Top 22 Hill Stations in India: For A Memorable Holiday

Posted on Wednesday, September 20th, 2023 by Heena Ganotra Leave a Comment

India is a land of amazing and natural beauty, it has many mesmerizing places from the hill stations of the Himalayas to the coastal places in the south. Importantly, some of the top hill stations in India, surrounded by a lush forest of oak, deodar, eucalyptus, etc are stunning places for a refreshing change from the bustling cities and crowd. And if you’re lucky enough to find yourself here during the rainy season, it can be one of the most pleasant experiences ever!

Table Of Content

1. Gulmarg	Jammu & Kashmir
2. Leh	Leh Ladakh
3. Manali	Himachal Pradesh
4. Shimla	Himachal Pradesh
5. Mussoorie	Uttarakhand
6. Lonavala	Pune
7. Amarkantak	Madhya Pradesh
8. Mahabaleshwar	Maharashtra
9. Darjeeling	West Bengal
10.Shillong	Meghalaya
11.Munnar	Kerala
12. Doodhpathri	Jammu and Kashmir
13. Kufri	Himachal Pradesh
14. McLeodganj	Himachal Pradesh
15. Chail	Himachal Pradesh
16. Almora	Uttarakhand
17. Chopta	Uttarakhand
18. Kalimpong	West Bengal
19. Pachmarhi	Madhya Pradesh
20. Coorg	Karnataka
21. Kodaikanal	Tamil Nadu
22. Ponmudi	Kerala

These hill stations offer picturesque views of nature along with some interesting places to explore like tea plantations, waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuaries. Hill stations are located throughout India, which means that there is something for everyone!  It serves as an ideal holiday destination and offers holiday packages as well as many tourist places nearby to explore. So if you’re looking for some peace and tranquillity on your next vacation, then hill stations might just be what you need! This blog is about top hill stations in India, which are sure to make your trip memorable!

1. Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir

Originally called Gauri Marg which means “the path of Devi Gauri”, Gulmarg is a top hill station in India located in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. Gulmarg means ‘Meadow of Flowers‘ in the Urdu language. It was established as a summer resort during British rule for those who wanted to escape from the heat of the plains during the summer seasons. 

Gulmarg has been one of the top-rated tourist destinations in India for many years due to its cool climate and scenic beauty inclusive of thick pine forests, meadows, lakes, and golf courses. You can explore its topography resembling that of Switzerland by booking a Jammu & Kashmir Tour Package. With its alpine meadows, beautiful pine forests, snow-capped mountains, and crystal-clear lakes, you are sure to have a gala time here.

Nearest Airport: Sheikh Ul Alam International Airport Srinagar 

Address: Indira Gandhi Road, Humhama, Badgam, Jammu and Kashmir 19000

Best time to visit Gulmarg: The best time to visit Gulmarg is during the winter season which coincides with December up until February. 

Best Season to Visit In Gulmarg: The best season for visiting Gulmarg is during the winter months when there are plenty of opportunities for skiing and other winter sports!

Must-visit places in Gulmarg

1. Gulmarg Gondola
2. Alpather Lake 
3. Gulmarg Golf Course
4. Skiing in Gulmarg 
5. Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve 

Activities to do in Gulmarg

1. Skiing
2. Boating
3. Trekking
4. Snowboarding 
5. Horse Riding
6. Paragliding

2. Leh Ladakh

Once the capital for Ladakh kingdom, Leh hill station is a picturesque valley surrounded by majestic snow-capped mountains with the river Zanskar running through it. The city often referred to as ‘The Land Where Time Stands Still‘ is dotted with ancient monasteries and Buddhist temples and attracts visitors from all over the world. Nestled away in the Himalayas, Leh Hills offer a unique opportunity for nature lovers to get up close and personal with one of Mother Nature’s most beautiful creations.

With spectacular natural beauty and wonderful tourist attractions, Leh-Ladakh Tour Packages are hot-selling packages; thanks to the destination being one of the best hill stations in India. The enchanting beauty of Leh Ladakh Hills has been captivating travellers since time immemorial. Apart from the architectural splendour, what makes this place a must-visit is its rich culture and heritage that dates back to thousand years.

Nearest Airport: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport 

Address: Leh Airport, Jammu and Kashmir, India

Best time to visit Leh: The best time to visit Leh is from September to June. The weather in this period of the year remains pleasant and dry while summers are hot and winters are cold. 

Best Season to visit in Leh: Leh has a pleasant climate throughout the year, but winter can be bitterly cold with some snowfall in higher areas. Summer months will be pleasantly warm, but monsoon rains can disrupt travel plans.

