Delhi’s strategic location in the heart of North India makes it a perfect starting point for travelers looking to explore the surrounding regions’ rich cultural, historical, and natural beauty. This guide highlights 15 must-visit cities accessible from Delhi, offering diverse experiences from royal palaces to scenic landscapes. Plus, with the convenience of booking through redBus, planning your journey becomes easier and more comfortable.
1. Jaipur, Rajasthan
- Distance from Delhi: Approximately 280 km
- Travel Time: 5 to 6 hours by bus
- Attractions: Amber Fort, City Palace, Hawa Mahal
- Book your ticket on redBus: Jaipur from Delhi
Jaipur, the ‘Pink City’, is renowned for its rich Rajput history and stunning architecture. It’s a part of the famous Golden Triangle tourist circuit and offers a spectacular array of sights like the Jal Mahal and the Jantar Mantar.
2. Agra, Uttar Pradesh
- Distance from Delhi: About 230 km
- Travel Time: 3 to 4 hours by bus
- Attractions: Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri
- Book your ticket on redBus: Agra from Delhi
Agra is home to the iconic Taj Mahal, symbolizing eternal love. The city’s historical significance as the heart of the Mughal empire offers visitors a deep dive into India’s rich heritage.
3. Chandigarh, Punjab
- Distance from Delhi: Around 260 km
- Travel Time: 4 to 5 hours by bus
- Attractions: Rock Garden, Sukhna Lake, Rose Garden
- Book your ticket on redBus: Chandigarh from Delhi
Chandigarh, designed by the famous architect Le Corbusier, serves as a gateway to the hills of Himachal Pradesh. It is known for its organized structure and lush greenery.
4. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
- Distance from Delhi: About 240 km
- Travel Time: 5 to 6 hours by bus
- Attractions: Laxman Jhula, Triveni Ghat, adventure sports
- Book your ticket on redBus: Rishikesh from Delhi
Rishikesh is a serene town by the Ganges, famous for its yoga retreats and as the ‘World’s Yoga Capital’. The city also offers thrilling activities like river rafting and bungee jumping.
5. Amritsar, Punjab
- Distance from Delhi: Approximately 450 km
- Travel Time: 8 hours by bus
- Attractions: Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh, Wagah Border
- Book your ticket on redBus: Amritsar from Delhi
Amritsar, the spiritual capital of the Sikhs, is home to the Harmandir Sahib, commonly known as the Golden Temple. It’s a place of great beauty and sublime tranquility.
6. Dehradun, Uttarakhand
- Distance from Delhi: 250 km
- Travel Time: 5 to 6 hours by bus
- Attractions: Robber’s Cave, Sahastradhara, Clock Tower
- Book your ticket on redBus: Dehradun from Delhi
Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, Dehradun boasts a scenic backdrop, pleasant climate, and a tranquil environment, making it perfect for nature lovers and those seeking peace.
7. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
- Distance from Delhi: About 800 km
- Travel Time: 12 to 14 hours by bus
- Attractions: Ghats of Varanasi, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, boat rides on the Ganges
- Book your ticket on redBus: Varanasi from Delhi
Varanasi is one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities and a major spiritual hub in India. It offers a profound cultural experience with its ancient ghats and vibrant rituals.
8. Haridwar, Uttarakhand
- Distance from Delhi: About 220 km
- Travel Time: 5 hours by bus
- Attractions: Har Ki Pauri, Mansa Devi Temple, evening Ganga Aarti
- Book your ticket on redBus: Haridwar from Delhi
Haridwar is another significant pilgrimage site where the Ganges exits the Himalayan foothills. The evening Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri is a mesmerizing experience not to be missed.
9. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
- Distance from Delhi: About 360 km
- Travel Time: 7 to 8 hours by bus
- Attractions: The Mall, Christ Church, Kufri
- Book your ticket on redBus: Shimla from Delhi
The colonial-era summer capital, Shimla, is famous for its Victorian architecture, pleasant weather, and stunning views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks.
10. Udaipur, Rajasthan
- Distance from Delhi: Approximately 670 km
- Travel Time: 10 to 12 hours by bus
- Attractions: City Palace, Lake Pichola, Jag Mandir
- Book your ticket on redBus: Udaipur from Delhi
Udaipur, known as the ‘City of Lakes’, mesmerizes visitors with its intricate architecture and the tranquil waters of Lake Pichola. It’s a must-visit for those seeking a romantic getaway.
11. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
- Distance from Delhi: About 290 km
- Travel Time: 7 to 8 hours by bus
- Attractions: Kempty Falls, Gun Hill, Camel’s Back Road
- Book your ticket on redBus: Mussoorie from Delhi
Known as the ‘Queen of the Hills’, Mussoorie provides a respite from the heat with its cool climate, making it an ideal destination for trekking and sightseeing.
12. Nainital, Uttarakhand
- Distance from Delhi: 320 km
- Travel Time: 7 to 8 hours by bus
- Attractions: Naini Lake, Eco Cave Gardens, The Mall Road
- Book your ticket on redBus: Nainital from Delhi
Nainital charms visitors with its emerald lake, colonial charm, and panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
13. Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
- Distance from Delhi: About 780 km
- Travel Time: 12 to 14 hours by bus
- Attractions: Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon Ki Haveli, Thar Desert
- Book your ticket on redBus: Jaisalmer from Delhi
Jaisalmer, the ‘Golden City’, is celebrated for its beautiful yellow sandstone architecture and the vast Thar Desert, offering an unforgettable desert safari experience.
14. Manali, Himachal Pradesh
- Distance from Delhi: About 540 km
- Travel Time: 12 to 14 hours by bus
- Attractions: Solang Valley, Hadimba Temple, Rohtang Pass
- Book your ticket on redBus: Manali from Delhi
Manali is a hotspot for adventurers and nature lovers, known for its breathtaking landscapes and trekking, paragliding, and skiing opportunities.
15. Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
- Distance from Delhi: About 500 km
- Travel Time: 8 to 10 hours by bus
- Attractions: Bara Imambara, Chota Imambara, Rumi Darwaza
- Book your ticket on redBus: Lucknow from Delhi
The city of Nawabs, Lucknow is famous for its culinary heritage, intricate embroidery, and stately monuments, offering a deep dive into the cultural richness of the Awadh region.
Conclusion
Each of these cities offers a unique glimpse into the diverse tapestry of India’s heritage, making them perfect destinations for those venturing from Delhi. With redBus, you can book your tickets easily, ensuring a seamless travel experience as you explore the historical and natural wonders surrounding the capital. Ready to embark on your journey? Book your bus tickets now and dive into the adventure that awaits!