29 Best Hill Stations in India to Visit

Most of the states of North India are hot, dry and humid in the summer season like Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh and therefore the people of this part of North India prefer to visit in the winter season.
It is because of the shortfall in the number of tourists due to cold weather except for some snowfall lovers.
There are numerous benefits of the winter season to the tourists as they save themselves from the hot and humid weather, and have multiple choices to select the tour Destination at affordable prices of hotels, restaurants, shopping centres and transportation.
In this post, we explored the best hill stations in North India which will add to your memories forever whether you are going solo, with family, friends, or for a honeymoon.
These tourist destinations can be made affordable even in the peak seasons by pre-long bookings of hotels and honeymoon packages offered by various travel agencies and others.
29 Best Hill Stations in India to Visit for couples
Though we can not identify any one place for a honeymoon in North India the following places are most favourable for a honeymoon.
Under this favourable time for the honeymooners, the following destinations are supposed to be affordable to come close to their better half in the beauty of hills and lush green natural environment well equipped with the fragrance of love and loneliness.
1. Almora in Uttarakhand
Almora is one of the biggest cities in the Almora district with a population of nearly 1.06 thousand. This city is well-maintained by the state government and other concerned authorities.
This town has a municipal board and cantonment area and is part of the Indian state of Uttarakhand. This town is situated in the north part of the Kumaon Hills of the Himalayas and is about 365 km. away from Delhi.
The weather of Almora remains pleasant and moderate all over the year and hence lures tourists to visit here from all parts of the world. King Kalyan Chand established this town and named it the Bhilmora.
This city is a huge number of varieties of plants and is very rich in lush green grounds and a nature-friendly climate. The area of Almora from the outer side has famous wildlife which is full of natural environments with the presence of Leopard, Langur, Goral, Black Bear, Kakar, and more.
The people of Almora are well educated because of the very famous universities and other educational institutions like Soban Singh Jeena University, Uttarakhand Residential University and Kamoun University and also have a large number of schools for all levels and kinds of education and training.
Places of attraction in Almora:
How to reach Almora
Places of attraction in Chail:
How to reach Chail?
Places of attraction in Spiti Valley:
How to reach Spiti
Places of attraction in Kufri:
How to reach Kufri
5.Dhanaulti in Uttarakhand
Places to visit in Dhanaulti:
- Dhanaulti Adventure Park
- Dhanaulti Eco Park
- Surkanda Devi Temple
- Adventure sports in and around it
- Kanatal
- The Dam and Lake
- Aaloo Khet
- Kaudia Forest
- Chamba
- New Tehri
- Deogarh Fort
- Potato Farm
- Dashavatar Temple
- Apple Orchard Resort
- Camp Thangdhar
How to reach Dhanaulti
6. Ranikhet in Uttarakhand
Places of attraction in Ranikhet:
How to reach Ranikhet
7. Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh
Places to visit in Dharamshala:
How to reach Dharamshala
8. Chamba in Himachal Pradesh
The Chamba appears to be an ancient city because the buildings are constructed with traditional architecture and local materials which also make this city unique and different from other parts of India.
The heritage monuments and temples are situated in the old town on the lower side of Shah Madar Hill. This city is known for its natural beauty, lakes, streams, and temples. The main languages spoken in Chamba are English and Hindi.
Places to visit in Chamba:
How to reach Chamba
9. Kullu and Manali in Himachal Pradesh
Whereas Manali is located in the River Beas Valley where we can even touch the clouds on its hilltop. In Manali, you will find raw beauty with sonority which is the dream of all tourists.
This is the best destination for a backpacking centre and honeymoon destination. This place is well equipped with Waterfalls, Trekking Tails, Quaint Villages, Religious Places, Apple Orchards, Museums, Hip Cafes, and Great Himalayan National Park.
It is a UNESCO world heritage site that consists of a variety of wildlife. Tracking and outdoor camping are the most popular activities here.
