40 Best Hill Stations in India That Are a Traveler’s Paradise

India has a varied landscape that makes this country such a wonderful place to explore, both for nature lovers and adventurers.

From hill stations to barren deserts, there are so many places to visit in India that it could take you years to cover it all. Are you looking for some of the best hill stations in India to explore this year?

If yes, then don’t worry, we have got you covered. After visiting numerous hill stations in India, I have shortlisted down a few of the best hill stations in India that you should definitely visit.

Best Hill Stations in India

Rishikesh

Known as the Yoga capital of the world, Rishikesh is a great place to visit if you wish to silence your mind and want to learn how to practice yoga efficiently.

This northern city is located in Uttarakhand, beside the Ganges river and you will find a lot of temples and ashrams lining the eastern bank of this river.

Since this is a hill station in north India, this place tends to remain cool throughout the year and is a great place to simply relax and chill.

There are a lot of riverside cafés as well here where you can hang out and meet other travelers in your vicinity.

Also, make sure that you don’t miss out on the evening Aarti here, and do dip your feet in the chilling water for a rejuvenating experience.

Best time to Visit – March to May and September to November

Nearest Metro City – Delhi (240 km)

How to Reach – You can easily get a direct bus from Delhi to Rishikesh else you can take a train to Haridwar first and then a local bus from Haridwar to Rishikesh.

Trip Duration – 2 days

Trip Budget – 2500 INR

Kasauli

One of the popular hill stations in India, Kasauli is the perfect weekend getaway from Delhi and Chandigarh.

This quaint little town, located close to Shimla, is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings. And I have been here multiple times throughout my life till now.

And one of my best memories is associated with the local market where you get the most delicious Bun Samosas, a specialty here. Not to forget that the beautiful Gilbert trail also offers some breathtaking sunset views here.

There is also a Monkey Point from where you can enjoy the valley view and can actually watch the clouds pass by right in front of you, although I was pretty scared of all the monkeys that would be surrounding the area!

And not to forget the numerous cafés here where we chilled and hung out when I was studying in a boarding school here. Kasauli is undoubtedly a charming place to visit if you are looking for some quiet time.

Best time to Visit – April to June and September to November

Nearest Metro City – Delhi (290 km)

How to Reach – From Delhi, you can take a train to the Kalka railway station and then take an HRTC bus/cab to reach Kasauli.

Trip Duration – 2 days

Trip Budget – 2000 INR to 4000 INR

Bhimtal

Bhimtal is a small town located in the Nainital district in Uttarakhand and is barely 22 km from Nainital.

Although Bhimtal offers more or less the same views as Nainital with beautiful valleys and lakes it is more serene and quiet than Nainital. Here, you won’t find hordes of tourists crowding the place so you can actually enjoy yourself.

One of the main attractions of Bhimtal is the Bhimtal lake, you can sit beside the lake and enjoy the serene atmosphere otherwise you also have the option of boating in the lake.

So, if you are looking for a relaxing weekend getaway then Bhimtal is definitely one of the top places to consider.

Best time to Visit – Throughout the year

Nearest Metro City – Delhi (309 km)

How to Reach – From Delhi, you will get a train to Kathgodam and then you can take a bus, shared taxi, or a private taxi to reach Bhimtal. Since Bhimtal is not a touristy location, you will find it hard to flag cabs locally here.

Trip Duration – 2 days

Trip Budget – 3000 INR

Dehradun

Although technically, Dehradun is not a hill station, it is surrounded by Doon valley. So, if you are planning a visit to a place with a cool and pleasant temperature that offers valley views, then Dehradun fits the bill.

This semi-hill station is bordered by two holy rivers – Ganga and Yamuna and is the base for many popular treks in Uttarakhand.

From waterfalls to natural scenery, Dehradun has a lot to offer you and can be a great place to visit with your friends and family.

And if you wish to plan a longer trip, then you can go to nearby places from here such as Rishikesh, Haridwar, Landour, Dhanaulti, Mussorie, and so on.

Best time to Visit – Throughout the year

Nearest Metro City – Delhi (309 km)

How to Reach – From Delhi, you get direct buses and trains to Dehradun.

Trip Duration – 2 days

Trip Budget – 3000 INR

Mussoorie

A popular hill station in Uttarakhand, Mussoorie lies at the foothills of the Garhwal mountain ranges and is barely 35 km from Dehradun. And while it is a small hill station, there is a lot that can be done here for a weekend trip from the city.

One of my favorite things to do in Mussoorie is to take a walk around the local market and enjoy the scenic beauty that this place has to offer.

That’s not all, there are some other things to do here as well like boating in the Mussoorie lake, taking a dip in the Kempty waterfalls, and so on.

