Lansdowne: The Quiet Colonial Retreat
Just a six to seven-hour drive from Delhi, Lansdowne is a cantonment town that has retained its old-world colonial charm. Unlike other commercialised hill stations, it offers a peaceful and disciplined environment, thanks to the Garhwal Rifles regiment
command centre located here. This pristine town in the Garhwal Hills is perfect for those seeking tranquility. The drive itself is scenic, passing through Meerut, Bijnor, and Kotdwar. Once there, you can enjoy a quiet boat ride on the man-made Bhulla Tal Lake, built and maintained by the army. For panoramic views of the Himalayas, head to the Tip-in-Top viewpoint, where you can catch both sunrise and sunset. History buffs will appreciate the Darwan Singh Museum, which showcases the history of the Garhwal Rifles. For a spiritual detour, the ancient Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple, nestled deep in a pine forest, is a 40-km drive away and offers a profoundly peaceful experience.
Kasauli: Nostalgia in the Pines
Nestled in Himachal's Solan district, Kasauli is a heritage hill town that feels like a step back in time. Roughly a six to seven-hour drive from Delhi, it’s known for its pine forests, colonial-era architecture, and quiet atmosphere. A walk along the Upper and Lower Mall roads is a must, offering a glimpse into the town's history with its quaint cafes and bookstores. For one of the best experiences, take a leisurely stroll on the Gilbert Trail, a 1.5-kilometre walkway that winds along the edge of the hill, offering beautiful views and a chance for bird-watching. Don't miss the sunset from Sunset Point, a popular spot that provides captivating views of the sun dipping behind the mountains. Monkey Point, the highest peak in Kasauli, houses a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman and offers stunning panoramic vistas. For a taste of history, visit the Kasauli Brewery, one of the oldest distilleries in Asia, or the Christ Church, known for its beautiful stained-glass windows.
Naukuchiatal: The Lake of Nine Corners
If a lakeside holiday is what you crave, look no further than Naukuchiatal in Uttarakhand’s Nainital district. This beautiful hill station is famous for its unique nine-cornered lake, which is the deepest in the region. It’s a more tranquil and less commercialised alternative to Nainital, making it perfect for those who love peace and nature. The journey from Delhi involves reaching Kathgodam by train (35 km away) or Pantnagar by air (70 km away), followed by a short taxi ride. You can also drive down, taking a bus to Haldwani or Nainital and then a cab. The main attraction is, of course, the lake itself, where you can enjoy boating, kayaking, and fishing in a serene environment. The surrounding hills and oak forests are ideal for trekking, nature walks, and bird watching. According to local legend, anyone who sees all nine corners of the lake at once attains salvation.
Fagu: The Misty Hamlet
For those looking to escape the crowds completely, Fagu is a pristine hamlet located just beyond Shimla. Situated at an altitude of about 2,500 metres, its name is derived from the word 'fog' because it is enveloped in mist for much of the year. This destination is perfect for honeymooners and nature lovers seeking solitude amidst apple orchards and terraced fields with the snow-clad Himalayas in the backdrop. The drive from Delhi is around 350 km. Fagu is not a place for a packed sightseeing itinerary but rather for unwinding in the lap of nature. It serves as a great base for easy to moderate treks and peaceful nature walks through dense pine and deodar forests. You can trek to the nearby village of Cheog or simply enjoy the stunning panoramic views from Fagu Top, one of the highest points in the region.