Places of attraction in Kullu:
1. Bijli Mahadev Temple
2. Pondok Dam
3. Parvati Valley
4. Friendship Peak
5. Hanoi Mata Temple
6. Naggar
7. Bhuntar
8. Jagannath Devi Temple
9. Chandrakani Park
10. Bhrigu Lake
Place of attraction in Manali:
- Hidimba Temple
- Nehru Kund
- Arjun Gufa
- Vasihst Hot Water Springs and Temples
- Museum of Hima8chal Culture and Folk Art
- Hampta Pass
- Raghunath Temple
- Rahala Falls
The ideal time to visit Kullu and Manali: is March to June. December to February. This time is most desirable for enjoying water sports and snow.
How to reach Kullu and Manali
Airport near Manali: Kullu Manali Airport is about 50 kilometres away from Manali Town.
Railway Station near Manali: Joginder Nagar Railway Station is connected with almost all the big cities of the country.
The ideal time to visit Kullu and Manali: is March to June in summer and October to February in winter.
10. Nainital in Uttar Pradesh
It is believed that Nainital Lake is the creation of three sages namely Pulaha, Atri, and Pulastya who was thirsty and could not find water anywhere in Nainital. To overcome this problem, they dug a large hole till it was filled with water.
The main attractions of Nainital are:
How to reach Nainital
11. Shimla in Himachal Pradesh
The main attraction in Shimla:
How to reach Shimla
12. Dalhousie in Himachal Pradesh
Dalhousie is one of the most famous hill stations in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh and is located about 1,970 meters high above sea level. Its total population is about 7,050 people and has the 25th rank in Himachal Place.
This place was established by the British Governor-General In India named Dalhousie for summer retreats and therefore this hill station was known as Dalhousie.
This is a hot and humid climate in summer whereas in winter it is cold to mild. Due to its hilly beauty, it attracted not only tourists but also filmmakers who directed the films like Field Lootera, The Last Leaf, and much more.
The beauty of Dalhousie also attracted the big personalities of India like Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose who was forced to stay there for many months in the year 1937.
There are two places famous for his name – Subhash Baoli and Subhash Chowk. This is full of waterfalls, rivers flowing from the mountains, huge forests, cafes, markets, and Mall Road which attract tourists from all around the world.
Places to visit in Dalhousie:
How to reach Dalhousie
13. Badrinath in Uttarakhand
Places to visit in Badrinath:
How to reach Badrinath
14. Auli in Uttarakhand
Places of attraction in Auli:
- Trishul Peak
- Hanuman Ghat
- Nanda Devi National Park
- Artificial Lake
- Chenab Lake
- Gurso Bugyal
- Chattarkund
- Vasundhara Falls
- Gopeshwar
- Malari
- Hemkund Sahib
- Joshimath
- Auli Ropeway
- Auli Ski Resort
- Saildhar Tapowan
- Rudraprayag
- Nandaprayag
- Narsingh Temple
How to reach Auli
15. Rishikesh in Uttarakhand
Rishikesh the word represents the locks or heir of a sage and is famous for its spiritual values. This town is a part of Dehradun in Uttarakhand. Rishikesh is about 25 km. from Jolly Grant Airport Dehradun and about 90 km. from Mussoorie. This place is the hub of Yoga, Pilgrimage, Adventure, and Sports.
Places to visit in Rishikesh are:
- Beatles Ashram
- Tara Manzil Temple
- Swarg Ashram
- Rishikesh Main Market
- Bhootnath Temple
- Iscon Temple
- Rishikund
- Marine Drive
- Astha Path
- Chandreshwar Mahadev Temple
How to reach Rishikesh
16. Kasauli in Himachal Pradesh
Kasauli is one of the smallest hill stations in Himachal Pradesh, North India, and is situated at about 1930 meters high sea level. It is situated in the Solan district and the favourite destination for the British who established the main cantonment area in this zone in the year 1842.
Places to visit in Kasauli:
How to reach Kasauli
17. Mussoorie in Uttarakhand
It is heaven for travellers and honeymooners. On one side stunning views of Dehradun and on the other side snow-capped Himalayan peaks. This is a muse of romanticism, a loner’s wonderland and a nature lover’s heaven.