If you love hiking then hike to George Everest which is known for its gorgeous sunrise and sunset views of the valley.

Best time to Visit – Throughout the Year

Nearest Metro City – Delhi (320 km)

How to Reach – From Delhi, you can get direct buses to reach Mussoorie. Apart from that, you can always choose to reach Dehradun first via train or bus and then take a bus or cab to Mussoorie.

Trip Duration – 2 days

Trip Budget – 3000 INR

Shimla

Capital of Himachal Pradesh, Shimla is one of the best hill stations in India that can be visited throughout the year.

Located at an elevation of 2200m, this hill station was British India’s summer capital and is home to charming colonial architecture and several cute cafes and shops.

The weather stays cool and pleasant throughout the year, with occasional snowfall during the winter season.

There are several attractions for the tourists to explore here too such as the Christ Church, Jakhu Temple, the Mall Road, Ridge, and so on.

And the best thing about Shimla is the Kalka-Shimla railway line which is a UNESCO Heritage site so you can visit it and enjoy a ride on the toy train. So, if you are looking for a hill station with colonial vibes and cute places to hang out then Shimla is the perfect place for you.

Best time to Visit – Throughout the Year

Nearest Metro City – Delhi (343 km)

How to Reach – From Delhi, you can take a train to Kalka and then the toy train to reach Shimla. Alternatively, you can take a Volvo bus to Shimla directly from Delhi.

Trip Duration – 2 – 3 days

Trip Budget – 5000 INR

Narkanda

Narkanda is one of the offbeat hill stations in North India that would offers amazing skiing opportunities as well.

It is located at a height of 2700m and has a cool climate throughout the year. The apple and cherry orchards along with the majestic mountains offer a stunning view to the visitors.

If you love hiking, then you can make your way to the famous Hatu Peak or you can relax beside the gorgeous Tanni Jubbar Lake.

Best time to Visit – Throughout the Year

Nearest Metro City – Delhi (410 km)

How to Reach – From Delhi, you can take a train till Kalka and then take a bus to Narkanda. You can also take a bus to Shimla and then take a local bus to Narkanda.

Trip Duration – 2 days

Trip Budget – 2500 INR

Prashar

Another one of the best hill stations to visit in India is Prashar which is around 66 km from Mandi. This place is popularly known for its lake, the 13th-century temple, and the Dhauladhar range that surrounds this area.

If you love quiet and peaceful locations, then do visit Prashar Lake and enjoy a night here, camping under the stars.

And if you are looking for a little fun and adventure in your life, then you can trek to this lake from Baggi Village and enjoy the beautiful mountain views on the way.

Personally, I loved watching the sunset and the sunrise from the mountain here and can just not get enough of this place.

Best time to Visit – Throughout the Year

Nearest Metro City – Delhi (473 km)

How to Reach – Take a bus to reach Mandi and then take a bus or cab to reach Prashar. Alternatively, you can trek to Prashar lake from Baggi village too.

Trip Duration – 2 days

Trip Budget – 3000 INR

Kullu

One of the top hill stations in North India for adventure and nature lovers, Kullu is located near Beas River. This small hamlet is perfect for escaping the summer heat and enjoying the snowfall in winters.

The town is filled with pine trees that lends it a charming feel and there are lots of activities to do here to keep yourself entertained.

You can enjoy river rafting, paragliding, trekking, and other adventurous things here. Most importantly, it is a great base for visiting nearby places such as Kasol, Manali, Prashar, and so on.

Best time to Visit – Throughout the Year

Nearest Metro City – Delhi (490 km)

How to Reach – You can take a direct bus from Delhi to reach Kullu or you can take a flight to Kullu from different parts of India.

Trip Duration – 2 – 3 days

Trip Budget – 5000 INR

Rajgundha

Rajgundha is, by far, my favorite hill station in India and I am sure that most of you would be hearing about it for the first time.

This small hill station lies in the Kangra district, comfortably packed between Billing and Barot so the only way to reach this place is via trekking. But don’t worry, it is an easy trek with lots of amazing views and sceneries.

From Rajgundha, I have enjoyed the unobstructed view of the Dhauladhar mountain ranges and a clear view of the milky way galaxy from naked eyes.

Yes, that is all possible in Rajgundha because there is almost no pollution here due to a lack of vehicles. This is why it makes a great trekking and camping spot for people who are looking for some peace and fresh air to enjoy.

Best time to Visit – October to June

Nearest Metro City – Delhi (512 km)

How to Reach – From Delhi, you can either take a bus to Barot or a bus to Bir. From Bir, you will need to reach Billing in a taxi and then you can start trekking to Rajgundha which is 14 km from here. From Barot, Rajgundha is just a short 6.5 km trek and you will have to cross the Uhl river on the way.