Must-visit places in Leh

1. Leh Palace
2. Tsemo Castle
3. Nubra Valley
4. Thiksey Monastery
5. Shanti Stupa

Activities to do in Leh

1. Mountaineering, Camping, River rafting, Peak climbing, and Trekking
2. Jeep Safari in Ladakh.
3. Cycling Tour at Khardung La Pass
4. Exploring Buddhist monasteries
5. Experience local culture at Tsuglagkhang Complex

3. Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Manali is a hill station in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It has been ranked as one of the top five places to visit by Lonely Planet and National Geographic Traveller magazines. It was given the name Manila, which means “a town on a hill” in the Sanskrit language. The Manalsu River flows through Manali at its base, while dense forests surround it from all sides.

Often known as the ‘Valley of the Gods‘ in Himachal Pradesh, it is one of the best hill stations in India. Famous as a honeymoon destination, the place is very famous for its natural beauty and pleasant climate throughout the year. You can experience this beauty for real and so much more by booking any of the Himachal Pradesh Tour Packages. Situated at an altitude of 1,958 metres (6,427 feet) amidst dense deodar cedar forest on the foothills of the Himalayas, it has been ranked as one of the top 10 hill stations in India.

Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport 

Address: V5G2+RR4, Bhuntar, Himachal Pradesh 175125

Best time to visit Manali: The best time to visit Manali is from September to November. But, if you are looking for adventure and excitement, then the December and January months would be perfect for you! On the other hand, if you prefer a more relaxing getaway with stunning views then the summer months would be better suited for your needs.

Best season to visit in Manali: The best season to visit Manali is during the winter season as the winter temperatures are freezing cold with snowfall.  If you want to enjoy a scenic view of snow-clad mountains with stunning sun then summer would be a good season for you to visit Manali.

Must-visit places in Manali

1. Hadimba Temple
2. Solang Valley
3. Jogini Waterfalls
4. Manu Temple
5. The Manali Gompa

Activities to do in Manali

1. Trekking & Camping 
2. Hiking
3. Climbing
4. Rafting, Ziplining, Paragliding 
5. Mountain Biking, Jeep Safari & Scenic Drive

4. Shimla, Himachal 

Shimla is one of the most popular hill stations in India. The summer capital of India has been blessed with natural beauty and is surrounded by green pastures and snow-capped peaks. Shimla is the second-largest city in the state and has many tourist attractions including temples, churches, historic buildings, and parks. 

Shimla also provides access to trekking routes into the Himalayan regions of Kinnaur Valley (to Kaza), Lahaul Valley (over Rohtang Pass), and Spiti Valley (near Kunzum Pass). In fact, the abundance of timber of Shimla Hill Station makes it an important timber market for the local residents as well as the people living nearby. The hill station offers beautiful views and beautiful hills to enjoy on your vacation!

Nearest Airport: Shimla Airport 

Address: Jubbarhatti, Himachal Pradesh 171011

Best time to visit Shimla: The best time of year to visit Shimla is from October until April, with January being especially great because it has lower precipitation rates than other months. 

Best season visit in Shimla: The best season to visit this beautiful hill station in India is winter from December through February when you can enjoy snowfall and ice skating.

Must-visit places in Shimla

1. The Ridge
2. Jakhoo Hill
3. Green Valley
4. Chadwick Waterfall
5. Christ Church

Activities to do in Shimla

1. Sightseeing 
2. Scenic walks 
3. Picnicking on Mall Road 
4. Watching the Sunset from Kala Pathar Hilltop 
5. Trekking to Hanogi Mata Temple

5. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand

Mussoorie is a beautiful hill station in India, also known as ‘Queen of the Hills‘, situated in the Dehradun district of Uttarakhand. It lies 2,005 metres (6,578 ft) above sea level, at the foot of the Mussoorie hills which are part of the lower Himalayas.

For more than a century, Mussoorie has been a popular holiday destination for tourists from across India as well as foreign tourists. It is set amidst rolling hills with lakes and deodar forests and has views of the snow-covered Himalayan peaks. This place is an ideal weekend getaway for nature lovers who wish to have a memorable time surrounded by lush greenery, dense forests, spectacular mountains and much more.

Nearest Airport: Dehradun Airport – Jolly grant 

Address: Airport Rd, Jauligrant, Uttarakhand 248143

Best time to visit Mussoorie: The best time to visit this famous hill station in India is typically spring, but it depends on what kind of experience you are looking for. The two most popular seasons in Mussoorie are autumn and summer. Autumn is known for its cooler weather and vibrant colours, while summer has warmer temperatures with lush greenery all around.

