Top 10 Hill Stations in India: Scenic Escapes, Best Time to Visit & Things to Do

Why India’s Hill Stations Are the Perfect Escape in 2026

When the plains heat up, traffic feels endless and the air starts to feel heavy, India’s hill stations become the country’s favourite escape plan. From Himalayan ridges to misty tea plantations in the Western Ghats, these cool-weather towns offer pine-scented air, lakes, waterfalls, walking trails and long-distance mountain views that can reset your mood in just a few days. Whether you are planning a short break from Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru or Chennai, or building a longer India itinerary, understanding which hill station suits your style will save you both time and money.

Each of India’s major hill stations has its own personality. Some, like Shimla and Ooty, still carry a colonial-era imprint with heritage buildings and old churches. Others, like Munnar and Coorg, are all about tea and coffee estates, spice gardens and soft green hills. Himalayan favourites like Manali, Nainital and Mussoorie blend lakes and high peaks with easy access by road. Even Rajasthan, usually associated with deserts and heat, hides its own hill retreat at Mount Abu. Picking the right one depends on how busy you like your destination, what kind of scenery you enjoy and which month you are travelling in.

This guide brings together the top 10 hill stations in India that continue to rank high in searches and real travel plans in 2026. For each destination you’ll find a simple overview, main attractions, best time to visit and who it works best for. Later sections cover typical costs, how to choose between them, and practical packing and planning tips. You can use this as a one-stop reference to decide on a single weekend getaway or to chain several hill stations together as part of a bigger India route.

Top 10 Hill Stations in India for 2026

1. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

Shimla, once the summer capital of British India, still tops many lists of hill stations in North India. Spread across several ridges, it mixes colonial-era architecture, busy bazaars and easy viewpoints that work well for first-time hill travellers. The Mall Road and the open Ridge are the main promenades, lined with shops, cafés and the iconic Christ Church, and they stay lively well into the evening.

Beyond the town centre, you can board the historic Kalka–Shimla narrow-gauge “toy train” to enjoy forested slopes and old tunnels at a relaxed pace. Short trips to nearby spots like Kufri, Mashobra and Naldehra give you quieter walks, deodar forests and golf or picnic spots. Because Shimla is reachable by a combination of train and road from Delhi and Chandigarh, it is often the first choice for families planning a simple, low-stress hill holiday.

Best time to visit: March to June for summer holidays and school breaks; December to February if you’re hoping for snow and don’t mind cold nights.
Good for: families, couples, first-time hill visitors, travellers who prefer easier access and plenty of hotel options.

2. Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Manali sits higher up in the Kullu Valley and has become one of India’s most searched and visited hill destinations. Snow-capped peaks, apple orchards, riverside walks and adventure activities make it feel more “outdoorsy” than some other hill towns. The town is split between the newer Manali and the more relaxed Old Manali area where many homestays and cafés are concentrated.

Popular things to do include visiting the Hadimba Devi Temple set among tall cedar trees, spending time in Old Manali’s café lanes, and heading to Solang Valley for paragliding and other seasonal activities. In winter, slopes near Manali attract people looking for snow play and basic skiing; in summer, it often serves as a starting point for road trips through the Atal Tunnel towards Lahaul, Spiti and, when conditions allow, further on to Ladakh.

Best time to visit: March to June and September to November for pleasant weather; December to February if you specifically want snow and winter scenery.
Good for: adventure seekers, honeymooners, young groups, travellers planning high-altitude road trips later in their journey.

3. Darjeeling, West Bengal

Darjeeling is synonymous with tea, but the town offers far more than just plantations. Set on steep slopes with a backdrop of the Kanchenjunga range, it combines views, a famous narrow-gauge railway, monasteries and a blend of Nepali, Tibetan and Bengali influences. Cool weather for much of the year makes it a strong summer and shoulder-season option for those escaping the hotter plains.

Classic experiences include touring a working tea estate to understand how leaves travel from bush to cup, riding the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway along the scenic Batasia Loop, visiting Ghoom Monastery and planning an early-morning trip to Tiger Hill in the hope of seeing first light touch Kanchenjunga. In town, Chowrasta and nearby viewpoints offer casual promenades, while small cafés, bakeries and bookshops add to the charm.

Best time to visit: March to May and October to early December for clearer mountain views; monsoon brings fog and heavy showers but also very lush hillsides.
Good for: tea enthusiasts, train lovers, travellers combining Sikkim or Northeast India with West Bengal.