Trip Duration – 3 days

Trip Budget – 5000 INR

Bir

One of the best hill stations in India, Bir is a small village located in the northern state of India. This place is a paradise for anyone who is looking for an offbeat yet convenient hill station to visit in the north.

This village is well-known for its ecotourism and spiritual aura. Here, you have several amazing Buddhist monasteries situated here that you can visit to attain peace and tranquility while replenishing your soul as well.

While I did love visiting the gorgeous and peaceful monasteries, there is another thing that really made me fall for this place. And that is the beautiful sunset views that you could witness from the Bir landing site.

Apart from that, I also tried paragliding here for the first as it is famous for it with millions of people visiting just to try paragliding. I also remember the time I spent here enjoying picnics by the waterfalls and river streams that made my stay at this place almost fairytale-like.

Best time to Visit – October to June (Paragliding and Trekking), July to October (Waterfalls and river stream)

Nearest Metro City – Delhi (512 km)

How to Reach – You will get private Volvo buses to Bir from Delhi regularly otherwise you can take a local or private bus to Palampur or Baijnath. From Palampur or Baijnath, you will get local HRTC buses and even cabs to reach Bir village.

Trip Duration – 3 to 5 days

Trip Budget – 5000 INR to 8000 INR

Kasol

While Kasol is popularly known as a party zone for smokers, that is not exactly why I love Kasol. What I really find commendable about Kasol is the hippie culture here along with the gorgeous Parvati Valley views that you can enjoy here.

That’s not all, there is also the Manikaran site which is perfect for spirituals and for anyone who wishes to experience the hot spring bath that is particularly famous here.

Apart from that, you can also go for the Kheerganga trek from Kasol that again offers some breathtaking views and waterfalls on the way.

Plus, you can enjoy the hot spring bath at the top of the Kheerganga trek and can camp under the stars, enjoying the peaceful and pollution-free nature.

Best time to Visit – Throughout the Year

Nearest Metro City – Delhi (511 km)

How to Reach –  You can easily get a bus from Delhi to Bhuntar and from there, you can take a local cab or bus to reach Kasol.

Trip Duration – 3 to 4 days

Trip Budget – 4000 INR

Manali

Of course, when we are discussing the best hill stations to visit in India, how can we forget Manali. The base for a lot of great treks such as Bhrigu Lake, Hampta Pass, Chanderkhani Pass, etc.,

Manali is a great place to visit in Himachal Pradesh. Situated at an elevation of 2050m, Manali has a cool and pleasant climate for the most part of the year and experiences snowfall in the winter season.

There are lots of amazing attractions including temples, nature parks, mall road, and lots of cafes with amazing views. If you love waterfalls, then head to the Jogini waterfall near Vashishth and Jana waterfall near Naggar.

And if you love cafes, then take a stroll in Old Manali and enjoy a meal in one of the charming cafes here. Trust me, you won’t run out of things to do in Manali and can easily spend a month here going on treks, chilling at cafes, shopping, and so on.

Best Time to Visit: Throughout the Year

How to Reach: From Delhi, you have several buses to reach Manali.

Distance from Delhi: Delhi (531 km)

Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days

Trip Budget: 4000 INR

Dalhousie

A town in Himachal Pradesh that covers 5 hills of Dhauladhar mountain ranges, Dalhousie is one of the best hill stations in India for exploring.

This is again a place that I have been to multiple times and each time, I have been completely mesmerized by its beauty and the views.

What is really amazing about Dalhouse is that you will find a lot of colonial-era buildings as well like St. John church, St. Francis church, etc. that were constructed during the British rule.

Apart from that, there are a few other good points of interest here as well like the Panchpula waterfall, Dainkund peak, Chamera Dam, Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, and so on.

My favorite place was the Dainkund peak from where I could observe the pine trees and just enjoy the valley view. And a short trip to Khajjiar is always a great idea to make the visit even more memorable.

Best time to Visit – Throughout the Year

Nearest Metro City – Delhi (565 km)

How to Reach – You can take a direct bus to reach Dalhousie from Delhi. Another alternative method to reach is to take a train from Delhi to Pathankot and then a bus or local cab to reach Dalhousie.

Trip Duration – 2 to 3 days

Trip Budget – 4000 INR

Sissu

Sissu is a small town in the Lahaul district that offers scintillating views of the mountains along with the Chenab river.

Located around 40 km from Manali, you can easily reach Sissu in just 1 hour via the new Atal Tunnel to enjoy a day trip to this place.

Moreover, the road and the scenic route to Sissu will take your breath away and make you fall in love with this place.

If you visit Sissu in the autumn season, you will be greeted with yellow trees giving you the perfect autumn vibes. One can easily spend a day here exploring the nearby waterfall, lake, and Helipad area.

