Summers in India are usually long, hot, sweaty, and exhausting. But our country boasts plenty of beautiful hill stations that can give you the relief you need. Not only can you enjoy the pleasantly cool climate in these places, but also soak in nature’s beauty, get your adrenaline rushing with some adventure activities, flaunt your stylish winterwear, and dig into yummy cuisines. From lush green hills and waterfalls to lovely lakes and beautiful architectural gems, the hill stations in India have it all. So, here’s a list of the best hills station you can keep handy for a memorable vacation with your loved ones.

1. Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Manali, Himachal Pradesh | #1 of 20 Hill Stations in India

Nestled in the majestic Himalayas, Manali is the perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Dotted with verdant valleys, milky-white waterfalls, fruit orchards and expansive meadows, its natural beauty is beyond compare. This stunning hill station is also home to temples and ancient forts and is peppered with cozy cafes and shopping joints. Adventure seekers are in for a treat as the hill station has plenty of options for an adrenaline rush.

• Best Places to Visit in Manali: Hidimba Devi Temple, Manali Sanctuary, Manu Temple, Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley, Bhuntar
• Things to Do in Manali: Paragliding, horse riding, mountain biking, skiing, camping, trekking, river rafting, trying local cuisines
• Best Time to Visit: October to June
• How to Reach:
  • Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport (51 km)
  • Nearest Train Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station (144 km)

 2. Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh

Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh | #2 of 20 Hill Stations in India

Located in the Kangra Valley at an altitude of 1457 m above sea level, Dharamshala is counted among the top tourist places in Himachal Pradesh. The hill station is blessed with nature’s bounty and the monasteries here add a hint of spirituality. Dharamshala is also probably the best place in India to experience and learn about Tibetan culture. HPCA Stadium, the highest international cricket stadium in the world, is also in Dharamshala.

• Best Places to Visit in Dharamshala: Dharamshala Cricket Stadium, Triund Hill, War Memorial, Bhagsunag Temple, Gyuto Monastery, Jwala Devi Temple
• Things to Do in Dharamshala: Paragliding, trekking and camping, visiting monasteries, planning a picnic at Bhagsunag Waterfall, exploring McLeod Ganj, enjoying views of Dhauladhar Ranges
• Best Time to Visit: February to June
• How to Reach:
  • Nearest Airport: Kangra Airport (13 km)
  • Nearest Train Station: Pathankot Junction (86 km)

3. McLeod Ganj, Himachal Pradesh

McLeod Ganj, Himachal Pradesh | #3 of 20 Hill Stations in India

Synonymous with scenic beauty and serenity, McLeod Ganj is a perfect getaway from the city’s hustle-bustle. It is popularly known as Little Lhasa and is famous for being the abode of the 14^th Dalai Lama. Here, you will notice a beautiful amalgamation of Tibetan and British cultures. The peaceful monasteries dotting McLeod Ganj are just right if you are looking to meditate amidst lush green and serene environs. The nightlife here is also worth experiencing.

• Best Places to Visit in McLeod Ganj: Tsuglagkhang Complex, Kareri Dal Lake, St. John in the Wilderness, Tushita Meditation Centre, Kalachakra Temple, Tibetan Mini Market, Kangra Fort
• Things to Do in McLeod Ganj: Learning about Tibetan culture at Namgyal Monastery, trekking and camping, exploring bars and cafes, buying Tibetan handicrafts, singing bowls and carpets, relishing delectable Tibetan cuisine
• Best Time to Visit: March to June
• How to Reach:
  • Nearest Airport: Kangra Airport (18 km)
  • Nearest Train Station: Pathankot Junction (90 km)

4. Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh

Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh| #4 of 20 Hill Stations in India

A wonderful retreat in the lap of the stunning Himalayas, Dalhousie is known for snow-capped mountains, pine-clad valleys, gorgeous landscapes and gurgling waterfalls. The valley also boasts a rich colonial past as it was a popular summer destination among the British. In fact, you can still come across beautiful Victorian-era architecture here. Khajjiar, a small and beautiful town, 20 km from Dalhousie, is a must-visit too.

