Hill Stations in India For a Perfect Holiday

Known For : Dal Lake Gulmarg Gondola Shankaracharya Temple

Popularly referred to as the "Paradise on Earth," Kashmir is a breathtaking region in northwestern India. Historically part of the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir, Jammu & Kashmir was declared a Union Territory in 2019. The major cities in the Kashmir Valley include Srinagar, Gulmarg, Anantnag, and Baramulla. Nestled in the Himalayan, Pir Panjal and Karakoram mountain ranges, it is known for its scenic splendor, snow-capped mountains, plentiful wildlife, exquisite monuments, hospitable people, and local people handicrafts.

Best Time: September - November; March - May

34 Kashmir Attractions

Known For : Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Darjeeling Peace Pagoda Himalayan Mountaineering Institute

Jaw-dropping locales, mesmerising sunrises, the untouched beauty of the hills, the old-world charm of the past, and the welcoming smiles of the local people all add up to make Darjeeling one of the most beautiful hill stations in Eastern part of India. Spread over a steep mountain ridge, nestled amidst acres of lush green tea plantations, Darjeeling stands at the height of 2,050 meters above sea level, thus boasting of cool climes all year round. With its breathtaking vistas and serene ambiance, Darjeeling ranks among the top hill stations in India.

Best Time: February to March, September to December

31 Darjeeling Attractions

Known For : Eravikulam National Park Mattupetty Dam Kolukkumalai Tea Estate

Famous for the tea estates, greenery, winding roads, blanket of mist, and viewpoints, Munnar is a hill station in Kerala, located in the Idukki district. Lying in the Western Ghats at 1600 metres, it is one of the most sought after and visited hill stations in India, especially popular amongst honeymooners.

Best Time: September to May

54 Munnar Attractions

Known For : Solang Valley Hadimba Devi Temple Manali Mall Road

Nestled in between the snow-capped slopes of the Pir Panjal and the Dhauladhar ranges, Manali is one of the most popular hill stations in India. With jaw-dropping views, lush green forests, sprawling meadows carpeted with flowers, gushing blue streams, a perpetual fairy-tale like mist lingering in the air, and a persistent fragrance of pines and freshness - Manali has been blessed with extraordinary scenic beauty.

Best Time: October to June

53 Manali Attractions

Known For : Nathula Pass MG Marg Tsomgo Lake

Incredibly alluring, pleasantly boisterous and wreathed in clouds - Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, is one of the most popular hill stations in India. Lying at the height of 1650 m above sea level, the town during its bright sunny days offers spectacular views of Mt. Kanchenjunga. Gangtok is a base for adventure enthusiasts comprising of trekkers and campers to the Himalayan mountain ranges. Dzongri Trek, Varsey/Barsey Trek, and Tholung Trek are among the most popular treks departing from Gangtok.

Best Time: Throughout the year

34 Gangtok Attractions

Known For : Jakhu Temple Mall Road, Shimla Rashtrapati Niwas (Viceregal Lodge)

Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh, is a beloved hill station in India among Indian families and honeymooners alike. Situated at an altitude of 2200m, it served as the summer capital of British India. Even today, the hill station exudes its old-world charm, boasting stunning colonial architecture, a pedestrian-friendly Mall Road, and a ridge adorned with numerous shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Best Time: October to June

65 Shimla Attractions

Known For : Umiam Lake Elephant Falls Shillong Peak

Nestled amidst pine trees, Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, is a charming hill station in India. It derives its name from Lei Shyllong, an idol worshipped at the Shillong Peak. Standing tall at 1496 meters, Shillong offers respite from the heat prevalent across the country. Renowned for its picturesque sights and rich traditions, this hill station is a delight to visit in all seasons. The gentle drizzles and cooling winds enhance the joy of experiencing the serene ambiance of Shillong.

