Top 5 Hill Stations in India

India is dotted with hill stations spread all over the country that offer ideal settings for road trips, getaways, and vacations. Hill stations are beautiful, peaceful, and calming because of their scenic surroundings, crisp mountain air, picturesque views, and inviting atmospheres. Listed below are India’s top five hill stations, each of which is ideal for a relaxing family vacation that will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated from within.

Ooty, Tamil Nadu: Often referred to as “Queen of the Nilgiris” and “India’s Switzerland,” Ooty, also known as Ootacamund and Udagamandalam, has managed to live up to these monikers for over a century now. Situated amidst the Nilgiri hills of the western ghats, the city has grown and the economy has prospered as more and more tourists throng the place to savor the pristine natural beauty and enjoy the pleasant weather. From colonial times on, Ooty was used as a getaway for British officers. The colonial hangover can still be felt as one takes a stroll in the city. The verdant hills, waterfalls, animal sightings, plantations, fast-flowing streams, and grasslands all add up to a memorable experience for your stay at this beautiful hill station. Ooty is one of the wettest places in Tamil Nadu, and it is a mystical experience to be here during the monsoon. Winters leave you engulfed in mist, and during summer, it is a place to escape the unbearable heat.

Mussoorie, Uttarakhand: At over 7000 feet above sea level, it is one of the top hill stations in India and is the most favored destination. In 1827, a Britisher climbed this ridge and found the place, and Mussoorie was born. The super scenic Himalayan mountains, outstanding viewpoints, and location amidst mountain ranges made the British call this place ‘Scotland of India’ and because of the pleasant weather, it was their second capital as well. The hill station has grown exponentially over the years, and the growth has brought in more facilities for tourists. The ropeway is a recent addition that has given tourists an extra activity in which to participate. The British have left behind some of their trademark buildings that stand as proof of the importance this place had in the past and also give a glimpse of the architecture of bygone days. A vacation to Mussoorie, usually known for romantic getaways, would be long remembered.

Darjeeling, West Bengal: Located on the foothills of the Himalayas in the state of West Bengal, Darjeeling, known for its panoramic views, is frequented by tourists from all over India. The alluring view of Kanchanaganga, one of the highest mountains in the Himalayan range, during the summer is a sight to remember. The UNESCO heritage toy train, ropeway, parks, plantations, viewpoints, forests, temples, monasteries, and many sightseeing places around the city keep travelers engaged. One of the oldest tracts of forests is seen in the vicinity of Darjeeling, The national parks around the place play an important role in the pleasant weather of the city. The British replaced the forests here with tea plantations and hired people to work. Thus, Darjeeling was born around 200 years ago.

Coorg, Karnataka: Placed right amidst the western ghats, the Coorg district of Karnataka attracts travelers from across the world. The ancient land of the Kodavas, with its unique language and lifestyle, is also known for great hospitality. Dotted with innumerable waterfalls, mountains with shola forests, ridges, cliffs, hills, coffee plantations, and ancient temples, Coorg is a complete package for an enterprising traveler. The national parks bordering the district act as wonderful getaway destinations to watch wildlife in their natural habitat. Trekking, wildlife safari, food, culture, history, heritage, and language—Coorg has a variety and substance to enthrall the tourists.

Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra: It is another hill station that was developed by the colonial rulers, and the beautiful place also served as the summer capital of the Bombay Presidency. At over 4000 feet above sea level, Mahabaleshwar is perched atop one of the largest plateaus in Asia that has valleys on all sides. Known for its pleasant weather and strawberries, it is a holy place with ancient temples. The plateau has numerous viewpoints that have absolutely stunning long-reach views. Serenity and divinity go hand in hand in this city, where in the Mahadev temple, one of the greatest rivers of India, Krishna takes birth and flows eastwards catering to the needs of millions of people with its basin covering 8% of India’s geographical area.