Top 20 Hill Stations in India to Visit

India is known to be a land of diversity when it comes to culture, religions, climate, and even landscapes. India is wonderfully ornamented with seas, rivers, greeneries, plains, and hill stations. And when it comes to hill stations many people think that India is one of the few countries where you can behold spectacular and mind-blowing sights of towns and villages in magnificent hills.

These hill stations enhance the beauty of India and have been attracting millions of million visitors to the country from all over the world. Even the people of India love to visit theme hill stations of their very own motherland in the scorching summer season to beat the intolerable heat, to make their honeymoon or holidays special, or even for religious purposes.

India Hill Stations: A Monthly Guide

Each month brings a unique charm to these high-altitude towns, offering visitors a plethora of options for a perfect getaway. Whether you’re seeking respite from the summer heat, a romantic winter escape, or a refreshing monsoon adventure, India’s hill stations provide an idyllic setting for every kind of traveler.

In this comprehensive section, we delve into the best hill stations to visit in India, month by month, based on insightful articles from Tusk Travel. From the snow-clad peaks in January to the lush greenery of the monsoon season, and the pleasant autumnal hues, we guide you through a year-round journey of these picturesque locales.

January – Top Hill Stations to Visit in India in January: Experience the winter wonderlands of India, where snowfall transforms landscapes into magical realms.

February – Top Hill Stations to Visit in India in February: Discover the serene beauty as winter slowly transitions into spring, offering a blend of chilly and pleasant weather.

March – Hill Stations to Visit in India in March: Witness the bloom of flowers and a vibrant atmosphere as spring fully arrives in the hills.

April – Best Hill Station to Visit in India in April: Escape the beginning of the summer heat by retreating to these cool and refreshing hill stations.

May – Best Hill Stations to Visit in India in May: As the plains get hotter, these hill stations become the perfect summer retreat with their pleasant climate.

June – Best Hill Stations to Visit in India in June: Embrace the onset of monsoon and the lush greenery it brings to the hills.

July – Hill Stations to Visit in India in July: Experience the monsoon at its peak, with misty landscapes and rejuvenating greenery.

August – Hill Stations to Visit in August in India: Enjoy the tail end of the monsoon and the unique beauty it bestows upon the hill stations.

September – Best Hill Stations to Visit in September in India: Witness the lush post-monsoon freshness and the beginning of the festive season in the hills.

October – Hill Stations to Visit in Kerala in October: Explore the Western Ghats as they bask in the glory of the post-monsoon season, offering breathtaking views.

Read also:

November Travel Guide: India’s Top Hill Stations

Must-Visit Indian Hill Stations in October

November – Best Hill Station to Visit in India in November: Experience the onset of winter, making these hill stations a cozy and serene retreat.

December – Best Hill Stations to Visit in India in December: End the year amidst the chilly and festive atmosphere of these hill stations, often adorned with a blanket of snow.

Guide to India Hill Stations by State:

Here is a list of the 20 best hill stations in India for you to explore:

The best part is, that you can go to any part of the country to get a taste of a hill station the country as it has hill stations in all zones of the country – north, south, east, west, and central.

Read also:

Discover India’s Best Destinations in October

Best Hill Destinations to Explore in India in October

# Hill Stations in North India

1. Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir

This place is called “Heaven on Earth” owing to the picturesque surroundings of nature. The gorgeous lake Jhelum with its magnificently adorned houseboats, all-year-round lovely climate, and unbelievable scenic views of the place are the main features of this place.

Major Attractions:

Shalimar Bagh
Shankaracharya Temple
Pari Mahal
Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden
Jama Masjid
Nehru Garden
Dal Lake
Nishant Bagh

More About Srinagar:

2. Gulmarg in Jammu and Kashmir

This is a hit favorite place for adventurous people who love skiing and snowboarding. Mountains covered with snow, Gulmarg Gondola, and evergreen attractive grassland will keep you enthralled during your visit. Read more: 13 Most Beautiful Places to See in Gulmarg.