Best season to visit in Mussoorie: The best season to visit in Mussoorie includes winter for snow activities, summer for mountain views, and spring for flowers.

Must-visit places in Mussoorie

1. Kempty Falls
2. Lal Tibba.
3. Gun Hill Point
4. Company Garden
5. Mussoorie Lake

Activities to do in Mussoorie

1. Hiking
2. Bungee Jumping
3. Visit Auli for skiing or trekking 
4. Have some fun at Ganga Talav 
5. Visit the Tibetan Monastery at Ghangaria Village for a cultural tour

6. Lonavala, Pune

Lonavala is the best hill station in the Western Ghats mountain ranges situated on the banks of the Mula river in Lonavala, Pune district. The region has large tracts of dense forests and hills with plenty of scenic beauty including waterfalls, ravines, and caves. Lonavala is also called ‘The Gateway to Maharashtra’ because it provides access to many popular destinations like Mumbai, Alibaug, etc.

Lonavala hill station is a place where you can enjoy the beauty of nature. Lonavla is also popular with tourists from all over the world who visit this popular hill station to experience its scenic beauty. 

Nearest Airport: Pune International Airport

Address: New Airport Rd, Pune International Airport Area, Lohegaon, Pune, Maharashtra 411032

Best time to visit Lonavala: The best time to visit this place is from October to November and from February to March as you can enjoy your stay without any disruption due to rain.

Best season to visit in Lonavala: The best season for visiting Lonavala is in winter, which lasts from December to February.

Must-visit places in Lonavala

1. Tiger’s Leap
2. Bhaja Caves
3. Karla Caves
4. Bhushi Dam
5. Duke’s Nose

Activities to do in Lonavala

1. Trekking
2. Elephant rides
3. Boat tours
4. Sightseeing
5. Camping, Hiking or Biking

7. Amarkantak, Madhya Pradesh

Amarkantak Hill station is a famous hill station in India that is located at Amarkantak in the Anuppur district of Madhya Pradesh. Also known as ‘Teerthraj’ (the king of pilgrimages)“, Amarkantak hill station has been the site of many Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain temples and monuments dating back to the 3rd century BC. Built in 1041–1073 AD, Amarkantak Temple has been the site of pilgrimage for centuries and draws visitors from across India and abroad.

Situated between Vindhya and Satpura mountain ranges, Amarkantak Hill Station is staffed with guides who can tell you about the hills’ flora and fauna as well as local myths and legends associated with Amarkantak Hills!!

Nearest Airport: Bilasa Devi Kevat Airport, Bilaspur (Address: X4V7+RVJ, Chakarbhata, Chhattisgarh 495220)

Best time to visit Amarkantak: The best time to visit Amarkantak hill station is during the monsoon season when all structures are lush green and surrounded by fog.

Best season visit in Amarkantak: The best season to visit Amarkantak hills station is in the winter. It is a great time for bird watching, as some rare species of birds migrate here during this time of the year.

Must-visit places in Amarkantak

1. Narmada Udgam Temple
2. Ancient Temples of Kalachuri
3. Kapil Dhara (Kapil Waterfall) Waterfalls
4. Shri Yantra Mandir
5. Rameshwar Mahadev Temple

Activities to do in Amarkantak

1. Trekking 
2. Camping 
3. Bird watching
4. Cycling and Mountain Biking 
5. Boating

8. Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra 

Situated on the Western Ghats mountain range, Mahabaleshwar Hill Station is a popular tourist destination in India, also known as the ‘Queen of All Hill Stations’ or ‘King of Hill Station‘ due to its natural environment. Mahabaleshwar hill station has been continuously inhabited for over two thousand years and it was an important trade centre during ancient times with links to Tibet as well as Rome. It has been named after the Hindu god Shiva’s consort, Maa Parvati Devi. 

Mahabaleshwar is the Summer Capital of Bombay and its natural beauty attracts tourists from across the world all year round. The place is known for its picturesque beauty and offers a tranquil experience to all its visitors. It is well-known for its natural beauty and lush greenery that surrounds it. 

Nearest Airport: Pune International Airport (New Airport Rd, Pune International Airport Area, Lohegaon, Pune, Maharashtra 411032)

Best time to visit Mahabaleshwar: The best time to visit Mahabaleshwar hill station would be during the months of October, November, and December when it has a cool climate.

Best season visit in Mahabaleshwar: The monsoon season (June-October) is considered the best season to travel here due to its pleasant climate and attractive natural beauty during this period. 

