9 Hidden Weekend Drives Near Chandigarh by Self Drive Car (Under 150 km)

Not every weekend getaway needs a long drive to Shimla or Manali. Sometimes, the best trips are the ones that take you away from busy tourist spots and let you enjoy a quieter side of the hills, explore historical places, or spend a few peaceful hours in nature.

If you live in Chandigarh, Panchkula, or Mohali, there are several interesting destinations you can explore without planning a long holiday. From peaceful lakes and heritage gardens to forest roads and hilltop views, these places make great options for a quick escape.

With a self drive car in Chandigarh, you can leave when you want, take breaks along the way, and plan your trip at your own pace. ODAC24 makes self-drive car rental an option worth considering for weekend travel, whether you are planning a short morning outing or an overnight stay.

Here are nine weekend drives near Chandigarh to add to your travel list.

1. Morni Hills and Tikkar Taal – Around 45 km

If you want a break from city traffic without spending hours on the road, Morni Hills is a good place to start. Located in Haryana, this peaceful hill destination is known for its green surroundings, winding roads, and scenic views.

Tikkar Taal is one of the main attractions in the area. You can spend time near the lakes, enjoy the natural surroundings, and take a relaxed drive through the hills.

A hatchback is generally suitable for this journey in normal road conditions. Start early if you prefer quieter roads and cooler weather.

Best for: Nature lovers, couples, and short family outings.

2. Pinjore Gardens and Bhima Devi Temple Site – Around 22 km

You do not always need to travel far to enjoy a change of scenery. Pinjore Gardens, also known as Yadavindra Gardens, offers landscaped terraces, fountains, and historic architecture just outside Chandigarh.

You can take a leisurely walk through the gardens, spend time with family, and enjoy a relaxed morning away from your usual routine. The nearby Bhima Devi Temple site can add a historical element to your outing.

The short distance makes this trip suitable for almost any comfortable car.

Best for: Families, history enthusiasts, and half-day trips.

3. Bhakra Nangal Dam – Around 110 km

For travellers who enjoy impressive engineering structures and scenic landscapes, a drive towards Bhakra Nangal can be an interesting experience.

The route takes you through the Ropar region towards the Sutlej River and the surrounding hills. The reservoir and dam area offer a different experience from the usual hill-station getaway.

A hatchback or sedan is generally suitable for the highway journey. However, access to the dam and certain surrounding areas may be restricted, so check visitor permissions and entry requirements before leaving.

Best for: Scenic drives, engineering enthusiasts, and planned day trips.

4. Chail – Around 110 km

Chail is a lovely choice if you want to spend more time among trees and mountain scenery. Known for its deodar forests, cooler climate, and historic cricket ground, the hill destination offers a quieter alternative to some of the busier tourist centres.

The winding mountain roads make the drive part of the experience. You can explore the surroundings, enjoy local food, and stay overnight if you want a slower weekend.

A sedan or small SUV may offer extra comfort on the hill sections, although the right choice depends on the road conditions and your driving experience.

Best for: Couples, nature lovers, and overnight trips.

5. Barog and Kandaghat – Around 80 km

If you enjoy old railway stations, mountain views, and peaceful cafés, consider driving towards Barog and Kandaghat.

Barog is known for its connection to the historic Kalka–Shimla railway and its railway tunnel. The area offers a relaxed mountain atmosphere without requiring a lengthy journey from Chandigarh.

You can enjoy the drive, stop for refreshments, and spend some time taking in the surrounding views. Depending on your schedule, you can return the same day or turn the trip into an overnight stay.

A hatchback or sedan is generally suitable for this route in normal conditions.

Best for: Couples, photography enthusiasts, and relaxed weekend drives.

6. Nada Sahib Gurudwara and the Sukhna Catchment Area – Around 15 km

Not every getaway needs to involve a hill climb. Sometimes, a short drive is enough to clear your head and enjoy a different part of the Tricity.

Gurudwara Nada Sahib, near the Ghaggar River, is a well-known spiritual destination where visitors come for prayer and peaceful reflection. You can combine the visit with time around the Sukhna catchment area, while respecting local access rules and designated nature areas.

Since the journey is short, any suitable car will do. It is an easy option for an early morning outing or a quiet half-day plan.

Best for: Peaceful mornings, spiritual visits, and short drives.

7. Nalagarh Fort – Around 60 km

For a weekend outing with a little history, head towards Nalagarh Fort. Set against the Shivalik landscape, the historic fort offers a glimpse into the region's heritage and a change from the usual shopping and café plans.

Depending on visitor access and the property's current arrangements, you may be able to explore the heritage setting, enjoy the views, or plan a meal during your visit.

The drive is manageable in a hatchback or sedan, making this an option for travellers who want to keep their plans simple.

Best for: History lovers, couples, and relaxed day trips.