You can also witness snowfall here during October and November which makes this entire place look absolutely magical.

Best time to visit – May to November

Nearest Metro City – Delhi (570 km)

How to Reach – You can take a direct bus to reach Manali and then hire a cab or rent a vehicle to reach Sissu.

Trip Duration – 2 to 3 days

Trip Budget – 4000 INR

Khajjiar

Khajjiar is a small hill station in the Chamba district and is around 24 km from Dalhousie. And this hill station in India makes for a perfect short weekend getaway spot, especially if you are looking for a laidback kind of weekend for yourself.

One of my favorite things to do in this hill station is to just sit beside the lake and take in the beautiful surrounding around me.

The pine forest surrounding the lake enclosure is absolutely enchanting and you can also go for small hikes around the area to get away from the crowd.

Apart from that, you can even indulge in several activities here like horseriding, water zorbing, paragliding, and so on. During the winter season, the entire area gets covered in a thick coat of snow and looks like a magical winter land.

Best time to Visit – Throughout the Year

Nearest Metro City – Delhi (575 km)

How to Reach – To reach Khajjiar, you will need to reach Dalhousie first. From Dalhousie, you can get a bus or cab to reach Khajjiar.

Trip Duration – 2 days

Trip Budget – 2000 INR

Sangla

Sangla is a beautiful town in the Kinnaur District that is close to the Tibetan border. The people in this valley are really sweet and speak in the local Kinnauri language.

Apart from the majestic mountain views, there are several interesting attractions to visit in and around this town. Kamru Fort, Batseri, Baspa River, etc. are just a few places that you cannot miss out on.

If you love trekking, then you will find lots of trails starting here including Rupin Valley Trek, Charang Chitkul Trek, and more.

This offbeat hill station is a perfect getaway from Delhi to relax and unwind a bit.

Best time to Visit – March to June

Nearest Metro City – Delhi (568 km)

How to Reach – Take a bus to Reckong Peo or Shimla from Delhi. Then, you can get a bus to Sangla from either of these places.

Trip Duration – 3 days

Trip Budget – 3000 INR

Reckong Peo

Headquarters of the Kinnaur district, Reckong Peo is another great hill station to visit in India. At an elevation of 2300m, this quaint town is known for its apple orchards and the Kinner Kailash views.

The deodar and pine trees in this town enhance its beauty as well. From Reckong Peo, you can head to nearby villages such as Kalpa, Roghi, etc. that have their own charm and attractions.

One of the places that you cannot miss out in Reckong Peo is the Brelangi Monastery. It is a tranquil place that offers you magnificent views of the Kailash mountain range.

Best time to Visit – March to June and September to December

Nearest Metro City – Delhi (572.5 km)

How to Reach – From Delhi, you can get a direct HRTC bus to Reckong Peo.

Trip Duration – 2 days

Trip Budget – 2500 INR

Chitkul

Located on the banks of Baspa Valley, Chitkul is the last village before the Indo-Tibet border and is a popular destination for nature lovers.

This village in Baspa Valley has beautiful wooden houses, a Buddhist temple, and a few temples for people to visit. It is also the starting point for Borasu Pass Trek and Lamkhaga Pass Trek.

Apart from the adventure and amazing architecture, this village offers you stunning views of the Himalayan mountain ranges as well.

Make sure that you eat a meal at the Last Dhaba of Chitkul and enjoy sitting beside the river while taking in the views around you.

Best time to Visit – March to July, September to November

Nearest Metro City – Delhi (590 km)

How to Reach – There is no direct bus from Delhi to Chitkul. So, you can either take a car or you can take a HRTC bus to Reckong Peo. From Reckong Peo, take a local bus to Chitkul that will take 2-3 hours.

Trip Duration – 3 days

Trip Budget – 4000 INR

Nako

Another hidden gem in the Kinnaur District, Nako is a beautiful and quiet hill station that you can visit from Delhi.

Personally, what I liked most about this place was how quiet and peaceful it was here. The view of the surrounding mountains and the zigzag road to the village is just too stunning.

There is a sacred lake here as well that can be accessed. And if you love hikes, then you can hike to a nearby temple to observe the lake from a height.

Also, the traditional houses in Nako will transport you into a different world. Spend a day chilling in this village, talk with the monks, hike to nearby viewpoints, there is a lot to do in Nako.

Best time to Visit – April to October

Nearest Metro City – Delhi (658 km)

How to Reach – To reach Nako, you will need to reach Shimla or Reckong Peo first. Then, take a taxi to Nako.

Trip Duration – 2 days

Trip Budget – 5000 INR

Kaza

One of the most popular hill stations to visit in Spiti district is Kaza which also happens to be the capital of Spiti Valley.

