Backpacking has been the hype for the longest time. Whether it’s simply because you’re a nature lover or because you need a break, it’s just a great way to strip back all the glamor of everyday city life and rediscover the world! So if you’re based in Delhi and have a long weekend coming up ahead, then here are some of the best backpacking trips from Delhi that you must go for!
Best Backpacking Trips From Delhi You Must Take
1. Kasol, Himachal Pradesh
What better way to kickstart our backpacking list than with the picturesque town that is dubbed the backpacker’s haven! Kasol is a nature lover’s paradise. It’s surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, and laden with several glacial rivers and gurgling streams. Located 1,580 meters above sea level along the banks of the river Parvati, Kasol is a hub for backpackers, tourists, and party animals!
Road Distance From Delhi: 571 km, approximately 13 hours by road.
Places To Visit: Parvati Valley, Tosh Village, Kheer Ganga, and Tirthan Valley.
Things To Do: Trekking, hiking, riverside camping, and nature walks.
2. Ranikhet, Uttarakhand
Hidden in the valleys of Kumaon, Ranikhet translates to ‘Queen’s Farm’ and is no less of a jewel-like destination. A perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of Delhi, the hill station offers its visitors total tranquility and a chance to discover themselves! Covered in green meadows, pine, and oak trees against the majestic backdrop of the Himalayas, the hill station is a must-visit. Frequently explored by backpackers and hikers, Ranikhet is a great place to begin your backpacking journey.
Road Distance From Delhi: 371 km, roughly 9 hours by road
Places To Visit: Chaubatia Orchards, Holm Farm, Bhalu Dam, Meghdoot, Chevron Rosemount.
Things To Do: Nature walks, camping, trekking, cycling, golfing, and fishing.
3. McLeod Ganj, Himachal Pradesh
Situated near upper Dharamshala, McLeod Ganj is the renowned home of the Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama. Set amidst lush greenery and lofty hills, this beautiful town is a popular tourist destination, especially for backpackers and hikers. Located in the Kangra district, it has one of the most captivating sceneries in all of Himachal. Make sure to visit Dharamshala, Kangra, Nag, and Bhagsu, which are located close to McLeodGanj.
Road Distance From Delhi: 536, roughly 12 hours by road
Places To Visit: Namgyal Monastery, Minkiani Pass, Naddi View Point, Dharamkot, Bhagsu Waterfall.
Things To Do: Shopping, sightseeing, camping, trekking, and spiritual experiences.
4. Lansdowne, Uttarakhand
Located at a height of 1,780 meters above sea level, Lansdowne is a quiet and slightly unexplored hill station in Uttarakhand. Tucked away in a corner of the Pauri Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, this hill town is well-maintained and breathtaking. The town is surrounded by fragrant oak and pine woods and appears like painted scenery. Far from Delhi’s traffic and bustling streets, Lansdowne is an ideal retreat for those looking for some tranquility.
Road Distance From Delhi: 2801 km, approximately 7 hours by road.
Places To Visit: Bhulla Lake, Tip N Top, St. John’s Church, Kaleshwar Mahadev Temple, Kalagarh Tiger Reserve.
Things To Do: Camping, boating, trekking, hiking, nature walking, birdwatching, and jungle safari.
5. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
One of the most popular backpacking destinations from Delhi, Mussoorie is located 2,005 meters above sea level. This hill station was once the British summer capital owing to its cool and pleasant climate throughout the year. Dubbed the ‘Queen of Hill Stations, ’ Mussoorie showcases stunning natural scenery, complete with lush green slopes and crashing waterfalls. Apart from its mesmerizing beauty, the town’s archaic British architecture, charming little houses, and old-school town structure give it a colonial vibe.
Road Distance From Delhi: 313 km, approximately 7 hours by road
Places To Visit: Kempty Falls, Gun Hill, Lal Tibba, Lake Mist, Dallai Hills, Camel’s Back Road.
Things To Do: Trekking, hiking, rock climbing, paragliding, rafting, boating, fishing, mountain biking, and more.
6. Kausani, Uttarakhand
Located 52 km to the north of Almora, Kausani is a picturesque hill station in the Bageshwar district of Uttarakhand. This little hill station is a popular choice for backpackers, for its splendid natural scenery and panoramic views of peaks like Trisul, Nanda Devi, and Panchachuli. Kausani is nestled between the Someshwar Valley and the Garur and Baijnath Katyuri Valley, adding to its stunning landscape. The town is quite peaceful, and the local lifestyle is minimal. So for those looking for a quiet de-stressing mini-vacation, Kausani is your pick!
Road Distance From Delhi: 430 km, approximately 11 hours by road.
Places To Visit: Pinnath, Rudradhari Falls and Caves, Gwaldham, Kausani Tea Estate, Stargate Observatory.
Things To Do: Trekking, hiking, shopping, tea tasting, and photography.
