From Delhi to Doon: Best 2-Day Treks You Can Do Over a Weekend

If you live in Delhi and are looking to escape the busy city life for a quick weekend adventure, trekking in the Doon Valley is a perfect option. The region around Dehradun and its surroundings offers a mix of scenic trails, rivers, and mountain views that can be explored in just two days. In this article, we will guide you through the best 2-day treks from Delhi to Doon that are suitable for beginners and experienced trekkers alike.

Why Choose Doon for a Weekend Trek?

Doon Valley, located in Uttarakhand, is surrounded by the Himalayas on one side and green plains on the other. The region is known for its pleasant weather, lush forests, and easy access from Delhi. Some key reasons to choose Doon for a weekend trek include:

• Close to Delhi: Most trekking spots in Doon are reachable within 6–8 hours by road or train.

• Variety of Trails: From forested paths to river-side trails, there are options for all fitness levels.

• Scenic Beauty: You can enjoy panoramic mountain views, waterfalls, and wildlife.

• Short Duration: 2-day treks are ideal for a weekend getaway without tiring yourself.

How to Reach Doon from Delhi

Traveling from Delhi to Doon is simple:

• By Road: You can drive or take a bus from Delhi to Dehradun. The journey takes around 6–8 hours depending on traffic.

• By Train: Several trains run from Delhi to Dehradun, such as Nanda Devi Express or Dehradun Shatabdi. The travel time is around 6–7 hours.

• By Air: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is well-connected to Delhi. From the airport, you can hire a taxi to reach your trek starting point.

Best 2-Day Treks from Delhi to Doon

Here are some of the best weekend treks you can try:

1. Kempty Falls Trek

Distance from Delhi: 260 km
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Duration: 2 Days

Kempty Falls is one of the most popular trekking destinations near Dehradun. The trek passes through lush green forests and small villages. The waterfall itself is a great place to relax and enjoy nature.

Highlights:

• Scenic waterfall and river views

• Camping near the falls

• Photography opportunities

Tips:

• Carry swimming gear if you want to enjoy the water.

• Avoid weekends in peak season to skip crowds.

2. Nag Tibba Trek

Distance from Delhi: 300 km
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Duration: 2 Days

Nag Tibba trek is the highest peak in the Garhwal region of Doon Valley and is perfect for a short weekend trek. The trail passes through dense forests, quiet villages, and open meadows, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas.

Highlights:

• Sunrise and sunset views from the peak

• Dense pine and oak forests along the way

• Ideal for beginners and intermediate trekkers

Tips:

• Start early to reach the peak before noon.

• Carry warm clothing as temperatures can drop sharply at night.

• Camping at the base or summit is recommended for the full experience.

3. Dhanaulti to Mussoorie Trek

Distance from Delhi: 290 km
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Duration: 2 Days

This trek starts from Dhanaulti, a quiet hill station near Dehradun, and ends in Mussoorie. The trail is filled with pine forests, scenic viewpoints, and small tea stalls along the way.

Highlights:

• Sunrise and sunset views over the Himalayas

• Quiet forest trails

• Explore Mussoorie’s Mall Road in the evening

Tips:

• Start early to reach Mussoorie by evening.

• Carry warm clothes as temperatures can drop in the night.

4. Benog Wildlife Sanctuary Trek

Distance from Delhi: 280 km
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Duration: 2 Days

The Benog Wildlife Sanctuary trek is ideal for nature lovers. It passes through dense forests, meadows, and offers a chance to spot birds and wildlife.

Highlights:

• Peaceful natural surroundings

• Great spot for birdwatching

• Camping amidst nature

Tips:

• Carry insect repellent.

• Respect wildlife and avoid littering.

5. Rajaji National Park Trek

Distance from Delhi: 240 km
Difficulty Level: Easy
Duration: 2 Days

Rajaji National Park is known for its dense forests and elephant sightings. A 2-day trek here is perfect for beginners and families. You can combine trekking with a jeep safari in the park.

Highlights:

• Spotting elephants, deer, and birds

• Easy trails suitable for beginners

• Nature photography

Tips:

• Trek with a guide to ensure safety inside the park.

• Carry water and snacks as there are limited facilities inside the park.

Tips for a Weekend Trek from Delhi to Doon

1. Plan Your Transport in Advance: Roads can get crowded during weekends. Booking a bus or train early saves time.

2. Pack Light: For 2-day treks, carry only essentials like water, snacks, clothes, first-aid, and a flashlight.

3. Check Weather Forecast: Himalayan weather can change quickly. Carry raincoats and warm clothes.

4. Start Early: To make the most of your trek, start early from Delhi.

5. Carry Cash: Some trekking spots don’t have ATMs nearby.

What to Carry on a 2-Day Trek

• Comfortable trekking shoes

• Light backpack

• Water bottles and snacks

• First aid kit

• Warm clothing and rain gear

• Flashlight or headlamp

• Mobile phone with power bank

Conclusion

A weekend trek from Delhi to Doon is an ideal way to escape the city and reconnect with nature. Whether you want to relax near a waterfall, conquer a peak like Nag Tibba, explore forest trails, or enjoy mountain views, the Doon Valley has something for everyone. Planning a 2-day trek is simple, and with the right preparation, you can enjoy a memorable adventure without feeling rushed.

Trek, explore, and make your weekend unforgettable!