Summer heat is always challenging, especially during vacation time. The scorching sun, humid climate, and warm breeze make it difficult to escape the impact of summer. In such a situation, hill stations seem to be the perfect solution to take a break from this excess heat, even if it’s only for a few days.
They not only offer relief from the heat but also make you fall in love with landscapes, lush greenery, and outdoor activities. We have listed the 9 most beautiful hill stations to explore this summer in India to find relief from the scorching heat.
Let’s start with us and dive into the world of nature’s beauty.
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9 Most Beautiful Hill Stations to Explore This Summer In India:
1. Manali
If you are a snow lover, you can’t afford to miss exploring Manali. Situated in the heart of the Himalayas, it’s a beautiful town in Himachal Pradesh that is ideal for adventure enthusiasts and sports lovers.
Its scenic beauty will make you fall in love with the station. It’s a romantic place with an elegant atmosphere suitable for a summer trip.
Rivers, scenic views, and peaks covered with snow allow you to enjoy yourself truly. Also, popular places like Hidimba Devi Temple, Bhrigu Lake, Pin Valley National Park, Manali Sanctuary, and Jogini Falls make it worth exploring.
Things to Explore in Manali
- Beautiful scenic views of Rohtang Pass with paragliding
- Camping, zorbing, and skiing at Solang Valley
- River rafting at Pandoh Dam and Beas Kund
- Exquisite cuisines and handicrafts
How to Reach Manali?
By Road: From many towns and cities in Himachal Pradesh, there are good facilities for tourist buses to explore the beautiful hill station.
By Train: Joginder Nagar is the nearest railway station to Manali.
By Air: Bhuntar is the nearest Airport, just 50 km from your destination.
2. Shimla
Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh, is one of the most beautiful hill stations to explore in India. Pine forests, oak, and deodar trees add flavour to its beauty. Mall Road, Chadwick Falls, Christ Church, The Ridge, and Himachal State Museum are the other places to visit in Shimla.
You can engage in adventurous activities like Trekking, skiing, and paragliding. It’s a wonderful place to visit with family.
Things to Explore in Shimla
- Various historic and iconic places
- River rafting, hot pool baths
- Camping, skiing, paragliding, Trekking
- Shopping at Mall Road
How to Reach Shimla?
By Road: Many cities are connected by road to Shimla.
By Train: The Kalka Shimla railway is the best route by train for exploring the beauty of Shimla.
By Air: Jubbarhatti is the nearest airport, located at a distance of 23 km.
3. Darjeeling
Darjeeling in the Shivalik mountain range is a favourite destination for tourists who intend to explore the beauty of the Himalayas.
It’s known for its wonderful views of snow peaks, gorgeous valleys, tea gardens, forests & flowering plantations, and some of the most spectacular landscape sites you will ever get to see. Also, places like Shrubbery Nightingale Park and Tiger Hill make it worth your visit.
Things to Explore in Darjeeling
- Ride on a toy train
- Historic Mahakal temple
- Himalayan Tibet Museum
- River rafting, paragliding
How to Reach Darjeeling?
By Road: A Bus facility is available in Darjeeling.
By Rail: New Jalpaiguri, connected to major cities, is the nearest railway station.
By Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport.
4. Mussoorie
Mussoorie is a favourite honeymoon destination for many, and it attracts tourists due to its beauty and adventurous activities. It is also called the ‘Queen of Hills’. It houses wonderful lakes surrounded by beautiful green vegetation, making the hill station more attractive.
Surkanda Devi Temple, Landour, George Everest House, Mussoorie Lake, Kempty Falls, etc., are places to explore.
Things to Explore in Mussoorie
- Rafting on the Yamuna River, rock climbing
- Ziplining
- Winterline is only seen in some parts of the world
- Trekking and hiking
How to Reach Mussoorie?
By Road: Luxury and regular buses are available via the Chamba Road.
By Train: Dehradun is the nearest railway station.
By Air: Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest Airport to Mussoorie; a taxi facility is available to pick and drop you.
5. Nainital
Nainital is known for its lakes and seven hills. It’s a perfect place for couples to explore in summer. Skydiving and boating in the beautiful scenes of nature make it an exciting place to visit. The adventurous things to enjoy are lake-hopping, horse riding, jungle hiking, and the ropeway.
Things to Explore in Nainital
- Lake hopping at lakes like Sattal and Bhimtal
- Jim Corbett National Park
- Bird watching at Pangot
- Naina Devi Temple
How to Reach Nainital?
By Road: Bus facilities are available in many cities, so taking the overnight bus is suggested.
By Train: Kathgodam is the nearest railway station
By Air: Pantnagar is the nearest airport.
6. Ooty
Ooty Hill Station in Tamil Nadu is like a paradise on earth. It is a wonderful place to explore, with a variety of lakes, gardens, and parks. It has a variety of flora and fauna, as well as several mystical jungles. Thus, it offers a soothing temperature all year. It also offers you a toy train ride.
Things to Explore in Ooty
- Boating at Ooty lake, Avalanche lake
- Pine forest, Deer park
- Visit the government botanical garden
- Trekking
How to Reach Ooty?
By Road: Udhagamandalam is the nearest bus stand; reach there first, go to Ooty.
By Train: Coimbatore Railway Station is the nearest railway station.
By Air: Coimbatore International Airport, about 88 km away.
7. Mahabaleshwar
Situated above the sea level of the Sahyadri spurs, Mahabaleshwar is one of the best hill stations in Maharashtra. Its scenic beauty, adventure sports, and cool climate make it best for families and couples.
Things to Explore in Mahabaleshwar
- Pratapgarh Fort
- Mahabaleshwar Temple
- Boating at Venna Lake
- Connaught Point picnic
How to Reach Mahabaleshwar?
By Road: Pune Road is the best route by road to reach Mahabaleshwar.
By Train: Satara railway station is the nearest station to Mahabaleshwar.
By Air: Opting for Pune Airport is the best route
8. Munnar
Known for spice and tea plantations, Munnar is also a hill station that you can explore this summer. Ayurvedic treatments and yoga are additions you can explore while enjoying natural activities.
Things to Explore in Munnar
- Echo Point, Top Station
- Attukal Waterfall, Tata Tea Museum
- Mountain biking
- Wildlife sanctuary and rock climbing
How to Reach Munnar?
By Road: Munnar is well-connected and has good roads.
By Air: Munnar is accessible through Cochin International Airport and Madurai Airport.
By Rail: Aluva railway station is the best route by railway.
9. Almora
Almora is a budget-friendly hill station that you can explore. You will love to explore its green beauty and beautiful gardens. It is rich in cultural activities.
Things to Explore in Almora
- Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary
- Trekking, painted rock shelters
- Kasar Devi Temple
- Deer Park
How to Reach Almora?
By Road: You can take a bus or a taxi to reach Almora.
By Air: Pantnagar Airport.
Final Words
Exploring hill stations like Manali, Shimla, Almora, and Mahabaleshwar in the summer offers an ideal escape from the summer heat. It’s a perfect combination of natural beauty, pleasant weather, and enriching experiences. From Shimla bazaars to the landscapes of Almora, each hill station gives you a soothing summer experience and makes it memorable.
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