Summer season in Delhi means scorching heat. Escape the heat and plan a holiday to some chilly hill retreat. While there are several pristine hill stations near Delhi, you can plan a short trip, weekend getaway or vacation with family, partner, friends or solo. As the national capital enjoys a wonderful position of being close to hills, your holiday is easily accessible. Be it on a family vacation or on a romantic getaway, you can indulge in a number of leisure as well as adventure activities.
Hill station near Delhi
Below are the the list of famous hill stations near Delhi
1. DEHRADUN
Dehradun is the capital of the Indian state of Uttarakhand, near the Himalayan foothills. At its core is the 6-sided Ghanta Ghar clock tower. To the southwest is Paltan Bazaar, a busy shopping area. Just east is the Sikh temple Gurdwara Nanaksar, topped with ornate white and golden domes. In Clement Town to the city’s southwest, Mindrolling Monastery is a Tibetan Buddhist center with shrine rooms in its Great Stupa.One of the most economical places in the city, Paltan Bazaar is famous for Basmati rice, which also is one of the most popular things to buy in Dehradun. Take an evening stroll in the narrow, cluttered lanes of Paltan Market, Dehradun and you will be able to get your hands on reasonably priced clothes, never-seen-before antiques, second-hand books, and Pahari handicrafts – all without getting broke. You can also head to one of the cafes or food-joints in the neighborhood, marking a sweet end to your day of shopping in Dehradun.
Distance from Delhi to Dehradun is 245 km.
2. PARWANOO
This is a place where one can enjoy the captivating ambience of a hill station and hustle-bustle of a city. Situated on the border of Haryana and Himachal Pradesh, this small town offers beautiful apple orchards and delicious fruit products.
An ideal getaway for outdoor activities such as trekking and hiking, it is also a destination for nature lovers. Once a sleepy town, today Parwanoo has transformed into an industrial city. The verdant cover of pine and fir trees along with pleasant weather will make you fall in love with this place. Packed with lakes, temples and gardens and a ride on a cable car, a trip to this town can be one of the most enjoyable and cherished.
Parwanoo is a picturesque hill station on the borders of Haryana and Himachal Pradesh, surrounded by hillocks covered with lush green vegetation. Once a sleepy little village, Parwanoo has become a major industrial centre owing its proximity to Haryana. From fruit based products to plastics, motor parts and watch components, Parwanoo’s industries are growing fast. Often seen as a gateway to explore the enchanting natural beauty of Himachal Pradesh, Parwanoo offers the ideal base for a short and pleasant stay with its vast orchards and pleasant vistas.
Distance from Delhi to Parwanoo is 272 km.
3. MUSSUOORIE
From an altitude of more than 6150 ft, views of Doon Valley, the surrounding hills and greenery could be glimpsed from anywhere one stands in Mussoorie. Mists hanging over Dun Valley and the forests of Pine are just the beginning of the spell that casted over this hill destination. As the ‘Baby Sun’ opens eyes for the dawn, life in small houses down the slopes and in the hotels and resorts for tourists here starts getting stirred to lovely wakening. The curvy road which resembles to the back of double-humped camel and water falling with all the majesty one can associate with it, are some of the ways to become aware of being in Mussoorie Hill Station, but these are not alone.
Mussoorie tour is like golden amber which keeps spark of rejuvenation kindled in the mortal body and immortal soul. These are some of the features that are instantly recognizable of Mussoorie, yet not the only aspects. Among the crown jewels of tourism in Uttarakhand, Musoorrie has its own charm. Baits of this ‘Queen of Hills’ attracts everyone coming to this town snuggled in foothills of Garhwal Himalayas; the nearer one gets, more indulgent he becomes.
Although there is a great need to control ‘over’ in Mussoorie tourism and promote eco-friendly facet of it, the place continues to draw tourists from India and abroad being easily accessible and enchantingly welcoming.
Distance from Delhi to Mussoorie is 279 km.
4. KASAULI
Kasauli is a small, beautiful hill station of Himachal Pradesh located at a distance of 77 kms from Shimla situated at a height of 1927mt., from sea level. Built in 19th century by Britishers, the city has its own charm and beauty. Covered by the beautiful pine forests, orchards and high hills, Kasauli is described as the picturesque hill-station of Northern India.
