As there are picturesque top hill stations in India, India is a favourite tourist spot. For nature lovers, it is a perfect tourist destination. The misty, mystical and serene hill stations to visit in India are an ideal holiday option. Most of the hill stations or best hill resorts in India are located at altitudes from 600 meters above sea level to 3500 meters above sea level. These hill stations are popular with tourists from both India and abroad and offer a relaxing and healthy break from the city’s heat and dust. All hill stations in India, have different hotels and resorts to cater for accommodation requirements to make a luxury trip for tourists.

Best hill resorts in India offer world-class accommodations and invite travellers to enjoy a relaxing holiday at reasonable rates. These hill stations serve as travel guides and offer peace and serenity to the world. In these amazing hill stations in India, go mountaineering, camping, trekking, and paragliding and have a holiday of your lifetime.

List of Tourist Hill Stations In India To Visit:

1. Leh:

Leh, the headquarters of the Ladakh region in Kashmir, is the highest hill station in India, located at an altitude of 3505 meters between the Himalayan and Karakoram mountain ranges. It is known for its barren beauty, including Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace, Namgyal Hill, and several Buddhist monasteries. Known as one of the best hill stations in North India, Leh is a haven for bikers who like to travel mountain passes at high altitudes.


Image Source: tripadvisor.in

  • Best Time To Visit: April to Mid-May, Mid-September to Mid-October every year
  • Peak Season: June to August
  • Ideal Trip Duration: 2 days
  • Where to Stay: Leh has many mid- ranged and cheap accommodations that can suit all types of tourists
  • State: Jammu and Kashmir
  • District: Leh
  • Max Weather: In Leh, winters are very cold and heavy snowfall is common, making visiting and tourism challenging in very harsh weather. The level of mercury is below 0 ° C. Summer is the best time for sightseeing in Leh. Leh’s summer season temperature rise is up to 33 ° C. Monsoon is irregular, and at any time there may be rainfall.

2. Shillong:

Considered as one of the prettiest hill stations in the northeastern part of India, Shillong is the capital city of Meghalaya. Shillong is one of the hill stations in India with an airport and is well known among hill stations in northeast India. Top Tourist Attractions in Shillong are Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians, Mawjymbuin Caves, All Saints Church, Lady Hydari Park, Umiam, Police Bazaar, Capt Williamson Sangma State Museum, Anthropological Museum, Shillong Peak, etc.


  • Best Time to Visit: September to May
  • Peak Season: During the summer, there is a lot of tourist exodus to Shillong, and you have to book your rooms, and flight/train tickets as this is the peak season.
  • Ideal Trip Duration: 2 full days
  • Where to Stay: One can find good economy hotels to stay in Shillong
  • State: Meghalaya
  • District: East Khasi Hills
  • Max Weather: Overall, summers are mild and an excellent time to plan a trip with temperatures ranging from a maximum of 24 ° C to a minimum of 15 ° C in Shillong. Winter starts setting in after November, and the weather can be quite cold with the minimum temperature going as low as 2 ° C.

3. Shimla:

Shimla is among the top hill stations in India for honeymoon. It has well-developed facilities, easy accessibility and numerous attractions, which make it one of Himachal tour packages ‘ top attractions. Kali Bari Temple, Annandale and Kalka-Shimla Railway are among the places that must be included in your Shimla tour packages. It remains an ideal spot for most adventure sports as well as being the ultimate summer retreat. Tourists can go to the Kullu Valley for the various treks or indulge in Pabbar River trout fishing.


Image Source: themounttravel.com
  • Best Time to Visit: October to May
  • Peak Season: Summer season is Shimla’s peak season. This is because the weather stays pleasant during the season
  • Ideal Trip Duration: 3 days
  • Where to Stay: Hotels, resorts and homestays are available in Shimla
  • State: Himachal Pradesh
  • District: Shimla
  • Max Weather: The weather temperature of Shimla includes summer at a maximum temperature of 28 ° C and a minimum temperature of 14 ° C, and winter at a maximum temperature of 10 ° C and a minimum temperature of minus 2 ° C.

4. Kodaikanal:

One of Tamil Nadu’s most beautiful hill stations, Kodaikanal is located in Southern India’s Palani hill range, one of the top hill stations in South India. It is located at an altitude of 7,200 square feet above sea level and offers a picturesque view of the Western Ghats. It includes enchanting waterfalls, beautiful lakes, and many other attractions. There are several tourist attractions in Kodaikanal such as Kodai Lake, Bryant Park, Coaker’s Walk, Bear Shola Falls, Silver Cascade, Pillar Rocks, etc. The hills, especially from the Coaker’s Walk, offer beautiful views all around.


  • Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Kodaikanal during the summer is from April to June. Monsoon offers different experiences from September to October as well
  • Peak Season: March to May
  • Ideal Trip Duration: 1 to 2 days
  • Where to Stay: Kodaikanal Tours provides tourists with excellent accommodation facilities
  • State: Tamil Nadu
  • District: Dindigul
  • Max Weather: The Kodaikanal weather has a maximum summer temperature of around 22 ° C, and a minimum of 13 ° C. Winter is at 17 ° C and at least 6 ° C.

5. Mcleodganj:

This hill station is always among the top 10 hill stations in India. At an average altitude of 2082 m, McLeodGanj is surrounded by the Dhauladhar ranges. McLeodganj is known for its Tibetan institutions, monasteries of Buddhism, culture, art, and crafts. McLeodganj, along with Buddhist monasteries such as Namgyal Monastery, Tsuglagkhang, and Tsechokling Gompa, offers sightseeing attractions such as Dharamkot, Bhagsu, Triund, Dal Lake, Gaggal, Lower Dharamshala, etc. McLeodganj is also a base camp for various trekking expeditions covering the ranges of Kangra and Chamba Valleys and Dhauladhar.


Image Source: trawell.in
  • Best Time To Visit: Between October and February, i.e., the winter season and the summer season between March and June, is the best time to visit McleodGanj.
  • Peak Season: March to April, September to November
  • Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
  • Where to Stay: In the form of private hotels and tourist lodges, McLeod Ganj has many accommodation options.
  • State: Himachal Pradesh
  • District: Kangra
  • Weather: Summer: Maximum temperature reaches 30°C and the minimum may be 16°C. Winter: Maximum temperature is usually 16°C and the minimum could be as low as – 5 °C.

6. Kasauli:

Kasauli is one of the cheapest hill stations in India and also the best on the list of hill stations in India. This small hill station appears to be living in the 19th century time warp. Kasauli narrow roads (1951 m) slant up and down the hillside and offer some spectacular views. The Monkey Point, Balak Nath Temple, Shirdi Sai Baba Temple, Christ, and Baptist Church and Lawrence School are places to visit in Kasauli.


Image Source: tusktravel.com
  • Best Time To Visit: The best time to visit the town is April through June, then September through November again.
  • Peak Season: June to August are the busiest and most crowded months.
  • Ideal Trip Duration: 2 days
  • Where to Stay: Kasauli is known for its best accommodation facilities and most of them are located on Kasauli Hill which offers picturesque views of the Himalayas & Dhauladhars in the midst of pine trees.
  • State: Himachal Pradesh
  • District: Solan
  • Max Weather: Almost throughout the year, Kasauli enjoys a moderate climate. From March to June, summer continues, and temperatures range from 14 ° C to 28 ° C. The days are warm during the summer and the nights are cold.

7. Kotagiri:

It is among the coldest hill stations in India. Surrounded by tea estates and beautiful green scenery, Kotagiri offers plenty of trekking and rock climbing opportunities. There are picturesque tea states and lush greenery, meadows, and rivers on the trekking trails in this region. On the trekking trails in this region, there are picturesque tea states and lush greenery, and rivers. Kodanad (15 km), Catherine Falls (7.5 km) and Longwood Shola (3 km) are the most popular hiking trails in Kotagiri. Kodanad Viewpoint, Catherine Falls, Elk Falls (7 km) and Rangaswami Peak and Pillar are some of Kotagiri’s tourist attractions.


Image Source: livemint.com
  • Best Time To Visit: The best time to visit Kotagiri is between December and May
  • Peak Season: December is the peak season month
  • Ideal Trip Duration: Hall day to Full Day
  • Where to Stay: Kotagiri offers a wide range of accommodation options in the form of resorts, villas, and lodges from budget to mid-range and highly luxurious hotels
  • State: Tamil Nadu
  • District: The Nilgiris
  • Max Weather: The weather is pleasant all around the year. The minimum temperature is 18 degrees C in winter; the maximum is 32 degrees C. Summer has a temperature between 24- 36 degrees C.

8. Manali:

It is one of the most beautiful hill stations in India. The Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, Hadimba Temple, Bhrigu Lake, Vashisht Temple, Manu Temple, and Great Himalayan National Park are some of Manali’s famous tourist spots. Manali also has many worth visiting Buddhist monasteries. The other attractions in Manali include Enfield Point, Manali Gompa, Manu Temple, Naggar Castle, Nehru Kund, and Zana Waterfalls. Most adventure sports take place during the period from June to September.


