Top Hill Stations in India – Where the Mountains Call: Best Hill Getaways in India

India is home to many stunning hill stations, each offering unique experiences. Here are some of the best hill stations in India in terms of natural beauty, climate, and tourist attractions:

1. Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Why it’s famous: Snow-capped mountains, adventure sports, and scenic beauty.
Top attractions: Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, Hidimba Devi Temple, paragliding, skiing.
Best time to visit: October to June.

2. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

Why it’s famous: Colonial architecture, mall road, and pleasant weather.
Top attractions: The Ridge, Jakhoo Temple, Kufri, toy train ride.
Best time to visit: March to June and December for snowfall.

3. Darjeeling, West Bengal

Why it’s famous: Tea gardens, views of Mount Kanchenjunga, and toy train.
Top attractions: Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, tea estates.
Best time to visit: March to May and October to November.

4. Ooty (Udhagamandalam), Tamil Nadu

Why it’s famous: Lush green hills, botanical gardens, and cool weather.
Top attractions: Ooty Lake, Doddabetta Peak, tea plantations, Nilgiri Mountain Railway.
Best time to visit: April to June and September to November.

5. Munnar, Kerala

Why it’s famous: Tea plantations, misty hills, and wildlife.
Top attractions: Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, Anamudi Peak.
Best time to visit: September to March.

6. Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir

Why it’s famous: Snow sports, scenic beauty, and meadows.
Top attractions: Gondola ride, skiing, snowboarding, Apharwat Peak.
Best time to visit: December to March for snow, May to September for greenery.

7. Nainital, Uttarakhand

Why it’s famous: Naini Lake, scenic hills, and boating.
Top attractions: Naini Lake, Snow View Point, Naina Devi Temple.
Best time to visit: March to June and September to November.

8. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand

Why it’s famous: Known as the “Queen of the Hills”, it’s popular for its colonial charm and views of the Himalayas.
Top attractions: Kempty Falls, Gun Hill, Mall Road, Camel’s Back Road.
Best time to visit: March to June and September to November.

9. Mount Abu, Rajasthan

Why it’s famous: The only hill station in the desert state of Rajasthan.
Top attractions: Nakki Lake, Dilwara Temples, Sunset Point, Guru Shikhar.
Best time to visit: November to March.

10. Auli, Uttarakhand

Why it’s famous: A skiing destination with spectacular views of snow-covered peaks.
Top attractions: Skiing, Auli Ropeway, Gurso Bugyal, Joshimath.
Best time to visit: December to February (for snow), April to June (for trekking).

11. Coorg (Kodagu), Karnataka

Why it’s famous: Coffee plantations, misty hills, and a serene atmosphere.
Top attractions: Abbey Falls, Dubare Elephant Camp, Raja’s Seat, coffee estates.
Best time to visit: October to March.

12. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

Why it’s famous: Peaceful lake, waterfalls, and a romantic vibe.
Top attractions: Kodaikanal Lake, Coaker’s Walk, Pillar Rocks, Bryant Park.
Best time to visit: April to June and September to October.

13. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh

Why it’s famous: Rich Buddhist culture, monasteries, and breathtaking Himalayan views.
Top attractions: Tawang Monastery, Sela Pass, Madhuri Lake.
Best time to visit: March to October.

14. Lonavala & Khandala, Maharashtra

Why they’re famous: Quick getaways from Mumbai and Pune, especially beautiful during monsoon.
Top attractions: Bhushi Dam, Tiger’s Leap, Karla Caves.
Best time to visit: June to September (monsoon magic).

15. Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh

Why it’s famous: Known as the “Queen of Satpura,” it’s the only hill station in Madhya Pradesh.
Top attractions: Bee Falls, Jata Shankar Caves, Dhupgarh (highest point in MP).
Best time to visit: October to June.

16. Shillong, Meghalaya

Why it’s famous: Often called the “Scotland of the East”, it’s known for waterfalls, lakes, and a cool vibe.
Top attractions: Umiam Lake, Elephant Falls, Shillong Peak, Ward’s Lake.
Best time to visit: September to May.

