Uttar Pradesh is primarily known for its religious importance, and unlike its neighbouring northern states, it is surrounded by lofty mountains. Nevertheless, there are a few hill stations in Uttar Pradesh that attract tourists from across the country, and they can be great destinations for weekends. Additionally, they are easily accessible from neighbouring cities and can be easily covered within a day.

A few of the mention-worthy famous hill stations in Uttar Pradesh are as follows –

1. Mani Parbat and Sugriv Parbat

Located in close proximity to Ayodhya, the Mani Parbat and Sugriv Parbat are favourites among tourists for their mythological importance. According to legends, when Hanuman was carrying the mountain with Sanjeevani for Lakhshman’s wounds, a portion fell at this place. As a result, it became a place of immense religious importance later on. So, if you love visiting mythologically important places, this is undoubtedly a great place for you.

• Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
• Top Things to Do: Photography and nature exploration
• Top Places to Visit: Mani Parbat and Sugriv Parbat
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 500 to ₹ 1000 per person (1 Day)
• How to Reach: By air, rail and road.

2. Gokhar Hills

Gokhar Hill station in UP is famous for its iconic rock formation that perfectly curves waterfalls and caves. This is a great picnic spot for locals and also has opportunities for rock climbing. Additionally, this place is easily accessible from nearby cities such as Gwalior and Prayagraj, and it takes less than 3 hours to reach Gokhar Hill from Chitrakoot.

• Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
• Top Things to Do: Photography and nature exploration
• Top Places to Visit: Alha Udal Chowk, Ram Kurd, Suraj Kurd Barichandrika Devi Temple and Shiva Temple at Katheswar.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1,000 per person (1 Day)
• How to Reach: By air, rail and road

3. Khatri Pahar

Khatri Pahar is located in a small village of Shydha, which is at a distance of 24 km from Banda, located close to the Ken River. This place is located at a height of 259 m and is famous for a temple dedicated to Angleshwari Devi at the top. Moreover, this place also has mythological importance, and devotees flock here to seek blessings from the goddess. A mela is organised here on every Navaratri, and you can see a bevy of locals participating in the same.

• Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
• Top Things to Do: Photography and nature exploration
• Top Places to Visit: Angleshwari Devi temple
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 500 to ₹ 1000 per person (1 Day)
• How to Reach: By air, rail and road

4. Chitrakoot

Chitrakoot is one of the top hill stations in Uttar Pradesh and is close to Lucknow city. This place has stunning views of nature and is a great place to visit on weekends. However, apart from the scenic beauty, this place mainly receives tourists for its religious importance. According to mythology, Lord Rama, Lord Lakshman and Goddess Sita spent their exile in this forest.

• Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
• Top Things to Do: Photography and nature exploration
• Top Places to Visit: Ramghat, Kamadgiri Temple, Hanuman Dhara, Sphatik Shila, Gupt Godavari Caves, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1,000 per person (1 Day)
• How to Reach: By air, rail and road.

5. Govardhan Hill

Govardhan Hill is also known as Giri Raj and is located at a distance of 22 km from Vrindavan. According to mythology, this place has the same importance as Lord Krishna. Hence, devotees around the country visit here. Moreover, this hill is just 80 ft. tall with a circumference of 38 km, making it easy for senior devotees to climb.

• Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
• Top Things to Do: Photography and nature exploration.
• Top Places to Visit: Mukharvind, Mansi Ganga, and Daan Ghati.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 500 to ₹ 1000 per person (1 Day)
• How to Reach: By air, rail and road.

Although Uttar Pradesh might not appear to be a very exciting destination per se, if you are seeking lofty snow-capped mountains or mountains with lush greenery, you can visit those within a couple of hours’ distance from Uttar Pradesh. There are a myriad of hill stations located in proximity to Uttar Pradesh, and most importantly, they are easily accessible too! Following is a laconic list of some of the most popular hill stations near Uttar Pradesh.

6. Nainital

Nainital is one of the most serene hill stations located close to Uttar Pradesh. This destination is famous for its lush green mountains and an eye-shaped lake with a turquoise hue of water. Nainital’s panoramic vistas are no less than a dreamscape, and people visit to experience the placidity and natural view. In peak seasons, you might encounter frenetic tourists gathering for a glimpse of this wonderland. Moreover, it can be easily accessible from Uttar Pradesh, and as this place is also located close to Delhi, so you can find hassle-free modes of communication to Nainital. Ideally, you need around 2 to 3 days to explore this place, but you can spend more time if required.

• Best Time to Visit: March to September
• Top Things to Do: Photography, trekking, and nature exploration
• Top Places to Visit: Naini Lake, Jim Corbett National Park, Nainital Zoo, Snow Viewpoint, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 13,000 per person (4 Day/3 Night)
• How to Reach: By air, rail and road

7. Mussoorie

Located at a height of 1900 metres, Mussoorie is a paradise for mountain lovers. This is popularly referred to as "The Queen of Hills" for its awe-inspiring vistas and tranquil atmosphere. 

Besides this, Mussoorie is a popular destination among honeymooners and is also regarded as one of the most popular romantic destinations near Uttar Pradesh. Irrespective of climate and month, you will see tourists here all year round enjoying time with their friends and family.

• Best Time to Visit: March to June
• Top Things to Do: Photography, trekking, and nature exploration
• Top Places to Visit: Naini Lake, Jim Corbett National Park, Nainital Zoo, Snow Viewpoint, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 13,000 per person (4 Day/3 Night)
• How to Reach: By air, rail and road

8. Lansdowne

When you think of a hill station, the tranquillity of nature generally comes to mind first, and Lansdowne will not disappoint you in this regard. The views of Lansdowne are undoubtedly breathtaking, and you will feel a step closer to nature. It takes less than 3 hours to reach Lansdowne from Najibabad, Uttar Pradesh, and communication from nearby cities is also swift and readily available. Nevertheless, prepare yourself to witness some exotic wildlife and iconic streets that are ideal for trekking and wandering.