This place is also popular with trekkers, It also has some prestigious educational institutes, Stately Hostels, Cosy Cafe, Old Taverns, Bustling Markets, Estates, Churches, Himalayan Views and Mall Road.
The main places of attraction in Mussoorie are:
How to reach Mussoorie
18. Shoja in Himachal Pradesh
Places of Attraction near Shoja:
- Raghupur Fort
- Tirthan Valley
- Jalori Pass
- Waterfall Point
- Serolsar Lake
- Dense Forests
How to reach Shoja
Places to visit in Una:
How to reach Una
20. Solan in Himachal Pradesh
Places to visit in Solan:
How to reach Solan
21. Chamba in Himachal Pradesh
It is said that in the ancient time of around 500 A.D., the Rajput ruler Maru came from northwest India to this place. The name Chamba originated from a Hindu devout Champavati.
When India became independent in August 1947 the Chamba was merged as a part of India with some other princedoms. It is bordered by Jammu & Kasmir, Ladakh, Lahaul, Kangra, and the Pathankot district.
The Chamba appears to be an ancient city because the buildings are constructed with traditional architecture and local materials which also make this city unique and different from other parts of India.
The heritage monuments and temples are situated in the old town on the lower side of Shah Madar Hill. This city is known for its natural beauty, lakes, streams, and temples. The main languages spoken in Chamba are English and Hindi.
Places to visit in Chamba:
How to reach Chamba
22. Kangra in Himachal Pradesh
It is a very small city that consists of a population of about 9,500 and has 17th rank in Himachal Pradesh. This city has a famous historical identity and was one of the wealthiest cities in the state.
The Vajreshwari Devi temple was one of the richest and oldest temples in this zone of India which was destroyed and looted several times along with a fort and town.
It is also said that Mahmud of Ghazni looted temples, forts and cities in this region in the year 1009 but whether the fort of Kangra was looted or not is not confirmed to date.
Mainly this place is famous for the Vajreshwari Devi temple which a large number of tourists and devotees visit all around to year.
This valley is also known for the ancient famous Masrur temple which is supposed to get a place on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites because of its ancient heritage and beauty.
Places to visit in Kangra:
How to reach Kangra
23. Hamirpur in Himachal Pradesh
The main source of livelihood for the people of this place is agriculture and animal husbandry. The historical beliefs about this town are that it was connected with the Katoch dynasty which had its domination at this place in the old days.
During the Mahabharata time, Hamirpur was part of the old Jalandhar-Trigarta empire which is proved by the existence of Puranas and Panini’s Ashtadhyai evident in Mahabharata.
The literacy rate of this town is very high and is known for its Festivals and Educational Institutions. It is a very small town with a total population of about 17,600 people and got 12th position in Himachal Pradesh.
Like many other states, the language of this town is Hindi and English. The Awah Devi peak is the highest point of this place which is about 1252 meters. This is the place where heavy rain falls from June to September.
This town is also famous for its political activeness and currently influenced by the Bharatiya Janta Party.
In particular, this place is not as hilly and cloudy as other parts of Himachal Pradesh but it is surrounded by mountains and hills which is one of the points of attraction for tourists.
Places to visit in Hamirpur:
How to reach Hamirpur
24. Narkanda in Himachal Pradesh
Places to visit Narkanda
- Kacheri
- Hatu Peak
- Jallori Pall
- Kotgarh and Thanedhar
- Tannu Jubbar Lake
- Mahamaya Temple
- Stokes Farm
- City Shopping Center
How to reach Narkanda
25. Patnitop in Jammu and Kashmir
Places of attraction in Patnitop:
- Naag Mandir
- Nathatop
- Kud Park
- Billoo Ki Powri
- Shiva Ghar
- Madhatop
- Gaurikund
- Sudh Mahadev Mandir
- Udhampur
- Shivgarh
How to reach Patnitop
26. Bhimtal in Uttarakhand
Places of attraction in Bhimtal:
- Hidimba Parvat
- Nal Damyanti Tal
- Garg Parvat
- Bhimtal Aquarium
- Bhimtal Lake
- Bhimeshwar Mahadev Temple
- Butterfly Research Centre
- Karkotaka temple
- Victoria Dam
- Nal Damyanti Tal
- Pines Old Cemetery
- Naukuchiatal
How to reach Bhimtal
27. Binsar in Uttarakhand
This town is located about 34 km. from Almora city in Uttarakhand state of the northern part of India.
