Delhi, the bustling heart of India, often calls for an escape into the tranquility of nature. While places like Shimla and Manali are common choices, many offbeat hill stations near Delhi remain unexplored and less crowded. These hidden gems offer breathtaking landscapes, serenity, and a unique charm that will make your trip unforgettable.
Here’s a list of 15 famous offbeat hill stations near Delhi that promise adventure, relaxation, and a refreshing break from city life.
Best 15 Offbeat Hill Stations Near Delhi to Explore:
1. Lansdowne, Uttarakhand
Distance from Delhi: 260 km | Best Time to Visit: March–November
Why Visit? A quiet cantonment town with colonial-era charm, scenic views, and serene lakes.
A picturesque hill town, Lansdowne is a cantonment area known for its colonial charm and dense oak forests. It offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, a serene atmosphere, and attractions like Bhulla Lake, Tip-in-Top viewpoint, and St. Mary’s Church.
- How to Reach: Drive or take a train to Kotdwar (40 km away)
- Top Attractions: Bhulla Tal Lake, St. Mary’s Church, Tip-in-Top viewpoint
- Travel Tip: Carry light woolens, even in summer.
Lansdowne 2 Nights 3 Days Package
2. Chakrata, Uttarakhand
Distance from Delhi: 320 km | Best Time to Visit: March–June, September–November
Why Visit? A secluded hill station with waterfalls and caves.
Chakrata is a lesser-known paradise, offering mesmerizing waterfalls, green meadows, and adventure activities. Tiger Falls, Deoban, and Budher Caves are must-visit spots for nature and thrill lovers.
- How to Reach: Train to Dehradun, then a taxi
- Top Attractions: Tiger Falls, Deoban, Budher Caves
- Travel Tip: Ideal for those seeking a raw and unexplored hill station.
2 Nights 3 Days Chakrata Itinerary
3. Binsar, Uttarakhand
Distance from Delhi: 380 km | Best Time to Visit: October–March
Why Visit? A hidden gem with dense forests and Himalayan views.
Famous for its wildlife sanctuary, Binsar is a haven for nature lovers and photographers. The Zero Point offers panoramic views of Himalayan peaks, while the tranquil forests are perfect for hiking and bird-watching.
- How to Reach: Drive or take a train to Kathgodam
- Top Attractions: Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, Zero Point, Kasar Devi Temple
- Travel Tip: Pack warm clothes as it gets chilly even in summer.
4. Kanatal, Uttarakhand
Distance from Delhi: 310 km | Best Time to Visit: April–June, September–December
Why Visit? Ideal for nature lovers with lush greenery and adventure activities.
Tucked between Mussoorie and Chamba, Kanatal is a serene escape with lush greenery, adventure camps, and thrilling activities like trekking, rappelling, and zip-lining. Surkanda Devi Temple and Tehri Lake are must-visit attractions.
- How to Reach: Drive via Dehradun or take a bus to Chamba
- Top Attractions: Surkanda Devi Temple, Tehri Lake, Kodia Forest
- Travel Tip: Great for camping and trekking enthusiasts.
5. Pangot, Uttarakhand
Distance from Delhi: 300 km | Best Time to Visit: October–May
Why Visit? A paradise for bird watchers and nature lovers.
A paradise for bird watchers, Pangot is a small village near Nainital with over 500 bird species. The peaceful ambiance, dense forests, and rustic charm make it an ideal weekend retreat.
- How to Reach: Drive via Nainital
- Top Attractions: Kilbury Bird Sanctuary, Snow View Point
- Travel Tip: Carry binoculars to enjoy birdwatching.
6. Shoghi, Himachal Pradesh
Distance from Delhi: 330 km | Best Time to Visit: September–June
Why Visit? A lesser-known getaway near Shimla with apple orchards and adventure activities.
Shoghi is a tranquil alternative to Shimla, offering lush hills, scenic beauty, and adventure activities. Explore Tara Devi Temple, enjoy local fruit orchards, or go for nature walks in its dense forests.
- How to Reach: Take a train to Kalka, then a cab
- Top Attractions: Tara Devi Temple, Camping, Trekking Trails
- Travel Tip: Stay in eco-resorts for a unique experience.
4 Days Shimla Tour Package from Chandigarh
7. Barog, Himachal Pradesh
Distance from Delhi: 300 km | Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
Why Visit? A remote and unspoiled hill station with trout fishing.
A hidden gem near Solan, Barog is known for its railway station, lush meadows, and colonial architecture. The Barog Tunnel, one of India’s longest tunnels, is an interesting attraction.
- How to Reach: Drive via Mandi or take a bus
- Top Attractions: Barot Valley, Uhl River, Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary
- Travel Tip: Try your hand at trout fishing.