7. Chail, Himachal Pradesh
Similar to Kausani, Chail is an idyllic hill station in Himachal that is frequented by tourists looking for a happy break and a few moments of absolute peace. The town has something for everyone, whether you’re a nature lover or a cricket lover! Surrounded by the majestic Himalayan peaks and green carpet of pine and oak, it’s pretty obvious that this town looks breathtaking. But for cricket lovers, you can find the world’s highest cricket ground here, situated at an elevation of 2,444 meters! Chail is home to a stunning palace, a beautiful wildlife sanctuary, and pristine lakes and rivers, making it a visit-worthy destination on this list!
Road Distance From Delhi: 400 km, approximately 8 hours by road.
Places To Visit: Chail Wildlife Sanctuary, Chail Cricket Ground, Chail Palace, Sadhupul Lake.
Things To Do: Camping, rock climbing, wildlife spotting, bird watching, trekking, and horse riding.
8. Almora, Uttarakhand
Set against the majestic backdrop of the snow-capped Himalayas, Almora is a cozy little hill station decked with jaw-dropping views and popular pilgrimage sites. Home to two of the major river systems in India, Almora has a stunning landscape that makes for some great trekking routes and hiking trails. A popular stop for backpackers, the town is the starting point for several climbing and trekking routes that go deeper into the Himalayas.
Road Distance From Delhi: 377.6 km
Approximate Travel Time: 9 to 9.5 hours by road
Places To Visit: Zero Point, Kasar Devi, Jageshwar, Dunagiri, Binsar, Bright End Corner, Jalna
Things To Do: Rafting, trekking, hiking, shopping, photography, and experiencing the wildlife.
9. Narkanda, Himachal Pradesh
A quaint little town located in the Shimla district, Narkanda is a popular tourist attraction for its apple orchards and natural beauty. Set at a height of 2,708 meters above sea level, this hill station offers an untarnished view of the forest, rugged mountains, and the popular Tannu Jabar Lake here. Narkanda is a popular backpackers’ site since the town has several trekking routes situated here. One such route is the Hatu Nag trek, which offers a 360-degree view of the town below!
Road Distance From Delhi: 467 km, roughly 10 hours by road.
Places To Visit: Hatu Peak, Stokes Farm, Tannu Jabar Lake, Jau Baug, and Kacheri.
Things To Do: Skiing, trekking, fruit picking, camping, and picnics.
10. Kanatal, Uttarakhand
A less explored Mussoorie suburb, Kanatal, is a welcome stop for many backpackers against the tourist and pilgrim crowd in Mussoorie. Perched at a height of 2,590 meters, the hill station offers a splendid view of the striking Himalayas and deep valleys, making it a photographer’s paradise! The town is a haven for adventure junkies, from exploring the wildlife sanctuaries to jet-skiing and boating on Lake Tehri. Whether it is camping, trekking, rappelling, star-gazing, or valley crossing, Kanatal has it all!
Road Distance From Delhi: 340 km, 8 hours by road.
Places To Visit: Lake Tehri, Surkanda Devi Temple, Kodai Jungle.
Things To Do: Trekking, camping, boating, jet-skiing, bird watching, wildlife spotting, photography.
Summing Up
There’s no better way to spend your weekend than going on a short backpacking trip, either with your friends or by yourself. Backpacking is a welcome change from your monotonous life and doing something exciting instead. So go through our amazing list of backpacking trips from Delhi and make your pick for your next long weekend plan!
FAQs
Why Is Backpacking So Popular?
One of the reasons backpacking is so popular is that it teaches individuals how to enjoy spending time by themselves and reconnect with nature. It also boosts your confidence since you meet new people, have new experiences, and learn to make do with the bare minimum.
What Is The Difference Between Hiking And Backpacking?
The main difference between the two is that backpacking involves spending one or more nights away from home, and so you carry your gear (backpack) with all your necessities along. On the other hand, hiking generally means you’ll return home at the end of the day after your excursion.
Is Backpacking Easy In India?
Backpacking in India is not simple due to the varying terrain and physiological conditions across the country. So, depending on your choice of backpacking destination, your expedition can range from easy to difficult.
Where Do Most Backpackers Go In India?
Some of the popular backpacking trails in India include Rishikesh, Varanasi, Dharamkot, Varkala, Udaipur, Manali, Darjeeling, and the Zanskar Valley.
What Is The Best Time To Visit Himachal?
The months from February to June are the most comfortable time to visit Himachal, due to the pleasant weather and clear skies. If you wish to experience snowfall, then you should plan your trip sometime between November and January.
Which Places In Himachal Have Snowfall?
Places like Spiti Valley, Shimla, Manali, Narkanda, Solang Valley, and Dalhousie experience heavy snowfall during the winters in Himachal.
What Is The Best Time To Visit Uttarakhand?
You can either visit Uttarakhand during the summertime (February to June) or during the winter (October to January). The summer season is quite pleasant and perfect for exploration, while the winters see heavy snowfall and facilitate snow-based activities.
Which Places In Uttarakhand Have Snowfall?
Places like Kausani, Auli, Mukteshwar, Mussoorie, Chakrata, Dhanaulti, and other spots in Uttarakhand have heavy snowfall.