Image Source: voyanture.com
  • Best Time To Visit: It is on the list of hill stations in India to visit in May. September to May is an ideal time to visit this best hill station in India for a honeymoon.
  • Peak Season: April – May is the peak season
  • Ideal Trip Duration: 3 days full
  • Where to Stay: Budget Options, Luxury stay hotels and Resorts are available in Manali
  • State: Himachal Pradesh
  • District: Kullu
  • Max Weather: Manali summer weather: maximum-25 ° C, minimum-12 ° C, winter: maximum-10 ° C, minimum-5 ° C.

9. Doodhpathri:

Doodhpathri is counted in the top 10 hill stations in India. Tangnar, Mujpather, Dophkhal, Sochilpather, Palmaidan, and Parihas are the main attractions of Doodhpathri. The place is known for many camping spots, and from Daksum the trail climbs steeply up to the Sinthan Pass at 3,748 m high. It is the paradise of a trekker covered by coniferous forests, gurgling streams and hidden grassy meadows with the gushing Bringi River’s melodious sound forming the backdrop.


Image Source: risingkashmir.com
  • Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Doodhpathri is during the spring and summer months from May to September
  • Peak Season: Doodhpathri has recently been included in Kashmir’s list of tourist spots. This area wasn’t open to tourists until a while ago and is still unknown to most people because of this. Every year, thousands of tourists pass through Kashmir, but only a few come to Doodhpathri
  • Ideal Trip Duration: One Day
  • Where to Stay: This is only a sightseeing place, no hotel or full-fledged market is built
  • State: Jammu and Kashmir
  • District: Budgam
  • Max Weather: Doodhpathri weather can best be described in summer as pleasant and in winter as very cold.

10. Auli:

Auli is the best hill station in India in November, one of India’s best ski resorts and top destinations for adventure sports in Uttarakhand. The major tourist spots in and around Auli are Gurso Bugyal, Chattrakund, Kwani Bugyal, Hot Spring Point, Narsimha Mandir, Shankaracharya Tapasthali of Joshimath, Nandaprayag, Rudraprayag, and Pandukeshwar. Also popular among the travellers visiting Auli are excursions to Hemkund and the Valley of Flowers.


Image Source: traveltriangle.com
  • Best Time to Visit: April to June and November to March. The best time to visit Auli is from November to March for skiing and April to June for trekking
  • Peak Season: December to February
  • Ideal Trip Duration: 1 to 2 days
  • Where to Stay: Auli has limited facilities to accommodate. A convenient place to stay is the GMVN Skiing and Tourist Resort, as it has all the necessary facilities. Tourists can also stay at the Joshimath Char Dham Camp in tents
  • State: Uttarakhand
  • District: Chamoli
  • Max Weather: Weather in Auli: Summer: Maximum-25 ° C and minimum-8 ° C. Winter: Maximum-15 ° C and minimum-2 ° C

11. Dhanaulti:

Dhanaulti comes on the list of romantic hill stations in India. It is located at 2286 m above sea level and is known for its quiet environment in the Deodar, Rhododendron and Oak forests. Dhanaulti is still untouched and is an alternative to crowded Mussoorie and Dehradun. Eco Park is Dhanaulti’s major attraction. There are two eco-parks around 200 meters apart, Amber and Dhara. Visitors also have a facility to plant a sapling in their beloved’s memory, which is called a memory sapling plantation.


Image Source: traveltriangle.com
  • Best Time to Visit: The best months to visit Dhanaulti are from September to June
  • Peak Season: Summers and winters are the high seasons, so book your hotel ahead of time
  • Ideal Trip Duration: One full day
  • Where to Stay: Locations to stay in Dhanaulti include accommodation options from standard to low budget. Also in this region, there are deluxe campsites and guesthouses
  • State: Uttarakhand
  • District: Tehri
  • Max Weather: Weather in Dhanaulti: Summer: Maximum-37 ° C and minimum-11 ° C;Winter: Maximum- 27° C and minimum-4 ° C

12. Srinagar:

Srinagar is among the top 5 hill stations in India and the top places in Jammu and Kashmir. Srinagar was eulogized for its scenic splendour and delightful ambience by travellers, poets, kings and saints alike. The Jhelum River is crossing the city and serving its people as a lifeline. Travel to Srinagar as the place is renowned for its enchanting lakes filled with houseboats and shikaras set among wooded mountain slopes and is an ideal place to spend your vacation.