Best Time: September to May

33 Shillong Attractions

Known For : Dilwara Temples (Delwada Temple) Toad Rock Mount Abu Sunset Point

Mount Abu, the only hill station in Rajasthan, is renowned for its cool atmosphere and lush green surroundings, making it a popular destination among hill stations in India. While the scenic beauty of the region attracts tourists, the Dilwara temples stand out as the most important attraction, showcasing stunning architecture that is unparalleled in the country. For history and architecture enthusiasts, a visit to Mount Abu is a must, offering a chance to explore the rich cultural heritage of India amidst its serene hill station ambiance.

Best Time: October to March

20 Mount Abu Attractions

Known For : Triund Bhagsu Falls Bhagsunag Temple

Mcleodganj, Himachal Pradesh, is one of the most popular hill stations in India and a renowned tourist destination known for its Tibetan culture, nature treks, greenery, ancient temples & monasteries, and British influence. Located in the Kangra district, it's on the outskirts of Dharamshala. Famous for being home to the Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama, Mcleod Ganj is culturally blessed by a prominent Tibetan influence owing to the major settlement of Tibetans here who fled their homeland.

Best Time: October to June

42 Mcleodganj Attractions

Known For : Edakkal Caves Banasura Sagar Dam Chembra Peak

Nestled amidst the Western Ghats, Wayanad in Kerala is renowned as one of the picturesque hill stations in India. Replete with waterfalls, historical caves, comfortable resorts, and homestays, Wayanad is famous for its spice plantations and wildlife. Walking through the sprawling spice plantations, trekking to the pre-historic caves, and experiencing a resort holiday are just a few of the many activities you can enjoy to get a taste of Wayanad's natural beauty and tranquility.

Best Time: Throughout the year

46 Wayanad Attractions

Known For : Tawang Monastery Sela Pass Madhuri Lake

Tawang, nestled in the Himalayas of Arunachal Pradesh, is a mesmerizing hill station in India known for its breathtaking mountain vistas and vibrant Buddhist culture. The town is home to the Tawang Monastery, one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in India, exuding spiritual tranquility and rich history. Its scenic beauty, coupled with ancient Buddhist sites and serene lakes, makes Tawang one of the most coveted hill stations in India for travelers seeking both spirituality and adventure.

Best Time: March - June; September - October

13 Tawang Attractions

Known For : Khardung La Magnetic Hill Shanti Stupa

Popularly known as a biker's paradise, Leh is one of the two capitals of Ladakh that has numerous passes linking various locations in the challenging terrain. The city is nestled in a valley at an elevation of around 3,520 m in the upper Indus River, enveloped by the colossal peaks of the Ladakh Range. Regardless of its harsh weather and difficult accessibility, Leh was once an essential stopover for vital trade routes that connected Tibet to the East, Kashmir to the West and India to China. Positioned amidst the Himalayas, Leh stands as one of the captivating hill stations in India, offering breathtaking views and adventurous experiences to travelers and bikers alike.

Best Time: April to July

17 Leh Attractions

Known For : Mussoorie Mall Road Lal Tibba Kempty Falls

Mussoorie is one of the most popular hill stations in India, located at a distance of 290 km from Delhi in the Dehradun district of Uttarakhand. With a backdrop of the Shivalik range of Himalayas and doon valley, Mussoorie, also known as Queen of The Hills, stands at an altitude of 7000 feet above sea level. With a cool and pleasant climate throughout the year, Mussoorie was once the British summer capital.

Best Time: September to June

36 Mussoorie Attractions

Known For : Skiing in Auli Trishul Peak Auli Ropeway

Dotted with the apple orchards, old oaks, and pine trees, Auli is one of the most picturesque hill stations in India. There is no dearth of natural beauty in Auli, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers. Apart from skiing, you can also go for numerous treks in the hills of Garhwal Himalayas and enjoy the spellbinding views of the snow-draped mountains. Dating back to the 8th Century AD, Auli is a popular hill resort in the Himalayan range, offering visitors a tranquil retreat amidst stunning landscapes.