17. Gangtok, Sikkim

Why it’s famous: A mix of urban charm and natural beauty, plus access to Buddhist monasteries and snow peaks.
Top attractions: MG Road, Nathula Pass, Rumtek Monastery, Tsomgo Lake.
Best time to visit: March to June, October to December.

18. Kalimpong, West Bengal

Why it’s famous: Peaceful alternative to Darjeeling with scenic views and monasteries.
Top attractions: Deolo Hill, Durpin Monastery, flower nurseries.
Best time to visit: March to May and September to November.

19. Lansdowne, Uttarakhand

Why it’s famous: A quiet, less-touristy hill station with pine forests and colonial history.
Top attractions: Bhulla Lake, Tip-in-Top, War Memorial.
Best time to visit: Throughout the year (avoid peak monsoon).

20. Chail, Himachal Pradesh

Why it’s famous: A peaceful alternative to crowded Shimla, known for the world’s highest cricket ground.
Top attractions: Chail Palace, Kali Ka Tibba, cricket ground.
Best time to visit: March to June and September to November.

21. Yercaud, Tamil Nadu

Why it’s famous: A lesser-known hill station in the Shevaroy Hills, perfect for a relaxed trip.
Top attractions: Yercaud Lake, Pagoda Point, Shevaroy Temple.
Best time to visit: October to June.

22. Valparai, Tamil Nadu

Why it’s famous: Serene tea estates, wildlife sightings, and forest trails.
Top attractions: Aliyar Dam, Monkey Falls, tea plantations, wildlife sanctuary.
Best time to visit: September to March.

23. Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh

Why it’s famous: A UNESCO World Heritage site known for tribal culture and music festivals.
Top attractions: Ziro Valley, Talley Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, Ziro Music Festival.
Best time to visit: March to October.

24. Coonoor, Tamil Nadu

Why it’s famous: Quieter and greener than Ooty, perfect for nature lovers.
Top attractions: Sim’s Park, Dolphin’s Nose, toy train ride to Ooty.
Best time to visit: October to March.

25. Pelling, Sikkim

Why it’s famous: Gorgeous views of the Kanchenjunga range and peaceful monasteries.
Top attractions: Pemayangtse Monastery, Sky Walk, Rabdentse Ruins.
Best time to visit: September to May.

You’re on a roll! Love that you’re exploring deep into India’s hill station treasures — here are more lesser-known, peaceful, and picturesque hill stations you might enjoy discovering:

26. Tirthan Valley, Himachal Pradesh

Why it’s famous: Untouched nature, river views, and tranquil atmosphere.
Top attractions: Great Himalayan National Park, trout fishing, Jalori Pass.
Best time to visit: March to June, September to November.

27. Chakrata, Uttarakhand

Why it’s famous: A secluded cantonment town surrounded by forests and waterfalls.
Top attractions: Tiger Falls, Deoban, Budher Caves.
Best time to visit: March to June and September to November.

28. Shoja, Himachal Pradesh

Why it’s famous: A hidden hamlet near Jalori Pass with breathtaking sunsets and quiet vibes.
Top attractions: Waterfall Point, Serolsar Lake, Jalori Pass.
Best time to visit: April to June, September to October.

29. Majuli Island (with hill-like vibes), Assam

Why it’s famous: World’s largest river island, serene with cultural richness.
Top attractions: Satras (monasteries), rural walks, island life.
Best time to visit: October to March.

30. Araku Valley, Andhra Pradesh

Why it’s famous: Coffee plantations, tribal culture, and scenic train journeys.
Top attractions: Borra Caves, Padmapuram Gardens, Araku Coffee Museum.
Best time to visit: October to March.

31. Lava & Loleygaon, West Bengal

Why they’re famous: Serene twin hill villages near Kalimpong with forests and panoramic views.
Top attractions: Canopy walk, Neora Valley National Park.
Best time to visit: October to May.

