INTRODUCTION
The cool, peaceful hills of India, especially during the blazing summer sun, have nothing better to do. The country has got its share of beautiful hill stations, charming ones that are just as perfect a break from the heat as from the city. Here are 10 of the best hill stations in India to chill out this summer if you want to sit back and enjoy, explore nature or have a little adventure!
1. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Shimla is a classic summer getaway that is known as the ‘Queen of Hills’. It has old colonial buildings, beautiful mountain views and places like The Ridge, Mall Road, Kufri and Jakhoo Temple, which is quite perfect for a leisure holiday.
Best time to visit: March to June
Ideal for: Families, couples, history buffs
Top 10 Hill Stations in India to Beat the Summer Heat
2. Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Manali is the place nestled in the Kullu Valley and the adventure and honeymoon spot for all. The place is surrounded by snow capped peaks and lush pine forests and is ideal for paragliding, river rafting and Hampta pass and Beas Kund treks.
Best time to visit: April to June
Ideal for: Adventure seekers, honeymooners
Top 10 Hill Stations in India to Beat the Summer Heat
3. Darjeeling, West Bengal
Darjeeling is still famous for its tea, toy train, and spectacular sunrise over the Kanchenjunga range; it is one of India’s most charming hill stations. Do not miss a ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway and the Tiger Hill.
Best time to visit: March to May
Ideal for: Tea lovers, photographers, families
Top 10 Hill Stations in India to Beat the Summer Heat
4. Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Ooty is often referred to as the ‘Queen of the Nilgiris’ because of its lush gardens, serenity of lakes and cool breeze. Must visit places are The Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Ooty Lake, Botanical Gardens, Doddabetta Peak and the like.
Best time to visit: April to June
Ideal for: Nature lovers, honeymooners
Top 10 Hill Stations in India to Beat the Summer Heat
5. Munnar, Kerala
Munnar is the green paradise with sprawling tea gardens, mist covered hills and wildlife sanctuaries situated in the Western Ghats. Since the roads in the Eravikulam National Park are winding, it is best that you visit the Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam and take a scenic drive.
Best time to visit: March to June
Ideal for: Nature enthusiasts, couples, photographers
Top 10 Hill Stations in India to Beat the Summer Heat
6. Nainital, Uttarakhand
Centered around a serene lake, Nainital offers a perfect mix of peace and playful experiences like boating, shopping at Mall Road, and enjoying the cable car ride to Snow View Point.
Best time to visit: March to June
Ideal for: Families, couples, weekend getaways
Top 10 Hill Stations in India to Beat the Summer Heat
7. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
Mussoorie is a paradise just a few hours from Dehradun and it is called the Gateway to Yamunotri and Gangotri. Go for the walk on Camel’s Back Road or visit Kempty Falls or Gun Hill to see the panoramic views.
Best time to visit: April to June
Ideal for: Families, students, solo travelers
Top 10 Hill Stations in India to Beat the Summer Heat
8. Coorg, Karnataka
Coorg (also known as Kodagu) is a luscious hill station well known for its coffee plantations, waterfalls and wildlife. Major highlights include Abbey Falls, Raja’s Seat and Dubare Elephant Camp.
Best time to visit: March to June
Ideal for: Coffee lovers, nature seekers, trekkers
Top 10 Hill Stations in India to Beat the Summer Heat
9. Mount Abu, Rajasthan
Mount Abu is Rajasthan’s only hill station offering an unexpected escape from the desert heat. Visiting the sun set point, Nakki Lake and Dilwara Temples for amazing views.
Best time to visit: April to June
Ideal for: Spiritual travelers, families
Top 10 Hill Stations in India to Beat the Summer Heat
10. Gangtok, Sikkim
Gangtok presents Buddhist culture intrinsically with natural gorgeousness. Go to Rumtek Monastery, take a ropeway ride and see the Himalayas. It also serves as a good base for Nagong Lake and Nathula pass.
Best time to visit: March to June
Ideal for: Culture lovers, adventurers
Top 10 Hill Stations in India to Beat the Summer Heat
Final Thoughts
India’s hill stations are a great place to find either serene landscapes, spiritual retreats or adrenaline pumping adventures. This summer, leave the heat behind, find refuge in one of these cool havens, and recharge, reconnect and reinvent.
So, which hill station are you escaping to this summer?