Best Time: December - February

12 Auli Attractions

Known For : Hill View Park Idukki Arch Dam Kulamavu Dam

Idukki, located in Kerala, India, is a picturesque hill station known for its abundant natural beauty. Situated amidst lush forests covering more than half of its area, Idukki boasts wildlife sanctuaries, charming bungalows, tea factories, rubber plantations, and dense forests. However, the highlight of Idukki is its impressive arch dam, spanning 650 feet in length and 550 feet in height, nestled amid the Kuravan Kurathi mountain range. This remarkable feat of engineering is the largest of its kind in the country, making Idukki a must-visit destination among hill stations in India.

Best Time: Throughout the year

38 Idukki Attractions

Known For : Nilgiri Mountain Railway Ooty Lake Emerald Lake, Ooty

The Blue Mountains have always been shrouded in mysticism, and Ooty is no exception to that. For every mountain lover, the very idea of traveling to the city known as the Queen of the Hills holds an allure like no other. Once regarded as the summer headquarters of the East India Company (and for a very good reason), Ooty, also known as Udagamandalam, is a hill station in Tamil Nadu which serves as a very popular tourist destination for anyone looking for a picturesque place to relax and unwind. Ooty is among the most famous hill stations in India.

Best Time: Throughout the year

43 Ooty Attractions

Known For : Green Valley View (Suicide Point) Kodaikanal Lake Bear Shola Falls

Located in the state of Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal is one of the most famous hill stations in India and a popular honeymoon destination. A Lakeside resort town, Kodaikanal boasts a beautiful climate, mist-covered manicured cliffs, and waterfalls that come together to create the ideal setting for a perfect getaway. The name Kodaikanal means 'the gift of the forests', reflecting its lush green surroundings and serene ambiance.

Best Time: September to May

35 Kodaikanal Attractions

Known For : Naini Lake Snow View Point Mall Road Nainital

One of the most beautiful hill stations in India and a popular tourist destination in Uttarakhand, Nainital, nestled amidst the Kumaon Hills, is a quaint hill station built around a uniquely shaped lake known as the 'Naini Lake' (thus contributing to its name Nainital). Also famously known as 'City of Lakes,' Nainital abounds in natural beauty, with its snow-capped hills and tranquil lakes lending it a nostalgic charm of its own.

Best Time: Throughout the year

33 Nainital Attractions

Known For : Abbey Falls Mandalpatti Raja's Seat

Located amidst imposing mountains in Karnataka with a perpetually misty landscape, Coorg is one of the most picturesque hill stations in India. This popular coffee producing hill station is not only renowned for its beautiful green hills and the streams cutting right through them but also stands as a popular destination because of its culture and people. The Kodavas, a local clan specialising in martial arts, are especially notable for their keen hospitality.

Best Time: October to March

37 Coorg Attractions

Known For : Dal Lake Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden Shalimar Bagh Mughal Garden

Famously known as 'Heaven on Earth', Srinagar is located in the union territory of Jammu & Kashmir, on the banks of river Jhelum. Srinagar is one of the most picturesque hill stations in India, known for the stationary houseboats and gondola-type rowboats - Shikaras on Dal Lake. Adorned with tranquil Dal Lake & Nigeen Lake, Srinagar is the dream destination for honeymoon and family holidays.

Best Time: April to October

56 Srinagar Attractions

Known For : Gulmarg Gondola Alpather Lake Apharwat Peak

Situated at an altitude of 2730 m above sea level, Gulmarg is a popular skiing destination located in Pir Panjal Range of Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Surrounded by snow-covered lofty Himalayas, meadows of flowers, deep ravines, evergreen forested valleys, Gulmarg also has the world's second-highest Gondola ride. This makes Gulmarg one of the most sought-after hill stations in India.

