Delhi Summer Survival Guide: Weekend Adventures for Every Budget & Interest

Delhi's summer scorch is legendary, but fear not! Escape awaits just a short trip away. This weekend, ditch the sweltering city and embark on a refreshing adventure to one of these delightful destinations:

 

1. A Splashing Good Time: Water Parks & Amusement Parks

Worlds of Wonder (Noida): Escape the heat with thrilling water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers. Prices vary depending on weekdays/weekends and age groups (approx. ₹790 - ₹1290 for adults). 

 

Tips

 Arrive early (gates open at 11:00 AM) to avoid crowds. 

 Apply sunscreen liberally and reapply throughout the day. 

 Stay hydrated with plenty of water.  

 Consider renting a locker (approx. ₹100) to secure your belongings.

 

Appu Ghar (Gurgaon): Perfect for families with young children, offering a variety of rides and attractions. Prices vary depending on weekdays/weekends and height (approx. ₹490 - ₹790 for adults).

Image courtesy: LBB

2. Hilly Haven: Weekend Getaways to Manali or Kasauli

Manali (Himachal Pradesh): Nestled amidst the Himalayas, Manali offers breathtaking views, snow-capped peaks, and refreshing mountain air. 

 

Travel Time: Approximately 8-10 hours by car. 

Accommodation Options: Budget guesthouses (approx. ₹1000 per night) to luxurious resorts (starting from ₹5000 per night).

Image courtesy: Manali tourism

 

Kasauli (Himachal Pradesh): A charming colonial-era hill station with a laid-back vibe. 

 

Travel Time: Approximately 5-6 hours by car.

Accommodation Options: Budget guesthouses (approx. ₹800 per night) to boutique hotels (starting from ₹2500 per night).

Image courtesy: Tour my India

 

3. A Verdant Escape: Explore Delhi's Gardens (Free Entry)

Lodhi Gardens: A sprawling oasis in the heart of the city, offering manicured lawns, walking paths, and serene lotus ponds. (Open: 5:00 AM - 8:00 PM)

Image courtesy: Fab hotels

 

Nehru Park: Home to a delightful rose garden boasting over 100 varieties. Plan your visit during the rose blooming season (February-March) for a truly fragrant experience. (Open: Sunrise - Sunset)

Image courtesy: Tripadvisor

 

Pro Tip: Pack a light picnic lunch and enjoy a relaxing afternoon amidst the greenery.

 

4. A Cultural Immersion: Explore Delhi's Museums (Ticket Prices Vary)

National Museum: Offers a comprehensive overview of Indian history. (Entry Fee: ₹150 for adults, Free on Mondays)

 

National Gallery of Modern Art: Witness contemporary Indian art. (Entry Fee: ₹50 for adults, Free on Wednesdays) 

 

National Science Centre: Interactive exhibits and engaging displays for science enthusiasts. (Entry Fee: ₹60 for adults)

 

Bonus Tip: Many museums offer free entry on specific days. Research these offers to plan a budget-friendly cultural exploration.

Image courtesy: Holidify

 

5. A Culinary Adventure: Explore Delhi's Rooftop Restaurants (Prices Vary)

Khan Market: A hub with a variety of rooftop restaurants offering delectable cuisines from around the world. (Expect prices to range from ₹1000 - ₹2000 per person for a meal)

Image courtesy: Zee Zest

 

Hauz Khas Village: Popular for trendy cafes and rooftop restaurants with stunning views. (Expect prices to range from ₹800 - ₹1500 per person for a meal)

Image courtesy: Medium

 

Pro Tip: Make reservations in advance, especially for popular rooftop restaurants.