This is one of the most scenic locations in the Kumaon hills located at a height of about 2,425 meters and is the sleepy and picturesque hamlet.
It gives very attractive views of the Himalayan peaks like Trishul, Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, Shivling and Panchachuli.
It is believed that the name of this city was derived from the holy Hindu temple Bineshwar Mahadev Temple supposed to be dedicated to God Mahadeva or Lord Shiva.
This place is full of a variety of wildlife and consists of a large number of Mountain goats, leopards, Barking deer, wild boars, porcupines, Himalayan palm civets and macaques.
This place is also the home of birds, especially in the spring season. Some varieties of birds like jays, tits, sibias, thrushes, nuthatches, and warblers are found all around the year.
This is attached to the Jhandi hills and is a famous place for nature lovers. Uttarakhand Tourism is continuously keeping an eye on this place for tourism development to attract tourists at this place and promote tourism in Uttarakhand.
Places of attraction in Binsar:
- Gananath Temple
- Mahadev Temple
- Binsar Hill
- Khali Estate
- Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary
- Jalna
- Shiva Temple
- Zero Point
- Budden Estate
- Gairar Gana Golu
- Sunset Point
- Koshi River
- Lama meditation centre at Kaspar
How to reach Binsar
28. Gulmarg in Jammu and Kashmir
Places of attraction in Gulmarg:
- Biosphere Reserve
- Alpather Lake
- Gondola
- Shiva Temple
- Childer’s Part
- Shrine of Baba Reshi
- Saint Mary’s Church
- Adventure Sports
- Gulmarg Golf Course
- Gulmarg Winter Music and
- Adventure Festival
- Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve
- Strawberry Valley
- Ferozepur Nallah
How to reach Gulmarg
29. Shillong in Meghalaya
Its name was the origin of the act of being born of a local deity from the virgin mother known as Shyllong. This city is located about an elevation of 1,500 meters above sea level.
This is one of the top destinations for highly literate people in this part of India. This is the top hill station and has the natural beauty of the lush green ground area with high trees and mountains which are covered with ice.
In the winter season, its mountains touch the clouds and therefore a large number of tourists visit Shillong all around the year. It’s a very favourite tourist destination because of its scenic beauty, eye-catching sight-seeing places and the pleasant weather.
Places to visit in Shillong:
How to reach Shillong
FAQ on 29 Best Hill Stations in India to Visit
1. Which are the best hill stations to visit in India?
Some top hill stations include Shimla, Manali, Mussoorie, Nainital, Gulmarg, Darjeeling, Gangtok, Ooty, Munnar, Coorg, Mount Abu, Leh-Ladakh, Tawang, Kodaikanal, and Auli.
2. Which hill station in India is the most popular for families?
Manali, Shimla, Mussoorie, and Nainital are favourites among families due to easy accessibility, good hotels, and kid-friendly attractions.
3. What are the top romantic hill stations in India for couples?
Munnar, Ooty, Coorg, Mussoorie, Gulmarg, Kasauli, and Kodaikanal are perfect for honeymooners and romantic getaways.
4. Which hill station offers the best snowfall experience?
Visit Gulmarg, Auli, Manali, Kashmir Valley (Pahalgam & Sonmarg), and Shimla (Kufri) in winter for magical snowfall.
5. Which hill station is ideal for adventure lovers?
Manali, Leh-Ladakh, Rishikesh, Auli, and Gangtok offer trekking, skiing, paragliding, rafting, and biking adventures.
6. What is the best hill station in South India?
Top picks include Munnar, Ooty, Kodaikanal, Coorg, Wayanad, and Coonoor.
