As the scorching sun starts to blaze and the mercury rises, there’s nothing quite like retreating to the serene and cool embrace of hill stations. With their lush greenery, refreshing breezes, and breathtaking views, hill stations offer the perfect respite from the sweltering heat of summer. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, adventure seeker, or simply looking to unwind in tranquility, India boasts a plethora of hill stations that cater to every traveler’s preferences. Here is a list of 10 captivating hill stations to visit this summer in India.
Hill stations to visit this summer: Top 10
1. Coorg : The Scotland of India
Situated amidst the verdant landscapes of Karnataka, Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is renowned for its mist-covered hills, sprawling coffee plantations, and cascading waterfalls. Cool temperatures and lush greenery make it an ideal hill stations to visit this summer. Explore the Abbey Falls, trek through the dense forests of Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, or savor a cup of freshly brewed coffee while soaking in the panoramic views of the Western Ghats.
| Best time | October to March. |
| Places to | Dubare Elephant Camp, Abbey Valley, Nagarhole National Park, Omkareshwar Temple, Chetali. |
| To reach | Rail or Air is preferred to reach Coorg. Nearest Mangalore International Airport and Mysore Railway Station. |
2. Gulmarg : A Paradise in the Himalayas
Tucked away in the heart of the Kashmir Valley, Gulmarg is a picturesque hill station renowned for its pristine beauty and snow-capped peaks. During summer, the meadows transform into a carpet of vibrant wildflowers, offering a surreal experience to visitors. Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in activities like trekking, golfing, and gondola rides amidst the breathtaking Himalayan landscapes that makes Gulmarg a topper in the list of hill stations to visit in India.
| Best time | April to June and November to January. |
| Places to | Gulmarg Sky Area, Baba Reshi Temple, Nagin Valley, Golf Course and Khilanmarg. |
| To reach | You can take Air or Train route. The nearest airport to Gulmarg is Srinagar. Nearest railway station is at Jammu. You need a car or You have to reach Gulmarg by bus. |
3. Shillong : The Abode of Clouds
Perched atop the East Khasi Hills in Meghalaya, Shillong exudes charm with its colonial architecture, tranquil lakes, and cascading waterfalls. Known as the “Scotland of the East,” it offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural vibrancy. Take a leisurely stroll along Ward’s Lake, explore the living root bridges of Cherrapunji, or soak in the panoramic views from Shillong Peak for an unforgettable summer escapade.
| Best time | March to June. |
| Places to | Elephant Falls, Shillong Peak, Wards Lake, Police Bazar, Umiam Lake and Sweet Falls |
| To reach | You can reach Shillong by air and rail. The nearest airport to Shillong is Umroi, about 25 km away. Railway Station Guwahati. |
4. Gangtok : Where Tranquility Meets Adventure
Embraced by the majestic Himalayas, Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, beckons travelers with its serene monasteries, scenic vistas, and vibrant culture. Escape the summer heat by exploring attractions like Rumtek Monastery, Tsomgo Lake, and Nathula Pass. Adventure seekers can embark on thrilling treks, river rafting expeditions, and cable car rides amidst the breathtaking landscapes of this Himalayan gem that makes Gangtok a top choice of the list of hill stations to visit this year.
| Best time | September to June. |
| Places to | Rumtek Math, Nathula Pass, Somgo Lake, Hanuman Tok, Kanchenjunga |
| To reach | You can reach Gangtok by Air or Rail. Nearest airport is Bagdogra and Jalpaiguri is the nearest railway station. |
5. Malana : Mystique in the Parvati Valley
Tucked away in the Parvati Valley of Himachal Pradesh, Malana is a quaint village renowned for its distinct culture, lush greenery, and panoramic vistas. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and pristine forests, it offers a tranquil retreat for nature lovers and solitude seekers. Explore the ancient village, interact with the friendly locals, or embark on scenic treks to nearby villages for an offbeat summer adventure.
| Best time | September to June. |
| Places to | Jamadagni Temple, Renuka Devi Temple, Kheerganga, Kasol, Tosh and Manikaran. |
| To reach | You can be reach by Air, Rail or Road. The nearest airport Kullu Manali is about 15 km away. Where Malana Halt is the nearest railway station. |
Also Read: Dhanyakuria – The village of Castles in West Bengal
6. Chitkul : The Last Village near the Indo-Tibetan Border
Chitkul is located in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh. Chitkul is a hidden gem nestled along the banks of the Baspa River. With its alpine meadows, rustic charm, and stunning views of the Himalayas, it offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of this remote village, embark on scenic hikes, or simply unwind amidst the pristine natural beauty of the Himalayas. Chitkul is one of the best hill stations to visit in India this year.