Major Attractions:

Ferozepur Nallah
Alpather Lake
The Maharani Temple
Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve
Ningli Nalla
St. Mary’s Church

3. Mussoorie in Uttarakhand

The overwhelming charm of this place will bewilder your imagination. Mussoorie is famous for its magnificent green views.

Major Attractions:

Kempty Falls
Lake Mist
Benog Wildlife Sanctuary
Dhanaulti
Lal Tibba
Gun Hills

Read more information on Mussoorie:

4. Manali in Himachal Pradesh

This is a famous honeymoon destination. The bewildering beauty of nature and adventurous activities are the main features of this place.

Major Attractions:

Rohtang Pass
Hadimba Temple
Jogini Waterfall
Gulaba
Bhrigu lake
Beas River
Vashisht Baths

Read Manali Articles:

5. Shimla in Himachal Pradesh

Located at the foothills of the Himalayas this place is a source of pure bliss owing to its heavenly Greenland. Ice skating, river rafting, and trekking are popular here.

Major Attractions:

Kufri
Christ Church
Green Valley
Summer Hill
Chadwick Waterfall
Manjathal Sanctuary

Read more articles for Shimla:

6. Nainital in Uttarakhand

This place is known for its jaw-dropping green vista. Because of the cool temperature throughout the year, it can be visited at any time. The snowfall in this place from December to February draws a lot of visitors from other parts of the country.

Read also: Discover India’s Top Hill Stations for November Travel

Major Attractions:

Naini Lake
Naina Devi Temple
Tiffin top
Neem Karoli Baba Ashram
Hanuman Garhi
Pangot
Tibetan Market

Read more Nainital:

# Hill Stations in East India

7. Darjeeling in West Bengal

The most famous hill station in West Bengal is Darjeeling. This hypnotic hill town will surely attract you with its magnetic green views. The lush green landscapes and spellbound tea garden will surely dazzle your eyes. Toy train rides are very popular here.

Major Attractions:

Tiger Hill
Happy Valley Tea Gardens
Padmaja Naidu Zoological Park
Ghoom Monastery
Himalayan Railway Station
Rock Garden
Sandakphu

Explore more information on Darjeeling:

8. Gangtok in Sikkim

Gangtok is very famous for its peaceful environment and green beauty. You can easily feel the purity of the place with the divine lakes and amazing waterfalls. You can enjoy river rafting, cable ride, mountain biking, and paragliding in Gangtok.

Major Attractions:

Tsomgo Lake
MG Road
Rumtek Monastery
Nathula Pass
Himalayan Zoological Park
Mt. Katao
Gangtok Ropeway
Banjhakri Waterfalls

Gangtok More Information:

9. Mirik in West Bengal

Mirik is famous for its serene landscapes and eye-catching tea gardens. The heavenly ambiance of this place will give you a homely feeling.

Major Attractions:

Mirik Lake
Rameetay Dara
Bokar Ngedon Chokhor Ling Monastery
Deosi Dara
Mirik Church

10. Kalimpong

Kalimpong is Located near the famous Teesta River this place is a popular tourist spot all around the world due to its magnificent viewing areas. Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world can be viewed here. It also has some holy monasteries and some popular boarding schools.

Major Attractions:

Deolo Hill
Jang Dog Palriffo Brang Gompa
Teesta River Rafting
Morgan House
Crookety
Durpin Dara Hill
Kalimpong Science Centre
Hanuman Temple

Read Also:

11. Shillong in Meghalaya

The town is miraculously gorgeous with its mesmerizing waterfalls, awesome rolling hills, marvelous gardens, and splendid scenic beauty. It is perfect for honeymoon destinations or family holidays.

Major Attractions:

Umiam Lake
Elephant Falls
Shillong Peak
Ward’s Lake
Sweet Falls
Jakrem
Mawphlang Sacred Forest
Mawjymbuin Cave

# Hill Station in West India

12. Mount Abu in Rajasthan

The one and only hill station in the land of sands, Rajasthan is located in Aravalli Hills. Tourists visit this place for their spiritual connections and green beauty. Rock climbing, trekking, and camping are some of the famous activities people love to try here. Find here a list of the 20 best Places to Visit in Mount Abu.