This pretty little hill town is ideal for long walks along wild-flower-hedged winding roads. Kasauli provide a charming view of Chandigarh, Shimla and the himalayas covered with snow. It’s main ttraction lies in its overall cleanliness, and it’s accessibility.
Monkey Point : Monkey point is the highest point, located at a distance of 4 km walk trip from the town. It gets its name from the steep cliff that only monkeys can negotiate. The point gives panoramic view of the plains of Chandigarh and the river Satluj. Apart from the natural beauty the point is also a famous for the Lord Hanuman (Hindu Deity) temple on the top of the hill.
Sanawar: Located at a distance of Just 6-km from Kasauli, Sanawar houses one of the best schools in the country. The Lawrence school is almost one hundred-years-old, started by Sir Henry Lawrence and a major attraction of the town.
The Christ Church : Fifty years ago, left by British an attractive Christ Church is still unspoiled. The Christ Church, is a typically Anglican structure of the period and its foundation stone laid in 1844. The grey stone church set amongst verdant green makes a very pretty picture.
The best time to visit is between April to November, when the climate is pleasant and it is not so cold. In winters, the temperature hovers between 10 to 20 degrees many a times, even goes down to negative. While in peak summers the temperature hits as high as 32 degree Celsius.
Distance from Delhi to kasauli is 289 km
5. NAINITAL
Nainital is a perfect place to traveling during summers season (March to June) when temperature stay at the temperature around 26°C and the winter season is uncomfortable for tourist when the average temperature stay around 6°C but some regions of upper hill during the month December and February snow fall is very common where the temperature fall below 0°C. According to Indian census 2001 about 38560 people reside at Nainital.
According to Hindu mythology, Nainital Lake was created by three sages namely Atri, Pulastya and Pulaha. Legend tells that these sages were thirsty and finding water in Nainital, as they were unable to find out water, so they dug a large hole at the location of the present day lake and filled it with water of Manasarovar in Tibet. Hindus believe that the Naini Lake is one of the 51 Shakti Pithas where Sati’s eyes (Nain) fell while her dead body is being carried by Lord Shiva Naini Lake is placed at the heart of the hill station. It is a eye-shaped lake attracts thousands of tourists round the year. You can hire a boat to enjoy the surrounding beauty of the lake. The northern side of the lake is known as Mallital, while the southern side is known as Tallital. There have a Bridge over the lake which connects the two banks of the lake.
Naini Devi Temple is placed by the north bank of Nainital Lake. This temple is dedicated to Mata Naina Debi represented by two eyes. You will found some more temples like goddess Kali and Lord Ganesha around the Naina Devi Temple. It is believed that the time of Mahatandab of lord Shiva, the eyes (Naina) of the Goddess Sati are assumed to have fallen here. There are also so many places to visit in nainital.
Distance from Delhi to national is 302 km.
6. KANATAL
Kanatal is a small village located 78 Km ahead of the beautiful city, Dehradun in Uttarakhand. It is named after a lake, Kanatal, which used to be there. The region is surrounded with majestic hills as well as some famous hill stations like Mussoorie, Chamba and many others. Kanatal travel guide includes all the information regarding sightseeing and adventurous activities around this appealing place. Today Kanatal is a usual haunt for those travelers who seek peace and solitude. Kanatal is said to be named after a lake that once existed there.Apart from peace, the place exhibit the charm of its won in form of majestic hills, fruit trees, apple orchards and lush green forests. This quaint hamlet sprinkled with plethora of wild flowers and small temples lies in the proximity to other major hill stations. Perched at the height of 8500 ft above the sea level, the salubrious weather and the untouched beauty of this place is well connected via well maintained roads unlike its other counterparts.
You can also take a walk through Kodia Jungle, which is a dense forest area located at a distance of around one kilometer away from Kanatal. You can spot a few wild animals by taking a ride through the jungle in a jeep, and you can also see many natural springs that are quite prevalent in the region.
The Tehri dam in the region is also a must see destination in Kanatal.
Distance from Delhi to kanatal is 321 km.
