Why Buranskhanda Should Be Your Next Weekend Getaway from Delhi?

Discover Buranskhanda, a hidden gem in Uttarakhand, perfect for a serene weekend getaway from Delhi, which is ideal for couples and families. Explore nature, stay in luxury accommodation, and visit nearby attractions.

If you’re someone like me who has been overwhelmed by the chaos of big city life and is looking for a quick escape from Delhi for a weekend getaway, you have reached the right place. On the one hand, I wouldn’t say I like staying in Delhi because of the terrible weather, pollution, traffic, and the general arrogance of people. Still, on the other hand, I feel blessed to stay in a city close to many beautiful and unique destinations that are ideal for perfect weekend getaways from Delhi. While I have visited most of the hill stations near Delhi, such as Shimla, Thanedar, Kasauli, Chail, McLeodGanj, Dalhousie, Mussoorie, Dehradun, Kanatal, Lansdowne, Nainital, Bhimtal, and many more, I recently stumbled upon Buranskhanda, a hidden gem nestled in the serene hills of Uttarakhand.

Just 5 km before Dhanaulti, 26 km from Mussoorie, 60km from Dehradun and 300 km from Delhi, this place promised a peaceful retreat away from the crowds—a promise it more than delivered. In this article, I’ll share my weekend getaway journey from Delhi, my reasons why Buranskhanda is an ideal destination for a quick weekend trip, a property review of where I stayed – Barefoot Bungalow, what to see in and around Buranskhanda, where to go next and practical tips you need to keep in mind while planning short weekend trips from Delhi to nearby weekend getaways.

Day 1: A Weekend Getaway from Delhi – The Journey Begins

I started my journey from Delhi early, around 7 AM, hoping to avoid the usual traffic snarl-ups. I took the following route from Delhi to Buranskhanda:

Delhi – Meerut – Muzaffarnagar – Roorkee – Haridwar – Dehradun – Mussoorie – Buranskhanda.

While Google Maps estimated it would take 7 hours and 26 minutes to cover the 348 km from my home to Burans Khanda, I took over 12 hours due to two pitstops and colossal traffic jams. I wasn’t in a rush, so I drove at a relaxed pace.

The roads were in decent condition, but I encountered congestion near Dehradun, including a 5 km traffic jam near Rajaji National Park that ate up all the time I saved by starting early. The last stretch of the drive, winding through the hills, was absolutely breathtaking, though it got darker, and the roads narrowed after Mussoorie. The air turned cooler, and the views more spectacular. By the time I reached Buranskhanda, it had started raining. It was pitch dark, and I was a bit tired from driving in the rain. But as soon as I stepped out of the car, the crisp, cool air and a refreshing AQI of 23 instantly revived me.

Day 1: Arriving at Barefoot Buranskhanda – An Honest Review

Upon arriving at Barefoot Bungalow at Buranskhanda, I knew I had made the right choice. This luxury villa in Mussoorie offered a perfect blend of comfort and adventure, making it an ideal place for weekend getaways from Delhi. Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly or luxurious escapes, Barefoot Bungalow has something for everyone.

The bungalow’s location in Buranskhanda was simply unbeatable. It’s close enough to Dhanaulti and Mussoorie yet far enough to offer complete peace and seclusion. If you’re seeking a mix of adventure and relaxation for the weekend near Delhi, this is it. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Mussoorie, this place feels like a nature retreat, with stunning valley views on both sides. The air was fresh, and I was told the place is wonderful to visit year-round, whether to escape the summer heat or enjoy winter snowfall.

As I entered the bungalow, I was greeted with a warm Himalayan Welcome Drink in a glasshouse with a live kitchen, dining area, and a cosy library. The Bungalow’s wood-accented interiors exude warmth and cosines. The tall French windows provide stunning views of the surrounding Deodar forests and distant snow-capped peaks. Unlike hotels, where privacy is often lacking, here you can book the entire villa exclusively for a family or group of 6-8 friends for ₹55,000 INR plus GST, which gives you full access to all facilities. Alternatively, you can book single rooms at ₹19,999 INR or double rooms at ₹36,000 INR. The 25,000 sq. ft. Bungalow offered a luxury homestay experience in Mussoorie, comparable to the best hotels in Mussoorie with five-star facilities.