Best Time: October to June

30 Gulmarg Attractions

Known For : Manikaran Sahib Nature Park Kasol Tosh

Kasol, a quaint little village in Himachal Pradesh, nestled along the banks of the river Parvati, is often regarded as the 'Amsterdam of India'. This hill station in India is rapidly gaining fame as a popular hub for trekkers, backpackers, and nature lovers alike. Situated 23 kilometers from Bhuntar and adjacent to the religious town of Manikaran, Kasol is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, offering visitors the perfect opportunity to unwind amidst snow-clad mountains, pine trees, and serene river views. Whether it's soaking in the tranquility of the surroundings or embarking on thrilling trekking adventures, Kasol stands out as one of the best hill stations in India to experience the beauty of nature at its finest.

Best Time: October to June

30 Kasol Attractions

Known For : Elephant's Head Point Chinaman's Falls Dhobi Waterfall

Mahabaleshwar, a popular hill station in India, is located in the Western Ghats, in Satara district of Maharashtra. Apart from its strawberries, Mahabaleshwar is also well known for its numerous rivers, magnificent cascades and majestic peaks. It is among the most sought after weekend getaways from Pune & Mumbai, located about 120km south-west of Pune and 285km from Mumbai.

Best Time: October to June

31 Mahabaleshwar Attractions

Known For : Tiger's Leap Rajmachi Fort Imagicaa

Popular hill station close to Pune and Mumbai, Lonavla is the place to be during monsoons. With lots of waterfalls, lakes, and hills around, Lonavala is frequented by all sorts of people, especially hikers and trekkers. Lonavla is one of the favorite hill stations in India, offering scenic beauty and adventurous opportunities to visitors from Pune, Mumbai, and beyond.

Best Time: Throughout the year

41 Lonavala Attractions

Known For : Bee falls Jata Shankar caves Pandava Caves

Pachmarhi, often dubbed the "Queen of Satpura," is a serene hill station in India, nestled amidst the Satpura Range. Renowned for its ancient caves, cascading waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna, it offers a refreshing escape from the hustle of city life. As one of the premier hill stations in India, Pachmarhi holds a unique allure with its rich history, picturesque views, and the Satpura National Park.

Best Time: Throughout the year

18 Pachmarhi Attractions

Known For : Panchpula Khajjiar Dainkund Peak

The tiny tinsel town Dalhousie, nestled in the lap of Himachal Pradesh, is a quintessential hill station in India and a piece of paradise for all travelers. It boasts of old-world charm, mesmerizing natural landscapes, pine-clad valleys, flower-bedecked meadows, fast-flowing rivers, magnificent misty mountains, and some of the most spectacular views in the world. The air smells of Scottish and Victorian architecture, and the ambiance reminds you of the pristine British flavors.

Best Time: Throughout the year

28 Dalhousie Attractions

Known For : Triveni Ghat Rafting in Rishikesh Lakshman Jhula

Situated along the convergence of Ganga and Chandrabhaga, Rishikesh on the foothills of the Himalayas is a prominent hill station in India. It serves as the hub of many ancient temples, popular cafes, yoga ashrams, and adventure sports. Rishikesh offers the most beautiful blend of spiritual and adrenaline-pumping experiences. With the whitewater rafting industry growing and a number of camping and cafe spots springing up, Rishikesh has grown immensely as a favorite destination, catering to people with different needs.

Best Time: Throughout the year

54 Rishikesh Attractions

Known For : Kaas Plateau Table Land Mahabaleshwar

Panchgani, nestled amidst the Sahyadri mountain range in Maharashtra, is a picturesque hill station in India known for its panoramic vistas and pleasant climate. Renowned for its verdant tableland and strawberry farms, the town has been a favored retreat since colonial times. Apart from its natural beauty, Panchgani is also celebrated for its esteemed educational institutions, which have been a part of its heritage for over a century.

Best Time: September to May

13 Panchgani Attractions

Known For : Louisa point Charlotte lake Monkey Point Matheran

Nestled amidst the Sahyadri range on the Western Ghats, Matheran is a cosy little hill station in India that stands at an elevation of 2600 feet above sea level, and is just 100 kilometres away from Mumbai, making it the perfect weekend getaway. With its name literally translating to "overhead forest", Matheran is the smallest hill station in all of India, but it is extremely popular in terms of tourists looking for a short trip amid spectacular vistas and serenity.

