India is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations. One of the major tenets of Indian society is “Atithi Devo Bhava,” which translates as “Guests are equal to God,” making it a popular tourism destination for both Indians and tourists. India, a place of enormous diversity, offers an abundance of vacation options. Aside from breathtaking beaches, deserts, and woods, India is home to numerous hill stations.
The terrain of India is lined with mountain ranges such as the Himalayas, Vindhyas, and Aravallis, each having its own distinct beauty. Hill stations have been in our country since the time of British administration. To get away from the oppressive temperatures and humidity of the low-lying regions, the British established hill stations, where they frequently vacationed. Even when the British left, the tradition continued popular, and many additional hill stations sprouted up around the country. If you’re planning a trip to the hills, you might be unsure about which hill station to pay a visit to. Relax, since we’re here to assist you in making your decision.
Here is a list of some of the best hill stations in India:
1.Nainital, Uttarakhand
Nainital, a hill station jewel in Uttarakhand’s lengthy list of tourist spots, is called after the region’s eye-shaped lake, Naini Lake.
The small streets of the marketplaces, the variety of adventure activities, and the stunning views will enthrall you during your visit. The area also has various beautiful spots and is one of the ideal hill stations for both a family vacation and a honeymoon.
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Major Tourist Attractions in Nainital:
- Naini Lake
- Naina Devi Temple
- Mall Road
- Raj Bhawan
- Gurney House
- Govind Ballabh Pant Zoo
- Tiffin Top
- Astronomical Observatory
- Snow View Point
- Eco Cave Garden
- Himalayan Botanical Garden
- Himalaya Mini Golf
Things that you will enjoy doing in Nainital:
- Boating in Naini Lake
- Shopping in Tibetan Market
- Skating in Zoomland
- Cable Car Ride to Snow Viewpoint
- Vantage Point to Overlook at Valley from Tiffin Top
- Short Hike to China Peak
- Golfing at Mini Golf Course
- Stroll on the Mall Road
How to Get to Nainital?
The closest train stop to Nainital is in Kathgodam, about 36 kilometers away. To get to Nainital, take a ride in a taxi from Kathgodam. There are other buses that run connecting Haldwani (40 km) and Nainital. They are, however, mostly congested. Buses run from Delhi along with other major cities in North India to Haldwani.
Best Time to See Snowfall in Nainital
December to February
2.Munnar, Kerala
You might be surprised to learn that there are numerous hill stations in southern India. Munnar is known as the “Kashmir of South India” and is located in the state of Kerala. Beautiful waterfalls, tea plantations, coffee gardens, and pristine greenery can be found in the hill station. A hike across Eravikulam National Park, where you may see the Nilgiri tahr, is a must.
If you visit Munnar at the correct time of year, you can also enjoy the breathtaking sight of Neelakurinji flowers, which blooms just once every twelve years.
Major Attractions for Tourist in Munnar
- Echo Point
- Atukkad Waterfalls
- Pothamedu Viewpoint
- Photo Point
- Tata Tea or KDHP Museum
- Chinnakanal Waterfalls
- Mattupetty Dam
- Periyar National Park
Things that you will enjoy doing in Munnar
- Tree House Stay
- Tea Estate Tour
- Hiking & Trekking
- Wildlife Sighting
- Boating
- Ayurveda Spa
How to Get to Munnar?
Kochi (126 km) has the nearest train station and airport to Munnar. To get to Munnar, hire a cab from Kochi.
Best time to go to Munnar
 April and May
3.Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh
Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh is residence to the revered Dalai Lama, as well as being one of the top mountain locations in India for its quiet, seclusion, and center of Tibetan Buddhist culture. This Himachal holiday resort is one of the most renowned hill stations in India, surrounded by steep mountains and rich deodar and cedar woods.
It is divided into two halves, Dharamshala and Mcleodganj, and is divided by a settlement called Ganchen Kyishong, and is located at an elevation of roughly 1,487m in the Kangra Valley. For summer vacations, a great number of travelers, as well as family vacationers, flock here. However, many people travel throughout the winter to experience the snowfall to these hill stations.
Major Tourist Attractions in Dharamshala
- Dharamshala Cricket Stadium
- Naam Art Gallery
- Monolithic Rock Temples
- Bhagsu Waterfall
- Bhagsunag Temple
- Kangra Museum
- Kunal Pathri Temple
- Chamunda Temple
- Dal Lake
- Mcleodganj
- Namgyal Monastery
- Triund Hill
- Naddi View Point
Top Things to Do in Dharamshala
- Trekking
- Shopping
How Do I Get to Dharamshala?
Dharamshala is well-connected by road to cities like as Delhi, Ambala, and Chandigarh. There are daily buses from these locations to Dharamshala.
4.Gulmarg, Kashmir
Gulmarg, popularly known as the Meadow of Flowers, is a mythical paradise tucked away in Kashmir’s gorgeous valley. It is a major skiing resort and has one of Asia’s longest cable car installations, making it unquestionably one of the finest hill stations for sightseeing in India.
Gulmarg is a sanctuary for anyone looking for an adrenaline rush through wintertime activities like as skiing, heli-skiing, and snowboarding. Aside from winter adventure activities, one can also enjoy trekking and golfing.
Major Tourist Attractions in Gulmarg
- Gulmarg Gondola
- Golf Course
- Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve
- Baba Reshi Shrine
- Shark Fin
- Kongdori
- Maharani Temple
- St Mary’s Church
Top Things to Do in Gulmarg
- Skiing
- Snowboarding
- Take a Ride on Gulmarg Gondola
- Golfing
- Explore wildlife at Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve
- Picnic at Ningle Nallah
How to Get to Gulmarg?
Gulmarg is easily accessible by road to Srinagar, which is roughly 50 kilometers distant and has an airport which links it to other Indian towns. Cabs to Gulmarg are easily accessible from Srinagar.
Best Time to See Snowfall in Gulmarg
November to February
5.Auli, Uttarakhand
Auli could be described in a single word: stunning! This hill station among all hill stations in India is ideal for enjoying your summer vacation not only because of its beauty, but also because of the options for adventure-based activities.
It attracts adventure seekers throughout the winter season and, like Gulmarg, gives the opportunity to enjoy skiing, that is thought to be the best in terms of gradient. Trekking is also popular, with Auli providing as the starting point for treks like as the Kuari Pass and the Gorson Bugyal. The vista of majestic peaks such as Nanda Devi and Neelkanth adds to the adventurous retreat in Auli.
Major Attractions for Tourist in Auli
- Auli Artificial Lake
- Narsingh Temple
- Chenab Lake
- Chattarkund
- Kwani Bugyal (Trek)
- Gorson Bugyal
- Nanda Devi National Park
- Valley of Flowers
Top Things to Do in Auli
- Skiing (winter)
- Snowboarding (winter)
- Camping
- Hiking/Trekking
- Ropeway Ride
How Can I get to Auli?
The best method to get to Auli is via car. Auli is well-served by public buses that go from Rishikesh to Joshimath, located 16 kilometers away. You can alternatively take the ropeway up to Auli or travel by road by hiring a taxi.
When is the best time to see snowfall in Auli?
January through December
Conclusion:
If you are preparing to go mountaineering in India, there are certainly a few things you should keep in mind. We’ve compiled a list of some of the best spots to visit. All of these hill stations have a bit of the most breathtaking scenery hiding in their laps. Try this sport if you’re going on a trip to India and looking for some adrenaline-pumping activities!
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Written by: Anshika Patra
