The best way to get relief from the scorching heat of summer is to spend some relaxing days in the lap of the mountains. In India, where every season has a different color, its hill stations full of lush green valleys and cool breezes are no less than a paradise for summer travelers.
If you are looking for a place in the summer of 2025, where there is no crowd and no heat of the sun – then this blog is for you. Here we are going to tell you about the 10 Best Hill Stations of India, which are not only great in terms of weather, but are also known for their natural beauty, calm atmosphere and travel facilities.
Whether you are planning a family trip, looking for an adventure trek with friends, or want to go on a journey of self-discovery as a solo traveler – these hill stations will mesmerize you in every way.
So let’s make the summer of India in 2025 memorable – with these coolest hill destinations in India.
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Why Hill Stations are the Perfect Summer Escape?
As the summer reaches its peak, it becomes necessary to get away from the scorching streets of the cities, rising temperatures and the hectic life. In such a situation, hill stations provide the solace that not only cools the body but also relaxes the mind.
Hill stations located in the hilly areas of India – like Shimla, Manali, Munnar or Darjeeling – not only provide relief from the temperature, but also give an experience of greenery, fresh air and natural peace that is rare in cities. These places give you a chance to connect with yourself, meet nature and slow down the pace of life a bit.
These destinations are most popular in terms of summer travel in India because the climate here is cool and pleasant, which is suitable for everyone from children to the elderly. Also, activities like trekking, camping, paragliding can be enjoyed thoroughly for adventure lovers at these places.
The best hill stations in India offer a cool climate and scenic landscapes, perfect for a summer retreat. Check before go Indian Meteorological Department’s summer travel updates
Top 10 Best Hill Stations in India for Summer 2025
1.Mussoorie, Uttarakhand – The Queen of the Hills
🔹 Location:
Located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, Mussoorie is nestled in the Garhwal Himalayan ranges, approximately 35 km from Dehradun.
🔹 Why Visit:
Popularly known as the “Queen of the Hills,” Mussoorie is one of the best hill stations in India for a peaceful and refreshing summer escape. Its colonial charm, lush green hills, misty mornings, and panoramic views make it a favorite among nature lovers, families, honeymooners, and solo travelers alike. During the hot summer months, its cool climate and scenic beauty offer a perfect getaway from the scorching plains.
🔹 Top Attractions:
- Kempty Falls – Ideal for swimming, photography, and relaxing amidst nature
- Gun Hill – A ropeway ride to panoramic views of the Himalayas
- Lal Tibba – The highest point in Mussoorie offering scenic Himalayan views
- Company Garden – A family-friendly spot with flowers, boating & cafes
- Mall Road – A lively stretch for shopping, cafes, and local treats
- Landour – This is a hidden and less crowded place that exactly looks like heaven.
🔹 Best Time to Visit:
March to June is the best time to visit, making it perfect for a summer vacation in India.
🔹 How to Reach:
- By Air: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun) – approx. 60 km
- By Train: Dehradun Railway Station – around 36 km away
- By Road: Well-connected by road from Delhi, Chandigarh, and other major cities via buses and taxis
🔹 Ideal Duration:
2 to 3 days
🔹 Estimated Budget:
₹5,000 – ₹8,000 per person (budget stay + food + sightseeing)
🔹 Travel Tips:
- Visit Mall Road early in the day to avoid crowds
- Carry a light jacket even in summer – evenings get chilly
- Prefer weekdays over weekends to skip tourist rush
- Don’t miss trying local momos and hot chocolate from roadside stalls
🔹 Personal Insight:
If you want to experience complete peace, head to Lal Tibba early in the morning. The sunrise with snow-capped peaks in the background is a moment of pure magic.
2.Nainital, Uttarakhand – The Lake District of India
🔹 Location:
Situated in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, Nainital lies around 280 km from Delhi and sits beautifully around the eye-shaped Naini Lake.
🔹 Why Visit:
Nainital is one of the best hill stations in India for a peaceful retreat and picturesque lake views. Known for its pleasant climate, lush hills, and colonial-era charm, it’s a top pick for couples, families, and weekend travelers. The shimmering Naini Lake, surrounded by mountains, creates a tranquil setting perfect for boating, shopping, and sightseeing.
🔹 Top Attractions:
- Naini Lake – Go boating or just sit by the shore enjoying the views
- Naina Devi Temple – A sacred site by the lake with spiritual importance
- Snow View Point – Take the ropeway to witness snow-capped Himalayan peaks
- The Mall Road – A lively street full of cafes, shops, and lake views
- Tiffin Top & Nainital Zoo – Great for kids and nature lovers
🔹 Best Time to Visit:
March to June is the ideal time to visit for cool summer vibes and outdoor activities.