Best Time: Throughout the year

29 Matheran Attractions

Known For : Pemayangtse Monastery Rabdentse Ruins Khecheopalri Lake

Pelling is a small town located in the West district of Sikkim, at an altitude of 2,150 meters (7,200 feet) above sea level. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Sikkim, known for its breathtaking views of the Himalayas and the famous Kanchenjunga peak, the third-highest mountain in the world. Formerly covered by a dense wild forest that was a haven for many native wild creatures, this destination has evolved into a place loved by adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers and has become the second biggest tourist hotspot in Sikkim after Gangtok.

Best Time: March to May, September to November

9 Pelling Attractions

Known For : Artist Village Hatgadh Fort Vansda National park

Nestled in the Sahyadris or the Western Ghats, Saputara is a quaint little hill station in the Dang district of Gujarat, making it one of the favored hill stations in India. Popular for lush green forests, undulating mountains, dazzling waterfalls, dreamy winding roads, livid landscapes, and plenty of charming cubbyholes to spend time with your loved ones, the town is the first favorite among tourists. It is located at a height of 875 meters above sea level and is a perfect getaway for eco-lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and people who love adventure sports.

Best Time: Mid March to mid November

20 Saputara Attractions

Known For : Nathatop Skiing in Patnitop Naag Mandir

Patnitop, nestled in the Shivalik Belt of the Himalayas in Jammu and Kashmir, India, is a captivating hill station known for its breathtaking natural beauty. Characterized by dense pine forests and lush green meadows, this hill station in India provides a tranquil retreat with panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks. Renowned for its adventure activities like skiing and paragliding, Patnitop is a haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike, making it one of the most sought-after hill stations in India.

Best Time: Throughout the year

13 Patnitop Attractions

Known For : Key Monastery Chandratal Lake Pin Valley National Park

Long winding roads and valleys that present unforgettable glimpses of cold desert and snow-crowned mountains welcome you when you set foot into Spiti Valley, one of the most captivating hill stations in India. Bordered on all sides by the Himalayas, Spiti Valley, located in Himachal Pradesh, has an altitude of 12,500 feet above sea level, and gets just around 250 days of sunshine in the year, making it one of the coldest places in the country.

Best Time: Mid May to Mid Oct

40 Spiti Attractions

Known For : Khajjiar lake Homestay Experience in Khajjiar Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary

Often referred to as the 'mini-Switzerland of India', Khajjiar is a small town located close (20km) to Dalhousie and is great for a day or overnight trip. Khajjiar is known for its picture-perfect grassy meadows, making it one of the most captivating hill stations in India. There is the Khajjiar Lake in the middle of the meadow, where visitors can enjoy the scenery by camping or take part in some of the adventure sports including paragliding, zorbing, and horse-riding.

Best Time: Throughout the year

14 Khajjiar Attractions

Known For : Dalai Lama Temple St. John in the Wilderness Church Dharamshala Cricket Stadium

Dharamsala, one of the renowned hill stations in India, is famed as the holy residence of the Dalai Lama and serves as the home of the Tibetan monk in exile. Located in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, Dharamsala is situated approximately 18 kilometers from Kangra City. The city is characterized by its distinctive division into upper and lower regions, each boasting different altitudes. The lower division comprises the bustling Dharamsala town, while the upper division is popularly known as Mcleodganj, adding to the charm of this hill station in India.

Best Time: October to June

40 Dharamsala Attractions

Known For : Baba Budangiri Mullayanagiri Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

Popularly known as the ‘Coffee Land of Karnataka’, Chikmagalur is situated in the foothills of the Mullayangiri Range and is one of the most beautiful hill stations in Karnataka, making it a top choice among hill stations in India. Chikmagalur has a perpetual fragrance of coffee lingering in the air with it plenty of coffee plantations. Famous for its tall mountains, lush green forests, and its tranquil environment (apart from its coffee production), Chikmagalur is a very popular tourist destination and is a quick retreat for the people of Karnataka.

