Come summer and we can’t stop thinking about the mountains. They cool down the body and unwind the soul and are apt for any season, summer being travelers’ favorite time.
Today, these hill stations have become popular destinations among travelers and tourists from all over the country and from across the world. If you too wish to plan your own trip to the hills, here are the 10 best hill stations in India that are famous for their tranquility, landscapes, and easy going lifestyle:
10 Famous Hill Stations In India To Visit In 2023
1. Darjeeling, West Bengal – Tea Plantation Hill Station
Darjeeling is India’s most beautiful hill station. Darjeeling is also known as the Queen of Indian Hills. As soon as you step into Darjeeling, you can feel a certain warmth in the air that makes you feel refreshed and peaceful. Lush green tea plantations and views of the Himalayas add to the overall ambiance. In short, this place is a paradise for nature lovers and hikers.
2. Srinagar
Jammu and Kashmir’s summer capital, Srinagar, is home to relaxing houseboats and beautiful lakes. To the layman, the city of Srinagar is also known as the Land of Lakes and Gardens, thanks to Srinagar’s many lakes and gardens. If you also like golf, Srinagar has a lot of golf courses so this is the place for you.
3. Nainital, Uttarakhand – Hill Station of Lakes
Nainital, a small town in the Kumaon Mountains of Uttarakhand, is known as the Lake District of India. This place is also loved by newlyweds as it is a common sight for honeymooners in this heavenly destination. Nainital is also great for adventure lovers as it hosts many adventure sports such as kayaking, parasailing and rock climbing.
4. Manali, Himachal Pradesh – Valley of the Gods
There is no place like Manali that offers both adventure and serenity. Located in the Kullu Valley of Himachal Pradesh, Manali caters to all types of travelers, including individuals, couples and groups. Besides the Solang Valley, Tibetan Monasteries and Rohtang Pass, Manali is also known for its English cafes, the best of which is in Old Manali.
5. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand – Queen of Hill Stations
The high mountains of the Himalayas are striking in the north, while the south offers views of the Doon Valley. Located 35 km from Dehradun, the capital of Uttarakhand, it is specially designed for tourists. The most popular spot here is Lal Tibah, the highest point in Mussoorie.
6. Shimla
The city of Shimla in Himachal Pradesh is famous for its hill station. Known as one of India’s most famous summer destinations, Shimla is a favorite hill station for almost everyone. Shimla is a well-connected hill station known as Mall Road. For laymen, Shimla was declared the summer capital of India during British rule. That’s probably why Shimla still has its British flair.
7. Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir
This beauty is a pure work of nature, and if you love to travel, you must be here once in your lifetime. If you also like adventure sports, this great destination is for you, as snowboarding and skiing are known to be the main tourist activities in the area. Gulmarg has many tourist attractions.
8. Ooty
Brits call it Snooty Ooty, but Ooty is a feast for the eyes. There are terraced botanical gardens, thatched churches, enclosed flower gardens, pine trees, and beautiful cottages. Ooty is always a little foggy which adds to its beauty. Tranquility and natural beauty are the highlights of this place.
9. Munnar
This place is also popular for its tea plantations. Munnar has wildlife, forests, misty hills and winding trails. Here you can also trek to Anamdi, South India’s highest peak, or opt for rock climbing under expert guidance.
10. Gangtok, Sikkim
Sikkim’s beautiful capital, Gangtok needs no introduction. It has the perfect city life mixed with the quaint atmosphere of a hill station.