• Best Places to Visit in Dalhousie: Panchpula, Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, Satdhara Falls, Chamera Lake, St. John’s Church, Rock Garden, Chamunda Devi Temple, Chamba
• Things to Do in Dalhousie: Trekking to Ganji Pahari, paragliding at Khajjiar, river rafting and river crossing on Rivers Saal and Ravi, shopping at Indo-Tibetan Market, paying respects at the ancient Laxmi Narayan Temple
• Best Time to Visit: March to May
• How to Reach:
  • Nearest Airport: Pathankot Airport (87 km), Kangra Airport (108 km)
  • Nearest Train Station: Pathankot Junction (82 km)

5. Shillong, Meghalaya

Shillong, Meghalaya | #5 of 20 Hill Stations in India

A serene hill station with beautiful weather and scenic locations, Shillong is ideal to beat the summer heat and relax in the lap of nature. Rolling hills, gently swaying pine trees, crystal clear lakes, gorgeous waterfalls and cosy cafes add a distinctive charm to the town and attract tourists from far and near. The beauty of this hill station is such that it was nicknamed the Scotland of the East by the British. Don Bosco Museum is a must-visit here if you are eager to know about the culture and heritage of the seven North-Eastern states.

• Best Places to Visit in Shillong: Umiam Lake, Ward’s Lake, Elephant Falls, Nohkalikai Falls, Lady Hydari Park, Shillong Gold Course, Ka Phan Nonglait Park, Butterfly Museum
• Things to Do in Shillong: Visiting parks and waterfalls, trying the local cuisine, exploring museums, shopping for souvenirs
• Best Time to Visit: March to June
• How to Reach:
  • Nearest Airport: Guwahati’s Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (115 km)
  • Nearest Train Station: Guwahati Railway Station (96 km)

6. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand

Mussoorie, Uttarakhand | #6 of 20 Hill Stations in India

Located 34 km from Dehradun, Mussoorie is a picturesque hill station that promises a pleasant climate and abundant natural beauty. The town is surrounded by Shivalik Ranges and Doon Valley and is one of the most beautiful places to visit in India. Mussoorie, which is popularly known as the Queen of the Hills, was once a popular summer retreat for the British. And the quaint churches and hotels here are a wonderful reminder of Mussoorie’s colonial past.

• Best Places to Visit in Mussoorie: Mall Road, Kempty Falls, Dalai Hills, Gun Hill, Jharipani Falls, Cloud’s End, Jwala Devi Temple, Benog Wildlife Sanctuary, Lake Mist
• Things to Do in Mussoorie: Planning a trip to Landour town, enjoying panoramic views from Lal Tibba, trying local cuisine, trekking, paragliding, rock climbing and white-water rafting
• Best Time to Visit: April to June
• How to Reach:
  • Nearest Airport: Dehradun’s Jolly Grant International Airport (61 km)
  • Nearest Train Station: Dehradun Railway Station (34 km)

7. Auli, Uttarakhand

Auli, Uttarakhand | #7 of 20 Hill Stations in India

The Garhwal region of Uttarakhand is peppered with many beautiful hill stations and Auli is one of them. Located at a height of 2909 m above sea level, Auli is a popular skiing destination in India. Thanks to snow-laden slopes and multiple ski resorts, this hill station attracts nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts in droves. Auli has many places of religious and historic importance as well. The higher slopes here offer mesmerizing views of some important Himalayan peaks, like Nanda Devi, Mana Parvat, Dunagiri, and Kamet.

• Best Places to Visit in Auli: Trishul Peak, Joshimath, Chenab Lake, Hanuman Temple, Nanda Devi National Park
• Things to Do in Auli: Trekking to Gurson Bugyal and Kwani Bugyal, camping and birdwatching, taking a cable car ride from Joshimath to Auli
• Best Time to Visit: November to March
• How to Reach:
  • Nearest Airport: Dehradun’s Jolly Grant International Airport (272 km)
  • Nearest Train Station: Haridwar Railway Station (273 km)

8. Nainital, Uttarakhand

Nainital, Uttarakhand | #8 of 20 Hill Stations in India

Situated at an elevation of 2084 m above sea level, Nainital is a beautiful hill resort in Uttarakhand’s Kumaon region. Thanks to its proximity to Dehradun and Delhi, this hill station is one of the most frequented places in North India. Boasting scenic landscapes, pleasant weather, and a peaceful environment, Nainital plays the perfect host to those looking to spend time amidst nature, away from the scorching heat of plains. From boating on Naini Lake to paying your respects at Naina Devi Temple, there are plenty of things to do in this quaint little hill station. Nainital has many vantage points and trekking trails as well.