8. Chail, Himachal Pradesh
Distance from Delhi: 335 km | Best Time to Visit: March–June, September–November
Why Visit? Less crowded than Shimla, known for the world’s highest cricket ground.
Famous for the highest cricket ground in the world, Chail offers majestic views, dense forests, and palaces. Chail Palace and Kali Ka Tibba are must-visit spots.
- How to Reach: Train to Kalka, then a cab
- Top Attractions: Chail Palace, Kali Ka Tibba, Wildlife Sanctuary
- Travel Tip: Stay in the Maharaja’s Palace for a royal experience.
4 Nights 5 Days Chail Tour Itinerary
9. Jibhi, Himachal Pradesh
Distance from Delhi: 500 km | Best Time to Visit: March–June, September–December
Why Visit? A fairytale-like village with stunning wooden houses.
In the Banjar Valley, Jibhi is a charming village with dense pine forests, river streams, and scenic hikes. Don’t miss the Jalori Pass trek and Serolsar Lake.
- How to Reach: Drive or take a bus to Aut
- Top Attractions: Jalori Pass, Chehni Kothi, Waterfall Trek
- Travel Tip: Carry cash as ATMs are scarce.
10. Kasauli, Himachal Pradesh
Distance from Delhi: 290 km | Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
Why Visit? A charming hill town with colonial architecture and pine forests.
A small colonial town, Kasauli is known for its calm environment, British-era churches, and mesmerizing sunset views from Monkey Point.
- How to Reach: Take a train to Kalka, then a cab
- Top Attractions: Monkey Point, Christ Church, Gilbert Trail
- Travel Tip: Stay in heritage properties for a unique experience.
4 Days Kasauli With Shimla Trip Itinerary
11. Mashobra, Himachal Pradesh
Distance from Delhi: 355 km | Best Time to Visit: March–June, September–November
Mashobra is an offbeat retreat near Shimla, offering apple orchards, dense cedar forests, and adventure sports like paragliding and mountain biking.
12. Rajgarh, Himachal Pradesh
Distance from Delhi: 370 km | Best Time to Visit: March–June
Why Visit? Known as the “Peach Bowl of India”, this scenic destination is perfect for nature lovers.
Known as the ‘Peach Valley’, Rajgarh is a perfect getaway for fruit lovers and trekkers. The serene landscape and Shaya Temple make it a peaceful retreat.
- How to Reach: Drive via Solan or take a train to Kalka
- Top Attractions: Habban Valley, Barot Temple, Rajgarh Fort
- Travel Tip: Try fresh peaches and stay in farm resorts.
13. Nag Tibba, Uttarakhand
Distance from Delhi: 350 km | Best Time to Visit: October–April
Why Visit? A short and rewarding trek that offers breathtaking Himalayan views.
An ideal trekking destination, Nag Tibba offers stunning views of Bandarpoonch, Swargarohini, and Kedarnath peaks. It’s a perfect weekend trek for beginners.
- How to Reach: Drive to Pantwari village (the trek starting point)
- Top Attractions: Nag Tibba Peak, Camping, Panoramic Sunrise Views
- Travel Tip: Ideal for beginners looking for an easy Himalayan trek.
14. Dhanaulti, Uttarakhand
Distance from Delhi: 310 km | Best Time to Visit: September–June
Why Visit? A peaceful hill station near Mussoorie, known for its eco-parks and misty landscapes.
A quiet escape from the hustle, Dhanaulti boasts lush forests, Eco Park, and adventure camps. It is an ideal retreat for those who cherish nature and desire tranquility.
- How to Reach: Drive via Dehradun or take a bus to Mussoorie
- Top Attractions: Eco Park, Surkanda Devi Temple, Snow Adventure Zone
- Travel Tip: Visit in winter to witness snowfall and serene landscapes.
3 Nights 4 Days Mussoorie & Dhanaulti Itinerary
15. Abbott Mount, Uttarakhand
Distance from Delhi: 460 km | Best Time to Visit: October–March
Why Visit? A hidden colonial-era retreat with mesmerizing views.
A mysterious yet charming destination, Abbott Mount is known for its eerie colonial-era bungalow, lush greenery, and panoramic Himalayan views.
- How to Reach: Drive or take a train to Kathgodam
- Top Attractions: Haunted House, Church, Sunrise Point
- Travel Tip: Ideal for a peaceful, historical escape.
Final Thoughts
These offbeat hill stations near Delhi offer an unparalleled mix of adventure, peace, and scenic beauty. Whether you seek trekking trails, bird-watching, historical charm, or spiritual retreats, these hidden gems will rejuvenate your soul. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to discover these lesser-explored havens!
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