Best Time: Throughout the year

22 Chikmagalur Attractions

Known For : Monkey Point Toy Train Ride Timber Trail

Nestled amidst the Himalayas, Kasauli is a charming hill station in India located on the road from Chandigarh to Shimla in the Solan district. This hilly cantonment town is renowned for its tranquil ambiance, making it an ideal destination for a peaceful holiday, particularly for a weekend getaway. Kasauli boasts a rich colonial heritage, with lavish Victorian buildings adorning the landscape, remnants of the British era. Visitors can explore the quaint village's nature trails and picturesque viewpoints, offering stunning vistas of the surrounding hills and valleys.

Best Time: March - June; September - November

12 Kasauli Attractions

Known For : Emerald Lake, Yercaud Pagoda Point Botanical Garden, Yercaud

Nestled in the Shivaroy Hills of Tamil Nadu, Yercaud is a hill station in the Eastern Ghats steeped in abundant greenery. Commonly called ‘Ooty of the Poor’, this region has a history dating back to the time of the British. Located at an altitude of 4970 feet, Yercaud is known for its vast expanses of coffee plantations and great weather. As one of the charming hill stations in India, Yercaud offers a tranquil escape amidst its lush landscapes and pleasant climate.

Best Time: October to June

20 Yercaud Attractions

Known For : Bhulla Lake Tip N Top Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple

Perched amidst the Garhwal Hills of Uttarakhand, Lansdowne is a quaint little hill town that not many tourists know of. Off the beaten tourist trail, Lansdowne is an untouched, pristine town, miles away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Situated at 5670 feet above sea level, Lansdowne is more famously known for being home to the Garhwal Rifle regiment of the Indian Army. This makes it one of the charming hill stations in India, offering visitors a serene retreat amidst the picturesque landscapes of the Garhwal Hills.

Best Time: Throughout the year

14 Lansdowne Attractions

Known For : Toy Train Tashi Jong Monastery Saurabh Van Vihar

Palampur, set in the heart of Himachal Pradesh, is a serene hill station in india known for its lush tea gardens and mesmerizing Kangra Valley views. A confluence of water streams flowing from the Dhauladhar range gives the town its unique character and a backdrop of majestic mountains. Aside from its natural beauty, Palampur is also a hub for adventure sports and houses several ancient temples, making it an alluring mix of nature, culture, and adventure.

Best Time: March -June; September - November

11 Palampur Attractions

Known For : Skiing in Kufri Horse Ride to the Mahasu Peak Mahasu Peak

Kufri is a quaint little hill station in india 20km away from Shimla,Himachal Pradesh. Earlier known to be the summer retreat for the British in 1819, Kufri still harbors its past through the colonial buildings and architecture around. With its pleasant summer weather and winter snowfall, Kufri is flocked by tourists almost at all times. However, snowfall is at its peak from November to March, which is also the best time to visit Kufri.

Best Time: November to March

13 Kufri Attractions

Known For : Malshej Falls Pimpalgaon Joga Dam Harishchandragad

Malshej Ghat, nestled in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, is one of the stunning hill stations in India, offering a picturesque mountain pass renowned for its cascading waterfalls, dense forests, and diverse flora and fauna. A monsoon haven, the region comes alive with verdant landscapes and is frequented by exotic migratory birds, especially flamingos. Its misty hills, serene lakes, and historic forts make it a favorite getaway for nature lovers, trekkers, and history enthusiasts.

Best Time: July to March

4 Malshej Ghat Attractions

Known For : Abbey Falls Talacauvery Namdroling Monastery

Madikeri, a hill town in Karnataka, is one of the charming hill stations in India, often included in trips to Coorg. Nestled amidst vast coffee plantations, lush forests, and misty hills, Madikeri offers a breathtaking view that captivates visitors. Located in the Kodagu District, approximately 6 hours from Bengaluru, Madikeri serves as a perfect weekend getaway for those seeking solace amidst nature's beauty.

