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30 Stunning Mountains in India You Need to See

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1.the majestic himalayas.

The Majestic Himalayas. Saroj Pandey , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

2. Uttarakhand’s Peaks

3. himachal’s peaks.

Himachal’s Peaks. Mike Shaw , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

4. Uttarakhand’s Temple-Capped Mountains

Kedarnath vi Prateek as a traveller , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commonsew.

5.Kerala’s Unexpected Mountains

6. uttarakhand’s emerald green valley.

Emerald Green Valley. Hari Prasad Sridhar , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

7. Ladakh’s Moonscapes

Pangong Lake. Hritik412000 , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

8. Zanskar Valley’s Chadar Trek

Zanskar River. Bernard Gagnon , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

9. Uttarakhand Temple Trekking

10. offbeat trails in sikkim, 11. darjeeling’s british-era hill station appeal.

Queen of Hill Stations. Shivam8897 , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

12. The Western Ghats’ Hill Stations

13. uttarakhand’s kumaon region.

Kumaon Region. Bheinskitang , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

14. Tamil Nadu’s Stone Temples & Forts

15. the nilgiris (blue mountains).

The Nilgiris (Blue Mountains). Animish Phatak , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

16. Maharashtra’s Fort Treks

17. kashmir’s alpine treks.

Kashmir’s Alpine Treks. AdilAru , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

18. Off the Beaten Path in Arunachal Pradesh

19. mountains of the angami nagas, 20. hidden gems in assam.

Haflong Hill Station. Abhinav Phangcho Choudhury , CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

21. The Aravallis: Rajasthan’s Ancient Mountains

22. meghalaya’s living root bridges.

Meghalaya’s Living Root Bridges ANKAN , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons.

23. Multi-State Adventure Festivals

24. mawphor music festival, 25. peninsular india’s hill forests, 26. shembaganur museum of natural history, 27. kinner kailash.

Kinner Kailash. Goutam1962 , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

28. Rudugaira

29. the pir panjal range.

The Pir Panjal Range. Sridhar Rao , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

30. The Chandra Bhaga Range

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• 60 Best Hill Stations In India In 2024 That You Must Explore At Least Once In Your Life!

Sick of the summer sun? Do you want to wake up instead under the clear blue sky with the cooling hills surrounding you? Ditch the city and head to the best hill stations in India to spend your days strolling the beautiful greenery and next to a soothing lake or staring at the scenic mountains. If hill stations make you scream with joy, then India is the perfect destination for you. Slide away to the hills and get ready to have a memorable and unforgettable vacation amidst with your family and friends!

60 Best Hill Stations In India Of 2024

Have a look at some of the best hill stations in India perfect for a wonderful and memorable vacation with your family and friends, or even for a solo escapade. These best hill stations in India are bound to take you on a journey that will leave you speechless.

• Srinagar,  Jammu & Kashmir
• Pahalgam,  Jammu & Kashmir
• Gulmarg,  Jammu & Kashmir
• Manali,  Himachal Pradesh
• Khajjiar,  Himachal Pradesh
• Keylong,  Himachal Pradesh
• Bir Billing,  Himachal Pradesh
• Shimla,  Himachal Pradesh
• McLeodganj,  Himachal Pradesh
• Almora,  Uttarakhand
• Nainital,  Uttarakhand
• Auli,  Uttarakhand
• Kausani,  Uttarakhand
• Chopta,  Uttarakhand
• Tawang,  Arunachal Pradesh
• Bomdila,  Arunachal Pradesh
• Mirik,  West Bengal
• Darjeeling,  West Bengal
• Kalimpong,  West Bengal
• Champhai,  Mizoram
• Aizawl,  Mizoram
• Gangtok,  Sikkim
• Pelling,  Sikkim
• Shillong, Meghalaya
• Cherrapunji,  Meghalaya
• Mount Abu,  Rajasthan
• Wilson Hills,  Gujarat
• Saputara,  Gujarat
• Pachmarhi,  Madhya Pradesh
• Amarkantak,  Madhya Pradesh
• Panchgani,  Maharasthra
• Matheran,  Maharashtra
• Mahabaleshwar,  Maharashtra
• Amboli,  Maharashtra
• Daringbadi,  Orissa
• Coorg,  Karnataka
• Kudremukh,  Karnataka
• Agumbe,  Karnataka
• Araku Valley,  Andhra Pradesh
• Ananthagiri Hills,  Andhra Pradesh
• Horsley Hills,  Andhra Pradesh
• Lambasingi,  Andhra Pradesh
• Munnar,  Kerala
• Thekkady, Kerala
• Ooty ,  Tamil Nadu
• Kodaikanal ,  Tamil Nadu
• Yercaud  ,  Tamil Nadu
• Kotagiri ,  Tamil Nadu
• Kolli Hills ,  Tamil Nadu
• Meghamalai,  Tamil Nadu
• Ladakh,  Jammu & Kashmir
• Mussoorie,  Uttarakhand
• Lonavala,  Maharashtra
• Dharamshala,  Himachal Pradesh
• Chikmagalur,  Karnataka
• Valparaj,  Tamil Nadu
• Champawat,  Uttarakhand
• Kurseong,  West Bengal
• Joginder Nagar ,  Himachal Pradesh
• Dharamkot,  Himachal Pradesh

1. Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir

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Srinagar is without a doubt one of the best hill stations in North India. It boats natural allure, historic gardens, mosques, and much more. Thrill seekers, nature lovers, and wildlife enthusiasts alike can have a wholesome experience in the paradise. All in all, Srinagar offers a romantic and family retreat.

Best Experiences: Get enchanted by the beautiful Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh , the botanical gardens during the popular Tulip festival and Badamwari Garden to see the almond trees in full bloom. Make a visit to the tranquil Shankaracharya Mandir, the beautiful Khanqah Shah-i-Hamadan mosque and Pari Mahal. Lastly, spend a day exploring life on Dal lake and Nigeen lake. It is among the coldest hill stations in India during winter. Best Time To Visit : April to October Ideal Duration: Visit for a minimum of 4 days for a good trip. How To Reach: Take a flight directly to the Srinagar International Airport. Take the train to Jammu followed by a taxi or a J&K State Road Transport Corporation bus to Srinagar. Things To Do: Trekking, Birdwatching Places To Stay: Four Points, S Group Of Houseboat, Hotel Fabulous Kashmir, Radisson Srinagar, Hotel Ashai

Must Read: Things To Carry While Travelling To Hill Station

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2. Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir

Characterized by gurgling rivers and snow peaks all around, Pahalgam makes a poster perfect hill station in India in summer.

Best Experiences: Whilst here, visit the three sites of Chandanwari, Betaab Valley, and Aru Valley. Go for a pony ride to the beautiful Dabian and Baisaran which are surrounded by thick forests and snow-covered mountains. These are among the top 40 hill stations in India. Go white water rafting down the Lidder River. Other prominent tourist spots are Tarsar Lake, Sun Temple, and Mamaleshwar Temple. This is one of the famous hill stations in India. Best Time To Visit : March to June Ideal Duration: Visit for a minimum of 2 days for a good trip. How To Reach: Take a flight directly to the Srinagar International Airport followed by a 2.5 hour taxi ride. Things To Do: Sightseeing, Camping, River Rafting Places To Stay: Heevan Pahalgam, Eden Resorts & Spa, Premier Pahalgam, Hotel island pahalgam, Hotel Alpine K2

3. Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir

Literally meaning the ‘meadow of flowers’, Gulmarg is known for its unparalleled natural beauty. It is a popular ski destination during winters. Gulmarg boasts pine forests and wild flowers, thereby making a breathtaking summer trip too. The picturesque surroundings and calm auro of the destination has made it the King of Hill Stations in India.

Best Experiences: Visit the Ningle Nallah, originating from the melting snow of the Apharwat peak and get enamored by the aerial view of the Himalayan peaks from the Gondola Lift. Other great locations are Lien Marg, the pristine and medicinal waters of Verinag, the Biosphere Reserve of Gulmarg and Alpather Lake. Thus, Gulmarg is one of the most beautiful top most hill stations in India. Best Time To Visit : March to June Ideal Duration: Visit for a minimum of 3 days for a good trip. How To Reach: Take a flight directly to the Srinagar International Airport followed by a 3-hour taxi ride. Things To Do: Skiing, Gondola Ride, Trekking Places To Stay: Heevan Retreat Gulmarg, Hotel Affarwat, Nedous Hotel Gulmarg, The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa, The Rosewood

Suggested Read: Taj Mahal

4. Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Manali is popular for its scenic beauty, flowery gardens, snow-capped mountains, and orchards of red and green apples. It is one of the best hill stations in India in May and June. This is one of the highest hill stations in India. Thus, do not forget to miss this surreal destination at least once in a lifetime.

Best Experiences: Visit the Rohtang Pass, the highest point on the Manali-Keylong Road. Some of the other great spots are Kalath Hot Water Springs, Vashist Hot Water Springs, Jogini Falls, and Solang Valley. Best Time To Visit : October to February Ideal Duration: Plan for a 4 day trip to one of the famous hill stations in Himachal to visit in May. How To Reach: Fly to Bhuntar airport followed by a 2 hour taxi or bus ride. Or take the Himachal Pradesh State bus from Delhi to Manali (553 km) which takes 10 hours. Things To Do: Ride A Yak, Bike Ride, Rafting Places To Stay: Solang Valley Resort, Hotel Mountain Top, Apple Country Resorts, Royal Hadimba Palace Manali, The Orchard Greens

5. Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh

Nestled amidst green surroundings, Khajjiar is famous for its meadows and ethereal beauty. In the haven, nature lovers and adventurers can have a wholesome experience. From trekking to camping, tourists can indulge in many adventurous activities. So, what are you waiting for? Visit Khajjar, the best hill stations in India.

Best Experiences: Visit the Khajjiar Lake, fed by streams and situated amidst the cedar forests. Other prominent places to visit are the Khajji Nag Temple, the Khalatop Wildlife Sanctuary and the villages of Rota, Ladi known for their apple orchards. This is a much famous hill station in India which makes you explore its impeccable beauty.  Best Time To Visit : October to March Ideal Duration: Visit for 3 days for a perfect holiday. How To Reach: Take a flight till Gaggal Airport (180 km) or Pathankot Airport (80 km) and board a Taxis to reach Khajjiar. Take a train till Pathankot Airport (80 km) and a taxi from there. Things To Do: Zorbing, Jungle Safari, Trekking Places To Stay: Mystic Village, Cozy Swiss Meadows, Heart Beat Resort, Kailash island view, Pir Panjal

Suggested Read: 39 Places To Visit In Varanasi

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Avneet Describes Her Trip To Spiti With A Group Of Strangers That Became Friends

Sightseeing. Monasteries. Trekking. And beauty all along

6. Keylong, Himachal Pradesh

Popularly known as the ‘Land of Monasteries’, Keylong is a beautiful tourist destination. It boasts archaic mountain ranges along with lush green valleys, making it one of thebest hill stations in India to visit.

Best Experiences: Visit the Kardang Monastery and the Shashur Monastery, the village of Sissu located on the banks of the River Chandra, the Baralacha La, the Pin Valley National Park and Ancient Fort at Gondla. Best Time To Visit : February to June Ideal Duration: Visit for a minimum of 3 days for a good trip. How To Reach: Take a flight directly to the Bhuntar Airport in Kullu Manali (175 km) followed by a 5-hour taxi ride. Or take the train to Joginder Nagar railway station (250 km) followed by a 7-hour taxi ride. Places To Stay: Tandi Sarai, BLUE PINE CAMPS, TIH Siramani River Camp, Gemoor Khar- Manor House, Jispa Journey Camp

7. Bir Billing, Himachal Pradesh

Situated amidst tea gardens and forests in the foothills of the Indian Himalayas, Bir-Billing is a popular coastal place. Over time, this place has emerged as a famous hill station in India due to its scenic beauty and tranquil ambience. Bir Billing is often dubbed the ‘Paragliding Capital of India’. So, if you wish to do paragliding, you know where to go. Adventurers worldwide flock to this extraordinary place to soar through the skies and use its favourable weather conditions as an opportunity to enjoy paragliding.

Best Experiences: Soar high and enjoy the untouched scenic locations and verdant landscapes, go camping to enjoy the view of Kangra Valley and Beas Valley. Also, visit the beautiful Chokling Monastery and the Palpung Sherab Ling Monastery in the Tibetan town of Bir. Best Time To Visit : April to June Ideal Duration: Visit for a minimum of 4 days for a good trip. How To Reach: Take a flight directly to Dharamshala airport followed by a 45-minute taxi ride. Or take the train to Pathankot followed by a narrow gauge railway to Bir. Places To Stay: CBB – Camp Bir Billing, Connect, The Hosteller Bir, Shivirama, Katoch Homestay

Suggested Read: 25 Hill Stations Near Shimla

8. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

Also known as ‘The Summer Refuge’ Shimla is famous for the colonial heritage buildings and British architecture on display. This combined with the natural beauty makes it a perfect destination for a summer trip in North India. Regarded as one of the premier hill stations with airport in India, Shimla should be on your bucket list. This is believed to be the best hill station in north India.

Best Experiences: See various species of birds at the Himalayan Aviary, enjoy a quiet picnic at Glenn next to a captivating stream and the beautiful Dorje Drak Monastery. Other prominent sites include Solan Brewery, Darlaghat, Scandal Point, Kamna Devi Temple, Jakhu Hill, and Gurkha Gate. Best Time To Visit : November and February Ideal Duration: Visit for a minimum of 3 days for a good trip. How To Reach: Take a flight directly to Jubbarhatti in Shimla. Or take the train to Kalka followed by a 2-hour taxi ride. Things To Do: Toy Train Ride, Rafting Places To Stay: Larisa Resort Shimla, Meena Bagh Shimla, Adiv Hotels, Broadway Grand Shimla, S&M appartment bir Khana

9. Mcleodganj, Himachal Pradesh

The Tibetan town of McLeodganj is a great spot for a holiday at any time of the year. Surrounded by snow-capped hills and with a number of beautiful monasteries, it is one of the most popular hill stations in India with snowfall.

Best Experiences: Visit the Tibet Museum inside of the Tsuglagkhang Complex and the charming waterfall in Bhagsu. Go for a hike to the tiny camp of Triund for the incredible view of the Himalayan peaks. Best Time To Visit : October to February Ideal Duration: Visit for a minimum of 2 days for a good trip. How To Reach: Take a flight to Gaggal Airport (20 kms) followed by a 45 minute taxi ride. Buses from ISBT Anand Vihar run to Mcleodganj in 10 hours. Things To Do: Boat ride, Camping Places To Stay: Shalom Backpackers McLeodganj, Hotel Norbu House, La Vaca India McLeodganj, Hotel Shiva Sanctuary, Hotel King Castle

Suggested Read: Reasons To Visit Mcleodganj This Summer

10. Almora, Uttarakhand

Perched on a horse saddle shaped ridge, Almora is a popular hill station in India where you can enjoy the panoramic view of the snow-capped peaks of the mighty Himalayas.

Best Experiences: Visit the Bright End Corner for a beautiful sunrise and sunset and enjoy a quiet picnic at the beautiful Simtola or Martola which covered with pine and fir trees. In addition, visit the Deer Park home to deer, leopard, and the Himalayan black bears. Some other popular tourist attractions of the place include Gobind Ballabh Pant Public Museum and the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary. Best Time To Visit : April to June Ideal Duration: Visit for a minimum of 3 days for a good trip. How To Reach: Take a flight to Pantnagar (115 km) followed by a 3 hour taxi ride. Or take the train to Kathgodam (81 km) followed by a 2.5-hour taxi ride. Buses from ISBT Anand Vihar run to Almora in 12 hours. Things To Do: Trekking, Sightseeing Places To Stay: Stars & Pines, Hotel Kausani Retreat, Kasar Himalaya Holiday Home, Shukun Homestay in Almora, Home Stay in Uttarakhand

11. Nainital, Uttarakhand

Located in the Himalayan Belt amidst the Kumaon Hills and blessed with beautiful lakes, Nainital is amongst the list of top hill stations in India in May and June. The lush green oak, pine, and rhododendron forests make it a perfect destination to relax amidst nature.

Best Experiences: Go for a picnic at the beautiful Kilbury or The Tiffin Top. Visit the Land’s End to enjoy the mesmerizing views of Khurpatal Lake and trek the Naina Peak, the highest peak of Nainital. Best Time To Visit : March to June Ideal Duration: Visit for a minimum of 3 days for a good trip. How To Reach: Take a flight to Pantnagar (72 kms) followed by a 1.5 hour taxi ride. Or take the train to Kathgodam (41 kms) followed by a 1 hour taxi ride. Buses from ISBT Anand Vihar run to Nainital in 9 hours. Places To Stay: The kumaoni karavan, Conifers Villa, J Resort Dolmar Nainital, Fern Villas, Pragati Resort

Suggested Read: 15 Best Things To Do In Nainital

12. Auli, Uttarakhand

Auli is a beautiful tourist spot which is famous for skiing all across the country. This scenic place is known for its oak edged slopes and verdant coniferous forests. Auli is amongst the best hill stations in India as it offers surreal landscapes and tranquil ambience to tourists and locals alike.

Best Experiences: Visit Nandaprayag, a popular attraction of Auli which is situated at the meeting point of the River Alaknanda and Mandakini. Also see the natural spring in the village of Saildhar Tapovan, the Auli Artificial Lake, and the Chattarkund Lake. Travel on the Gondola for a beautiful aerial view of the place. Best Time To Visit : November to March Ideal Duration: Visit for a minimum of 4 days for a good trip. How To Reach: Take a flight directly to the Jolly Grant Airport (279 kms) followed by a 5 hour taxi ride. Or take the 8 hour bus to Joshimath situated at a distance of 16 kms from Auli. Things To Do: Skiing, Shopping, Hiking Places To Stay: Dwarika, Barahbeesh Villa, Kanasar Ecolodge, Apple Farm Stay, Zostel Homes, LivingStone Ojuven Treehouses

13. Kausani, Uttarakhand

The beautiful destination of Kausani lies along the mighty Himalayas and is situated amidst dense pine trees. Kausani overlooks the beautiful valleys of Someshwar, Garur and Baijnath Katyuri, that makes it one of the top 60 hill stations in India.

Best Experiences: Go for the popular trekking options such as Sunder Dhunga Trek, Pindari Glacier Trek, and Milam Glacier Trek. Other attractions present here are the beautiful Rudradhari Waterfalls and a visit to the Kausani Tea Gardens and the pear orchards. Best Time To Visit : April to June Ideal Duration: Visit for a minimum of 3 days for a good trip. How To Reach: Take a flight to Pantnagar (165kms) followed by a 4 hour taxi ride. Or take the train to Kathgodam (132 kms) followed by a 3 hour taxi ride. Buses from ISBT Anand Vihar run to Kausani in 11 hours. Things To Do: Dine at the Garden restaurant, Shopping Places To Stay: Aliya himalyan village, Hotel Deepraj, Xomotel Sunita Himalayan Paradise, Hotel Vishwanath, Rudhradhari Cottage

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Nalanda

14. Chopta, Uttarakhand

Also known as ‘Mini Switzerland’ owing to its breathtaking scenic beauty and lush green grasslands, known as Bugyals, Chopta provides a great escape from the hectic city life. Chopta is certainly a coveted addition to the list of hill stations in India.

Best Experiences: Get lost among the dense forest of Kedarnath Wild Life Sanctuary and visit the pristine Deoria Tal lake. Make a trip to the Kanchula Korak Musk Deer Sanctuary and Chandrashila, the mountain on which Tungnath Mandir is located. Best Time To Visit : March to May Ideal Duration: Visit for a minimum of 3 days for a good trip. How To Reach: Take a flight directly to the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun (221 km) followed by a 3.5-hour taxi ride. Or take the train to Rishikesh followed by a 3.5-hour taxi ride. Things To Do: Trekking, Camping Places To Stay: Villotale Chopta CHC, Akashdeep Resort Chopta, Hotel Govind, Dwarahat house

15. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh

Breathtaking valleys, misty rivers, and stunning waterfalls give you the ultimate experience in the mystical Tawang. It exudes a coastal town charm along with a pleasant atmosphere. Whether you are with family or friends, you can have the best time here.

Best Experiences: Visit the snow-clad Sela Pass for a spectacular view and stop over at the beautiful Paradise Lake on your way there. Make a trip to the Tawang Monastery, the largest monastery in India. Other destinations are Gorichen Peak, the Shonga-tser Lake, Pankang Teng Tso Lake, Bap Teng Kang Waterfall, and Nuranang Waterfalls. Best Time To Visit : March to June, September and October Ideal Duration: Visit for a minimum of 4 days for a good trip. How To Reach: Take a flight directly to the Salonibari Airport, Tezpur followed by a 6 hour taxi ride. Or take the train to Guwahati followed by a 13 hour taxi ride. Things To Do: Go Hiking, Visit Waterfalls Places To Stay: VAMOOSETRAIL TAWANG, VAMOOSETRAIL TAWANG(7), Hotel The Oak, Treebo Trip Yangsell, Hotel Ashoka

Suggested Read: 31 Reasons Why You Should Never Visit Northeast India

16. Bomdila, Arunachal Pradesh

Nestled amidst the scenic Eastern Himalayan ranges, Bomdila is a serene town known for its natural beauty and apple orchards which makes for a fabulous summer retreat. It is regarded as one of the best hill stations of India.

Best Experiences: Visit the Dirang Valley, a stunningly picturesque valley that lies between Bomdila and Tawang. Make a trip to the Buddhist Monasteries of Lower Gompa, Middle Gompa, and Upper Gompa. Other great spots include the Sessa Orchid Sanctuary on the banks of River Bharali, the Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary and the Kameng Elephant Reserve. Best Time To Visit: April to October Ideal Duration: Visit for a minimum of 3 days for a good trip. How To Reach: Take a flight directly to the Tezpur Airport and a 6-hour bus or taxi ride from there. Or take the train to Rangapara followed by a bus or taxi ride. Things To Do: Paragliding, Trekking Places To Stay: Hotel Tashi Den, HOTEL DILLIPHU, Pangchen Lodge, Anu homestay, Chharit Hotel

17. Mirik, West Bengal

Surrounded by an undulated carpet of tea estates, orange orchards, cardamom plantations and dark Japanese cedars Mirik is a charming hill station in North-East India, It provides a wonderful view of the striking Kanchenjunga.

Best Experiences: Visit the popular Sumendu Lake followed by the Tea gardens producing the famous Darjeeling tea. Also make a trip to the Orange orchards, the Bokar Monastery, and the Buddhist meditation center. Best Time To Visit: March, April, October and November Ideal Duration: Visit for a minimum of 3 days for a good trip. How To Reach: Take a flight directly to the Bagdogra Airport followed by a 1-hour taxi ride. Or take the train to New Jalpaiguri followed by a 1-hour taxi ride. Places To Stay: Lake View Villa, Golden Sunview Homestay, Titung Orange Grove Homestay, Vamoose Sunakhari, Lingden’s Farm

Suggested Read: 9 Places To Visit In West Bengal In June

18. Darjeeling, West Bengal

The hugely commercial but equally breathtaking Darjeeling boasts of snowcapped peaks and endless tea gardens. Spend your days here exploring the colonial-era architecture, visiting Buddhist monasteries, and of course sampling the fabulous tea.

Best Experiences: Visit a tea estate such as the Happy Valley Tea Estate, take a toy train ride through the Batasia Loop and War Memorial, watch the spectacular Khangchendzonga from the Tiger Hill and spend an afternoon at the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and Museum. Other great destinations here are the Observatory hill, Buddhist monasteries in Ghum and the Japanese Peace Pagoda. Best Time To Visit: March to May Ideal Duration: Visit for a minimum of 4 days for a good trip. How To Reach: Take a flight directly to the Bagdogra Airport lowed by a 4 hour taxi ride. Or take the train to New Jalpaiguri followed by a 4 hour taxi. Things To Do: Go River Rafting, Trekking Places To Stay: Tinchuley Ratna Vajra Vatika Resort, Summit Hermon Hotel & Spa , Darjeeling homestay Mangkhim, Summit Swiss Heritage Hotel & Spa

19. Kalimpong, West Bengal

Snow-capped peaks and lush greenery dominate the horizon at this wonderfully placed hill station in North East India. In addition, it is a much quieter version of the close-by Darjeeling.

