From the mighty Himalayas in the north to the majestic Western Ghats in the western and southern parts, India is replete with scenic hill stations. These can be thronged for a solo adventure, romantic getaways with the significant other, family escapades, or a fun trip with the gang. While hill stations in India provide a respite from the scorching heat during the summer, these turn into adventure havens during winter. Without any further ado, look at the best hill stations in India. You can make your flight and hotel bookings on HappyEasyGo for the biggest discounts on your travel.
Hill Stations in India
Best Hill Stations in North India
The Himalayan mountain range bestows North India with some hill stations where you can spend a refreshing vacation. The best of these are mentioned below.
Manali
Manali is perhaps the best hill station in North India, and there is no shortage of reasons. The picture-postcard landscape, lush environs, umpteen adventure sports opportunities, and numerous points of interest draw holidaymakers from near and far.
Places to See in Manali: Hidimba Devi Temple, Manu Temple, Mall Road, Jogini Falls, Solang Valley.
Dalhousie
Dalhousie tucked away in the heart of Himachal Pradesh, is a little slice of perfection. You’ll be transported to another world by a blend of pine-clad valleys, flower-carpeted meadows, foggy mountains, and gushing rivers. The old-world charm of the hill station will warm your heart, while the weather and pure air will have you inhaling deeply even as the view takes your breath away.
Places to See in Dalhousie: Khajjiar, Satdhara Falls, Panchpula, Kalatop Khajjiar Sanctuary, Dainkund Peak, Bakrota Hills.
Gulmarg
Gulmarg is a quaint hill station that turns into an adventure paradise as the winter season arrives. It remains enveloped in a thick layer of glistening white snow during the sweater season. It is heaven for skiers and snowboarders during this time. Gulmarg is nestled in the Pir Panjal Range in the Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir.
Places to See in Gulmarg: Alpather Lake, Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve, Strawberry Field, Ningle Nallah, and Ferozepur Nallah.
Srinagar
The summer capital and the largest city of Jammu and Kashmir, Srinagar, has at its heart one of the most beautiful lakes you will ever come across – Dal Lake. The meandering Jhelum River, which cuts through the city, adds to its charm. Kashmir is referred to as the “Heaven on Earth”, and a visit to Srinagar will tell you why.
Places to See in Srinagar: Dal Lake, Shalimar Bagh, Chashme Shahi, Pari Mahal
If you are looking for a hill station near Delhi, check out Lansdowne, Nainital, Ranikhet, and Mukteshwar.
Ladakh
Everything here feeds the soul and comforts the heart, from the stunning views to the culture, spirituality, and even cuisine. With the Himalayas and the Karakoram in the background, this might be the closest you can go to heaven while still alive.
The places to See in Ladakh are Leh Palace, Tso Moriri Lake, Magnetic Lake and Shanti Stupa.
Best Hill Stations in South India
The Western Ghats are a marvel of nature, older than the Himalayas themselves. Check out some of the best hill stations to visit in India’s southern regions.
Ooty
Ooty is fondly referred to as the “Queen of Hill Stations.” It is located in Tamil Nadu, about 85 km from Coimbatore. Ooty has been a popular getaway since the British Raj. The pristine environs of this hill station will be a treat for your senses.
Places to See in Ooty: Government Botanical Garden, St. Stephen’s Church, Ooty Lake.
Munnar
Munnar is among the best hill stations in India for honeymoons. It is the realm of unspoiled greenery, rolling hills and tranquillity. A few days here will rejuvenate your body and mind to the fullest. Munnar has also been rising in ranks as a preferred honeymoon destination, with couples from near and far flocking here to spend quality time together in the lap of nature.
Places to See in Munnar: Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, Tea Museum, Attukad Waterfall, Nayamakad Waterfall.
Devikulam
This stunning hill station in South India encapsulates nature and stories in their purest form. Goddess Sita is said to have bathed in the lake here, which is revered and thought to have medicinal qualities. Tea plantations and waterfalls add to the scenic beauty’s lovely ambience. Devikulam is a popular tourist attraction for children and couples alike. It is unquestionably one of the best hill stations in South India, attracting hundreds of visitors to its perch for a beautiful vista.
Places to See in Devikulam: Devi Lake, Tea And Spice Plantations, Thoovanam Falls, Pallivasal Falls, Mattupetty Dam, Meesapulimala Idukki National Park, Attala Rock Shelter, Kundala Lake.
Kodaikanal
A renowned honeymoon destination, Kodaikanal is another famous hill station in India. With a wonderful climate, misty hills, sprawling greenery, and gorgeous lakes, it has everything one looks for in a holiday destination. The star-shaped Kodaikanal Lake at the heart of the town is where you can enjoy boating and picnic.
Places to See in Kodaikanal: Kodaikanal Lake, Green Valley View, Bear Shola Falls, Pillar Rocks, Thalaiyar Falls.