Best Time: February to September

18 Madikeri Attractions

Known For : Paragliding in Bir Billing Chokling Monastery Gunehar Waterfall

Nestled in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, Bir is a quaint hill station in India renowned for its serene surroundings and tranquil ambiance. Bir Billing, situated in the Joginder Nagar valley, is a sought-after destination among adventure enthusiasts for its thrilling paragliding opportunities, while also serving as a haven for meditation enthusiasts. The town boasts a vibrant Tibetan community, imparting a distinct cultural charm with its influence on local traditions and cuisine. Whether soaring high above the picturesque landscapes or seeking inner peace amidst the serene surroundings, Bir Billing offers a unique blend of adventure and spirituality amidst the breathtaking vistas of the Indian hill stations.

Best Time: March - May; September - November

29 Bir Attractions

Known For : Umbrella Falls Wilson Dam Kalsubai Peak

Bhandardara, a hill station nestled in the Sahyadri ranges of Maharashtra, is one of the serene hill stations in India, blessed with all of nature's abundance. The lush greenery, serene waterfalls, and towering mountains surrounding the area make it an ideal holiday destination for city dwellers seeking respite from urban life.

Best Time: June to March

7 Bhandardara Attractions

Known For : Punganur Lake Nature Park Jalagamparai Falls

A quaint little hill station located in Vellore, Yelagiri is just three hours away from Bangalore, making it one of the perfect spots for a quick weekend getaway among the hill stations in India. Spread a little over 30 square kilometres, and at a height of over 1100 metres above sea level, Yelagiri offers its tourists some beautiful places like the Jalagamparai falls, sweeping orchards, and rose garden, among others.

Best Time: November to February

13 Yelagiri Attractions

Known For : Kudremukh Trek Kudremukh National Park Hanuman Gundi Falls

Popular among the Bangalore crowd and known for its biodiversity and scenic beauty, Kudremukh is one of the popular hill stations in India. Named after a mountainside that resembles a horse's face, Kudremukh is actually a hill range located in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka. The Kudremukh Peak, a paradise for trekkers and naturists alike, offers mesmerizing mountainous paths and a rich diversity of flora and fauna.

Best Time: October to May

10 Kudremukh Attractions

Known For : Sitla Chauli ki Jaali Mukteshwar Dham Temple

Mukteshwar is a small hill town located around 50 km from Nainital in Uttarakhand, making it one of the charming hill stations in India. Known for adventure sports and a dazzling view of the Himalayan ranges, Mukteshwar is named after the 350-year-old Shiva Temple housed here called Mukteshwar Dham.

Best Time: October to June

12 Mukteshwar Attractions

Known For : Tungnath Temple Deori Tal Tungnath and Chandrashila Trek

Chopta, a small hamlet located in Uttarakhand, is a trekker's heaven and one of the picturesque hill stations in India. The base camp of treks like Tungnath, Deoria Tal, and Chandrashila, Chopta is an ideal destination for intermediate trekkers to go on a guided trek and brush up their skills. Chopta promises a life-altering expansion of your boundaries, offering stunning vistas and challenging trails for outdoor enthusiasts to explore.

Best Time: March to June

5 Chopta Attractions

Known For : Chamera Lake Manimahesh Lake Church of Scotland

Chamba, nestled in the Himalayas, is a charming hill station in India located in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh. Known for its ancient temples, caves, and historical edifices, Chamba offers mesmerizing views of the Pir Panjal, Zanskar, and Dhauladhar ranges. Situated at an elevation of 996 meters on the banks of the river Ravi, this picturesque town is flanked by the regions of Jammu and Kashmir, Lahaul, and Kangra, making it a delightful destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

Best Time: October to June

18 Chamba Attractions

Known For : Zero Point Jageshwar Kasar Devi

Set in the background of snow-capped Himalayan ranges of Uttarakhand, the sprawling town of Almora is a beautiful hill station in India. With easy accessibility from Delhi and other major cities of North India, Almora is known for its rich cultural heritage, unique handicrafts, sumptuous cuisine, and magnificent wildlife. This town has two major rivers - Koshi (Kaushaki) and Suyal (Salmali).

