Weekend Getaway: The ultimate staycation spots near Delhi NCR

The late autumn in Delhi leading to the winter is here. And trust me, this is probably the best season in the capital city. Though the smog has increased in leaps and bounds in the last few years due to stubble burning in the neighboring states of Haryana and Punjab, but once we pass that phase, it will be a delightful weather to enjoy.

The early morning begins with a nip in the air. A warm cup of tea feels pleasant. The evenings are chilly yet comfortable. And what’s better than traveling in this weather. You don’t necessarily need to take a mercury check of the destination be it Rajasthan or Goa and no pangs of carrying warm clothes as it’s not that cold. But wait! This year it’s the new normal. You cannot simply book a flight or train and head to Jaisalmer or Goa. Coronavirus cases are still rising. The government isn’t asking you stay home all the time, but traveling like earlier times is a big no. You need to take all precautions and travel. It’s okay if you are a young couple or a solo millennial but for people with families, traveling brings in a lot of handcuffs currently. And that’s where the experts are suggesting you take go on staycation, a weekend getaway to a nearby resort where you enjoy the luxe around. Basically, you indulge at the resort with food, drinks, swimming pool and a great spa. Take your family and friends and relish the short vacation.

This weekend, it’s Diwali. However, this year the government is discouraging people to burst crackers as the smoke afterwards can increase the breathlessness of Coronavirus patients. At such a juncture, when you cannot burst crackers nor could you party openly like earlier years, I suggest you take a fantastic staycation option. And where to go? Let me make it simpler. I shall suggest some options within two hours’ drive from Delhi NCR.

Within an Hour’s Drive from Delhi NCR

Radisson Blu Plaza Delhi Airport

If you need an escape that’s within easy reach, staycation at Radisson Blu Plaza Delhi Airport is a good option. They have ongoing offers till 31 December 2020. The packages include stay, breakfast and one major meal. Do remember, Chef Sreenivisan G at their NYC Restaurant cooks some amazing street food. If you like oriental cuisine, again he is the go-to chef.

Also, you just cannot miss the evening drink at Savannah Bar. This place boasts of some amazing cocktails. Do trust your sommelier with a drink to surprise you and he will do the needful. True to its name, this place draws inspiration hunting lodges of yesteryears.

R The Spa is another magic land to be. The staycation isn’t complete without a spa. And this place has a huge spa and therapy centre. The best part is this is Spa is of Radisson Hotel and not run by a third party like others. You can choose from Swedish massage to Panchakarma and even opt for a couple spa. The excellent masseuse will ensure you walk out relaxed.

And yes, this hotel is taking Covid precautions as well.

Staycation starts: Rs 4500 onwards.

Neung Roi, New Delhi’s most renowned and admired Thai restaurant, a hot favourite amongst the expats is also at Radisson Blu Plaza Delhi Airport. Try Thai beyond Red Curry and Green Curry.

Neung Roi Restaurant

Park Plaza Delhi CBD Shahdara

If you are in mood for some roasted meat or Mediterranean platter from Lebanon, Turkey, and Italy, Shish is the restaurant at Park Plaza you should head to. And after a hearty meal, you wouldn’t like to drive all the way home. It’s better you stay back, relax. The next morning, have a delicious breakfast at Promenade. This hotel offers good hospitality and great food.

Staycation starts: Rs 3600 onwards.

The Muse Sarovar Portico Kapashera

When you drive from Gurgaon to Delhi, ever wondered how calming your left side is. Amidst the farmhouses and jungle, there is a perfect staycation destination – fresh, peaceful and full of amenities.

Sarovar boasts of warmth and hospitality. While everything has gone contactless, the warmth remains intact. For a large group of six and eight people, it’s wiser to book their Friends and Family rooms. And when you feel hungry, you can head over to the Atrium Lounge and get some food and drinks. Right from in room dining to relaxing in the garden, you have every option to bask in the lazy afternoons. Yet, the swimming pool isn’t operational, so you need to miss out on water fun.

Staycation starts: Rs 3000 per night including breakfast.

Staycation options within two hours from Delhi

Treehouse Hotel Club & SPA Bhiwadi

If I hadn’t been here, I would have never believed there can be some much peace just 40 min away from Gurgaon’s hustle and bustle. Drive straight on the Gurgaon-Jaipur highway and take the left exit from the Best tech city in Bhiwadi. Early morning drives would take around half an hour from residential colonies of Gurgaon.

Welcome to Treehouse Hotel Club and Spa, Bhiwadi. The funny part is while this side of the road is Rajasthan the opposite side is Haryana. So, you can justify your staycation as well.

This is a majestic property far away from the noises of urban life. A 10-minute drive and you will find yourself in midst of a Rajasthani village with camels around. Take a deep breath and unwind.

Book yourself the presidential suite, which comes with two bedrooms, a huge living area as well a pantry. And the gem is the cellar, where you can wear the mixologist’s hat and do the magic all evening.

The all-day dining multi-cuisine restaurant Chips and Chappati is famous for Kaala Maas. The famed Laal Maas of Rajasthan (dried red chilli and lamb meat based curry) undergoes a secret preparation and become Kaala Maas. Request the chef for this if it isn’t listed. Besides, to keep guests healthy, the resort has formulated its own immunity-boosting menu that is a must try.

When you need to go out, visit the nearby Heritage Transport Museum, a very well maintain museum that preserves India’s oldest modes of transport including Mercedes ambulance, saloon train coaches and a lot more exciting things.

Yes, this hotel is Covid Precaution compliant.

Staycation starts: Rs 2,400 onwards

Karma Chalets

This is a very different experience altogether. If you are going on a staycation for the Diwali break, brace for a unique getaway. Nestled within 300 acres of greenery and fresh air at Karma Lakelands, Karma Chalets is a “well-kept secret!” Along with the tastefully appointed rooms you get to experience the Cafe 'Under The Neem' and 'Nimoli Spa' that complete the recipe for a most memorable experience that many have not yet discovered.