Best Experiences: Head to the Lepcha Museum or the Zang Dhol Palri Phodang monastery for a look into the Buddhist culture. Spend a day amidst nature in the Neora Valley National Park located on one of the best hill stations of India. Other well-known attractions present here are the colonial Morgan House, Cactus nursery and the Rishi Bankim Chandra Park. Best Time To Visit: March to May Ideal Duration: Visit for a minimum of 3 days for a good trip How To Reach: Take a flight directly to the Bagdogra Airport followed by a 3-hour taxi ride. Or take the train to New Jalpaiguri followed by a 3-hour taxi. Things To Do: Witness The Wildlife, Visit The Lepcha Heritage Museum Places To Stay: Hotel Aashiyana, Hotel Paradiso, Holumba Haven, PaliGhar Farmstay

Suggested Read: 7 Places To Visit In Summer In West Bengal

20. Champhai, Mizoram

Overlooking the majestic Myanmar hills, adorned with culture and tradition and popularly known as the ‘Rice Bowl of Mizoram’, Champhai is one best places to visit in Northeast India that cannot be missed.

Best Experiences: Visit the famous Murlen National Park for its subtropical forests and animals such as hoolock gibbon, Himalayan black bear, and leopard, certain species you can find only in the top most hill stations in India. Spend a lazy afternoon at the heart-shaped lake of Rih Dil and explore the caves of Kungawrhi Puk. Some of the other tourist destinations present here are the Mura Puk caves, Thasiama Seno Neihna hill, and the Lengteng Wildlife Sanctuary. Best Time To Visit: June – September Ideal Duration: Visit for a minimum of 3 days for a good trip. How To Reach: Take a flight directly to Lengpui Airport near Aizawl followed by a 7-hour taxi ride. Places To Stay: HOTEL HRANGA PLAZA, Hotel Hranga Plaza Saver, VAMOOSETRAIL CHAWNGTLAI

21. Aizawl, Mizoram

The century-year-old city, flanked by the majestic peaks of Durtlang and the beautiful Tlawng River is perfect for a relaxed and unhurried holiday.

Best Experiences: Make a visit to the lush Tlawng River that cascades down the valley. Take a leisurely boat ride on the Tamdil Lake and go fishing on the Chhimtuipui River in Saiha. Also visit Vantawang, the highest waterfall of Mizoram and Phawngpui, the highest peak in Mizoram famous for orchids, rhododendrons, mountain goats and butterflies. Best Time To Visit: March to May Ideal Duration: Visit for a minimum of 3 days for a good trip. How To Reach: Take a flight directly to the Aizawl Airport. Or take the train to Silchar which is only 130 Kms from Aizawl followed by a taxi. Places To Stay: ZOBAWM Homestay, LUSHAIHILLS RESIDENCY, Aizawl Guest House HomeStay Ensuite & View, Hotel Chhungte International, The 1998 Homestay

Suggested Read: North East Trip

22. Gangtok, Sikkim

Bound by the lush green forests and located on the Shivalik Hills Gangtok is a must see place while visiting the North-east part of the country. Gangtok is one of the best hill stations in India for honeymoon that you should add to your list.

Best Experiences: Visit Tsomgo Lake and Gurudongmar Lake, the two most scenic and highest mountain lakes in the world, making this one of the best hill tourist places in India. Also, make a trip to the historical Nathula Pass. Some of the other prominent points are Fambong La Wildlife Sanctuary, Enchey Monastery, Rumtek Monastery, and Tashiding Monastery. Best Time To Visit: October to mid-December Ideal Duration: Visit for a minimum of 4 days for a good trip. How To Reach: Take a flight directly to the Bagdogra Airport followed by a 2.5-hour taxi ride. Or take the train to New Jalpaiguri followed by a 2.5-hour taxi ride. Things To Do: Cable Ride, Yak Safari Places To Stay: The Golden Crest, Tsechu Homestay, Gangtok View Villa, FabHotel Temi Residency, Hotel Shere-E-Punjab

23. Pelling, Sikkim

The snow-capped mountains, panoramic and rich history and the view from the hilltops make Pelling a sought after travel destination in the state of Sikkim.

Best Experiences: Sightseeing here combines mountains, lakes, waterfalls, and monasteries, out of which the Kanchenjunga Falls and Pemyangshi Pemayangtse Monastery are the most significant. Other must-see attractions are Changey Waterfall, Sewaro Rock Garden, Sangachoeling Monastery and Rabdentse Ruins. Best Time To Visit: September to May Ideal Duration: Visit for a minimum of 4 days for a good trip. How To Reach: Take a flight directly to the Bagdogra Airport followed by a 3 hour taxi ride. Or take the train to New Jalpaiguri followed by a 3 hour taxi ride. Things To Do: Visit Pemayangtse Monastery, Experience Sikkimese Hospitality Places To Stay: Hotel Snow View, The Elgin Mount Pandim , BluBen Alpine, Delight The Touristo, The Chumbi Mountain Retreat & Spa

Suggested Read: 43 Places To Visit When Travelling To North East

24. Shillong, Meghalaya

With lush green fields, picturesque landscapes, and sweet-smelling flowers, Shillong is all about natural beauty combined with colonial hospitality, making it an amazing hill station in North East India.

Best Experiences: Visit the Umaim lake created by the Umiam river and famous for water sports. Also, visit the rolling meadows of Shillong Golf Course bordered by pine trees and enjoy a boat ride on the Ward’s Lake. Other attractions here are the Shillong Peak, Elephant Falls, Sweet Falls, and the Lady Hydari Park. Best Time To Visit: September to May Ideal Duration: Visit for a minimum of 3 days for a good trip. How To Reach: Take a flight directly to the Shillong Airport in Umroi. Or take the train to Guwahati (104 km) followed by a 3-hour taxi. Things To Do: Visit The Umiam Lake, Enjoy The Elephant Falls Places To Stay: Mantra Guest House, Ha Sharing, Silver Brook Resort, S. S. HOME STAY, The Heritage Club – Tripura Castle

25. Cherrapunji, Meghalaya

Once the wettest land on Earth, Cherrapunji is blessed with mesmerizing hills, waterfalls and panoramic view of the Bangladesh plains, making a visit here no less than memorable.

Best Experiences: A trip here is incomplete without a trip to the Nohkalikai Falls, one of the tallest in the country. Enjoy visits to other waterfalls like Mawsmai Falls, Nohkalikai Falls, and Dain-Thlen Falls. Also, go for popular treks that lead to Double Decker Living Root bridge in Nongriat village. Best Time To Visit: October and May Ideal Duration: Visit for a minimum of 3 days for a good trip. How To Reach: Take a flight directly to the Cherrapunji Airport. Or take the train to Guwahati followed by a 4 hour taxi. Things To Do: River Canyoning, Boating Places To Stay: Ibankordor Jungle Resort, Vamoose Lalaiker, SAN NAEL LA RESORT, Four Season Homestay, Nalgre Guest House

Suggested Read: Deadly And Enticing Destinations In India For the Bravehearts

26. Mount Abu, Rajasthan

Mount Abu is the only hill station in Rajasthan situated close to the Aravali hills. One of the best times to visit this place is during the monsoon season when the lush green environment of the place can enchant you.

Best Experiences: The drive along Udaipur – Mount Abu highway is truly breathtaking. The hill station is famous for Dilwara temples, Nakki Lake and Peace Park. Do not forget to miss the gorgeous sunset at Sunset Point that makes it one of the best hill tourist places in India. Best Time To Visit: November to March Ideal Duration: Visit here for a minimum of 3 days for a good trip. How To Reach: Railway line from Ahmedabad to Marwar junction is available connecting passengers from Jaipur, Delhi or Jodhpur. Or plan a road trip from Udaipur which is 162 Kms. Things To Do: Sightseeing, Boating Places To Stay: Richi Valley Villa A Hill View Nature Stay, EMINENCE – Mount Abu, Hotel Aravali, Hotel Samiralok, The Colonial Manek Manor

27. Wilson Hills, Gujarat

Wilson Hills, Gujarat is located in a densely forested region. It is amongst the best hill stations in India frequented in the months of May, June, and July.

Best Experiences: Breathtaking panoramic views of the hills from the sunset point overlooking the Arabian Sea. If culture interests you, visit the Museum too. Wilson hills have pristine waterfalls in the monsoons. Best Time To Visit: July and August Ideal Duration: Visit here for a minimum of 2 days for a good trip. How To Reach: Nearest airport is in Surat at a distance of 125 Km. Buses are available from Mumbai/Surat to reach the hills. Places To Stay: Hotel Iris, VILLAS DE RESORET, Hotel Lake View, Artist Village

Suggested Read: 8 Places To Visit In Gujarat During Monsoon

28. Saputara, Gujarat

Saputara is a hill station town in Gujarat. The beautiful hill station in west India is perched in the Dang forest area of the Sahyadri Range.

Best Experiences: Visit Vansda National Park for exotic species and flora. Do not miss the refreshing morning sky at Sunrise Point in the Mahal region. Best Time To Visit: October to February Ideal Duration: Visit for 3 days for a good trip. How To Reach: Nearest airport is at Surat at a distance of 160 Kms and the nearest railway station is at Waghai at a distance of 52 Kms. State transport & luxury buses are also available for tourists. Things To Do: Go Boating, Explore Hatgadh Fort Places To Stay: VILLAS DE RESORET, Artist Village, Hotel Kansar Palace, Hotel Lake View, Skystays Sharmin Rose Cottage

29. Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh

Touted to be the Queen of Satpura, this quaint hill station in Madhya Pradesh is an ideal getaway for those looking for peace and solitude. Pachmarhi shares the history of Mahabharata; the small town is a popular tourist destination and among the best hill stations to visit in India.

Best Experiences: Apart from enjoying the salubrious weather, explore the local art here. There are caves and historical monuments for the adventurous history buffs. Best Time To Visit: October to June Ideal Duration: Visit here for a minimum of 3 days for a good trip. How To Reach: Nearest airport is in Bhopal at a distance of 212 Km. The hill station is also linked by road with frequent bus services available in Bhopal. Things To Do: Horse Riding, ATV Ride, Explore The Caves, Parasail On The Land Places To Stay: Rajvihar, Chunmun Cottage, Vamoose Hotel Satpura, MPT Amaltas, Hotel Arihant

Suggested Read: 40 Tourist Places In Madhya Pradesh

30. Amarkantak, Madhya Pradesh

A popular religious hill town of historical importance and thriving flora and fauna is a great weekend getaway. It is considered to be a sacred place by many. Experience the spiritual aspect of India here.

Best Experiences: Visit the historical temples and go for a nature walk in the Goddess Garden. Do not miss the breathtaking Kapil falls. Best Time To Visit: October to February Ideal Duration: Plan a visit here for 2 days. How To Reach: Nearest railway station is at Anuppur and Pendra Road at a distance of 60 Kms. The nearest airport is in Jabalpur at a distance of 230 Kms. Places To Stay: MPT Holiday Homes, Hotel Temple Tree, Hotel Pinaki Inn

31. Panchgani, Maharashtra

It is an ideal place for a pleasant vacation with your loved ones. Panchgani is located in the middle of the five hills. It is a popular tourist spot with lots of picnic activities to offer. This is one of the top hill stations in south India.

Best Experiences: Panchgani is a complete retreat to beat the summertime blues. Some of the major attractions are Table Land, Sydney Point, and Devil’s Kitchen. Best Time To Visit: S eptember, October, November, January, February, March, April and May Idea Duration: Visit here for a minimum of 2 day for a good trip How To Reach: Regular buses, taxis are available from Mumbai, Pune to reach Panchgani at 5-6 hours. Things To Do: Taste Fresh Strawberries At Mapro Garden, Go Boating Places To Stay: Hotel Malas, Swarnam villa and rhytham vila, Hotel Valley Nest, Krishna Valley Villa, EKO STAY (Gold)- ZEN VILLA

Suggested Read: Picnic Spots Near Mumbai In Summer

32. Matheran, Maharashtra

The smallest hill station in India, Matheran is a mesmerizing hill resort for a short trip. Matheran is a popular weekend getaway for urban residents as the enchanting view of the hill station can call for an enthralling experience.

Best Experiences: Trek to the Louisa Point for gorgeous views of the valley. Ride the toy train for a joy ride amidst the forested hills and indulge in adventure activities like flying fox. Best Time To Visit: October and May Ideal Duration: Plan a trip to matheran for 3 days for a good holiday. How To Reach: Buses are easily available from Mumbai, Pune since it is very close to the cities. Things To Do: Go For Waterfall Rappelling, Trekking Places To Stay: SaffronStays Parsi Manor, Mauli Niwas, Adamo The Village, Born4tours Lakeview homestay, Shri Sadan Cottage

33. Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra

Mahabaleshwar is a popular hill station in west India. It has unique sights to offer with historical stories that could make your trip insightful & full of fun. It is also the oldest hill station with an array of sightseeing opportunities like fresh climate, mountains and valleys. It’s among the best hill stations to visit in India for its beauty and charm. 

Best Experiences: Mahabaleshwar is famous for strawberries. Don’t forget to try them on your visit here. Indulge in lots of activities like boating, horse riding. Best Time To Visit: March to June Ideal Duration: Plan a trip here for 3 days. How To Reach: Mahabaleshwar is 263 Km from Mumbai and the journey takes around 5 hours via local transportation. Train services are also available with the nearest station being at Satara. Things To Do: Ride A Shikara, Jungle Trekking Places To Stay: Le Méridien Mahabaleshwar Resort & Spa, Gavson Palace, FabExpress Sagar villa Panchgani, Evershine Keys Resort

Suggested Read: 27 Fun Places In Pune

34. Amboli, Maharashtra

The ancient charm of this place with a blend of hill station vibes can be a good getaway for tourists looking out for a historical retreat in Amboli. Amboli is a hill station in the southern part of Maharashtra. It is a peaceful, unpolluted place for nature lovers.

Best Experiences: Begin your journey with a holy visit to the Shiva Temples. Sit beside the breathtaking Amboli waterfalls and nature walk in the Amboli Jungle. Best Time To Visit: October and February Ideal Duration: Visit here for a minimum of 3 days for a good trip. How To Reach: Amboli is well connected via road. Buses are available from Kolhapur, Panjim. Places To Stay: Dark Forest Retreat, Garawa Resort, Vamoose Sailee, Vamoose Green Valley, Amboli Hill Resort

35. Daringbadi, Orissa

Located in Odisha state, Daringbadi is a hill station in the Kandhamal district. Also known as ‘Kashmir of Odisha’, Daringbadi has a cool and charming climate. Due to its picturesque landscapes, lush green surroundings, and cascading waterfalls, Daringbadi is considered one of the best good hill stations in India. Moreover, adventurers can engage in an array of activities, such as camping and trekking.

Best Experiences: Along with the gorgeous drive around the hill town of Daringbadi, you can enjoy the scenic views of the valleys and the coffee plantations. Do visit the Belghar Sanctuary. Best Time To Visit: September to May Ideal Duration: Visit here for 2 days for a good trip. How To Reach: Nearest airport is at Bhubaneswar which is at a distance of 250 Kms and the nearest railway station is at Berhampur. Places To Stay: Utopia Resort

Suggested Read: 16 Best Things To Do In Khandala

36. Coorg, Karnataka

Coorg is a district in the Karnataka state which is known for an array of tourist attractions and quaint villages. There are mountain ranges with a spectacular view and one of the best mountain places in India.

Best Experiences: For a nature lover, nothing is as blissful as the experience of exploring The Coorg District. The beautiful scenery, warm hospitality of people can allure you towards the hill station. The other attractions include Abbey falls, Nagarahole (Wild Life Sanctuary), Mountain Ranges, Churches, Forts. Best Time To Visit: December to February Ideal Duration: Coorg is an idyllic place for a quick weekend getaway. How To Reach: The nearest railway station is at Mysore which is about 100 kms away from Coorg. Buses are frequently available to take off to Coorg on a 4-5 hours comfortable journey. Things To Do: Enjoy Views Of The Magnificient Waterfall, Sightseeing Places To Stay: Sanctum Retreat, Club Mahindra Virajpet, The Tamara Coorg, Estate Stay, Amritara Ambatty Greens Resort

37. Kudremukh, Karnataka

Kudremukh is primarily an iron ore mining town known for its scenic beauty. Dense forest, rich wildlife, and the riverside view can account for an exhilarating experience in Kudremukh. It is also one of the most popular hill stations in India. 

Best Experiences: The hill station is a trekker’s paradise. Wildlife enthusiasts visit these particular hilly areas in India for exotic species and exquisite fauna. Best Time To Visit: March to May Ideal Duration: You could visit here for a day and extend it for as long as you want to. How To Reach: The nearest airport is Mangalore at a distance of 110 Kms. Buses and Taxis are available there.

Suggested Read: Top Hill Stations In Karnataka

38. Agumbe, Karnataka

Referred to as the Cherrapunji of the South, Agumbe is a village with the highest rainfalls, scenic outlook and sunset viewpoint. Agumbe is a small place with lots to discover especially in terms of feeling a natural beauty around.

Best Experiences: Do not miss the majestic Barkhana falls and strolls in the rainforests of India. Go trekking and explore the local markets for the incredible handicraft products. Best Time To Visit: November to January Ideal Duration: Visit here for a minimum of 3 days for a good trip. How To Reach: Nearest airport is at Mangalore. Closely railway station is at Udupi which is at a distance of 100 km.

39. Araku Valley, Andhra Pradesh

Araku Valley is a hill station in Visakhapatnam district in the state of Andhra Pradesh. It is a valley which is famous for coffee plantations.

Best Experiences: Explore the beautiful villages of Madugala and Champi as you trek through the carpeted terrains. Other tourist attractions include Chaparai falls and Ananthagiri falls. Best Time To Visit: October to March Ideal Duration: Visit here for a minimum of 3 days for a good trip. How To Reach: Daily railways are available from Visakhapatnam railway station. Buses and taxis are also available. Places To Stay: Ushodaya Resorts, HILL PARK RESORTS, Sri Sai Suvarna Inn , The Village Villa Resorts & Restaurants

Suggested Read: 30 Places To Visit In Andhra Pradesh

40. Ananthagiri Hills, Andhra Pradesh

The picturesque Ananthagiri Hills are located in Vikarabad. The dense forest of the hills can enchant you to unravel its mysteries.

Best Experiences: While in Ananthagiri, go trekking across the deciduous forests and explore the medieval forts. Best Time To Visit: October and March Ideal Duration: Visit here for a minimum of 2 days. How To Reach: Nearby airport/railway station is at Hyderabad at a distance of 80 Kms. Local buses, transportation is available to reach the Ranga Reddy district. Places To Stay: Rj Comfort Deluxe Lodge, R Banquets And A/C Rooms, Ansari Bagh, Sri Durga Residency, FARM HOUSE NEAR HYDERABAD

41. Horsley Hills, Andhra Pradesh

A summer hill resort in Andhra Pradesh, Horsley Hills is a popular tourist destination known for its scenic beauty and tranquility. The Hill resort is surrounded by lots of trees.

Best Experiences: While in Horsley hills visit the environment park and the Horsley hills museum. Indulge in some adventure sports like rappelling and trekking. Best Time To Visit: December, January, February and March Ideal Duration: Visit here for a minimum of 4 days for a good trip. How To Reach: Nearest airports are available at Tirupati and Bangalore. Nearest station is available at Madanapalle Road. Buses are also available from there. Things To Do: Go Camping, Trekking Places To Stay: Horsley Hills holiday Homes, Sri Vijaya Residency A/C, Tripura Sundari Residency, Gangotri Lodge

Suggested Read: 15 Hill Stations Near Hyderabad

42. Lambasingi, Andhra Pradesh

Referred to as the Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh, Lambasingi is a small village with exotic natural sceneries. This is the hill resort where you can experience snowfall during the winter season.

Best Experiences: This is the hill station to chill while the summer heat boils you down. It’s one of the destinations where you need to relax in the resorts and enjoy the beautiful weather. Don’t miss nature walks in the misty mornings of these hilly areas in India Best Time To Visit: November to January Ideal Duration: Visit here for 4 days for a relaxed vacation. How To Reach: It is very well connected by road. Nearby bus stops are at Visakhapatnam, Chintapalli.

43. Munnar, Kerala

Perched on the hilly destination of God’s own country – Kerala, Munnar is enveloped with greenery, and romantic locations that can steal your heart away. It is ideally best suited for honeymoon getaways.

Best Experiences: The serene hill station in south India is an ideal getaway for honeymooners and couples seeking a break from the bustling city. You could indulge in rock climbing, trekking, boating, yoga, and shopping. With so much to offer to tea lovers and thrill seekers, Munnar is definitely among the best hill stations in India to visit. Best Time To Visit: September to March Ideal Duration: Visit for 3 days for a good trip. How To Reach: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, which is about 110 km from Munnar. The nearest railway station is at Aluva, at a distance of 110 km. Local transportation services – bus and cab are available to reach Munnar. Things To Do: Tree House Stay, Tea Estate Tours Places To Stay: The lake view munnar resort, Le Celestium, Wyte Mist Mountain Club, Kaivalyam Wellness Retreat

Suggested Read: 28 Honeymoon Places In Kerala

44. Thekkady, Kerala

Thekkady is one of the best hill stations in India. It offers a mélange of experiences – tranquility, adventure & wildlife exploration. There’s something for everywhere here. What more? You can visit the nearby sanctuary and enjoy the wildlife here.

Best Experiences: Amongst the many things to do in Thekkady, do plan a visit to Tiger Reserve. The rocky terrains make for a perfect path for nature walks. You could also go for elephant safaris and entertain yourself with a Kathakali show. Best Time To Visit: October to February Ideal Duration: Visit Thekkady for 4 days for a good trip. How To Reach: Nearest airport is at Madurai at a distance of 139 Kms. From there, local transportation services are available to reach Thekkady. Things To Do: Boating Tours, Bamboo Rafting & Hiking Places To Stay: Panthalams Residency, Niraamaya Retreats Cardamom Club, Poetree Sarovar Portico, Kairali Palace Home Stay

45. Ooty, Tamil Nadu

Ooty is amongst the best hill stations in south India. It is popular for those who seek the beauty of nature, relax and take part in activities that could add new experiences to their travel diaries.

Best Experiences: Explore the cozy cottages and go for trekking along the plantation sites for breathtaking views. You could indulge in adventurous activities like angling and hand gliding too. Best Time To Visit: October to June Ideal Duration: Visit Ooty for 3 days for a good trip. How To Reach: The Coimbatore international airport is the closest. Nilgiri express leaves from Chennai to Mettupalayam near Ooty. Buses and shared taxis are available. Things To Do: Visit Botanical Gardens Places To Stay: Ooty White House, Greenwood Bungalow, Fortune Retreats , The Red House

Suggested Read: 50 Best Tourist Places In Tamil Nadu

46. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

Known as the princess of hill stations, Kodaikanal has the locations to mesmerize a tourist. It is one of the most popular hill stations in South India where you can enjoy the beauty of the panoramic views. No wonder it’s often called the most beautiful hill station in India.

Best Experiences: Go for a boat ride in the Kodaikanal lake and trek to the Pillar rocks for scenic views. Visit the parks and nature walk in the Pine Forests. You could visit the Wax museums too. Best Time To Visit: October and March Ideal Duration: Visit for 3 days for a good trip. How To Reach: Closest airports are at Trichy, Madurai, and Coimbatore. Nearest railway station is at Kodai road which is 100 kms away from Kodaikanal. One can travel by road to reach Kodaikanal. Things To Do: Night Safari, Boat Ride Places To Stay: SkyHighVilla, Kodai Resort Hotel, Sss Home Stay, FabHotel Tranquil Heights Kodaikanal, Cloudwalks Kodaikanal

47. Yercaud, Tamil Nadu

The picturesque hill station of Yercaud is famous for its scenery, fruit plantations, coffee and host of other things. It’s defnitely the msot charming place on the hill stations on the India map to help you plan your itinerary.