• Best Places to Visit in Nainital: Tiffin Top, Mall Road, Kainchi Dham, Hanuman Garhi Temple, Cave Garden, Khurpa Taal, High Altitude Zoo, Kilbury Bird Sanctuary
• Things to Do in Nainital: Taking a stroll at Tandi Sadak, trekking, boating, and horse riding, taking a ropeway ride, shopping for local souvenirs at Tibetan and Bhotia Market
• Best Time to Visit: March to June
• How to Reach:
  • Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (59 km)
  • Nearest Train Station: Kathgodam Railway Station (26 km)

9. Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir

Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir | #9 of 20 Hill Stations in India

Popularly known as Paradise on Earth, Venice of the East and the City of Lakes, Srinagar is undoubtedly the most beautiful hill station in India. It is situated in the heart of the Kashmir valley, at an elevation of about 1585 m above sea level. Boasting unmatched natural beauty and serenity, Srinagar is a treat for your eyes and soul. From enjoying the mesmerizing views of snow-capped mountains, lush valleys and meadows to taking a shikhara ride on Dal Lake and exploring Tulip Garden, you can do so much in Srinagar!

• Best Places to Visit in Srinagar: Dal Lake, Shalimar Bagh Mughal Garden, Pari Mahal, Shankaracharya Temple, Chashma Shahi Garden, Jama Masjid, Zero Bridge, Aru Valley
• Things to Do in Srinagar: Exploring different gardens, shopping for Kashmiri shawls, woollens and dry fruits at Lal Chowk Market, trying Kashmiri delicacies and apples, visiting Pahalgam, Gulmarg and Sonmarg
• Best Time to Visit: April to September
• How to Reach:
  • Nearest Airport: Srinagar Airport
  • Nearest Train Station: Srinagar Railway Station

10. Leh-Ladakh, Jammu & Ladakh

Leh-Ladakh, Jammu & Ladakh | #10 of 20 Hill Stations in India

Known for dramatic landscapes, meandering rivers, Buddhist monasteries, cosy cafes and tons of adventure activities, Leh-Ladakh is one of the most unique and amazing places in India. The hill station lies at an altitude of 3500 m and is famous for featuring the highest motorable road in the world. What’s more, the world’s highest saltwater lake, Pangong Tso Lake, is also in Ladakh. Apart from its natural beauty, the place is famous for its rich culture, delectable cuisine, high-altitude trekking and lake-side camping. If you are a shutterbug, do keep your camera handy as the place offers many landscape photography opportunities.

• Best Places to Visit in Leh Ladakh: Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Hall of Fame, Thiksey Monastery, Gurudwara Pathar Sahib
• Things to Do in Leh Ladakh: Camping near Pangong Tso Lake, camel safari at Nubra Valley, exploring monasteries, high-altitude trekking
• Best Time to Visit: April to June
• How to Reach:
  • Nearest Airport: Leh’s Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport
  • Nearest Train Station: Jammu Tawi Railway Station (702 km)

11. Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir

Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir | #11 of 20 Hill Stations in India

A beautiful town situated at 2650 m above sea level, Gulmarg is known for its snow-covered mountains, meadows of flowers, evergreen valleys and deep ravines. This charming destination attracts different types of travellers, especially honeymooners looking to spend quality time in natural environs. Being a popular skiing destination, Gulmarg is frequented by adventure seekers as well. If you are looking to give your adrenaline a boost, try trekking, mountaineering and snowboarding here.

• Best Places to Visit in Gulmarg: Gulmarg Golf Course, Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve, Drung Waterfall, Strawberry Valley, Children’s Park, Maharani Temple
• Things to Do in Gulmarg: Enjoying gondola ride, trekking to Alpather Lake, picnicking and camping at Ningle Nallah, taking a pony ride at Khilanmarg, trying the local cuisine
• Best Time to Visit: April to June
• How to Reach:
  • Nearest Airport: Srinagar Airport (56 km)
  • Nearest Train Station: Srinagar Railway Station (60 km)

12. Ooty, Tamil Nadu

Ooty, Tamil Nadu | #12 of 20 Hill Stations in India

Nestled in Nilgiri Hills and known for its verdant scenic beauty, Ooty is a perfect retreat for city dwellers. The hill station is known for its colorful botanical gardens, serene lakes, lush tea gardens and cosy cottages. Ooty was a popular summer destination for the British and you can still see some lovely colonial architectural gems. To enjoy the best views of the valley and mountains, you must take a ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway – the steepest track in Asia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Best Places to Visit in Ooty: Ooty Lake, Emerald Lake, Ooty Rose Garden, Ooty Botanical Gardens, Dolphin’s Nose, Kalhatti Falls, Tiger Hill, Tea Museum
• Things to Do in Ooty: Exploring parks and gardens, camping, fishing and rafting near Avalanche Lake
• Best Time to Visit: March to June
• How to Reach:
  • Nearest Airport: Coimbatore International Airport (87 km)
  • Nearest Train Station: Mettupalayam Railway Station (51 km)

13. Darjeeling, West Bengal

Darjeeling, West Bengal | #13 of 20 Hill Stations in India

A prized jewel in the Himalayan Range, Darjeeling is the perfect getaway for nature lovers and honeymooners. Offering stunning views of the world’s third-highest peak – Kanchenjunga, Darjeeling is a favourite among summer travellers. It is surrounded by emerald-green slopes of tea plantations and home to some beautiful botanical gardens, monasteries, parks and vantage points.