7. KUFRI
Kufri is a small hill station in Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh state in India. It is located 20 km from the state capital Shimla on the National Highway No.22.The name Kufri is derived from the word kufr meaning “lake” in the local language.The highest point in the surrounding region,[1] Kufri has a Himalayan wildlife zoo which hosts rare antelopes, felines and birds including the Himalayan monal, the state bird of Himachal Pradesh until 2007. During winter a meandering path through the potato plantations turns into a popular ski track.Kufri Fun Campus an amusement park to enjoy the whole day. A lifetime experience of adventure at the height of 9000 feet. This park is an excellent destination for family to make a memorable day, is equipped with various rides, pools and world’s highest go-kart track. Huge number of children, teenagers and adults visit this place.Very nice place to visit to enjoy weather and sight seen throughout the year. However, once open and free park, it has been overcrowded by local thugs and congested over the years due to shops on top hill.Kufri to the Mahasu Peak- the highest peak in Kufri.
Distance from Delhi to Kufri is 358 km.
8. ALMORA
One of the popular hill stations in uttarakhand, Almora is a town located in the state of Uttarakhand. The scenic beauty and the charming weather make it an ideal tourist destination. The town is situated at an altitude of 5,417 feet amidst the southern part the Kumaon Hills of the Himalayas.
Almora in Uttarakhand was established in the 16th century. The best time visit Almora is between the months of March and October when the weather is pleasant. Nature and adventure lovers can also make trips during the winter months. Being a hill station, Almora experiences a temperate climate all through the year. The summer months are pleasant while the winter months are chilly.
Hundreds of tourists come to Almora to get a feel of the scenic beauty and idyllic charm. The town is surrounded by beautiful pine, fir and rhododendron trees. There are a number of tourist attractions in Almora which travelers should visit.
Tourists can choose their ideal lodging center from a wide variety of hotels in Almora according to their budget, requirements and preferences. Almora is home to a number of first class and luxury hotels as well as middle range and budget hotels.
Distance from Delhi to Almora is 368 km.
9. RANIKHET
A famous tourist site at an elevation of 1829m above sea level, Ranikhet is ornamented with nature’s enviable beauty.Literally signifies Queen’s meadow, the place has a beautiful tale through which it got its name. A lovely Indian queen visited here and mesmerized by the exquisiteness of this town.Ranikhet due to its high altitude enjoys a cool weather throughout the year and gets plenty of snowfall during the winters. The summer months start from late March till the end of May. The temperatures during this season never go beyond 22 degrees and are the mildest and one of the most pleasant summers you will encounter anywhere in India. The monsoons arrive in end of June and rains continue till early September. The rains in the hills cover the region in breathtaking greenery and the scenery is the most picturesque. The winters in Ranikhet start pretty early in the month of October and ends till the month of February. The temperatures can get below freezing with occasional snowfall experienced in the higher areas.
Distance from Delhi to Ranikhet is 356 km.
10.MANDI
Mandi district (earlier known as Mandavya Nagar) is one of the central districts of Himachal Pradesh state in northern India. Mandi town is the headquarters of Mandi district. The town has mythological and historical significance and boasts of a unique temple architecture. It is referred to as Chhota Kashi as there are many ancient temples in the city and on the banks of river Beas. The Beas flows through the town and hills, which makes this town more scenic. It has a serene ambiance though the modern development has made its inroads here in infrastructural developments
From Chandigarh it will take about 8 hours in vehicle to reach here . Thick cedar forests, beautiful Uhl river , big lakes , Himalayan culture ,wildlife, haulage trolley , trout fishes etc are some main attractions of Barot valley. You will easily find rooms in many small guest houses and home stays here . Winch camp , Rajgundha , Chotta bhangal , billing valley famous for paragliding are nearby attractions of Barot valley . You can reach there either on vehicle or by trekking.
Distance from Delhi to Mandi is 423 km.
11.KULLU
These are but few types of scenery when thinking of Kullu. They contribute their part in making complete picture of a memorable hill town with perfect Kullu holidays.
The Kulanthpitha of past referring to the meaning – ‘end of the livable world’, is Kullu where visitors come and revel in all the gifts Nature has to bestow on its onlookers.
Kullu is a hot-spot for adventure sports. Trekking, river rafting, mountaineering, paragliding and hiking over the Himalayan glaciers are some of the activities that Kullu offers. Angling is another activity enjoyed a lot by locals as well as tourists. Mountaineering beginners can trek around the Beas Kund region, Hanuman Tibba and Deo Tibba.Kullu was earlier known as Kulanthpitha, meaning ‘the ending point of inhabitable world’. The beautiful valley is also mentioned in epics like Ramayana, Mahabharata and Vishnu Purana. Chinese traveler Huien Tsang visited Kullu in 634 or 635 AD and described it as a region completely surrounded by mountains. King Ashoka had a stupa built here, which was eventually taken away by a Mughal king and installed in Ferozshah Kotla in Delhi.
