While Delhi’s air quality index (AQI) keeps getting worse, the latest spike in AQI to 494 has made the residents of India’s national capital seriously consider heading out to the closest breathable escape.

Nainital

Just a six-hour drive from Delhi, Nainital is a heavenly hill station where the air is crisp and fresh. Surrounded by lakes and towering pines, it’s the spot for leisurely boat rides or hiking up Snow View Point. Expect crystal-clear skies and cool mountain air—nature’s antidote to Delhi’s dust.

Mussoorie

A seven-hour drive from Delhi, Mussoorie is often called the ‘Queen of the Hills,’ and for good reason. The hill station offers lush landscapes, charming colonial architecture, and crisp, unpolluted air. Visit Gun Hill for panoramic views or take a stroll down Mall Road—this place is perfect for a relaxed, pollution-free getaway.

Jim Corbett National Park

Located just 5 hours away, Jim Corbett is not only a sanctuary for tigers but also an escape into clean, invigorating air. With vast forests and pristine rivers, the park offers a chance to spot wildlife while breathing in the purest air in the region. Safari, anyone?

Almora

Tucked away in the Kumaon region, Almora, around eight hours from Delhi, offers crisp mountain air and panoramic views of the Himalayas. The small town is rich in culture and natural beauty, perfect for those who seek solitude and fresh breezes without the crowd.

Kasauli

Five hours from Delhi, Kasauli is a well-protected secret in the Himachal hills. With its charming British-era architecture, pine trees, and breathtaking views, the air here is refreshingly clean, making it a great choice to unwind and refresh yourself from clumsy Delhi winters.