here’s a list of nearby spots that are bohot hard.

1. Damdama Lake (30 km)

Perfect for a quick escape. You can go boating, rock climbing, or just chill by the lake. Pro tip: try the aloo paratha at the dhabas nearby. Maza aa jayega!

Damdama Lake 

2. Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary (25 km)

A paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers. Spot flamingos, pelicans, and more. Don’t forget your camera and binoculars!

Colourful dove at Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary

3. Aravalli Biodiversity Park (15 km)

One of Gurgaon’s best-kept secrets, this green escape is perfect for an early morning nature walk, birdwatching, or just a break from the urban chaos.

Aravalli Biodiversity Park 

4. Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary (35 km)

A lesser-known sanctuary in South Delhi, great for trekking, wildlife spotting, and scenic views of the Surajkund Lake nearby.

Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary 

5. Botanix Nature Resort (35 km)

A fun, eco-friendly retreat on the outskirts of Gurgaon where you can enjoy activities like ziplining, mud baths, and village-style cooking. Great for family trips!

Ziplining at Botanix Nature Resort 

6. Neemrana Fort Palace (80 km)

Step back in time at this 15th-century fort-turned-heritage hotel. You can stay overnight or just visit for the day. The zip-lining here is bohot fun!

Neemrana Fort Palace 

7. Alwar (150 km)

Home to the stunning Bala Quila Fort and Siliserh Lake. Don’t miss the pyaaz ki kachori at the local markets. Zabardast hai!

Alwar, a city in Rajasthan

8. Kurukshetra (150 km)

A place steeped in history and mythology. Visit the Brahma Sarovar, Bhishma Kund, and the Jyotisar Tirth (where Krishna is believed to have delivered the Bhagavad Gita).

Shri Sarveshwar Mahadev Temple at Brahma Sarovar 

9. Nuh (50 km)

A hidden gem with historical sites like Kotla Lake, the ancient ruins of Chui Mal ka Talaab, and the Sheikh Musa Tomb. It’s less crowded and perfect for a quiet day out.

10. Bharatpur (180 km)

Famous for the Keoladeo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts migratory birds from as far as Siberia. A dream for nature and history lovers alike!

Spotted deer in a forest, Keoladeo National Park 

11. Mathura and Vrindavan (150 km)

A spiritual retreat for devotees. Visit the Banke Bihari Temple and ISKCON Temple. The pedas here are famous hai. Also, don’t miss the Prem Mandir light show in the evening.

Mathura, Uttar Pradesh

12. Haridwar & Rishikesh (250 km)

A longer drive, but totally worth it. Attend the Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri, or head to Rishikesh for white-water rafting and yoga retreats.

Rishikesh, India

13. Pushkar (380 km)

A unique desert town known for its holy lake, camel safaris, and the only Brahma Temple in the world. A great mix of spirituality and adventure.

Pushkar, Rajesthan

14. Jaipur (250 km)

The Pink City is perfect for a weekend trip. Visit Hawa Mahal, Amer Fort, and City Palace. And of course, indulge in laal maas and ghewar.

Amer Fort, Rajasthan

15. Chandigarh (250 km)

A city known for its Rock Garden, Sukhna Lake, and wide clean roads. It’s a refreshing break from Delhi-NCR’s chaos!

Sukhna lake

16. Agra (210 km)

The Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Petha – need we say more? If you’ve never been, now’s the time.

Taj Mahal, Agra

17. Lucknow (500 km – best done via train or flight)

A food lover’s paradise! Try Tunday Kebabs, biryani, and malai paan while exploring the Bara Imambara and the beautiful old city.

Local tips for travellers

• Transport: Most places are well-connected by road. Hire a cab or drive yourself. For longer trips, consider an overnight stay. If you're staying at The Hosteller, you can book a rental bike or car through the Glu app to make your trip more cost-effective.
• Timing: Start early to avoid traffic and make the most of your day.
• Packing: Carry water, snacks, and sunscreen. For wildlife spots, wear neutral colours and comfortable shoes.Gurgaon is a great base to explore some incredible nearby destinations. Whether you're into nature, history, or just good food, these places have something for everyone. So, chalo, pack your bags and hit the road. Safar suhana ho jayega.