🔹 How to Reach:
- By Air: Nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport – around 70 km away
- By Train: Kathgodam Railway Station – approx. 35 km from Nainital
- By Road: Well-connected to Delhi, Haldwani, and nearby cities by regular buses and taxis
🔹 Ideal Duration:
2 to 3 days
🔹 Estimated Budget:
₹5,000 – ₹9,000 per person (includes hotel, food, and sightseeing)
🔹 Travel Tips:
- Try a boat ride in the early morning or sunset for magical views
- Stay near Mall Road for better access and convenience
- Carry light woolens even in summer – evenings can be breezy
- Avoid plastic bags – Nainital is an eco-sensitive zone
🔹 Personal Insight:
A quiet boat ride on Naini Lake just after sunrise is one of the most peaceful experiences you’ll ever have. It’s a perfect spot to slow down and reconnect with nature.
3.Darjeeling, West Bengal – The Tea Capital of India
🔹 Location:
Perched in the Lesser Himalayas, Darjeeling is located in the state of West Bengal, near the borders of Nepal and Sikkim. It’s approximately 70 km from Siliguri.
🔹 Why Visit:
Darjeeling is one of the best hill stations in India known for its world-famous tea estates, colonial charm, and breathtaking views of the snow-capped Kanchenjunga. With its cool weather, British-era architecture, and lush green landscapes, it’s a perfect summer escape for couples, solo travelers, and nature enthusiasts.
🔹 Top Attractions:
- Tiger Hill – Catch the golden sunrise over Kanchenjunga
- Darjeeling Himalayan Railway – A UNESCO World Heritage Toy Train ride
- Batasia Loop – Scenic viewpoint with a war memorial and gardens
- Peace Pagoda – A serene spot offering 360° views of the mountains
- Happy Valley Tea Estate – Explore tea gardens and enjoy fresh brews
🔹 Best Time to Visit:
April to June is the ideal time for pleasant weather and clear views of the Himalayas.
🔹 How to Reach:
- By Air: Nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport – around 70 km away
- By Train: You can reach Darjeeling by train from NJP (New Jalpaiguri) or book flights to Bagdogra Airport. (www.irctc.co.in)
- By Road: Well-connected via shared jeeps and private taxis from Siliguri, NJP, and Bagdogra
🔹 Ideal Duration:
3 to 4 days
🔹 Estimated Budget:
₹6,000 – ₹10,000 per person (including stay, food, sightseeing, and transport)
🔹 Travel Tips:
- Book the Toy Train in advance – it’s often sold out during summer
- Don’t miss trying traditional Tibetan momos and Darjeeling tea
- Pack layers – mornings and evenings can be chilly, even in summer
- Visit tea estates early in the day for a guided tour
🔹 Personal Insight:
The peaceful vibe of Batasia Loop, with Kanchenjunga in the background and the Toy Train whistling past, is a moment you’ll never forget — it feels like time slows down in Darjeeling.
4.Ooty, Tamil Nadu – The Queen of Hill Stations
🔹 Location:
Nestled in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu, Ooty (officially Udhagamandalam) is located about 90 km from Coimbatore and sits at an altitude of 2,240 meters above sea level.
🔹 Why Visit:
Ooty is one of the best hill stations in India for a cool and refreshing summer getaway. Known for its lush green valleys, eucalyptus forests, and colonial charm, Ooty draws honeymooners, families, and nature lovers from all over the country. Its peaceful atmosphere, scenic train ride, and botanical beauty make it a must-visit.
🔹 Top Attractions:
- Ooty Lake – Enjoy paddle boating amid lush surroundings
- Nilgiri Mountain Railway – A UNESCO World Heritage toy train ride
- Botanical Gardens – Home to rare flowers and exotic plants
- Doddabetta Peak – The highest point in the Nilgiris for panoramic views
- Tea Factory & Museum – Discover the art of tea-making and taste local brews
🔹 Best Time to Visit:
March to June is the perfect time to enjoy pleasant weather and blooming gardens.