Image Source: risingkashmir.com

  • Best Time to Visit: Between April and October, the best time to visit Srinagar
  • Peak Season: The spring blossoms, the cold summer weather, and the autumn gold and red hues all make Kashmir travel during the peak season enjoyable
  • Ideal Trip Duration: 3 days
  • Where to Stay: Holiday places in Srinagar range from upmarket hotels, and budget categories to houseboat accommodation
  • State: Jammu and Kashmir
  • District: Srinagar
  • Max Weather: Weather in Dhanaulti: Summer: maximum-37 ° C and Minimum-11 ° C, Winter: Maximum- 27° C and Minimum-4 ° C

13. Dharamshala:

Dharamshala ranks amongst the ten best hill stations in India, It is covered by thick woods of oak and coniferous trees and is enveloped by the Dhauladhar ranges on its three sides. From ancient temples, churches and monasteries to museums and beautiful trekking trails, it has a lot to offer. Some of the most important tourist attractions are the ancient Chamunda Temple, Dalai Lama Temple, Bhagsunath Temple, Namgyalma Stupa, Norbulingka Institute, Gyuto Monastery, and Indru Nag. Dharamshala is a point of departure for several hiking trails.


Image Source: holidify.com
  • Best Time to Visit: April to June & September to November
  • Peak Season: April to May & September to October
  • Ideal Trip Duration: 2 Full days
  • Where to Stay: In the form of private hotels and tourist lodges, Dharamshala has many accommodation options
  • State: Himachal Pradesh
  • District: Kangra
  • Max Weather: The maximum temperature at Dharamshala in summer is 30°C and the minimum is 16°C, while in winter the maximum is 16°C and the minimum drops up to 5 °C.

14. Mount Abu:

Mount Abu, the most popular hill station in India and it is Rajasthan’s only hill station in the desert, located at an altitude of 1220 m. On the magnificent Aravalli Ranges, it lies at the top of a granite peak and is covered with lush green forests. In the form of lakes, temples, and forts, Mount Abu has many tourist attractions. The top tourist attraction of Mount Abu is Dilwara Jain Temples, Guru Shikhar Peak, Adhar Devi Temple, Shri Raghunathji Temple, Achalgarh Fort, Nakki Lake, Gaumukh Temple, and Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary.


Image Source: holidify.com
  • Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Mount Abu is during either the months of February – June or September – December, as these are the times when the weather is pleasant enough to enjoy sightseeing. Tourists also plan holidays in December every year around the famous Winter Festival held in Mount Abu
  • Peak Season: March to May
  • Ideal Trip Duration: 2 full days
  • Where to Stay: From deluxe hotels to mid-rung and budget hotels, Mount Abu offers several accommodation options.
  • State: Rajasthan
  • District: Sirohi
  • Max Weather: Temperature in summer ranges from 24-41°C, and in winter from 14-30°C.

15. Lonavala:

Lonavala can be called the most beautiful hill station in India as clouds cover it in the rainy season. The town’s name derives from the Sanskrit word ‘ Lonavali, ‘ which refers to a ‘ cave group. ‘ Due to the presence of many caves in and around the city, the name was given to the place. In the form of some caves, lakes, forts, and waterfalls, Lonavala has several tourist sites. Lohagad Fort, Karla Caves, Rajmachi Point, Valvan Dam, Lonavala Lake, Tiger’s Leap, Bhaja Caves, Bhushi Dam, Rajmachi Fort, Korigad Fort, Kune Waterfalls, Tikona Fort, Visapur Fort, Bedsa Caves, and Tung Fort are some of best places to be visited in Lonavala.


  • Best Time to Visit: During the monsoon, between July to September, the best time to visit Lonavala is when the scenic spots become lush green, and the waterfalls are in full flow
  • Peak Season: August to September
  • Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 Days
  • Where to Stay: There are numerous accommodation options to suit all budgets in addition to the middle-budget MTDC resorts at Khandala and Lonavala
  • State: Maharashtra
  • District: Pune
  • Max Weather: Summer: Max.-31 ° C and minimum-18 ° C Winter: Max.-25 ° C and minimum-12 ° C

16. Pahalgam:

Pahalgam is the coolest hill station in India. Pahalgam is also linked to the Amarnath cave holy yatra. Chandanwari is the starting point of the Amarnath yatra, 16 km from Pahalgam. The Pahalgam-Sonmarg Trek and the treks to Chandanwari, Kolahoi Glacier and Sheshnag Lake are some of Pahalgam’s famous treks. Some of Pahalgam’s tourist attractions are Horse Riding Fishing (at Lidder River), Sledging at the frozen Glaciers, Long walks in the jungles, Alpine Skiing and White Water Rafting (Lidder River).


  • Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Pahalgam is from mid-April to mid-November as the weather is ideal for travelling during these months and you can enjoy a host of outdoor activities
  • Peak Season: April – June, July- September
  • Ideal Trip Duration: Two to three days
  • Where to Stay: Hotels and lodges, JKTDC Dak Bungalow and several tourist huts
  • State: Jammu and Kashmir
  • District: Anantnag district
  • Max Weather: The temperature during the summer ranges from 11 ° C to 25 ° C. Winter temperature drops below 0 ° C. The landscape is nothing less than picturesque with snow-capped hills and trees.