Most importantly, although the temperature drops significantly during winter, the streets of Lansdowne look picture perfect, and you will not be able to resist taking photos.

• Best Time to Visit: October to January
• Top Things to Do: Photography, trekking, and nature exploration
• Top Places to Visit: Garhwali Museum, Bhulla Taal, Tiffin Top, Santoshi Mata Mandir, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 10,000 per person (3 Day/2 Night)
• How to Reach: By air, rail and road

9. Almora

If you are seeking relief from the hustle and bustle of the city, Almora is an exciting destination for you. Most importantly, it can be easily reached from Uttar Pradesh, and you can experience a refreshing atmosphere with fresh zephyr. 

This place is nestled in the Kumaon region of the Himalayas and offers plenty of destinations for sightseeing. You can hire a car to explore the nearby places and taste some of the delicious foods of the state.

• Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to November
• Top Things to Do: Photography, trekking, and nature exploration
• Top Places to Visit: Chitai Golu Devta Temple, Martola, Simtola, Jageshwar, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 3,000 per person (2 Day/1 Night – Accommodation cost)
• How to Reach: By air, rail and road

10. Mukteshwar

Mukteshwar lies close to Nainital and can be easily accessed from Uttar Pradesh. This place is famous for its evergreen views of the mighty Himalayas, and if you are an adventure seeker, you can enjoy some here too! 

Besides its scenic beauty, this is also ideal for religious people as the town has a 350 years old temple of Lord Shiva, making it special for tourists. Here you can also see picturesque cottages, lush meadows and scenic orchards that you can cherish even after the trip.

• Best Time to Visit: October to June
• Top Things to Do: Hiking, skiing, and nature exploration
• Top Places to Visit: Mukteshwar Dham, Chauli Ki Jali, Jain Mandir, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 6,000 per person (3 Day/2 Night)
• How to Reach: By air, rail and road

11. Champawat

Champawat is primarily famous among trekkers and adventure seekers for its challenging terrain and spectacular sight. So, if you love exploring and climbing, you must visit Champawat. 

Also, this place is an offbeat destination, and you will get enough time to explore and push your limits. Apart from adventure, you can also see some spectacular architectural excellence around every corner of this destination.

• Best Time to Visit: October to April
• Top Things to Do: Hiking, skiing, camping, and nature exploration
• Top Places to Visit: Banasur ka Kila, Shyamla Tal, Kanteshwar Mahadev Temple, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 6,500 per person (3 Day/2 Night)
• How to Reach: By air, rail and road

12. Kausani

Kausani is located at an altitude of 1,890 metres and is famous for its serene and quaint atmosphere. This is a popular honeymoon destination for its pleasant and refreshing aura. Kausani is formerly known as Valna, and the sunset is the prime attraction here. 

Nevertheless, as this place is located in the Himalayas, it receives snow in the winters and thus becomes gorgeous to look at. Also, if you are travelling from Uttar Pradesh, the communication is great, and it takes around 7 hours to reach from Baheri.

• Best Time to Visit: October to January, April to June
• Top Things to Do: Hiking and nature exploration.
• Top Places to Visit: Baijnath Temple, Gwaldam, Rudragiri Caves and fall, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 13,500 for two people (3 Day/2 Night)
• How to Reach: By air, rail and road.

13. Pauri Garhwal

Pauri Garhwal is hidden in plain sight and is a paradise for travellers. This place is endowed with prolific cultural history and astonishing natural beauty. The forest of coniferous trees covers this place, and experiencing this lush greenery is a treat to the eyes. 

Also, this place has multiple temples, and religious travellers also pay a visit here. Additionally, the sunset here is worth gazing at and is perfect for cherishing the beauty after the excursion.

• Best Time to Visit: October to January, March to September
• Top Things to Do: Photography and nature exploration.
• Top Places to Visit: Chakumba Viewpoint, Kyunkaleshwar Mahadev, Kandoliya, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 2,500 per person (1 Day)
• How to Reach: By air, rail and road

14. Pithoragarh

Pithoragarh is often recognised as “Little Kashmir” for its refreshing and fresh environment. This small and beautiful village is eye candy for anyone who loves natural beauty. However, you can visit enormous forts here and dip your feet in the Kali River to rejuvenate yourself. Pithoragarh is also famous among spiritual travellers as this is the gateway to the Kailash Mansarover.

• Best Time to Visit: October to December
• Top Things to Do: Photography and trekking
• Top Places to Visit: Askot Sanctuary, Chandak, Kafni Glacier Trek, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 4,500 for two people (2 Days/ 12 Night)
• How to Reach: By air, rail and road

15. Bhimtal

If you are not able to reach Nainital, then Bhimtal is the place for you. This place is a replica of Nainital and has an abundance of things to offer. Also, this is an offbeat destination, so you are unlikely to find any touristy chaos during peak seasons. Moreover, you can see the dense pine and oak forests and experience its pleasing climate during the daytime. You can visit here from neighbouring cities easily; otherwise, communication is also very good if you are travelling from Uttar Pradesh.

• Best Time to Visit: July to August
• Top Things to Do: Boating, birdwatching, camping, trekking and photography
• Top Places to Visit: Bhimeshwar Temple, Bhimtal Lake, Sattal Lake, Garur Tal, Sattal Waterfall etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 11,000 for two people (4 Days/ 3 Nights)
• How to Reach: By air, rail and road