Tired of the scorching heat wave most of India is going through? Would you prefer to spend the summers in a cool place? Then, ditch your city and head to one of the top 10 hill stations in India. Once you reach these hill stations, you will enjoy leisurely days exploring the green meadows and mountains. Imagine camping near a crystal-clear lake at one of the best hill stations in India. Sounds incredible, right? Then, what are you waiting for? Read the list below and slide away to one of these hill stations for a memorable vacation, whether with family, friends, or alone; it will surely stick with you.
List of 10 Hill Stations in India:
- Shimla: Queen of the Hill stations
- Darjeeling: Land of Tea Plantations
- Munnar: The most scenic hill station in South
- Ooty: Hill Retreat Destination of India
- Manali: Another Queens of hill stations
- Leh-Ladakh: The highest passes in the world
- Nainital: City of Lakes
- Gulmarg: Land of highest gondola ride
- Chikmagalur: Land of Adventures
- Coorg: India’s Scotland
Checkout The Details Below:
1. Shimla: Queen of the Hill stations
Situated in the lap of the great Himalayas, Shimla, in Himachal Pradesh, is one of the most popular hill stations in India. Providing respite to people from hot weather since colonial times, the colonial architecture persists. Visiting the mall road here should be your priority, as it is known for its best street food, colonial buildings, and shopping. An evening stroll here can rejuvenate you within minutes. Other things to explore here include Kama Devi Temple, Slaughter Point, Darlaghat, and more.
Best time to visit: November and February
See This Amazing Activity in Shimla: Paragliding in Shimla
2. Darjeeling: Land of Tea Plantations
One of the most beautiful hill stations in India, Darjeeling in West Bengal, is known for its breathtaking view of the Kanchenjunga range. This hill station in India is known for its massive tea estates (80 in total), and people from all over the world come here to view this stunning phenomenon. Apart from witnessing the waterfalls, trekking to the tiger or other hills, and watching the sunrise, the toy train in Darjeeling is a must for both adults and kids.
Best time to visit: September to November; April to June.
Checkout: Amazing 3 Days in Darjeeling
3. Munnar: The most scenic hill station in South
Amidst the western ghat, you will find one of the top 10 hill stations in India—Munnar. Situated at a height of 1,600 meters, Munnar shines with emerald tea plantations. The drive to Munnar is an adventure, and the surroundings of misty clouds and lush green hills make it a joyful ride. From the Eravikulam National Park home to Nilgiri Tahr to the tea museum to the Chinnar wildlife sanctuary and Lakkham waterfalls, there is so much to explore here.
Best time to visit: October to March.
Try this if you are planning to go Munnar: Ziplining in Munnar
4. Ooty: Hill Retreat Destination of India
Amidst the stunning Nilgiri hills, Ooty stands out in Tamil Naidu as one of the greatest hill stations in India with a cool climate. With its churches, stone houses, and gardens, it maintains its colonial charm. Other than the waterfalls, the deer park, rose garden, and botanical garden with over 2000 animal and plant species await you. For adventure enthusiasts, there are many activities to do, like zip-lining, rock climbing, trekking, and cycling.
Best time to visit: October to November; March to June
Checkout: 3 Days Ooty Tour Package
5. Manali: Another Queens of hill stations
Another hill station lying in the lap of the Himalayas, Manali in Himachal Pradesh, offers a mix of serenity and adventure. The scenic view of orchids, green and red apples, and snow-capped mountains makes it an appealing hill station to backpack to. Jogini Falls, Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley, and multiple Tibetan monasteries are must-visits here.
Best time to visit: October to February
Don't Forget to Experience: Pragliding in Manali
6. Leh-Ladakh: The highest passes in the world
One of the most stunning hill stations in India, visiting Leh-Ladakh should be on your bucket list. Not just soak in the scenic beauty, but drive through the highest passes in the world as you ride a bike on the impressive roads of Leh-Ladakh. Most tour packages include the top attractions here, like the Magnetic Hill, Zanskar Valley, Royal Leh Palace, Tso Moriri, and Pangong Lake.
Best time to visit: May to September.
Checkout every adventure lover's dream: Leh Ladakh bike trip from Manali
7. Nainital: City of Lakes
Another one of the famous hill stations in India nestled amidst the Kumaon Hills, Himalays is Nainital. It is called the ‘city of lakes’ because of the beautiful lakes making a mark on the city. A pristine destination to relax with its pine, rhododendron and oak forests. Go for trekking here at the Naina peak or have a rejuvenating picnic at the Tiffin Top.
Best time to visit: March to June.
How About: 4 Days in Nainital with your Loved Ones
8. Gulmarg: Land of highest gondola ride
Known as the meadows of flowers, your trip to Kashmir is incomplete without a stop in Gulmarg. It is truly heaven on Earth, and there are so many things to do here. From visiting the Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve to picking fresh strawberries from the strawberry field to visiting the enchanting Alpather Lake, there is so much to do here. However, Gulmarg is best known for the highest gondola ride, which takes you 4000 meters above the ground. Moreover, do not forget to shop for kahwa and authentic pashmina when in Gulmarg.
Best time to visit: March to June.
9. Chikmagalur: Land of Adventures
One of the most visited hill stations in India, Chikmagalur in Karnataka is a perfect escape from the bustling city life. Not only does it have breathtaking scenery, but it packs a plethora of adventurous activities like river rafting, trekking, and camping. Moreover, do not forget to indulge in spicy seafood when in Karnataka.
Best time to visit: September to May.
10. Coorg: India’s Scotland
It is truly one of the most beautiful hill stations in India, offering incredible views of waterfalls, rivers, and luscious forests. Ensure to visit the Abbey Falls for a quick dip to unwind. If you love wildlife, visit Nagarhole National Park to spot deer or over 200 bird species. Lastly, do a trek to Tadiandamol, the highest peak in Coorg.
Best time to visit: March to May
Conclusion
There you go! These are the top 10 best hill stations in India. All these offer respite from heat while providing different activities, landscapes, and cultures for you to enjoy. Irrespective of whether you travel solo to these destinations or in a group, you will go back with unforgettable memories and wish to come back and explore these places deeply.