• Best Places to Visit in Darjeeling: Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Nightingale Park, Rock Garden, Singalila National Park, Peace Pagoda, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Happy Valley Tea Estate
• Things to Do in Darjeeling: Enjoying the toy train ride, taking a ride on the ropeway, exploring tea gardens and monasteries, trekking and river rafting
• Best Time to Visit: April to June
• How to Reach:
  • Nearest Airport: Bagdogra International Airport (70 km)
  • Nearest Train Station: New Jalpaiguri Junction (73 km)

14. Gangtok, Sikkim

Gangtok, Sikkim | #14 of 20 Hill Stations in India

There’s nothing better than spending a few days in a clean, peaceful and natural environment, away from the din of city life. And that is exactly what Gangtok offers! A small and charming hill station in Sikkim, Gangtok is known for its scenic beauty, fresh air and serene surroundings. It boasts many natural and manmade attractions, like lakes, waterfalls and Buddhist monasteries, and is a wonderful destination for a laidback vacation. Nathula Pass and Tsomgo Lake are counted among the most popular attractions here.

• Best Places to Visit in Gangtok: Ban Jhakri Falls Park, Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden, Ganesh Tok Temple, Gangtok Ropeway, Sikkim Himalayan Zoological Park, M.G. Marg, Seven Sister Waterfall
• Things to Do in Gangtok: Visiting Tiger Hill for mesmerizing views, paying respects at temples and monasteries, relishing the local cuisine, trekking, mountain biking, river rafting, riding cable car rides and going on yak safari
• Best Time to Visit: March to June; September to October
• How to Reach:
  • Nearest Airport: Pakyong Airport (27 km); Bagdogra International Airport (124 km)
  • Nearest Train Station: New Jalpaiguri Junction (118 km)

15. Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra

Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra | #15 of 20 Hill Stations in India

Surrounded by the Western Ghats and dotted with dense forests, strawberry farms, rivers and waterfalls, Mahabaleshwar is a wonderful place for a rejuvenating vacation. This hill station is located at an elevation of 1353 m and has many amazing trekking and hiking trails if you are up for it. From seeking blessings at ancient temples and trekking to Pratapgarh Fort to boating on Venna Lake and enjoying nature photography, there are many amazing things to do in Mahabaleshwar.

• Best Places to Visit in Mahabaleshwar: Elephant’s Head Point, Chinaman’s Falls, Dhobi Waterfall, Arthur’s Seat, Wilson Point, Mahabaleshwar Temple, KrishnaBai Mandir, Lingmala Falls
• Things to Do in Mahabaleshwar: Enjoying mesmerising views from different vantage points, trying delicious berries, jams and jellies at Mapro Garden, visiting Panchgani, boating, trekking and photography
• Best Time to Visit: March to June
• How to Reach:
  • Nearest Airport: Pune International Airport (130 km)
  • Nearest Train Station: Wathar Railway Station (64 km)

16. Lonavala, Maharashtra

Lonavala, Maharashtra | #16 of 20 Hill Stations in India

Sandwiched between Mumbai and Pune, Lonavala is one of the most popular hill stations in Maharashtra. This tranquil hill station is nestled in the Sahyadri mountain range and is a delight to visit around the year. However, Lonavala exudes a different charm during the monsoon season with gushing waterfalls and lush greenery all around. The hill station also has some amazing lakes, caves, forts and vantage points that are worth visiting. When in Lonavala, you must try some chikkis and fudges as well.

• Best Places to Visit in Lonavala: Tiger’s Leap, Rajmachi Fort, Aamby Valley, Karla Caves, Bhaja Caves, Lohagad Fort, Bhushi Dam, Sunil’s Celebrity Wax Museum, Visapur Fort, Tikona Fort, Reverse Waterfall
• Things to Do in Lonavala: Paying respects at Bhairavnath Temple and Narayani Dham Temple, picnicking at Lonavala Lake, trekking, hiking and bungee jumping, spending some time near waterfalls
• Best Time to Visit: October to May
• How to Reach:
  • Nearest Airport: Pune International Airport (70 km), Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (93 km)
  • Nearest Train Station: Lonavala Railway Station (2 km)

17. Coorg, Karnataka

Coorg, Karnataka | #17 of 20 Hill Stations in India

Poised on the slopes of the Western Ghats and shrouded in lush greenery, Coorg is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. This hill station is one of the best places for a relaxing and rejuvenating vacation in the southern region. Vast expanses of coffee and spice plantations, beautiful orchards and paddy fields add to the natural beauty here and make Coorg a sight to behold. Coorg is also home to some beautiful lakes, waterfalls, temples, monasteries, forts and trekking trails – all worth exploring.