 It featured three bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a spacious living-cum-dining hall. The MP teak wood interiors and modern white-beige furnishings gave it a regal touch. The bathrooms were equipped with premium toiletries and separate shower cubicles. Modern amenities included a generator, fireplace, heating, Wi-Fi, indoor games, a lawn, a gazebo, and secure parking. It was also wheelchair-friendly, making it accessible for all.

Outside my room was a 14,000 sq. ft. manicured garden with water features and fruit trees, including apricots and apples. I spent hours in this garden, both during the day and at night. A sunny breakfast in the morning and cosy evenings by the bonfire, barbecue, and live music were highlights of my stay.

After the long drive, I settled into my room, took a deep breath of the crisp mountain air, and felt all the stress of city life melt away. That evening, I enjoyed a quiet dinner prepared by Chef Arjun. The food was delicious—simple yet hearty—just what I needed after a long day. As I sat in the cosy dining room, savouring my meal, the warmth of the place enveloped me, making me feel right at home. The food at Barefoot Bungalow was the highlight of my stay. Each meal was freshly prepared with local ingredients, and the flavours were both comforting and exciting. Whether it was the homely dinner on the first night or the elaborate lunch on Day 2, the food was consistently excellent.

The staff at Barefoot Bungalow were exceptional. They went out of their way to ensure I had a comfortable stay. Chef Arjun’s culinary skills were particularly impressive, and the warm, personalised service made me feel more like a guest in a friend’s home than a customer.

Day 2: Exploring the Surroundings

While there was plenty to do inside the Bungalow, the surrounding area offered numerous activities, such as hiking in the nearby hills, indulging in adventure sports at High Fly Adventures, visiting the Eco-Park at Dhanaulti, or exploring the Sarkhunda Devi Temple at Kanatal and the Tehri Dam. And that’s exactly what I did over the next two days.

The next morning, I woke up to the sound of birds chirping and the sight of mist rolling over the hills. After a hearty breakfast, I decided to take a village walk, one of the activities offered by the bungalow. Walking through the village was like stepping back in time. The simplicity of life, the villagers’ warmth, and the landscape’s beauty were humbling. I even met a few school kids who gifted me Himalayan apricots.

After the walk, I returned to the bungalow for a sumptuous lunch. Chef Arjun outdid himself again with a spread that featured local ingredients and flavours. The meal was not just about eating; it was an experience, a connection to the land and its people.

In the evening, I took a stroll around Buranskhanda. I encountered several budget properties like Snow Adventure Camp and Cottages, and On The Rocks Camps and Café. They offered a small zipline and Burma Bridge, though I got stuck midway on the zipline. I’m unsure if they have the proper equipment, staff, and licenses for these adventure activities. However, the owners, who hail from larger cities, seemed laid-back, having set up these properties to fulfil their passion for adventure.

As night fell, I returned to Barefoot Buranskhanda for a delicious barbecue dinner.

Day 3: Visiting Sarkhunda Devi Temple and Dhanaulti

The next day, I visited the Surkanda Devi temple near Dhanaulti. As per the legend, the Surkanda Devi temple is a Shaktipeeth where Goddess Sati’s head fell after her body, carried by Lord Shiva, was cut into pieces by Lord Vishnu. This temple is highly revered by followers of the Shaktipeeth. To visit, one must trek 1.5 km to reach the hilltop.

After visiting the temple, I returned to Dhanaulti, just a short drive from the bungalow. You might wonder, “What is special in Dhanaulti?” The answer lies in its untouched beauty and serene environment. Dhanaulti is known for its Eco Park, a peaceful spot with dense forests of Deodar and Oak. The park is perfect for a leisurely stroll, and the views from here are mesmerizing. As the day drew close, I found a quiet spot to watch the sunset, and I was not disappointed. The sky turned shades of orange and pink, and the entire valley was bathed in a golden glow—a sight that will stay with me for a long time.

Is Dhanaulti worth staying? Absolutely. If you’re looking for a quiet, peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of Mussoorie, Dhanaulti is a perfect choice for a short weekend getaway from Delhi. Unlike other popular hill stations, Dhanaulti is less commercialized, allowing visitors to truly connect with nature. I spent some time here before heading back to the Bungalow.