8. Kasauli – Around 60–70 km

Kasauli is a popular hill destination, but it can still be a refreshing weekend choice if you plan your visit thoughtfully. Its forested surroundings, colonial-era character, and walking routes make it appealing for travellers who want a slower pace.

You can explore permitted walking areas, enjoy local cafés, and take in the mountain atmosphere without rushing from one attraction to another.

A hatchback or sedan is suitable for many travellers, provided you are comfortable with hill driving. Parking can become limited during busy periods, so an early start may help.

Best for: Couples, small groups, and relaxed hill getaways.

9. Renuka Lake – Around 120–140 km

If you have a full day available and want to explore beyond the usual destinations, consider a drive towards Renuka Lake in Himachal Pradesh.

Surrounded by green hills, the lake offers a peaceful natural setting and a welcome change from city life. You can spend time enjoying the scenery, taking photographs, and exploring the surrounding area where visitor access is permitted.

Since this is a longer drive, plan your fuel stops, check the weather and road conditions, and allow enough time for the return journey. A comfortable hatchback or sedan can work well under suitable driving conditions.

Best for: Nature lovers, photographers, and full-day road trips.

Note: Distances are approximate one-way estimates from the Chandigarh area and can vary depending on your starting point and route. Check current directions, road conditions, opening hours, and access restrictions before travelling.

Quick Guide to Weekend Drives Near Chandigarh

Why Choose a Self Drive Car for Weekend Trips?

A weekend getaway should feel relaxing, not like another task to organise. Booking a taxi for a longer outing can involve arranging pickup times, discussing return plans, and managing changes to your itinerary.

With a self-drive car, you have more control over your schedule. You can leave early, stop for breakfast, explore a viewpoint, or spend extra time at a destination without planning every move around a driver.

Here are a few reasons to consider a self-drive rental:

• Flexible timing: Plan your departure and return according to your day.
• More privacy: Enjoy the journey with family, friends, or your partner.
• Freedom to stop: Take breaks for photographs, food, and scenic views where it is safe and permitted.
• Choice of vehicle: Select a hatchback, sedan, or SUV based on your group size and journey.
• No long-term ownership commitment: Rent a car for the period you need instead of maintaining your own vehicle year-round.

Before booking with ODAC24, compare rental duration, kilometre limits, fuel policy, security deposit, and any outstation restrictions. These details will help you plan your weekend budget more accurately.

Plan Your Next Weekend Drive with ODAC24

You do not need to wait for a long holiday to explore somewhere new. A short drive from Chandigarh can take you to a quiet lake, a historic garden, a peaceful hill destination, or a scenic stretch of mountain road.

ODAC24 gives you a brand to explore when looking for self-drive car rental options for your next outing. Choose a vehicle that suits your plans, check the booking conditions, and map out your route before starting your journey.

Whether you are planning a half-day escape to Pinjore, a drive through Morni Hills, or an overnight trip to Chail, the right car can make the journey more convenient.

Make your next weekend about the road, the views, and the places you discover along the way.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are some short weekend drives near Chandigarh?

Morni Hills, Pinjore Gardens, Nada Sahib, and Nalagarh Fort are options for relatively short drives from Chandigarh. Your choice depends on how much time you have and whether you prefer nature, history, or a peaceful outing.

2. Which destinations near Chandigarh are suitable for a self-drive day trip?

Pinjore Gardens, Morni Hills, Kasauli, and Nalagarh Fort can work as day trips, depending on traffic, your starting point, and how long you want to stay. Longer drives may require an early departure.

3. Do I need an SUV for weekend drives near Chandigarh?

Not necessarily. A hatchback or sedan is suitable for many of these routes under normal road conditions. A small SUV may offer additional ground clearance or cabin space, but always choose a vehicle that suits the route and your driving experience.

4. Can I rent a self-drive car for an overnight trip?

Rental duration depends on the provider's available plans and booking conditions. Check the permitted rental period, return time, kilometre allowance, and outstation rules before confirming your booking with ODAC24.

5. Is a self-drive car convenient for family trips?

Yes. It can make family travel more convenient by providing private space for passengers and belongings. Choose a vehicle with enough seating and luggage capacity for everyone travelling.

6. What should I check before starting a weekend road trip?

Check your route, weather, fuel level, vehicle condition, driving licence, and rental agreement. For hill journeys, allow extra travel time and avoid driving on unfamiliar mountain roads when tired or in poor weather.

7. Can I take an ODAC24 rental car to Himachal Pradesh?

Travel permissions depend on the vehicle and the rental agreement. Confirm that your intended destination is allowed and check any state-entry, kilometre, or additional-charge conditions with ODAC24 before departure.

8. How can I book a self-drive car with ODAC24?

Visit the official ODAC24 website, check available vehicles and rental plans, and follow the booking process. Review the total cost, required documents, and booking terms before confirming your reservation.