🔹 How to Reach:
- By Air: Nearest airport is Coimbatore International Airport – approx. 90 km away
- By Train: Mettupalayam Railway Station – connected via the Nilgiri toy train
- By Road: Well-connected by buses and taxis from Coimbatore, Mysuru, and Bangalore
🔹 Ideal Duration:
2 to 3 days
🔹 Estimated Budget:
₹5,500 – ₹9,000 per person (including hotel, food, and sightseeing)
🔹 Travel Tips:
- Carry light woolens – Ooty’s weather stays cool even in summer
- Avoid weekends if you prefer less crowd
- Stay near Charring Cross or Botanical Garden for easy access
- Don’t forget to try homemade chocolates and eucalyptus oil
🔹 Personal Insight:
There’s something magical about the mist rolling through Ooty’s tea gardens early in the morning. With a hot cup of Nilgiri tea in hand, it’s a moment of pure peace that stays with you long after the trip ends.
5.Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh – The Queen of Satpura
🔹 Location:
Located in the heart of India, Pachmarhi is a serene hill station nestled in the Satpura range of Madhya Pradesh. It lies around 200 km from Bhopal and sits at an elevation of about 1,067 meters.
🔹 Why Visit:
Pachmarhi is one of the best hill stations in India for those seeking an offbeat, less-crowded escape. Known for its ancient caves, scenic waterfalls, and dense forests, this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and history buffs alike. The soothing weather and spiritual vibe add to its unique charm.
🔹 Top Attractions:
- Bee Falls – A refreshing waterfall perfect for a natural shower
- Pandav Caves – Mythical caves linked to the Mahabharata
- Dhoopgarh – Highest point in Madhya Pradesh offering stunning sunsets
- Jata Shankar Caves – A sacred cave temple with natural formations
- Handi Khoh – A deep ravine surrounded by lush greenery and cliffs
🔹 Best Time to Visit:
March to June is ideal for summer travelers looking to enjoy mild weather and forest treks.
🔹 How to Reach:
- By Air: Nearest airport is Raja Bhoj Airport, Bhopal – approx. 200 km
- By Train: Nearest railway station is Pipariya – just 50 km away
- By Road: Well-connected by buses and taxis from Bhopal, Pipariya, and Hoshangabad
🔹 Ideal Duration:
2 to 3 days
🔹 Estimated Budget:
₹4,500 – ₹8,000 per person (covering transport, hotel stay, food, and entry fees)
🔹 Travel Tips:
- Wear comfortable shoes for trekking and cave exploration
- Most sightseeing spots close by 5 PM – plan your day accordingly
- Forest entry requires permits – check with your hotel or tour guide
- Avoid traveling during monsoon if you’re not a fan of leeches and slippery trails
🔹 Personal Insight:
Watching the sun set from Dhoopgarh with a 360° view of the Satpura hills is a soul-stirring experience — a moment of stillness and raw natural beauty that leaves you awestruck.
6.Coorg, Karnataka – The Scotland of India
🔹 Location:
Situated in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, Coorg (also known as Kodagu) is located around 250 km from Bengaluru and sits at an elevation of approximately 1,150 meters above sea level.
🔹 Why Visit:
Coorg is widely known as one of the best hill stations in India, especially for coffee lovers and nature enthusiasts. The region is blessed with misty hills, lush plantations, and tranquil waterfalls. It’s a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and adventure. Whether you’re a solo traveler, honeymooner, or family vacationer, Coorg has something for everyone.
🔹 Top Attractions:
- Abbey Falls – A majestic waterfall surrounded by spice estates
- Raja’s Seat – A scenic garden viewpoint offering spectacular sunsets
- Namdroling Monastery (Golden Temple) – A peaceful Tibetan monastery
- Dubare Elephant Camp – Interact and bathe elephants in the river
- Coffee Plantations Tour – Learn about Coorg’s world-famous coffee
🔹 Best Time to Visit:
October to June is ideal, but summer (March to May) offers the best climate to escape the heat.
🔹 How to Reach:
- By Air: Nearest airport is Kannur International Airport – approx. 90 km away
- By Train: Nearest railway station is Mysuru Junction – about 110 km
- By Road: Well-connected by buses and taxis from Mysuru, Bengaluru, and Mangalore
🔹 Ideal Duration:
2 to 3 days
🔹 Estimated Budget:
₹6,000 – ₹10,000 per person (includes hotel stay, sightseeing, and food)
🔹 Travel Tips:
- Try local Kodava cuisine like Pandi Curry (pork dish)
- Wear trekking shoes if planning to hike around plantations or waterfalls
- Early mornings and evenings can be chilly even in summer – carry a light jacket
- Book homestays or coffee estate resorts for an immersive experience
🔹 Personal Insight:
The scent of fresh coffee in the morning, the sound of chirping birds, and the view of mist rolling over green hills — Coorg feels like a dream. It’s not just a destination; it’s an emotion that stays with you.
