Weekends at Pilani are often hectic, as they are quickly filled with upcoming tut tests, club work, or other commitments. However, in the rare instances where a weekend can be spared, it makes sense to have a change in scenery and run away from all your problems on a weekend trip with your friends.

From the artistic architecture of Jaipur to the scenic spots in Alwar, there is no shortage of places to visit. This guide will mention some of the more common places people go on these trips. There are attractions, parks, temples, and cafes, all worth visiting, but they cannot be squeezed into a single trip. Therefore, be sure to prepare an itinerary or schedule well in advance to ensure a smooth visit.

DELHI

The first and most obvious choice for many people as a weekend getaway will be Delhi, and for good reason. Located about five hours away from Pilani, Delhi offers everything you could ever want in a weekend trip. The city can be visited year-round, though it may be wise to choose a long weekend for the trip to make the most of your time there.

It is easily accessible, either by taking a train from Loharu or directly taking a cab—albeit at a steep cost. There are tons of hotels to stay at, and it is a must to visit the famous tourist attractions like the India Gate and the Red Fort. Areas like Connaught Place (the real one) and Hauz Khas Village are also popular, especially for those with an appreciation for food. The many markets and parks scattered throughout provide a scenic beauty that anyone with a penchant for photography is sure to appreciate.

Most importantly, keep the weather in mind when packing, as Delhi tends to have very hot summers and very cold winters. Whatever the plan ends up being, it is sure to provide a welcome respite from the monotony of everyday life. Perhaps, the high levels of pollution might even make you appreciate Pilani’s relatively remote location once you return.

NEEMRANA

Have you ever wanted to stay in a fifteenth-century castle? If so, you can always take the first flight to Wales and rent out one of the structures littered around there. However, it might be a tad difficult to return before classes start, so the Fort Palace at Nimrana could work as a close second.

A mere two hours away from campus, Neemrana provides an ideal getaway for the weekend, without any of the hassles of long journeys. You can reach there by taking a cab or a taxi, or by catching a train from Loharu to Rewari station. The best time to go would be between October and March, to avoid the sweltering heat that can affect parts of the landscape.

The famous stronghold-turned-hotel, Fort Palace, offers a perfect blend of cultural significance and comfort for your stay in Neemrana. You can enhance your cultural experience by visiting the Neemrana Baori, or get in touch with your adventurous side with treks, zip lines, etc. It is not a complete experience until you explore the stores all around. Food or art, no matter what you could want, Neemrana has got you covered.

KHETRI

Located approximately 45 kilometres from Pilani, Khetri is often referred to as the ‘Copper Town’ of Rajasthan, due to its historic mines. The journey takes roughly an hour by road, making it an ideal weekend excursion.

The most striking landmark in Khetri is the Khetri Fort, situated on a hilltop overlooking the town. The fort was built in the 18th century by Raja Bhopal Singh, combining elements of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles, with sweeping courtyards and commanding views of the surrounding desert plains. Although partially in ruins, it retains a sense of grandeur and adventure that appeals to history enthusiasts and photographers alike.

Khetri also holds spiritual and educational significance. Swami Vivekananda was a frequent guest of Raja Ajit Singh of Khetri, and it was here that the monk adopted the name ‘Vivekananda’ before his historic journey to Chicago in 1893. A Vivekananda Memorial in the town honours this connection, making it a meaningful stop for anyone interested in India’s culture and history.

You can explore the copper mines, interact with locals in traditional bazaars, and sample simple but hearty Rajasthani meals at roadside dhabas. With its easy accessibility and tranquil charm, Khetri can make for a short yet enriching getaway from Pilani.

MANDAWA

A slightly longer drive, around 90 kilometres from Pilani, leads to Mandawa, a gem situated in the Shekhawati region. Known for its elaborately painted havelis, Mandawa is often described as an ‘open-air art gallery.’ Once a prosperous trading post along the ancient caravan routes, the town’s merchants displayed their wealth through intricately frescoed mansions that still stand today.

