20 Amazing Hill Stations near Delhi

Hill Stations Near Delhi

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A bustling hub of trade and commerce, the cultural confluence point of countless traditions and the core of India’s historical lineage, Delhi has its own reasons to be called the capital city. From presenting a hardcore party life to the young to offering some salubrious getaways to an overworked mass, this historic city holds something for everyone! Amongst all the escapades offered by this big-hearted city, hill stations hold a prominent place.

They not only introduce visitors to scenic undulating hills and mountains, but also take them to some of the most picturesque settlements amidst lush environs.

Some of the best hill stations around Delhi:

1) Dehradun

Image credit: Umesh Behari Mathur

Situated at an astounding height of 1,427 ft above the sea level, Dehradun is the capital city of Uttarakhand. One of the quaintest hill stations near Delhi, it is also the gateway to several other tourist destinations: Mussoorie, Auli, Haridwar, Rishikesh and Nainital. Pleasant climatic conditions and the scenic beauty of Dehradun attract a plenitude of visitors from across different corners of the world.

Attractions: Robber's Cave, Rajaji National Park, Central Braille Press, Forest Research Institute, Tapovan, Santala Devi Temple, Wadia Institue, Malsi Deer Park, Tapkeshwar Temple and Indian Military Academy

Activities: Temple Visit, Trekking, Wildlife Tours, Ice Skating and Sightseeing Tours.

Distance from Delhi: 239km

Best time to visit: Throughout the year

2) Lansdowne

Image credit: wikimedia

Nestled amidst scenic oak and lush pine forests, Lansdowne was a cantonment town that was originally known as Kaludanda. Founded by Lord Lansdowne, the Viceroy of India in 1887, it was later renamed after its founder. One of the more picturesque hills stations around Delhi, a visit to Lansdowne is a rejuvenating experience.

Attractions: Picturesque valleys, War Memorial, Tip and Top View Point, Santoshi Mata Temple, St. Mary's Church, panoramic views of the Himalayas

Activities: Trekking, mountaineering, bird watching, boating, paddling and jungle safari

Distance from Delhi: 249km

Best time to visit: Throughout the year

3) Nahan

Image credit: Biswarup Ganguly

Sitting atop the Shivalik Ranges, Nahan is a remote hill station in Himachal Pradesh. Popular for its calm and serene ambience, this is one of the hill stations near Delhi which still remains free from the hands of commercialization and is naturally adorned with alluring lakes, scenic peaks, evergreen forest ranges and a pleasant climate to boost.

Attractions: Dhaula Kuan, Paonta Sahib, Rajgarh, Suketi Fossil Park and Lytton Memorial

Activities: Wildlife Tours, Temple Visits, Trekking, Rock Climbing and Mountaineering

Distance from Delhi: 260km

Best time to visit: December to March

4) Mussoorie

Image credit: deepgoswami

Affectionately called the 'Queen of Hills', Mussoorie is located in the foothills of the Himalayas. While the mighty range adds to Mussoorie's alluring beauty and charm, its pleasant and delightful climate makes it one of the most sought after hill stations around Delhi and in the country as well. During a visit to this hilly retreat, one can enjoy the most panoramic views of the Shivalik ranges and the Doon Valley.

Attractions: Hills and Mountains, Waterfalls, Lakes, Heritage Buildings and the Mall

Activities: Trekking, Nature Walks, Bird Watching, Boating, Ropeway Rides and Waterfall Tours

Distance from Delhi: 270km

Best time to visit: March to June and September to November

[On this delectable food trail,experience the culinary side of Old Delhi and its spice markets]

5) Parwanoo

Image credit: Vendantlath

A scenic and quaint village located in the state border of Himachal Pradesh and Haryana, Parwanoo is the gateway to several neighbouring tourist destinations. Situated at the lower base of the Shivalik Ranges, this hill station entices its visitors with its charm and warm hospitality. It is also one of the largest fruit processing units in the country.

Attractions: Kasauli, Pinjore, Sabathu and Dagshai

Activities: Cable Car Ride, Trekking, Sightseeing and Outdoor Activities

Distance from Delhi: 272km

Best time to visit: October to May

6) Nainital

Image credit: wikimedia

Situated in the Kumaon foothills of the Himalayan ranges, Nainital is also known as the 'Lake District' of India. Also considered a pious place for Hindus, this is one of the most popular hill stations near Delhi due to its fascinating hills, picturesque plains, enjoyable climate and stunning lakes.

