One of the great things about Delhi is that it's relatively close to the mountains and a number of other diverse tourist places. There's something for everyone, including spirituality, nature, history and entertainment. If you're thinking of getting out of the city and exploring the surrounding area, read on to discover the best day trips to take from Delhi.
Taj Mahal and Fatehpur Sikri
Want to see the Taj Mahal but don't have much time to spare? It can be visited on a day trip from Delhi. It's also possible to add in Agra Fort (it's more impressive than the Red Fort in Delhi) and the abandoned city of Fatehpur Sikhri for an extra dose of heritage. Taking the train is an inexpensive way of getting from Delhi to Agra, and the journey can be completed in less than two hours if you catch an express train in the morning. Here are the best train options, including for the return journey in the evening. However, if you plan on seeing multiple attractions there, it's more convenient to hire a car and driver. Check out these top places to visit in and around Agra for options. Private day tours by car from Delhi are also popular. There's more information in this essential Taj Mahal travel guide.
Vrindavan
The journey to Vrindavan can be done in under three hours from Delhi, along with the Yamuna Expressway. If you hire a car and driver to go to Agra from Delhi, Vrindavan is on the way and can be included as a stop (although you should really spend a day there). This holy destination sits alongside the Yamuna River in Uttar Pradesh and is where Lord Krishna is said to have spent his childhood and youth. During that time, he slayed demons and embarked on his famous love affair with Radha. Compared to nearby Mathura, where Krishna was born, Vrindavan is relaxed and peaceful. The town has a distinct divinity that will leave you feeling spiritually refreshed. Spend the day meandering through the narrow streets and visiting the thousands of temples, of all different sizes. Later in the afternoon, head to Kesi Ghat for the sunset aarti (worship with fire) ceremony. Hire a boat and go across the river for a magical view of it. If you have time, also visit the complex of abandoned temples 30 minutes away at Kusum Sarovar near Govardhan.
Alwar
Interested in more forts and palaces? A three-hour drive south of Delhi will get you to Alwar in Rajasthan. There, you can see the 18th century City Palace complex and government museum (closed Fridays) inside it, devoted to showcasing the extravagant lifestyle of the kings. Tucked away behind the City Palace, it's Lake Sagar and the many chhatris (dome-shaped pavilions) that are most visually impressive though. Above the City, Palace sits the 16th century Bala Quila, one of the few forts in Rajasthan to be built before the rise of the Mughals. Unfortunately, it's poorly maintained and most parts are inaccessible. If you have time, the Forest Department runs popular jeep safaris to the fort and surrounding leopard trails.
Kingdom of Dreams
One of the top theme parks in India, Kingdom of Dreams is an outstanding live entertainment destination in Gurgaon, about an hour south of Delhi. It encompasses both Indian culture and the performing arts. Wander through the elaborate arts, crafts, and culinary boulevard that is Culture Gully. Sample food from different states in India. Then, catch a live Bollywood musical. It's open Tuesday to Sunday, from 1 p.m. until 1 a.m.
Sultanpur National Park
Sultanpur National Park is one of the best sanctuaries in India for bird watching. Although it's not very big in size, it's situated conveniently close to Delhi in the Gurgaon district of Haryana. The drive there only takes about an hour and a half. Hence, if you can't visit Keoladeo Ghana National Park (formerly Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary) in Rajasthan and want to spend some time in nature, Sultanpur is a decent option for a day trip. The park attracts both local and migratory birds, including some all the way from Siberia. It has a tourist center, circular walking trail and four watchtowers.
See more: Top 5 amazing temples in India
Source TripSavvy
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