32. Daringbadi, Odisha

Why it’s famous: Known as the “Kashmir of Odisha”, this hill station gets frost in winter.
Top attractions: Pine forests, coffee gardens, waterfalls.
Best time to visit: October to February.

33. Agumbe, Karnataka

Why it’s famous: Rainforest vibes, king cobra sightings, and ancient charm.
Top attractions: Sunset Point, waterfalls, Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary.
Best time to visit: November to February.

34. Chopta, Uttarakhand

Why it’s famous: Known as the “Mini Switzerland of India”, great for trekking and snow.
Top attractions: Tungnath Temple, Chandrashila Peak, Deoriatal Lake.
Best time to visit: March to May and December to February for snow.

35. Ponmudi, Kerala

Why it’s famous: Close to Thiruvananthapuram, ideal for a peaceful mountain drive.
Top attractions: Golden Peak, tea gardens, Meenmutty Falls.
Best time to visit: October to March.

36. Kotagiri, Tamil Nadu

Why it’s famous: One of the oldest hill stations in the Nilgiris, quieter than Ooty.
Top attractions: Catherine Falls, Elk Falls, Longwood Shola.
Best time to visit: October to May.

37. Panhala, Maharashtra

Why it’s famous: Historical charm meets cool breezes and scenic views.
Top attractions: Panhala Fort, Parashar Caves, Tabak Udyan.
Best time to visit: October to March.

38. Saputara, Gujarat

Why it’s famous: Gujarat’s only hill station with a beautiful lake and tribal art.
Top attractions: Saputara Lake, Artist Village, Sunset Point.
Best time to visit: October to February.

39. Haflong, Assam

Why it’s famous: Assam’s only hill station, known for lakes, orchids, and culture.
Top attractions: Haflong Lake, Jatinga (famous for bird mystery), Maibong.
Best time to visit: October to April.

40. Ranikhet, Uttarakhand

Why it’s famous: Peaceful army town with panoramic Himalayan views.
Top attractions: Jhula Devi Temple, Chaubatia Gardens, Golf Course.
Best time to visit: March to June and September to November.

41. Patnitop, Jammu

Why it’s famous: Pine forests, snow in winter, and a scenic spot near Vaishno Devi.
Top attractions: Nathatop, paragliding, skiing, Sanasar.
Best time to visit: May to October (or Dec-Jan for snow).

42. Netarhat, Jharkhand

Why it’s famous: Known as the “Queen of Chotanagpur”, with amazing sunrises and sunsets.
Top attractions: Magnolia Point, Upper Ghaghri Falls, Netarhat Dam.
Best time to visit: October to March.

43. Yelagiri, Tamil Nadu

Why it’s famous: A small, family-friendly hill station great for nature walks.
Top attractions: Yelagiri Lake, Swamimalai Hills, Adventure Sports.
Best time to visit: November to February.

44. Tawangchu Valley (near Tawang), Arunachal Pradesh

Why it’s famous: Hidden gem with pristine river valleys, forested trails, and peaceful stays.
Top attractions: Tawangchu River, forest treks, Monpa culture.
Best time to visit: March to October.

45. Kurseong, West Bengal

Why it’s famous: A quieter, misty town near Darjeeling known for white orchids.
Top attractions: Dow Hill, Eagle’s Crag, tea gardens.
Best time to visit: April to June, September to November.

46. Kanatal, Uttarakhand

Why it’s famous: A serene alternative to Mussoorie, perfect for camping and stargazing.
Top attractions: Surkanda Devi Temple, Tehri Lake, jungle safaris.
Best time to visit: March to June, September to November.

47. Kausani, Uttarakhand

Why it’s famous: Panoramic views of Himalayan peaks like Trishul and Nanda Devi.
Top attractions: Anashakti Ashram, Rudradhari Falls, tea estates.
Best time to visit: March to June, September to November.

48. Dhanaulti, Uttarakhand

Why it’s famous: Quiet, forested beauty with eco parks and mountain views.
Top attractions: Eco Park, Dashavatar Temple, camping.
Best time to visit: Throughout the year (best: April to June).

