Great hotels around Delhi for a weekend with family

Snow, safari or history—whatever your family is in the mood for is available just a few hours from the capital

The Bagh

Imagine sharing space with 300 avian species and 50 different mammals! The Bagh is located near the Keoladeo Ghana National Park, and almost seems to be part of it. For stress-busting, the hotel has a library, 2.5km of walkways, and the orchard, from where it draws its name. The biggest draw however is the garage. A 1946 Chrysler Plymouth, a 1918 Ford Model-T, a 1938 Morris Ten-Series III and a Jeep from WW-II offer nostalgia for elders and wonder for kids.

Hotel Corbett Wilds

Located within the Corbett Tiger Reserve, Hotel Corbett Wilds has 16 rooms offering fabulous views of sunsets and moonlit nights across the river Kosi. With Corbett Falls just 15km away, and a safari that starts at your doorstep, you feel you’re truly in the wild. Corbett Wilds is a basic, well-placed hotel that wins bonus points for its extraordinary views. Try booking the Mud Huts for a rustic experience.

Camp Bliss

For a truly magical experience, stay at the luxury tents during the Pushkar Camel Fair in November. Camp Bliss’ 20 tents force you to redefine your idea of camping. Traditional block-printed canvas walls, handmade furniture, separate bathrooms with hot and cold water and yes, even a private restroom. What’s more, they even have room service. Besides the colourful spectacle that is the fair, the Camp also arranges Manganiyar musical performances.

Banon Resorts

On the edge of the town of Manali, Banon Resorts is a good option if you want to mix sightseeing with some rest and relaxation. The Beas river, Hadimba Temple, the old Manali village, and Tibetan monasteries are all nearby. The luxury cottages have been designed to give you your own private garden, and the rooms on the top floors have excellent views of Manali. The hotel was built 100 years ago, and the old-world charm is very much intact.

The Orchard Greens

They have the largest open-air garden café in town, located in the greenest part of Manali. Crisp mountain air, trekking, and if the weather permits, a spot of skiing should be on your agenda. The rooms offer some stunning views, but we suggest you seek the concierge’s advice on treks, fishing trips, and adventure sports. Families can also bond over the bonfire or at the badminton court.

Aalia

For some, a safari is akin to a spiritual journey. At Aalia, it is possible to reconcile both. The luxury villas are on the banks of the Ganga and the hotel will organise a ride to watch the Ganga aarti at Haridwar. Alternatively, you can always pack in the family for a jeep safari to the Rajaji National Park. You are likely to spot a few elephants, or if you’re lucky, even a leopard or two. Come back to spend the evening in your Jacuzzi overlooking the infinity pool.