28 Indian Hill Stations
28 Indian Hill Stations that should be a part of your Bucket List
Hill Stations, as the name suggests is a town or area present at a higher elevation than the normal plain. Indian Hill Stations are really heavenly as I’ve mentioned in the title. They are just magical and have the ability to soothe any person on this planet.
Well to be honest I’m a high admirer of Hill Stations in India. I’ve visited two or three of these which I’m going to mention below and my experience was awesome. If you are planning a trip to go somewhere in India and are unsure about the destination! Then you are going to get great inspiration from this post.
1. Srinagar, Jammu, and Kashmir
The Summer Capital of Jammu and Kashmir – Srinagar is a land of immense beauty and charm. At one sight, visitors fall in love with this magnificent hill station. Famous for its lovely environment, Tulip gardens, and houseboats, this city is set beside the Jhelum river. Moreover, Srinagar is home to Asia’s Largest Tulip Garden, and every year in April month a Tulip Festival is held.
Lakes such as Dal Lake, Wular lake, Nigeen lake, and Manasbal lake impresses the tourists and are very popular in the country too. Srinagar is also the Northernmost Indian hill station.
You must witness the never-ending beauty of this place at least once in your lifetime.
2. Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Himachal Pradesh is one of the most beautiful states in India and here lies vibrant beauty. Manali – a high-altitude hill station in the Beas river valley of Himachal Pradesh is one of the vibrant places of this state. Widely popular throughout the nation, this extraordinary hill station is set amidst the Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar ranges.
There are a number of things in Manali that can wake up the adventure enthusiast in you, like, River sports, Trekking Trails, Serene mountains, and much more.
Manali has more than 20 lakh visitors per year! Solang Valley and Rohtang Pass are some of the most loved sports in this beautiful Hill station.
3. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
The Capital and the Largest City of Himachal Pradesh – Shimla is a beautiful hill station with a touch of colonial memories. The Mall Road(lined up with multiple eye-catchy shops) is the center of attraction in Shimla with Christ Church and some other architectural monuments.
Traveling by Toy Train will make your journey even more enjoyable and memorable. Because of the never-ending beauty of the magnificent mountains around this city, it shines even more.
A Tour of 2-3 days will be ideal for a tourist as he/she can explore the Best of Shimla within this period.
The top places to visit in Shimla are – Tattapani, The Ridge, Kufri, Chail, and Mall Road.
4. Mcleodganj, Himachal Pradesh
Mcleodganj is a splendid hill station near Dharamshala. For Trekkers, this place is really worth visiting. Mcleodganj may be a city with a mixture of some Tibetan culture and a few of British culture.
Dalai Lama – Tibetan Spiritual Leader resides here for which this place is known worldwide. Mcleodganj is also known as ‘Little Lhasa‘. There is a different vibe that strikes you in this enchanting city, that’s due to the Tibetan Influence.
It is located at an elevation of 2000 meters which is one of the reasons behind those mesmerizing views of the Dhauladhar ranges.
5. Auli, Uttarakhand
Auli in Chamoli district of Uttarakhand may be a wonderful hill station that’s also a positive Ski Destination for Tourists. The spell-bounding, snow-capped mountains may be a perfect treat for the eyes of a person.
At an elevation of 2,800 meters, Auli is one of the less explored hill stations in India. The Slopes are covered with dense deodar and oak forests and you can witness some famous peaks like Dunagiri, Kamet, Mana Parvat, and Nanda Devi.
The Best Time to visit Auli is from December to March when Auli becomes a perfect paradise for Ski Lovers. Some places to see in and around Auli are Auli Artificial Lake, Gorson Bugyal, Chattrakund, Chenab Lake, and Joshimath.
6. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
Located in the Dehradun district of Uttarakhand at an altitude of 7000 feet, Mussoorie is an amazing hill station. In fact, it is known as the ‘Queen of Hill Stations. The weather of Mussoorie remains Cool and so peaceful the whole year that it is one of my favorite Hill Stations in India. Also, it was the first hill station I’ve ever visited.