Best Experiences: Of the many tourist attractions in Yercaud, visit the Deer Park, the horticulture farm, and the Silk farm. Take a trip to the rose garden too. Best Time To Visit: October to June Ideal Duration: Visit here for a minimum of 2 days. How To Reach: The nearest airport is at Kamalapuram, Coimbatore & Bangalore. They are connected to Chennai. Local transportation is available to reach Yercaud. The nearest railway station is Salem Junction. Things To Do: Explore The Hill Station, Go Boating, Zipline Places To Stay: Chill Breeze Resort, GReaT trails Yercaud, Misty Meadows, TGI Star Holidays, Fairholme Bungalow

Suggested Read: 18 Best Road Trips From Chennai

48. Kotagiri, Tamil Nadu

Kotagiri in Tamil Nadu is known to have the world’s second-best climate. The hill station is a paradise in summers to beat the heat of the bustling city. Owing to its abundant natural beauty, it’s the most beautiful hill station in India.

Best Experiences: Kotagiri is famous for its Kodanad View Point, sprawling tea gardens, and sparkling waterfalls. Do visit Nehru Park. Best Time To Visit: December to May Ideal Duration: Visit here for a minimum of 2 days for a good trip. How To Reach: It is very close to Ooty about 29 Kms. Travelers can take local transportation from Ooty or Coimbatore. Places To Stay: Silver Spruce, Pear Tree Inn, Enchanting Woods, Green Nest resort, Teanest Nightingale

49. Kolli Hills, Tamil Nadu

The exotic natural charm of this mountain range can leave you spellbound. It is a quaint hill station in South India known for its picturesque views.

Best Experiences: The hill stations are ideal for a weekend getaway. You could visit the waterfalls nearby, especially during the monsoons. Visit the Sikku parai viewpoint for breathtaking views and the botanical gardens for exquisite flora. Best Time To Visit: February to December Ideal Duration: Visit for a minimum of 3 days for a good trip. How To Reach: It is very well connected by road. Nearby bus stops are at Visakhapatnam, Chintapalle. Places To Stay: Pepy Madhu Resort, RVR Hotels, RJ Grand Resort, Samy Hotel

Suggested Read: 15 Places To Visit Near Madurai

50. Meghamalai, Tamil Nadu

The cool mountain range located in the Western Ghats, Meghamalai is dotted with plantations and gardens. Often called the High Wavy Mountains, the natural beauty of the place is ideal for those looking for an adventurous destination. It’s definitely the best hill station in India for honeymoon.

Best Experiences: Apart from the picturesque views, trek to the tea estates and chill by the dams. You could also go explore the wildlife around. Best Time To Visit: October, November, December, and January Ideal Duration: Visit for a minimum of 3 days for a good holiday. How To Reach: The nearest airport is at Madurai airport at a distance of 115 Kms. It is well connected by roads. Places To Stay: Hotel Indhra, Aranya Nivas, Indraprastham Homestay, Tusker Towers, Green Ark Resorts

51. Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir

From nature, landscapes, culture, to the geographical terrain, Ladakh exudes beauty in its every aspect.It enchants anyone who sets foot in this mystical land up north. With sparkling blue lakes, cold deserts, to colorful monasteries and gompas, Ladakh has an array of elements that make it a complete Heaven on Earth and one of the best largest hill station in India . It’s probably the only place on Earth where you can suffer from sunstroke and frostbite at the same time. While Leh happens to be the capital city of Ladakh, other places that travelers can explore here include Kargil, Nubra, and Pangong Tso.

Best Experiences: Camel ride at Nubra Valley, visit Pangong Tso, ATV ride, river rafting at Zanskar, bike ride to Chele La Pass (highest motorable pass in the world) Best Time To Visit: April to June Ideal Duration: A duration of 5 nights and 6 days is good for your holiday. How To Reach: Leh Airport is the nearest airport. One can also drive via the Delhi-Manali-Leh route for an enchanting road trip to Ladakh, one of the highest altitude hill stations in India. Things To Do: Camel Safari, Trekking Places To Stay: HITCHHIKERS HOSTEL LADAKH , The Grand Dragon Ladakh, The Empyrean House, Hearth Hostel

Suggested Read: Go Karting In India

52. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand

If your definition of a perfect hilly escapade revolves around strolling through unadulterated natural surroundings, sitting somewhere and looking at a pretty sunset, visiting quaint churches, and buy woolens at a jolly Mall Road, then Mussoorie is the right place for you! Tucked away in the foothills of the Himalayas, Mussoorie is among the best hill stations in India to visit. Its year-round pleasant weather makes it a top choice for couples and honeymooners anyway. It will surprise you to know that it is sometimes called the Queen of Hill Stations in India!

Best Experiences: Visit to the churches, shopping at Mall Road, a plate or two of steaming momos at the local eateries, a dip at Kempty Falls Best Time To Visit: April-June Ideal Duration: A duration of 2 nights 3 days is perfect for your holiday. How To Reach: Dehradun Airport is the nearest airport. One can also drive from the nearest metros via Dehradun city. Things To Do: Trekking, Hiking, Paragliding Places To Stay: Hotel Nand Residency , The Dolina, Mussoorie Honeymoon Inn, Fortune Resort Grace

53. Lonavala, Maharashtra

A popular hill station situated near Mumbai and Pune, Lonavala is one of the most visited hill stations in India. Apart from gorgeous waterfalls, lush greenery, and serene lakes, Lonavala is known for the hard candy or chikki. The best time to visit this hill station is in the monsoon season and this is when you will find a lot of tourists here. If you want to relax and rejuvenate your soul on a weekend then Lonavala is perfect for you.

Best Experiences: Witness the picturesque view at Lonavala Lake, explore the Bhaja Caves, click pictures at Lohagad Fort Best Time To Visit: October and May Ideal Duration: 2 days How To Reach: Lohegaon Airport in Pune is the nearest airport to Lonavala. You can board a flight till Pune and then hire a cab and reach Lonavala. Things To Do: Experience The Splendid Beauty, Revisit History Places To Stay: Hilton Shillim Estate Retreat and Spa, Meritas Adore Resort, Hotel Ferreira Resort, Dukes Retreat

Suggested Read: 20 Places To Visit In Lonavala In Rainy Season

54. Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh

Image Source Dharmashala is one of the most famous hill stations in India and is located in Himachal Pradesh. From trails for trekking to amazing cafes, Dharamshala has it all and is a perfect weekend getaway spot. Whether you are a shopaholic or a foodie, this hill station has something for every traveler. Get ready to fall in love with the lush green hills and the peaceful surroundings in Dharamshala.

Best Experiences: Visit St John’s Church and Dal Lake, Mediate at Gyuto Monastery, Explore the ancient Kangra Fort Best Time To Visit: February to June Ideal Duration: 3 days How To Reach: Pathankot railway station is the nearest railway station and you can hire a cab from there till Dharamshala. Things To Do: Paragliding, Explore McLeodganj Places To Stay: Green Hotel, Bob’s n Barley, The Unmad, Hotel Pine spring

55. Chikmagalur, Karnataka

Image Source Located in Karnataka, Chikmagalur is the most frequented hill stations in India. If you are looking for an escape from your city life and are craving for a terrific vacation then you should leave everything right away. There are a plethora of activities that you can indulge in Chikmagalur, such as camping, trekking, river rafting, shopping, and most importantly relishing the delicious local food.

Best Experiences: Tea Plantation tour, relax at Hebbe Falls, Take a stroll and explore Coffee Plantations Best Time To Visit: September to May Ideal Duration: 3 days How To Reach: Board a flight till Chikmagalur Airport and then hire a cab. Things To Do: Discover An Exotic Wonder, Jet Skiing Places To Stay: Robusta Inn, The Vintage Chikmagalur, Premier Lodge Chikmagalur, Honeydewwz Exoticaa, Trivik Chikmagalur Resort

Suggested Read: 47 Best Places To Visit In Karnataka

56. Valparai, Tamil Nadu

Valparai is located at an elevation of 3,500 ft above sea level and in the laps of Annamalai Mountain Range. It is famous for its gushing waterfalls, green meadows, and scenic views of the valley. The visitors are treated to amazing views, hairpin bends on roads, and the excitement of being in the lap of nature. This place is also surrounded by some of the best resorts in Himachal . 

Best Experiences: Visit the Anamalai Tiger Reserve for an experience of majestic wildlife. Indulge in trekking at the Anamalai Hills. You can also get into bicycling along the tea and coffee estates of Best Time To Visit: December – January Ideal Duration: 2-3 days How To Reach: Take a flight to Coimbatore from your destination followed by a bus journey to Valparai. Things To Do: Trekking, Nature Walks, Bicycling Places To Stay: Tall Tree Nest, Hotel Sarvana Grand, Hillgrove Suites

57. Champawat, Uttarakhand

Champawat is the most beautiful hill station in India lying in Uttarakhand. The hill station is surrounded by majestic mountains and riveting river Kali. The hill station is quite secluded. Thus, it is untouched by commercialisation. The scenic views coupled with pleasant weather attracts many tourists.

Best Experiences: On your trip to Champawat, you can visit the famous Nagnath temple and the Gwal Devta Temple. While taking a stroll around town and enjoying the scenic views, you can also visit Ek Hathiya ka Naula and Kranteshwar Mahadev. Best Time To Visit: October to June Ideal Duration: 1-2 days How To Reach: Take a flight to Pantnagar and then hire a cab, private car, or take a bus ride till Champawat. Things To Do: Sightseeing, trekking Places To Stay: Cedar Valley, KMVN Tourist Rest House

Suggested Read: 41 Hill Stations In Uttarakhand

58. Kurseong, West Bengal

Kurseong, also known as the land of ‘White Orchids’, is located at a distance of 32 Kms from Darjeeling and is one of the top hill stations in India. This hill station connects the rest of West Bengal with Darjeeling. This town is known for many things such as its scenic views, panoramic landscapes, and pleasant weather, but the thing it is most famous for is the ‘toy train’ that operates from Kurseong to Darjeeling. Kurseong is the most beautiful hill station in India.

Best Experiences: Visit the tea garden estates, Ambrosia Shiv Mandir, Eagle’s Craig, Deer Park, and churches. All these destinations within Kurseong will heighten your experience. Best Time To Visit: April to May; August to October Ideal Duration: 1-2 days How To Reach: After reaching Bagdogra through flight, or Jalpaiguri through train take a taxi or bus to reach Kurseong Things To Do: Trekking, sightseeing Places To Stay: The River View Homestay, Bashera, Serene Homestay

59. Jogindernagar, Himachal Pradesh

One of the hill stations in India is Jogindernagar, a charming hill station that is also known as the ‘Powerhouse of India’. It is called so because it houses 3 hydro-electric power plants. Moreover, the picturesque views, panoramic landscapes, and hosts of other activities make this one of the best hill stations to visit.

Best Experiences: Witness amazing views at Jogindernagar Valley and experience the old-world charm of this place. Visit the Kamlah Garh Fort for a historic experience. Best Time To Visit: October to November Ideal Duration: 1-2 days How To Reach: The best way is to take a bus from Delhi to Jogindernagar. Alternatively, you can take a flight to Bhuntar and from there hire a cab to reach Jogindernagar. Things To Do: Trekking, sightseeing Places To Stay: Snowflakes resort, The Hosteller Bir, Bir High

Suggested Read: 11 Travel Tips For Himachal Pradesh

60. Dharamkot, Himachal Pradesh

Dharamkot, one of the top hill stations in India, is famous for its picturesque beauty, meditation centre, and secludedness. The hill station is located in the Kangra region in Himachal Pradesh and attracts a large number of tourists throughout the year. The serenity and peacefulness of this place will just keep you trapped here. This place is also surrounded by some of the best yoga retreats in Himachal. 

Best Experiences: Visit the Bhagsu Falls and the Dalai Lama Temple to experience the richness of this place. Best Time To Visit: September to June Ideal Duration: 1-2 days How To Reach: Reach Jalandhar Railway Station and from there you can board a bus to reach Dharamkot Things To Do: Trekking, Sightseeing Places To Stay: Dharamkot Inn, Gagan Resorts, Sky Pie Guest House

Further Read: 32 Hidden Places In Goa

Get inspired by the apple orchards, tea plantations, and snow-capped peaks to spend a rejuvenating holiday with your loved ones. Indulge in a plethora of revitalizing experiences along with enjoying the beautiful weather of these hill towns located in different corners of the country. So, plan your trip to India to have the best time of your life

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Frequently Asked Questions About The Best Hill Stations In India

Which hill stations in India have airports?

Dharamshala, Mussoorie, Gulmarg, Shillong, Shimla, and Manali are some of the hill stations in India which have airports.

What is the best time to visit these hill stations in India?

One can visit the hilly areas in India usually in the summers. One can also visit the top hill stations in North India if they wish to experience snow. One should avoid visiting in the monsoons.

Which is the best hill station in South India?

With so many beautiful hill stations dotting the landscape of Southern India, it is difficult to single out a single one that you can visit for a blissful holiday. Some of the best hill stations located in South India include the likes of Munnar, Coorg, Ooty, Kodaikanal, and Wayanad.

How many hill stations are there in India?

There are over 200 hill stations in India, including the smallest of mountainous regions and towns to the popular hill destinations.

Which range is famous for hill stations?

There are a total of three ranges out of which Himachal of Himalayas is one of the most famous hill stations. Himachal happens to be the Vedic name given to the middle Himalayas. One can find Dalhousie, Shimla, Nainital, Mussoorie, Manali, Darjeeling etc. in this range of mountains.

Which is the best hill station in India to live in?

Traveling to the mountains and starting a life there has been a dream of many. There are numerous hill stations in India that offer opportunities to travelers to live there permanently. Some of the best hill stations to live in India are Srinagar, Kullu and Manali, Kausani, Kodaikanal, Rishikesh, Shillong, Lonavala, and Yelagiri.

Which is the Queen of Hills in India?

Mussoorie is known as the queen of the hills. Attracting flocks of tourists throughout the year, Mussoorie is one of the most charming hill stations that is sitting at 6500 ft above sea level in the Garhwal hills. This destination is one of the favorite hill stations to visit in India among travelers.

Which is the coldest hill station in India?

When we talk about the coldest hill station in India, it is the northernmost state of Jammu and Kashmir. Located at an altitude of 10,990 ft or 3230 m, the coldest inhabited location is the hill station Dras that offers a gateway to Ladakh. The lowest temperature recorded in the winter season in Dras has been -45 degrees Celsius.

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Tanishk Juneja

Experience the world through captivating stories of adventure and travel. As a senior content writer, I bring my passion for exploration to life, crafting tales that take you on a journey. With my words, you’ll feel the thrill of discovery and the joy of experiencing new cultures. Let me turn your imagination into a reality with stories that inspire you to explore and embrace the world.

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11 Top Hill Stations in India to Escape the Summer Heat

Most of the hill stations in India were developed by the British, around a central mall, to get respite from the oppressive summer heat. Many have picturesque lakes as their focal point, making them excellent places for boating activities. One thing is for sure, you won't be short of things to do at any of the hill stations in India. You'll find them all over the country. And, to add to the adventure, it's possible to take a toy train ride up to some of them. This article lists the most popular ones. Unfortunately, many of the hill stations have become overcrowded, especially during summer. Hence, some quieter nearby alternatives have also been mentioned.

Srinagar, Kashmir

Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, delights visitors with its lovely lakes and relaxing houseboats . In fact, lakes and gardens are in such abundance there that Srinagar is often referred to as the "Land of Lakes and Gardens". The gardens have a distinctly Mughal influence, as many of them were cultivated by Mughal emperors. You'll find Asia's largest tulip garden in Srinagar, with a tulip festival held every April. Srinagar is a great place to visit if you're a golf enthusiast, as there are a number of courses there. Don't miss the many  must-see Srinagar attractions .

Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Manali , with its soothing backdrop of the Himalayas, offers a blend of tranquility and adventure that makes it one of northern India's most popular destinations. Although it's a popular place to go off on treks, you can do as little or as much as you want there. Located in the Kullu Valley of Himachal Pradesh , it's bordered by cool pine forest and the raging Beas River, which give it a special energy.

Nainital, Uttarakhand

The hill station of Nainital, in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand , was a popular summer retreat for the British during the time they ruled India. It features the serene, emerald-colored Naini Lake and an action-filled strip called The Mall, lined with restaurants, shops, hotels, and markets. Enjoy one of the many forest walks, explore the surrounding area on horseback, or relax on a boat in the lake.

​ Around Nainital: For peace and quiet head to Jeolikote (19 kilometers south) or Pangot (15 kilometers north).

Mussoorie, Uttarakhand

Mussoorie, located around an hour from Derahdun in Uttarakhand, is a popular weekend destination for north Indians, as well as honeymooners. One of the reasons for Mussoorie's popularity is that it has a lot of facilities developed especially for tourists. Take a cable car to Gun Hill, enjoy a beautiful nature walk along Camel's Back Road, have a picnic at Kempty Falls, or ride a horse up to Lal Tibba (the highest peak in Mussoorie). Mussoorie also offers a superb view of the Himalayas.

Around Mussoorie: Landour is smaller and sleepier (8km east).

Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

Shimla used to be the summer capital of the British Raj when they ruled India. Now it's the state capital of Himachal Pradesh . This town sprawls along a mountain ridge and is famous for its historical buildings and railway. The old Christ Church, with its beautiful stained glass windows, is one of Shimla's most prominent landmarks. Another is the Viceregal Lodge on Observatory Hill. These can be seen on a walking tour of Shimla. There are plenty of adventure sports and short hikes on offer in the vicinity as well. To get there, travel on the toy train to Shimla . Stay at Sunnymead Estate for an unforgettable gastronomic experience.

Around Shimla: If you want to get away from the crowd in Shimla try Shoghi (15 kilometers south) or Mashobra (10 kilometers north). Or, perhaps a royal homestay at Dhami (27 km north). A couple of hours away, visit apple country at Kotgarh (75 km). Seetalvan Orchard is a homestay that offers stunning views (and fresh apples in season) in Kotgarh.

Munnar, Kerala

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If you like tea, a visit to Munnar, in Kerala , is a must! The surrounding region is renowned for its extensive tea plantations . The Kundala Tea Plantations, which border a picturesque lake, offers the best opportunity to see the tea being picked and processed and to try fresh tea straight from the gardens. The area is blessed with the natural beauty of winding lanes, misty hills, and forests full of exotic plants and wildlife. Adventure enthusiasts can trek to Anamudi, the highest peak in south India, explore Eravikulam National Park, or go rock climbing. Stay at one of  Munnar's hotels and homestays surrounded by nature.

Ooty, Tamil Nadu

Established in the early 19th century by the British as the summer headquarters of the Chennai government, Ooty is now a very popular place to escape the summer heat in Tamil Nadu . If you travel there during the peak season from March to May, do be prepared for it to be crowded! Ooty's top attractions include the 55-hectare Government Botanical Gardens (a  flower show is held there every May as part of the Summer Festival), boating on Ooty Lake, and climbing Doddabetta Peak for an excellent view of the Nilgiri hills. To get to Ooty, take the scenic toy train from Mettupalayam .

Around Ooty: Coonoor (on a ridge 20 kilometers southeast) is famous for its tea plantations, while Bellikkal (13 kilometers north) and Red Hills (25 kilometers southwest) have lakes and forests.

Darjeeling, West Bengal

Darjeeling is also famous for its lush tea gardens. In addition, it's blessed with a stunning view of Mount Kanchenjunga, the world's third highest peak. Some of Darjeeling's most popular attractions include historic toy train , monasteries, botanical gardens, a zoo, and the Darjeeling-Rangeet Valley Passenger Ropeway (the longest aerial tramway in Asia). Darjeeling is a great place to walk around and explore the tea estates, villages, and markets. Don't visit during the monsoon season though—the region is one of the wettest places in India! 

Around Darjeeling: Nearby Kalimpong (50km) attracts fewer tourists and is appealing for adventure travel. Stay at Mansarover Homestay .

Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

Secluded Kodaikanal is nestled 120 kilometers from Madurai in the Palani Hills of Tamil Nadu . Its name means "Gift of the Forest", and you'll find many varieties of flora and fauna there. Orchards of pear trees and charming buildings with gabled roofs will greet you as you enter the town. There's an annual horticultural show at the landscaped botanical Bryant Park in May, waterfalls where you can enjoy a picnic beside, boating on the lake, and plenty of walking trails. Herbs and aromatherapy oils are some of the more interesting things to buy in Kodaikanal, with the eucalyptus oils being particularly popular.

Around Kodaikanal: If you're disappointed by the unsightly development going on at Kodaikanal town, get some respite at Elephant Valley (20 kilometers away).

Matheran, Maharashtra

The closest hill station to Mumbai in Maharashtra , Matheran offers plenty of walking trails and lookouts. The most unique thing about it and what makes it so special is that all motor vehicles are banned there—even bicycles. It's a soothing place to relax away from any noise and pollution.

Gangtok, Sikkim

Sikkim's capital, Gangtok, sits along a cloudy mountain ridge about 5,500 feet above sea level. Sikkim only became part of India in 1975. Before that, it was a small independent Buddhist kingdom with its own monarchy after the end of British rule. Gangtok is a popular base for travel throughout the state, particularly with trekkers. It's a well-organized and clean city with strict littering, traffic and tobacco laws. Attractions include monasteries, viewpoints, a cable car, and a zoo that houses rare animals rescued from traders and poachers.

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14 best mountain experiences in India for the summer

Summer is beginning to kick in. The sun is shining brighter, the breeze is getting warmer and the mountains are calling a little louder. And while the rolling hills and their clean air remain alluring year round, each season adds its own colour to the experience of mountain living. This summer, experience the best of the ghats and mountains in India by trying these 14 best mountain experiences:

Enjoy a sky full of stars

In 2022, 1,073km of area around the Indian Astronomical Observatory was formally notified as the  Hanle Dark Sky Reserve . In this area–made up of six hamlets in the village of Hanle, Ladakh–light is managed to keep light pollution at bay so that the night sky is visible in its purest possible form. The atmosphere is already cold and dry, lending the perfect setting for unobstructed stargazing. The area is now peppered with local villagers armed with telescopes, offering astro-tourists a stunning nocturnal experience at their homestays–that’s where you’d want to stay. Visit between March and October, when the skies remain clear and the temperatures are bearable. At a lower altitude, Starscapes has set up stargazing observatories in locations such as Kausani, Bhimtal and Ooty. You can sign up for their special astronomy events that are currently on in Mukteshwar in celebration of International Dark Sky Week (15-22 April).

Live the shepherd’s life in Tons Valley

Tons Trails is a social enterprise promoting sustainable immersive tourism in Uttarakhand’s Tons Valley. They take two trails every summer on which you can witness the simplistic beauty of nomadic life. You can take the Nomad Trail (batches from April to November every year), on which days are spent foraging for food or making cheese from goat milk. One the High Altitude Nomad Retreat (batches from July to August every year), travellers follow shepherds as they graze their sheep in the high grasslands of the region, visit quiet mountain villages and spend days in mountain homes listening to mountain lore. Sounds idyllic, right?

Trek the many flower valleys

As the winter begins to wane, carpets of fresh blooms cover up the Himalayas. Begin with the rhododendron trail at Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary, Sikkim , and spend the next few months walking through the many flower valleys of India. Watch the flower carpets of Kaas Plateau in Maharashtra change colours every 15 days from June to October; trek through Uttarakhand’s Valley of Flowers for its poppies, daisies, primulas, calendulas and other alpine flora (from July to September); and visit Nagaland’s Dzüko Valley (June to September) for the unique Dzüko Valley lily, which grows only in this pocket behind the Japfu mountain range.

Go tea picking in lush green estates

India sure loves its tea, and does a damn good job of producing it in its own lap. From Kangra to Munnar, hill stations across the length and breadth of the country boast undulating hills covered in bright green tea leaves. And a few tea estates and heritage bungalows at these destinations let travellers live like tea planters themselves. In Darjeeling, you can pick tea under the full moon at  Makaibari Estate , or have a field day of learning how the leaf reaches from the field to the cup at  Glenburn Tea Estate . Down south, you can enjoy sweeping views of Coonoor’s tea plantations from your vantage point at Teanest , a 19th-century bungalow that was once an international tea school. Think crackling fires, horse rides through lush green estates, and of course, a hot cup of tea to keep you constant company.

Heal in quietude of the Himalayas

Across the Himalayas, several yoga retreats and wellness centres offer a range of healing therapies in the lap of nature. Rishikesh is the birthplace of yoga, and here,  Ananda in the Himalayas ( book here ) offers yoga, Ayurveda and vedanta programmes. You can enrol for a course, or undergo personalised treatment at the sprawling retreat against views of the Ganges valley. Dehradun’s  Six Senses Vana ( book here ) also offers natural healing therapies. Professionals help plan your day with activities in line with your wellness goals. With the weather always beautiful in the Himalayan foothills, it’s never a bad time to book yourself a retreat.