4. Ooty (Udhagamandalam), Tamil Nadu

Ooty is one of South India’s classic hill stations, located in the Nilgiri Hills at the junction of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Kerala. Long known for its cool climate, lakes and gardens, Ooty attracts repeat visitors from nearby metros who appreciate the familiar mix of sightseeing, boating and relaxed drives through surrounding hills and tea estates.

Key attractions include the Government Botanical Gardens with their old trees and flower beds, Ooty Lake for paddleboats or rowboats, and Doddabetta Peak for wide views across the Nilgiris on a clear day. The Nilgiri Mountain Railway, which connects Ooty with Coonoor and Mettupalayam, is another highlight and a UNESCO-listed route that still feels nostalgic. Many travellers now prefer to base themselves in quieter Coonoor for a slightly less crowded experience while still enjoying tea gardens and similar landscapes.

Best time to visit: March to June and September to November for comfortable temperatures and stable weather.
Good for: families, honeymooners, travellers who enjoy gentle sightseeing, gardens and heritage train rides.

5. Munnar, Kerala

Munnar is Kerala’s postcard hill station, dominated by emerald tea plantations, misty valleys and protected forest areas. It has become a near-essential stop on many Kerala itineraries because it offers such a strong contrast to the coastal backwaters and beaches: cooler air, hiking trails, tea factories and wildlife reserves all within driving distance.

Visitors typically tour tea estates and factories to see how tea is grown and processed, visit Eravikulam National Park to look for Nilgiri Tahr and high-altitude grasslands, and drive to viewpoints like Top Station for sweeping views of cloud-filled valleys. Along the way you can stop at waterfalls, spice gardens and small villages, or plan short treks and cycling routes if you prefer more active days. Compared with some northern hill stations, Munnar still feels more about landscape and less about big-town bustle.

Best time to visit: September to March when the air is fresh and hills are green; April–May can be warmer but remain pleasant at higher altitudes, while monsoon brings heavy rain but dramatic scenery.

Good for: couples, nature lovers, photographers, travellers combining Munnar with Kochi, Thekkady and Alleppey.

6. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

Kodaikanal, often called the “Princess of Hill Stations”, sits on a plateau ringed by wooded slopes and deep valleys. While its central area can feel busy at peak times, many stays scattered around the hills still offer a quiet, slower-paced experience. Compared with Ooty, Kodaikanal can feel more intimate in parts, especially if you choose a guesthouse or resort away from the main market.

Most itineraries revolve around Kodaikanal Lake, where you can rent rowboats or bicycles and circle the shore; Coaker’s Walk, a scenic ridge path that’s especially atmospheric in misty weather; Bryant Park with its flower displays; and nearby waterfalls such as Silver Cascade and Bear Shola Falls. A handful of viewpoints and short forest trails make it easy to spend two or three days here without repeating activities, and cool evenings still encourage sweater weather even when the plains are hot.

Best time to visit: March to June and September to November for mild days and clear views.
Good for: couples, groups of friends, travellers who enjoy lakeside walks and moderate outdoor activity.

7. Nainital, Uttarakhand

Nainital, wrapped around the emerald-green Naini Lake, is one of Uttarakhand’s most accessible and family-friendly hill stations. The combination of lakeside views, mountain surroundings and several smaller lakes nearby makes it an easy choice for both short breaks and longer stays in the Kumaon region. Its compact core means you can see a lot without very long drives once you arrive.

Classic activities include boating on Naini Lake, visiting Naina Devi Temple at one end of the water, strolling along Mall Road in the evening and taking cable car or road trips up to viewpoints like Snow View for panoramas of the surrounding hills and, on a clear day, Himalayan peaks. From Nainital, day trips to Bhimtal, Sattal and Naukuchiatal give you quieter, more spacious lakeside experiences, ideal for people who prefer softer, less crowded environments.

Best time to visit: March to June and October to November; summers and long weekends can be busy, so advance bookings are important.

Good for: families, couples, and travellers combining their trip with Jim Corbett National Park or wider Kumaon itineraries.

8. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand

Mussoorie, the “Queen of the Hills”, lies above Dehradun and offers sweeping views over the Doon Valley and, in the other direction, the distant snow ranges on clear days. It has been a popular getaway since colonial times and still mixes old houses, schools, churches and new hotels along its ridges.

The Mall Road and Camel’s Back Road are the main strolling routes, with viewpoints, cafés and shops. For day outings, travellers often visit Kempty Falls or other nearby waterfalls, and head to viewpoints such as Lal Tibba or Gun Hill for wide vistas. For a quieter, old-world feel, the small cantonment area of Landour, just above Mussoorie, offers narrow lanes, heritage churches, bakeries and forested walks that feel surprisingly calm compared to the town below.

Best time to visit: March to June and September to November; shoulder months can be less crowded with still-pleasant weather.
Good for: families, couples, and travellers looking for short breaks from Delhi, Chandigarh and other North Indian cities.

9. Coorg (Kodagu), Karnataka

Coorg, or Kodagu, is a district of rolling hills, valleys and plantations rather than a single town, which is part of its charm. Often nicknamed the “Scotland of India”, it draws travellers with coffee estates, misty mornings and homestays that showcase local Coorgi hospitality and food. It’s a favourite weekend escape from Bengaluru and Mysuru and also fits well within longer South India routes.

Typical experiences include staying on or near coffee and spice plantations, joining guided estate walks, visiting Abbey Falls, and timing your visit to Raja’s Seat in Madikeri for sunrise or sunset views. Many itineraries add a half-day or more at Dubare Elephant Camp or similar forest-based activities, always through authorised programmes. Coorg’s cooler, green setting and slower pace make it equally suited to relaxed downtime and light outdoor adventure.

Best time to visit: October to March for comfortable weather and clear views; monsoon months are very wet but transform the region into a lush, misty landscape.

Good for: couples, families, nature lovers, travellers who enjoy homestays, local cuisine and plantation stays.

10. Mount Abu, Rajasthan

Mount Abu, in the Aravalli Range, is Rajasthan’s only true hill station and offers a cooler counterpoint to the state’s hot plains and deserts. Its mix of lakes, forests, viewpoints and intricate Jain temples means you get both natural and architectural highlights in a relatively compact area. Because it’s reachable from Udaipur and other parts of Rajasthan, it often appears as a refreshing stop in otherwise warm-weather itineraries.

The Dilwara Jain Temples are the standout attraction, renowned for their detailed marble carvings and calm ambience. Around Nakki Lake, you can rent boats, stroll at sunset and enjoy viewpoints from the nearby hills. A drive up to Guru Shikhar, the highest peak in the Aravalli Hills, rewards you with wide vistas and a noticeable drop in temperature compared with Rajasthan’s lowlands. For many travellers, Mount Abu serves as a pleasant climate break within a longer tour of forts and desert towns.

Best time to visit: October to March for pleasant days and cool evenings; April–June is still cooler than most of Rajasthan, while the monsoon months add greenery and occasional mist.

Good for: Rajasthan visitors, temple and architecture fans, and anyone wanting a cooler pause between desert and city stops.

Quick Comparison: Which Hill Station Should You Pick?

If you’re short on time, the table below gives a snapshot of how these top hill stations differ in vibe and best uses within a trip.

Hill Station Cost Guide: What to Budget

Costs vary widely by season, how early you book and the level of comfort you prefer, but the following table gives an approximate idea of daily budgets per person at popular hill stations when sharing a room, excluding long-distance flights.

How to Choose the Right Hill Station for Your Trip

All ten destinations in this list are attractive, but they’re not interchangeable. You’ll get more out of your trip if you match the hill station to your route, time of year and interests. For example, if you’re already planning Rajasthan, Mount Abu slips naturally into that itinerary, while Nainital or Mussoorie fit best with Delhi–Uttarakhand circuits. South India routes connect well with Ooty, Kodaikanal, Munnar and Coorg, especially if you’re travelling through Kochi, Mysuru, Bengaluru or the Kerala backwaters.

Think about how busy you’re comfortable with: major hill towns can be extremely crowded on summer weekends and public holidays, while shoulder seasons often offer fewer people and more relaxed stays. Also consider altitude and your group’s comfort level—places like Manali and some viewpoints around Munnar and Kodaikanal sit higher and can feel colder or involve steeper walks. If you’re travelling with young children or older relatives, destinations with compact centres and shorter walks, such as Nainital, Shimla or Ooty, may be easier to manage.

Best Time to Visit India’s Hill Stations

In broad terms, March to June and October to November are the most popular windows for hill station travel. During the hot months on the plains, hills offer natural air-conditioning, while post-monsoon periods bring clear skies and fresh greenery. However, each region behaves slightly differently, so fine-tuning your timing can make a big difference to your experience.

• Himachal and Uttarakhand: March–June and October–November give the best balance of weather and accessibility. December–February can be magical if you like snow and cold, but some roads may be slippery or temporarily closed.
• Darjeeling and the Eastern Himalayas: Spring (March–May) and post-monsoon (October–December) usually offer the best chance of seeing Kanchenjunga, though fog can appear at any time.
• South Indian hills (Ooty, Kodaikanal, Munnar, Coorg): October–March is generally comfortable; monsoon months are beautiful but bring heavy rain and occasional landslide risk on some routes.
• Mount Abu and the Aravallis: October–March is ideal; summers are still notably cooler than nearby desert cities, making it a useful escape even in April–June.

Monsoon travel can be rewarding if you enjoy dramatic clouds, waterfalls and off-season prices, but always check local news, weather forecasts and road advisories before committing to long drives in hilly terrain during peak rain.

Practical Packing and Travel Tips for Hill Stations

A little preparation goes a long way when travelling to higher, cooler regions. Even if your main trip is during India’s summer, evenings and early mornings in the hills can be surprisingly chilly, especially if you catch wind or rain. Always carry at least one warm layer and something that protects against sudden showers, such as a light waterproof jacket or compact umbrella.

• Clothing: Dress in layers so you can adjust to changing temperatures throughout the day. Pack at least one warm sweater or fleece, a windproof or waterproof layer and comfortable trousers or jeans.
• Footwear: Choose closed shoes or sturdy sandals with good grip for slopes, uneven pavements and forest trails. Flip-flops are best kept for hotel use.
• Health and comfort: Motion sickness tablets can help on winding mountain roads. Also carry basic remedies for colds, headaches and minor stomach upsets.
• Transport: In peak seasons, book reliable taxis or shared cabs early and allow extra time for traffic jams on popular approaches like those to Manali, Nainital or Mussoorie.
• Respect for local rules: Dispose of rubbish properly, avoid loud music outdoors and follow any safety signs near lakes, cliffs or waterfalls.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hill Stations in India

Which hill station is best for first-time visitors to India?

Shimla, Manali, Nainital and Ooty are often recommended for first-time visitors because they offer clear sightseeing circuits, plenty of accommodation choices and relatively straightforward access from major cities. They also have enough tourist infrastructure that you can find guides, taxis and restaurants easily.

Are India’s hill stations safe for solo travellers?

Yes, most major hill stations are used to solo travellers, including women travelling alone. Standard precautions still apply: choose reputable accommodation, avoid very isolated walks after dark, keep valuables secure and use trusted taxi or rideshare services wherever possible.

Do I need to book hotels in advance?

In peak season (March–June and around major holidays), advance booking is strongly recommended, especially in popular destinations like Manali, Nainital, Mussoorie, Ooty and Munnar. In quieter months or mid-week, you may find more flexibility, but booking at least your first night in each place is still a good idea.

Can I drive my own car to hill stations?

Many people do drive their own cars to the hills, but you should be confident on narrow, winding roads and be prepared for traffic on busy weekends. If you’re not used to mountain driving, hiring a local driver or taxi can reduce stress and let everyone in your group relax and enjoy the views.

How many days should I spend at a hill station?

For a quick break, two to three nights is usually enough to see major sights and recharge. If you want to include nearby day trips, short treks or simple rest days, aim for four to five nights, especially in larger regions like Coorg or Munnar where there is more to explore beyond the main town.

Can I work remotely from a hill station?

Some hill stations now have hotels, guesthouses and cafés geared towards remote workers, with decent Wi-Fi and quieter spaces. Connections can still be inconsistent during storms or power cuts, so if stable internet is critical, research your accommodation carefully and consider having a backup mobile data plan.

Plan Your Hill Station Holiday With Local Experts

With so many hill stations to choose from, the hardest step is often the first one: deciding where to go and how to fit that stop into your wider India route. Once you’ve narrowed down whether you prefer Himachal, Uttarakhand, the Eastern Himalayas, the Western Ghats or Rajasthan’s Aravallis, the rest becomes much easier to plan. From there, you can choose how many days to spend, which viewpoints and walks to prioritise, and whether to travel mainly by train, flight or private car and driver.

If you’d like help matching the right hill station to your travel dates, interests and budget – or you want a door-to-door solution that includes reliable transport and handpicked stays – you can always reach out for a customised itinerary. With a bit of smart planning now, your time in India’s hill stations can become the cool, calm highlight of your year.