49. Bhaderwah, Jammu & Kashmir

Why it’s famous: Nicknamed “Mini Kashmir”, it’s all about green meadows and mountains.
Top attractions: Padri Meadows, Jai Valley, Bhaderwah Fort.
Best time to visit: May to October.

50. Chamba, Himachal Pradesh

Why it’s famous: Historic town on the Ravi River with temples, lakes, and valleys.
Top attractions: Khajjiar (mini Switzerland), Bhuri Singh Museum, Chamera Lake.
Best time to visit: March to June.

51. Mashobra, Himachal Pradesh

Why it’s famous: A quieter cousin of Shimla surrounded by cedar forests.
Top attractions: Craignano, Reserve Forest Sanctuary, apple orchards.
Best time to visit: April to June, September to November.

52. Narkanda, Himachal Pradesh

Why it’s famous: Winter skiing and summer apple orchards in a peaceful setting.
Top attractions: Hatu Peak, Tannu Jubbar Lake.
Best time to visit: December to February (for snow), April to June (for green views).

53. Peora, Uttarakhand

Why it’s famous: A peaceful, eco-friendly village with valley views and hiking trails.
Top attractions: Village walks, bird watching, views of Nanda Devi.
Best time to visit: October to May.

54. Ramgarh, Uttarakhand

Why it’s famous: Known as the “Fruit Bowl of Kumaon”, ideal for writers and nature lovers.
Top attractions: Orchards, peaceful homestays, mountain sunrise.
Best time to visit: March to May, September to November.

55. Mawlynnong, Meghalaya

Why it’s famous: Known as the cleanest village in Asia, with a peaceful vibe and skywalks.
Top attractions: Living root bridges, Sky View Tower, village tour.
Best time to visit: October to April.

56. Zuluk, Sikkim

Why it’s famous: A high-altitude village with dramatic hairpin bends and views of Kanchenjunga.
Top attractions: Thambi View Point, Nag Temple, Zuluk Loops.
Best time to visit: August to October, and January to April for snow.

57. Amarkantak, Madhya Pradesh

Why it’s famous: A spiritual hill town and the origin of the Narmada River.
Top attractions: Narmada Udgam Temple, Kapil Dhara Falls, forests.
Best time to visit: October to March.

58. Vagamon, Kerala

Why it’s famous: Rolling meadows, pine forests, and peaceful nature walks.
Top attractions: Vagamon Lake, Pine Valley, Kurisumala Ashram.
Best time to visit: March to June and September to November.

59. Binsar, Uttarakhand

Why it’s famous: A forested retreat with wildlife and panoramic Himalayan views.
Top attractions: Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, Zero Point, ancient temples.
Best time to visit: October to March.

60. Ravangla, Sikkim

Why it’s famous: A quiet town with a giant Buddha statue and monastery views.
Top attractions: Buddha Park, Ralong Monastery, Rayong View Point.
Best time to visit: March to May and September to November.

61. Lepchajagat, West Bengal

Why it’s famous: A dreamy, fog-covered forest near Darjeeling with amazing mountain views.
Top attractions: Peaceful treks, sunrise over Kanchenjunga, pine forests.
Best time to visit: October to April.

62. Chikhaldara, Maharashtra

Why it’s famous: A rare hill station in Vidarbha with lakes, coffee, and tiger reserves.
Top attractions: Gawilgarh Fort, Bhimkund, Melghat Tiger Reserve.
Best time to visit: October to June.

63. Pelling, Sikkim (worth repeating)

Why it’s famous: Unreal mountain views and peaceful monasteries.
Top attractions: Skywalk, Pemayangtse Monastery, Kanchenjunga Falls.
Best time to visit: October to May.

64. Kalpa, Himachal Pradesh

Why it’s famous: Stunning views of Kinnaur Kailash, quiet village life, and apple orchards.
Top attractions: Suicide Point, Narayan-Nagini Temple, nearby Sangla Valley.
Best time to visit: March to June and September to November.