Must-visit places in Mahabaleshwar

1. Lingmala Waterfalls
2. Arthur Seat Point
3. Mapro Garden
4. Vienna Dam
5. Pratapgarh Fort

Activities to do in Mahabaleshwar

1. Hiking up hills 
2. Enjoying scenic views 
3. Purchasing local handicrafts
4. Ride an elephant to explore the forests 
5. Camping, Mountain Biking, and Paragliding

9. Darjeeling, West Bengal

People often find themselves in a constant state of happiness and joy when they visit Darjeeling. A trip to this top hill station in India is like investing in your own fortune of contentment. The air is fresh, the water clean and pure, and there are no pollutants or toxic fumes that can disturb one’s peace of mind. 

There’s something about Darjeeling which makes it really different from any other spot on earth. Situated at the foothills of the Himalayas, it is affectionately known as the ‘Land of Celestial Thunderbolts‘. Its panoramic views and endless hills are just right for those who want to spend some quiet time in nature. But it’s not only mountains and hills that make this small town so wonderful!

Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport (Address: Airport Road, Bagdogra, Siliguri, West Bengal 734421)

Best Time To Visit In Darjeeling: The best time to visit this beautiful place is from November to February if you are looking for more exciting and beautiful scenery. And, if you want a peaceful vacation to escape the scorching heat, March to September is the perfect time to visit.

Best Season To Visit In Darjeeling: The best season to visit Darjeeling hill station will vary depending on the type of traveller you are. If you’re looking to enjoy plenty of outdoor activities, then winter might be your best bet as it offers snowfall and breathtaking views. The summertime is also an excellent choice because the weather tends to be cooler than in other parts of India. The best time to visit Darjeeling Hill Station may depend on what you plan on doing while there!

Must-visit Places In Darjeeling

1. Tinchuley
2. Senchal Lake & Wildlife Sanctuary
3. Singalila National Park and Neora Valley National Park
4. Tenzing Rock
5. Tinchuley

Activities To Do In Darjeeling

1. Paragliding, Whitewater Rafting, and Trekking
2. Kayaking
3. Zorbing
4. Safari and Mountain Biking
5. Camping

10. Shillong, Meghalaya

Located at Shillong, Meghalaya, Shillong Hill station is a popular tourist spot and is a must-visit for anyone visiting. With the beautiful views of the city from up high and the quaint atmosphere of this old British colonial building, it’s no wonder that people flock to visit here.

Shillong hill station referred to as ‘The Abode of Clouds‘ in the northeastern part of India, offers scenic views of the city below, including Assam Rifles Ground and Polo Ground. This beautiful monument attracts tourists from all over India who book North-East Tour Packages, and it doesn’t take long before you find yourself surrounded by people snapping pictures, taking selfies with friends, or just soaking up this historic landmark for themselves.

Best time to visit Shillong: The best time to visit Shillong hill station is during the summer months when it is neither too hot nor too cold. 

Best season to visit Shillong: The Best season to visit Shillong hill station is during autumn, winter, and early spring seasons.

Must-visit places in Shillong

1. Elephant falls
2. Laitlum Canyons
3. Don Bosco Museum
4. Ward Lake
5. Phan Nonglait Park

Activities to do in Shillong

1. Boating in Umiam Lake
2. Trekking and Hiking
3. Horse Riding
4. River Rafting
5. Angling at Dawki

11. Munnar, Kerala

Munnar hill station is a beautiful and picturesque hill station in Kerala. It derives its name from the Malayalam word Munna which means ‘a small urn for holding cremated ashes’. Also popular as ‘Kashmir of South India‘, Munnar is one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in India, which makes Munnar Hill Station an important destination for travellers who want to explore this region. 

Munnar Hill Station offers amazing views of tea plantations (including some very famous ones), green fields with crops like ginger, pepper, etc., hills with pinkish-red soil on them, and valleys full of trees – spice plants like cardamom bushes making it an ideal getaway for anyone looking for peace. The place offers a tranquil atmosphere and it provides the perfect setting for those who want to escape from their busy lives in cities like Cochin or Trivandrum. 

If you are planning on visiting Munnar, then Kerala Tour Packages that have Munnar added to the itinerary will be your best option!

Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (Address: Airport Rd, Kochi, Kerala 683111)

Best time to visit Munnar: The best time to visit Munnar ranges from October to February as it rains heavily during this period. 

Best season visit in Munnar:  The Best Season from December to February has a cool climate and offers good weather for travel, which makes it ideal for visitors.