Walking through Mandawa’s narrow lanes is akin to stepping back in time. Every wall, window, and archway tells a story—mythological tales, royal portraits, and scenes from daily life rendered in vivid pigments. The Hanuman Prasad Goenka Haveli, Murmuria Haveli, and Gulab Rai Ladia Haveli are among the most famous, each offering unique artistic details.

At the heart of the town stands the Mandawa Fort, a majestic structure that now serves as a heritage hotel. From its ramparts, you can view the entire town spread out like a living museum. Spending a night in Mandawa allows visitors to soak in its old-world ambience and savour traditional Rajasthani cuisine under the stars.

JAIPUR

For those willing to venture a bit farther, Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, lies about 200 kilometres from Pilani—a five-hour drive that rewards visitors with a kaleidoscope of royal grandeur and modern energy.

Famed as India’s Pink City, Jaipur is a vibrant blend of history and craftsmanship. The Amber Fort, with its elephant rides and mirror-walled chambers, introduces visitors to the city’s regal past. The Hawa Mahal, a honeycombed pink sandstone façade, remains Jaipur’s most iconic image. The City Palace, Jantar Mantar Observatory, and the lively Johari Bazaar further showcase the city’s royal and cultural heritage.

Jaipur is also a paradise for shoppers, offering traditional jewellery, hand-block textiles, and pottery. Food lovers can savour authentic dishes like dal-baati-churma, ghewar, and spicy laal maas at local eateries or rooftop cafes overlooking the forts.

While a day trip is possible, an overnight stay lets you enjoy Jaipur’s evening markets and illuminated palaces, turning a regular weekend into a memorable royal retreat.

Be it the quiet hills of Khetri or the royal streets of Jaipur, each destination offers a refreshing pause from Pilani’s routine. These short escapes aren’t just about travel—they’re about the stories, photos, and memories made along the way. So when the weekend chaos clears, grab your friends, hit the road, and remind yourself that there’s a whole world waiting, just beyond the campus gates.

Now, if you are still unsure about how to plan the trip, there’s no need to worry. Here is a sample itinerary for a weekend trip to Delhi that you can use as a reference to plan your own trips. 

Day 1

• Book all required tickets, hotel rooms, etc, at least a few weeks in advance.
• Option 1: Book a cab through the SU App
• Option 2: Use the Ridezy Traveller (book your seat by sending a message to the provider on WhatsApp)
• Option 3: Go to the Loharu station by cab (make sure to leave campus an hour before your train’s departure time)
• Leave the hostel at 8:00 AM and reach Loharu Station by 9:00 AM at the latest
• Board the 9:15 AM train to Delhi 
• Reach the New Delhi Railway Station at 1:00 PM and check in to the Hotel by 3:00 PM
• Relax for the remainder of the day and explore the shops near the hotel, or simply have fun with your friends.

Day 2

• Wake up early and make your way to the Red Fort at around 10:00 AM to beat the crowds of tourists.
• Make your way over to the Jama Masjid once you are done, which is just fifteen minutes away.
• Then visit Chandni Chowk for a quick lunch at Karim’s.
• The next place on the list is Raj Ghat, which is ten minutes away by auto.
• Another 20 minutes by auto/cab takes you to the National Gallery of Modern Art.
• If feeling up to it, take a short walk to the India Gate.
• Hop on a cab to Connaught Place for dinner at Tamra.
• Return to the hotel. 

Day 3

• Pack up all your luggage and double-check all tickets if needed
• Option 1: Ridezy leaves at 4:30 PM from the airport parking, which takes you directly to Pilani, and also allows you to squeeze in a few more hours of exploring.
• Option 2: Book a cab (SU or otherwise) to campus directly
• Option 3: You could also catch one of the following trains back –
• Depending on how early the return journey is, there will also be time to check out more of the local attractions, food, and memorials.

Happy Travels!