Lucknow, the capital city of Uttar Pradesh and often called the ‘City of Nawabs,’ is a vibrant destination with its rich history and cultural heritage. While the city itself is a treasure trove of attractions, sometimes a change of scenery is just what you need to unwind. If you’re looking for a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of Lucknow, check out these 15 amazing weekend getaways that offer everything from serene landscapes to historical marvels.
Top Weekend Getaways from Lucknow
Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient heritage sites, embarking on an adventure, or simply soaking in the local culture, these destinations make perfect weekend retreats from Lucknow.
Within 100-200 km
- Shravasti | 157 km
- Overview: Known for its Buddhist heritage, Shravasti was once the capital of the Koshai kingdom and a place where Gautam Buddha spent a significant time.
- How to Reach: Via NH927
- Highlights: Pakki Kuti, Kachchi Kuti, Shobnath Jain Temple, Jetavena Monastery, Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary
- Average Cost: ₹4,500 per person per day
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- Ayodhya | 163 km
- Overview: A significant religious site, Ayodhya is famed as the birthplace of Lord Rama and is dotted with temples and ghats.
- How to Reach: Via NH27
- Highlights: Hanuman Garhi, Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, Kanak Bhawan, Dashrath Temple
- Average Cost: ₹1,360 per person per day
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
Within 200-300 km
- Allahabad (Prayagraj) | 201 km
- Overview: Renowned for its spiritual significance and the confluence of the Yamuna, Ganga, and Saraswati rivers, Allahabad is home to the Maha Kumbh Mela.
- How to Reach: Via Lucknow Road/Raibareli Road
- Highlights: Triveni Sangam, Anand Bhavan, Allahabad Fort, Bade Hanuman Jee Temple
- Average Cost: ₹1,200 – ₹1,500 per person per day
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- Dudhwa National Park | 215 km
- Overview: A haven for wildlife enthusiasts, this park features dense forests and is home to diverse wildlife including rhinos and tigers.
- How to Reach: Via Sitapur Road and SH90
- Highlights: Thapar Resort, Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary, Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary
- Average Cost: ₹4,000 per person per day
- Best Time to Visit: November to June
- Chitrakoot | 230 km
- Overview: Steeped in mythology and lush greenery, Chitrakoot is linked to the Ramayana and offers a mix of temples, waterfalls, and spiritual sites.
- How to Reach: Via Lucknow Road or Raibareli Road
- Highlights: Jagdal Waterfall, Bharat Milap Mandir, Ramghat, Hanuman Dhara
- Average Cost: ₹1,640 per person per day
- Best Time to Visit: July to March
Within 300-400 km
- Khajuraho | 307 km
- Overview: Famous for its stunning temples adorned with intricate sculptures, Khajuraho is a UNESCO World Heritage site offering remarkable architecture.
- How to Reach: Via NH34
- Highlights: Kalinjar Fort, Dulhadev Temple, Lakshmana Temple, Raneh Falls
- Average Cost: ₹1,500 – ₹2,000 per person per day
- Best Time to Visit: October to February
- Orchha | 318 km
- Overview: Known for its historical monuments and lush surroundings, Orchha was the seat of Bundela Rajput kings and boasts a rich heritage.
- How to Reach: Via NH27
- Highlights: Shri Ram Raja Mandir, Orchha Fort, Jhansi Fort
- Average Cost: ₹1,500 – ₹2,000 per person per day
- Best Time to Visit: November to February
- Agra | 318 km
- Overview: Home to the iconic Taj Mahal, Agra offers a blend of historical sites, bustling markets, and delectable cuisine.
- How to Reach: Via Agra-Lucknow Expressway
- Highlights: Fatehpur Sikri, Jama Masjid, Mehtab Bagh, Wildlife SOS
- Average Cost: ₹1,500 – ₹2,000 per person per day
- Best Time to Visit: December and January
- Varanasi | 335 km
- Overview: The spiritual heart of India, Varanasi is known for its ghats, temples, and vibrant cultural experiences.
- How to Reach: Via NH28
- Highlights: Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Manikarnika Ghat, Assi Ghat
- Average Cost: ₹1,500 – ₹2,000 per person per day
- Best Time to Visit: November to February
- Gwalior | 352 km
- Overview: Famous for its grand fort and historical sites, Gwalior is a treat for history buffs and features stunning heritage hotels.
- How to Reach: Via NH719 and Agra-Lucknow Expressway
- Highlights: Gwalior Fort, Jai Vilas Palace Museum, Sun Temple
- Average Cost: ₹2,500 – ₹3,500 per person per day
- Best Time to Visit: September to February
- Nainital | 382 km
- Overview: Nestled around the picturesque Naini Lake, Nainital is known for its pleasant weather, scenic views, and charming heritage buildings.
- How to Reach: Via NH30
- Highlights: Mall Road, Eco Cave Gardens, Tiffin Top, Bhimtal Lake
- Average Cost: ₹2,000 – ₹3,000 per person per day
- Best Time to Visit: March to June
Within 400-600 km
- Ranikhet | 435 km
- Overview: This idyllic hill station, also known as ‘Queen’s Meadow,’ offers stunning views, pleasant weather, and serene landscapes.
- How to Reach: Via NH730
- Highlights: Mankameshwar Temple, Haidakhan Babaji Temple, Chaubatia Orchard
- Average Cost: ₹4,000 – ₹5,000 per person per day
- Best Time to Visit: February to November
- Almora | 439 km
- Overview: Known for its breathtaking Himalayan views and lush forests, Almora is a tranquil retreat with historical significance.
- How to Reach: Via NH30
- Highlights: Zero Point, Kasar Devi Temple, Jageshwar
- Average Cost: ₹4,000 – ₹5,000 per person per day
- Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to November
- Pithoragarh | 449 km
- Overview: Often called ‘Little Kashmir,’ Pithoragarh is known for its raw natural beauty and is a base for pilgrims heading to Kailash Mansarover.
- How to Reach: Via NH9
- Highlights: Pithoragarh Fort, Nakuleshwar Temple, Chandak
- Average Cost: ₹1,500 – ₹2,500 per person per day
- Best Time to Visit: April to November
- Auli | 655 km
- Overview: A paradise for skiing enthusiasts, Auli is surrounded by oak and coniferous forests and offers stunning views of the Garhwal Himalayas.
- How to Reach: Via NH109
- Highlights: Auli Artificial Lake, Chhatrakund, Gorson Bugyal
- Average Cost: ₹3,500 – ₹4,500 per person per day
- Best Time to Visit: November to March
List of best weekend getaways Places from Lucknow
| Place | Distance From Lucknow |
| Shravasti | 157 kms |
| Ayodhya | 163 kms |
| Allahabad | 201 kms |
| Dudhwa National Park | 215.3 kms |
| Chitrakoot | 229.6 kms |
| Khajuraho | 306.6 kms |
| Orchha | 318.4 kms |
| Agra | 318.4 kms |
| Varanasi | 334.8 kms |
| Gwalior | 351.9 |
| Nainital | 381.9 kms |
| Ranikhet | 435 kms |
| Almora | 438.8 kms |
| Pithoragrah | 449.2 kms |
| Auli | 655.3 kms |
Conclusion
While Lucknow stands as a cultural and historical epicenter, its surroundings offer a wealth of diverse experiences. From the serene hills of Ranikhet to the architectural wonders of Khajuraho, these 15 weekend getaways promise to refresh and invigorate. Pack your bags and set out for a memorable escape from the everyday routine!
