Summer in India can be unbearably hot, with temperatures soaring to extreme highs. For those looking to escape the heat, hill stations offer a perfect retreat. These scenic high-altitude destinations not only provide a much-needed respite from the sweltering weather but also boast stunning landscapes, lush greenery, and a plethora of outdoor activities. Here is MaxxFour.com’s list of the best hill stations to visit in India during summer.
Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Shimla is not only the capital of Himachal Pradesh but also one of India’s most popular hill stations. Known as the “Queen of Hills,” Shimla attracts tourists with its colonial charm, pleasant weather, and picturesque surroundings. The Mall Road and the Viceregal Lodge are some of the must-visit attractions.
How to Reach
Shimla is well-connected by road and rail. The nearest airport is in Chandigarh, about 115 kilometres away. The Kalka-Shimla toy train offers a scenic journey, and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Shimla is from March to June when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.
Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Manali is another popular hill station in Himachal Pradesh, known for its breathtaking landscapes and adventure activities. Nestled in the Kullu Valley, Manali offers attractions like the Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, etc.
How to Reach
Manali is well-connected by road and is approximately 540 kilometres from Delhi. The nearest airport is Bhuntar, about 50 kilometres away.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Manali is from April to June when the weather is comfortable and perfect for outdoor activities.
Darjeeling, West Bengal
Darjeeling, often referred to as the “Queen of the Himalayas,” is famous for its tea gardens, panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga range, and the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. Key attractions include the Tiger Hill and Batasia Loop.
How to Reach
The nearest airport to Darjeeling is Bagdogra, about 70 kilometres away. New Jalpaiguri is the nearest major railway station, from where you can take the toy train to Darjeeling.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Darjeeling is from April to June when the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear.
Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Ooty, famously known as Udhagamandalam, is a delightful hill station nestled in Tamil Nadu. Famous for its tea plantations, botanical gardens, and the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Ooty is a popular summer retreat. The Ooty Lake, Doddabetta Peak, and the Rose Garden are must-visit attractions.
How to Reach
The nearest airport to Ooty is Coimbatore, about 88 kilometres away. Mettupalayam is the nearest major railway station, where you can take the Nilgiri Mountain Railway to Ooty.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Ooty is from April to June when the weather is cool and perfect for exploring the outdoors.
Munnar, Kerala
Munnar, located in Kerala, is renowned for its lush green tea plantations, serene landscapes, and cool climate. Attractions in Munnar include the Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, Anamudi Peak, and the Tea Museum.
How to Reach
The nearest airport to Munnar is Cochin International Airport, about 110 kilometres away. Aluva is the nearest major railway station, approximately 110 kilometres from Munnar.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Munnar is from April to June when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.
Nainital, Uttarakhand
Nainital, often referred to as the “Lake District of India,” is a picturesque hill station in Uttarakhand. Surrounded by lakes and hills, Nainital offers attractions such as Naini Lake, Snow View Point, and the Eco Cave Gardens.
How to Reach
The nearest airport to Nainital is Pantnagar, about 70 kilometres away. Kathgodam is the nearest railway station, around 34 kilometres from Nainital.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Nainital is from March to June when the weather is pleasant and suitable for boating and other outdoor activities.
Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
Mussoorie, also known as the “Queen of the Hills,” is a charming hill station in Uttarakhand. Known for its colonial architecture, beautiful landscapes, and pleasant weather, Mussoorie is a favourite summer destination. Key attractions include Kempty Falls, Gun Hill, Camel’s Back Road, and Mall Road.
How to Reach
The nearest airport to Mussoorie is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 54 kilometres away. Dehradun is the nearest major railway station, around 34 kilometres from Mussoorie.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Mussoorie is from April to June when the weather is cool and ideal for exploring the outdoors.
Coorg, Karnataka
Coorg, also referred to as Kodagu, is a scenic hill station located in Karnataka. Famous for its coffee plantations, lush greenery, and pleasant weather, Coorg is a perfect summer retreat. Must-visit attractions include Abbey Falls, Dubare Elephant Camp, and Raja’s Seat.
How to Reach
The nearest airport to Coorg is Mangalore, about 160 kilometres away. Mysore is the nearest major railway station, around 120 kilometres from Coorg.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Coorg is from April to June when the weather is comfortable and suitable for outdoor activities.
Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir
Gulmarg, known as the “Meadow of Flowers,” is a beautiful hill station in Jammu and Kashmir. Famous for its scenic beauty and adventure activities, Gulmarg attracts tourists with its lush meadows, snow-capped mountains, and the Gulmarg Gondola. Other attractions include Alpather Lake and the Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve.
How to Reach
The nearest airport to Gulmarg is Srinagar, about 56 kilometres away. Jammu is the nearest major railway station, around 290 kilometres from Gulmarg.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Gulmarg is from May to June when the weather is pleasant, and the flowers are in full bloom.
Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
Kodaikanal, often referred to as the “Princess of Hill Stations,” is a serene hill station in Tamil Nadu. Known for its mist-covered cliffs, lush greenery, and cool climate, Kodaikanal is a perfect summer getaway. Key attractions include the Kodaikanal Lake, Coaker’s Walk, Bryant Park, and the Pillar Rocks.
How to Reach
The closest airport to Kodaikanal is in Madurai, located approximately 120 kilometres away. Kodai Road is the nearest major railway station, around 100 kilometres from Kodaikanal.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Kodaikanal is from April to June when the weather is cool and perfect for sightseeing.
Conclusion
India boasts some of the most stunning hill stations, providing an ideal retreat from the summer heat. Each hill station has its unique charm, attractions, and activities that cater to different tastes and preferences. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or simply a break from the bustling city life, these hill stations provide the perfect setting for a memorable summer vacation.For more travel guides and tips, visit MaxxFour.net and start planning your next getaway to one of these stunning hill stations in India.
