Working hard all along the week is simply tiring and causes unusual boredom at times and when the same routine is followed for a longer duration, boredom gets mixed with monotony. You simply wish to run away but that is not an option. So, it will not be a bad notion to plan a weekend trip with family or friends or acquaintances or simply all by yourself. The weekends and extended weekends (if got lucky) are a great way to relax and revive your sinking energy level. Many of us feel that two days are not much to explore a place and driving or travelling via other modes will consume most of the time. With this thinking, we do not think of any weekend holiday plan outside our city and remain confined in our homes either glued to television or busy in completing pending personal chores. There are several holiday destinations which can be visited easily during the weekends and not only that, you may enjoy every bit of it. Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand are such States in India which have destinations not only breathtaking but are easily accessible and do not require much time to reach. 

Chail which is located in Himachal Pradesh is a beautiful hill station, secluded and truly incredible. The hill station which was summer capital of Maharaja of Patiala has Chail Palace which is known for its architectural design, Chail Sanctuary, Kali ka Tibba and highest Cricket ground respectively. It may simply prove to be a great weekend trip for you. And yes, the place is a hiker’s paradise in true sense. Another beautiful destination for the weekend vacation plan may be Kasauli which is known for its unusual charm and beauty amidst pine forests and orchards. The long walks in Kasauli which is devoid of crowds are simply mystic. Monkey Point from where one may view Chandigarh and river Satluj and Christ Church are worth visiting. When we are discussing options for weekend holiday trip, Kufri needs to be mentioned. The hill station derives its meaning from a word ‘ Kufr’ which means lake in local language. Himalayan Wildlife Zoo nestles in this beautiful place which is known for rare antelopes, felines and birds including Himalayan Monal which is the state bird of Himachal Pradesh. Chini Bungalow, Kufri Fun World add much to the scenic beauty scattered all around. The annual winter sports festival at Kufri is a must attend for everyone. Despite an industrial town, Parwanoo has retained its charm and impeccable beauty which is quite visible from beautiful orchards and greenery spread all across. Once in Parwanoo, you cannot miss Timber Trail cable car ride. 

We have mentioned a few places which may be chosen as weekend getaway destination but the list will remain incomplete if we do not talk about capital of Himachal Pradesh, Shimla. The place still retains colonial charm and has much to offer to travelers and tourists visiting the place. The beauty may be described as picture perfect used in postcards and the best bit is that you will not get tired of visiting the hill station even if you visit it repeatedly. The Mall Road, Jhakoo Hills and Temple, The Ridge, Christ Church, Rashtrapati Niwas are a few places which may be visited for certain and yes the journey from Kalka to Shimla in Toy Train is simply unforgettable.

If we focus our attention towards Uttarakhand and plan to choose a destination for our weekend vacation, choices are myriad. The preferred choice for many of us remains Mussoorie which offers glimpse of snow covered Himalayan peaks of western Garhwal and terrific view of Dehradun valley. The Mall Road, Kulri Bazaar, peaceful Landour which houses Mullingar Estate, the Castle Hill Estate and famous Woodstock School cannot be missed out. Further, Tibbi Point, Jharipani Falls and Kempty Falls are places that add much enjoyment to the visit. One of other destinations for weekend may be nothing better than Rishikesh which has emerged as an international hub for yoga and meditation. The destination is located at the confluence of rivers Ganges and Chandrabhaga and is known for white water rafting during summers for those who crave for adventure. If you are visiting Rishikesh, you will find yourself to be lucky to participate in sunset aarti of Holy Ganges and may visit Lakshman Jhoola, Swargashram, Triveni Ghat and Bharat Mandir which will not only bring much required peace of mind but will fulfill your spiritual appetite. 

Another destination for the weekend trip may be Lansdowne which is known for natural beauty and pleasant weather. The place is somewhat untouched and is miles away from urbanization. Bhulla Lake, Tiffin Top, St. Mary’s Church, War Museum, Shiv Kapleshwar Temple and Bhim Pakora are places which can be visited once you land at Lansdowne. As we cannot leave mentioning Shimla in Himachal Pradesh, the list of weekend getaways will not get completed without talking about Nainital. It is Lake District of India as dotted with lakes all around. The hill station is surrounded by seven hills and is covered with crystal clear lakes and greenery all over. The place is ideal for all kinds of tourists ranging from those who visit to relax and enjoy to serious anglers. The places which can be visited here are Naina Devi Temple, Nainital Zoo, Governor House, Cheena Peak, Dorothy Seat, Land’s End and Khurpatal.  In addition to this, you may visit Gurney House, Hanumangarh and Observatory respectively.

So, do not wait and plan your weekend trip to revive yourself in toto.