Major Attractions:

Dilwara Temples
Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary
Nakki Lake
Achalgarh Fort
Peace Park
Honeymoon Point

Also, read

13. Saputara in Gujarat

This hill station will surely take your breath away with its green vista. Satpura is famous for its tribal connections, so you can get a taste of tribal culture and handicrafts in this place in Gujarat. Thrilling activities like trekking and boating can be enjoyed here.

Major Attractions:

Gira Waterfalls
Saputara Tribal Museum
Hatgadh Fort
Vansda National Park
Saputara Lake
Gira Falls
Echo Point
Saptashringi Devi Temple

Read more articles on Gujarat:

14. Panchgani in Maharashtra

Panchgani is a famous tourist spot known for its natural beauty in its surroundings. Many Hindi movies and T.V. shows have been shot in its famous Table Land. India’s top boarding school can be found here. Check more details on the Top 5 Tourist Places to See in Panchgani.

Major Attractions:

Table Land
Sydney Point
Dhom Dam
Lingmala Falls
Pratapgad Fort
Rajpuri Caves
Sherbag Panchgani Amusement Park
Bombay Point

# Hill Station in South India

15. Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu

This place is another spectacular hill station located on Panar Hills. Boating, trekking, doing yoga, biking, and camping are some of the activities you can enjoy doing in this hill station.

Major Attractions:

Kodaikanal Lake
Green Valley View(Suicide Point)
Bear Shola Falls
Devil’s Kitchen
Kodaikanal Solar Observatory
Berijam Lake
Pillar Rocks
Silver Cascade Falls
Dolphins Nose

Read more on Kodaikanal:

16. Coorg in Karnataka

Being named “Scotland of South India, Coorg is famous for its scenic beauty. Since this place has a lot of coffee plantations, you can feel the aroma of the coffee here. The place is surrounded by breathtaking greenery that gives you a feeling of tranquility.

Major Attractions:

Iruppu Falls
Dubare Elephant Camp
Talacauvery
Honnamana Kere Lake
Somwarpet
Abbey Falls
Raja’s Seat
Bylakuppe
Golden Temple (Namdroling Monastery)

17. Munnar in Kerala

This mesmerizing hill station covered with green meadows gives your mind a complete feeling of serenity. It is a hot favorite for newlywed couples. Appealing lakes, waterfalls, viewpoints, and adventurous mountain biking and trekking are the main features of this place.

Read also: Kerala’s Top Hill Stations to Explore in October

Major Attractions:

Cheeyapara Waterfalls
Attukad Waterfalls
Pothamedu View Point
Photo Point
Tata Tea or KDHP Museum
Lock heart Gap
Indo-Swiss Dairy Farm
Rose Garden
C.S.I Christ Church(Life of Pi Church)

More information on Munnar:

18. Ooty in Tamil Nadu

Popularly known as “Queen Of Hills”, this magnificent green meadow located in the hills of the Nilgiri Hills is famous for its tea plantations. This is one of the few tourist spots in India which is draws thousands of tourists to this place every year.

Read also: Explore South India in October: Top Tourist Hotspots

Major Attractions

Ooty Lake
Ooty Rose Garden
Emerald Lake
Pykara Lake
Nilgiri Mountain Railway
Doddabetta Peak
Shooting Point
Madumalai National Park
Avalanche Lake
Thunder World Amusement Park
Elk Hill Murugan Temple

Read Ooty Information:

# Hill Stations in Central India

19. Pachmarhi in Madhya Pradesh

This is a hill station with a rich historical background as, during the British reign, English Captain James Forsyth discovered this elevated land. The place is famous for its rich natural landscapes and historical caves and monuments.

