Long weekends are made for road trips, slow mornings, and places that aren’t already trending on every travel reel. If you're craving a quiet break away from the city grind — but without the chaos of overly crowded tourist spots — we’ve got you covered.

Here are six offbeat getaways, two each from Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, that are perfect a quick, refreshing escape.

From Delhi- Quiet Hill Escapes Without the Manali Madness

If you live in Delhi or the NCR, and want a break from crowded hill stations, these quiet retreats provide cool mountain air, beautiful scenery, and lots of chances to connect with nature in a relaxed environment.

Pangot, Uttarakhand (310 km / 7-8 hrs drive) 

Pangot, a paradise for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts, is only a short drive from the well-known Nainital. With more than 200 bird species, from brilliant flycatchers to shy woodpeckers — this charming village set amid pine and oak woods offers perfect early morning birdwatching and photography opportunities.

Rustic homestays providing breathtaking views of the neighbouring valleys, ideal for those seeking to disconnect from technology and city noise increase Pangot's serenity. Beyond birdwatching, you can indulge in quiet nature hikes along forest routes, local village interactions, and the clean mountain air that refreshes the mind and body.

Lansdowne, Uttarakhand (280 km / 6-7 hrs drive)

Away from the bustle of more commercial hill towns, Lansdowne is a calm cantonment city rich in colonial-era charm. With its misty mornings, calm lakes, and thick pine forests, it has a soothing environment ideal for leisurely discovery. 

Boating on the serene Bhulla Lake, or simply walking on peaceful pathways encircled with tall deodars, you can hike to vistas like Tip-in-Top for sweeping Himalayan panoramas. There are a few small cafés and local markets in the city where you could take in the quiet beat of life. Low tourist footfall in Lansdowne guarantees you area and quiet to breathe and revitalize your spirit.

From Mumbai- Offbeat Escapes Just a Drive Away

If you’re in Mumbai and craving greenery and fresh air, these two hidden gems provide adventure, natural beauty, and tranquillity away from the city bustle.

Kamshet, Maharashtra (110 km / 2.5-3 hrs drive)

Best recognized as a paragliding destination, Kamshet draws adrenaline junkies wanting to soar over the rich Western Ghats. With rolling hills and valleys spanning as far as the eye can view, the aerial panoramic vistas are breath-taking. 

Apart from flying, Kamshet's allure rests in its historic Buddhist cave temples that offer a peek into the deep history and spiritual legacy of the area. Relaxing by the serene lakes, picnics set among lush vegetation, and farmhouse lodgings that provide a rustic nation experience may also aid in relaxation. With its laid-back atmosphere and virgin scenery, it offers a perfect getaway from the furious pace of Mumbai existence.

Tamhini Ghat, Maharashtra (140 km / 3.5-4 hrs drive)

Tamhini Ghat is a dream for a nature lover particularly during the monsoon season when the whole area turns lush green and waterfalls come alive. Less commercialized, this picturesque mountain road lets tourists experience unspoiled forests, mist-shrouded mountains, and tumbling waterfalls without the throng. 

Ideal activities include laid-back drives on meandering roads, quick climbs to viewpoints and hidden waterfalls, and simply taking in the calm atmosphere. Away from the city noise, several eco-resorts and campgrounds tucked in the woods offer comfortable rooms where you can hear the symphony of rain and bird melodies.

From Bengaluru- Hidden Retreats with Soul and Scenery

Those in Bengaluru searching for unusual escapes beyond the typical Coorg or Chikmagalur options will discover beautiful natural beauty and quiet surroundings at these two sites.

Gandikota, Andhra Pradesh (280 km / 6 hrs drive)

Often referred to as the Grand Canyon of India, Gandikota's spectacular gorge carved by the Penna River, framed by towering rock cliffs and old ruins. Offering breath-taking views and engaging history, the historic Gandikota Fort proudly on the edge of this stunning terrain. 

Visitors can check the fort’s bastions, hidden tunnels, and temples then camp close to the canyon for a night under the stars. From a different angle, kayaking on the calm Penna River lets you see the beauty of the canyon. For adventure enthusiasts and history buffs alike, Gandikota's rough, untamed environment and sparse crowds make it the ideal location.

Agumbe, Karnataka (380 km / 7.5 hrs drive)

Agumbe, sometimes referred to as the South's Cherrapunji for its great precipitation, is a lush rainforest rich in biodiversity. Trekking its dense, misty woods exposes amazing waterfalls, rare flora, and elusive wildlife including the renowned king cobra. 

Agumbe’s remote location means fewer tourists and more tranquil experiences —from sunrise views atop sunset sites to calm nights at homely Malnad-style homestays offering genuine local food. Those wishing to completely immerse themselves in nature, breathe crisp mountain air, and see the magical enchantment of the Western Ghats should visit this great location.

Skip the crowds. Drive a few hours. Find peace, nature, and stories worth telling! These destinations prove that sometimes the best escapes aren’t the busiest—they’re quietly waiting off the beaten path.