Delhi’s temperature crosses 46°C: Best nearby escapes under 300 km for a cool weekend trip

Delhi’s summer has officially turned unbearable, brutal and burning! The temperatures in several parts of Delhi NCR have crossed 46°C mark and the India Meteorological Department (IMD) is issuing heatwave alerts almost every other day. Meanwhile, Delhiites are desperately looking for escapes from the oven-like conditions. But the good news here is, you do not have to book costly flight tickets or spend days planning a long holiday. For Delhi people, the best part is there are some amazing cooler and cheaper spaces within 300 km. There are several cooler hill towns, forest retreats and mountain getaways where temperatures are significantly lower, mornings absolutely dreamy and pleasant, and evenings breathable!

Here are five cooler escapes perfect for a quick summer break from Delhi’s extreme hot and humid temperatures.

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Temperature in summer: 18°C to 28°C

Mussoorie is the first name that comes to mind and why not! The “Queen of the Hills” is about 290 km from Delhi and is easy to reach. The only tip is; don’t plan on the weekends as traffic jams and long waiting hours are a major turnoff. Set in the Garhwal Himalayas, Mussoorie offers crisp mountain air and beautiful sunsets that feel worlds away from Delhi’s mounting heat.

Travel tip: If you can, leave Delhi before sunrise to avoid NCR traffic and afternoon heat. Weekdays are the best, no rush, no crowd.

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Temperature in summer: 20°C to 30°C

Lansdowne is a quieter alternative to crowded hill stations near Delhi NCR. For those looking for peace and not for traffic jams, Lansdowne is among the best options near Delhi. This stunning cantonment town in Uttarakhand is all about pine forests, colonial-era buildings and scenic mountain viewpoints. For some very blessed reasons, Lansdowne still feels untouched by mass tourism. Some prominent attractions here include Bhulla Lake, Tip-in-Top viewpoint and St. Mary’s Church.

Travel tip: Most hotels here focus on nature stays and mountain views.

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Temperature in summer: 25°C to 35°C

Rishikesh may not be as cold as the other hill stations on the list, it scores high on cool level because of its riverside setting and climate. The evening breeze here makes it far more comfortable than Delhi’s extreme heat conditions. For travellers who just want to sit and relax away from Delhi’s unbearable weather, Rishikesh makes for an excellent choice.

Travel tip: Riverside camps offer a much calmer experience.

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Temperature in summer: 19°C to 27°C
Kasauli is one of the best places for slow travellers, who want to take a pause, sit and sip their coffee while finishing reading that long pending book. The hill town is known for its British-era architecture and pine-covered slopes. The walking trails here are extremely peaceful and don’t miss out on exploring the gorgeous Gilbert Trail, Sunset Point and Christ Church.
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Travel tip: Book accommodations in much-in-advance during May and June.

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Temperature in summer: 22°C to 32°C

Nahan is among those places that travellers often overlook and that is why it is so precious. Set in Himachal Pradesh’s Sirmaur district, the place enjoys best weather, fewer tourists and green landscapes. Renuka Lake here is among the biggest attractions. Nahan is perfect for families looking for quieter escapes.
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Travel tip: Combine Nahan with a short visit to Renuka Ji. Don’t miss it.