Must-visit places in Munnar 

1. Rajamalai (Eravikulam) National Park
2. Kalari Kshethra
3. Anamudi Peak
4. Mattupetty Dam
5. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary

Activities to do in Munnar

1. Trekking 
2. Bird watching 
3. Cycling and Biking 
4. Boating and horse riding
5. Wildlife Spotting

12. Doodhpathri, Jammu, and Kashmir

Located in the Kashmir Valley, Doodhpathri hill station is best for those who wish to escape from the heat of summer and enjoy a cool and refreshing stay. This beautiful place is also famous as the ‘Valley of Milk‘.  It is best known for its natural beauty, scenic views of the Doda Valley, and lush green meadows. 

Doodhpathri hill station is a bowl-shaped valley and is home to many wildflowers like daisies, buttercups, and forget-me-nots. This hill resort offers secluded views of snow-clad peaks and valleys around it combined with pine fir. This hill station in India has everything that one might want from a hill station – cool mountain air, natural beauty, and serenity!

Nearest Airport: Sheikh Ul Alam International Airport Srinagar 

Address: Indira Gandhi Road, Humhama, Badgam, Jammu and Kashmir 190007

Best time to visit Doodhpathri: The best time to visit is between September and November after the monsoon has ended but before winter arrives. 

Best Season to Visit Doodhpathri: The best season to visit Doodhpathri would be during the spring and summer months between March-May and September-November.

Must-visit places in Doodhpathri

1. Tangnar
2. Mujh Pathri
3. Palmaidan
4. Diskhal
5. Yusmarg

Activities to do in Doodhpathri

1. Camping
2. Trekking 
3. Mount Climbing
4. Boating
5. Bird Watching

13. Kufri, Himachal Pradesh

Located in the Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh, Kufri is one of the most beautiful hill stations in India. The perfect place to escape from the hot summer months, this green oasis has something for everyone. Famous for its natural beauty and fresh mountain air, it’s no wonder that so many people come here every year!

Kufri hill station is a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. This place is surrounded by dense forests and snow-covered peaks and has a wildlife zoo with rare felines, antelopes, birds, and monal. If you are looking for an offbeat tourist destination with amazing scenic beauty, then Kufri hill station would be the perfect fit! 

Nearest Airport: Shimla Airport

Address: Jubbarhatti, Himachal Pradesh 171011

Best time to visit Kufri: If you are a nature lover and want to experience the best of Kufri hill station, then the best season to visit Kufri is from October to February. 

Best Season to Visit in Kufri: The best seasons to visit in Kufri hill station is during summers and winters. Summers offer a scenic view of lush green meadows with snow-clad peaks while on the other hand, winters offer ice skating on frozen lakes.

Must-visit places in Kufri

1. Mahasu Peak
2. Green Valley
3. Himalayan Nature Park
4. Indira Tourist Park
5. Kufri Fun World

Activities to do in Kufri

1. Try Zip-lining & Bungee Jumping
2. Skiing, Snowboarding, and Ice skating 
3. Visiting Rajgarh Palace with its peacocks and monkeys
4. Take a tour to Tiger Hill
5.  Hiking, Trekking and Mountain biking

14. McLeodganj, Himachal Pradesh

McLeodganj Hill station is one of the best places to visit in McLeodganj. It is famous for its natural environment and beautiful scenic views. Mcleodganj hill station is also known as “Little Lhasa” or “Dhasa”. The Dalai Lama’s temple stands at the top of one of McLeodganj’s hills. McLeodganj, also known as Mcleod Ganj is on the list of top hill stations in India and a municipal council that serves as the central town for Kangra district in Himachal Pradesh. 

Located in the foothills, McLeodganj has always been a popular destination for Buddhist pilgrims. Mcleodganj hill station presents the best view of the river Ganges and Himalayas Mountains from this point. Mcleod Ganj hill station also has an old temple called Bhagsu Nag Temple which is situated on top of the hill that you can see from here very clearly!

Nearest Airport: Gaggal Airport 

Address: National Highway 154, Gaggal, Himachal Pradesh 176209

Best time to visit McLeodganj: The best time to visit McLeodganj is during the months of October through March. This is when the weather in McLeodganj is usually pleasant, and the tourist crowds are minimal.

Best season visit in McLeodganj: The best season to visit McLeodganj is winter (December-February) because of less rainfall and cooler temperatures.