| Best time | April – June. |
| Places to | India’s last village. Mathi Temple, Srotswini River, Hydro Flour Mill, Buddhist Temple, Apple Orchard and Chitkul Fort. |
| To reach | You can reach Chitkul via Delhi-Chandigarh-Shimla-Karcham. |
7. McLeodganj : Tranquility Amidst the Dhauladhar Range
Perched amidst the Dhauladhar Range in Himachal Pradesh, McLeodganj is a spiritual haven known for its Tibetan culture, monasteries, and scenic beauty. Escape the summer heat by exploring attractions like the Namgyal Monastery, Bhagsu Waterfall, and Triund Trek in McLeodganj. Indulge in soulful meditation sessions, savor delicious Tibetan cuisine, or embark on adventurous treks amidst the majestic Himalayan landscapes.
| Best time | May-June. |
| Places to | Briund, Bhagsu Falls, Bhagunath Temple, Namgyal Mutt, Kangra Fort. |
| To reach | You can go by Car, Bus, Train or Plane. Nearest airport is Khagal. Railway Station Amb Andaura. Besides Delhi-Sopipat by car, Panipat-Karnal-Ambala-Rupnagar-Anandpur Sahib and Nangal can be reached. |
8. Almora : Serenity in the Kumaon Hills
In the picturesque Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, Almora captivates travelers with its colonial architecture, panoramic views and tranquil ambiance. Escape the summer heat by exploring attractions like Kasar Devi Temple, Bright End Corner, and Zero Point. Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of pine-clad mountains, lush valleys, and cascading waterfalls for a rejuvenating summer retreat.
| Best time | April to July. |
| Places to | Govinda Vallabh Museum, Chitai Golu Deity Temple, Kalimath in Almora and Kasar Devi Temple. |
| To reach | You can reach Almora by car, bus, train or flight. Pantnagar Airport is nearest to Almora. Nearest railway station is Kathgodam. You can reach Almora by road from Delhi-Moradabad-Rudrapur-Haldwani-Ranikhet. |
9. Mount Abu : Rajasthan’s Only Hill Station
Situated amidst the Aravalli Range in Rajasthan, Mount Abu offers a refreshing escape from the desert heat with its cool climate, lush greenery, and scenic landscapes. Explore attractions like Dilwara Temples, Nakki Lake, and Guru Shikhar, the highest point in Rajasthan. Indulge in boating, trekking, or simply relish the serene ambiance of this tranquil hill station amidst the desert oasis.
| Best time | April to June. |
| Places to | Dilwara Jain Temple, Sunset Point, Achaleshwar Mahadev Temple, Mount Abu Bazar and Wildlife Sanctuary. |
| To reach | Can travel by car, bus or train. You can also reach Mount Abu by air. Duboc Airport is the closest. Abu Road is the nearest railway station. You can reach Mount Abu via Delhi-Gurugram-Pushkar-Alwar-Ajmer. |
10. Gaul : An Offbeat Gem in Uttarakhand
Tucked away in the picturesque Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, Gaul is a hidden gem renowned for its serene ambiance, alpine meadows, and breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Escape the summer heat by exploring attractions like Gaul Devi Temple, Roopkund Lake, and Valley of Flowers National Park. Immerse yourself in the pristine natural beauty of this offbeat destination for a memorable summer getaway.
| Best time | April to June and December to January. |
| Places to | Nainital Lake, Naina Peak, Kanchi Dham, Naina Devi Temple and Eco Kew Gardens. |
| To reach | Delhi to Nainital is only 323 km. You can easily reach by Car, Bus or Train. Kathgodam is the nearest railway station here. Nainital can be reached via Delhi from all other states of India. |
In conclusion, India offers a myriad of enchanting hill stations that promise a refreshing escape from the summer heat. Whether you seek adventure, tranquility, or cultural immersion, this list, of 10 hill stations to visit, cater to every traveler’s preferences, beckoning you to embark on an unforgettable summer escapade amidst nature’s splendor. So pack your bags, escape the heat, and embark on a journey to these breathtaking destinations to create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.