More Winter Road Trips with from Delhi/NCR: A Guide for Friends

As winter wraps Delhi in its crisp embrace, there’s no better time to gather your friends and hit the road for an unforgettable adventure. The capital’s strategic location makes it the perfect launching pad for exploring the winter wonderland of North India, with snow-capped peaks, cozy hill stations, and serene lakes all within driving distance. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping adventures or peaceful mountain retreats, these carefully curated destinations promise the perfect 3-5 day escape from city life.

Top Destinations from Delhi NCR

Kasauli, Himachal Pradesh

Perched at an altitude of 6,322 feet, Kasauli transforms into a magical destination during winter. Just 290 km from Delhi, this colonial-era hill station offers the perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. The winter months (December-February) bring temperatures ranging from 3°C to 14°C, creating perfect conditions for outdoor activities. The colonial architecture draped in winter mist and occasional light snowfall makes for Instagram-worthy moments.

Bhimtal, Uttarakhand

A lesser-known gem in the Kumaon region, Bhimtal lies 330 km from Delhi. This destination comes alive in winter with its crystal-clear lake reflecting the surrounding snow-dusted peaks. Winter temperatures hover between 5°C to 15°C, ideal for outdoor exploration. The absence of summer crowds makes it perfect for friends seeking peaceful lakeside conversations and nature walks.

Almora, Uttarakhand

At 365 km from Delhi, Almora offers an authentic Kumaoni experience with panoramic views of the Himalayas. Winter brings temperatures between 0°C to 10°C, with occasional snowfall in surrounding areas. The clear winter skies offer unparalleled views of Nanda Devi and Trishul peaks, making it a photographer’s paradise.

Dhanaulti, Uttarakhand

Just 320 km from Delhi, Dhanaulti is the perfect winter camping destination. Dense deodar forests and occasional snow make this lesser-explored hill station magical during winter months. Temperatures range from -2°C to 8°C, creating the perfect atmosphere for cozy bonfires and stargazing sessions.

Best Routes to Take

Delhi to Kasauli

Route: Delhi → Panipat → Ambala → Kalka → Kasauli
Distance: 290 km (6-7 hours)
Road Conditions: Well-maintained NH-44 up to Kalka, followed by scenic mountain roads

Key Stops:
Haveli, Murthal (famous parathas)
Yadgar Dhaba, Ambala (authentic Punjabi food)
Kalka Railway Station area (tea and snacks)

Delhi to Bhimtal

Route: Delhi → Ghaziabad → Moradabad → Rampur → Bhimtal
Distance: 330 km (8-9 hours)
Road Conditions: Smooth NH-9 and NH-109, with some mountainous terrain in the final stretch

Notable Stops:
Kumar Resort, Moradabad (clean washrooms and decent food)
Bhimtal Lake View restaurants (fresh local cuisine)

Delhi to Almora

Route: Delhi → Ghaziabad → Moradabad → Rampur → Bareilly → Kathgodam → Almora
Distance: 365 km (10-11 hours)

Road Conditions:
Smooth driving on NH-9 up to Kathgodam
Mountain roads from Kathgodam onwards with multiple hairpin bends
Road quality generally good but narrows in the final stretch

Notable Stops:
Gajraula Food Court (100 km mark, clean facilities)
Kathgodam Market (last major town before mountain ascent)
Bhowali Market (famous for fruit preserves and jams)
Multiple small tea shops with mountain views after Bhowali

Fuel Stations:
Indian Oil at Gajraula
HP Petrol Pump at Kathgodam
Last reliable fuel station at Bhowali

Safety Notes:
Start early to avoid night driving in mountains
Fog common between Delhi and Kathgodam in winter
Carry extra fuel after Kathgodam
Check brake fluid before mountain ascent

Delhi to Dhanaulti

Route: Delhi → Meerut → Muzaffarnagar → Dehradun → Mussoorie → Dhanaulti
Distance: 320 km (8-9 hours)

Road Conditions:

Excellent Delhi-Dehradun highway (NH-334)
Winding mountain roads after Dehradun
Some stretches under maintenance after Mussoorie
Possible snow and ice in winter after Mussoorie

Notable Stops:

Cheetal Grand, Muzaffarnagar (good breakfast stop)
Pacific Mall, Dehradun (last major shopping/food court)
Mussoorie Mall Road (halfway point after mountain start)
Suakholi market (last major settlement before Dhanaulti)

Fuel Stations:

Multiple options until Dehradun
HP Pump at Mussoorie (recommended fill-up point)
Small fuel station at Suakholi (emergency only)

Safety Notes:

Check weather conditions before Mussoorie stretch
Carry snow chains in peak winter
Limited mobile network after Mussoorie
Keep emergency numbers for local taxi services

Activities and Experiences

Adventure Sports

Paragliding at Bir Billing (day trip from Kasauli)
Rock climbing and rappelling in Dhanaulti
Mountain biking in Bhimtal
Trekking to Bright End Corner in Almora

Local Experiences

Sunrise photography at Mall Road, Kasauli
Cafe hopping in Bhimtal’s lakeside establishments
Traditional Kumaoni cooking classes in Almora
Camping under the stars in Dhanaulti

Must-Try Local Food

Tibetan cuisine at Kasauli’s Tibet Market
Fresh trout at Bhimtal’s Lake Cafes
Bal Mithai and locally grown coffee in Almora
Pine-scented honey and local jams in Dhanaulti

Tips for a Comfortable Road Trip

Winter Essentials

Thermal wear and heavy jackets
Emergency blankets and hot water bottles
Portable chargers and battery banks
First-aid kit with altitude sickness medication
Chains for tires in case of snow

Vehicle Preparation

Winter tire check and pressure adjustment
Antifreeze levels and battery health
Emergency tool kit and spare tire
Ice scraper and snow chains
Full tank policy (fuel stations are sparse in hills)

Accommodation Tips

Book stays in advance during peak winter season
Prefer properties with parking and heating
Carry booking confirmations in offline format
Keep local emergency contacts handy

Winter road trips from Delhi offer the perfect opportunity to create lasting memories with friends. Whether you’re huddled around a bonfire in Dhanaulti, capturing the sunrise over the Himalayas in Almora, or exploring the colonial charm of Kasauli, these destinations promise adventures that will strengthen your bonds and create stories worth sharing. Remember to drive safely,