10 Weekend Road Trips To Take From Chandigarh

Set against the scenic backdrop of the Shivalik Hills, Chandigarh stands out with its clean environment and meticulous urban planning. As the shared capital of Punjab and Haryana, the city offers a refreshing contrast to the usual hustle of Indian metros. It also serves as a gateway to the peaceful hills of Himachal, Uttarakhand, and the northern highlands. With a variety of stunning destinations nearby, planning an escape under ₹5000 is not only possible—it’s easy!

# Rupnagar

Once known as Ropar or Rupar, this ancient town is among the major Indus Valley Civilization sites. Legend has it that King Rokeshar named it after his son, Rup. Just 60 km away is the revered Naina Devi temple, perched atop a hill overlooking Gobind Sagar Lake. Don’t miss a visit to Anandpur Sahib, a sacred Sikh pilgrimage spot nearby, radiating spiritual peace.

# Amritsar

Roughly 227 km from Chandigarh, Amritsar is synonymous with the iconic Golden Temple. But there’s more to explore—watch the patriotic fervor at the Wagah Border ceremony and dive into history at the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum, which showcases the grandeur of the Sikh empire. This city offers a fulfilling getaway without breaking the bank.

# Chail

Just 113 km away, Chail is a peaceful retreat nestled in Himachal’s hills. A quieter alternative to Shimla, it’s perfect for unwinding. With hiking trails, fishing spots, and horse riding adventures, Chail offers a serene break just a two-hour drive from the city buzz.

# Shoghi

Located about 107 km from Chandigarh, Shoghi is a delightful hill getaway surrounded by oak and pine forests. Known for its natural beauty and locally made fruit preserves like pickles and syrups, this spot makes for a charming and budget-friendly escape into nature.

# Nahan

A hidden gem just 85 km from Chandigarh, Nahan is perfect for a quiet romantic escape. Surrounded by lush hills and rich biodiversity, it also offers trekking, fishing, and historical fort visits. This hill town truly blends nature and adventure in a serene setting.

# Patnitop

Perched on a plateau in Jammu & Kashmir, Patnitop is 409 km from Chandigarh and offers magnificent views of the Chenab basin and the Pir Panjal ranges. Ideal for peace-seekers, this destination delivers tranquility with a touch of natural grandeur—all within a modest budget.

# Sanasar

Adventure awaits at Sanasar, one of Jammu’s best-kept secrets. Located at 2050 meters, it’s a playground for thrill-seekers, offering paragliding, rock climbing, and trekking. With lush meadows and alpine views, Sanasar is perfect for those looking to combine excitement with scenic beauty.

# Sattal

A cluster of seven interconnected freshwater lakes, Sattal is a peaceful destination near Nainital, 494 km from Chandigarh. Surrounded by dense forests, this Uttarakhand retreat is perfect for nature lovers looking to disconnect and unwind.

# Lansdowne

Tucked away in Uttarakhand, 309 km from Chandigarh, Lansdowne is an old British-era cantonment town that offers pristine views and a laid-back vibe. Ideal for a quiet family trip or a nostalgic solo journey, it brings colonial charm to the Himalayan wilderness.

# Kanatal

Located on the scenic Chamba-Mussoorie route, Kanatal is a budget-friendly destination perfect for solitude seekers and campers. With its lush forests, cool breeze, and spots like Kaudia Forest and Surkanda Devi Temple, it’s a nature lover’s paradise.