You can take a Ropeway to Gun Hill, which is actually the second-highest peak in Mussoorie. A wonderful view of the hill station and surrounding Himalayas will be waiting for you there.
Places to visit in Mussoorie are Lal Tibba, Gun Hills, Lake Mist, Kempty Falls, and Mall Road. Mussoorie is gently getting more and more popular every year among travelers.
7. Nainital, Uttarakhand
Nainital is a gem of Uttarakhand that resides at the foothills of the Kumaon ranges in the Himalayas. In between this pretty hill station is situated an eye-shaped lake – Naini Lake, which is admired by every tourist that comes here. It is nearly 2 miles in circumference and is really astounding.
This place is also known as the ‘City of Lakes’ due to the presence of Naini lake and other lakes in that area. Nainital is a perfect getaway for family and honeymooners. Furthermore, go boating in the Naini Lake, Shop in the Tibetan Market, and wander on the Mall Road. You’ll be delighted to get those experiences.
The Areas around Nainital are rich in flora and fauna. You’ll indeed have a great time exploring this lovely hill station.
8. Darjeeling, West Bengal
In West Bengal, Darjeeling is a city in the lower Himalayas at an altitude of 2000 meters. Darjeeling’s tea industry is extremely popular throughout the state. Moreover, the splendid view of Kangchenjunga mountain catches the attention of visitors.
The Toy Train which was first started in 1881 is still running through the tracks and is declared the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Talking about the cuisines, Darjeeling having a cold climate mainly serves Rice, Potatoes, and Noodles. Other popular food items in Darjeeling are Momos, Thukpa, etc.
The best time to go to Darjeeling is from April to June and from October to December.
9. Mount Abu, Rajasthan
Mount Abu is the mere hill station in Rajasthan and a major attraction spot for travelers. There are many places that will help you release some stress and enjoy the beauty of nature. Some of them are Sunset Point, Honeymoon Point, and Nakki Lake.
Witnessing sunset from the Sunset point is an out-of-world thing. Apart from this, the highest peak of the Aravalli Ranges also lies in Mount Abu named Guru Shikhar.
Have you heard of the Dilwara Jain Temples? They are also one of the prime places on Mount Abu among the tourists. Having ancient structures, Dilwara Temples must be a part of your Bucket list when visiting Mount Abu.
It is also known as ‘Shimla of Rajasthan’.
10. Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra
In the Western Ghats lies this lovely hill town Mahabaleshwar. Also known as the ‘Land of Strawberries’ as it is widely known all over India for those strawberries. It holds the stats for the production of 85% of strawberries across India.
The serene landscapes, wonderful peaks, and joyful rivers make this place super exciting and fun to visit. This Hill Station is a perfect Getaway in Maharashtra.
Moreover, the Krishna river originates from here which makes this place a good to go for pilgrims too. Around 2-3 days will be enough to explore Mahabaleshwar.
The Peak Season is March to May which is considered a great time to visit Mahabaleshwar by many tourists.
11. Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Ooty also known as Udagamandalam, is a picturesque hill station in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu. No less than a Paradise for Mountain lovers, Ooty serves as an incredible destination for those wanting a relaxed and soothing holiday.
Ooty is among the best hill stations in India. You’ll spot eye-catchy sights of the Nilgiri hills, Beautiful waterfalls, and Tea Gardens. Moreover, how can we forget the wonderful toy train ride? Yes, the toy train ride of the Nilgiri hills is one of the best train rides you can ever imagine.
12. Munnar
Munnar is situated in the Idukki district in Kerala and is one of the most sought-after destinations in South India. It is situated at the confluence of three mountain streams- Mudrapuzha, Kundala, and Nallathanni. Munnar offers the best holiday facilities thus making it a popular resort town. Pristine valleys, mountains, exotic and rare species of flora and fauna, and several wildlife sanctuaries and forests are enough to attract a large number of domestic as well as international tourists.
