Delhiites are always on the lookout for quick and refreshing weekend escapes to beat the urban chaos. However, not every traveler is looking to splurge. For students, backpackers, and budget explorers, a weekend trip under ₹1000 may sound like a dream—but it’s entirely possible!
Thanks to Delhi’s central location and excellent connectivity via buses, trains, and metro lines, there are several serene and culturally rich places you can visit without burning a hole in your pocket. Here’s a detailed list of weekend getaways near Delhi that you can explore for under ₹1000, covering travel costs, activities, food options, and key attractions.
1. Murthal, Haryana – The Dhaba Delight
- Distance from Delhi: 50 km
- Travel Cost (by bus or bike): ₹100-₹150 (round trip)
- Why Visit: Famous for its iconic roadside dhabas and parathas, Murthal is the closest culinary getaway.
- Activities: Eat at Amrik Sukhdev, enjoy a long drive, relax in the fields.
- Budget Tips: Share rides or take Haryana Roadways buses; stick to water instead of fizzy drinks to save.
2. Manesar, Haryana – A Rural Retreat
- Distance from Delhi: 60 km
- Travel Cost: ₹120-₹150 (via bus or bike)
- Why Visit: A developing industrial town that also offers peaceful countryside experiences.
- Activities: Visit heritage farms, enjoy village-style food, walk through local markets.
- Budget Tip: Carry home-packed meals and enjoy a picnic at a farm retreat.
3. Damdama Lake, Haryana – For Nature Lovers
- Distance from Delhi: 60 km
- Travel Cost: ₹100-₹200 (shared auto/bike/bus)
- Why Visit: One of the biggest natural lakes in Haryana, perfect for day trips.
- Activities: Boating (some free or under ₹50), nature walk, birdwatching.
- Budget Tips: Avoid private taxis; bring your own snacks and water bottles.
4. Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary, Gurugram
- Distance from Delhi: 40 km
- Travel Cost: ₹100 (bus or train)
- Entry Fee: ₹50
- Why Visit: A paradise for bird watchers, especially during migratory season (Oct–Feb).
- Activities: Nature photography, spotting rare birds, peaceful walks.
- Budget Tips: Pack your own lunch; visit early morning to cover it all in half a day.
5. Tughlaqabad Fort, Delhi – Hidden Historical Gem
- Distance from Central Delhi: 20 km
- Travel Cost (Metro + Auto): ₹50-₹70
- Entry Fee: ₹25 (Indians)
- Why Visit: A ruined fort with hauntingly beautiful architecture and history.
- Activities: Explore the massive walls, photography, storytelling sessions.
- Budget Tip: Travel via Delhi Metro and explore on foot.
6. Okhla Bird Sanctuary, Noida
- Distance: 15 km
- Travel Cost (Metro): ₹30-₹40
- Entry Fee: ₹30-₹40
- Why Visit: An urban escape for birdwatching and scenic views along the Yamuna River.
- Activities: Early morning walk, bird photography, sketching or journaling in silence.
- Budget Tips: Bring a thermos of tea and homemade breakfast for a peaceful outing.
7. Surajkund, Faridabad
- Distance: 25 km
- Travel Cost: ₹50-₹80 (Metro + Auto)
- Why Visit: Famous for its handicraft fair in February, but a quiet place throughout the year.
- Activities: Visit the fair (if in season), enjoy local food, explore Surajkund Lake.
- Budget Tip: Best visited during non-fair days to avoid ticket costs.
8. Majnu ka Tilla, Delhi – Mini Tibet
- Distance: 10 km from ISBT
- Travel Cost: ₹20-₹30 (Metro)
- Why Visit: A Tibetan colony full of vibrant culture, food, and spirituality.
- Activities: Explore Tibetan temples, try thukpa and momos, buy handicrafts.
- Budget Tip: Stick to street food; walk instead of hiring autos.
9. Lodhi Gardens & Khan Market Walk
- Distance: Central Delhi
- Travel Cost: ₹30 (Metro)
- Why Visit: A heritage park that blends nature and Mughal architecture, great for picnics.
- Activities: Reading under trees, free yoga sessions, amateur photography.
- Budget Tip: Bring your own food and tea; relax for a day in peace.
10. India Gate to Rashtrapati Bhavan Walk
- Distance: 2-3 km stretch
- Travel Cost: ₹30 (Metro)
- Why Visit: Iconic Delhi experience; best at sunrise or evening.
- Activities: Walk, picnic, photo ops, and national pride.
- Budget Tip: Use public restrooms and carry your own water.
How to Plan a Trip Under ₹1000?
To make your weekend getaway affordable and fulfilling:
- Use Delhi Metro: It connects to most parts of NCR and is cheap.
- Travel in groups: Splitting costs for food, transportation, and guides saves a lot.
- Eat Local: Try roadside dhabas or small food stalls.
- Avoid unnecessary shopping: Stick to experiences rather than souvenirs.
- Start early: Cover more in less time, avoid rush hours, and reduce costs.
- Carry essentials: Water, snacks, cap, and power bank to avoid buying.
Ideal for Whom?
These trips are perfect for:
- College students on a tight budget
- Backpackers
- Photography enthusiasts
- Young professionals seeking digital detox
- Nature lovers and history buffs
Bonus Tips:
- Carry your student ID – you might get extra discounts at monuments.
- Download Google Maps offline for areas with weak signals.
- Wear comfortable shoes – you’ll be walking a lot.
- Keep a reusable water bottle – saves money and the planet.