7.Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh – A Hidden Gem in the Eastern Himalayas
🔹 Location:
Tucked away in the Lower Subansiri district of Arunachal Pradesh, Ziro Valley lies at an altitude of around 1,500 meters above sea level. It is approximately 115 km from the state capital, Itanagar.
🔹 Why Visit:
Ziro Valley is one of the best hill stations in India for travelers seeking raw natural beauty and authentic cultural experiences. Surrounded by pine-covered hills and lush rice fields, this valley is home to the Apatani tribe — known for their unique customs and eco-friendly lifestyle. The peace and simplicity of Ziro offer a soul-soothing retreat from urban chaos.
🔹 Top Attractions:
- Tarin Fish Farm – Where paddy and fish are cultivated together
- Kile Pakho – A ridge with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and Ziro plateau
- Meghna Cave Temple – Ancient cave temple with spiritual significance
- Ziro Music Festival – A four-day outdoor music event amidst nature
- Pine Grove & Bamboo Forests – Ideal for peaceful nature walks and photography
🔹 Best Time to Visit:
March to October is ideal. While summer (April to June) offers pleasant weather, September brings the famous Ziro Music Festival.
🔹 How to Reach:
- By Air: Nearest airport is Lilabari (Assam) – approx. 100 km, connected via Guwahati
- By Train: Nearest station is Naharlagun – 100 km away
- By Road: Well-connected by shared taxis and buses from Itanagar, Naharlagun, and North Lakhimpur
🔹 Ideal Duration:
3 to 4 days
🔹 Estimated Budget:
₹7,000 – ₹12,000 per person (includes travel permits, stay, local transport, food)
🔹 Travel Tips:
- Inner Line Permit (ILP) is required for Indian tourists – can be applied online
- Carry warm clothes even in summer, especially for evenings
- Respect local customs – photography of locals should be done with permission
- Limited ATMs and network – carry cash and download offline maps
🔹 Personal Insight:
Waking up to the view of floating mist over golden rice fields and hearing tribal chants echo in the distance — Ziro felt like a sacred pause in time. It’s one of the most untouched, heartwarming places I’ve visited.
8.Shillong, Meghalaya – The Abode of Clouds
🔹 Location:
Nestled in the East Khasi Hills of Meghalaya, Shillong sits at an elevation of about 1,496 meters and is around 100 km from Guwahati, Assam.
🔹 Why Visit:
Often called the “Scotland of the East”, Shillong is one of the best hill stations in India, offering a blend of colonial charm, vibrant tribal culture, and scenic landscapes. From rolling green hills to cascading waterfalls and cool breezes, Shillong is a refreshing summer escape that caters to nature lovers, music enthusiasts, and culture seekers alike.
🔹 Top Attractions:
- Umiam Lake – A serene reservoir perfect for boating and lakeside picnics
- Elephant Falls – A stunning three-tiered waterfall amidst lush greenery
- Shillong Peak – Offers panoramic views of the city and distant Himalayas
- Don Bosco Museum – Showcasing Northeast India’s diverse tribal cultures
- Police Bazar – A bustling market for local food, crafts, and fashion
🔹 Best Time to Visit:
March to June is perfect for summer travel, while monsoon lovers can visit from July to September to witness lush greenery and misty weather.
🔹 How to Reach:
- By Air: Nearest airport is Shillong Airport (Umroi) – 30 km, limited flights. Guwahati Airport (120 km) offers more options
- By Train: Nearest station is Guwahati Railway Station – about 100 km
- By Road: Well-connected via taxis and buses from Guwahati
🔹 Ideal Duration:
2 to 3 days
🔹 Estimated Budget:
₹6,000 – ₹10,000 per person (including stay, food, and transport)
🔹 Travel Tips:
- Carry a raincoat or umbrella even in summer – the weather changes quickly
- Try local Khasi cuisine like Jadoh and Tungrymbai
- Shillong is walkable – explore on foot to discover hidden gems
- Book stays early during festivals and weekends
🔹 Personal Insight:
Shillong felt like a melody composed by nature – every street had music in the air, clouds rolling in quietly, and the scent of fresh rain on pine leaves. It’s not just scenic; it’s soulful.
9.Munnar, Kerala – A Green Paradise in God’s Own Country
🔹 Location:
Situated in the Idukki district of Kerala, Munnar is perched at an altitude of around 1,600 meters above sea level and lies approximately 110 km from Cochin (Kochi).