17. Sonamarg:

Sonamarg is located at a height of 2740 m, also known as the “Golden Meadow.” As spectacular as the place itself is the drive to this beautiful meadow. You’ll see another aspect of Kashmir driving through the Sindhu Valley. It is the best hill station in India in June. Sonmarg has scenic trekking routes that take you to Vishansar, Krishnasar, and Gangabal picturesque Himalayan lakes. With its amazing landscapes, flowers valley and natural beauty, Sonmarg is a place for tourists to enjoy every moment.


Image Source: risingkashmir.com
  • Best Time to Visit: May to September and November to February
  • Peak Season: During July and August, most tourists throng the area as devotees go on their annual Amarnath pilgrimage
  • Ideal Trip Duration: 2 full days
  • Where to Stay: Hotels, lodges, Dak Bungalow, and tourist huts
  • State: Jammu and Kashmir
  • District: Ganderbal
  • Max Weather: The minimum temperature in summer is usually an average of 9 degrees centigrade, and the maximum is about 34 degrees centigrade. Sonamarg experiences winter with the average temperature ranging from from-8-degree centigrade to 18 degrees Celsius from November to March.

18. Kufri:

Kufri is snow-covered and therefore one of the hill stations in India to visit in December. Kufri is known for its picturesque beauty and pleasant climate. Its trekking and hiking trails are popular. Kufri is also known for other activities such as skiing, and sliding downhill on a sled. It has Himachal Pradesh’s oldest ski slopes. Kufri is also a haven for wildlife enthusiasts as the Himalayan Nature Park is located on the outskirts of the city.


Image Source: pinterest
  • Best Time to Visit: Between April and June, the best time to visit Kufri is in summer, but you can also enjoy snowfall and skiing between December and February
  • Peak Season: December – January
  • Ideal Trip Duration:  2 – 3 Days
  • Where to Stay: There’s a holiday resort, a Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation winter sports club, a PWD Rest house, and a few guesthouses
  • State: Himachal Pradesh
  • District: Shimla
  • Max Weather: The average yearly temperature in Kufri is 12.7 ° C. With an average temperature of 19.4 ° C, the warmest month of the year is the month of June. The average temperature in January is 4.2 ° C.

19. Gangtok:

Gangtok is the most beautiful hill station in India. A wonderland in the Himalayas, Gangtok has unparalleled natural beauty, a variety of vegetation, undisturbed valleys, peaceful surroundings, and a rich cultural heritage. The top places to visit in Gangtok are Enchey Monastery, Ganesh Tok, Do Drul Chorten Stupa, Rumtek Monastery, Tsomgo Lake, Ban Jhakri Falls, Nathula Pass, Pemayangtse Monastery, Yumthang Valley, Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Gardens, Gonjang Monastery, and Ranka Monastery. MG Road, Gangtok’s main street is a great place to chill out all day long and is Gangtok’s main shopping area.


  • Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Gangtok is to enjoy the sightseeing from March to May and from September to November with cool weather. Better to avoid visiting Gangtok when massive landslides could occur in the monsoon season
  • Peak Season: March to May
  • Ideal Trip Duration: 2 full days
  • Where to Stay: Gangtok has a decent list of places to stay, as you can find a variety of hotels from premium to budget
  • State: Sikkim
  • District: East Sikkim
  • Max Weather: Summer: Maximum – 20°C and Minimum – 2°C, Winter: Maximum – 13°C and Minimum – 17°C.

20. Gulmarg:

Gulmarg is always among the top 40 hill stations in India and is well known for the National Ice Speed Skating Championship. The tourism of Gulmarg is not only famous for its fantastic beauty but also some other attractions. You can also ride in a Gondola (cable car ride), and take the tourist ride to Kongdori, to enjoy the magnificent meadow sights from the top. A trek to Alpather Lake, about 13 km from Gulmarg, is also popular. Gulmarg assumes an unparalleled beauty with the surrounding forests of tall conifers.


Image Source: nenow.in
  • Best Time to Visit: May to September and November to February
  • Peak Season: March to June: The summer season in Gulmarg is not only these months, but it is also the peak tourist season here
  • Ideal Trip Duration: 3 days
  • Where to Stay: Gulmarg has plenty of opportunities to stay. In Gulmarg, you will find various options for accommodation, such as hotels and lodges
  • State: Jammu and Kashmir
  • District: Baramulla
  • Max Weather: Pack heavy woollen as the temperature drops to 4 degrees Celsius. The temperature here does not go beyond 29 degrees Celsius in summer.

21. Mussoorie:

Mussoorie is one of the best hill stations in India to visit. Every year, the lush green hills, the varied flora and fauna, and the majestic Himalayan view attract several thousands of domestic and international tourists to Mussoorie. Mussoorie has several tourist attractions such as Kempty Falls, Gun Hill, Camel’s Back Road, Jharipani Falls, Mall Road, Childer’s Lodge, Bhatta Falls, Dhanaulti, and Kanatal. Mussoorie also offers some possibilities for adventure and shopping. Tourists can enjoy riding on horseback or a leisurely walk across Camel’s Back Road and a ropeway ride up to Gun Hills.


Image Source: elloras.in
  • Best Time to Visit: Between April to June and again from September to November, is the best season to visit Mussoorie
  • Peak Season: April to May & September to October
  • Ideal Trip Duration: 2 full days
  • Where to Stay: Mussoorie places to stay range from deluxe hotels to standard and budget hotels
  • State: Uttarakhand
  • District: Dehradun
  • Max Weather: Summer weather is 24 ° C maximum and 14 ° C minimum, winter is 12 ° C maximum and 2 ° C minimum.

22. Nainital:

Nainital is known for its picturesque views of the mountains and is commonly known as India’s Lake District. Nainital derives its name from Naini Lake an altitude of 1938 m. Naina Peak or China Peak with an elevation of 2,615 m is the highest point. Nainital is surrounded on three sides by mountains, and the city is spread around the beautiful lake of Naini. Nainital is listed as an important hill station in India. Naina Peak, Nainital Lake, Naina Devi Temple, Mall, Raj Bhavan, High Altitude Zoo, Bhimtal, and Sattal are some of the significant sites in Nainital.


Image Source: ntraveladvisor.com
  • Best Time to Visit: From March to May & December to February, is the best time to visit Nainital
  • Peak Season: April through June and December through January. The city is usually very crowded in May and June because of the rush of tourists to escape the hot summer of the plains, but the temperatures are cool
  • Ideal Trip Duration: 2 full days
  • Where to Stay: Nainital hosts high-cost hotels and budget accommodation
  • State: Uttarakhand
  • District: Nainital
  • Max Weather: Summer: Max – 24°C and Min – 14°C, Winter: Max – 13°C and Min – 0°C

23. Idukki:

The name Idukki comes from the Malayalam word Idukku, meaning a narrow gorge, and it is the best hill station in South India. The Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary spread over 70 sq. km, is a major tourist attraction. The sanctuary is a natural habitat for several animals. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary’s famous tiger reserve at Thekkady, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, and Eravikulam National Park, Kattappana famous for its spices, Mangaladevi Temple, Vagamon, and Munnar, most of Kerala’s renowned hill station, are Idukki district brilliant attractions.


Image Source: livemint.com
  • Best Time to Visit: Between October and May, is the best time to visit Idukki
  • Peak Season: The peak season is between March and May.
  • Ideal Trip Duration: Exploring this area usually takes 1-2 full days
  • Where to Stay: Different types of stays and hotels are available
  • State: Kerala
  • District: Idukki
  • Max Weather: The minimum temperature in Idukki, Kerala is 25°C and the Maximum is 35°C.

24. Dalhousie:

Dalhousie is surrounded by snow-peaked mountains, is among the top 10 hill stations in North India and is situated on the western edge of the Himalayan Dhauladhar Mountains. The best places to visit in Dalhousie are Ganji Pahari, Dainkund Peak, Khajjiar, Norwood Paramdham, Rang Mahal, Bara Pathar Temple, Hari Raya Temple, St. Patrick Temple, Bakrota Hills, Satdhara Falls, Lohali Village, Kalatop and Kalatop Forest, Panchpula, Subhash Baoli, and Salooni. For nature lovers and adventurers, Dalhousie also offers a lot of activities. The ideal spots for trekking enthusiasts in Dalhousie are Garam Sadak, Jandrighat, Motitibba, and Sach Pass. Minjar Fair and Summer Festival are Dalhousie’s two major festivals.


Image Source: parindetours.com
  • Best Time to Visit: From March to June and from October to December, is the best time to visit Dalhousie.
  • Peak Season: April to May & December
  • Ideal Trip Duration: 2 full days
  • Where to Stay: Many hotels are available to suit every budget. There are also guesthouses, resorts, and homestays
  • State: Himachal Pradesh
  • District: Chamba
  • Max Weather: In summer the temperature lies between 14 – 25°C, in winter it ranges from minus 2°C to 13°C.

25. Coonoor:

Coonoor is among the major hill stations in South India. Coonoor offers the panoramic view of the lush green Nilgiri hills with their ravines, valleys, and waterfalls to the travellers. Coonoor’s main attraction is Sim’s Park, a well-kept Botanical Garden that houses several plant varieties found missing in the other hill stations. It spreads across 12 hectares. Some favourite places to visit in Coonoor include Lamb’s Rock, Dolphin’s Nose, St. Catherine Falls, and Law’s Falls. Lamb’s Rock, which is around 9 km from Coonoor, is one of the popular trekking trails.


  • Best Time to Visit: Coonoor best time to visit is March through June and September through October
  • Peak Season: The peak season is between April and June
  • Ideal Trip Duration: Visiting Coonoor usually takes a full day
  • Where to Stay: Coonoor accommodation options range from luxury hotels to budget options. There are also tourist lodges with decent accommodation other than this
  • State: Tamil Nadu
  • District: The Nilgiris
  • Max Weather: The maximum temperature in Coonoor is 24.3°C, and the minimum is 4.8°C.

26. Coorg:

Coorg is on the list of top 10 hill stations in south India. Coorg is one of India’s most famous places to visit and one of Bangalore’s popular 2-day trips. It is also one of Karnataka’s top tourist destinations. Talacauvery, Abbey Falls and Dubare are some of Coorg Packages ‘ best places to include. The main attractions are places such as the seat of Raja, Abbey Falls, Iruppu Falls, Omkareshwara Temple, Bylakuppe, Talacauvery, and Dubare. The famous Cauvery River has its origins in the Talacauvery Coorg hills.


Image Source: traveltriangle.com
  • Best Time to Visit: Between October to May
  • Peak Season: February to May
  • Ideal Trip Duration: 1 to 2 Days
  • Where to Stay: Hotels, Resorts and Homestays are available in Coorg
  • State: Karnataka
  • District: Coorg (Kodagu)
  • Max Weather: Summer is 29 ° C maximum & 18 ° C minimum, 24 ° C maximum winter and 13 ° C minimum temperature at Coorg.

27. Munnar:

It is among the highest hill stations in South India. Munnar also has South India’s highest peak-Anamudi, towering over 2695 meters. There are trekking facilities available for walking to Anamudi. The tea plants that cover the hills of Munnar make you feel like a deep green carpet. The fascinating greenery, mountains, calm, lakes and waterfalls of Munnar attract honeymooners and tourists all year round. The popular Munnar tourist destinations are Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point, Kundala Lake, Top Station, Anamudi Peak, Devikulam, Nyayamakad Falls, Thoovanam Falls, Eravikulam National Park, and Attukal Waterfalls.


Image Source: holidaymonk.com
  • Best Time to Visit: February to May
  • Peak Season: Throughout the year, Munnar offers different experiences, while the peak season is March to May
  • Ideal Trip Duration: Exploring the Munnar sightseeing places usually takes at least two full days
  • Where to Stay: Hotels, Resorts, and Luxury Stays are available
  • State: Kerala
  • District: Idukki
  • Max Weather: Summer:-26 ° C maximum and 15 ° C minimum; Winter: Temperature is 22 ° C maximum and 5 ° C minimum.

28. Darjeeling:

Darjeeling is well known among hill stations in east India. Darjeeling is internationally recognized as one of the most popular black teas in the world for its high-quality Darjeeling tea. Some of the top and most important places to visit in Darjeeling are Singalila National Park, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Tiger Hill, Japanese Peace Pagoda, Ghoom Monastery, Sandakphu Trek, Mahakal Temple, Bengal Natural History Museum, etc.


Image Source: greetholidays.com
  • Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Darjeeling is from October to March when the temperature is pleasant, and the sky is usually clear with beautiful views of the snow peaks of Kanchenjunga.
  • Peak Season: Peak tourist season is from March to May
  • Ideal Trip Duration: 2 to 3 days
  • Where to Stay: There are accommodations suitable for all types of budgets projected on a holiday trip to Darjeeling by groups/individuals
  • State: West Bengal
  • District: Darjeeling
  • Max Weather: In Darjeeling, the weather in summer has a maximum temperature of 26°C and a minimum temperature of 9°C, Winter the maximum temperature is usually 15°C and the minimum is minus 2°C.

29. Mahabaleshwar:

Mahabaleshwar is among the most beautiful hill stations in West India. For its stunning views, beautiful landscapes and pleasant temperatures, Mahabaleshwar attracts hordes of tourists. Mahabaleshwar has many tourist attractions such as forts, temples, lakes, and much more. Some famous tourist spots in Mahabaleshwar are Pratapgarh Fort, Venna Lake, Mahabaleshwar Temple, Krishnabai Temple, Lingamala Falls, Tapola, and Panchgani. There are several strategically located viewpoints for capturing the panoramic views created by the majestic Sahyadri Mountains and deep valleys. Popular viewpoints are the Seat of Arthur, Wilson Point, Kate’s Point, Elephant Head Point, Connaught Peak, and Bombay Point. Mahabaleshwar is known for strawberry and mulberry cultivation.