This beautiful town offers snow-covered mountain views, gorgeous landscape, a plethora of flora, and the access to the meandering river.

It is divided into two parts- New Kaza and Old Kaza. Old Kaza is home to the government offices while the New Kaza consists of the king’s palace.

Kaza has become a base for trekking enthusiasts and travellers who are exploring the other parts of Spiti. If you are looking for a unique landscape to enjoy, then you should definitely consider Kaza.

Best time to Visit – March to June

Nearest Metro City – Delhi (720 km)

How to Reach – From Delhi, you can take a bus to Manali and then a bus or taxi to Kaza.

Trip Duration – 2 days

Trip Budget – 5000 INR

Tabo

On the banks of Spiti River, Tabo is another great hill station to visit in Himachal Pradesh. This town lies in the Spiti Valley and has a unique yet stunning landscape.

The town is famous due to the Tabo Monastery which is said to be 1000 years old and is considered one of the holiest monasteries by Dalai Lama.

It is situated at an elevation of 3280m and experiences an unpredictable climate on most days. It quickly changes from sunny to cloudy or to snowfall so, be prepared.

Spend a couple of days meditating in the monastery and hiking to the nearby caves where the monks used to assemble to make the most of your trip.

Best time to Visit – May to October

Nearest Metro City – Delhi (720.5 km)

How to Reach – From Delhi, reach Shimla or Kaza and then take a bus to Tabo.

Trip Duration – 2 days

Trip Budget – 3000 INR

Hikkim

At an elevation of 4400m, Hikkim is another beautiful hill station that you can visit in North India.

Personally, this is one of my favourite destinations because of the lush greenery and stunning mountain views.

This small village is famous for its Post Office which is said to be the Highest Post Office in the World. Moreover, it is the highest place that has year-round residents.

If you want to witness snow-capped mountains in a secluded and quiet place, then Hikkim would be the perfect choice for you.

Best time to Visit – March to June

Nearest Metro City – Delhi (732 km)

How to Reach – Reach Kaza from Delhi and then take the local bus at 5 PM from Kaza to Hikkim.

Trip Duration – 2 days

Trip Budget – 5000 INR

Langza

Another offbeat destination in Spiti Valley, Langza is situated at a height of 4420m and is one of the most remote villages in India.

This village features Tibetan-style architecture, green fields, snow-capped mountains, and a huge statue of Buddha that makes the place quite magical.

Moreover, if you are an archaeology fan, then you are going to love this place. You can go fossil hunting in this village and come across fossils of distinct designs.

Trust me, this is one place that you should definitely check out if you are bored of visiting the the popular hill stations.

Best time to Visit – March to June

Nearest Metro City – Delhi (732 km)

How to Reach – From Delhi, reach Kaza. From Kaza, take the local bus at 5 PM to Langza.

Trip Duration – 2 days

Trip Budget – 5000 INR

Leh

Leh is one of the best hill stations in India as this is the gateway to the wonderful Ladakh region. This hill station offers the most unique views in comparison to all the other hill stations in India as there is fewer green but more barren mountains here.

Leh is particularly famous for its rugged mountains and valleys along with the winding roads and exuberant culture.

There is a lot to see in and around Leh. From the enchanting Magnetic hills to the Leh Palace and the gigantic Buddha statue, there is a lot to explore here.

And if you are a foodie like me then you have to try the local delicacies like Skew, Khambir, Tigmo, and so on. Also, Leh is a paradise for trek lovers as there are so many trails that originate from this hill station.

So, if you are looking for an adventurous trip then Leh fits the bill perfectly!

Best time to Visit – June to September (For road trips) and November to February (For flights)

Nearest Metro City – Delhi (1000 km)

How to Reach – The easiest way to reach Leh from Delhi is by taking a direct flight. However, if you are on a budget then you can reach Manali first and then take the government-run Volvo to Leh that includes a 1-night stay at Keylong as well.

You will even find local buses plying on this route but you would need to change the bus at Keylong and only 1 bus goes to Leh from Keylong every day (morning). So, plan your trip ahead of time.

Trip Duration – 10 days

Trip Budget – 15000 INR

Horsley Hills

One of the smallest hill stations in India, Horsley Hills is situated in the Madanapalle district in Andhra Pradesh and offers a view of the beautiful Andhra Pradesh hills.

While the hill station is small that it can be easily covered in a day, it does offer many amazing viewpoints to enjoy the serene environment here.

Also, around 30 km from Horsley Hills, you can visit the largest Banyan tree in the world which is considered sacred by the locals.

This picturesque location also offers several activities to indulge in like shooting, wall climbing, rappelling, mini zoo, trampolining, and so on. So, you can plan a short weekend trip to this destination and enjoy a calm and relaxed weekend.