Best Time: Throughout the year

16 Almora Attractions

Known For : Sim's Park Dolphin's Nose Ketti Valley

One of the three beautiful Nilgiri hill stations in India, Coonoor is the second largest hill station of the Western Ghats. It is situated at an altitude of 1930 meters and just 19 km from Ooty. With slopes of tea plantations, dotted with many attractions and blessed with chilly weather throughout the year, this place is a perfect summer retreat.

Best Time: October to March

17 Coonoor Attractions

Known For : Valley of Flowers National Park Nanda Devi National Park Fauna & Flora

Valley of Flowers is located in Chamoli district (near Badrinath) of Uttarakhand, approximately 300 km to the north of Rishikesh, making it one of the most enchanting hill stations in India. This picturesque national park graces the beauty of the Western Himalayas, offering a mesmerizing retreat for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike. Discovered in 1931, the Valley of Flowers is a World Heritage Site renowned for its wild untamed blooms set against a backdrop of towering white peaks, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking the pristine beauty of the Himalayan landscape.

Best Time: May to October

3 Valley Of Flowers Attractions

Known For : Chaubatia Orchards Majhkhali Golf Course

Ranikhet, nestled in the Kumaon hills of Uttarakhand, is one of the charming hill stations in India that offers a panoramic view of the majestic Himalayas and is often referred to as the "Queen's Meadow". This picturesque hill station boasts colonial-era architecture, ancient temples, and lush pine forests, providing a serene escape from the hustle of city life. With its cool climate and natural beauty, Ranikhet is a perfect retreat for those seeking tranquility amidst nature's grandeur.

Best Time: Throughout the year

22 Ranikhet Attractions

Known For : Morgan House Durpin Dara hill Cactus Nursery

Kalimpong, nestled in the northern part of West Bengal, is one of the captivating hill stations in India, offering breathtaking views of the Eastern Himalayan mountain range. This tranquil hill station, with its colonial-era architecture and vibrant local markets, showcases a blend of Tibetan and Nepalese culture. The region is also renowned for its orchid nurseries and traditional handicrafts, drawing visitors who appreciate both natural beauty and cultural richness.

Best Time: March to June, September to December

24 Kalimpong Attractions

Known For : Rajmachi Fort Visapur Fort Bedsa caves

Khandala, nestled in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, is a popular hill station in India known for its scenic beauty and lush green landscapes. With its cascading waterfalls, serene valleys, and hiking trails, it offers a refreshing escape from the bustling city life, especially for those from nearby Mumbai and Pune. The vantage points like Tiger's Leap and Duke's Nose provide panoramic views, making it a favored destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Best Time: Throughout the year

22 Khandala Attractions

Known For : Borra Caves Katiki Waterfalls Chaparai Waterfalls

Araku Valley, one of the lesser-known hill stations in India, is mostly frequented by locals seeking a weekend getaway. Situated approximately 120 kilometers away from Vishakhapatnam, this tranquil destination offers exclusivity amidst breathtaking landscapes. For tourists seeking a unique experience, the Vistadome train departs from Vishakhapatnam at 6.50 AM, traversing through 58 tunnels and crossing over 84 bridges en route to Araku. In just about 5 hours, travelers can embark on a memorable journey to discover the serene beauty of this hill station.

Best Time: September to February

8 Araku Valley Attractions

Nicknamed 'Andhra Ooty', this hill station located near Madanapalle town, is one of the three hill stations in Andhra Pradesh, making it a notable addition to the list of hill stations in India. With its peaks kissing the clear blue sky, a panoramic view of the virgin green cover, sweet chirpings of the birds, and colorful flora on the pathways, this place is surely going to take your breath away.