Mahabaleshwar
Perhaps the best hill station to live in India near Mumbai and Pune, Mahabaleshwar is renowned for its sunsets and strawberries. It is the realm of lush greenery, soaring hills, scenic vantage points, cascading waterfalls and pristine lakes. While on a trip, you can also explore centuries-old forts that narrate the tale of the region’s fascinating past.
Places to See in Mahabaleshwar: Elephant’s Head Point, Chinaman’s Falls, Dhobi Waterfall, Arthur’s Seat, Venna Lake, Wilson Point
The state of Maharashtra is home to many pristine hill stations. Here are the best hill stations near Mumbai to escape the hustle and bustle of the metropolis.
Coorg
Coorg, or Kodagu, is a district in Karnataka known for its natural beauty treasure. Owing to its allure, Coorg has also earned the moniker of “the Scotland of India.” You will find sprawling fields of coffee everywhere, as it is also one of the largest coffee-producing areas in India.
Places to See in Coorg: Abbey Falls, Iruppu Waterfall, Brahmagiri Hill, Tadiandamol.
Best Hill Stations in East and Northeast India
Northeast India has vastly been untouched by tourists. Only recently have globetrotters realized this region’s cultural and natural bounties and started to book cheap flights to explore these. Head to one of the hill stations in Northeast India for an off-beat vacation. Here are some great options.
Shillong
Shillong is the capital of the state of Meghalaya. If Coorg is called “the Scotland of India,” this small city is referred to as “the Scotland of East.” Perhaps you can envision the beauty of Shillong from this fact. If possible, visit this place around the New Year to witness a unique kind of celebration.
Places to See in Shillong: Umiam Lake, Ward’s Lake, Don Bosco Museum, Lady Hydari Park, Nohkalikai Falls.
Pelling
Perched on the foothills of Mount Kangchenjunga, Pelling is a jewel in the crown of Sikkim. Book cheap flight tickets and get ready to capture some of the most enticing vistas you have ever seen. The map of this town is also marked with numerous historical monasteries where you can learn about the richness of the Buddhist culture. Visit the place to understand why Pelling is one of the most sought-after holiday spots in the region.
Places to See in Pelling: Pemayangtse Monastery, Sanga Choeling Monastery, Khecheopalri Lake, Kanchenjunga Falls.
Darjeeling
Darjeeling is a small town in the state of West Bengal on the foothills of the Himalayas. It once served as the summer resort for the elite of the British Raj. However, you do not have to belong to a certain class or standard to admire the bounties of Darjeeling. Book your flight and hotel and embark on a memorable holiday in this much-loved hill station in India.
Places to See in Darjeeling: Batasia Loop, Ghum Monastery, Padmaju Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Peace Pagoda.
Tawang
Tawang, which sits at around 2669 metres, is noted for its numerous magnificent monasteries and is the birthplace of the Dalai Lama. The four-hundred-year-old monastery, one of the largest in India and an important Buddhist holy place, is the prized possession of one of the coldest hill stations in northeast India. Because the land around Tawang has remained mostly unaffected by urbanization, the surrounding fauna and natural plants have flourished.
Places to See in Tawang: Sela Pass, Bumla Pass, Madhuri Lake, Tawang Buddhist Monastery, Jaswant Garh, Nuranang Falls.
Gangtok
Another modern hill station in the northeast, Perched along a rocky mountain crest, is pleasant. While lounging in your hotel room, immerse yourself in the local cultures and take in the breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga. Gangtok is surrounded by beautiful scenery. Make sure you don’t miss out on photographing Sikkim’s capital city.
Places to See in Gangtok: Nathula Pass, Rumtek Monastery, Tsogmo Lake, Ganesh Tok and Kanchenjunga.
Best Hill Stations in West India
Though not large in number, the hill stations in West India are no less enchanting. Check out which ones made it to our list.
Mount Abu
Mount Abu is one of the few hill stations in Rajasthan’s desert state. If the sweltering heat starts to get to you, this is the perfect place to find a respite. It is an ideal destination for a relaxing vacation away from Rajasthan’s popular holiday destinations that remain swamped with tourists.
Places to See in Mount Abu: Nakki Lake, Toad Rock, Raghunath Temple, Dilwara Temples, Honeymoon Point.
Find the best heritage hotels in Rajasthan and enjoy a lavish stay.
Saputara
Saputara is a well-known hill station in the state of Gujarat. The local artisans make intricate pieces of art famous all over India. Thus, if you are a shopper who loves collecting handicrafts, then be ready to be impressed by Saputara. Moreover, you can also partake in numerous adventures and other recreational activities such as paragliding and birdwatching.
Places to See in Saputara: Saputara Lake, Step Garden, Sunset Point.
The state of Maharashtra is home to many pristine hill stations. Here are the best hill stations near Mumbai to escape the hustle and bustle of the metropolis.
These are the top hill stations in India. Call your family and friends, book cheap flights, make hotel bookings, and get ready for some fun time.