Best time to Visit – Throughout the year

Nearest Metro City – Bangalore (160 km)

How to Reach – You will get a direct bus from Bangalore to Madanepalle and from there, you can take the local bus or an auto to Horsley Hills.

Trip Duration – 1 to 2 days

Trip Budget – 2000 INR

Ooty

Ooty, aka Udhagamandalam, is one of the most popular hill stations in South India. This resort town, founded during British rule, lies in the Western Ghats mountains and offers breathtaking valley views around the town.

And well, yet again, I have explored this place several times till now. One of my favorite things about Ooty is that the complete town is covered with coffee and tea plantations. So, there is greenery all around and they serve delicious tea and coffee here.

Apart from that, there are a few gorgeous lakes here as well and you cannot miss out on a day trip to the Avalanche Forest where you can spend some time near Avalanche lake and the Upper Bhavani lake.

Ooty is also famous for its working steam railway line so, you have to ride the Nilgiri Toy Train at least once to experience it.

Also, the homemade chocolates here are to-die-for! So, make sure that you take some home for your loved ones to enjoy.

Best time to Visit – Throughout the Year

Nearest Metro City – Bangalore (280 km)

How to Reach – You can reach Coimbatore by taking a bus or a train from Bangalore and then you can take a local bus to Ooty or a cab from Coimbatore.

Trip Duration – 3 days

Trip Budget – 4000 INR

Kotagiri

Another offbeat hill station that is located in The Nilgiris district is Kotagiri and is often a great alternative for people who are bored of going to Ooty.

This place is close to my heart because I visited here via local transportation and walked a great deal of the way back to Ooty, just to enjoy the gorgeous views that it had to offer.

Kotagiri offers a more local feel and isn’t as touristy so, you will really enjoy your time here.

There are a few waterfalls and viewpoints to visit here as well but the best would be the random valley views that you will stumble across on your way from Ooty.

Make sure that you check out the tea plantations, Kodanad viewpoint, and the Catherine waterfalls here.  

Best time to Visit – Throughout the year

Nearest Metro City – Bangalore (300 km)

How to Reach – You can take a bus or train to reach Coimbatore first and then reach Ooty. Once you have reached Ooty, you can take the local TRSTC bus or a sab to reach Kotagiri from Ooty.

Trip Duration – 3 days

Trip Budget – 3000 INR

Dandeli

One of the lesser-visited hill stations in South India, Dandeli lies in the state of Karnataka and is an amazing place to visit for a weekend getaway.

What I really love about Dandeli is that it has a wildlife sanctuary that is home to a few animals like elephants, black panthers, monkeys, etc., and a lot of bird and reptile species as well.

In Dandeli, you can relax and enjoy camping in the woods and can even indulge in a lot of activities. Here, I would simply sit beside the Kali river and enjoy hearing the gushing water and dip my feet in the clear and cool water.

Another amazing thing to do here is to indulge in activities like river rafting, water zorbing, kayaking, and so on.

So a trip to Dandeli can be an adventure that you never forget!

Best time to Visit – October to February

Nearest Metro City – Bangalore (465 km)

How to Reach – From Bangalore, you can take a train to Hubli and then a bus to reach Dandeli.

Trip Duration – 3 days

Trip Budget – 4000 INR

Munnar

Another popular hill station to visit in south India, Munnar also happens to be one of my favorite hill stations as it offers some gorgeous views along with peace and serenity.

Located in the Western Ghats mountain range of Kerala state, Munnar is surrounded by beautiful rolling hills that are covered with tea plantations and make you feel like you are in a different world.

In Munnar, you can spend time in the tea plantations or visit the numerous viewpoints or simply enjoy the beautiful sunsets that adorn the sky here every day.

You can also visit the famous Eravikulam National Park here which is home to the endangered mountain goat, Nilgiri Tahr, and offers several amazing trekking trails for adventure enthusiasts as well.

Best time to Visit – Throughout the year

Nearest Metro City – Bangalore (540 km)

How to Reach – From Bangalore, you get direct private buses to Munnar every week. Another option is to take a train from Bangalore to Kochi and then a local bus or cab to Munnar.

Trip Duration – 3 days

Trip Budget – 2500 INR

Darjeeling

I have been to Darjeeling twice now and each time, I have been pleasantly surprised by what this place has to offer.

One thing that absolutely no one can deny is that Darjeeling has beautiful tea plantations and viewpoints that will really leave you wanting more.

Add to that the famous Steam Engine toy train, Darjeeling Himalayan Railways, and you have a dreamy trip to enjoy.

One of my favorite memories of this place is getting up early morning to travel to the Tiger Hill viewpoint to watch the sunrise at Mount Kanchenjunga.