🔹 Why Visit:
With its endless stretches of tea plantations, mist-laden hills, and serene valleys, Munnar is one of the best hill stations in India for nature lovers, honeymooners, and photographers alike. It offers a tranquil atmosphere and cool climate that make it a perfect summer retreat in South India.
🔹 Top Attractions:
- Eravikulam National Park – Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and Neelakurinji flowers
- Mattupetty Dam – A scenic spot ideal for boating and picnics
- Tea Museum – Discover the history and heritage of Munnar’s iconic tea culture
- Echo Point – A beautiful lake-side location known for its natural echo phenomenon
- Top Station – Offers breathtaking views of the Western Ghats and bordering Tamil Nadu
🔹 Best Time to Visit:
September to May is ideal, with April–June being perfect for escaping the summer heat.
🔹 How to Reach:
- By Air: Nearest airport is Cochin International Airport – about 110 km
- By Train: Nearest railway station is Aluva – around 100 km
- By Road: Well-connected by scenic roadways from Kochi, Madurai, and Thekkady
🔹 Ideal Duration:
3 to 4 days
🔹 Estimated Budget:
₹8,000 – ₹14,000 per person (including mid-range stay, transport, and sightseeing)
🔹 Travel Tips:
- Wake up early to witness the morning mist and tea estates bathed in golden sunlight
- Visit tea factories for fresh samples and local varieties
- Munnar can get crowded on weekends – book accommodations in advance
- Carry light woollens even in summer; nights can be chilly
🔹 Personal Insight:
Wandering through Munnar’s emerald-green tea gardens with nothing but birdsong and breeze for company felt like walking through a dream. It’s a place where time slows down and nature takes center stage.
10.Mount Abu, Rajasthan – The Cool Crown of the Desert State
🔹 Location:
Mount Abu is the only hill station in the state of Rajasthan, located in the Aravalli Range at an elevation of about 1,220 meters above sea level, near the Gujarat border.
🔹 Why Visit:
A refreshing contrast to Rajasthan’s arid landscapes, Mount Abu is one of the best hill stations in India that offers cool weather, lush greenery, and rich cultural heritage. It’s a popular summer retreat for both locals and travelers seeking peace, spirituality, and scenic charm.
🔹 Top Attractions:
- Dilwara Temples – Renowned for their intricate marble carvings and Jain architecture
- Nakki Lake – A serene, boat-friendly lake surrounded by hills and local legends
- Guru Shikhar – The highest point in the Aravallis, perfect for sunrise and panoramic views
- Toad Rock – A uniquely shaped rock formation with stunning views of the lake
- Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary – A haven for rare flora and fauna, ideal for nature walks
🔹 Best Time to Visit:
March to June is ideal for escaping the summer heat. Winter months (November–February) are also popular due to pleasant weather.
🔹 How to Reach:
- By Air: Nearest airport is Maharana Pratap Airport (Udaipur) – about 176 km
- By Train: Nearest station is Abu Road Railway Station – around 28 km
- By Road: Well-connected via buses and taxis from Udaipur, Ahmedabad, and Jodhpur
🔹 Ideal Duration:
2 to 3 days
🔹 Estimated Budget:
₹6,000 – ₹11,000 per person (including mid-range accommodation and activities)
🔹 Travel Tips:
- Visit Dilwara Temples early morning to avoid crowds and experience calmness
- Sunset Point is a must-visit in the evening – reach early to get a good spot
- Try local Rajasthani thali and tribal souvenirs in the local markets
- Nights can be cool even in summer – carry light jackets
🔹 Personal Insight:
Mount Abu felt like Rajasthan’s well-kept secret – a peaceful haven where time slows, and ancient stories whisper through marble temples and quiet hills. It’s a soulful hill station tucked between golden deserts.
Final Thoughts: Discover Peace at the Best Hill Stations in India
In a world full of noise and chaos, sometimes all you need is a quiet hill, a cup of chai, and the whisper of mountain winds. The best hill stations in India aren’t just about escaping the heat — they’re about reconnecting with yourself. Whether it’s the misty mornings in Munnar, the British charm of Mussoorie, or the soulful silence of Zero Valley, each destination on this list has its own unique story to tell.
These are not just places — they’re emotions. A walk through pine forests, a sunset over silent valleys, or the first glimpse of snowfall — these little moments become lifelong memories. So, pack your bags, follow the winding roads, and let nature heal you in ways the city never could.
Also Read – 15 Heavenly Places in India
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