Winter is setting in and the summer is around the corner. No doubt India had record high temperatures this summer, and winters could be as bad. However, if mountains and hills are your thing, be it summer or winter, then the hill stations of India are the perfect choice. Whether you’re up for nature walks, chasing waterfalls, birdwatching or even diving into historical gems, these hill stations offer the perfect escape from the city’s moody climate.
With so many popular hill stations in India, you must be wondering which ones are the best, how to get there, and what to do over there. Fortunately, we’ve saved you the research.
Here’s a compiled list of the most offbeat hill stations in India that you should bookmark before it’s crawling with visitors.
Best Hill Stations in India that are Off the Tourist Trail
The best hill station in India offers a variety of sightseeing opportunities for every type of traveler. Whether it’s sipping chai at the foothills of the mountain, waking up to lush jungle views, or hiking offbeat trails for fresh air and birdsong, there are a multitude of stunning hill stations in the country.
If you don’t have one, fret not; here’s an edit of our favorite hill stations you can add to your list, stat.
1. Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir
Go for: Traditional Kashmiri handicraft, houseboats, and serene lakes
With misty lakes, abundant orchards, and exquisite arts and crafts; a trip to Srinagar is a treat for the soul. Perfect for families, groups, and honeymooners, this location offers idyllic homestays, crackling fireplaces to cozy up by, and scenic sights of the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir.
For a memorable summer trip to Srinagar, you can cruise the tranquil Dal Lake on a traditional shikara, visit the Hazratbal Shrine and the Shri Pratap Singh Museum, explore the landscaped Mughal Gardens, or even ride on the Gulmarg Gondola.
Local Tip: Don’t miss out on trying the local specialties like Rogan Josh, Gustaba, and Kashmiri Pulao.
2. Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir
Go for: Adventure sports, cable car rides, and purple Lupin flower blooms
Gulmarg, the meadow of flowers, offers a snowy vista with a host of adventure sports activities. There are many reasons it is among the top 10 hill stations in India. With a breathtaking view of the Himalayas and activities like skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing, and trekking, this location is ideal for avid adventurers.
If you’re not into outdoor activities, you can explore other attractions like the Maharani Temple, the over-100-year-old St. Mary’s Church, and several shopping options like the Main Market and the Gondola Market. Here you can buy Kashmiri handicrafts, stone jewelry, dry fruits, and pashmina shawls.
Local Tip: Lupins, the purple flower only blooms in Gulmarg from mid-June to mid-July and is a sight to behold.
3. Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir
Go for: The breathtaking landscapes, lush green meadows, and scenic valleys
Pahalgam is set against the majestic Pir Panjal range with mountain trails running to the Amarnath Cave temple and the glacial Lidder River flowing through it. This area boasts vast green meadows of the Aru and Betaab valleys which are perfect for picnics.
The Betaab Valley is nestled in willow and alpine trees with snowy peaks in the background. The Aru Valley on the other hand is well-known for its Bollywood shoots, vast meadows, and serene rivers and lakes. You can also visit Chandanwadi which is the base camp for the Amarnath Yatra and known for its snowy landscapes.
Local Tip: Don’t miss the annual Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage to the Amarnath Ji Cave Pahalgam that takes place every year from July to August.
4. Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh
Go for: Vibrant apple orchards, beautiful temples, and monasteries
Kinnaur is known for its majestic mountains, green valleys, orchards, vineyards, and strong Tibetan culture. This region remains snow-clad for six months and is also known as the ‘land of fairytales.
Travelers can visit the Sangla Valley for paragliding, trekking, angling, and rafting or Kalpa, one of the most beautiful villages in the area. The Baspa River is also one of the most breathtaking places frequented by camping enthusiasts.
Local Tip: The salted tea called Cha is a local favorite here, along with Sattu, made from parched barley flour.
5. Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Go for: Ancient temples, white water rafting, and the breath-taking Rohtang Pass
Often referred to as the ‘Valley of the Gods’ Manali is situated in the picturesque Kullu Valley set with magnificent rivers, snow-capped peaks, and dense pine forests. This area is ideal for travelers seeking peace and quiet.
Manali is famous for its Hadimba Temple, Manali Nature Park, the Solang Valley, and Mall Road. It also offers stunning local markets, the hot springs in Manikaran, the Vashisht Temple, and the infamous Kully Shawl Factory.
Local Tip: Rohtang Pass is not to be missed. It is the highest point on the Manali-Keylon Road and offers beautiful views of the glaciers, Lahaul Valley, and Chandra River.
