It’s January, officially the last month of the winter season, and also the best month to explore winter destinations. It is the perfect month to go on a road trip with your family and begin the year with endless fun. Delhities are known for their love for food, parties, and travel, and so if you are in Delhi, you must not miss out on this perfect opportunity to go on a road trip. Here are the best winter road trips to take from Delhi.
Best Winter Road Trips From Delhi 2026
1. Rishikesh
Known as the Yoga Capital of India, Rishikesh is the perfect destination for both adventure seekers and peace lovers. With adventures like bungee jumping and river rafting, as well as yoga retreats, a road trip to this city in Uttarakhand is a must, especially during winters. Do not miss the mesmerising Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat and walking on the swaying Laxman Jhula over the rapids. You can also relish delicious parathas on the way at the highways and return via Roorkee for some birdwatching on the way back.
Distance: 240 Km
Travel Time: 5 to 6 hours via NH-334
2. Shimla
A road trip to Shimla from Delhi will surely be etched in your memories forever, especially the pine-twisted ascents. The little town transforms into a winter wonderland from December to January with snowfall. So if you are lucky enough, you might get to witness the mesmerising snowfall that blankets the pine forests and colonial landmarks in white. You can visit Kufri for snow activities, Narkanda for panoramic Himalayan views, and shop for souvenirs at the iconic Mall Road here.
Distance: 350 Km
Travel Time: 7 to 8 hours via NH-5jaipur: https://theunstumbled.com/best-restaurants-and-cafes-in-jaipur-with-outdoor-dining/
3. Jaipur
Ditch the snowy Himalayan towns for the ultimate royal winter destination, Rajasthan’s pink city, Jaipur. Take the Yamun Expressway and travel towards the pink city while passing beside the lovely yellow mustard fields. Visit the beautiful Amber Fort, the iconic Hawa Mahal, and the unmissable City Palace for all the royal feels. Do not miss relishing some delicious Ghewar and kachoris from the streetside vendors on your way while exploring the city. You can also take a stroll in the colourful markets and buy colourful dupattas and lac bangles.
Distance: 270 Km
Travel Time: 5 hours via NH-48
4. Lansdowne
While the others head to the most well-known cities and towns, why not head to one of the most serene and offbeat hill stations in Uttarakhand, Lansdowne? Known for its panoramic Himalayan views, preserved British colonial architecture, and peaceful atmosphere, this town is a must-visit, especially via a road trip. Do not miss out on the Garhwal Museum, St. Mary’s Church, and Kaleshwar Mahadev mandir to experience peace. This is also one of the best places for serene staycations.
Distance: 250 Km
Travel Time: 6 hours via NH-534
5. Kanatal
Known for its offbeat Himalayan charm, Kanatal in Uttarakhand‘s Tehri Garhwal district, is a serene hill station. It’s renowned for Surkanda Devi Temple, a trek-accessible shrine at 2,750m, which is dedicated to Goddess Sati. Do not miss visiting Tehri Lake that hosts boating, water zorbing, and skiing on its bright blue waters at 1,700m elevation. Dhanaulti Eco Park nearby adds zip-lining, valley crossing, and camping under starlit skies for thrill-seekers.
Distance: 300 Km
Travel Time: 7 hours via NH-7
Summing Up
January is one of the best times to go on a road trip with your family from Delhi, and above is the list of the best places you can opt for, along with their distance and time taken. All the above places are within 7 hours from Delhi, making them the best options for weekend or long weekend getaways. So where are you going?
FAQs
Which hill station is closest to Delhi for snow?
Mussoorie (290 km) ranks as the closest snow destination from Delhi.
How long is the drive from Delhi to Jaipur on the new expressway?
The Delhi-Mumbai Expressway cuts the journey to 3.5-4 hours for 270 km.
Is it safe to drive to Manali in January?
It is generally safe via the Atal Tunnel with SUVs and daylight drives in January.
What are the best fog-safe road trips from Delhi?
Jaipur (NH-48 expressway, elevated), Neemrana (2.5 hrs flat), and Agra (Yamuna Expressway) minimize dense fog risks.
What is The Driving time to Jaipur via Delhi-Mumbai Expressway?
The driving time to Jaipur is 3.5 to 4 hours.