Distance from Delhi to Kullu is 497 km.
12.DHARAMSHALA
Dharamshala is a popular hill town located in the state of Himachal Pradesh. It is situated in the upper reaches of the Kangra Valley at an elevation of 1,457 meters above sea level. Since ancient times the region surrounding Dharamshala has been ruled by the Katoch Dynasty of Kangra, which is also the oldest surviving royal dynasty in the world. Following several wars and battles, the region came under the control of the British in 1848. Following the British annexation, the region was developed into a cantonment town for the Gurkha Light Infantry known as the Gurkha Rifles in 1860.The town is divided into 2 areas, each separated by a short distance of 10 kilometers. The upper Dharamshala is known more commonly as McLeod Ganj and is the home of the Tibetan community in exile. It is the center of all the tourist activities and most information related to Dharamshala mostly refers to McLeod Ganj. The lower Dharamshala contains all the commercial centers, educational institutions and hospitals. One can also find a few tea gardens and the bus station in lower Dharamshala.
Bhagasu, Dharamkot, Tsuglagkhang Complex, Tibet Museum, Bhagsunag falls, Dal Lake, Indrahar pass, Triund and meeting the Dalai Lama are few of the major attractions that can be visited in Dharamshala.
Distance from Delhi to Dharamshala is 475 km.
13.AULI
Auli is considered among the best skiing destinations of India. In 2011, Auli hosted the SAF Winter Games and is often compared to some of the best skiing resorts of the world as its slopes are perfect for novices and experts alike. If you are a novice and hold special interest in skiing, it is recommended to enroll in the skiing courses (7 days- 14 days) conducted by GMVN. Miles and miles of this hill-station is sprinkled with meadows and in winters it turns into sheer white beauty. Auli is located in the Garhwal Hills of Uttarakhand, with elevation ranging between 2519 and 3050 meters. Lower and upper slopes are connected via chair-lift and ski lift.
Other than skiing, Auli is known for its temples too, like Mana Paravat, Kamat and Nanda Devi. Best time to visit Auli is off course between the months of December and March. However, the climate stays pleasant all throughout the year, so you can visit Auli anytime during the year, except monsoons.
Distance from Delhi to Auli is 506 km.
14.CHAMBA
The hill town of Chamba is situated on the banks of Ravi river right at the point of its confluence with the Sal River. Sitting atop an elevation of 996 meters above sea level, Chamba is one of the important tourist towns of Himachal Pradesh. The history of the place can be traced back to the 2nd century BC when it was ruled by the Kolian Tribes.
The town (which is also a popular hill station in Himachal Pradesh) was later developed by the Kings of, the Gupta Empire, the Pratihara or the Rajput Dynasty and finally the British. The name Chamba was kept after the daughter of the Maru king, Raja Sahil Varman who shifted the capital of his kingdom from the adjoining town of Bharmour during the 10th century AD. The terrain surrounding Chamba primarily consists of hills, valleys, rivers and is a popular tourist resort away from the usual hustle and bustle of the cities.
Distance from Delhi to Chamba is 572 km.
15. MOUNT ABU
The only hill station of Rajasthan,its cool atmosphere and lush green surroundings make it a major tourist spot within the state. The most important attraction, however, are undoubtedly the Dilwara temples, which is one of the most stunning piece of architecture in the country. If you are a history or architecture buff, this is one of the places you should absolutely not miss out in India.
The exceptionally intricate architecture of the Dilwara temples are of course the main attraction here, and you can easily spend hours wondering how these temples were built over 2 centuries, almost a 1000 years back. The temples were specifically made so that they are plain from the outside to avoid attraction of plunderers, and have withstood the test of time extremely well. If architecture is not your thing, then there are various lakes and viewpoints such as the Honeymoon Point, Sunset Point, etc. Tourists enjoy calm and relaxed boating in the Nakki lake, and a viewof the sunset from the Sunset point. The highest peak of the Aravali Range also lies in Mt. Abu, surrounded by dense green forests. Mt Abu will offer you all you can demand from a popular and typical destination of a romantic and simpler nature.