• Best Places to Visit in Coorg: Raja’s Seat, Abbey Falls, Namdroling Monastery, Iruppu Falls, Talakaveri, Madikeri Fort, Omkareshwara Temple, Honnamana Kere Lake, Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary
• Things to Do in Coorg: River rafting on Barapole River, trekking to Pushpagiri, Brahmagiri and Tadiandamol Peak, taking a jeep safari at Mandalpatti, quad biking amidst coffee plantations, going for an ayurvedic massage
• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• How to Reach:
  • Nearest Airport: Mangalore Airport (143 km); Bangalore Airport (242 km)
  • Nearest Train Station: Mysuru Junction (117 km)

18. Chikmagalur, Karnataka

Chikmagalur, Karnataka | #17 of 20 Hill Stations in India

Chikmagalur, the Coffee Land of Karnataka, is one of the most beautiful and delightful hill stations you can visit. The place is peppered with coffee plantations. In fact, the moment you enter Chikmagalur, you are sure to get a subtle whiff of fresh coffee beans in the air. With lush green hills, gurgling waterfalls, picturesque walking and trekking trails and wildlife sanctuaries, the hill station is steeped in natural beauty and splendour. Chikmagalur enjoys a cool and pleasant climate throughout the year and is the perfect destination for different types of travellers.

• Best Places to Visit in Chikmagalur: Hanumana Gundi Falls, Hebbe Falls, Kallathigiri Falls, Coffee Museum, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, Kodandarama Temple, Hirekolale Lake, Mahatma Gandhi Park
• Things to Do in Chikmagalur: Trekking to Mullayanagiri Peak, rafting on Bhadra River, exploring coffee plantations, buying exquisite varieties of coffee beans, visiting Kemmanagundi hill station
• Best Time to Visit:
• How to Reach:
  • Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport (158 km)
  • Nearest Train Station: Kadur Junction (39 km)

19. Munnar, Kerala

Munnar, Kerala | #19 of 20 Hill Stations in India

Situated in the Western Ghats at an altitude of 1532 m above sea level, Munnar is what relaxing vacations are made of. Rolling hills, verdant tea and coffee plantations, natural viewpoints, milky-white waterfalls, trekking trails – all add a unique charm to Munnar and make it a perfect escapade from busy urban life. You can go for a variety of adventure activities here as well, such as rock climbing, trekking, paragliding and mountain biking.

• Best Places to Visit in Munnar: Mattupetty Dam, Attukad Waterfalls, Eravikulam National Park, Tata Tea Museum, Dream Land Fun and Adventure, Rose Garden
• Things to Do in Munnar: Boating on Kundala Dam Lake, going for a night safari at Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, exploring tea plantations, enjoying panoramic views from Top Station, bike riding, skating and cycling at Blossom International Park, trying ayurvedic massages
• Best Time to Visit: November to February
• How to Reach:
  • Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (109 km)
  • Nearest Train Station: Udumalaippettai Railway Station (85 km); Angamaly Railway Station (109 km)

 20. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu | #20 of 20 Hill Stations in India

Nestled in Palani Hills and perched at an altitude of 2133 m above sea level, Kodaikanal is one of the top summer destinations for many reasons. The natural surroundings coupled with pleasant weather conditions make this hill station a popular holiday destination. Kodaikanal is dotted with beautiful parks, lakes, waterfalls, hills and forests. And if you are seeking adventure, you can indulge in activities such as trekking, rock climbing and river rafting.

• Best Places to Visit in Kodaikanal: Kodaikanal Lake, Bryant Park, Bear Shola Falls, Silver Cascade Falls, Thalaiyar Falls, Pillar Rocks
• Things to Do in Kodaikanal: Birdwatching at Berijam Lake, enjoying a boat ride on Kodaikanal Lake, cycling at Coakers Walk, trekking to Dolphin’s Nose, paying respects at the temples
• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• How to Reach:
  • Nearest Airport: Madurai Airport (134 km); Coimbatore International Airport (178 km)
  • Nearest Train Station: Kodaikanal Road Train Station (79 km)

So, what are you waiting for? The hill stations listed above are just what you need to soothe your soul, get relief from the summer heat, admire nature’s virgin beauty, and embrace adventure. Just remember to book your flight or train tickets and hotel room in advance, so that you can grab the best deal.