13. Coorg
Coorg is a major tourist attraction because of its natural beauty. Bangalore to Coorg taxi is the best-opted mode to travel to Coorg. Coorg is known for its coffee and ethnic warrior people. Coorg is rich in natural resources including timber and spices. The highest peak in Coorg is 1750 m above sea level. There are many places of tourist attractions like Talakaveri, Nisargadhana, Abbey Falls, Dubare, Nagarahole National Park, Iruppu Falls, and the Tibetan Buddhist Golden Temple.
14. Champawat
Champawat, a lesser-known hill station, is located in the Kumaon division of Uttarakhand at a height of 1615 m above sea level. It is one of the most beautiful places in Uttarakhand. Champawat is famous for its natural beauty and ancient temples like Baleshwar Temple. The Nagnath Temple in Champawat is said to have been completed in one night by a one-handed artisan.
15. Kurseong
Kurseong is a hill station in West Bengal about 30 kilometers from Darjeeling. Kurseong literally means Place of White Orchid. The hill station is peaceful and serene and apt for a relaxing holiday. Kurseong is a small and bustling hill station known for its tea plantations.
16. Gulmarg
Gulmarg is one of the premier hill resorts in India. Located in Jammu and Kashmir, Gulmarg attracts a large number of tourists because of its beautiful snow-clad mountains and natural beauty. Gulmarg has the highest green golf course in the world at a height of 2650 m. Skiing and horse riding are the other adventurous sports tourists can indulge in. Located within the Himalayas, Gulmarg also boasts of the highest cable cars in the world. These are called Gulmarg Gondola and are at a height of 3979 m.
17. Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh
Dalhousie, a hill station with small-scale night life and peace in the air, is a copybook place for the people who want to de-stress, who want the silence, pristine atmosphere, and for honeymooners, also for long walks picnics and hikes. We are not putting in a word for the people hoping for discos, malls and multiplexes. However, there is a handful of things to experience in Dalhousie. Dalhousie presents a picture of an old-world charm and it almost seems like it hasn’t quite caught up with the rest of the world.
18. Kodaikanal, princess of hills
Kodaikanal is a hill town in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu Surrounded by condensed wood jungles, rise and fall hill slopes, zigzagging rivers, plunging waterfalls, and lush green valleys; Kodaikanal’s scenic beauty never misfires to hypnotize the travellers. Often publicized as the ‘Princess of Hills’, Kodaikanal is a renowned tourist place in South India. No matter what are you wanting, from boating in lakes to stretching your legs in the hills, or inspecting caves and even offering prayers at pious spots, things to do in Kodaikanal are more than one can count.
19. Pahalgam, the land of gentle race
Holding the natural beauty in its arms, the Pahalgam valley locks itself up in a world that is mim yet queenly, as cool as a cucumber yet zippy. Easy on the eyes beauty of Aru Valley and Betaab Valley gives rise to an out-and-out mojo, whereas the effervescent waters of Lake Tulian, Lake Sheshnag, and Lake Katernag, Lake Marsar and Lake Tarsar appeal most of the jet-setters. The holy pathway to Amarnath gets ahead with Chandanwari in Pahalgam. The hotfooting jungle-like fountains of Liderwath and alpine mountains of Baisaran are extra tokens of Pahalgam.
This valley is also a guiding light for adventure aficionados to take up footslogging, camping and hiking. It also holds out a fair opportunity for trout fishing and water rafting too. On the other side, the phenomenally beautiful Pahalgam Golf Course, which is set against amaze ball background, provides languid great sports time to its visitors
20. Shillong, Meghalaya, the Scotland of India
Shillong- City in Meghalaya
The cafes in Shillong are the icing on the cake. Magnetizing waterfalls, pristine pure lakes and striking mountains make up the city of Shillong. Due to its beautiful lakes, waterfalls, pine forests and green mountains, the British called Shillong the ‘Scotland of the East’.
21. Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh
Khajjiar is a hill station in Chamba district
A very small delightful highland fenced in dense pine and deodar forests, Khajjiar is the most visited hill station situated in the district of Himachal Pradesh. Located at an altitude of 6500 feet at the top of sea level in the foothills of the Dhaulandhar ranges of the western Himalayas, the hill station is garnished with its natural beauty and enjoyable weather. Khajjiar gives a kick to all the adventure freaks and wildlife photographers haunting to catch the site of huge range of exotic flora and fauna.
22. Lahaul-Spiti, Himachal Pradesh
Lahaul and Spiti is a high altitude district in Himachal Pradesh
The arresting snow-capped foothills and the uneven beauty of this spot simply whets the appetite of travellers. Lahaul and Spiti are two isolated Himalayan dales of Himachal Pradesh that lie on the Indo-Tibet border. Being the delightful land of spellbinding Buddhist heritage and art, Lahaul is noted by imposing hills and glaciers while the vegetation, atmosphere and the landscape of Spiti are identical to that of Tibet. That’s is the reason why Spiti is known as ‘Little Tibet’.
23. Almora, Uttarakhand
Imagine sitting on the southern nose of Kumaon Hills of the Himalayan Mountains, imagine yourself surrounded by thick forests of fir and pine trees and enjoying picturesque landscapes and deluging rivers like Koshi and Suyal. Almora is another stunning hill station of India that is going to leave you in absolute shock.
24. Kullu, the valley of Gods
Nestled in the snow clad ranges of the Himalayas, Kullu is publicized as the ‘Valley of Gods’. It has many mysterious tales tied up to its existence. Kullu and Manali are two twin hill stations that are stopped by a massive number of tourists throughout the year. Kullu is ornamented by bunch of glorious temples and celebrations. The glory and the vicinity of the Himalayas psyches out every single body utterly who has ever been the guest of this magnificent place.
25. Devikulam, Kerala, a gift from the nature
Devikulam Hill Station is a fascinating spot located 8 km from Munnar, in Idukki district
Figured up as one of the most visited hill stations in India, Devikulum is situated in the state of Kerala. This place is going to bowl you out completely by the striking scenic beauty and the purity that hangs out all around it. If you are questing for a real romantic getaway, then Devikulam in Kerala will not be a wild goose chase, surely. The dense forested mountains shelter numerous varieties and species of floras and faunas. Located at a height of 1800 meters above sea level, this hill station has peace, serenity and breath-taking natural beauty in its arms.
26. Coonoor, Tamil Nadu
Coonoor is one of the three Nilgiri hill stations – Ooty, Kotagiri and Coonoor
Coonoor comes up with the sweeping eyeshot of the lush green Nilgiri hills, with its crevices, amazing waterfalls and valleys. Giving the flying birds a glad eye is a well-liked hobby in Coonoor, as the area blows hard with a large diversity of species like cormorants, parakeets, pipits, thrushes, skylarks, Nilgiri verditer, etc. Taking a walk through the tea gardens is a great idea and there’s loads of trekking and hiking chains around Coonoor.
27. Khandala, Maharashtra
Khandala is a hill station in the Western Ghat mountains of Maharashtra
The crowd-pleaser hill station of all time in Maharashtra, Khandala oozes excitement, romance and a memorable holiday experience. Visiting the beautiful Khandala means passing time packed in with glorious waterfalls, lakes, and the out-and-out beauty of nature which takes people to another world and makes them forget their all problems. Khandala is a must-visit for nature lovers and also for those hoping to have a quiet vacation away from the hustle and bustle of a busy city.
28. Agumbe, the silicon valley of India
Agumbe is a small village located in the Shimoga district
Located at a height of 826 meters in the Shimoga district, Agumbe, an itsy-bitsy village, provides the visitors an opportunity of enjoying a wonderful sunset view and trekking paths. The hill station of Agumbe lights the fire of tourists due to its peace and spellbinding scenic beauty. It has verdant valleys; charming mountain terrains, glimmering streams and an alluring charm that draws tourists to it, almost throughout the year.
