India has numerous hill stations that are best in their own way with varying climates, surroundings, and cultures. You might be looking for an escape from the monotonous routine or fast-paced lifestyle of cities; a vacation in the hill stations is the absolute best. Although hill stations are generally preferred by honeymooners, they are also ideal for anyone wanting to connect with nature, seek adventure, and spend time with family. Let us make it easy for you to choose the next hill station of your dreams. The top hill stations in India that are worth checking out are

Darjeeling, West Bengal
Shillong, Meghalaya
Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Coorg, Karnataka
Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
Munnar, Kerala
Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir
Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Gangtok, Sikkim
Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh

1. Darjeeling, West Bengal

Darjeeling, famously known as the ‘Queen of the Hills,’ is completely surrounded by green tea plantations and towering Kanchenjunga ranges. It takes its spot in the top 10 hill stations in India by remaining favourable for tourists consistently. The beautiful destination is perfect for vacationers and honeymooners. You might have heard people calling it a dream destination, and it definitely is. A ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railways can give you an amazing view of the lush greenery and majestic mountains of the region.

Altitude: 2,042 meters (6,700 feet)
Best sightseeing spots: Tiger Hill, Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Peace Pagoda, and Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park
Ideal duration: 3 to 4 days
Best time to visit: March to June and September to November

Planning for a Solo Trip? Checkout: A Guide for Solo Travel in India

2. Shillong, Meghalaya

Shillong is a picturesque hill station in the eastern part of India that you must not miss out on. Being one of the top ten hill station in India, it is nicknamed ‘Scotland of the East’ as it is similar to the Scottish Highlands. Shillong is absolutely a romantic spot to be; imagine witnessing a gorgeous sunset from the top of a mountain or walking through the Laitlum Canyons feeling the clouds near you. Not just that, the traditions, festivals, and the natives are amazing too.

Altitude: 1,491 meters (4,888 feet)
Best sightseeing spots: Umiam Lake, Elephant Falls, Shillong Peak, and Laitlum Canyons
Ideal duration: 2 to 3 days
Best time to visit: March to June and September to November

3. Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Manali feels like a magical land with its flowing streams, dense pine forests, and beautiful cottages surrounded by fog. The hill station is especially dreamy during winter, completely covered with snow. Ever wondered why it is known as the ‘Honeymoon Capital of India’? The landscapes are perfect in themselves, but the town also has activities that let people spend time together.

Altitude: 2,050 meters (6,726 feet)
Best sightseeing spots: Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, Hadimba Temple, and Beas River
Ideal duration: 4 to 5 days
Best time to visit: March to June

If Hill Station is your choice, Then Checkout: Best Treks in India

4. Coorg, Karnataka

Coorg is referred to as the ‘Scotland of India’ for its incredible natural beauty and rich culture. It is a great getaway destination to escape from the heat or the bustling city life. It is famous for its coffee cultivation and impressive waterfalls. Coorg is definitely a treat for your eyes and an experience that you will never forget. Take a dip in the waterfalls and go on a wildlife safari, or just relax at a serene cottage; the choice is yours, but the vacation is worth it anyhow.

Altitude: 1,170 meters (3,839 feet)
Best sightseeing spots: Abbey Falls, Madikeri Fort, Namdroling Monastery, Nisargadhama, and Iruppu Falls.
Ideal duration: 3 to 4 days
Best time to visit: October to March

5. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand

Mussoorie is situated in the Himalayan Range of the Garhwal Hills and is one of the top 10 best hill stations in India. The mesmerising views of the Doon Valley and the snow-capped Himalayan peaks make this a paradise for nature lovers. It’s much more than a hill station; you will be in awe of the colonial architecture and age-old culture. Never skip shopping for unique products in the Tibetan Market or the Mall Road.

Altitude: 2,005 meters (6,580 feet)
Best sightseeing spots: Kempty Falls, Gun Hill, Mussoorie Lake, and Lal Tibba
Ideal duration: 2 to 3 days
Best time to visit: March to June

Checkout: Uttarakhand Travel Guide

6. Munnar, Kerala

Munnar seems like it is straight out of a postcard, as it shines with the unending tea plantations and rolling hills. It has pleasant weather and tranquil natural views that hold the capacity to calm your soul. It will unequivocally capture your hearts with its refreshing breeze, foggy mornings, mountain streams, and emerald green meadows. Something exotic about the town is that it has a rare plant called Neelakurinji that flowers only once every twelve years. Why don’t you take a break from your everyday routine and stroll through the tea plantations of Munnar?

Altitude: 1,600 meters (5,249 feet)
Best sightseeing spots: Mattupetty Dam, Eravikulam National Park, Attukal Waterfalls, and Top Station
Ideal duration: 3 to 4 days
Best time to visit: September to March

7. Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir

Srinagar is undoubtably one of the best tourist places in India (hill station), enticing tons of domestic as well as international travellers every year. Imagine being surrounded by high-altitude lakes and picturesque gardens; why don’t you make that a reality? Srinagar is a breathtaking mountainous region that is adorned with grassy meadows, flowery valleys, and beautiful rivers. The influences of Hinduism and Islamism are reflected in the architecture and cultural sites of the region.

Altitude: 1,585 meters (5,200 feet)
Best sightseeing spots: Dal Lake, Mughal Gardens, Hazratbal Shrine, and Shankaracharya Temple
Ideal duration: 4 to 5 days
Best time to visit: April to October

Checkout: Jammu and Kashmir Tourism

8. Ooty, Tamil Nadu

Ooty has always had a charming effect on anyone visiting the region. It is a serene hill station that lets you unwind and relax amidst the lush landscapes. Ooty, located in the Nilgiris, exudes its colonial past through quaint bungalows and heritage sites. It is a right fit for those expecting a leisure vacation in a charming hill town.

Altitude: 2,240 meters (7,350 feet)
Best sightseeing spots: Ooty Lake, Botanical Gardens, Doddabetta Peak, and Pykara Waterfalls
Ideal duration: 2 to 3 days
Best time to visit: April to June

9. Gangtok, Sikkim

The natural wonders and spiritual aura of Gangtok are unparalleled. You know what makes it interesting? It has the most beautiful view of Mt. Kanchenjunga, which is one of the highest peaks in the world. Gangtok is a space away from the hustle and bustle of cities, offering a peaceful retreat embedded with Tibetan culture. The top things you shouldn’t forget when in Gangtok are a cable car ride, paragliding from the top of mountains, and shopping at MG Marg.

Altitude: 1,650 meters (5,410 feet)
Best sightseeing spots: Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass, Rumtek Monastery, MG Road, and Baba Mandir
Ideal duration: 3 to 4 days
Best time to visit: March to June

10. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh

Tawang is a quaint hill town with glacial lakes and clear blue skies at the east end of India. It is one of the best Himalayan towns that has breathtaking views of the Himalayas, a 400-year-old monastery, and a war memorial. Visiting the region can be a distinctive experience in itself. To make your trip to Tawang a blast, do try the mouthwatering delicacies like thukpa and momos, buy handmade woollen garments, and take part in the local festivities.

Altitude: 3,048 meters (10,000 feet)
Best sightseeing spots: Tawang Monastery, Sela Pass, Bumla Pass, and Nuranang Waterfalls
Ideal duration: 4 to 5 days
Best time to visit: March to October

Now that you know the top hill stations with each of their highlights, get ready for your next vacation. We understand that you might be tempted to travel to all of these spots; no worries, just add them to your list and take it one at a time. The diversity of India makes it perfect for every kind of traveller to experience the mountainous regions as they want. Pick your favourite hill station and start planning your trip today!