Chase the glow of the Western Ghats

When monsoon showers begin to drench the Western Ghats, forestial secrets begin to reveal themselves. Wander deep into the evergreen forests at this time, and you will spot rotting bark and twigs emitting a blue or green glow. These are bioluminescent fungi and mushrooms, which generally grow in tropical climates and only along the Western Ghats in India. Trek along Goa’s  Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary and Chorla Ghats, or go exploring the forests of  Shri Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga Wildlife Reserve in Maharashtra. An overnight hiking trip will be worth it here, with the neon colours showing you the way and the sunrise over the Sahyadri marking the end of the night.

Ride the toy train

The Himalayan Queen trundles along the steepest rise in altitude in the world from 656m to 2,075m–a feat the toy train holds a world record for. Why not hop on the joy ride as it takes you through 800 bridges from Kalka to Shimla? As the train chugs along at 22kmph, you can soak in the sylvan beauty of the Himalayas with pines and deodars within an arm’s length. And at an altitude of 2000m, the Darjeeling toy train runs from Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling in West Bengal. With cool wind in your hair, tea plantations all around and the breathtaking Mt Kanchenjunga greeting you from a distance, this experience is the stuff of dreams.

Raft through the currents

If you’re the adventurous kind, rafting is a great way to hype things up. There are many places to witness the fury of a river–Rishikesh and Devprayag are some of the most popular ones, and there’s also Beas river in Kullu-Manali, Teesta river in Sikkim, Zanskar and more. Here, you can zing across the foamy rapids with mountains towering all around you. You’ll find the banks teeming with operators, but a few good ones to check out are  Red Chilli Adventure and  Paddle India . Seasons for rafting vary across locations, with destinations like Goa also attracting tourists during monsoons.

Paraglide over mountain valleys

There’s no feeling like flying free over a mountain valley. Bir and Billing in Himachal Pradesh have become something of a paragliding capital in India, with the takeoff site at Billing offering 360-degree views of the Dhauladhar range . You can take a flight any time around the year–except during monsoon season, when paragliding remains shut. A flight usually lasts around 10 minutes (under highly favourable conditions). Several other hill stations in India offer paragliding as well. You can head to southern destinations like Vagamon and Munnar, where the ride to the takeoff point takes you through hills covered in wild greenery; or to destinations such as Gangtok, Rohtang La and Lahaul and Spiti to soar above snow-clad peaks.

Try the world’s highest bungee jumping

Ladakh Bungee Jumping

In 2022, Ladakh got its first bungee jumping experience in Tsogtsi village. Touted as the world’s highest natural bungee jump, it offers a diveoff a cliff right above the Zanskar river. The jumping site itself offers an intriguing view of the region. The activity is open to people above 18 years of age, as long as they meet a certain weight requirement. Jumpers are allowed to drop till upto 190ft above the ground, in a jump that lasts from three to four minutes.

Live, learn and share in Ladakh

If you’re looking for a longer retreat this summer, spend your time mingling with locals while making an impact as a voluntourist.  17,000ft offers 10-day, 16-day and one-month programmes in Ladakh that let you put up in off-the-track villages and work in local schools and institutions. Based on your skillset, you can devote your time to teaching young students, exposing them to art or even building places where schools can run. Meanwhile, you go through orientation sessions, travel to remote locations and put up in local homestays . The experience is two-way, with you leaving a part of you in the mountains and taking back lessons on the Ladakhi way of living.

Get the 360-degree Himalayan experience

When a sultry summer takes over the plains, most of us begin to crave the cool beauty of the mountains. Luckily, there are boutique retreats that allow you to completely immerse in that stunning undulating landscape.  Shakti Kumaon ( Doubles from Rs3,05,500 including all meals, a guide and car transfers from the nearest airport/railway station)  organises Kumaon tours during which you can live the mountain life by putting up in village houses renovated and run by Shakti. The itinerary ends with a stay at Shakti 360 Leti–a Himalayan lodge in Bageshwar otherwise accessible only by a private charter or an overnight train journey. Floor-to-ceiling windows replace walls here, and open to views of the Ramganga valley. Lunch is served under a shamiana, and dinner by a candle light under the open skies. At  The Goat Village ( doubles from Rs5,000*; book here ) near Nag Tibba, modest mud cottages feature similar huge windows. The views are phenomenal; the meals, wholesome and local. And  GlampEco Stays in Manali ( doubles from Rs12,000*; book here ) offer unique stays in geodesic domes. At a height of 2600m, the domes stand at the edge of a cliff with panoramic windows looking out to the Dhauladhar range.

Spot elusive wildlife

The Himalayas are home to some great wild species you can’t spot anywhere else in India. Every summer, black necked cranes fly into Ladakh from neighbouring countries. The big birds–some three feet in size–are a sight to behold. They’re in for the breeding season from March to May, and put up stunning courting displays during this time. The birds can be spotted near lakes and marshes in Tso Kar, Hanle and Pangong. Six months later, they fly to Bhutan and Arunachal Pradesh for the winter. Deep within the forests of Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh and West Bengal, red pandas roam the eastern Himalayas. Spotting them becomes easier during the summers, which is when the feral animals come out for their breeding season and vegetative growth too remains low.

Try the Himachali dham

Himachal Pradesh is home to the dham–a saatvik vegetarian thali with fabled origins and a culturally heavy significance (more on that  here ). Back in its day, the dham was a royal experience through and through, and while the tedious tradition is served in simpler iterations around India now, you can savour the authentic dham experience at  Rakkh Resort  ( book here ) in Palampur. Upon request, Boti chefs are contracted for the intensive 12-hour preparation of Kangri Dham here. No vegetables are used in the preparation, and copper pots are placed in fire pits in the ground to slow-cook lentils and pulses. When ready, the feast is served in a pattal or pattlu leaves plate to people sitting in rows on the ground. It’s an occasion in itself, to be experienced at least once in your life.

*Prices are subject to change.

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Best Mountains In India

India is well known for its mountains – who hasn’t heard of the Himilayas after all? Although the north of India might be home to the countries tallest mountains (and even the world’s), there are in fact some spectacular mountains (and hills) scattered around the entire country. 

Overall, India’s mountains really do have something to offer everyone: from death-defying summits of some of the world’s tallest peaks to treks around mountain glaciers to strolls around luscious mountainsides – you can take your pick! Here’s a quick summary of our top ten mountains in India – enjoy.

Kangchenjunga

Height : 8,586 meters / 28,169 ft Location : Sikkim

We’re starting off our list with the highest mountain in India (and the third-highest in the world), Kangchenjunga. This mighty mountain sits on the border of India and Nepal and is an impressive 8,586 meters tall.

The name itself translates to ‘Five Treasures of the Great Snow’ in reference to its five summits, four of which are above 8,000 meters. However, it also goes by the nickname the ‘Queen of the mountains. Reaching any of its peaks is a treacherous affair, with serious avalanches and bad weather hitting this area hard.

Height: 7,816 meters / 25,643 ft Location: Uttarakhand

The next highest mountain found in India is the Nanda Devi, which, way back in the 1800s, was thought to be the highest mountain in the world, and possibly one of the most stunning places. . It sits within the Nanda Devi National Park and has been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988.

It features two peaks, the taller of which is now known to be the 23 rd highest in the world. This taller eastern peak is named after Goddess Nanda (and translates to ‘Bliss-Giving-Godess’) and is thought to be the home of Lord Shiva, hence the mountain is of high religious significance.

Image courtesy of Wikimedia

Height: 7,756 meters / 25,446 ft

Location: Uttrakhand

Kamet is the third-highest mountain in India, and it features a table-top summit with two peaks protruding. It’s located in the state of Uttarakhand and is the second-highest summit in the whole of the Garhwal Himalayas.

It was first climbed back in 1931, and the surrounding area is particularly scenic thanks to the range of glaciers and lakes that can be found there.

Height : 2695 meters

Location : Kerela

We’re taking a break from the tallest mountains in India now to bring you Anamudi, located in the state of Kerala. Although Kerala is known mainly for its beaches and backwaters, with a height of 2,479 meters, Anamdui is by no means small, and it’s actually the tallest mountain in peninsular India.

The luscious forests and flowing rivers found throughout the area make it an extremely popular mountain for trekkers keen to mix up their mountain views, and you’ll find countless species of birds in the area. The name Anamdui translates to ‘elephant’s head’ and, once you’ve seen the shape of the mountain, you’ll understand why.

Related: The best mountain quotes for Instagram

Saser Kangri I

Height:  7,672 meters/ 25,171 ft Location : Ladakh

At 7,672 meters, the Saser Kangri I is the tallest of six mountains referred to collectively as the Saser Kangri massif. It’s also the 35th tallest mountain in the world and is located in Ladakh, a union territory in the Republic of India.

Despite its height, it was first climbed in the 1970s, long before the second-tallest peak in the massif was climbed (Saser Kangri II East in 2011).

Height: 2,157 meters / 7,077 ft

Location : Lushai Hills, Mizoram

Located in the State of Mizoram, at 2,157 meters tall, the Phawngpui is the highest peak in the Lushai Hills. Phawngpui is also commonly known as the ‘Blue Mountain’ and is the focus of many local folklore stories.

Perhaps this is unsurprising considering the somewhat magical views from the mountainside – looking down on the misty mountains overlooking the Chhimtuipui River is something you’re unlikely to forget in a hurry. It sits within the boundaries of the Phawngpui National Park, and visits are only permitted throughout half of the year (November-April).

Height : 6,888 metres / 22,598 ft

Location : Sikkim

Arguably the most beautiful of the mountains on our list is Siniolchu. This majestic snowy mountain reaches a peak of 6,888 meters, making it one of the tallest mountains in the state of Sikkim.

Height: 2,100 meters / 6,890 ft

Location : Wayanad Hills, Kerela

Here we have another mountain located in the sleepy state of Kerala. At 2,100 meters tall, this mountain is the tallest in the Wayanad Hills. With tea plantations surrounding the base, lakes winding their way around the mountainside, and luscious grassland in abundance, it’s not surprising that this is a popular mountain for holiday goers keen to get their hike on.

Height : 7,385 meters / 24,229 ft

Location : Karakoram

Rimo I is the 71st highest mountain in the world and can be found in the eastern Karakoram. As the Karakoram mountain range crosses the borders of China, India, and Pakistan, this mountain is less visited than you might expect due to political clashes between these countries, giving it a somewhat mysterious vibe.

Image courtesy of John Town on Flickr

Height: 7,462 metres

Location : Janak

And last, but by no means least, on our list of the best mountains in India is Jongsong. Located just 20 km away from Kangchenjunga (India’s tallest mountain), this mountain is often overlooked. However, it remains the 57th tallest peak in the world and is uniquely placed on the tripoint of Nepal, India, and China. 

So, there you have it, our list of the finest peaks that India has to offer. Remember, many of India’s best mountains lie within the borders of national parks or protected areas, so, if you’re planning a trek in India, make sure you check in advance whether you’ll need a permit. You’ll also need to check in with local weather reports and make sure you pick your timings carefully to avoid any heavy weather high up!

About the Author Roger Timbrook

Roger is a little obsessed with travel. He has been to over 40 countries, broken 3 suitcases and owned over 10 backpacks in 12 months. What he doesn't know about travel, ain't worth knowing!

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10 Best Mountain Resorts in India To Check out [2024 Guide]

With the pandemic easing down a bit, this is the best time to explore your own country. As an Indian with an affinity for mountains, I decided to re-start my travels safely with short road trips to the hills. To help you prepare for your next trip, I reached out to ten travel experts and we collated this list of best mountain resorts in India to recharge.

Quick Booking Guide

Are you looking for the best mountain resorts in India but don’t have time to plan properly. Well, don’t worry we have you covered. Here are the top 3 mountain resorts of India to indulge and enjoy a lavish and relaxed stay at.

Vatsyayana Resort – India’s first Kamasutra-themed resort (Yes! that’s right) Read my full review here . Mary Budden Estate – This place needs NO introduction Windamere Hotel 

So, for all the mountain lovers raring to see more of our beautiful country, here’s a handpicked selection for you.

Need help with the online visa process? Visit Natvisa for the India eVisa photo requirements.

10 Unmissable Mountain Resorts of India

Picking the best mountain resorts of India is a herculean task with its 7 stunning mountain rangers spread across the length and breadth of the country. However, we are certain these 10 best hill station resorts in India will spark your wanderlust and give you that much-needed respite from the madness of urban jungles.

Misty Mountains Resort, Munnar

Contributed by – Anna Sherchand – a solo female travel blog

One of the most beautiful mountain resorts in Munnar is the Misty Mountains Resort . It is surrounded by the greenery of tea plantations, mountains, and valleys. Although not right at the center, Misy mountain resort is a relaxed hotel off the NH85 national highway and is about 4 km from the scenic Attukad Waterfall and 10 km from the Tea Museum. They also have pool and don’t miss the beautiful sunrise from there!

It is built strategically with a beautiful hill view. The rooms are very spacious and the staff friendly and attentive. A little secret for you the terrace has a secret garden which is really cool to find! The food they offer is delicious and the price is reasonable. I have a friend who recently went there and mentioned the hotel was following and taking all the Covid protocols very seriously and the hotel stay is safe to stay at this stage. You could even do the trekking experience at the resort premises and the location overall is great for sightseeing, recreation, dining, and getting around Munnar. Surely one of the best resorts in mountains providing much needed relief from stressful city living.

Click here to book Misty mountains resort now!

Manla Homes Resort, Shimla

Contributed by – Jyoti Baid, Story at Every Corner

Perched up in the mountains around Shimla, Manla Homes resort is boutique resort that provides all the comforts of a nice hotel in a more private setting.

We visited Manla Homes Resort for a family wedding. So, our wedding group took over the entire place for 4 days. The hospitality was amazing. The staff tended to all our needs and provided all the comforts. The kitchen made different cuisines at each meal. Every meal was very delicious, fresh and served with joy. Our family brought in some special Rajasthani dishes which are not well known in Shimla but they served it for us. The resort wedding was a great way to bring together the Rajasthan living and Shima’s beauty together.

Around the resort, there are ample hiking paths, perhaps those are paths used by locals to get around the valley as they go about their social life. The hikes were amazing and completely refreshing, with the crisp autumn air. The resort provides many spaces with vast views of the gorgeous valleys. Once to just stay there and soak in the beauty of Himachal.

Click here to book Manla home at best rates now!

Windamere Hotel – Darjeeling

Contributed by – Mariellen Ward, Breathe Dream Go

Darjeeling is often called the Queen of Hill Stations in India. A stately grande dame, she has presided over the hills and valleys of Darjeeling in West Bengal for centuries, as the tea industry flourished around her. From specific locations in the vicinity of the town — ideally Tiger Hill at sunrise — you can see the white wall of the Himalayan peaks, and especially the massive five-peaked Kanchenjunga, the world’s third highest mountain.

Sitting almost at the very top of Darjeeling, on Observatory Hill, is the charming Raj-era Windamere Hotel . The only thing above it is the Mahakula temple. From the Windamere, you can sip the “champagne of teas” in front of a roaring fire, and watch the mists swirl around and below you. It’s one of the most romantic things to do in all of India.

Established in the 19th century as a boarding house for bachelor English and Scottish tea planters, the Windamere was converted into a hotel just before the outbreak of the Second World War. The hotel works very hard to retain the old-fashioned charm and attentive service it has always been famous for, and features white-gloved waiters and daily high tea service. The Windamere Hotel will make you feel like a queen (or king) while you visit Darjeeling, Queen of Hill Stations . No doubt this is our pick for the one of the best luxury hill resorts in India.

Convinced? Book Windamere hotel now!

Club Mahindra, Binsar

Contributed by – Nisha & Vasu, Le Monde, The poetic travels

If you happen to go to Uttarakhand, do plan to visit Binsar. Located at 30 KMs from Almora and nestled in the hills of Uttarakhand, is the little town of Binsar which is not much explored compared to other hills stations of India.  Club Mahindra Binsar  Valley Resort is the best place to stay for that feel of home away from home.

The staff is very courteous and helpful. We stayed in a studio apartment which was equipped with a modern kitchen corner with a refrigerator, microwave, electric kettle and also had some useful crockery, cutlery to enjoy those mini meals in between the proper ones. The rooms are interconnected just in case you are visiting with a large number of family or friends.

A place for the whole family, the resort has a big complex and has everything to please each member. Massage rooms, recreation area, a whole range of Happy Hub activities, a dining hall which can serve local Kumauni cuisine and international favourites, Drinks corner and so on. Cookery classes, Ziplining, camping, bird watching, hiking to either uphill or to the riverfront with their experienced guides are some of the outdoor activities that the resort offers. There is a play area for children also.

The USP is lush green gardens and luxurious amenities.

Click to get exclusive deals on Club Mahindra Binsar valley. 

Vatsyayana Resort, Almora

Vatsyayana resort is undoubtedly one of the best mountain resorts in India, hand’s down. If you are looking for resorts with mountain views in India, this is a great choice. 

Luxury cottages with a stunning 360-degree view of the Himalayas in an offbeat locale is exactly what the doctor prescribed. I was smitten by their hospitality, the snow-capped mountain views, and high-quality standards. The setting is romantic and Vatsyayana is the perfect adobe for couples. The resort is based on the ideology of the famous Indian philosopher Vatsyayana (of Kamasutra fame), which surely sets them apart from the usual mountain resort crowd.

You can trek with huskies, trek, stargaze, take a dip in their heated pool, and romanticize in these spectacular settings making it my favorite luxury resort in the mountains. Read my full review with photos of the resort here .

So why wait? Book Vatsyayana resort now!

Cherry Resort, Sikkim

Contributed by – Allan Wilson, Live Less Ordinary

The Himalayan foothills are well-known for their tea plantations, with some famous tea producing regions including Assam and Darjeeling. But the most scenic has to be higher up, with heights over 7000 ft, with the  Temi Tea Gardens in Sikkim . Here you will find the Cherry Resort , a heritage hotel where each guest room offers unforgettable views over the surrounding hills of tea fields.

They are also active tea gardens when each morning following sunrise (7am-4pm) local pickers will be weaving between the lines of tea bushes while plucking the leaves to be processed. The Cherry Resort is also just a stone’s throw from the Temi Tea Factory where the tea is processed for export. Unfortunately, it is a busy factory, meaning no tours, although on the occasional day-off the resort can organise a quick look around. The resort is however fairly far-flung, with Bagdogra, the main airport for the area, being 4 hours away. Then it is a good 2-3 hours from the main city of Gangtok. But this also brings its advantages, as few will travel this far, and you may have the resort to yourself.

Click here to book the lovely Cherry resort!

Tirthan Anglers’ Retreat, Himachal Pradhesh

Contributed by – Sundeep & Bedabrata, Delhi Fun Dos

The splendour of the Himalayas has been drawing travellers since times immemorial. Comfortable resorts here are like a cherry on the icing. Take the case of Tirthan Anglers’ in Tirthan Valleynear Manali in Himachal Pradesh, India. Most buses to Manali from Delhi or Shimla drop you at Aut. From here, a taxi would take you to the resort.

Tirthan Valley is a beautiful landscape. Rivers Tirthan and Beas flow alongside this hill station. Tirthan Anglers’ makes the most of the rivers of the region. It has been built in such a manner that the Phalachan River flows through the property. That is its uniqueness. You sleep in comfy cottages with the sounds of the gushing river as the lullaby. In addition, you can spend the day on the riverside. There are tables and hammocks here. Depending on the laziness quotient, you can take a pick! Also, it is an angler’s retreat, so you can try your hand at fishing under guidance from in-house experts. As city folks – what more can one want!

Well, you want quality food. The stuff that they serve is simple, healthy and yet tasty. Meals are strictly in the dining hall fitted with a vintage room heater. The rustic tables and benches not only add aesthetic charm but also sets the mood for casual chit chat with fellow travellers. Special mention – the staff at Tirthan Anglers’. They define the expression “service with a smile.”

Click here to read reviews and book Tirthan Anglers’ Retreat.

Nubra Eco Lodge, Ladakh

Contributed by – Ellie, Soul Travel Blog

Set in the heart of Nubra Valley,  Nubra Eco Lodge  is the perfect retreat for those who want to be mindful of their footprint while exploring Ladakh, or just take in the incredible scenery in a serene setting.

Nubra valley is where the Ladakh and Karakoram mountain ranges meet, and wherever you are around the lodge, you’ll be greeted with views of the towering peaks. The valley itself though is at a slightly lower elevation than Leh (it’s at 2800m) making it another good option if you’re finding it harder to acclimatise to the altitude – a must before setting off on any trekking expeditions.

The eco lodge is made up of a main house which includes the restaurant and some accommodation, plus an outdoor restaurant with stunning views of the mountains. Most of the rooms are glamping-style bedded tents and villas which are luxuriously fitted and all with beautiful views. On site there is an organic garden where much of the produce served in the restaurant is grown, and the orchards are filled with delicious apricot trees. The resort is powered by solar, too.

If you’re visiting Ladakh, it’s definitely worth staying a few days here, you may find yourself not wanting to leave!

Click here to book Nubra ecolodge now!

Mary Budden Estate, Uttrakhand

Contributed by – Kanupriyaa, My Lost Camel

Mary Budden Estate located inside the gorgeous Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is the perfect place to relax and unwind in nature. It pops us in almost every top Indian hill resorts listicle. Nestled in the mountains of Almora, you can see the gorgeous peaks of the snowy Himalways in the distance on clear skies from the property. You start your day by having a home cooked meal served in the rustic dining room at the lodge. The afternoon is spent playing tennis or taking a hike in the lush forest just outside the gates of the property before taking high tea in the gardens.

At dinner time, you fill your belly with delicious food next to a burning fire and then sit outside drinking hot coffee next to the fire pit. Mary Budden Estate calms your soul with its rich food, warm people and location in the belly of nature. From the books about Rumi that welcome you in your room to the staff that cater to all your needs it is one of the best places to visit in North India.

Click here to reserve Mary Budden Estate for your next trip!

Le Méridien Mahabaleshwar Resort & Spa, Mahabaleshwar

Contributed by – Trisha, Try Wandering More

Le Méridien Mahabaleshwar Resort & Spa, Mahabaleshwar , is a 5-star resort set amidst 27 acres of evergreen forests in the scenic Western Ghats. If you are looking for best relaxing resorts in India, this should be your pick. 

With a temperature-controlled infinity pool and each room balcony overlooking the vast expanse of the dense forest-covered valley, this resort is perfect for those who enjoy a combination of luxury and nature.

There is plenty to do in the resort so you’ll never get bored here. You can take leisurely walks among the trees, explore the Instagram worthy spots,  pamper yourself at the spa and in your large in-room hot tub, sip a cuppa while admiring the view from your private balcony, swim or relax in the swimming pools, and have drinks at the classy Longitude Bar. If you like exploring, head out to the nearby famous attractions like Arthur’s Seat, Wilson Point, Mapro Gardens (for strawberries), Krishnabai Temple, Afzal Khan’s Tomb, waterfalls, and the market.

So, whether you’re visiting for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a luxury escape with friends, you will absolutely love this scenic resort.

Click here to book Le Méridien Mahabaleshwar Resort & Spa, Mahabaleshwar

FAQ’s

Which is the highest hill resort in india.

At 8825 ft, The Khyber Himalayan Resort and Spa In Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir is said to be the highest hill resort in India.

Which is the most unique mountain resort in India?

Vatsyayana resort with its Kamasutra theme definitely stands out.

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6 thoughts on “10 best mountain resorts in india to check out [2024 guide]”.

What an incredible collection of mountain resorts in India! I’m trying to pick my favorite but it’s so hard. Luckily you’ve covered several regions so I can visit all over time. Do you have a favorite?

Yes you must dear, bookmark this for constant inspiration 🙂 My fave is Vatsyayana resort – I loved it to bits.

Many thanks for your Excellent efforts in analysing and sharing the details which will certainly help in making our future touring worth it, Cheers.

Thanks, hope you enjoy these resorts on your next trip 🙂

What a brilliant collection of mountain resorts in India! Now I know where to stay in each of these areas. Thanks for collating this.

Thanks for joining the collab and sharing your inputs dear 🙂

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7 Overlooked Mountain Escapes In India That Promise To Give You More Chill Than Netflix

Don't you love everything about the mountains: the hiking, the camping, the fishing, the skiing, and not least of all the breathtaking surroundings?

