New Delhi may be the capital of the country and what not, but being the centre of civilisation makes it quite dreary. The traffic is terrible, the metro is always packed and let’s not even speak of the air quality. Let’s just say there are mine workers who breathe fresher than we do here in the capital. August humidity and rain, moreover isn’t really helping anyone. Luckily August has presented us with one long weekend as we get ready to celebrate our 70th Independence Day.That means it’s time to leave the bedlam of the capital behind and go-road tripping. Pack your bags, gather some friends or family and hit the open road. Fresh air and open roads, what could be a better balm for those wracked nerves? Despite being set in the planes, Delhi is also a stone throw away from the Himalayas which means there are some beautiful vistas and great driving roads just a stone’s throw away. So if you are a motoring enthusiast and are wondering where to drive/ ride to this long weekend, here’s our pick of driving destinations that are within a few hours of road travel from Delhi.
1.Neemrana (Distance: 144kms)
This one is the closest, at just 144 kms from Delhi. It’s a part of Rajasthan’s Alwar district. This means most of the journey will be on great highways that are lined with some really happening Dhabas. There’s a 16th-century fort that has been converted to a luxury heritage resort for those who’d like the royal treatment over the weekend. Now, this is a great family spot and even makes a great destination for a day-trip on motorcycles. So gather the family or your biking buddies and head out, make lots of stops along the way, and make a trip of it. You could even spend the evening sipping wine and watching some traditional Rajasthani folk dances, forget about work and just unwind.
2. Mussoorie (Distance: 276kms)
A mix of highways and switchbacks make Mussoorie one of the better driving or riding getaways from Delhi. Highways continue till the city of Dehradun, after which you get a heady mix of floating clouds, pine trees and seamless meadows. Add to that the wide serpentine mountain roads and you have a concoction to stir the enthusiast in the dreariest soul. We would advise you do this route in a nippy hatch-back if you have access to something like a Polo GT TSI, or a quick naked motorcycle. Although good roads right up to Mussoorie means that you get to take almost any vehicle up their. Once you do get their, you can just laze on the balcony of your resort and watch the day go by.
3. Kasauli (Distance: 288kms)
Another mountain road, because, well why not. Kasauli however, is not for the light hearted the road is quite badly tattered in some parts, which makes it the perfect route for an SUV or an ADV motorcycle if that is your kind of thing. What you can expect on route are breathtaking vistas and blue mountain ranges. Kasauli is also famous for fruit wines, so don’t forget to pick some up when you’re up there. Avoid this place if ground clearance is an issue on your vehicle.
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