 

6. A Cinematic Escape: Catch a Movie at a Luxe Theatre (Ticket Prices Vary)

Select CITYWALK, Saket: Offers luxurious multiplexes with plush seating and a wide selection of movies. (Ticket prices vary depending on movie, format, and time of day - approx. ₹200 - ₹500)

 

DLF Place, Saket: Another popular option with luxurious multiplexes and a variety of movie options. (Ticket prices vary - similar to Select CITYWALK)

Image courtesy: Fab hotels

 

7. A Relaxing Spa Day (Prices Vary)

Treat yourself and your friends to a pampering spa day. Many hotels and spas offer day packages with massages, facials, and other treatments. Prices typically start from ₹2000 onwards, depending on the spa and treatments chosen.

Image courtesy: VLCC institute

 

Beyond the City Limits

While Delhi itself offers a variety of options to escape the heat, sometimes a complete change of scenery is necessary. Here are a couple of exciting getaways slightly further afield:

 

8. A Historical & Spiritual Journey: Mathura & Vrindavan (Uttar Pradesh)

Immerse yourselves in India's rich heritage with a visit to Mathura and Vrindavan, located around 160 kilometers from Delhi. Mathura, the birthplace of Lord Krishna, boasts ancient temples and historical sites. Vrindavan, known as the land of Krishna's playful childhood, offers serene temples and spiritual experiences. 

 

Travel Time: Approximately 3-4 hours by car.

Accommodation Options: Budget hotels (approx. ₹1500 per night) to heritage properties (starting from ₹4000 per night). 

Image courtesy: Wikipedia

 

9. A Wildlife Adventure: Jim Corbett National Park (Uttarakhand)

For nature lovers, a weekend getaway to Jim Corbett National Park, approximately 260 kilometers from Delhi, is a perfect escape. Explore the diverse wildlife, including tigers, elephants, and a variety of birds, through jeep safaris and nature trails. 

 

Travel Time: Approximately 5-6 hours by car.

Accommodation Options: Jungle lodges and resorts offering unique experiences amidst nature (starting from ₹5000 per night). 

Image courtesy: Her zindagi

 

Remember

 

 Regardless of your chosen escape, plan your itinerary in advance, especially for popular destinations during peak season. 

 Book your accommodation and transportation well in advance to secure the best deals.

 Pack light, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes for exploring. 

 Stay hydrated by carrying a reusable water bottle and drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day.

 Apply sunscreen liberally and wear protective hats, especially during outdoor activities.

 

So, ditch the Delhi heat and embark on a refreshing weekend adventure! With this diverse list of options, you're sure to find the perfect escape to cool down, create lasting memories, and return to the city feeling rejuvenated.

 

FAQs about Beating the Delhi Heat with Weekend Getaways

 

Q1.  I'm short on time! What are some quick escapes within Delhi to beat the heat?

Ans: No problem! Delhi offers several options for a quick heat escape. Explore the serene Lodhi Gardens or Nehru Park for a peaceful afternoon amidst greenery. Both parks are free to enter and easily accessible by metro. Alternatively, catch a movie at a luxurious multiplex like those in Select CITYWALK or DLF Place, Saket. These theaters provide air-conditioned comfort and a wide selection of films for a relaxing afternoon.

 

Q2.  What are some unique experiences I can include in my weekend getaway?

Ans: For a truly unforgettable experience, consider a rooftop dinner in Khan Market or Hauz Khas Village. These trendy neighborhoods boast a variety of restaurants offering delectable cuisine from around the world, all with stunning city views. Alternatively, embark on a historical and spiritual journey to Mathura and Vrindavan. Immerse yourselves in ancient temples, witness traditional ceremonies, and experience the rich cultural heritage of these sacred cities.

 

Q3.  Traveling with a large group?  Are there any budget-friendly getaway options?

 

Ans: Absolutely! Consider a picnic lunch at Lodhi Gardens or Nehru Park. Pack some homemade treats, grab some fruits from the local market, and enjoy a relaxing afternoon surrounded by nature. Another budget-friendly option is exploring Delhi's vibrant markets. Chandni Chowk offers a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and aromas, with countless food stalls and shops selling everything under the sun.