Must-visit places in McLeodganj

1. Tsuglagkhang temple
2. Church of St. Johns in the Wilderness
3. Namgyal Monastery
4. Bhagsunath Temple 
5. Bhagsu Falls

Activities to do in McLeodganj

1. Hiking, Cycling, and Paragliding
2. Rock climbing  and Trekking
3. Go on a walk through the beautiful local markets
4. Visit one of several Buddhist monasteries and temples
5. Shopping for jewellery and handicrafts

15. Chail, Himachal Pradesh

Beautiful Chail Hill station is situated in the Chamba Valley of Himachal Pradesh. It’s a small town with its beauty and serenity making it the most loved destination among tourists. Chail Hill Station offers you to explore the beauty of Chail with its natural beauty, rich history, and cultural diversity. 

It also offers panoramic views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks, lush green valleys, and charming meadows with grazing cows. This hill station is on the list of top hill stations in India and is the more preferred destination for hikers. It offers a wonderful view of the lower Himalayas and Solan has good trekking points from Janga, Kufri and Ashwini Khad.

Nearest Airport: Shimla Airport 

Address: Jubbarhatti, Himachal Pradesh 171011

Best time to visit Chail: The best time to visit Chail Hill Station is from March to June and September to November, as it’s the most pleasant climate.

Best season to visit in Chail: The best season for visiting Chail Hill station is spring, as the flowers will be blooming and there will be a lot of vibrant colours in the trees.

Must-visit places in Chail

1. Sadhupul Lake
2. Chail Wildlife Sanctuary
3. Kali Temple
4. Siddh Baba ka Mandir
5. Gurudwara Sahib

Activities to do in Chail

1. Trekking, Skiing, Biking, and more
2. Walking up to see the Himalayan Nature Park 
3. Watch an evening game drive at Chail Wildlife Sanctuary
4. Horse riding and Bird watching
5. Boating in Sadhupul Lake

16. Almora, Uttarakhand

Almora hill station is a place where you can enjoy the peace and serenity of Almora. It is a famous hill station in India that has been attracting tourists from across the globe for its natural beauty. Almora hill station is a ‘Heart of Kumaon‘ that is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and enjoys a year-round mild temperate climate. 

Almora is a wonderful place to visit if you want to experience an authentic Indian village atmosphere. It’s been said that Almora was once called ‘Anandapuri’ as it offered peace to those who visited this land. The place has been visited by many tourists from all over India and foreign countries who have come to explore its beauty. 

Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport 

Address: Udham Singh Nagar, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand 263145

Best time to visit Almora: The best time to visit Almora is from October till April as it’s quite cool with a pleasant climate during these months.

Best season to visit Almora: The best season for visiting Almora is winter as the hills get covered with snow during this period

Must-visit places in Almora

1. Zero Point
2. Bright End Corner 
3. Jageshwar Temple
4. Kasar Devi Temple
5. Katarmal Sun Temple

Activities to do in Almora

1. Trekking, Mountain biking & Hiking
2. Take a walk through the old city – explore history and culture!
3. Elephant ride through the forest trails
4. A walk through the fascinating markets for some shopping therapy
5. Golfing at the local golf course

17. Chopta, Uttarakhand

Chopta Hill station is situated in Chopta Valley, Uttarakhand. Here, Chopta Valley offers a picturesque view that includes scenic beauty, snow-capped peaks, and lush green meadows while on the other hand, there are apple orchards that provide fresh apples all through the year.

Chopta Hill station is a ‘Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand‘ and a popular tourist destination for those visiting the Garhwal Himalayan region. Chopta Hill station, popularly known as the gateway to Nanda Devi National Park, offers spectacular views of the Alaknanda River and Dhauliganga River. It has a beautiful scenic landscape with lush green pastures, thick forests, and snow-capped peaks in the backdrop. It’s popular with tourists year-round because it offers a scenic view of the Himalayan mountains in all seasons!

Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport 

Address: Airport Rd, Jauligrant, Uttarakhand 248143

Best time to visit Chopta: The best time to visit Chopta is between October and November when the weather is pleasant and not too hot or cold. 

Best season visit in Chopta: There are two seasons: summer and winter. Summer brings plenty of sunshine and warm days but also cold nights. It is perfect for exploring as there will not be much snow on the ground at this time of year. Winter brings cooler temperatures and more snowfall, which provides a different experience altogether!

Must-visit places in Chopta 

1. Tungnath
2. Chandrashila Trek
3. Omkar Ratneshwar Mahadev
4. Sari Village
5. Deoria Tal

Activities to do in Chopta

1. Trekking
2. Camping
3. Bird Watching and Photography 
4. Take a tour of Musk Deer Sanctuary
5. Enjoy an ancient culture with local people

18. Kalimpong, West Bengal

The popular tourist spot Kalimpong Hill station, in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, is a popular destination for travellers who want to explore the Himalayas.  It is popular for its spectacular views of the Himalayan mountain range and Mount Kanchenjunga. The best hill station in India has a rich cultural heritage with various festivals taking place throughout the year. 