65. Tadoba Hills (near Tadoba National Park), Maharashtra

Why it’s famous: Not a classic hill station, but offers hilly terrain, forest vibes, and tiger safaris.
Top attractions: Tiger Reserve, Tadoba Lake, nature walks.
Best time to visit: November to March.

66. Mechuka, Arunachal Pradesh

Why it’s famous: A hidden gem in the Mechuka Valley with Tibetan culture and surreal landscapes.
Top attractions: Samten Yongcha Monastery, Siyom River, hanging bridges.
Best time to visit: October to March.

67. Mandarmani Hills, West Bengal (technically coastal but with slight elevation inland)

Why it’s famous: Combines beachy breezes with hilly backdrops inland. Great for a unique twist.
Top attractions: Beach walks, local temples, quiet resorts.
Best time to visit: November to February.

68. Kolli Hills, Tamil Nadu

Why it’s famous: 70 hairpin bends, cloud-swept views, and a real hidden forest vibe.
Top attractions: Agaya Gangai Falls, Arapaleeswarar Temple, trekking trails.
Best time to visit: February to December (avoid peak monsoon).

69. Gurez Valley, Jammu & Kashmir

Why it’s famous: Remote, untouched valley near the Line of Control — raw beauty and warm people.
Top attractions: Habba Khatoon Peak, Kishanganga River, traditional Dard-Shin villages.
Best time to visit: May to September.

70. Chopta-Tungnath-Chandrashila Circuit, Uttarakhand

Why it’s famous: Spiritual trekking trail with insane Himalayan views.
Top attractions: Tungnath Temple (highest Shiva temple), Chandrashila Peak trek.
Best time to visit: April to November (snow trek possible in winter).

71. Idukki, Kerala

Why it’s famous: Lush greenery, wildlife sanctuaries, and fewer tourists than Munnar.
Top attractions: Idukki Arch Dam, Hill View Park, wildlife spotting.
Best time to visit: October to March.

72. Kila Raipur, Punjab (not a classic hill station, but a raised plateau with cool air)

Why it’s famous: For hosting the Rural Olympics – but also peaceful farms and rolling landscapes.
Top attractions: Sports festival, local culture, countryside stays.
Best time to visit: January to March.

73. Sundha Mata Hills, Rajasthan

Why it’s famous: Hill temple + panoramic desert-meets-hill views in western Rajasthan.
Top attractions: Sundha Mata Temple, ropeway, remote hilltop feel.
Best time to visit: October to March.

74. Lonar Crater (Buldhana Hills), Maharashtra

Why it’s famous: Formed by a meteor impact! Slightly elevated, quiet, and totally unique.
Top attractions: Lonar Lake, old temples, nature walks.
Best time to visit: November to March.

75. Pauri, Uttarakhand

Why it’s famous: Peaceful town with stunning views of the Gangotri group of peaks.
Top attractions: Kandoliya Temple, Kyunkaleshwar Mahadev, forest walks.
Best time to visit: March to June, September to November.

76. Chikmagalur, Karnataka

Why it’s famous: Coffee capital of India with rolling hills and waterfalls.
Top attractions: Mullayanagiri Peak, Baba Budangiri, Hebbe Falls.
Best time to visit: September to March.

77. Yercaud, Tamil Nadu

Why it’s famous: A peaceful alternative to Ooty, with colonial charm and lake views.
Top attractions: Yercaud Lake, Shevaroy Temple, Pagoda Point.
Best time to visit: October to June.

78. Madikeri (Coorg), Karnataka

Why it’s famous: Scotland of India – with coffee estates, cool air, and waterfalls.
Top attractions: Abbey Falls, Raja’s Seat, Madikeri Fort.
Best time to visit: October to May.

79. Pabbar Valley, Himachal Pradesh

Why it’s famous: Remote, beautiful, and ideal for solitude seekers.
Top attractions: Hatkoti Temple, Pabbar River, trekking and fishing.
Best time to visit: April to June and September to November.