Yes, it happens to be freezing in the morning and you have to wear warm clothes along with gloves and a woolen cap to keep yourself warm.

But when the first rays of the sun hit the peak of Kanchenjunga and formed a golden reddish hue on the top, it felt like I was in paradise.

Best time to Visit – October to March

Nearest Metro City – Kolkata (615 km)

How to Reach – There are no direct buses or trains to reach Darjeeling from Kolkata. The only way you can reach is by first reaching Siliguri using via flight, train,, or bus and then taking a local bus, shared cab,, or a private cab to Darjeeling.

Trip Duration – 2 to 3 days

Trip Budget – 4000 INR to 5000 INR

Gangtok

Gangtok is the capital of Sikkim and is one of the best hill stations in India that is known for its clean and well-built mall road among a few other things.

And the modern cafés and bakeries that line the mall road make for the perfect place to chill and meet other travelers. But one of the best things about Gangtok is that it is home to scenic viewpoints and monasteries.

My favorite part about visiting Gangtok was the day trip to the Tsomgo Lake and Nathula pass from here where you can enjoy the snow-laden mountains and breathe in the clean, fresh air.

Apart from that, the Ranka Monastery and Rumtek monastery are good places to visit to learn more about the local culture and observe the lives of the monks living here.

Best time to Visit – Throughout the Year

Nearest Metro City – Kolkata (670 km)

How to Reach – There is no direct bus or train to reach Sikkim. However, you can take a flight from Kolkata to Bagdogra and then take a cab or local bus to reach Gangtok.

You can also reach Siliguri via bus or train, depending on your schedule and budget.

Trip Duration – 3 days

Trip Budget – 4000 INR

Pelling

A small town located at the foothills of Mount Khangchendzonga in Sikkim, I fell in love with Pelling the moment I landed here.

What I really loved about this place is that this hill station looks like a place straight out of a fairytale with its breathtaking views of Khangchendzonga mountain and other neighboring peaks.

The Pemayangste monastery is quite famous here that features several gorgeous wall paintings, sculptures, and even Guru Padsambhava’s gold-plated statue.

Another popular site, from the 17^th century, Rabdentse Palace ruins are still present here and offer a gorgeous view of the valley.

This town is perfect for nature lovers and offers several amazing activities like rock climbing, village tours, mountain biking, trekking trails, and so on.

And if you ever do visit this place, then make sure that you keep aside some time to visit the famous Singsong bridge nearby and the serene Khecheopalri lake, aka magical lake, too.

Best time to Visit – Throughout the year

Nearest Metro City – Kolkata (690 km)

How to Reach – From Kolkata, you will need to first reach New Jalpaiguri, Siliguri by bus or train. From Siliguri, you will find shared taxis and local buses plying to Geyzing or Pelling. From Geyzing, Pelling is just 10 km so you will find a private taxi there for 100-150 INR.

Trip Duration – 3 days

Trip Budget – 5000 INR

Lachung

Another of my favorite hill stations in India, Lachung is a mountain village in the northern Sikkim region and is absolutely gorgeous.

This hill station is surrounded by apple orchards and is known as the Switzerland of India due to its beauty and charm.

From here, you can observe snow-capped mountain peaks in the distance and can even go to a few beautiful waterfalls to make the most of your time here.

This mountain village is famous for its apricots, peaches, and apples and is a great place to relax while enjoying your natural surroundings.

Plus, if you are lucky, then you might be able to witness a snowfall here as well just the way I did when I visited Lachung!

Best time to Visit – March to July and October to December

Nearest Metro City – Kolkata (745 km)

How to Reach – You will need to first reach Gangtok from Kolkata via private bus and then you can take a private or shared package to Lachung.

Trip Duration – 2 days

Trip Budget – 2000 INR

Shillong

One of the best hill stations in India, especially the Northeast side, is Shillong in Meghalaya that offers amazing viewpoints, lakes, and trails for all the explorers out there.

Personally, I loved the climate and the people here, not to mention the delicious Khasi food that is Meghalaya’s patent cuisine to try out.

There is a lot to do in Shillong and around the town so there are fewer chances of you getting bored, especially not possible with the numerous cafés that are available throughout this small town.

The view from Laitlum canyon is a personal favorite of mine along with the Umiam lake. Trust me, the sunset view from the canyon and the boating at the Umiam lake are two must-do things in Shillong.

Best time to Visit – Throughout the Year

Nearest Major City – Guwahati (100 km)

How to Reach – From Guwahati, you can take a private cab, shared cab,, or a bus to reach Shillong as it is just 4-5 hours away. Alternatively, you can even rent a scooty to reach this hill station at an affordable cost.

