Hill stations never go out of fashion when it comes to travel, but over these 1.5 years of the pandemic, so many things changed. The tourism industry was hit hard and so many hotels saw a permanent shutdown.Today we will take a look at some of the top hill stations of India that might have been on your list or maybe not. So let’s begin!
With the vaccinations rolling out, the travel and hospitality industry is seeing a good rise in guests. So, if you are vaccinated and ready to take all the precautions and travel, then this is the right article for you. Today we will take a look at some of the top hill stations of India that might have been on your list or maybe not. So let’s begin!
- Manali
Who wouldn’t put this on the list when it comes to the best hill stations of India?
Yes, Manali is that perfect location that is filled with snow, beautiful scenery of the Himalayas and so much more. With the pleasant temperature in the summers and chilling scenarios in the winters, you can enjoy everything that you only saw in the movies.
Being one of the popular hill stations of India, it is known as the Valley of Gods. Manali is internationally popular for its mesmerizing scenery, calm and tranquil surroundings, and the best place for adventure lovers. Located at a height of 2050m at the northern end of Kullu Valley is an ecstatic view that you would never want to leave.
Nearest Airport: Bhuntar (50 km)
Activities to do: Paragliding at Rohtang pass, river rafting, camping, and winter sports at Solang Valley
Places to visit: Hidimba Devi Temple, Bhrigu Lake, Manali Sanctuary
Also check out: Top places to see in Manali
- Gulmarg
Wow, Gulmarg is one of the most beautiful hill stations of India with breathtaking scenery. The ever–wonderful Gulmarg of Jammu & Kashmir is a must-visit place!
Situated at an altitude of 2,730m, Gulmarg town is surrounded by deep ravines, meadows, snow-capped mountains, serene valleys and so much more!
You can’t miss this hill station of India, it is internationally popular and gorgeous.
Nearest Airport: Srinagar (56 km)
Activities to do: Skiing at Gulmarg Backcountry Ski Lounge, snowboarding, night camping at Single Nallah
Places to visit: Gulmarg Gondola, Seven Springs, Maharani Temple
Also check out: Attractions of Dehradun
- Shimla
Shimla is not the snow kind hill station but the beauty is amazing. Set against forests of oak, deodar, and pine, Shimla gives you one fascinating sight. It is one of the most visited hill stations in India!
Because of its massive popularity, there is no particular off-season there, but anyway, the off-season time is less crowded than the season time. You can do many things here when you visit with your friends or family like visit Chadwick Falls, The Ridge Mall Road, etc.
Nearest Airport: Chandigarh (113 km)
Activities to do: shopping at Mall road, river rafting at Tattapani, paragliding, heli-skiing at Narkanda
Places to visit: Jakhoo Temple, Christ Church, Himachal State Museum
Also check out: Tawang – A blissful heaven on earth
- Kasol
Kasol is one of the most beautiful hill stations of India that is set at the banks of the Parvati River. You can visit this hill station when you are traveling to Jammu & Kashmir.
Nearest Airport: Bhuntar (31 km)
Activities to do: trekking at Chalal trekking trail, sightseeing, etc.
Places to visit: Parvati River, Tirthan Valley, Raghunath Mandir
- Nainital
Nainital is called heaven on earth, and why not? It is one of the most stunning hill stations of India popular for its scenery and other recreational activities.
Did you know Nainital is also known as the Lake District of India?
Nainital has become people’s favourite hill station of India during the scorching summer season. You can also visit the popular Jim Corbett National Park from here and indulge in adventurous boating activities and explore caves.
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar (1-hour drive), Delhi (301km)
Activities to do: horse riding at Tiffin top, Cave garden exploration, camping, and bird watching
Places to visit: Nainital Lake, Naina Devi Temple, Naini Peak
- Mussoorie
Mussoorie has become a popular destination for films, shows and that has led to a rise in tourism here. Mussoorie is situated way up at Garhwal on the top of a horseshoe crest. It is one of the best hill stations in India.
Here you will get a beautiful view of the Doon valley and the Himalayas. The town situated along the hills is one hell of a view.
Nearest Airport: Dehradun (54km)
Activities to do: ziplining and other adventure sports, boating and amusement rides at Company Bagh
Places to visit: Mussoorie Lake, Christ Church, Bhadraj Temple
- Almora
If you are on a tight budget then you can visit Almora, it is one of the least expensive hill stations in India, you will experience a breath of fresh and natural air along with beautiful green scenery.
Located at 1,651m, you will experience the rich heritage of the Himalayas and you can also explore the Nanda Devi Temple, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, and a lot more.
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar (125km)
Activities to do: trekking at Ranikhet road, exploring rock shelters, deer park
Places to visit: Nanda Devi Temple, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, Zero Point
- Palampur
To get a breathtaking view of lush green valleys and cold weather, Palampur is the right place for you. It is home to many rivers, streams, and lakes. When you visit Palampur – you will see tea plantations flourishing here – so don’t forget to buy some for yourself.
Many paragliding activities are also conducted here and the best time to visit here in the summers. The tall deodar trees give you an ample amount of shade and a cool atmosphere while you trek.
Nearest Airport: Gaggal (1-hour drive), Amritsar (231km)
Activities to do: paragliding at Kangra Valley, picnic in Saurabh Van Vihar
Places to visit: Tea estates, Tashi Jong Khampagar Monastery, Birni Devi Temple
- McLeodganj
Situated in Himachal, this small Tibetan town is known for its unique name and monasteries. McLeodganj is a beautiful combination of snow-capped mountains, aesthetic Buddhist Monasteries, and a pleasant climate. This hill station is an ideal choice for a great holiday by the hills.
Nearest Airport: Gaggal Airport
Activities to do: boat rides at Dal lake, camping at Triund, local market shopping
Places to visit: Tibetian museum, Namgyal Monastery, Bhagsu Falls
- Chopta
Well, all snow lovers must visit this hill station. During the winters it becomes the perfect destination for snow trekking and the rest of the year, it promises a wide stretch view of grasslands called the Bugyals. You and your family must visit this place in winter – it is worth it!
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun)
Activities to do: trekking, snow trekking, camping, hiking, rock climbing, rappelling, etc.
Places to visit: Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, Tungnath Temple, Deoria Tal Lake
So, these are the top 10 hill stations of India that you can’t miss if you are planning your trip this year. Most of these hill stations are pleasant all year round because of their altitude and the tourist crowd is the maximum during summertime. Whether it is the summers or the winters – it is cold here and all the views are breathtaking. Make sure to try different fun activities here which you never tried before!
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