80. Ponmudi, Kerala (yes, it’s worth a second mention!)

Why it’s famous: Golden Peak, misty hills, and fresh mountain air within driving distance of Trivandrum.
Top attractions: Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, Kallar River, Meenmutty Falls.
Best time to visit: October to March.

81. Barog, Himachal Pradesh

Why it’s famous: A quaint hill station on the Kalka–Shimla toy train route.
Top attractions: Barog Tunnel (longest on the route), pine forests, heritage hotels.
Best time to visit: March to June and September to November.

82. Rohru, Himachal Pradesh

Why it’s famous: Untouched, apple-filled valley far from tourist crowds.
Top attractions: Pabbar River, trout fishing, and scenic drives.
Best time to visit: April to June and September to November.

83. Dzukou Valley (near Kohima), Nagaland

Why it’s famous: Trekker’s dream with rare Dzukou lilies and surreal landscapes.
Top attractions: Valley trek, Japfu Peak, wildflowers.
Best time to visit: June to September (for flowers), November to March (for treks).

84. Lamayuru, Ladakh

Why it’s famous: Known for its “Moonland” terrain — otherworldly and majestic.
Top attractions: Lamayuru Monastery, moon-like landscapes, mountain passes.
Best time to visit: May to September.

85. Askot, Uttarakhand

Why it’s famous: Hidden gem near Pithoragarh with serene surroundings and snow-capped peaks.
Top attractions: Askot Sanctuary, trekking trails, Kali River views.
Best time to visit: April to June and September to November.

86. Mainpat, Chhattisgarh

Why it’s famous: Known as the “Shimla of Chhattisgarh”, with Tibetan settlements and grassy hills.
Top attractions: Tiger Point, Fish Point, Dhakpo Shedupling Monastery.
Best time to visit: October to March.

87. Tirthan Valley, Himachal Pradesh

Why it’s famous: Offbeat, peaceful valley with riverside villages and trout fishing.
Top attractions: Great Himalayan National Park, waterfalls, Seraj region hikes.
Best time to visit: March to June, and September to November.

88. Gwaldam, Uttarakhand

Why it’s famous: Small village with stunning views of Trishul and Nanda Devi.
Top attractions: Buddhist Khamba Temple, Gwaldam Lake, forest trails.
Best time to visit: April to June, September to November.

89. Aritar, Sikkim

Why it’s famous: A quiet gem in East Sikkim with a lake, monastery, and nature.
Top attractions: Lampokhari Lake, Aritar Monastery, trekking trails.
Best time to visit: March to May, October to December.

90. Valparai, Tamil Nadu

Why it’s famous: Hidden hill town in the Anamalai Hills, rich in tea estates and wildlife.
Top attractions: Sholayar Dam, Monkey Falls, Anaimalai Tiger Reserve.
Best time to visit: September to March.

91. Lava & Loleygaon, West Bengal

Why it’s famous: Twin hamlets in Kalimpong district, perfect for forest lovers.
Top attractions: Canopy Walk, Neora Valley National Park, monastery in Lava.
Best time to visit: October to April.

92. Nongstoin, Meghalaya

Why it’s famous: A quiet hill town surrounded by waterfalls and untouched nature.
Top attractions: Langshiang Falls, Weinia Falls, stone cliffs.
Best time to visit: October to April.

93. Bhimtal, Uttarakhand

Why it’s famous: A peaceful alternative to Nainital with a gorgeous lake and hills.
Top attractions: Bhimtal Lake, island aquarium, Butterfly Research Centre.
Best time to visit: March to June, September to November.

94. Pangi Valley, Himachal Pradesh

Why it’s famous: Remote and rugged, perfect for serious adventurers and bikers.
Top attractions: Sach Pass, Hudan Bhatori, ancient temples.
Best time to visit: June to October.

95. Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh

Why it’s famous: Home to the Apatani tribe and famous for the Ziro Music Festival.
Top attractions: Pine forests, Apatani villages, Dolo Mando trek.
Best time to visit: March to October.