6. Coorg, Karnataka
Go for: Aromatic coffee plantations, rich cultural heritage, and wildlife safaris
Nestled in the lush hills of Karnataka, Coorg is known for its rich coffee plantations, wildlife spotting, and bustling culture. Known as the ‘Scotland of India, this region is well-known for its white-water rafting, temple-hopping, and charming homestays.
With its cool weather and mist-covered hills, Coorg is driving distance from Bengaluru perfect for wildlife and nature lovers. When in Coorg, don’t miss Abbey Falls, trekking up Tadiandamol, the Dubare Elephant Camp, the Namdroling Monastery, or even stunning Tibetan architecture. You should even try the Kodava padi curry and noolputtu with some delicious coffee.
Local Tip: Don’t miss the Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, one of the most famous spots and home to several endangered species of birds.
7. Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Go for: Tea plantations, botanical gardens, and less-trodden nooks and crannies
Known as the “Queen of Hill Stations’ Ooty is on every traveler’s bucket list and why not? This area boasts bright green tea estates, botanical gardens, colonial charm, and breathtaking waterfalls. Even the towns in this area offer a raw charm which is ideal for travelers looking for history and culture.
From October to March, this hill station offers blue skies, cool weather, and tons of sightseeing opportunities. Enjoy scenic viewpoints like Dolphin’s Nose and Ketti Valley to iconic landmarks like Arboretum Tree Garden, the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, the Government Botanical Garden, and Elk Hill Murugan Temple.
Local Tip: The Madhumalai National Park is where the Oscar-winning documentary ‘The Elephant Whisperers’ was filmed.
8. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Go for: Colonial houses, neo-gothic architecture, and adventurous activities
Shimla is among the most sought-after hill stations in North India. It is also known as the summer capital of British India. Shimla attracts families, couples, and solo travelers. Winters here bring blankets of snow while summers offer blooming flowers, lush green valleys, and charming markets.
This area offers a host of attractions like the revered Kali Bari Temple, Shimla’s Mall Road, The Ridge, Christ Church, Jakhu Hill, and even the Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex.
Local Tip: Shimla is the only place in Asia to have a natural ice-skating rink with stunning views of the snow-capped mountains.
Top Hill Stations in India: Picturesque Escape
Among all the popular hill stations and some of the top hill stations in India that outrank all the rest. Specifically christened for their ability to make the season even lovelier, these scenic spots offer rolling mountains, adventure sports, rustic homestays, and cascading waterfalls.
Before the heat starts to creep in, here are some of the top hidden gems in India worth witnessing.
Kodaikanal – The Princess of Hills
One of the top hill stations in South India, Kodaikanal offers an air of nostalgia, homegrown food, and a host of culture and heritage. This place sits at an elevation of 7,300 feet and is nestled around three star-shaped lakes.
Must-do: Kodai is meant for walking and exploring. Here travelers can explore the Coaker’s Walk, Kodai Town, Bryant Park, and go boating.
Must eat: Don’t miss out on the North Indian and Indo-Chinese cuisine of Momos, Medu vadas, Pongal, filter coffee, payasam, assorted poriyal, and even flavorful biryanis.
Getting there: Kodaikanal is a long drive from Chennai. You can also fly to Madurai Airport, Coimbatore Airport, or even Kodai Road, which is the closest railway station.
Darjeeling – Iconic Tea Culture
One of the top 10 hill stations in India, situated in North Bengal, Darjeeling is known for its colonial architecture, lush tea estates, and cool mountain air. Steeped in British colonial history, this hill station offers a host of cozy homestays and delicious local cuisine.
Must-do: Darjeeling is known for the famous Darjeeling Hill Railway (now a World Heritage Site), the picturesque Batasia Loop, the famous Das Studios, Glenary’s old tea cafeterias, and the grand old Planters’ Club, among others.
Must eat: As one of the best hill stations in North India, this area is famous for its Tibetan, Chinese, and Nepali food like Thukpa, Sel roti, Gundruk, Aloo dum, traditional Nepali thali, and Darjeeling tea.
Getting there: Darjeeling can be reached by flight to Bagdodara, by train from the New Jalpaiguri (NJP) near Siliguri, or by road from Kolkata, Gangtok, or Kalimpong.
Slow-paced Vacation to Your Favorite Hill Station
At Anubhav Vacations, our travel experts know the top hill stations in India. They have designed a travel itinerary that is slow, fun, and exciting, unlike you have ever experienced. They explore your interests and select the best hill station in India to suit your needs. So, put on your hiking shoes and woollies or cotton outfits (if you are traveling in summer) as it is time to explore the top hill stations in India with Anubhav Vacations.