Whether it’s for any exciting activity or just plain relaxing, there’s always a mountain escape waiting to cure those cooped-up city blues.

Arunachal Pradesh

1. koloriang.

This verdant mountain town has enough activities to prevent you from ever being bored, but is small enough to be charming and quiet.

Credits: Arunachal Tourism

Why Koloriang: Worth visiting for enjoying high mountains and the colourful tradition and culture of the Nyishi community of Kurung Kumey district.

Koloriang is known for its natural beauty, and if you're a nature lover, this town is your ideal location. If you're coming from ziro, then there are numerous picnic spots on the way. Tourists visiting the town can also explore nearby villages such as Sangra, Palin, Deed and Talo.

Pelling's effortless beauty is characterised by its serene mountainous terrain and cheerful and hospitable locals.

Credits: Atanu De

Why Pelling: The pleasant town of Pelling is famous for magnificent views of the snow-capped Kanchenjunga range.

Also, sightseeing in Pelling is not only restricted to mountains, but extends up to lakes, waterfalls and monasteries, out of which the Kanchenjungha Falls and Pemyangshi Pemayangtse Monastery are most significant.

Uttarakhand

3. champawat.

Visiting Uttarakhand? Look no further than Champawat. This serene hill station is one of the least crowded destinations in Uttarakhand.

Credits: uttarakhandtourism

Why Champawat: For it's rich variety of fauna and flora. Almost 65 per cent of the district is covered with forests. Teak, Babool, Eucalyptus, Sagon Bail and Jamun are some of the important trees found here. Also, don't forget to visit the Baleshwar temple and Nagnath temple which displays fine architectural excellence.

At an elevation of 2,695 metres, Anamudi is the highest peak of the Western Ghats and South India. The name Anamudi literally translates to 'elephant's forehead', a reference to its resemblance to the mountain. Anamudi Peak is the highest outside the Himalayan mountain ranges.

Credits: syam

Why Anamudi: The Anamudi peak is famous for trekking expeditions in Munnar.

5. Saputara

The name Saputara literally means the ‘abode of serpents’ and one can find an image of a snake situated on the shore of the river Sarpganga that flows through the town. Saputara has mythological importance as it is believed that Lord Rama spent 11 years of his exile here.

Credits: gujarattourism

Coonoor is essentially a small tea garden town where the weather remains pleasantly cool throughout the year.

Credits: Rainer Voegeli

Why Coonoor: Coonoor has some of the most fantastic heritage hotels and guesthouses.

7. Chikmagalur

Located at the foothills of the Mullayangiri Range, Chikmagalur is often referred as the ‘Coffee Land’ of Karnataka.

Credits: Vikram Vetrivel

Why Chikmagalur: Away from the banes of city life, this region is dotted with several hills, mountains and offers a salubrious experience of hill stations.

More often than not, the lesser a destination is spoken about, the more fascinating it turns out to be. So, Plan your next vacation to one of these lesser known destinations. Share this article with your friends and set out on a journey to witness the unseen India. To discover more of such destinations, read 10 Hidden Gems In India To Explore Before They Become Mainstream .

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International Mountain Day: Places to visit in India for a mountain vacation

From the massive himalayas in the north to the western ghats and the nilgiris in the south. let's take a look at some of these breathtakingly beautiful mountain destinations in india..

Whether you like mountains or not, they have a built-in superpower to charm everyone. They offer us more than just captivating experiences with their majestic appearances, regal ruins, unsolved mysteries, and winding roads. There is nothing that compares to the sort of stunning vistas and serene environment you get when you are at the top of a mountain. India is home to some of the most magnificent mountain ranges in the world that are picture-perfect and provide you with Instagram-worthy photos thanks to mother nature. There are several locations to sate your carvings for a vacation in the mountains, from the massive Himalayas in the north to the western ghats and the Nilgiris in the south. Let's take a look at some of these breathtakingly beautiful mountain destinations. (Also read: 7 most beautiful and famous gardens in India for nature lovers )

• Munnar, Kerala

Munnar, situated in God's own country, is truly a paradise on earth. It is one of the best mountain areas in India and is renowned for its huge slopes of tea plants and pleasant climate. Tourists of all age groups flock here to take advantage of the abundant wilderness and partake in a variety of adventure activities. There are many reasons to visit Munnar and unwind in the midst of nature, including adventure activities, waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuaries. It is a wonderful location to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and revitalise your senses.

2. Coonoor, Tamil Nadu

One of India's most stunning mountain locations is Coonoor. The area's pristine natural beauty will capture your heart right away with its abundance of beautiful green forests and broad slopes of tea plantations. The location is ideal for a relaxing trip or trek. Even better, you may go camping in the hills while taking in the breathtaking scenery.

3. Chail, Himachal Pradesh

Chail is the place to go if you want to take in the most stunning mountain vistas in Himachal Pradesh without any crowds or tourist commotion. Breathtaking views of adjacent valleys, high-altitude walking paths and vast architectural wealth make Chail the perfect holiday destination. Take a quick break from your hectic schedule and unwind in Chail's tranquilly.

4. Auli, Uttarakhand

Auli will unavoidably come up when talking about mountainous areas in India. Auli is a well-known ski resort in India and is situated in the Chamoli district. Auli, which is surrounded by the Nand Devi and Nar Parvat mountains, is a great place to take a cable car journey across the snow-capped mountains and enjoy the stunning scenery. Auli is undoubtedly the ideal backdrop for your vacation-related social media postings.

5. Gangtok, Sikkim

Gangtok in Sikkim is one of the top mountain destinations to visit in India. It is a well-known hill town and a paradise for anyone who enjoys the outdoors and adventure. Trekking, paragliding, hiking, and mountain biking are just a few of the activities available here to keep you occupied all day. Every mountain ridge offers a breathtaking and picturesque vista. The region's cell networks could be a touch shaky. Think of it as a disguised blessing and engage in some much-needed digital detox.

6. Coorg, Karnataka

Known as the 'Scotland of the East,' Coorg is situated in the western ghats and is one of the top mountain tourist sites in India. It is the ideal place for a fun getaway and a tranquil vacation in the middle of nature. You can venture out to explore the coffee farms and lose yourself in the amazing aroma before being startled by the delightful bird sounds coming from the nearby woodland. Whether you visit Coorg for two days or a week, you will undoubtedly enjoy every minute of it.

7. Leh Ladakh

For fans of the mountains, Leh is the ideal destination. Many travel lovers include Leh on their bucket lists. You will be in awe of it due to its renowned monasteries and magnificent surroundings. The Tibetan-style palaces and forts, fascinating scenery, tranquil environs, and, of course, the weather are what draw travellers to Leh Ladakh the most. Not only is the city incredible, but the locals are also quite friendly and willing to assist you whenever you need it. In other words, the ideal choice for mountain lovers.

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Top Himalayan Mountaineering Destinations In India

India is a country with diverse landscapes and a range of mountain ranges that make it an ideal destination for mountaineering. From the towering peaks of the Himalayas to the rocky outcrops of the Western Ghats, India offers a wide range of challenges for both beginner and experienced climbers. Here are some of the best mountaineering destinations in India:

Mount Nun-Kun Peak

Nun Kun Peak is a popular mountain peaks located in the Zanskar region of Jammu and Kashmir in India. It is considered one of the most challenging peaks in India and is popular among experienced mountaineers. Climbing Nun Kun Peak requires a high level of physical fitness and technical skills.

The best time to attempt a climb of Nun Kun Peak is between May and September, when the weather is relatively stable and conditions are favorable for climbing. However, the peak is often covered in snow for much of the year and climbers should be prepared for harsh and unpredictable weather conditions.

Mount Nanda Devi Peak

Mount Nanda Devi (7,816 meters) is the second highest peak in India and the highest peak located entirely within the country. It is located in the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve in the state of Uttarakhand and is considered sacred by the local people. The peak is surrounded by a ring of peaks, forming a protected sanctuary that is home to diverse flora and fauna. Climbing Nanda Devi is considered a technically challenging and physically demanding endeavor, and only a few expeditions are allowed each year due to the area’s protected status.

Best Time to Visit: May to June and September to October.

Mount Shivling Peak

Mount Shivling (6,543 meters) is a mountain peak located in the Gangotri Group of peaks in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India. It is considered one of the sacred peaks in Hindu mythology and is associated with Lord Shiva. The mountain is a popular destination for mountaineers, trekkers, and pilgrims, with the main trekking routes starting from Gangotri and Tapovan.

Best Time to Visit: May to June and September to November.

Mount Kamet Peak

Mount Kamet (7,756 meters) is the second highest peak in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India. It was the first peak over 7,500 meters to be climbed and is considered one of the challenging peaks in the region. The mountain is located in the Chamoli district and is part of the larger Kamet massif. The main climbing route to the summit of Kamet starts from the eastern side and requires technical climbing skills.

Best Time to Visit : June to September

Mount Satopanth Peak

Mount Satopanth is a high-altitude mountain peak located in the Indian Himalayas, in the state of Uttarakhand. It has an altitude of 7,077 meters (23,218 feet) and is one of the lesser-known peaks in the region. Despite its relative obscurity, Mount Satopanth is considered one of the more challenging peaks to climb in the Indian Himalayas, and is popular among experienced mountaineers.

The mountain is surrounded by glaciers and is known for its rugged terrain and unpredictable weather conditions. Climbers can expect to encounter steep slopes, deep snow, and high-altitude glaciers on their ascent.

Best Time to Visit: May – June to September-October

Mount Trishul Peak

Mount Trishul (7,120 meters) is a mountain peak located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India. It is part of the larger Nanda Devi massif and is considered one of the challenging peaks to climb in the region. The peak is named after the trident weapon of Lord Shiva and is considered sacred in Hindu mythology. The main climbing routes to the summit of Trishul start from the east and west sides and require technical climbing skills.

Best Time to Visit: June to September

Mount Bhagirathi

Mount Bhagirathi (6,856 meters) is a mountain peak located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, India. It is part of the larger Bhagirathi group of peaks and is considered one of the challenging peaks to climb in the region. The main climbing route to the summit of Bhagirathi starts from the east side and requires technical climbing skills. The peak is named after the river Bhagirathi, a primary tributary of the Ganges River, which is considered sacred in Hindu mythology.

Kang Yatse Peak

Kang Yatse (6,496 meters) is a mountain peak located in the Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is considered one of the most challenging peaks in the region, due to its steep and technical climbing routes. The peak is popular among experienced mountaineers and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including the Karakoram range.

Mount Chaukhamba Peak

Mount Chaukhamba is a mountain peak in the Himalayas of India, located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. It is part of the Chaukhamba mountain range and has an elevation of 7,138 meters (23,418 feet) above sea level. Mount Chaukhamba is considered a challenging peak to climb and requires proper physical fitness, preparation, and gear. The trek to the summit of Chaukhamba offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys and is a popular destination for experienced trekkers and mountaineers. The Garhwal region is known for its natural beauty and pilgrimage sites, making it a popular tourist destination.

Best Time to Visit: June to July

Mount Bandarpunch

Mount Bandarpunch (6,320 meters) is a mountain peak located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, India. It is considered a relatively easier peak to climb compared to other peaks in the region and is a popular destination for trekkers and mountaineers. The main trekking route to the base camp of Bandarpoonch starts from the town of Uttarkashi and passes through the scenic forests and meadows of the region.

Best Time to Visit: May to June and September to November

Mount Friendship

Mount Friendship, also known as the Friendship Peak, is a mountain in the Pir Panjal range of the Himalayas in India. It is located in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh and has an elevation of 5,289 meters (17,357 feet) above sea level. The peak is a popular destination for trekkers and mountaineers, offering scenic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The trek to the summit of Friendship Peak is considered moderate to difficult and requires proper physical fitness and gear.

Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to November

Chandra Bhaga peak

Chandra Bhaga, also known as Chandra Kanta, is a mountain peak in the Pir Panjal range of the Himalayas in India. It is located in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh and has an elevation of around 6,264 meters (20552 feet) above sea level. Chandra Bhaga is known for its scenic beauty and is a popular destination for trekkers and mountaineers. The trek to the summit of Chandra Bhaga is considered challenging and requires proper physical fitness, preparation, and gear.

Best Time to Visit: May to September

Mount Nanda Kot

Nanda Kot is a mountain peak in the Himalayas of India. It is located in the Uttarakhand state and has an elevation of 6,861 meters (22,510 feet) above sea level. Nanda Kot is considered to be a challenging mountain to climb and requires proper physical fitness, preparation, and gear. It is a popular destination for experienced mountaineers and trekkers. The trek to the summit of Nanda Kot offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys and is considered one of the most beautiful treks in the Himalayas.

Best Time to Visit: May to June and September to October

Matho Kangri Peak

Matho Kangri is a mountain peak in the Himalayas of India, located in the Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir. It has an elevation of 5,990 meters (19,653 feet) above sea level. Matho Kangri is considered a challenging peak to climb and requires proper physical fitness, preparation, and gear. The trek to the summit of Matho Kangri offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys and is a popular destination for experienced trekkers and mountaineers. The region is known for its unique cultural heritage and natural beauty, making it a popular tourist destination.

Stok Kangri Peak

Stok Kangri is a mountain peak in the Himalayas of India, located in the Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir. It has an elevation of 6,153 meters (20,187 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest peaks in the region. Stok Kangri is a popular destination for trekkers and mountaineers due to its challenging climb and stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The trek to the summit of Stok Kangri requires proper physical fitness, preparation, and gear, and is considered to be one of the most challenging treks in the region. The Ladakh region is known for its unique cultural heritage, natural beauty, and adventure opportunities, making it a popular tourist destination.

Best Time to Visit: May to October

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11 Best Hill Stations in India in 2024 for a Soothing Mountain Trip

In this post, I’m going to talk about the 11 best hill stations in India , which you can visit in 2024 for a soothing mountain trip.

If you love mountains, hiking , fresh air, and picturesque locations, these hill stations are the best place you can visit to add new experiences to your travel diaries.

All these hill stations are the best honeymoon destination, hiking destination and these hill stations are the best places to refresh your mind and the fresh natural environment will help re-energize your life.

Let’s dive right in.

Table of Contents

1. Manali, Himachal Pradesh – The Valley of Gods

Manali is one of the best hill stations in India and it’s one of the highest hill stations in India. It’s known for its breathtaking views, and it’s a great honeymoon destination.

Manali is one of the favorite places for Bollywood Movie shooting . Jab We Met, Bang Bang, Roja, Tubelight and lots of other Bollywood movies were shot in Manali.

Spots like Rohtang Pass, Hadimba Devi Temple, The Mall, and Solang Valley, vastly used as shooting locations for most of the Bollywood movies.

Manali is a resort town located in the mountains of the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh (Kullu district) near the northern end of the Kullu Valley in the Beas River Valley.

Manali is one of the most popular hill stations in India. With breathtaking views, dense and fresh green forests, gushing blue streams, carpeted with charming flowers, a fairy-tale-like mist lingering in the air, and a never-ending fragrance of pines and freshness –  Manali has been blessed with remarkable scenic beauty.

Best experiences : If you want to explore Manali, visit the Rohtang Pass, the highest point on the Manali-Keylong Road. Some of the other great spots here are Vashist Hot Water Springs, Jogini Falls, Kalath Hot Water Springs, and Solang Valley.

How to reach Manali : Fly to Bhuntar airport followed by a 2-hour taxi or bus ride. Also, you can take the Himachal Pradesh State bus from Delhi to Manali (553 km) which takes 10 hours.

Best time to visit: October to June

Related post: How To Become a Digital Nomad and Travel The World

2. Ooty, Tamil Nadu – Queen of the Nilgiris

Ooty is a popular and the most visited hill station located in the Nilgiri Hills. Local Residents call it Blue Hills.

Ooty (short for Udhagamandalam) is amongst the best hill stations in south India. It is a popular tourist destination for anyone looking for a picturesque place to relax and those who seek the beauty of nature and take part in activities that could add new experiences to their travel diaries.

Best Experiences : If you want to explore the beauty of Ooty, explore the cozy cottages and go for trekking along with the plantation sites for breathtaking views. You could indulge in adventurous activities like angling and hand gliding too.

How to reach Ooty : The Coimbatore international airport is the closest. Nilgiri Express leaves from Chennai to Mettupalayam near Ooty. Buses and shared taxis are available.

Best time to visit: Throughout the year

3. Darjeeling, West Bengal – Queen of the Hills

Darjeeling is located in the Lesser Himalayas at the height of 2,050 meters above sea level. It is also a popular hill station and tourist destination in India.

Darjeeling is famous for its tea industry , its views of Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest mountain, and the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (also known as Toy Train), a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Mesmerizing sunrises of Kanchenjunga, the untouched beauty of the hills, and the welcoming smiles of the local people, all these things make Darjeeling one of the most beautiful hill stations in the Eastern part of India.

This scenic hill station is a perfect romantic honeymoon destination and is just around 60 kilometers away from Siliguri, West Bengal.

Best Experiences: If you want to get the best out of your Darjeeling trip, visit a tea estate such as the Happy Valley Tea Estate, take a toy train ride through the Batasia Loop and War Memorial, visit Buddhist monasteries in Ghum, watch the spectacular Kanchenjunga from the Tiger Hill.

How to reach Darjeeling: Take a flight directly to the Bagdogra Airport followed by a 4-hour taxi ride. Or take the train to New Jalpaiguri followed by a 4-hour taxi. Also, you can take a 2.5-hour bus or taxi ride from Siliguri to reach Darjeeling.

Best time to visit : February to March, September to December

Read more: 17 Genuine Ways to Make Passive Income While You Sleep

4. Gangtok, Sikkim – The Gateway to Sikkim

Surrounded by the dense green forests, Gangtok is a must-visit hill station while visiting the Shivalik Hills and beautiful North-East India.

Gangtok is the capital city and the largest town of the Indian state of Sikkim. Just like Darjeeling, Gangtok can also give you a spectacular view of Mt. Kanchenjunga . Within the higher peaks of the Himalaya, majestic locations and pleasing climate, Gangtok is at the center of Sikkim’s tourism industry.

So, if you’re a nature and an adventure lover , Gangtok is the must-visit hill station you can visit to add new flavor to your adventurous life and to refresh your mind.

Best Experiences : Visit Tsomgo Lake and Gurudongmar Lake, the two most scenic and highest mountain lakes in the world, making this one of the best hill tourist places in India.

Also, you can visit the historical Nathula Pass. Some of the other must-visit tourist attractions of Gangtok are Fambong La Wildlife Sanctuary, Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, Rumtek Monastery, and Tashiding Monastery, and Enchey Monastery.

How to reach Gangtok : Take a flight directly to the Bagdogra Airport followed by a 2.5-hour taxi ride. Or take the train to New Jalpaiguri followed by a 2.5-hour taxi ride.

Best time to visit : Throughout the year

5. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand – The Queen of Hill Stations in India!

Mussoorie is among the best hill stations in India to visit. It’s a famous hill station in the Dehradun District of Uttarakhand.

The hill station is in the foothills of the Garhwal Himalayan range. Mussoorie, also known as Queen of The Hills, stands at an altitude of 7000 feet above sea level and has a cool, pleasant climate throughout the year.

Its pleasant weather, tranquil hills, and natural beauty make it a top choice for couples and that’s why it’s a great honeymoon destination .

Best Experiences : Visit the churches, shop woolen clothes at Mall Road, visit and take a cool bath at Kempty Falls, Mussoorie’s most popular tourist attraction.

How to reach Mussoorie: Dehradun Airport is the nearest airport. One can also drive from the nearest metros via Dehradun city.

Best time to visit: September to June

Read more: Leh Ladakh Bike Trip 2024: A Complete Trip Guide for Bikers

6. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh – One of the most famous hill stations in India – The Queen of Hills

Probably the most popular hill station in northern India , Shimla is the capital city of Himachal Pradesh famous for its Mall road, the Ridge, toy train, etc

Shimla is famous for its colonial heritage buildings and British architecture. This combined with the natural beauty makes it a perfect destination for a summer trip in North India.

Shimla has been a very popular hill-station among honeymooners and Indian families for the last 50 years.

Best Experiences: Enjoy a quiet picnic at the Glen next to a captivating stream and the beautiful Dorje Drak Monastery. See various species of birds at the Himalayan Aviary. Other prominent sites include Jakhu Hill, Darlaghat, Scandal Point, Solan Brewery, Kamna Devi Temple, and Gurkha Gate.

How to reach Shimla: Take a flight directly to Jubbarhatti in Shimla. Or take the train to Kalka followed by a 2-hour taxi ride.

7. Munnar, Kerala – Kashmir of South India

Munnar is a town and hill station located in the Idukki district of Kerala. Munnar is known as the “Kashmir of South India” and is a popular honeymoon destination.

Munnar is famous for its tea estates and exotic lush greenery, located in the Western Ghats. In addition, Munnar has many protected areas that are home to endemic and highly endangered species like the Nilgiri Tahr and the Neelakurinji – a rare flower species that blossoms only once in 12 years.

Munnar is full of green and romantic locations that can capture your heart. It is ideally suited for honeymoon gateways.

Best Experiences: You could engage yourself in rock climbing, trekking, yoga, and boating. With so much to offer to tea lovers, nature lovers, and thrill-seekers, Munnar is definitely among the best hill stations in India to visit.

Also, you can visit Eravikulam National Park, Anamudi, Pothamedu, Mattupetty Dam, Tea Museum, The blossom International Etc. 

How to reach Munnar: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, which is about 110 km from Munnar. The nearest railway station is at Aluva, at a distance of 110 km. Local transportation services – bus and cab are available to reach Munnar.

Best time to visit: September to May

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8. Coorg, Karnataka – The Scotland of India

We were first introduced to Coorg when we were in the 10th standard. Our English textbook had a dedicated chapter featuring the beautiful Coorg, its rich culture, and its glorious history.

Located within captivating mountains in Karnataka with an eternal misty landscape, Coorg is the best place to be for all nature lovers.

This popular coffee producing evergreen hill station is not only popular for its beautiful green hills and the streams, but It also stands as a popular destination because of its rich and unique culture and the Kodavas , a local clan specializing in martial arts, are especially remarkable for their enthusiastic hospitality.

Best Experiences: The beautiful scenery, mountain ranges with a spectacular view, warm hospitality of people can fascinate you towards the hill station. The other attractions include Abbey falls, Churches, Forts, and Nagarahole (Wild-life sanctuary).

How to reach Coorg: The nearest railway station is at Mysore which is about 100 km away from Coorg. Buses are frequently available to take off to Coorg on a 4-5 hours comfortable journey.

Best time to visit: October to March

9. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu – The Princess of Hill Stations

In the Tamil Kodaikanal means “The Gift of the Forest”. Kodaikanal is referred to as the “Princess of Hill stations” and has a long history as a popular tourist destination.

Kodaikanal stands at an altitude of 7200 feet above sea level and has a cool, pleasant climate all year round.

Located in the state of Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal is one of the most famous honeymoon destinations in India . Kodaikanal is famous for its wonderful climate, cloud-capped mountains and beautiful lakes and valleys.

Best Experiences: Go for a boat ride in the Kodaikanal lake and trek to the Pillar rocks for scenic views. Also, visit the parks and nature walk in the Pine Forests.

How to reach Kodaikanal: Closest airports are at Trichy, Madurai, and Coimbatore. The nearest railway station is at Kodai road which is 100 km away from Kodaikanal. One can travel by road to reach Kodaikanal.

Read more: How to Find Your Passion and Pursue a Career You Love

10. Nainital, Uttarakhand – Lake District of Uttarakhand

Nainital is a popular hill station in the Indian state of Uttarakhand.

It’s one of the most beautiful tourist destinations in Uttarakhand, Also famously known as ‘City of Lakes’, with its tranquil lakes, snow-capped hills it can be called a picturesque paradise for mountain lovers and backpackers..

Situated at an altitude of 1938 km above sea level, Nainital has a pleasant climate all year round.

The lush green oak, rhododendron, and pine forests make it a perfect destination to relax and refresh your mind.

Best Experiences: Go for a picnic at the beautiful Kilbury or The Tiffin Top. Visit the Land’s End to enjoy the mesmerizing views of Khurpatal Lake and trek the Naina Peak, the highest peak of Nainital.