Attractions: Lakes, Temples, Eco Garden Cave, Mountain Peaks and View Points

Activities: Rock Climbing, Wildlife Tours, Temple Visits, Cable Car Rides and Trekking

Distance from Delhi: 278km

Best time to visit: March to June and October to February

[Check out some of the best tourist places in Delhi]

7) Kasauli

Image credit: Tahir Hashmi

Serene and tranquil, Kasauli is nestled amidst the misty and salubrious oak, pine and chestnut groves. Perched at a height of6,100 ft above the sea level, this hill station offers a nostalgic glimpse of the Victorian age from the British Raj in India.

Attractions: Baptist Church, Brewery, Sunrise and Sunset Points, Christ Church and Monkey Point

Activities: Campings, Sightseeing, Trekking, Paragliding, Nature Walks and Camping

Distance from Delhi: 300km

Best time to visit: March to November

8) Kanatal

Image credit: Guido-D90

Be it for a family vacation, weekend getawayor a fun trip with friends, the hidden valley of Kanatal will surely amaze you! Hidden from all the touches of the modern world, this scenic and evergreen hill station in Uttarakhand boasts of its pristine beauty, pleasant climate and stunnig views of the Himalayan Range.

Attractions: Shivpuri, Kodia Jungle, Dhanaulti and Tehri Dam

Activities: Adventure Camping, Trekking, Sightseeing and

Distance from Delhi: 300km

Best time to visit: All through the year

[Stroll through wholesale famous spice market that permeates with the sweet aroma of the seasonings - Authentic Delhi Cuisine Experience]

9) Ranikhet

Image credit: draskd

Also known as the 'Queens Land', Ranikhet is a pleasant hill station located in the Almora district of Uttarakhand. Bestowed with exotic species of flora and fauna, lofty mountain peaks and fascinating wildlife, this hilly retreat is located at a height of 1,869m above sea level and offers breathtaking views of the western peaks of the Himalayas.

Attractions: Rani Jheel, Army Museum, Jhula Devi Temple and Rama Mandir

Activities: Trekking, Fishing, Nature Walks, Golfing and Local Sightseeing Tours

Distance from Delhi: 341km

Best time to visit: March to October

10) Chail

Image credit: Utsav Verma

Home to the highest cricket ground in the world, Chail is located around 44km from Shimla. Known for its misty stance, lush forests, pleasant climate and historical significance, this hill station near Delhi was once the summer capital of the Maharaja of Patiala.

Attractions: World's Highest Cricket Ground, Chail Sanctuary, Military School and Gurudwara

Activities: Sightseeing and Outdoor Activities

Distance from Delhi: 347km

Best time to visit: April to July and September to November

11) Almora

Image credit: wikimedia

Perched gracefully at a height of 1,651m on the Garhwal Himalayas, Almora is one of the oldest hill stations near Delhi where one can enjoy a panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges. The peace and serenity that prevails in this hilly getaway got into the attention of dignitaries like Mahatma Gandhi and Swami Vivekananda.

Attractions: Temples, Museum, Lal Bazaar, Zero Valley, Hills and Valley

Activities: Trekking, Sightseeing, Temple Visits, Village Tours, Cultural and Nature Walks.

Distance from Delhi: 349km

Best time to visit: March to November

12) Shimla

Image credit: Bjørn Christian Tørrissen

The capital of Himachal Pradesh, Shimla was once the summer capital of the country. Located around 2,205m above the sea level, this hill station was one of the most celebrated summer escapades of the British officials. Its fascinating snow-clad peaks, picturesque valleys and phenomenal climate make it one of the most popular hill stations around Delhi.

Attractions: Christ Church, Anand Vilas, Chali, Temples, Waterfalls, Scandal Point and Museum

Activities: Sightseeing, Ice Skating, Toy Train Ride, Church Visit, Hiking and Local Shopping

Distance from Delhi: 358km

Best time to visit: October to June

[Catch the pulse of the dynamic city life as you saunter through the vibrant streets - Heritage Walk, Delhi]

13) Kufri

Image credit: Biswarup Ganguly

Situated only 13km from Shimla, Kufri is yet another pictorial hill station in Himachal Pradesh. Well connected to Delhi, it is one of the most sought after winter destinations in India. Nature and wildlife lovers can satiate their yearnings for a delightful holiday here in Kufri.

Attractions: Kufri Fun World, Mahasu Peak, Indira Tourist Parks and Kufri Zoo

Activities: Adventure Sports, Yak Safari, Nature Tours and Zoo Visits

Distance from Delhi: 372km

Best time to visit: November to February

14) Kausani

Image credit: Utkarshsingh

Kausani is indeed one of the best places to enjoy the panoramic views of the Himalayas and its enthralling peaks. On a clear day, this hill station offers mesmeric views of paramount peaks namely Nanda Devi, Trishul and Panchachuli. It is located in the Bageshwar district of Uttarakhand and attains a height of 1,890m.