7. Which hill station is best for summer vacations?
Shimla, Manali, Nainital, Darjeeling, Gangtok, Mount Abu, and Mahabaleshwar are perfect for escaping the summer heat.
8. Which hill stations are perfect for peaceful, offbeat trips?
Try Tawang, Ziro, Lansdowne, Kalimpong, Spiti Valley, Kausani, Aizawl, and Yercaud.
9. What are the best hill stations for budget travellers?
Dharamshala, McLeodganj, Mussoorie, Nainital, and Yelagiri are affordable choices with budget stays and food.
10. Which hill station is best for honeymooners seeking luxury?
Munnar, Coorg, Gulmarg, Mussoorie, and Darjeeling offer premium resorts, romantic stays, and scenic experiences.
11. Which are the top hill stations to visit with kids?
Shimla, Ooty, Nainital, Mussoorie, and Mount Abu offer fun activities like boating, toy trains, gardens, and parks.
12. Which hill station has the best tea gardens?
Darjeeling, Munnar, Coonoor, and Assam’s Dibrugarh highlands are known for lush tea estates.
13. Where can I find the best mountain views in India?
For stunning Himalayan views, visit Gangtok (Kanchenjunga), Darjeeling (Tiger Hill), Auli (Nanda Devi), and Ladakh (Himalayas & Karakoram).
14. Which hill station is best for trekking lovers?
Manali, Kasol, Darjeeling, Gangtok, Spiti, and Uttarakhand (Kedarkantha, Valley of Flowers, Nag Tibba) are top trekking hubs.
15. Which hill station is famous for toy train rides?
Shimla (Kalka–Shimla Railway), Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, and Ooty (Nilgiri Mountain Railway) offer scenic toy train journeys.
16. What are the most scenic hill stations in North India?
Gulmarg, Sonmarg, Manali, Auli, Mussoorie, Nainital, and Kausani are top scenic destinations.
17. Which hill stations are great for photography?
Spiti, Gulmarg, Darjeeling, Munnar, Auli, and Ziro offer breathtaking landscapes, lakes, and valleys.
18. Which hill stations are safest for solo travellers?
McLeodganj, Dharamshala, Rishikesh, Gangtok, Aizawl, and Mount Abu are safe and easy to explore solo.
19. Which hill station has the best snowfall for skiing?
Auli and Gulmarg are India’s top skiing destinations with world-class slopes.
20. Which hill stations are great for wildlife lovers?
Wayanad, Coorg, Munnar, Kalimpong, and Kanha–Bandhavgarh highlands offer forest stays and wildlife sightings.
21. Which hill stations are close to Delhi?
Mussoorie, Nainital, Lansdowne, Kasauli, Shimla, and Ranikhet are within easy reach.
22. Which hill stations near Mumbai are popular?
Mahabaleshwar, Lonavala, Matheran, and Panchgani.
23. Which hill stations in India have lakes?
Nainital, Bhimtal, Ooty, Kodaikanal, Sattal, Dal Lake (Srinagar), and Pangong Lake (Ladakh) are stunning lake destinations.
24. Which hill stations offer the best monsoon experience?
Mahabaleshwar, Lonavala, Munnar, Wayanad, and Coorg look spectacular in the rains.
25. Which hill station is best for snow in December?
Auli, Gulmarg, Manali, and parts of Shimla receive heavy December snow.
26. Which hill station has cable car or ropeway rides?
Gulmarg Gondola, Mussoorie ropeway, Gangtok ropeway, and Auli cable car are popular.
27. Which are the coldest hill stations in India?
Drass (Ladakh), Spiti Valley, Gulmarg, Auli, and Tawang are among the coldest.
28. Which hill stations offer spiritual experiences?
Dharamshala, Rishikesh, Gangotri–Yamunotri region, Tawang, and Mount Abu have strong spiritual vibes.
29. What are the top luxury hill stations in India?
Gulmarg, Mussoorie, Munnar, Coorg, Darjeeling, and Shimla offer premium hotels, spas & fine dining.

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