Day 4: Heading Back to Delhi

On the final day, I reluctantly packed my bags, not quite ready to leave this little piece of paradise. This weekend getaway from Delhi had been everything I had hoped for—peaceful, rejuvenating, and full of memorable experiences. After breakfast, I bid farewell to the Bungalow and its warm hospitality.

The drive back to Delhi started smoothly, but as I approached Dehradun, I again got caught in some heavy traffic, compounded by torrential rain. The weather made the journey a bit challenging, but the memories of my stay at Barefoot Bungalow kept me in good spirits.

In conclusion, if you’re searching for a weekend getaway from Delhi that offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and stunning natural beauty, I highly recommend Barefoot Bungalow in Buranskhanda. It’s not just a place to stay; it’s an experience that will leave you with lasting memories.

Where to go next – Places to See Near Burans Khanda

If you’re staying at Barefoot Bungalow, there are plenty of attractions nearby to explore. Dhanaulti’s Eco Park is a must-visit for nature lovers, offering serene walks amidst dense forests. You might wonder, “Which is better, Mussoorie or Dhanaulti?” While Mussoorie is more commercialized with its bustling Mall Road and popular attractions like Kempty Falls, Dhanaulti offers a quieter, more peaceful alternative. Each has its own charm, and your preference would depend on the kind of experience you’re seeking.

With its vibrant energy and more tourist-oriented spots, Mussoorie is just a short drive away. Kanatal, another nearby gem, offers breathtaking views and is perfect for a day of relaxation or light trekking. For those seeking more adventure, Tehri Lake is a fantastic spot for water sports, where you can indulge in activities like jet skiing and boating. Additionally, the historic town of Landour, with its colonial architecture and quaint cafes, is well worth a visit for a taste of local history and culture. There are many luxury rental villas near Delhi that are available in all these destinations, like Kaudia Estate in Kanatal and the Ridge House By Himalayan Eco Lodges in Landour.

Mussoorie 4-Day Itinerary for a Weekend Getaway from Delhi

• Day 1: Start early from Delhi. Enjoy the scenic drive and reach Barefoot Bungalow by late afternoon. Relax, unwind, and enjoy a quiet dinner.
• Day 2: After breakfast, take a village walk and enjoy the adventure games or a hike.
• Day 3: Visit Surkhnada Devi Temple and Dhanaulti’s Eco Park. Enjoy the sunset and return to the bungalow for a cosy evening by the fireplace.
• Day 4: Depart after breakfast. On the way back, you can explore Mussoorie or Landour before returning to Delhi.

Practical Travel Tips for Your Next Weekend Getaways from Delhi

If you’re looking for weekend trip options near Delhi, consider planning a trip to Buranskhanda and Barefoot Bungalow. Here are some practical tips to help you plan your next weekend getaways from Delhi:

• Best Time to Visit: While you can visit Buranskhanda year-round, the best time is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant and the landscape is most beautiful.
• How to Get There: The drive from Delhi to Buranskhanda is about 300 km and takes approximately 8-10 hours, depending on traffic. The roads are generally good but be prepared for some narrow, winding sections as you approach the hills.
• What to Pack: Even in the summer months, the hills can get chilly, especially in the evenings: pack layers, comfortable walking shoes, and a good book to enjoy during your stay.
• How many days are enough for Buranskhanda and Dhanaulti? A weekend—about two to three days—is just the right amount of time to soak in the area’s tranquillity and explore its scenic beauty.
• Where to Eat: The Bungalow offers excellent dining options, but if you’re in the mood to explore, there are a few local eateries in Dhanaulti and Mussoorie worth checking out.
• Where to stay: Although I stayed at Barefoot Bungalow, a luxury villa, you can find both luxury and budget properties in Buranskhanda, Dhanulti and Mussorie.
• Activities: Don’t miss the village walk offered by the Bungalow. It’s a great way to connect with the local community and learn more about their way of life. Also, consider visiting the Sarkhunda Devi Temple and the Eco Park in Dhanaulti.

For more ideas on weekend getaways from Delhi, be sure to check out my other travel guides and luxury villa reviews. Whether you’re looking for a quick escape or a longer adventure, a destination awaits your weekend getaways from Delhi.

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