Image Source: traveltriangle.com
  • Best Time to Visit: June to October
  • Peak Season: August to September
  • Ideal Trip Duration: 2 full days
  • Where to Stay: Different types of resorts and hotels are available
  • State: Maharashtra
  • District: Satara
  • Max Weather: In summer it reaches a maximum of 31°C and a minimum of 18°C, and in winter the peak can be 25°C, and the minimum temperature falls up to 12 °C.

30. Ooty:

Ooty is one of the top places to visit and experience and is a famous hill station in south India. Ooty is often referred to as the ‘ Queen of Hill Stations, ‘ also known as Udhagamandalam. It is located above sea level at an altitude of 7,440 feet (2,240 meters). Ooty Lake, Botanical Garden, Rose Garden, Wenlock Downs, Pine Forest, and Emerald Lake are the most popular sightseeing spots in Ooty, apart from the pleasant weather. Ooty is located in the hills of Nilgiri, meaning the “blue mountains,” so-called because of the Kurinji flower that blooms every twelve years giving a bluish tinge to the slopes.


Image Source: toursinindia.in
  • Best Time to Visit: March to June & September to October
  • Peak Season: April to June
  • Ideal Trip Duration: 2 to 3 days
  • Where to Stay: Ooty has a lot of resorts and hotels
  • State: Tamil Nadu
  • District: The Nilgiris
  • Max Weather: Ooty weather has a maximum summer temperature of 23°C & a minimum of 11°C. In winter the maximum is 20°C & minimum temperature is 5°C.

ADDITIONAL TIPS:

It is always an exciting affair to travel to a new destination. Make sure you don’t miss out on the city’s best parts, the best food joints, the unique sightseeing spots, and the best shopaholic markets there. Going on a hill holiday, don’t miss the tips below as you travel to a hill station to keep in mind.

  • Don’t leave unplanned. Plan your trip’s itinerary – where to stay, what to do, things to pack and places not to miss.
  • A hill station trip requires adventurous activities such as trekking, climbing the mountains, etc. Make sure you’re carrying a good pair of comfortable shoes that prevent you from getting sore feet and blisters.

While the British founded several hill stations, most of these places were developed as a pleasure resort and summer capital by Indian rulers themselves. Today, a hill station in India to visit serves as a true retreat from the summer heat as well as the city life’s humdrum, but the growing marketing pressure is also taking its toll as tourist numbers increase. Rather than offering quiet refuge from the city’s din, some of India’s most popular hill stations have become more like cities with the same hustle, crowd, and noise. Most of these hill stations are best visited in their off (lean) season. So comment below, Which hill station is next on your list?

Frequently Asked Questions & Answers:

1. Which is the best hill station in India? List the best five of all.

Ans: The five best hill stations to visit in India are:-

  • Leh
  • Kasauli
  • Auli
  • Mussoorie
  • Manali.

2. In all, there are how many hill stations in India?

Ans: There are more than 400 hill stations in India.

3. Which is the highest hill station in India?

Ans: Located at an altitude of 3,505 meters amid the Himalayan and Karakoram mountain ranges, Leh, the Ladakh region headquarters in Kashmir is India’s highest hill station.

4. Which is the most popular hill station in India?

Ans: The most popular hill station in India is not a single one, but a few famous places

  • Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
  • Gulmarg, Jammu, and Kashmir
  • Shillong, Meghalaya.
  • Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu.

5. Name the cheapest hill station in India.

Ans: The cheapest hill stations in India are as follows –

  • Kasauli, Himachal.
  • Lansdowne, Uttarakhand.
  • Gangtok, Sikkim.
  • Yelagiri, Tamil Nadu.
  • Amboli, Maharashtra.

6. Which hill station is close to Delhi?

Ans: The best hill stations for a weekend trip near Delhi are:

  • Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
  • Mcleodganj, Himachal Pradesh
  • Lansdowne, Uttarakhand
  • Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh

7. Suggest some hill stations in India for honeymoon.

Ans: Best hill stations for your honeymoon in India-

  • Ooty
  • Dhanaulti
  • Kasauli
  • Mount Abu
  • Shillong
  • Nainital
  • Mcleodganj
  • Dharamsala.
Tejaswi

About Tejaswi

Tejaswi, a Master of Business Administration graduate, is our senior content writer, specializing in travel and lifestyle products. She is quite creative in her approach. Tejaswi ardently follows the latest news and present market trends and makes sure her readers are always up-to-date. In-depth research and follow-ups on any topic along with unique and knowledgable pieces of writing, is what makes her stand apart. Besides writing, Tejaswi also loves cooking, listening to music, and traveling.
ADVERTISEMENT