How to reach Nainital: Take a flight to Pantnagar (72 km) followed by a 1.5-hour taxi ride. Or take the train to Kathgodam (41 km) followed by a 1-hour taxi ride. Buses from ISBT Anand Vihar run to Nainital in 9 hours.

Tawang Gate – Image source – Dhrubazaanphotography / CC BY-SA

11. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh – The birthplace of Dalai Lama

Situated at an elevation of approximately 3,048 meters, Tawang is one of the coldest places in India.

Tawang is a town in the North-East Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh, known for many important and beautiful monasteries and is famous as the birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama , Tsangyang Gyatso.

Tawang is a place that will fascinate you with its natural beauty wrapped in the fragrance of spirituality. Breathtaking valleys, misty rivers, and stunning waterfalls give you the ultimate experience in the mystical Tawang.

Best Experiences : Visit the snow-clad Sela Pass for a spectacular view and visit the beautiful Paradise Lake on your way there. Make a trip to the Tawang Monastery, the largest monastery in India. Other destinations are Gorichen Peak, Tipi Orchid Sanctuary, the Shonga-tser Lake, Teng Tso Lake, Bap Teng Kang Waterfall, Pankang, and Nuranang Waterfalls.

How to reach Tawang: Take a flight directly to the Salonibari Airport, Tezpur followed by a 6-hour taxi ride. Or take the train to Guwahati followed by a 13-hour taxi ride.

Best time to visit : September to March

Read more: 9 Proven Ways to Monetize Your Blog – Make Money Blogging

Final thoughts: 11 Best Hill Stations in India in 2024 for a Soothing Mountain Trip.

Manali, Shimla, Mussoorie, and Nainital are among the most popular hill stations in north India. Kodaikanal, Munnar, Coorg, Ooty and are the most popular hill stations in South India. Gangtok, Darjeeling, and Tawang are the lesser crowded but well-known hill stations in North-East India.

With pleasant weather, all these hill stations are full of natural beauty, picturesque locations, evergreen forests, and spectacular views of beautiful mountains, and these hill stations are some well-known honeymoon destinations and the best places to refresh your mind and body.

Visit these hill stations to add new experiences to your travel diaries.

Now It’s Your Turn

Hey, I hope you enjoyed reading this list of the 11 Best Hill Stations in India in 2024 for a Soothing Mountain Trip.

Now I would like to hear from you:

What’s your favorite hill station from this list and which are the hill stations that you want to add to your bucket list?

Let me know in the comment section below right now!

Also, share this post with your friends and travelers who want to learn more about the 11 Best Hill Stations in India.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact us . We are always available to help travelers like you.

Life is a journey!

Keep traveling!

About the Author: Inu Etc

Really so perfectly elaborated! Its so helpful for the people who are eagerly planning for honeymoon. It also Saves money!

Now a days , everyone loves to visit foreign places because of its beauty or wanted to spend their honeymoon . But after reading these, you gonna change your mind !

Yes, once i visited Darjeeling and i must say its one of the beautiful places i ever seen in India!

Thanks a lot for your supportive comment!

Yeah, all these hill stations are great place for honeymoon as well as hiking, trekking and just to refresh your mind.

Also, India is a beautiful country full of natural beauty, unique climate, picturesque locations. So, I think there is more known and unknown place in India, which we can explore and gain experiences.

I too visited Darjeeling and it was a great experience and no doubt it’s one of the best hill stations in India.

Again thanks for your descriptive comment.

Stay tuned and keep supporting!

The Hill stations you wrote about all are beautiful and unique and all the hill stations had their own importance. I belong to Darjeeling which is famous for its lush green Tea gardens and for its variety of organic tea’s. But the question arise have you explored the heart of Darjeeling hill station. Its non other than kurseong, Land of white Orchidswith a scenic beauty and famous for its educational hub. Thank you.

Hey Yogesh,

I have been to Darjeeling and I want to explore Kurseong after reading your comment. You’re a lucky man living in this beautiful place.

Thanks a lot for your comment.

Leave A Comment Cancel reply

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19 Aug Best Mountaineering Expeditions in India

About climbing in india.

‘You are not in the mountains. The mountains are in you.’ The Mountains of India , India has been the hotspot for mountaineers for a long time, The Mountains of India offer you to climb above 5000 M, 6000 M and 7000 M peaks which makes it ideal for Technical or non-technical excursions. The states of Jammu and Kashmir union territory, Ladakh UT, Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand are among the most popular hill destinations in India. Peak climbing in India is also preferred by climbers as they provide a unique and vibrant culture for the locals. Trek to these peaks takes you across local, remote areas and villages, and allows you to communicate, and experience their lives.

‘With climbing in Indian Himalayas, you can also choose to climb the 5000M , 6000M and 7000 M Mountains, The Mountains of India are also the first choices of those climbers who want to climb the 14 above 8000M (Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, Nanga Parbat, etc). Most of the mountains of India are climbed between May – Mid December. Climb the above 7000M peak in Ladakh UT Mount Nun 7135, Mount Kun 7077, Friendship peak 5289M, Hanuman Tibba 5490M, Deo Tibba 6001M Expedition in Manali Himachal Pradesh, Mount Satopanth 7075M, Mount Shivling 6543M and Tenchenkhang 6010 M, in Sikkim Himalayas, Gorichen Peak 6526M mountain in Eastern Himalayas Sikkim. All the summit of these mountains treats you to some breathtaking views of the picturesque beauty of the Indian Himalayas.

Read the full article to get the full knowledge of top climbing expeditions in the Indian Himalayas .

Note: Climbers, from India or International both need to apply to the IMF (Indian Mountaineering Foundation) for permits before embarking on an expedition in India. Every foreign climbing expedition will be required to be accompanied by an Indian LO appointed by the IMF. The LO (Liaison Officer) will be treated as a member of the expedition.

*HAVE A LOOK AT THE LIST OF 11 BEST PEAK CLIMBING EXPEDITIONS IN INDIA, AND THEN SELECT THE ONE THAT WORKS BEST FOR YOU.

01) mount nun 7135m ladakh (ut) india:.

The highest peak in the Nun Kun massif, Mount Nun expedition 7135M India . Climbing above 7000M and for the best technical peaks experience, Nun peak is the first choice of mountaineers. The massif Nun – Kun is located in Suru valley of the Kargil district Ladakh UT. The first ascent of Mount Nun peak was in 1953 by a French climber Mr Pierre Vittoz, and Mrs Claude Kogan along with the India Sherpa team.

Route to Climb Mount Nun : Delhi – Leh Ladakh – Kargil – Tangol – Basecamp – Camp 01 – Camp 02 – Summit Camp – Summit Mt Nun 7135M – Camp 01 – Base camp – Kargil – Leh Ladakh – Delhi The entire expedition requires good, advanced technical skills or previous experience, the expedition takes a minimum 25, 27 (Delhi to Delhi) days to climb.

02) Mount Kun 7077 M Ladakh (Ut) India:

The Nun Kun mountain massif is a pair of Himalayan peaks: Nun, 7,135 m (23,409 ft) and its neighbour peak Kun Peak, 7,077 m (23,218 ft). Mount Kun 7077M is one of the highest peaks of Suru valley Kargil/ Ladakh (UT) India, which is located in the Zanskar range of the Himalayas. Mt. Kun is located north of Nun and is separated from it by a snowy plateau around 5-6 km. NunKun Massif Mountain is considered a part of the greater Himalayan Range Zanskar. Mount Kun and Mt Nun are just a few miles apart, although they have entirely different routes to climb. Kun peak India was first successfully climbed in 1913 by Italian climbers Borelli ed Gaspard and Mario Piacenza. After that in 1971 Indian army summited the top of Mount Kun. Every year more than 5, 6 six climbing teams (National or International) come to the summit. Mount Kun is a technical peak that requires your pre-experience in the field of climbing expeditions. To get the climbing permit Indian climbers need to submit their Basic or advanced course of Mountaineering to the Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF) and International climbers need to apply for booking at least three months before and send their Passport or Visa copy. The entire expedition requires good, advanced technical skills or previous experience, the expedition takes a minimum of 25, 27 (Delhi to Delhi) days to climb.

Route to Climb Mount Kun : Delhi – Leh Ladakh – Kargil – Shafat Nala– Basecamp – Camp 01 – Camp 02 – Summit Camp – Summit Mt Kun 7077 M – Camp 01 – Base camp – Shafat Nala – Kargil – Leh Ladakh – Delhi

03) Kang Yatse II Peak Expedition Ladakh India:

Mount Kang Yatse is the less known peaks of two massifs, both the peaks are above 6000 M. Kang Yatse II , at 6,250M Kang Yatse I 6,400M. Mt Kang Yatse is located in the land of high passes Leh Ladakh, in Hemis National Park. It takes 05, and 06 days to reach the basecamp of Mt Kang Yatse through Markha Valley. Most of the trekkers come to Kang Yatse after the Markha valley trek to get the buy one get one free offer. Mount Kang Yatse II is the non-technical peak; it’s required only for your excellent physical fitness. That’s why so many trekkers come to summit the above 6000m peak. Some climbers come to the summit of Kang Yatse for acclimatization after that they go climbing the above 7000 M peak of mount Nun or mount Kun.

Route To Climb Mount Kang Yatse 2: Delhi – Leh – Chilling – Skiu – Markha – Thachungtse – Nimaling – Base Camp – Summit Mt KANG YATSE II – Base Camp – Chokdo via Kongmaru La – Leh

04) Friendship Peak (5289M) Trek Manali Himachal Pradesh India:

Friendship peak is a mountain of 5,289 meters altitude located in the Pir Panjal Range of Kullu district Himachal Pradesh. Friendship peak trek is an ideal trek for the first step in the technical climbing mountains. Mount friendship peak expedition is the ideal peak for beginner climbers. It’s a Semi-Technical peak that requires physical fitness and Basic knowledge of trekking equipment. You will get the panoramic summit views of Mt Indrasen, Deo Tibba, Shitidhar, Hanuman Tibba and the distant Dhauladhar range. The trek initially is a simple hike through meadows and forest with the Beas River flowing beside. The Base camp of the Mount friendship is at Bakarthach. From Bakarthach you get a clear view of seven sister mountains and Mount Hanuman tibba. In the Basecamp of friendship peak (Bakarthach), you will also get the opportunity to meet with a young mountaineer who is doing the Basic or Advanced courses of Mountaineering with Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Mountaineering and Allied Sports (ABVIMAS). Friendship peak in Manali, Himachal Pradesh also famous for skiing down expeditions, Ski down from above 5000M peak give a unique experience for ski lovers, Mid March is the best time for the ski down from Mount friendship peak India.

Route to Climb Mount Friendship peak: Delhi – Chandigarh – Manali – Dhundi (Via Solnag) – Bakarthach (BC) – Lady Leg – Camp 1 – Summit – Bakarthach (BC) – Dhundi – Manali – Chandigarh Delhi

05) Mount Deo Tibba (6001M) Expedition India:

Climb the second highest peak of the Pir Panjal range Mt Deo Tibba. The trek to the base camp starts from the Jagatsukh Nala. Deo Tibba peak is a popular mountain for intermediate mountaineers with some technical experience; this peak is ideal for trekkers who are starting out in the mountaineering/Climbing field. The first ascent of Mount Deo tibba  peak was in 1952 by Dutchman Van Graaf from the west ridge. It’s a three days trek to reach the basecamp of Deo tibba peak, Deo tibba peak in India is religious as it is believed to be the assembly place of all the Gods. Deo tibba expedition Manali Himachal Pradesh is perfect for climbers to summit the height of 6000M+ and prepare themselves for higher climbing peaks in the near future.

06) Mt. CB 13 and CB 14 Peak Climbing Expedition, Manali Himachal Pradesh India

Mount CB (Chandra Bhaga) is a group of peaks locatin ed in the Lahaul massif Himachal Pradesh India, Mount. CB 13 (6264M) and Mount. CB 14 (6078M) is two massif peaks near the beautiful Chandratal Lake near Batal. CB 13 and CB 14 peaks require pre-riencednced climbers who want to go to the next level and experience an exciting journey to the summit. The summits of these two beautiful peaks give you amazing and panoramic views of the Kunzum range, the ChandraTal Lake and the gushing Chandra River. To climb both the peak also comes under the IMF (Indian Mountaineering Foundation) so you also need to pre-book the expedition to get the permit.

07) Mt. Shivling (6543M) Climbing Expedition, Gangotri Uttarakhand, India

Mount Shivling Peak Expedition India is a twin summit mountain. Mt Shivling is also considered one of the most challenging peaks in the Indian Himalayas. Mt Shivling is located in the Gangotri national park of Garhwal Himalayas. The lush green meadows of Tapovan are the base camp of Mount. Shivling peak is one of the most famous treks in Uttarakhand. Climbers, from India or International both need to apply to the IMF Indian Mountaineering Foundation) for permits before embarking on an expedition in India.

“ I still remember the physical reaction of turning the corner and seeing Shivling for the first time. Jaw dropped, eyes wide, heart pumping. The truly stunning beauty of granite and ice. Still on the shortlist. Garwhal Himalayas, India ” Jimmy Chin

08) Mount Satopanth 7075M Climbing Expedition, Gangotri  Uttarakhand, India

Climb the second highest mountain of the Gangotri group of peaks in Garhwal, Uttarakhand, Interested to climb above 7000M peak, book your expedition to Mt Satopanth peak 7075M India. Mt Satopanth which means “True Path” in local beliefs. The trekking trail for Mt. Satopanth base camp crosses through the Gangotri temple (holy places among the four Char Dham Yatra), and Gaumukh (source of the holy Bhagirathi River). Mount Satopanth is also the first choice of the climbers who want to climb Mount Everest above 8000 M peak, they come to embark on Satopanth peak as a pre-Everest expedition. During the trek to the Satopanth peak, you get the viws of Thalay Sagar peak, Mt. Shivling ,and the Bhagirathi group of mountains.

09) Mount Kedardome 6831M Climbing Expedition, Gangotri Uttarakhand, India:

Mount Kedardome climbing peak expedition located in the Garhwal range of Indian Himalayas near to the Bhagirathi group of mountains, Mt Shivling, Mount Satopanth and Gangotri massif. This high dome-shaped peak has an altitude of 6,832M; the Kedar Dome peak in India is the third-highest peak in the Gangotri group of mountains in Uttarakhand India. Mount Kedardome is the ideal stepping peak to climb above 7000m. Mount Kedar dome peak in India It is also popular for ski-mountaineering. Mt. Kedardome passes the area of Chirbasa, Bhojwassa, Gomukh and Tapovan. During the trek to the Mount Kedardome base camp, you will witness some of the most beautiful as well as challenging peaks in the Gangotri region (Bhagirathi Group of mountains, Mount. Shivling, Meru peak India , Mt Kharchakund etc. Kedardome peak is ideal for ski ascents and is popular amongst skiers around the world.

10) Mount. Tenchenkhang 6010M Climbing Expedition, Sikkim, India:

Sikkim shares a mountain border with Nepal, China. Sikkim (Where Nature Smiles) a beautiful state in India remains unrivalled when it comes to the amazing experience of mountain climbing. Recently Sikkim was also introduced as a mountaineering destination. The Sikkim Government has opened some of its climbing peaks to adventure lovers. Top Peaks in Sikkim Himalayas Region Frey Peak 5889M, Mt. Jopuno 5603M, Mount. Lama Wangden 5868M, Brumkhangse Peak 5868M, Mount. Tenchenkhang 6010M. is situated in the western part of Sikkim, under Kanchenjunga National. Thinchenkhang peak has been declared a trekking peak by Sikkim Govt in 1990. The trek to the Tenchenkhang passes through the Beautiful Remote Villages Yuksom. During the trek to the Mount Thinchenkhang base camp you will witness some of the most beautiful as well as challenging peaks in Sikkim (Khangchendzonga National Park), Mount Kanchenjunga 8586M, Mt Talung 7349M, Mt. Rathong 6679M, Mt. Koktang6147M, Mt. Simvo 6812, Mount. Frey 5853M, Mt. Kabru S 7318M, Kabru Dome 6600M, Kabru Forked 6100M, Mount Pandim 6691M, Mount Tenchenkhang6010M, Mount Jupono 5650M.

11) Mount Gorichen Peak 6858M Climbing Expedition, Arunachal Pradesh, India

Gorichen is the highest climbing peak in Arunachal Pradesh India, Other peaks include Gorichen II (21,287 feet (6,488 m)), Gorichen East (20,413 feet (6,222 m)) and Gorichen South (20,496 feet (6,247 m)) towering at a height of over ft above ocean position. Because of its elevation, Gorichen remains snowbound throughout the time and has charmed the hearts of numerous seasoned perambulators and adventure-loving pedestrians. Positioned at a distance of 164 km from the main city, this peak is locally known as Tsa-Nga-Phu, which translates into the area of the deity. You can see better views of this peak during the road drive between Bomdila and Tawang. The Monpa lineage worships this peak as they believe it’s vital for their actuality and protects them from all immoralities. Locally, people frequently relate to it as the giant white giant because of the unmistakable, white carpet of snow that covers it, making it one of the most distinctive and fluently identifiable peaks in this region. The view is mesmerizing as there are patches of green meadows and green timbers that can be seen in the interlocking denes below, while the bright white snow-limited peaks palace over them, shining in the sun.

 Kahlur Adventures (About us):

About Kahlur Adventures : Plan your next adventure in India with the new startup company “Kahlur Adventure India ” we provide all kinds of logistic support that help climbers to embark on the Mountains of India. Since it’s a new startup we are offering a value-for-money price. We take all the required permits from the local govt authorization as well full expedition acknowledgment letter from IMF (Indian Mountaineering Foundation), and all the equipment including alpine tents are UIAA certified. All our guides and Sherpa are well-certified mountaineers recognized by the govt mountaineering institutes in India.

Note: Kahlur Adventures India will not run any expedition or trek without Insurance.

Pankaj Chandel

The Mountains of India

Thomas Edison

Thank you so much for sharing this Pankaj, definitely come with you in 2023 for Shivling peak.

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Very informative blog, Send the details of Mount Nun and Kun expedition, 03 people’s.

Please join our social media for more adventure updates @kahluradventures

Swaraj Ghosh

We’re 12 climbers & Base Camp trekkers for Tinchenkhang. we’re going to plan in Oct-Nov 2023. Please share the cost & booking details.

real madrid

I am happy for sharing on this blog its awesome blog I really impressed. thanks for sharing. Great efforts.

helpful blog and thanks for providing a blog commenting list. These sites really help me.

Wow, wonderful weblog layout! How long have you ever been running a blog for? you made running a blog look easy.

The overall look of your web site is great, as neatly as the content material!

Ankush SIngh Jamwal

Ankush Singh Jamwal this side.

Thanks for sharing teh Info.

Can you suggest peaks like Friendship peak or beginner peaks for someone who have enough High altitude trekking experience and wants to move into now.

Any Peaks between 4500-5500 apart from friendship peaks

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Popular mountain passes in india, himalayas.

The great Indian Himalayan range which dominates the world’s skyline is a true marvel of nature and a treat to the eyes. Often many people driven by the desire to conquer the lofty heights of the Himalayan range embark on a trekking tour to the Himalayan ranges to explore some of its most beautiful mountain passes, but without proper information regarding the expedition, only a few among them can achieve a fulfilling adventure.

It is obvious that trekking in the Indian Himalayan region often enlightens us and fills us with vigor and zeal, yet for some it still remains an unattainable pipe dream. Offering an exciting time through its trails, the Himalayas often pull people to trace its tracks even with some easy treks. A perfect trekking expedition in the Indian Himalayan region can be successful only if the route is hurdle free. But trekking through the Himalayas can never be a truly smooth experience, with the mountains offering their fair share of boulder-ridden tracks, narrow ridges, moraines and blizzards, all at the highest altitudes, making the trekking expedition through the mountain passes even more adventurous.

Mountain passes are roads that are used to traverse through the mountains using the shortest route possible. These mountain passes make way through the mountain gap, saddle or col and mostly always offer a rough track making the journey strenuous and dangerous. Here we come across a list of some of the lesser explored Indian mountain passes from the Himalayas, which often attract explorers from all over the world for their beauty and impossibly high altitudes.

Also Check Out:

• Trekking & Hiking Tours in Uttarakhand
• Trekking & Hiking Tours in Himachal
• Trekking & Hiking Tours in Ladakh
• Trekking & Hiking Tours in Sikkim

Borasu Pass

Uttarakhand has always remained the heart of adventure activities in India. Considered one of the most popular mountain passes for trekking in India, Uttarakhand has the Borasu Pass, lying at an altitude of 17,880 ft. in the Garhwal region. The pass divides the states of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh and used to function as an ancient trade route between the valleys of Har-ki-Dun and Kinnaur. The pass remains a favorite for trekkers who love to take up an expedition here. The Borasu Pass trek starts from the village of Sankri in Uttarakhand and ends at Chitkul, in Himachal Pradesh, covering a span of 7 to 8 days in the scenic vistas of the Himalayas.

Dhumdharkandi Pass

The Dhumdharkandi Pass in Uttarakhand comes with an arduous topography and is considered to be one of the more challenging mountain passes to trek in the Himalayan region. This pass connects the Hindu pilgrimage sites of Gangotri to Yamunotri and passes through steep valleys, and snow-capped mountains. Trekking through the pass will take a total of 12 to 14 days to complete. One of the most beautiful mountain passes in India, at a height of 18,012 ft. this pass takes one through the glaciers of Kalanag, Swaragrohini, and Banderpunch. With unpredictable weather and rough terrains, trekking through the Dhumdharkandi Pass is only something experienced trekkers should undertake.

Sitting at an altitude of 18,307 ft. Parang La is best known for connecting the regions of Himachal Pradesh with Ladakh. This beautiful mountain pass, spread over two states, offers a thrilling trek for the experienced ones. Taking a total of 10-12 days to complete the trail, trekking on the pass provides scenic views of the mighty Trans-Himalayan ranges, extensive meadows, local villages, deep gorger, and the beautiful lake of Tso Moriri. The route of Parang La will also takes you through streams and rivers that need to be crossed on the trek. An important mountain pass of India, Parang La acts as a bridge connecting the regions of southeastern Ladakh and Spiti Valley of Himachal.

Karakoram Pass

One of the most popular mountain passes in India, the Karakoram Pass lies at a height of 18,172 ft. and forms a part of the Karakoram Range. Located along the ancient silk route in Ladakh, between the countries of India and China, this pass has always been remarked as one of the most difficult mountain passes of India to travel due to rough weather. The speeding winds and inhospitable conditions that prevail on the pass make it harder for trekking. Despite such weather conditions, the pass is considered easier to travel due to its gradual ascent. Though an important mountain pass for the two countries, the Karakoram Pass is not a motorable pass.

Sasser Pass

Set at an elevation of 17,753 ft. Sasser Pass is an ancient summer caravan route that starts from Leh in Ladakh to Yarkand in the Tarim Basin in China. The trek across this mountain pass begins from the Nubra valley in Ladakh via Sasoma and takes approximately 14 to 15 days to cover. Among the highest mountain passes in India, the Sasser Pass has rough and steep terrains that make trekking here difficult, but a rewarding experience. Set amidst the Karakoram Range, the Sasser Pass is among the most scenic mountain passes to explore in India. Lying on the golden sands of Ladakh, the Sasser Pass lies at a distance of 37 km southeast of the Siachen Glacier.

Ladakh, an abode of high mountain passes in India, has another beautiful pass called the Phirtse La. Lying at an altitude of 17,880 ft. the pass is a fun escape for adventurers from all over the world and makes for an exciting trekking expedition. The actual trek for the pass begins from the Darcha village in Himachal Pradesh, an ideal place for camping and then continues the expedition through Baralacha La, Phirtse La and Padum valley, surrounded by the mesmerizing landscape of clear skies, rocky terrains, and vast valleys. This scenic mountain pass takes one over the Zanskar region of Ladakh and is a worthwhile trek to take on.

Kalindi Khal Pass

Kalindi Khal Pass, one of India’s highest trekkable mountain passes, is situated at 19,494 feet above sea level in Uttarakhand. The terrain that must be traversed makes hiking via the pass one of the most challenging trekking adventures. Trekking the Kalindi Khal Pass will take you across rugged glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and glacier paths. The trek commences from Gangotri in Uttarakhand, moving through the meadows of Tapovan and Nandanvan and follow Khara Pathar, Sweta Glacier till the camp of Kalindi Bhamak. After passing through Nandanvan, the route becomes difficult due to the sharp bends and ascents along challenging glacier paths.