The place is popular for its tea gardens and has beautiful views overlooking rolling hills and valleys that offer breathtaking scenery. Visitors can enjoy walking around this small hill town or take a tour with one of their friendly guides. Popular as the must-visit hill station in India, this offers panoramic views and fresh mountain air for visitors who like to hike around the area!

Nearest Airport: Bagdogra International Airport (Address: Airport Road, Bagdogra, Siliguri, West Bengal 734421)

Best time to visit Kalimpong: The best time to visit Kalimpong Hill station would be between October and March when it is not too cold or hot for tourists.

Best season visit in Kalimpong: The best season for a visit will be during winter when snowfall blankets the surrounding hillsides.

Must-visit places in Kalimpong

1. Morgan House
2. Zong Dong Palri Fo Brang Gompa
3. Crockety
4. Pine View Nursery
5. Kalimpong Science Centre

Activities to do in Kalimpong

1. Trekking 
2. Rock climbing 
3. Rappelling and zip-lining 
4. River rafting 
5. Bird watching and Photography 

19. Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh

Located in Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh, Pachmarhi Hill Station is a popular hill station in India that offers the perfect escape from the city. Packed with lush greenery and natural beauty, Pachmarhi Hill station is one of India’s most popular tourist destinations. In fact, the hills are believed to have many medicinal qualities for curing ailments like arthritis, asthma, cardiovascular diseases, etc., 

Famous as ‘Satpura ki Rani (Queen of Satpura)‘, Pachmarhi hill station is set amidst a lush green landscape and offers an amazing view of the Panna National Park and other surrounding locations. Tourists visiting Pachmarhi Hill Station can also experience adventure activities or simply enjoy a leisurely walk through these picturesque surroundings!

Nearest Airport: Bhopal Airport (Address: 78RM+47W, Raja Bhoj Airport Area, Bairagarh, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 462030)

Best time to visit Pachmarhi: The best time to visit Pachmarhi is between the months of November and June since the weather during the monsoons (July – September) can be quite unbearable. 

Best season visit in Pachmarhi: The best season for tourists to visit Pachmarhi is from October to March when there are pleasant weather conditions that range from cool to warm days with clear skies.

Must-visit places in Pachmarhi

1. Dhupgarh
2. Pandava caves
3. Bee Falls
4. Duchess Fall
5. Jata Shankar Cave

Activities to do in Pachmarhi

1. Trekking 
2. Cycling and Mountain Biking 
3. Fishing and Hunting
4. Wildlife Safaris
5. Rock Climbing

20. Coorg, Karnataka

Coorg hill station is a beautiful place located in Coorg, Karnataka. It has also been called the ‘Scotland of India‘ and offers an experience like no other. Coorg hill station lies on top of a mountain range that overlooks picturesque valleys and hills with lush forests and attracts a large number of tourists every year.

Located in the Western Ghats, Coorg offers many opportunities to explore the outdoors through wildlife sanctuaries, trekking trails, rivers, and lakes. Also, if you’re looking for the most pleasant place, then look no further than Coorg! This famous hill station in India offers some breathtaking views of nature that will leave your heart completely at peace.

Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport

Address: Bajpe Main Rd, Kenjar HC, Karnataka 574142

Best time to visit Coorg: The best time to visit Coorg hill station would be during the months of March to May or October to November due to pleasant weather conditions.

Best season to visit Coorg: The best season to visit Coorg hill station is during the monsoon season when you can enjoy the cool breeze and amazing greenery on your trip.

Must-visit places in Coorg

1. Abbey Falls, Iruppu Falls, and Mallalli Falls
2. Cauvery Nisargadhama
3. Talakaveri
4. Bhagamandala
5. Nagarahole National Park

Activities to do in Coorg

1. Experience the Surreal Beauty waterfalls
2. Spend a little with Elephants at Dubare Elephant Camp
3. Enjoy a tour of Talacauvery
4. Whitewater Rafting in Barapole
5. Trekking, Hiking, and Camping

21. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

Kodaikanal means “The Gift of the Forest” is a popular hill station in India in the Kudanthai taluk of Dindigul District, Tamil Nadu. It offers the best natural environment and scenery view all around. Kodaikanal Hill station is not only famous for its pleasant weather but also for its rich flora and fauna with rare species like Nilgiri Tahr living here. 

Kodaikanal is also famous as ‘the princes of Hill Stations‘. Nestled in the Kodaikanal Hills, this beautiful place has a cool and pleasant climate throughout the year. In fact, Kodaikanal attracts tourists from all over the globe due to its picturesque landscapes, beautiful lakes, and dense forests. 

Nearest Airport: Madurai International Airport (Address: Airport Rd, Madurai, Tamil Nadu 625022)

Best time to visit Kodaikanal: The best time to visit Kodaikanal would be during the months of April and May as these months have pleasant weather and not too many tourists around. 

Best season to visit in Kodaikanal: The best season in Kodaikanal would be from November through February because it has winter-like conditions with very few tourists around.

Must-visit places in Kodaikanal

1. Kodaikanal Lake
2. Bear Shola Falls
3. Guna Cave
4. Dolphin’s Nose
5. Kurinji Andavar Temple

Activities to do in Kodaikanal

1. Trekking and bird-watching
2. Cycling around Kodaikanal Lake
3. Horse riding at the Botanical Gardens 
4. Watching the sunrise from atop Sulaiman’s Rock or Sunset Point 
5. Taking a boat ride on the Pambar River

22. Ponmudi, Kerala

Ponmudi is a hill station in the Kerala state of India also known as ‘Kashmir of Kerala‘. Popular as “Red Hills”, Ponmudi hill station is a popular honeymoon destination in India. Also, it has been known for its natural beauty and scenic views since ancient times and it has been mentioned in many scriptures like Ramayana, Mahabharata, Vaishnavite hymns (Padma Puranam), etc.

This hill station is a popular tourist destination in the Western Ghats which means ‘Hill of Flowers‘, and it’s easy to see why this place got its name! Moreover, there are about 40 species of orchids that grow here, as well as many other plants and animals found nowhere else on Earth. It’s an awesome place with lush green surroundings and fresh air that will rejuvenate your body and soul!

Nearest Airport: Trivandrum International Airport (Address: Airport Rd, Chacka, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695008)

Best time to visit Ponmudi: The Best time to visit Ponmudi hill station is during the months of October-March. 

Best season visit in Ponmudi: The Best season to visit Ponmudi is the winter season when you can see a lot of flowers and green meadows that will take your breath away with their beauty. 

Must-visit places in Ponmudi

1. Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary
2. Koyikkal Palace
3. Agasthyakoodam
4. Mankayam Falls
5. Varayattumotta

Activities to do in Ponmudi

1. Trekking 
2. Aranmula Boat Race
3. Hiking 
4. Cycling 
5. Water Sports 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which is the coldest hill station to visit in India?

Answer: Located in the Kargil district of the Union Territory of Ladakh in India, Dras Hill Station is one of the most popular and coolest hill towns in India. An escape to Ladakh, Dras is one of the important trekking points and offers a mesmerizing view of the famous pinnacles tiger hills, pimples and Tololing.

Q: Which is the coldest hill station of Jammu and Kashmir?

Answer: Pahalgam is said to be the coldest hill station of Jammu and Kashmir. It is a popular tourist destination in India as its lush green meadows and pristine waters attract thousands of tourists every year.

Q: Which is the most beautiful hill station in India?

Answer: Nainital Hill Station is considered one of the most beautiful hill stations in India. It is a charming lake town in the Himalayas also known as the picture-postcard ideal hill station. One of the most popular hill stations in India, Nainital is also famous for its Naini Lake where Lord Shiva performed his Tandav over the separation of Mother Sati.

Q: Which is the highest hill station in south India?

Answer: Anamudi situated in the Western Ghats is the highest peak in South India. Also known as the ‘Everest of South India’, this mountain is located at the top of the Eravikulam National Park. One can easily trek to reach Anamudi Peak from the entrance of Eravikulam National Park.

Conclusion

Whether it is about travelling to the Himalayas in the North East of India to the Nilgiri Mountains in the South or the amazing hill stations of West India, you will experience natural beauty at every hill station in India! To make your trips the best, we promise to provide you with all-inclusive (and cheap) holiday packages in India to visit top destinations like Himachal, Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir, Uttarakhand, or Sikkim. Whether you are looking for luxurious accommodation, sightseeing, or adventure activities, we at Shipra Travels – a leading travel agency in Chandigarh (Tricity) will provide you with the best holiday planning.

We also offer international tour packages in case you want to explore foreign lands. Contact us at +91 800 023 5865 and we will ensure you get a chance to travel to your favourite hill station in India or abroad with all your travel needs.