11 Best Short Trips from Lucknow for a Perfect Weekend Getaway

Living in Lucknow, the city of Nawabs, is an experience full of rich culture, heritage, and amazing food. However, every once in a while, we all need a quick break from city life. Luckily, there are several fantastic weekend destinations near Lucknow that offer scenic beauty, history, adventure, and relaxation. If you’re looking for a short trips from Lucknow

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Here are perfect for weekend Short Trips from Lucknow

1. Dudhwa National Park – A Wildlife Lover’s Paradise

If you’re a nature lover or wildlife enthusiast, Dudhwa National Park is one of the best short trips from Lucknow. Known for its lush green forests, rare wildlife, and serene landscapes, this park is a great place for jeep safaris, birdwatching, and exploring the raw beauty of the Terai region.

Distance: 220 km
Time Taken: 5-6 hours

Major Attractions:

Jeep Safari – Spot tigers, elephants, and rhinos in their natural habitat.
Frog Temple – A unique temple shaped like a frog.
Banke Tal and Sathiana – Perfect for birdwatching.

Estimated Budget per Person:

Transportation: ₹600-1,000 (bus or cab).
Safari & Entry Fees: ₹1,500-2,500 per vehicle.
Stay: ₹1,200-2,500 per night in forest lodges or nearby hotels.

Pro Tip: Visit between November and June for the best wildlife sightings!

2. Ayodhya – The Birthplace of Lord Rama

For those seeking a spiritual and historical getaway, Ayodhya is an excellent choice. Known as the birthplace of Lord Rama, Ayodhya is filled with ancient temples, sacred ghats, and rich heritage. Whether you’re looking for religious significance or architectural beauty, this city offers both.

📍 Distance: 135 km
⏳ Time Taken: 3-4 hours

Major Attractions:

Ram Janmabhoomi Temple – The birthplace of Lord Rama.
Hanuman Garhi – A hilltop temple offering scenic views.
Saryu River Ghats – Perfect for evening aartis and boat rides.

Estimated Budget per Person:

Transportation: ₹300-600 (bus or shared cab).
Food: ₹200-500 per day (affordable vegetarian meals).
Stay: ₹500-1,500 per night in budget hotels or dharamshalas.

Pro Tip: Visit during Diwali or Ram Navami to witness grand celebrations and beautifully lit temples!

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3. Naimisharanya – A Mythological Retreat

If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat with spiritual significance, then Naimisharanya is the place to go. It is believed to be the center of the universe in Hindu mythology and is filled with ancient temples, sacred ponds, and serene landscapes.

📍 Distance: 90 km
⏳ Time Taken: 2-3 hours

Major Attractions:

Chakra Tirtha – The spot where Lord Vishnu’s Sudarshan Chakra fell.
Hanuman Garhi Temple – A powerful spiritual site.
Vyas Gaddi – The place where Maharishi Vyas composed the Mahabharata.

Estimated Budget per Person:

Transportation: ₹200-500 (bus or cab).
Food: ₹150-400 per day (local vegetarian food).
Stay: ₹500-1,200 per night in dharamshalas or budget hotels.

Pro Tip: Wake up early and take a dip in the holy Gomti River for a rejuvenating experience!

4. Chitrakoot – The Land of Lord Rama’s Exile

Chitrakoot is a blend of spirituality, history, and natural beauty. Known for its connection with Lord Rama’s exile, this sacred town offers scenic waterfalls, ancient temples, and mesmerizing landscapes.

📍 Distance: 230 km
⏳ Time Taken: 5-6 hours

Major Attractions:

Kamadgiri Hill – A sacred hill that devotees circumambulate.
Ramghat – Famous for evening aartis on the Mandakini River.
Bharat Milap Temple – The place where Bharat met Lord Rama during exile.

Estimated Budget per Person:

Transportation: ₹600-1,200 (bus or train).
Food: ₹200-500 per day (affordable meals at ashrams and dhabas).
Stay: ₹600-1,500 per night in guesthouses and budget hotels.

Pro Tip: Visit Gupt Godavari Caves, a fascinating cave temple with underground water streams!

5. Varanasi – The Spiritual Capital of India

Varanasi, one of the oldest cities in the world, is a cultural and spiritual hub that attracts travelers from across the globe. Whether it’s witnessing the grand Ganga Aarti, exploring ancient temples, or walking through its bustling lanes, Varanasi offers an experience like no other.

📍 Distance: 320 km
⏳ Time Taken: 6-7 hours

Major Attractions:

Kashi Vishwanath Temple – One of the most sacred temples of Lord Shiva.
Dashashwamedh Ghat – Famous for evening Ganga Aarti.
Sarnath – A Buddhist pilgrimage site where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon.

Estimated Budget per Person:

Transportation: ₹500-1,000 (bus/train).
Food: ₹300-600 per day (delicious street food & local delicacies).
Stay: ₹600-1,500 per night in budget hotels or dharamshalas.

Pro Tip: Wake up early to witness the stunning sunrise boat ride on the Ganges!

6. Prayagraj – The City of Sangam

Prayagraj, formerly known as Allahabad, is famous for its Triveni Sangam, where the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers converge. It is a sacred pilgrimage site and also home to historical landmarks and Mughal-era architecture.

📍 Distance: 200 km
⏳ Time Taken: 5-6 hours

Major Attractions:

Triveni Sangam – Take a holy dip at this sacred confluence.
Allahabad Fort – Built by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century.
Anand Bhavan – The ancestral home of Jawaharlal Nehru.

Estimated Budget per Person:

Transportation: ₹400-800 (bus/train).
Food: ₹200-500 per day (street food & local cuisine).
Stay: ₹600-1,200 per night in budget hotels.

Pro Tip: Visit during the Kumbh Mela or Magh Mela for a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

7. Bhitargaon – A Hidden Architectural Gem

If you’re a history lover, then Bhitargaon is a must-visit. It houses one of the oldest surviving brick temples in India, dating back to the Gupta era (5th century). This offbeat destination offers a blend of history, heritage, and peace.

📍 Distance: 150 km
⏳ Time Taken: 3-4 hours

Major Attractions:

Bhitargaon Temple – The oldest brick temple in India with unique terracotta carvings.
Nearby Villages – Experience rural Uttar Pradesh and its traditions.

Estimated Budget per Person:

Transportation: ₹300-600 (bus/train).
Food: ₹150-300 per day (local eateries).
Stay: ₹500-1,000 per night (Kanpur or nearby guesthouses).

Pro Tip: Hire a local guide to understand the historical and architectural significance of the temple!

8. Kanpur – The Industrial Hub with Hidden Wonders

Kanpur is known for its industries, but it also has some interesting places to explore for a short getaway. From historical landmarks to beautiful parks, the city has a lot to offer.

📍 Distance: 90 km
⏳ Time Taken: 2-3 hours

Major Attractions:

Bithoor – A mythological town on the banks of the Ganga.
Kanpur Zoological Park – Perfect for a family trip.
Blue World Theme Park – Great for a fun weekend escape.

Estimated Budget per Person:

Transportation: ₹200-500 (bus/train).
Food: ₹200-500 per day (try famous Thaggu Ke Laddoo).
Stay: ₹600-1,500 per night in budget hotels.

Pro Tip: Visit Bithoor early in the morning for a peaceful sunrise on the Ganges!

9. Shravasti – The Land of Buddhism

Shravasti is one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in India, where Lord Buddha spent 24 rainy seasons preaching to his disciples. It’s a peaceful, offbeat destination perfect for meditation and history enthusiasts.

📍 Distance: 160 km
⏳ Time Taken: 4-5 hours

Major Attractions:

Jetavana Monastery – One of the oldest Buddhist monasteries.
Angulimala Stupa – A significant Buddhist site.
Anathapindika Stupa – Another important historical site.

Estimated Budget per Person:

Transportation: ₹400-800 (bus/train).
Food: ₹200-400 per day.
Stay: ₹500-1,200 per night in dharamshalas and budget hotels.

Pro Tip: Visit during Buddha Purnima for special celebrations!

10. Rewa – The Land of White Tigers

If you’re interested in wildlife and history, Rewa is a great budget-friendly destination. It’s famous for being the origin of white tigers in India and offers royal palaces and scenic waterfalls.

📍 Distance: 240 km
⏳ Time Taken: 5-6 hours

Major Attractions:

White Tiger Safari & Zoo – See the legendary white tigers.
Rewa Fort – A historical palace of the Rewa kingdom.
Keoti Waterfall – A beautiful, offbeat natural wonder.

Estimated Budget per Person:

Transportation: ₹600-1,000 (bus/train).
Food: ₹300-500 per day.
Stay: ₹700-1,500 per night in budget hotels.

Pro Tip: Visit Keoti Waterfall after the monsoons for the best views!

11. Khajuraho – The Temple Town of India

If you love art, history, and architecture, Khajuraho is a must-visit. Famous for its UNESCO-listed temples with intricate carvings, this place offers a unique historical experience. Read also: Visiting Khajuraho guide for Foreign Travelers

📍 Distance: 280 km
⏳ Time Taken: 6-7 hours

Major Attractions:

Western Group of Temples – Home to stunning sculptures and carvings.
Light & Sound Show – Learn about Khajuraho’s history in a spectacular show.
Panna National Park – Great for a short wildlife safari.

Estimated Budget per Person:

Transportation: ₹600-1,200 (bus/train).
Food: ₹300-500 per day.
Stay: ₹700-1,500 per night.

Pro Tip: Visit in February during the Khajuraho Dance Festival for a spectacular cultural experience!

Final Thoughts

From wildlife sanctuaries and historical towns to spiritual retreats and adventure getaways, these 11 short trips from Lucknow are perfect for a weekend escape. Whether you’re looking for peace, history, or adventure, there’s something for everyone!

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11 Short Trips from Lucknow for a Perfect Weekend Getaway

Here are perfect for weekend Short Trips from Lucknow