Trip Duration – 2 to 3 days

Trip Budget – 4000 INR

Cherrapunji

Cherrapunji, also known as Sohra, is another amazing hill station that you cannot miss out on when visiting North East India.

One of the things that Cherrapunji is particularly famous for is the living root bridges that have been made out of rubber trees. And on the northeast side, you can enjoy the Mawkdok Dympep Valley views.

But you know what’s the best part about visiting Cherrapunji? You have so many gorgeous waterfalls to explore, especially during monsoon time!

Two of the most famous waterfalls that you can visit here are the Noh-Kalikai and Kynrem waterfalls. Also, if you love exploring caves then the Mawsmai caves, filled with stalagmites are definitely a good place to stop.

Best time to Visit – Throughout the Year

Nearest Major City – Guwahati (150 km)

How to Reach – From Guwahati, you can reach Shillong first. Then, from Shillong, you can either take a cab, local bus, or rent a scooty.

Trip Duration – 4 days

Trip Budget – 4000 INR

Ziro

One of the most gorgeous hill stations in North East India, Ziro in Arunachal Pradesh is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a lot, both in culture and scenery views.

Here, the local tribe of Apatanis runs the administration and follows eco-tourism along with eco-friendly ways for farming, construction, and so on.

What I really loved about Ziro is the rice fields here that lend a little color and charm to the place. As a result, the countryside here looks really colorful and there are several small trekking trails here as well for you to embark on.

If you are interested, then you can even learn about the local farming process and how the local rice beer is made. Trust me, all of it is quite interesting to learn and will offer you a new perspective on eco-friendly living.

And if you happen to plan a visit then try to coincide with the Ziro Festival of Music and you would definitely not regret your trip here!

Best time to Visit – March to November

Nearest Major City – Guwahati (445 km)

How to Reach – From Guwahati, you can take a train to Naharlagun and from there, you can take a shared cab to reach Ziro.

Trip Duration – 4 days

Trip Budget – 5000 INR

Araku Valley

Not many people might know about this hill station but Araku Valley is a popular hill station in Andhra Pradesh and is perfect for a long weekend getaway from Hyderabad.

What makes Araku valley such a charming place to visit is that the valley here is lush green and the road trip or the toy train journey to this hill station will make you fall in love with this place.

Not to forget that during the toy train ride to Araku Valley, you cross around 84 bridges and 58 tunnels!

Also, you can visit the local Tribal Museum where you can see the traditional Dhimsa dance and take a look at the traditional handicrafts produced here.

Since the valley lies in the Eastern Ghats mountain range and is surrounded by thick, lush green forests, you won’t be disappointed with the views.

Best time to Visit – Throughout the year

Nearest Metro City – Visakhapatnam (115 km)

How to Reach – From Visakhapatnam, aka Vizag, you can take the passenger train to reach Araku Valley or you can hire a private cab for the journey.

Trip Duration – 2 days

Trip Budget – 3000 INR

Panchgani

One of the most popular hill stations in Maharashtra, Panchgani is a short ride from Mumbai and makes for the perfect weekend getaway for anyone who loves nature and valley views.

What I loved the most about this hill station is the greenery that surrounds this hill station, particularly during the time of monsoon.

There are many amazing viewpoints to visit here like Sydney Point and Parsi Point that offers amazing views of Kamalgadh fort and Dhom Dham lake.

I especially liked the huge volcanic plateau here, known as Table Land, which tends to be secluded and is a good place for a walk and just enjoying a small picnic in the evenings.

Best time to Visit – July to November (Monsoon Season)

Nearest Metro City – Mumbai (242 km)

How to Reach – From Mumbai, you can drive in a private vehicle to Panchgani or take a private taxi. Another option is to get a bus from Mumbai or Pune to Panchgani.

Trip Duration – 2 days

Trip Budget – 3000 INR

Mahabaleshwar

Located at a short distance of 20 km from Panchgani hill station, Mahabaleshwar is one of my top hill stations to visit in Maharashtra. Why?

Well, because the lush greenery and the valley views are mesmerizing from this hill station, especially during the monsoon. And this place offers much more scenic viewpoints and places to visit than most other places in Maharashtra.

One of the places that I loved during my visit here is Elephant Point where the mountain top is naturally shaped like an elephant.

That’s not all, there are several other gorgeous points to visit as well like Arthur’s Seat viewpoint, Lingmala falls, Pratapgadh Fort, and so on. And each of these places during the monsoon looks a hundred times better than in any other season so, make sure you visit them all.

Best time to Visit – June to November (Monsoon Season)

Nearest Metro City – Mumbai (261 km)

How to Reach – From Mumbai, you can take a bus to Pune and then take a local cab or bus to Panchgani.

Trip Duration – 2 days

Trip Budget – 2000 INR