Mountains are the perfect medicine for a tired mind and body. You will surely feel refreshed as you breathe in the clean mountain air. Not just that, but even the pleasant atmosphere and breathtaking views of the hills will energize you.
With a diverse landscape, India offers some amazing hill stations that will capture your heart. Some of those provide a picturesque setting for a romantic trip, while others are amazing for family holidays.
Spanning from the north to the south, India has an uncountable number of hill stations that are worth visiting. Most hill stations are even perfect for a short weekend getaway. Read on to learn more about the hill stations in India that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Must visit hill stations in India:
1. Shimla
Shimla is one of the most famous hill stations that comes to mind when talking about the best hill stations in India. The breathtaking view of the summer capital of Himachal Pradesh has captured the hearts of many travelers.
Apart from its heavenly views, this place also has many tourist attractions. In Manali, you can visit Jakhoo Hills, the Ridge, the Viceregal Lodge, and Chadwick Falls. The most amazing thing about this place is that you can see the snowfall from December to February.
- Best Time to visit: April to June and October to December
- Places to visit: The Ridge, Mall Road, Green Valley, Jakhu Temple, Kufri, Kalka Shimla Toy Train, Scandal Point, Chail, Visceral Lodge, Christ Church, Himalayan Bird Park, Chadwick Falls.
- How to reach: The nearest airport is the Shimla Airport or Jubbarhatti Airport. However, Jubbarhatti Airport is not operational throughout the year due to weather. Therefore you can consider Chandigarh Airport which is 60 km away from the main city. From the airport, you can take a cab or bus to reach Shimla. The nearest railway station is Kalka Railway Station. From there you have to take the Toy train to Shimla. The train journey from Kalka to Shimla takes only 6 hours.
2. Manali
Manali is another beautiful mountain destination that nestles in the snow-covered Himalayas. Whether you are looking for a honeymoon destination or a family tour, Manali is a paradise for all mountain lovers.
The summer in Manali is mild, which makes it an ideal time for whitewater rafting. With this in mind, you can experience the joy of rafting on the Beas River. Apart from that, you can enjoy the thrill of paragliding while enjoying the breathtaking mountain views of Manali.
- Best Time to visit: April to June and October to December
- Places to visit: Beas Kund, Rohtang Pass, Hidimba Temple, Solang Valley, Manu Temple, Old Manali.
- How to reach: The nearest airport is Kullu-Manali Airport or Bhuntar Airport which is at a distance of 50 km from Manali. From the airport, you can book a taxi or cab that will take you to Manali. The nearest railway station to Manali is Joginder Nagar Railway Station, which is at a distance of 162.6 km from Manali. From the railway station, you have to take a cab which will take you to Manali.
3. Auli
If you asked us to describe Auli in just one word, it would be "enchanting.” Auli is one of the astonishing hill stations in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand.
This hill station is ideal for a summer vacation. Auli has the scenic beauty of the mountains; it also offers many winter sports. The Mini Switzerland of India is the perfect place to enjoy the thrill of skiing and snowboarding.
- Best Time to visit: April to June and October to December
- Places to visit: Trishul Peak, Gurso Bugyal, Kwani Bugyal, Rudraprayag, Chenab Lake, Nandaprayag.
- How to reach: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. From the airport, you can book a taxi or take a bus to Joshimath. From Joshimath, you need to travel by ropeway or by road to reach Auli. Haridwar Railway Station and Rishikesh Railways Station are the nearest railway stations to Auli. From there you have to take a cab or bus to Joshimath, from where you need to travel by cable car or by bus to reach Auli.
4. Mussoorie
Mussoorie is a charming hill station in Uttarakhand that is nestled in the Garhwal range of the Himalayas. The snow-covered Himalayan peaks, the lush green hills, and the pleasant climate all together make this hill station a paradise for nature lovers.
Mussoorie offers a range of activities for thrill lovers, like camping, trekking, rappelling, rock climbing, and zip lining. Therefore, if you are looking for a thrilling adventure or a relaxing trip, Manali will be ideal for you.
- Best Time to visit: April to June and October to December
- Places to visit: Mussoorie Mall Road, Kempty Falls, Landour, Gun Hill, Dalai Hill, Laal Tibba, Jharipani Falls.
- How to reach: The nearest airport to Mussoorie is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, and the nearest international airport is the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi. From the Dehradun airport, you can hire a taxi to reach Mussoorie. The nearest railhead to Mussoorie is the Dehradun Railway Station. From there, you can book a cab or taxi to reach Mussoorie.
5. Darjeeling
A list of the best hill stations in the country would be incomplete without mentioning Darjeeling. Nestled in the Himalayan foothills, this hill station in West Bengal is abundant with natural beauty.
The best part about Darjeeling is, that you can spot a heavenly view of the world’s third highest peak, Kanchenjunga. This makes it perfect for all the honeymoon couples. Apart from the stunning mountain views, if you are going there for the first time, you need to try Darjeeling tea.
Darjeeling tea is worldwide famous for its taste and captivating aroma. This region has more than 80 tea estates that supply excellent Darjeeling tea. You can do multiple thrilling sports, like camping, trekking, toy train riding, and whitewater rafting.
- Best time to visit: April to June and October to December
- Places to visit: Tiger Hill, Kanchenjunga, Himalayan Railway, Batasia Loop, Happy Valley Tea Estate, Rock Garden, Mahakal Temple, Singalila National Park, Peace Pagoda, Mall Road.
- How to reach: The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport which is well-connected to most cities. After reaching the airport, you have to book a car to Darjeeling. The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri Railway Station. From the station, various local cars are available that can reach you to Darjeeling.
If you are sick of your daily, monotonous life, then a mountain trip will help soothe your soul and refresh your mind. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, because the mountains are calling.