Major Attractions

Bee Falls
Pandava Caves
Dhoopgarh
Jatashankar Temple
Chauragarh Peak
Apsara Vihar
Priyadarshini Point (Forsyth Point)

Also, read:

20. Omkareshwar in Madhya Pradesh

Located on the banks of the sacred river Narmada, This is one of the most desired religious places in Madhya Pradesh. Lord Shiva’s temple, the meeting point of two rivers, and the divine “Om” shaped island draw pilgrims to this religious hilly area.

Major Attractions

Omkareshwar Temple
Ahilya Ghat
24 Avatar Group of Temples
Kedareshawar Temple
Siddhanath Temple

Traveling undoubtedly refreshes your mind but when you travel to a hill station, it not only rejuvenates your mind but also lifts up your spirit and puts you in complete tranquility for you to feel divine and ecstatic which is really necessary for this age of technology and social media which are always making us rush in our lives.

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Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What are the top 5 hill stations in India?

The top 5 hill stations in India are Shimla, Manali, Darjeeling, Ooty, and Nainital.

2. Which is the best hill station in India for a honeymoon?

Manali is considered the best hill station in India for a honeymoon due to its romantic scenery and numerous activities for couples.

3. What is the highest hill station in India?

Gulmarg in Jammu and Kashmir is the highest hill station in India, located at an altitude of about 2,650 meters (8,694 feet).

4. Can you name a hill station in Andhra Pradesh?

Araku Valley is a popular hill station in Andhra Pradesh, known for its coffee plantations and scenic landscapes.

5. What are some beautiful hill stations in India?

Some beautiful hill stations in India include Munnar, Kodaikanal, Coorg, Mussoorie, and Shillong.

6. Which hill station is known as the ‘Queen of Hills’?

Shimla is known as the ‘Queen of Hills’ due to its picturesque beauty and pleasant climate.

7. What is the best time to visit hill stations in India?

The best time to visit hill stations in India is during the summer months from March to June, and also in the autumn months from September to November.

8. Which hill station in India is famous for tea plantations?

Darjeeling is famous for its extensive tea plantations and the iconic Darjeeling tea.

9. What are some good hill stations near Punjab?

Some good hill stations near Punjab are Dalhousie, Dharamshala, Kasauli, and Shimla.

10. Which is the best hill station to visit now?

Currently, Ooty is one of the best hill stations to visit for its pleasant weather and stunning botanical gardens.

11. Which hill station is famous for its toy train?

Darjeeling is famous for its toy train, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

12. What is the best hill station in India for adventure sports?

Manali is the best hill station in India for adventure sports, offering activities like trekking, paragliding, and river rafting.

13. Are there any hill stations in South India?

Yes, popular hill stations in South India include Ooty, Kodaikanal, Munnar, Coorg, and Wayanad.

14. Which hill station is closest to Delhi?

Mussoorie is one of the closest hill stations to Delhi, located about 290 kilometers away.

15. What hill station is known for its lake?

Nainital is known for its beautiful lake, Naini Lake, which is a popular spot for boating and other water activities.

16. Which hill station in India is called the ‘Scotland of the East’?

Shillong in Meghalaya is often referred to as the ‘Scotland of the East’ due to its rolling hills, pleasant climate, and scenic beauty.

17. What are some lesser-known hill stations in India?

Some lesser-known hill stations in India include Auli, Lansdowne, Chikmagalur, Almora, and Ziro.

18. Which hill station is known for its colonial architecture?

Shimla is renowned for its colonial architecture, including buildings like the Viceregal Lodge and Christ Church.

19. What is the best hill station to visit in winter?

Gulmarg is the best hill station to visit in winter for its snow-covered landscapes and winter sports, especially skiing.

20. Which hill station in India is famous for its flower show?

Ooty is famous for its annual flower show held at the Government Botanical Gardens, which showcases a variety of flowers and attracts many visitors.

20 Popular Hill Stations in India to Visit in 2024

India Hill Stations: A Monthly Guide

Guide to India Hill Stations by State:

Here is a list of the 20 best hill stations in India for you to explore: