India has a very varied topography offering people lots of holiday destinations according to their choice of view and vibe. However, among these several destinations, people often look for hill stations to escape the scorching sun during the peak summer months and the tiring humidity. 

Apart from this, the stunning backdrop of the Aravallis, Vindhyas, and the Himalayas complemented by the cold weather offers travellers a soulful and memorable experience overall. So, if this is what you are looking for, here is a list of the top hill stations in India known for their scenic beauty and tranquil vibe. Keep reading to know more!

Whether visiting the hills in summer or winter, the places mentioned below offer you an all-new experience every time. So, form your bucket list and explore the best hill stations in India one by one to unwind your soul and weigh off work pressure:

1. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

When speaking of natural beauty, Shimla is the first name that pops into our minds. Popular as the 'Queen of the Hills,' this hilltop is a magical little town tucked away in the Himalayan ranges. The structures of this place give an authentic vibe of the colonial era, and the historic toy train is one of the top attractions of Shimla. Moreover, if you are a thrill seeker, you can also get plenty of activities to try like ice-skating, mountain biking, paragliding, etc.

• Best Time to Visit: May to June and December to January
• Top Things to Do: Toy Train Ride, Ice Skating, Paragliding, heli-skiing at Narkanda, and Shopping at Mall Road
• Top Places to Visit: Christ Church, The Ridge, Jakhoo Temple, Kalka-Shimla Railway, Mall Road
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 9000 to ₹ 10,000 per person (4 Nights/5 Days)
• How to Reach: 
  • By Air – The nearest airport is Jubbarhatti airport or Shimla airport (about 20 km away from the city)
  • By Road – Cab or bus service from neighbouring cities like New Delhi (350 km), Chandigarh (115 km), and Dehradun (230 km)
  • By Train – The nearest railway station includes Kalka railway station (about 96 km away from the city)

2. Nainital, Uttarakhand

A small town snuggled among the Uttarakhand Kumaon ranges, Nainital is one of the best hill stations to visit in India, especially for couples. The romantic surroundings of the snow-capped mountains, long-standing cedar trees, and the sight of pristine Naini Lake let you rediscover your love. In fact, in some areas, Nainital is also known as 'Heaven on Earth.'

• Best Time to Visit: March to June
• Top Things to Do: Camping and Birdwatching at Sattal, Horse Trekking at Tiffin Top, Cave exploring at Cave Garden
• Top Places to Visit: Naini Peak, Naini Lake, Snow View, Naina Devi Temple, Kainchi Dham, Hanuman Garhi, Gurney House
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 10,000 to ₹ 11,000 per person (3 Nights/4 Days)
• How to Reach:
  • By Air – The nearest airport includes Indira Gandhi International Airport (New Delhi) or Pantnagar Domestic Airport (Uttarakhand)
  • By Road – Bus or cab availability from Delhi (323 km) or Kathgodam (25 km)
  • By Train – The nearest railway station is Kathgodam railway station

3. Darjeeling, West Bengal

Amidst the majestic Himalayan backdrop, Darjeeling is a popular hill station for those seeking a retreat. The serene view and calming winds let you unwind from the stress and make you feel elated. Moreover, since this hill station is nestled at an altitude of 2,042 m, it gives a perfect postcard picture of the magnificent Himalayans, endless slopes of lush green plantation and placid waters.

• Best Time to Visit: October to May
• Top Things to Do: Riding Toy Train, River rafting in the Teesta River, Trekking, watching the sunrise from the Tiger Hill, Explore wildlife at the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park
• Top Places to Visit: Batasia Loop, Peace Pagoda, Mahakal Temple, Darjeeling Rangeet Valley Passenger Ropeway, Dali Monastery
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 8,000 to ₹ 9,000 per person (2 Nights/3 Days)
• How to Reach:
  • By Air – The nearest airport includes Siliguri-Bagdogra Airport (70 km)
  • By Road – Cab from New Jalpaiguri Junction or bus from Darjeeling Bus Station (1 km)
  • By Train – The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri Junction, Siliguri (73 km)

4. Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir

Gulmarg tops the list when it comes to finding the best hill stations in India. This beautiful hilltop is engulfed by meadows, deep ravines, snow-capped mountains, serene valleys and lush hills, situated at an altitude of 2,730 m. Moreover, there are a lot of activities for adventure seekers too, like snowboarding, skiing, camping, etc. 

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Top Things to Do: Skiing at Gulmarg Backcountry Ski Lounge, camping at Single Nallah, snowboarding at Apharwat Peak, Gondola Ride on Kongdori Gulmarg Gondola
• Top Places to Visit: Alpather Lake, Khilanmarg, Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve, Gulmarg Gondola, Maharani Temple, Seven Springs
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 13,000 to ₹ 14,000 per person (3 Nights/4 Days)
• How to Reach:
  • By Air – The nearest airport includes Srinagar domestic airport (56 km)
  • By Road – Bus services are available from Sonmarg (125 km) and Srinagar (51 km). In contrast, you can also take a cab.
  • By Train - The nearest railway station is the Jammu railway station. 

5. Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Popular for its panoramic view, snow-covered mountains, culture and history, Manali is one of the first hill stations people want to visit at least once. Nestled at an altitude of 2050 m, this hill station sprawls over the banks of the river Beas. It is a perfect place for relaxation with the stunning backdrop of the Himalayas, lush greenery, and majestic waterfalls. 

• Best Time to Visit: October to June
• Top Things to Do: River rafting on the Beas River, Skiing at Solang Valley, Experiencing Bird-eye view while paragliding, Exploring the trekking trails
• Top Places to Visit: Bhrigu Lake, Hidimba Devi Temple, Manali Sanctuary, Pin Valley National Park, Jogni Falls, Vashishth Temple
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 10,000 to ₹ 11,000 per person (4 Nights/5 Days)
• How to Reach:
  • By Air – The nearest airport includes Kullu Manali airport (50 km away)
  • By Road – Cab or take bus services are available from Shimla (248 km), Kullu (40 km), New Delhi (555 km) or Leh (427 km)
  • By Train - The nearest railway station is Joginder Nagar railway station

6. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand

Curled up in the foothills of Himalayan ranges, Mussoorie is a beautiful hill station to consider if you are looking for peace and serenity. This little town is greatly influenced by colonial times, giving a vibe through its structure and setting. Moreover, the picturesque background with mountains covered in snow, waterfalls, lakes and lush forest makes the heart skip a beat.

• Best Time to Visit: March to June
• Top Things to Do: Ziplining and trying other sports at the Adventure Park Mussoorie, boating, trying amusement rides at Company Bagh
• Top Places to Visit: Mussoorie Lake, Kempty Falls, Christ Church, K Dev Bhoomi Wax Museum, Fish Aquarium
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 10,000 to ₹ 11,000 per person (2 Nights/3 Days)
• How to Reach:
  • By Air – The nearest airport includes Jollygrant airport in Dehradun
  • By Road – There is a strong bus or cab connectivity from Delhi (312) and Dehradun (33 km)
  • By Train - The nearest railway station is Dehradun Railway Station

7. Ooty, Tamil Nadu

Stated as a summer retreat by the British during colonial time, Ooty is nothing but a delight to the sore eyes. The rolling hills, misty landscapes, lush greenery, and serene lakes all make this little town the best hill station to visit. Moreover, it stands high at an altitude of 7,440 feet, snuggled in the Nilgiri Hills. Thus, it offers a stunning postcard view of the valleys. 

• Best Time to Visit: March to June
• Top Things to Do: Ride the Nilgiri Mountain Toy Train, Discover exotic tea flavours at Tea Museum, Boat at the Ooty Lake, and Trek to Doddabetta Peak.
• Top Places to Visit: Botanical Garden, Ooty Lake, Doddabetta Peak, Pykara Falls, Emerald Lake, Wenlock Downs
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 6,000 to ₹ 7,000 per person (1 Nights/2 Days)
• How to Reach:
  • By Air – Coimbatore is the nearest domestic airport connecting to Ooty
  • By Road – Bus and cab services are available from cities including Mysore (125 km), Bangalore (280 km) and Chennai (555 km)
  • By Train - The nearest railway station is Mettupalayam railway station (46 km) and Coimbatore Junction (82 km)

8. Leh, Ladakh

Leh Ladakh is counted among the famous hill stations in India for many reasons, ranging from owning the world's highest passes to offering the most scenic views. It has a lot of things to offer to its tourists, like trekking and camping in the foothills of the Himalayas. In addition, you also get the opportunity to soak yourself up in the dramatic natural view and mesmerising landscapes. 

• Best Time to Visit: April to July
• Top Things to Do: Backpacking across the Khardung La Pass, river rafting in the Zanskar River, attending Hemis Festival, etc.
• Top Places to Visit: Pangong Lake, Tso Moriri Lake, Diskit Gompa, Shanti Stupa, Nubra Valley
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 18,000 to ₹ 20,000 per person (5 Nights/6 Days)
• How to Reach:
  • By Air – The nearest airport includes Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (5 km away)
  • By Road – Private/Government buses are available from Srinagar and Manali, or you can also take a cab. 
  • By Train - The nearest railway station to Ladakh is Tawi (700 km away)

9. Shillong, Meghalaya

Perched at an altitude of 1496 m, Shillong is the capital city of Meghalaya and a perfect tourist spot for couples and families. What makes it attractive is the scintillating view of the hills, mesmerising vista of lush forest, misty vantage points and lofty waterfalls. Also, this quaint little town will give you a vibe of the European settlers of Scotland. 

• Best Time to Visit: March to June
• Top Things to Do: Trek at David Scott trail, Camp under the Sky Full of Stars, Rock Climbing, Shop in the Iewduh Market, Boat Ride in the beautiful Ward's Lake
• Top Places to Visit: Umiam Lake, Mawphlang Sacred Grove, Don Bosco Museum, Elephant Falls, Shillong View Point
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 16,000 to ₹ 17,000 per person (5 Nights/6 Days)
• How to Reach:
  • By Air – The nearest airport includes Shillong Umroi Airport (30 km)
  • By Road – Number of busses and private car services are available from Guwahati 
  • By Train - The nearest railway station is Guwahati railway station (98 km)

10. Gangtok, Sikkim

Gangtok is another fascinating hill town in the north-eastern state of Sikkim. It offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty, comfortable temperature, and vibrant activities. Like you can get a panoramic view of the entire city through the ropeway, or you can attend the festivals held every year. Also, you will get enough options to witness the untamed beauty of the Himalayas, falls and lakes. 

• Best Time to Visit: September to October and March to June
• Top Things to Do: River rafting in the Teesta River, trekking on Tendong hill or Pelling, paragliding, Yak Safari at the Tsomgo Lake, trying ropeway
• Top Places to Visit: Tashi View Point, Tsongmo Lake, Rumtek Monastery, or Banjhakri Hills
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 6,000 to ₹ 7,000 per person (3 Nights/4 Days)
• How to Reach:
  • By Air – The nearest airport includes Siliguri-Bagdogra airport (125 km)
  • By Road – Shared or private cabs are available from New Jalpaiguri Junction, or you can take a bus from Darjeeling Bus Station
  • By Train - The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri railway station (120 km)

11. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh

Tawang is home to 500 lamas residing in the largest Tibetan Monastery in India. So, it is one of the top hill stations of India for you if you are looking to get spiritually recharged. The refreshing mountain winds, peaceful monastery and natural treks give you the peace and tranquillity you desire. Moreover, the chance to pray in a 400-year-old Tawang Gompa helps the soul-searching process. 

• Best Time to Visit: March to May and September to October
• Top Things to Do: Meditate in Taktsang Gompa, Hike through the Gorichen Peak, Stroll around the Madhuri Lake, Shop in the Tibetan Settlement Market
• Top Places to Visit: Sela Pass, Madhuri Lake, Tawang Buddhist Monastery, Nuranang Falls, Pangong Tso Lake
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 29,000 to ₹ 30,000 per person (6 Nights/7 Days)
• How to Reach:
  • By Air – The nearest airport includes Salonibari Airport in Tezpur, Assam (324 km)
  • By Road – There are enough busses and cabs available from Bomdila (176 km)
  • By Train - The nearest railway station is Rangapara railway station (320 km)

12. Chamba, Himachal Pradesh

If you like to discover history and mystic stories about places, then Chamba must be your next touring destination. Not only this, but this quaint little hilltop is also the favourite destination for Hindu devotees as they can find many temples dedicated to Lord Narayan. Apart from this, these hills also have many things to offer to nature lovers, like mystical viewpoints, passes, and other attractions. 

• Best Time to Visit: March to June
• Top Things to Do: Explore Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, Trek at the Chobia Pass, try boating at the Chamera Lake, Camp at Dalhousie
• Top Places to Visit: Chamera Lake, Manimahesh Lake, Lakshmi Narayan Temple, Hadsar waterfall, Bharmour
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 12,000 to ₹ 13,000 per person (5 Nights/6 Days)
• How to Reach:
  • By Air – The nearest airport includes Kangra Airport in Dharamsala (45 km away)
  • By Road – There are various cabs available from Pathankot, Amritsar (220 km), Kangra and Chandigarh (400 km)
  • By Train - The nearest railway station is Pathankot railway station (55 km away)

13. Munnar, Kerala

Referred to as the 'Swiss of South India', Munnar is a famous hill station in Kerala. It is a paradise for many, blessed with exhaustive natural beauty and magnetic wildlife. Moreover, the vast stretches of spice and tea plantations sprawling all over the town are just a cherry on top. In addition to this, Munnar is a trekker's ultimate destination, too, as it offers both mountain and soft trekking trails.

• Best Time to Visit: March to June
• Top Things to Do: Biking at Anamudi Shola, Wildlife spotting at Eravikulam National Park, Birdwatching at Thekkady Bird Sanctuary, Picnic at Lakkam Waterfalls, rappelling and rock climbing
• Top Places to Visit: Echo Point, Kolukkumalai Hills, Tata Tea Museum, Kundala Lake, Attukal Waterfalls
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 23,000 to ₹ 24,000 per person (3 Nights/4 Days)
• How to Reach:
  • By Air – The nearest airport includes Kochi – Cochin International Airport (101 km away)
  • By Road – Several cabs and bus services are available from Kerala (196 km) and Tamil Nadu (290 km)
  • By Train - The nearest railway station is Ernakulam Jn railway station (121 km)

14. Lonavala, Maharashtra

Perched at 622 m in the Sahyadri Range, Lonavala is a popular hill station in India situated in the districts of Pune, Maharashtra. People come here from all parts of the world to witness the lush green valleys and rediscover the glorious past of the Peshwa and Maratha Empires. Moreover, there are also several other tourist spots to explore, including caves, forts, lakes and waterfalls.

• Best Time to Visit: December to February
• Top Things to Do: Camping at Pawna Lake, Trek to Canyon Valley, Hot Air Balloon Safari, Hike to Tiger's Leap, Explore Bhaja Caves
• Top Places to Visit: Rajmachi Fort, Tiger's Leap, Aamby Valley, Lonavala Lake, Karla Caves, Bhaja Caves
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 8,000 to ₹ 9,000 per person (2 Nights/3 Days)
• How to Reach:
  • By Air – The nearest airport includes Lohegaon airport, Pune (45 km away)
  • By Road – There are cabs and busses available connecting Mumbai and Pune to Lonavala through Mumbai-Pune Expressway
  • By Train – Book a train to Lonavala railway station to reach by train

15. Coorg, Karnataka

Coorg is a misty hill station covered with a thick blanket of greenery and topped with an emerald landscape. This hilltop comes under the list of the best hill stations as it never fails to give a memorable experience to tourists with its natural charisma and beauty. In addition, it is also well known for its plentiful wildlife, delicious food and several viewpoints. 

• Best Time to Visit: March to June
• Top Things to Do: Trek through Tadiandamol, have Fun bathing elephants at Dubare Elephant camp, Take a lazy stroll through the coffee plantation, and enjoy a wholesome meal, including special Pandi Curry and Akki Roti.
• Top Places to Visit: Abbey Falls, Namdroling Monastery, Raja's Seat, Nagarahole Wild Life Sanctuary, Iruppu Falls, Madikeri
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 6,000 to ₹ 8,000 per person (1 Nights/2 Days)
• How to Reach:
  • By Air – The nearest airport includes Mangalore airport (146 km away)
  • By Road – This hill station is well connected, so numerous cabs are available from Bangalore (255 km), Mysore (118 km) and Mangalore (131 km)
  • By Train - The nearest railway stations are Mysore junction (117 km) and Mangalore Central railway station (131 km)