Attractions: Pant Museum, Anashakti Museum, Rudradhari Waterfalls and Tea Gardens

Activities: Trekking, Tea Plantation Visits, Sightseeing, Temple and Ashram Visits

Distance from Delhi: 401km

Best time to visit: July to September and December to February

15) Dharamshala

Image credit: Sonium

Dharamshala, a scenic hill station that is embraced with the enchanting beauty of the conifer and oak groves, snow clad peaks, lush mountains and several trekking routes. Located in the Dhauladhar Range, this hill station is also one of the headquarters of His Holiness Dalai Lama.

Attractions: Waterfalls, Temples, Masrur, Jama Masjid, McLeodganj and Dal Lake

Activities: Trekking, Sightseeing, Bird Watching, Cycling and Horse Riding

Distance from Delhi: 487km

Best time to visit: January to June and September to December.

16) Palampur

Image credit: Shashanksherma2511

The picturesque and lush tea estates in Palampur boasts of the title 'Tea Capital of North India'. In addition to this, the charming atmosphere and the scenic appeal of this hill station makes it a popular retreat in Himachal Pradesh. Its meticulous beauty is completed by the fact - it is a confluence point of the hills along with the plains!

Attractions: Sourabh Van Vihar, Temples, Tea Estates and Nature Parks

Activities: Tea Plantation Tours, Trekking, Sightseeing, Paragliding, Angling and Picnics

Distance from Delhi: 505 Kms

Best time to visit: September to June

[Unravel the eclectic and bustling streets of Delhi through an exhilarating bicycle ride tour - Bicycle Experience]

17) Manali

Image credit: Chandramohan BV

The highest point in the Kullu-Manali Valley, this is one of the most favoured hill stations near Delhi. Located on the Beas River Valley, it rises up to a height of 6,260ft above the sea level. Capped by a uniform layer of snow, it is amongst the best skiing destinations in India.

Attractions: Rohtang Pass, Tibetan Monasteries, Solang Valley, Temples and Beas Kund

Activities: Paragliding, Zorbing, Mountaineering, Trekking, Monastery Visits and Temple Tours

Distance from Delhi: 550km

Best time to visit: September to June

18) Dalhousie

Image credit: Srini G

Standing the test of time, Dalhousie has successfully preserved its old world charm and appeal. Comprising of five different hills - Kathalagh, Potreyn, Terah, Bakrota and Bhangora, it is the gateway to the picturesque Chamba Valley and is known for its mesmeric beauty, pleasant climate and snow covered mountain peaks.

Attractions: Subhash Baoli, Khajjiar, Bara Pathar, Baktora Hills, Tibetan Marke and Kalatope

Activities: Trekking, Lake Visits, Temple Tours, Cultural Visits, Village Tours and Boat Rides

Distance from Delhi: 565km

Best time to visit: May to September

19) Chamba

Image credit: Abhishekjoshi

In addition to the alluring beauty of the tiny hill station of Chamba are the river Ravi and the lofty mountains posing as the backdrop. Situated in Himachal Pradesh, the history of this quaint town dates back to the 2nd century. Legend has it that Chamba is named after 'Champavati', the daughter of Raja Sahil Varman.

Attractions: Rang Mahal, Chaugan, Akhand Chandi Palace, Saho, Chhatrari and Temples

Activities: Trekking, Rafting, Cultural Tours, Temple Visits, Horse Riding and Rock Climbing

Distance from Delhi: 572km

Best time to visit: April to October

20) Auli

Image credit: Mandeep Thander

Surrounded by picture-perfect coniferous oak forest ranges, Auli boasts of being home to the longest cable-car ride in Asia; 4km. Located at a height of 3,049m above the sea level, this pristine hill station is also a popular skiing destination in India. The misty slopes in here are ideal for expert as well as amateur skiers.

Attractions: Tapova, Vishnu Prayag, Joshimath, Badrinath and Skiing Festival

Activities: Skiing, Cable Car Ride, Trekking and Pilgrimage

Distance from Delhi: 500km

Best time to visit: Throughout the year

No matter what time of the year it is, hill stations never cease to offer the perfect respite to visitors. Also, since all of these retreats are well connected with Delhi, they are easily accessible from within the city. Plan a vacation with your family members, friends or colleagues in any one of these destinations and you will be pleased with memories to be cherished forever!

By Abhishek Last updated Jul 01,2015