Manirang Pass

One of the least explored mountain passes in the region of the Himalayas, perched at an elevation of 18,208 ft. sits the Manirang Pass in Himachal Pradesh. In the state, this mountain pass serves as a bridge between the valleys of Kinnaur and Spiti. A very difficult pass to conquer, the Manirang Pass features several dangerous and steep trails that inexperienced hikers should steer clear of. Along with the rough terrains, the pass also comes with challenging weather conditions and a desert-like region that make trekking a difficult task to accomplish. The trek begins from the Ropa Valley in Kinnaur through a narrow and steep gorge, leading to the Mane village. A less traversed pass, parts of the Manirang Pass can present to be dangerous due to occurrence of landslides in the region.

Ghunsarng Pass

At an elevation of 18,208 ft. in Himachal Pradesh, Ghunsarng Pass is another mountain pass that offers a thrilling option for trekkers to explore the less ventured paths in Himachal Pradesh. The trek to Ghunsarng Pass follows the same route as of the Manirang Pass but thereafter dips down to Sopona followed by a steep climb to the Ghunsarng Pass. An exciting trait to follow, the mountain pass of Ghunsarng is equally challenging as the Manirang Pass, with each providing a rewarding experience to the trekker.

Sin La Pass

Another ancient trade route between India and Tibet that is perched at an elevation of 18,028 ft. in the Kumaon Himalayan region, Sin La is a paradise for trekkers, and connects the valleys of Darma and Kuti in the state of Uttarakhand. The trek to Sin La is one of moderate to difficult treks in the Kumaon region of the Himalayas and begins from the village of Pithoragarh, continuing through Pangu, with an uphill climb to Sosa, onwards to Narayan Ashram, with a steep descent to Budi, and Gunji which present the traveler with lush, green meadow. The Pass continues to Kuti, Jolinkong eventually reaching the Sin La Pass after a further trek through the scenic vistas of Uttarakhand.

Khardung La Pass

One of the most popular motorable high altitude mountain passes in India, is Ladakh’s Khardung La situated at an elevation of 17,582 ft. A mountain biking expedition through this pass in the Himalayas will lead you to the valleys of Shyok and Nubra, as you get immersed in the panoramic vistas of Ladakh. Covered in snow for most of the year, the roads of Khardung La may get difficult to travel along as the season gets colder with an increase in the snowfall. Due to the frost and snow that covers the pass, biking on the road can turn out to be quite dangerous, so it is always better to be cautious of the weather conditions when you travel to the beautiful mountain pass of Khardung La.

Fun fact: Although it is not the highest motorable mountain pass in the world, it is still believed to be otherwise by a lot of people.   

Marsimik La Pass

Marsimik La at 18,313 ft. is one of the highest motorable mountain passes in the Indian Himalayan region of Ladakh, lying northeast to the Khardung La. The pass is an adventurous and challenging route for bikers that love to snake through several jolting, rocky and sandy tracks with steep inclines. Located in the Chang-Chenmo Range, the Marsimik La faces harsh weather conditions that make it harder for the travelers to traverse through. Therefore, it is important that if you plan to travel through the Marsimik La, you acclimatize yourself properly before taking on the journey to the Marsimik La for a safer trekking experience.

Also known as Dungri La, the Mana Pass is perched at an elevation of 18,477 ft. This mountain pass in the Himalayas is located within the periphery of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve and is another high altitude motorable mountain pass of India. As beautiful and majestic as it may be, unfortunately access to civilians is not easily permitted as it is only used by the Indian Army and Indo-Tibetan Border Police for carrying supplies to border posts, since this mountain pass finds itself along the Indo-China borders. Even after obtaining permits from the local police, the local army and the district court, getting through this mountain pass remains at the discretion of the army.

Chang La Pass

This mountain pass in the Himalayas is considered to be among the highest motorable mountain passes in the world! The gateway to Pangong Lake, Chang La at an elevation of 17,585 ft. is yet another motorable mountain pass located in Ladakh. During the peak season of tourism, the pass gets busy when tourists flock to the union territory. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and the landscape of Ladakh, Chang La is a true beauty to behold that is sure to mesmerize its visitors. Due to the harsh climatic conditions of the region and its location at such a high altitude, it is not a road for everyone to take. The steep slopes of the mountain pass in addition, can make it harder to travel on, but can also be equally rewarding.

Taglang La Pass

Located at an elevation of 17,480 ft. Tagland La is among the highest motorable mountain passes in the world and lies on the Manali – Leh Highway in the union territory of Ladakh. With such a height, and winding roads, this mountain pass in the Himalayas can turn out to be an exciting challenge for the competent driver. The pass is often claimed to be the second highest motorable mountain pass in the world, but it is simply not true, though Taglang La does remain among the highest motorable mountain passes in the world. Surrounded by snowy mountains and clear streams, this mountain pass is a sight for sore eyes, and creates a landscape that is not easy to forget. One of the most beautiful passes in India, the Taglang La is a place that must be explored for those who are not afraid of heights.

Omasi La Pass

One of the least explored mountain passes in the union territory of Ladakh region is Omasi La or Umasi La, located at an elevation of 17,716 ft. Trekking through the pass is considered to be an extreme expedition due to the challenging terrains and rough weather that accompany. The journey through Omasi La is also strenuous due to it being located along glaciated paths of Ladakh, and therefore requires trekkers to have prior experience of trekking as well as knowledge of ice tools to trek. A trek through the Omasi La takes one through the villages of Ladakh, where the local culture and way of life can be viewed. The trek to Omasi La follows a gentle climb along a glacial river where one can also visit the Zongkul Monastery. Although the journey acquaints you with the barren and beaten landscape, one can still explore the wilderness and sight animals like yaks and horses.

Kanji La Pass

At an elevation of 17,946 ft. Kanji La is yet another less explored mountain pass in Ladakh. The pass connects the remote villages of Kanji with Rangdum and takes one through the offbeat tracks of Ladakh, through various gorges, forests, and rough terrains, amidst the snow-covered Himalayas. Some of the major attractions on the Kanji La trek are the Rangdum Monastery and the spectacular Kanji valley. Along the trail, one also gets to witness numerous rivers, which further add to the beauty of this offbeat mountain pass of Kanji La.

Poat La Pass

The ancient territory of Zanskar has always been a grapevine to travelers attracting countless adventurers from different parts of the world. At an elevation of 18,011 ft. Poat La is one of the least explored mountain passes in the Himalayan region that connects the Trans Himalayan ranges with Zanskar. A trek to the beautiful mountain pass of Poat La starts from Tiyul, a few hours’ drive from Padum and crosses various streams, meadows, and snow laden paths. Some of the major attractions on this trail are Bardan and Mune Monastery.The mountain pass of Poat La sits as a fence between the green Kishtwar and the dry, barren desert of Zanskar. Trekking to Poat La is perfect for those who love a challenging and offbeat destination to try on their next expedition.

Sersang La Pass

If you want to travel through the Trans–Himalayan ranges and maneuver to the Zanskar region, Sersang La, lying at an elevation of 16,732 ft. is one of the exciting mountain passes to take. The trek to Sersang La commences from Atholi, thereafter leading to Sho and Bistaun, following along the River Chenab, later turning to Ganmas from Dharwas. Another route to Sersang La starts from Raoli and passes through Purthi, Sach and Gosti before reaching Dharwas. Nonetheless Sersang La is also accessible by foot from Tiyul via Poat La.

Kang La Pass

Lying at an altitude of 17,408 ft, Kang La is one of the remote places in the Zanskar region, and is only accessible by foot. The trekking expedition to Kang La starts from the Miyar Valley in Lahaul, a paradise of wildflowers and goes through Kang La to reach the Zanskar Valley in Ladakh. Crossing streams and meadows, trekkers will encounter numerous vibrant green lakes formed by huge icebergs encircled by high peaks, snowfields, rocky terrains, and beautiful meadows on this challenging trek on the mountain pass of Kang La, lying between Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh. Some of the major attractions on this trek that you will see are Bardan and Mune Monastery. The other route commences from Urgus, which is drivable from Manali. From Urgus the trek ascends to Khanjar followed by Gumba Nala and Phalpu.

Tar La Pass

Often acts as a col between Lamayuru and Alchi, Tar La at an elevation of 5,250 meters is yet another precipitous mountain pass in the union territory of Ladakh that captures the attention of several trekkers from different corners of the world. The trek through Tar La commences from Lamayuru and heads to Wanla followed by Urshi. The trail from Tar La descends gradually to Tar village from the expedition Mang Gyu and leads off at Alchi via Gera.

Shapodok La Pass

Another least explored trekkable mountain pass in Ladakh is the Shapodok La at an elevation of 18635 ft. The trek to Shapodok La stretches over days and is accessible from Stongde, which is motorable from Padum. The trek from Stongde heads to Stara Doksa and gradually climbs to Stongde La at 15,912 ft. Thereafter, the trail leads to Mola Sumdo followed by Niri and Niri Sumdo from where one can trail back to Padum following the same route, or continue to Yar La at 16,240 ft. if you want to explore a more thrilling expedition passing through some remote places like Lartsa, La Barpa, Tantse Sumdo, Dat, Dango and Oldong, following along the River Khamak Chu. From Yar La, the trail further leads to Zara wherefrom you can either drive to Leh or Manali.

Nygutse La Pass

The bridge between the villages of Wanla and Henaskut, Nygutse La at an elevation of 16,404 ft. is one of the major trekkable mountain passes in the union territory of Ladakh. The route to Nygutse La diverts from Kanji village and heads to Yokma La at 15,419 ft. From Nygutse La the trek can either lead off to Wanla, passing through Hanupata, Sumdo and Phanjila, one can choose to move to Honya via Sirsir La at 15,764 ft. followed by Photoksar, Bumitse La, Sengge La at 16,404 ft, Takti La at 15,124 ft. and Namtse La at 14,534 ft. From Honya the journey leads off at Padum after a drive via Stongde.

Stakspi La Pass

One of the breathtaking trekkable mountain passes in Ladakh that you will come across on the way to Alchi from Lamayuru is the Stakspi La at a height of 16,906 ft. The journey en route Stakspi La follows through the village of Sumdha Do and thereafter, Sumdha Chungun where one can pay a visit to one of the ancient gompas of the Indo-Tibetan living in the area. From Stakspi La the trek gradually follows a downhill trail to Alchi. As you trek along the Stakspi La, you will come across numerous dry and barren gorges, rivers, and the surrounding Himalayan Mountains that will add a beautiful touch to your trekking expedition.

Kyamayuri La Pass

Another least explored trekkable route in the Ladakh region that heads to Tso Moriri is through the mountain pass of Kyamayuri La, located at an elevation of 17,716 ft. The trek to Tso Moriri via Kyamayuri La begins from the remote village of Ryumtse and moves through Kyamar, which was once known as the ‘Salt Road’, due to it being the route for transporting salt in the earlier times. The trek will then include the green and brown, desert landscape of barren terrains that open up into a valley, which will then move to the saltwater lake of Tso Kar, moving further to the village of Nuruchan. As you move along you might come across nomadic settlements and then the beautiful Himalayan mountain pass of Kyayamuri La, after a steep climb in the barren land of Ladakh.

Yalung Nyau La Pass

The trek via Yalung Nyau La from Riyul follows the same track as that of the route via Kyamayuri La to Tso Moriri. Yalung Nyau La is a beautiful mountain pass located in the Indian Himalayas in Ladakh and is situated near Lake Tso Moriri. Yalung Nyau La Pass sits at a height of 17,847 ft. and falls on the way when you trek from Tso Kar to Tso Moriri. From a distance, Yalung Nyau La offers the first look of the captivating Tso Moriri Lake. Tso Moriri Lake shimmers a vibrant blue, from above, surrounded on all sides by soaring mountains blanketed in snow.

Morang La Pass

Morang La, lying at an altitude of 16,847 ft. should definitely be a part of an adventure tour if you are seeking to explore the picturesque Rupshu and Markha valley. Passing through entire trails of barren high landscape, mountain passes, beautiful gorges, green pastures and shepherd villages is bound to leave one enamored in the beauty of the mountain pass. During the journey, one can also have a chance to encounter several wild animals like Marmots, Bharal, Kiang, Snow Leopard and different varieties of birds.

Charang Ghati Pass

One of the important mountain passes in the Garhwal Himalayan region that falls on the Kinnaur Kailash Parikrama is the Charang Ghati, which is at an elevation of 17,198 ft. The trek through Charang Ghati from Kalpa to Chitkul involves a treacherous walk and occupies a picturesque horizon where one can capture some of the prominent peaks in the Kinnaur Kailash range including the Jorkanden Peak at 21,237 ft, Kinnaur Kailash Peak at 21,325 ft, Phawarang Peak at 20830 ft, and Saro Peak at 19,947 ft. Providing a spectrum of its bountiful surrounding, lush green meadows, streams, mountains and cattle farms the pleasing and colorful Sangla Valley remains another attraction on the trail.

Tarsalamu Pass

At an elevation of 17,611, Tarsalamu Pass in Himachal Pradesh is one of the remote mountain passes in the Indian Himalayan region. This beautiful mountain pass enraptures seasoned trekkers and acts as a bridge connecting Darcha in Lahaul Valley with the Miyar Valley. The trek via Tarsalamu Pass starts from Darcha, moving along the trail that leads to Jankar Sumdo. From Jankar Sumdo the trek climbs up to Tarsalamu Pass, the most difficult part of the route, and follows a steep descent to Khanjar. Followed by Karpat and Chamrat, the trek leads off at Udaipur, where one can drive either to Manali via Keylong or towards the Pangi Valley.

We can say that Debsa Pass at an altitude of 17,588 ft. is one of the least explored mountain passes in the entire Indian Himalayan region, situated between the districts of Kullu and Spiti and connects the valleys of Spiti and Pin-Parvati. The first expedition to reach the Debsa Pass was made in 1992, which did not produce a fruitful result, and so, after several such expeditions, it was in 1995 that a route to reach the Debsa Pass was discovered from Manikaran to Kaja, passing through the remote regions of Kach, Bara Dwari Thach and Parahio Valley.

Pin Parvati Pass

Himachal Pradesh’s Pin Parvati Pass at an elevation of 17,457 ft. is one of the popular high altitude mountain passes in the Himalaya region that often attracts seasoned trekkers during the peak trekking season. The Pin Parvati Pass acts as a bridge between the greenscape of Kullu Valley and the wilderness of Pin Valley, offering a stark contrast to the trekkers. The journey through Pin Parvati Pass starts from Manikaran and passes through Kheerganga, Thaakur Kuan and Mantalai following a descent to Mudh along the Pin River, further followed by Sangam and Gulina.

Sara Umga Pass

Connecting the Kullu Valley with Lahaul and Spiti Valley, Sara Umga Pass at an elevation of 15,400 ft. is yet another unexplored trekkable mountain pass located in Himachal Pradesh. From atop the Sara Umga pass, one can capture the mighty peaks of Deo Tibba at 19,688 ft. and Indrasan at 20,410 ft. The trail leads you from the verdant Parvati Valley to the barren and raw Spiti Valley, passing through high altitude pastures, grasslands, steep valleys, boulders, and rocks. It also allows you to cross over a deep-fissured glacier to the gigantic pass. Only seasoned trekkers seeking a challenge are recommended to take this excursion.

Sia La Pass

Close to the Siachen Glacier and connecting Pakistani-controlled Kondus Glacier, Sia La at 18,336 ft. on the Saltoro Ridge, is one of the most beautiful mountain passes in the Himalayan region. Sia La, along with the nearby passes of Bilafond La, Gyong La and area encircling, has witnessed numerous border conflicts since 1984. The Sia La Pass, which links the Siachen Glacier to the Pakistani-controlled Kondus Glacier and valley to the west, is located close to the China border and is part of the Eastern Karakoram Range.

Lipulekh Pass

One of the major mountain passes in the Kumaon Himalayan region, the Lipulekh Pass at an elevation of 16,780 ft. connects the Pithoragarh district in India with the old trading town of Taklakot (Purang) in Tibet. The popular Kailash Mansarovar Yatra passes through this pass and hence is one of the most important mountain passes during the peak season attracting a lot of Hindu pilgrims. The trek through Lipulekh Pass starts from Tawaghat and passes through several small villages like Pangu, Gala, Malpa, Gunji, Kalapani and Navidhang. The Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand is located along the Dharchula Valley in the Pithoragarh district of the Kumaon area, where it connects to both Tibet and Nepal’s Vyas Valley.

Auden Col Pass

Connecting the Rudugaira Valley and Bhilangana valley, the Auden’s Col at an elevation of 18,011 ft. is yet another high-altitude mountain pass in the Garhwal Himalayan region that is not easy to undertake a journey on. The trek through Auden’s Col is an ultimate adventure for seasoned trekkers that connects the two most notable Hindu pilgrimages of Gangotri and Kedarnath and fetches a lot of pilgrims. The pass bears the name of John Bicknell Auden, who crossed it in 1939 and made the initial discovery of it in 1935 while working for the Geological Survey of India.

Panpatia Col Pass

A bridge between Badrinath and Kedarnath, two notable Hindu pilgrimage sites on the Char Dham Yatra, Panpatia Col at an altitude of 17,257 ft. is a legendary gateway that fetches several pilgrims from different corners of the country. The major attractions on the route are the Panpatia glacier as well as its surrounding mountain peaks. The trek through Panpatia Col from Badrinath passes through several small villages and temples covered with rocky tracks and deadly moraines making the journey one of the toughest treks in the Garhwal Himalayan region. Trekking through the pass requires one to be physically and mentally fit, and is meant to be undertaken by experienced trekkers due to the rough and dangerous terrain that Panpatia Col offers.

Kankul Pass

One of the least explored mountain passes in the Garhwal Himalayan region, Kankul Pass at an altitude of 17,158 ft. is the gateway to the Kagbhusandi Tal in Uttarakhand. The journey commences from Joshimath and leads to the village of Bhyunder where the trail further follows to Dang Kharak Glacier Camp after crossing Semartoli Bugyal. Thereafter, a steep climb leads to Kankul Pass which later descends to Vishnu Prayag via the Barmai Pass at 14,806 ft. The trek is an amazing experience as it travels through a variety of landscapes, including glittering glaciers, rushing streams, and a rich, colorful forest of pine and maple.

Lamkhaga Pass

The Lamkhaga Pass at an elevation of 17,329 ft. is a bridge connecting the Garhwal region with Himachal Pradesh. The trek to the Lamkhaga Pass follows treacherous journeys involving steep climbs, sharp turns and walking over deadly moraines. The trek through Lamkhaga Pass starts from Harsil and follows through Kyarkoti and Sukha Tal before approaching the pass and often encounters several small streams, gorges and lush green valleys. From Lamkhaga Pass the trail heads to Shimla via Dumti, Ranikanda, Chitkul and Sangla. Since the Lamkhaga Pass Trek is so near to the border, it is perhaps one of the hardest treks in the Himalayas and also one of the least popular ones to be undertaken.

Dongkha La Pass

Dongkha La or Donkia Pass standing at an elevation of 17,998 ft. is one of the major mountain passes in the Himalayan region of Sikkim that connects Sikkim in India with Tibet. From atop the mountain pass one can capture the picturesque Tibetan plateau and further trek up to the beautiful lakes of Tso Lhamo and the Gurudongmar. Located within the Himalayan Mountain Range, it provides a view over the Tibetan Plateau. One of the hardest mountain passes to trek across, the excursion to Dongkha La is worthwhile due to the lovely surroundings and amazing vistas. Travel there requires an inner line authorization because of its close proximity to the Indo-Tibetan border.

A scenic mountain pass located on the Pir Panjal Range, the Kugti Pass in Himachal Pradesh at an altitude of 16,568 ft. is the bridge connecting the Bharmour region in Chamba district with Keylong in Lahaul valley. Filled with wilderness and adventure, the trek through Kugti Pass is no doubt a lifetime experience for every trekker. The Kugti Pass Trek offers a unique and remote journey that goes through miles of verdant meadows, pine forests, and acres of apple orchards on the lower routes. On its higher routes, the trail winds past icefalls, glaciers, and snowfields.

The Himalayan region of the country comprises numerous states which offer some of the highest passes in the entire world! These beautiful mountain passes can be either traversed through by foot or vehicles. Surrounded by the scenic ranges of Himalayas, these mountain passes are some of the most preferred places to explore among the youth, who take up expeditions through these passes via mountain biking, or trekking. Journeying through these passes also provide a chance to explore some of the remote places of the country and offer a glimpse into their lives and culture.

Other Interesting Blogs to Read

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Published: 20 Nov, 2023 | Last Updated:  24 Nov, 2023

About the author

Having an experience of more than 16 yrs in the Himalayas, Arun is the main driving force & mentor at the Peak Adventure Tours, a leading adventure travel agency in India offers trekking tours in Indian Himalayas including Nepal, Bhutan & Tibet. A long history with exceptional experiences he is the “Marathon Man” in the field of adventure. Today Arun looks after the Peak Adventure and shapes & designs the venture of the organization. He is contributing to this blog as a regular guest author.

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Mountains Are Calling… And We Must Listen

Home » Mountains Are Calling… And We Must Listen

Mountain person or not, mountains have the natural superpower to woo anyone and everyone. The royal ruins, the majestic appearances, the untold mysteries and the twisty turns, mountains treat us with what’s more than just enthralling experiences.

Let’s check out some mesmerizing mountain ranges and know more on what these amazing destinations have to offer.

Bhutan, the land that is boastful of its mighty mountains and breathtaking landscapes, is the first “carbon negative” country in the whole wide world. So your purpose to escape into the mountains away from the hustle and bustle of the city life is quite conveniently resolved in Bhutan.

The best places to visit in Bhutan include:

• Gangkhar Puensum is famously known as the highest unclimbed mountain of the world. Gaze this beauty soaring up beyond clouds as you trek your way from Thimpu towards Bamurpa.

Height: 7,570 m

Location: Bhutan-China Border

• Bhutan Black Mountains are the heart of the most sacred traditions of Bhutan. While they’ve been isolated for years now, you can still admire the elegant beauty of these mountain ranges and watch time pass in solace.

Height: 4,575 m

Location: Sub-range of the Himalayas

• Mount Jitchu Drake and Jolmolhari stand adjacent to each other. Make sure your Bhutan Tour Package includes a trek to both these on the same day since they are easily accessible. Also, pack your essentials accordingly for a hassle-free experience.

Height: 6,662 m (Mount Jitchu Drake) and 7,326 m (Jolmolhari)

Location: Border of Tibet and China

• Gipmochi Mountain treats you with both, snow clad peaks and lush greens, at the same time. Also known as The Great Queen – Geymo Chen by the locals, the enchanting beauty will steal your heart!

Height: 4,427 m

Location: Sikkim and Bhutan border (disputed)

Different mountains, one feeling – wow! Bhutan is adorned with spectacular views of Kula Kangri, Tongshanjiabu, Liang Kang Kangri and Masang Kang that make your time here memorable with family as well as friends.

The best time to visit Bhutan is from March to May.

God took his own sweet time to create a place like this and we call this place, Ladakh. You simply can’t over the vibe and the scenic views this magically lovely destination has to offer. The air here and its people will make you go speechless and leave you content with a soothing smile across your smile making it a must-see tourist destination.

The best places to visit in Ladakh include:

• The Zanskar Valley in Ladakh will teleport you to a whole new world. Sapphire skies and turquoise crystal clear waters with the wind as the only music to your ears make the Zanskar Valley a must-visit spot in Ladakh. And if the nature bestows you with favorable weather conditions, you can also go white river rafting in the divine tributaries of the Zanskar river.
• Kargil is the second largest town in Ladakh and occupies its place as the prime tourist attraction here. Various mountaineering and trekking opportunities makes it an ideal destination for all the adventure enthusiasts along with serene glimpses of the Indus river.
• Khardungla Pass will give your soul all the thrills and the chills. It is the gateway to the most unusual and less crowded valleys of Ladakh – Nubra and Shyok.
• Leh, a location for our all-time favorite Bollywood movie – 3 Idiots, will capture your heart at first sight. The elegant arrangement of mountain ranges, alpine lakes and the hospitality of its people will leave you awestruck! Also, if you’re a biker, this one’s your paradise.

Most Ladakh Tour Packages will also take you through some renowned monasteries namely Hemis Monastery, the Diskit Monastery, Stakna Monastery and many more along with the Magnetic Hill, the Gol Market, Hall of Fame, the Stok Palace and the absolute famous, Rohtang Pass.

The best time to visit Ladakh is from April to May.

Devoid of all the city chaos and the haste, there resides a paradise right in India. Kashmir, also known as the “Switzerland of India”, is blessed with picturesque tourist spots and the great Himalayas and Pir Panjal Ranges.

The best places to visit in Kashmir include:

• Srinagar offers its guests with a wide array of fun things to do like boating, trekking, skiing and also bird watching. Experience yet another beautiful side of nature sprinkled with the magic of mountains and the heart of this city, the Dal Lake.
• Pulwama will make your heart skip a beat with its pleasant weather, a homely ambience, fields of saffron and soul-pleasing cultures. Also known as the ‘Rice Bowl of Kashmir’, it is situated within 40 kms. of Srinagar. So if an escape is the need, you should definitely make a quick visit to this village.

Major tourist attractions include the Jama Masjid, Aru Valley, Doda, Patnitop, Kishtwar National Park and much more. Check out Kashmir Tour Packages to know more about what Kashmir has to offer.

The best time to visit Kashmir is from March to August.

Himachal Pradesh

The beauty of Himachal, the land of snow, is beyond imagination and will surpass all your contemplation. It’s amazing how this destination will have something new to offer each time you visit.

The best places to visit in Himachal include:

• Shimla, Kullu and Manali attract major tourists here. Embrace the grace of snow-capped mountains, diversity and the purity of its people as these spots offer their guests with a wide range of experiences.
• Chamba is an ideal destination for all the nature-lovers. Embellished with age-old forts, temples the gorgeous River Ravi, Chamba is definitely the kind of getaway you need.
• Dharamshala and Dalhousie treat one with the warmth of nature, the comfort of belongingness and the lively spirit of their respective cultures. Monasteries and dense forests along with favorable climatic conditions make people fall in love with them over and over again.

Check out Himachal Pradesh Tour Packages to know more!

The best time to visit Himachal is from February to June.

Uttarakhand

Enliven your religious beliefs or treat yourself with the sanctity of nature in the divine and the absolutely amazing, Uttarakhand.

The best places to visit in Uttarakhand include:

• Dehradun and Mussoorie rest in the lap of the breathtaking Himalayan Ranges. Unwind in the serenity of the air that encapsulates these lovely destinations with adorable people. With splendid architecture, ancient cultures and nature’s excellence, these cities surpass the idea of perfection.
• Rishikesh, Haridwar, Kedarnath and Badrinath reserve themselves as religious spots with surreal mythological stories and beliefs. People from across the globe pay visits to relive the ancient happenings and indulge in spirituality along the banks of river Ganga in what is famously known as the ‘Chardhaam Yatra’.

Uttarakhand Tour Packages will take you through some major spots namely Nainital, Almora, Kausani, Pithoragarh and many more.

The best time to visit Uttarakhand is from March to April and September to October

Nepal holds adventures, life-changing experiences, and cultural diversity along with a spiritual awakening that will make you fall in love with life all the more.

The best places to visit in Nepal include:

• Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, holds a lively atmosphere adorned with ancient caves, generous people and historic temples giving you reasons to explore and make the most out of your time here.
• Boudhanath Stupa is one among the largest stupas in the world which also makes it a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is an embodiment of spiritual awakening and every shape therein symbolizes the five elements of nature – earth, water, fire, ice and air.
• Mount Everest, the beast himself, makes people want to visit Nepal, explore its ruins and trek their way up to the base camp for a life-changing experience.

Nepal Tour Packages briefly discusses more about other tourist attractions in Nepal like Pokhara, Annapurna, Chitwan National Park, Lumbini and much more!

The best time to visit Nepal is from March to May.

North East India

North East India encompasses the natural gems of India namely Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Mizoram, Sikkim, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland and Tripura. Monasteries, rainforests, waterfalls, lakes, mountain ranges and wildlife, together, will give you the time of your lives.

The best time to visit North East India is from October to Mid-May.

Check out North East Tour Packages to know more!

There’s this and so much more that we can’t help but not miss when it comes to mountains. Disconnect from the outer world and cherish rusticity at its best or feed the adrenaline junkie in you. Soak in the mesmerizing excellence of nature or trek up and around the grandeur of mountains picking up experiences of a kind with our India Tour Packages and India Honeymoon Packages .

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5 Places to Visit in India for picture perfect Mountains vacations

Nothing comes close to the kind of breathtaking view you experience when you are on top of a mountain. All you mountain lovers will agree with us on this! There are a lot of mountain places in India that are just perfect and give you your Insta-worthy clicks. Be it capturing the picturesque mountain views or one with you in it, India has some of the best mountain places that are worth visiting. You might have to trek or hike for a while till you get there, but when you do, it’s totally worth it.

From Kerala to Uttarakhand, the list of mountain places in India is endless. A lot of mountain ranges in the country don’t really require you to trek all the way up. You can also use local transport like auto, car or a cable car to reach the top. Check out some of these mountain places in India that make for a picture perfect vacation.

Munnar, Kerala

Munnar is famous for its tea plantation and is also one of the most popularly visited hill stations in the country. Adventure activities, waterfalls, wildlife sanctuaries, there are a lot of reasons why you must visit Munnar at least once in your life. It is undoubtedly one of the most picturesque mountain places in India. Be it with your friends, family, partner or a solo trip, Munnar has something beautiful in store for all of its tourists. Kerala is called God's Own Country for a reason, and Munnar is one of them. You can go rock climbing, explore the tea plantation estates, watch and learn kalaripayattu, pamper yourself with a rejuvenating massage, go camping, the list of things to do in Munnar keeps going on.

Coorg, Karnataka

If you are looking for mountain places to head to for a fun trip, you cannot ignore Coorg. Even though it was known for being the ideal honeymoon destination, it has now created a reputation for attracting all kinds of travellers. It has fancy resorts, hostels, comfy homestays and more options for tourists. Coorg has a very pleasant feel to it, and you will instantly feel at peace when you reach the hill station. You can just sit by your hotel room window at a cafe and read a book while sipping coffee. Since Coorg is known for its tea and coffee plantations, you can also try the special brews here.

Auli, Uttarakhand

Located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, Auli is a hill station and has a popular Himalayan ski resort. It is surrounded by Nar Parvat and Nanda Devi mountains, the latter being the second highest peak in the country. Auli is one of the most famous mountain places in India and probably one of the only few places that offers skiing. If you head over to Auli during the winter, you can give skiing and snowboarding a try. Apart from that you can go for a cable car ride from Nar Parvat or Nanda Devi mountains. While in Auli, live your Bollywood fantasies by taking short videos, enacting some of the popular songs that were shot in snowy regions. It goes without saying that Auli is the perfect background for your vacation posts on social media!

Kanchenjunga Mountains, Sikkim

A trip to Sikkim alone will satiate the traveller in you. If you are a mountain lover, you will definitely love trekking to Mount Kanchenjunga. It is the third highest peak in the world, about 8586 meters and has quite a few trekking routes and difficulty levels. It is also home to animals like the musk deer snow leopard, red panda, the endangered Himalayan tahr and the Himalayan blue sheep. You'll also come across dense forests on your trek. The view from every part of this mountain is breathtaking and simply perfect for lots of pictures. Mobile networks might be sketchy throughout the region, making it a great place for a digital detox!

Coonoor, Tamil Nadu

The second biggest hill station in the Nilgiri hills, popular for its variety of birds and wildflowers, Coonoor is a mountain place that you must visit. It's surrounded by lush green mountains and tea plantations. It's the perfect destination for a pleasant trek or hike. Plan your trip at the right time of the year, and you will certainly be able to make the most of it. All of the tourist attractions at the hill station will offer you a magnificent background since it is surrounded by mountains. It is also an ideal location for camping.

India offers a great many mountain ranges to choose from. We hope this list helped you plan your next mountain vacation.

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India's varied landscapes and cultures presented several romantic destinations: Udaipur's lakes, Puducherry's beaches, Goa's vibrant nightlife, Shimla's hill station charm, and Jaipur's regal heritage. These cities offered unique … Read more

India's varied landscapes and cultures presented several romantic destinations: Udaipur's lakes, Puducherry's beaches, Goa's vibrant nightlife, Shimla's hill station charm, and Jaipur's regal heritage. These cities offered unique experiences for couples seeking both serene and culturally rich getaways, appealing to diverse preferences. Read less

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India's varied landscapes and cultures presented several romantic destinations: Udaipur's lakes, Puducherry's beaches, Goa's vibrant nightlife, Shimla's hill station charm, and Jaipur's regal heritage...

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• Union Budget 2024: What it means for the Indian tourism landscape?

Budget aims to support India’s growing tourism sector focus on targeted interventions to achieve India’s vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat 2047'

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The Union Budget for FY 2024-25 has been unveiled, presenting various promises for the tourism industry. While the budget aims to support India’s growing tourism sector, the focus on targeted interventions may be augmented to achieve India’s vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’.

Tourism in India contributes 6.5 per cent to GDP (INR1,936,291 crores) and supports 4.3 crore jobs. 1 In 2023, domestic tourist visits (DTVs) reached 2,510 crores, 2  and foreign tourist arrivals (FTAs) recorded 9.2 crores. 3 Furthermore, projections for 2024-25 are optimistic with total tourism contribution to the GDP forecasted to reach 7.6 per cent by 2034, creating approximately 6.3 crores jobs. 4 Propelled by an expanding middle class and a 9 per cent annual growth 5  in travel spending, India's domestic market is poised to surpass Japan and Mexico, reaching the fourth spot globally by 2030. Budgetary allocations thus can further this growth, supporting new projects and initiatives to attract more tourists.

Previously, the Interim Budget allocated INR2,479.62 crores to tourism, a 46.54 per cent increase from the previous year's revised budget of INR1,692 crores. 6  The central sector schemes’ allocation increased to INR2,080.03 crores from INR1,939.22 crores, 7  reflecting the commitment to enhance tourism infrastructure. Other provisions include developing tourism circuits, eco-tourism, adventure tourism; developing less-explored destinations; and improving connectivity by increasing investments in road, rail, and air connectivity. The Union Budget further proposes substantial support for the development of historical and religious sites, including Vishnupad and Mahabodhi Temple corridors, modeled after Kashi Vishwanath corridor. Development for Rajgir, which hold spiritual significance for Buddhists, Hindus and Jains, was also proposed for attracting pilgrims. Since Buddhist tourists arriving to India comprised a mere 0.005 per cent of all Buddhist adherents, 8  this shall further boost religious tourism in the country. Lastly, development of Nalanda as a tourist center and revival of Nalanda University are also included, alongside support for Odisha’s tourism sector. These initiatives are expected to create jobs, stimulate investments, and unlock economic opportunities across various sectors, reflecting a holistic strategy to strengthen India's tourism industry.

While these announcements are a welcome step towards developing quality tourism infrastructure, it still holds immense potential that can be further capitalized. Noteworthy is that though the domestic allocation for tourism promotion increased to INR176.97 crores from INR95 crores to boost spiritual and domestic tourism, the budget for overseas promotion has been reduced to INR33.02 crores, a 67 per cent decrease from the previous INR100 crores. Strategic allocation in overseas marketing, promotion, and key messaging campaigns are imperative for improving India’s global tourism rankings and attracting international visitors. Tourism has a huge multiplier impact on a nation’s economy as one direct job in tourism is expected to create seven indirect jobs. 9  The sector is predicted to employ around 4.5 crore 10 workers in India by 2024. While the government affiliated travel and tourism institutes receive steady allocations, undertaking a focused approach towards training and upskilling workers specifically in tourism and hospitality is needed. The union budget tackles broader job creation and skill development which can be further enhanced by undertaking targeted initiatives for these critical sectors. A concerted effort in this area will also be needed from private sector to cater to the ever-growing tourism demands.

The tourism sector has also witnessed other changes, as shown by recent funding patterns. India’s Sustainable Tourism Market is poised to grow at a rate of 19.3 per cent, reaching INR 1,268.3 crore by 2032; 11 presenting the requirement for cohesive planning to address sustainability within the sector. The increased focus on large-scale projects highlights the opportunity to harness significant economic benefits and improve infrastructure. The union budget has made provisions for these concerted efforts, which can further benefit from being components of a long-term vision.

Ahead, it is important that the government recognises the tourism sector as a major driver of India’s growth. Enhancing the tourism promotion budget is essential to make India globally competitive. Implementing a GST refund system for foreign tourists can benefit retail and local economy by selling more handicrafts and textiles. In the hotel and hospitality sector, hotels and convention centers can be included in harmonized list of infrastructure. Revising funding criteria and establishing a central Viability Gap Funding (VGF) pool to attract PPP investment, as successfully implemented in Malaysia, is recommended. In addition, implementing a flat GST rate of 12 per cent for all hotel rooms will simplify tax calculations, enhance transparency, and promote fairness. Further, developing a state-level tourism friendliness index like the Travel & Tourism Development Index will improve regional competitiveness. Addressing skill gaps through the PPP-model for industry mentoring, syllabus alignment, and setting-up training centres, especially in Tier 1 and 2 cities, will ensure a robust workforce. Lastly, emulating Japan's fusion of technology and cultural heritage can significantly enhance tourist experiences in India through smart tourism initiatives.

The Union Budget 2024 is futuristic in its vision for the sector. However, short term initiatives to boost the sector are needed given its increasing spotlight in recent years. A notable area is the need for a comprehensive strategy to integrate various facets of the tourism industry. The government may take these points into consideration to ensure that tourism, a critical economic driver, receives the attention and resources it deserves.

A version of this article was published by The Economic Times Travel World.com on Aug 7, 2024. The same can be read here

[1] 2024 Annual Research: Key Highlights (India), World Travel and Tourism Council, 2024 [2] State/UT Tourism Departments [3] Bureau of Immigration (BOI) [4] 2024 Annual Research: Key Highlights (India), World Travel and Tourism Council, 2024 [5] India’s Gen-Zs to drive domestic travel market- set to become the 4th-largest globally, Ministry of External Affairs, June 2024 [6] India Budget, Ministry of Tourism, July 2024 [7] Notes on Demands for Grants, 2024-2025, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India [8] Promoting Spiritual Tourism in the Land of Buddha, Niti Aayog, 2023   [9]  Amitabh Kant, 6th HAI Hoteliers’ Conclave 2024, February 2024 [10] 2024 Annual Research: Key Highlights (India), World Travel and Tourism Council, 2024 [11] Sustainability in tourism: Reimagining India’s sustainable tourism evolution, KPMG, March 2024

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Aalap Bansal

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India’s Surging Role in Global Tourism: Key Insights from Earnings Calls

Peden Doma Bhutia , Skift

August 12th, 2024 at 4:25 AM EDT

The travel industry is making a global shift to capture India’s booming outbound tourism. From hotels and airlines to credit cards and digital platforms, everyone’s racing to cater to this surging wave of Indian travelers. As the market soars, the India opportunity is simply too big to ignore.

Peden Doma Bhutia

India’s tourism industry is undergoing a significant transformation. The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) projects the outbound travel market to reach $55.4 billion by 2034 . At the core of this boom is India’s expanding middle class, driving both domestic and international travel as disposable incomes rise.

Indian tour and travel operators are also expected to see a 15-17% revenue increase in fiscal 2025, according to credit ratings agency CRISIL , which attributes this growth to improved infrastructure, rising incomes, evolving travel behaviors, and government efforts to boost domestic tourism.

India’s growing prominence on the global travel stage is further evident, with 2024 projections already at $18.8 billion. The surge of first-time tourists, as highlighted by McKinsey & Company , is a key factor. In 2023, 28.2 million Indians traveled abroad, surpassing pre-pandemic levels, while overseas spending hit $31.7 billion, with 54% dedicated to travel.

Global travel and hospitality leaders also recognize the potential of this burgeoning market. Skift analyzed recent earnings calls from these industries to gauge their outlook on India’s evolving role in global tourism.

India’s Push to Middle East Tourism

Accor: Sebastien Bazin, CEO of Accor, in the latest earnings call, highlighted the robust demand within India, noting the potential for Indian outbound travelers to double in the near future. “When it comes to the outbound of India, you have 40 million Indian people traveling abroad and 80% of them go Southeast Asia or they go to the Middle East. That 40 million could end up being 80 million in 1 year or 2 years from today,” he said at the latest earnings call.

This surge, he suggests, will have a profound impact on hotel markets in Southeast Asia and the Middle East, where a significant portion of Indian travelers head. “There’s no slowdown in demand in many of the airlines in the world and certainly not in India,” Bazin added.

Wynn Resorts: Talking about the Wynn Resorts coming up in UAE’s Ras Al Khaimah, CEO Craig Scott Billings said at the recent earnings call that while Europe is an important market for the UAE in general, India is also a huge market for this part of the world. “There’s a lot of folks there. There’s a lot of wealth in India, and that’s going to be an important market.”

Wizz Air: The aviation sector is similarly bullish on India’s potential. In its latest earnings call József Váradi CEO, Wizz Air, remarked on the “sparkling demand” from India, which is driving the need for more aircraft and infrastructure.

There Is no Slowdown in Demand

Hilton: Pointing out to the demand in Asia Pacific at the latest earnings call, Hilton CEO Chris Nassetta said the hotel company hasn’t seen any real signs of demand weakening in India.

Airbnb: Meanwhile, Brian Chesky, in Airbnb’s latest earnings call, positioned India as a crucial market alongside other major Asian economies.

Highlighting India’s rapid growth, noting a nearly 30% increase in nights booked in 2023 compared to the previous year, Dave Stephenson, Airbnb’s chief business officer, recently spoke about India as a burgeoning travel market with vast growth opportunities, positioning it among Airbnb’s top strategic priorities.

IHG: In its latest earnings call, IHG CEO Elie Wajih Maalouf reported nine hotel signings in India this quarter, highlighting the country’s strategic importance to the company’s growth. IHG recently signed a voco in Srinagar, IHG’s first hotel in Kashmir, slated to open in October 2026. This move aligns with IHG’s broader plan to expand in key leisure destinations across India, capitalizing on the country’s booming tourism sector.

Sudeep Jain, managing director for South West Asia at IHG, recently emphasized the rising trend of domestic travel to leisure destinations, noting that the signings reinforce IHG’s commitment to expanding its footprint in these high-potential markets.

The Push to Aviation

Airports in India are rapidly expanding to accommodate this growth, with Delhi’s airport now boasting a capacity of 100 million passengers.

Airports de Paris: In its latest earnings call, Augustin de Romanet, chairman and CEO of Airports de Paris (ADP), talked about the strategic significance of India’s airport infrastructure, forecasting that the country’s major airports are poised to emerge as key hubs in Asia.

He emphasized India’s position as a major aviation market, with an 8% compound annual growth rate in sales over the past decade, a trend he expects to continue given the substantial aircraft orders from airlines like IndiGo, Air India, and Akasa Air.

ADP’s investment in India, including a 49% stake in GMR Airports, aligns with this outlook.

Romanet pointed to the rapid growth of India’s population, particularly its middle class, as a catalyst for a sharp increase in air travel , contingent on the development of appropriate infrastructure. He also highlighted the vast potential in India’s market, especially with anticipated privatization of regional airports, which could offer strategic expansion opportunities for ADP.

However, he noted the company’s cautious approach, emphasizing the need to adapt their business model to capitalize on the right opportunities at the right time.

Visa: This trend is supported by government initiatives aimed at boosting tourism infrastructure and the increasing availability of travel-related financial products. Ryan McInerney, Visa CEO, pointed to the launch of India’s first co-branded credit card with rich airport-linked benefits with partners like Adani One and ICICI Bank, designed to cater to the evolving needs of Indian travelers. He said this would be for a target base of 400 million customers through the Adani One platform.

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Tags: accor , air india , airbnb , airports , asia monthly , earnings , hilton , ihg , india outbound , indigo airlines , middle class , middle east , visa , wynn resorts

Photo credit: India’s growing prominence on the global travel stage. Drobot Dean / Adobe Stock

Infrastructure | Deep Kalra: Shaping the next tourism powerhouse

A s India celebrates its 78th Independence Day, it's an opportune moment to reflect on the transformative potential of our tourism sector. Tourism is one of the largest employers in the services sector, and given its tertiary impact, the industry can be a game-changer for India. With its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and warm and hospitable people, India has all the makings of a global tourism powerhouse. The country has also significantly enhanced its stature as a global destination for business opportunities. This has helped the country claim an increasingly prominent place on the world travel and tourism map. Yet, India is currently only the 22nd most visited nation in the world. Our goal should be to climb into the top 10 within the next 20-25 years.

The domestic travel and tourism industry has evolved and witnessed multifold growth, fuelled by improvements in infrastructure, rising earnings of the Indian middle and upper middle classes, and an increasing desire to spend more on travel. While international tourism is touching pre-Covid levels, domestic leisure tourism has surpassed pre-pandemic numbers, reflecting the critical strength of our domestic tourism market. The industry has seen growth across all segments and price points, with travel becoming a key part of every household's budget plan.

The coming decade is particularly exciting due to the growing interest of Indian travellers in exploring the vast expanses of our own country. Nurturing this momentum will be critical. Further, catching the eye of the discerning, high-spending international tourist with a rooted presence in key source markets is essential for our future growth. But many of India's premier destinations are grappling with the challenges of overtourism. Integrating the concept of carrying capacity into our strategic planning is essential for a sustainable and prosperous future for the industry.

Infrastructure boost: Time and convenience of travel and choices of accommodation, activities and experiences at the destinations determine the propensity to travel. We can draw inspiration from the success stories across India, where direct flights, new train routes and destination-level rejuvenation have made travel and tourism more accessible. The government's focus on building roads, developing fast train services like Vande Bharat and expanding air connectivity with schemes like UDAN has already begun to reduce travel times, making intra-India travel more appealing.

While the popular destinations are now facing capacity strains, it is important for us to develop at least 200 model destinations on a war footing. Again, it is important to facilitate last-mile connectivity, ensure the availability of quality and standard accommodation, and build activities, exploration opportunities and experiences to hold the tourists for 2-3 days. This will not only unlock the cultural tapestry of our nation but also invigorate local economies and support sustainable tourism. Popular hotspots suffering from overtourism will also get an opportunity to recover, which is vital for long-term sustainability.

Homestays have also become an integral part of the tourism landscape, catering to the evolving preferences of travellers. The burgeoning homestay industry offers travellers the ethos of 'Atithi Devo Bhava' while showcasing the most beautiful interior parts of the country. The Indian government has recognised the potential of homestays in promoting tourism and supporting local communities. However, we need more uniform and conducive policies tailored to enable the homestay ecosystem to flourish.

Public-private synergy: Globally, tourism is hugely private, driven with government support and nimble policies. In India's federal structure, while the Union ministry of tourism provides the overarching structure, states have their own policies to drive tourism at the ground level. It is crucial for the public and private sectors to collaborate and align on what to promote and how to promote it. To facilitate ease of doing business and incentivise private equity, there needs to be a greater focus on creating uniform frameworks.

Striving for sustainability: Travel offers numerous benefits, but leaves behind one major negative: a carbon footprint. We cannot become a successful tourism destination until we, as travellers, adapt and learn to travel responsibly. Sustainable travel isn't a special kind of travel; it's an attitude. By remembering that the places we visit are someone's home and adjusting our practices to sustain these destinations for future travellers, we can help preserve our crumbling tourist spots for future generations. It is important that all tourism stakeholders must actively embrace and promote sustainability.

For instance, under the aegis of MakeMyTrip Foundation, our social development arm, we have been working towards building resilience in high tourist influx destinations. This includes implementing effective waste management solutions and promoting community-based tourism models. Furthermore, we have been working on environmental conservation with our afforestation initiatives, having planted and supported over 1.7 million saplings. By incorporating these practices, we aim to ensure that tourism remains a force for good, benefitting local communities and preserving the natural beauty of our destinations for future generations.

As we chart this path towards making India the next global tourism powerhouse, let's celebrate our heritage, harness our strengths and work together to create a future where India stands tall as a beacon of world-class tourism. Nature has bestowed us with an unparalleled bounty, and the onus is on us to ensure that we can sustainably leverage it to the fullest. If we get it all correct, I will not be surprised to see India among the most travelled countries worldwide in the next two decades.

The author is Founder & Chairman, MakeMyTrip

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