The summers are almost here, and the humidity will soon be intolerable in most of India. Fortunately, there are areas where the infamous Indian summers don’t cause as much difficulty. Considering where? Obviously, hill towns. You have a wide selection of hill stations to choose from if you’re staying in Delhi or the NCR.
Near Delhi, there are many hill communities that make excellent retreats from the summer heat or even the icy winter snow. These hill towns, which are within 500–600 km, are ideal for quick weekend getaways. Here is a selection of some of the most well-known hill stations nearby.
Hill Stations Within 350 KM
1. Kasauli
Kasauli is a tranquil hill village situated at an elevation of 6100 feet above sea level. This location is mentioned In the Ramayana, a famous Hindu tale. Visit Kasauli Brewery, the tallest brewery, and distillery in the world.
Activities in Kasauli Nature walks, shopping on Mall Road, camping, hiking the well-known Gilbert Trail, riding the toy train from Dharampur to Barog, a day trip to Barog’s Sunrise and Sunset Points, Monkey Point, Christ Church, Subathu Fort, Krishna Bhavan Mandir, and Gurkha Fort are among the places to see in Kasauli. Distance from Delhi is 289 km.
2. Dehradun
The capital of Uttarakhand, which is located 1400 feet above sea level, is a must-see while you’re in Devbhumi! It is one of the closest hill stations, and the area’s abundance of sights makes it a favorite among tourists. It is only 6 hours by road from Delhi (270 km)
Some of the attractions in Dehradun include-
- The Rajaji National Park,
- Tapovan,
- Santala Devi Temple,
- Central Braille Press,
- Forest Research Institute,
- Robber’s Cave,
- Malsi Deer Park,
- Tapkeshwar Temple,
- Indian Military Academy,
- The Mindrolling Monastery,
- Tapkeshwar Temple,
- Lachhiwala,
- Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology.
3. Landsdowne
The crowning jewel of Uttaranchal, Lansdowne, is among the exotic hill towns close to Delhi within 300 kilometers and is located at the height of 1700 meters above sea level.
Anyone seeking peace will find Lansdowne ideal because of its pristine surroundings, pleasant climate, and verdant hills. St. Mary Church, Bhulla Lake, War Memorial, Bhim Pakora, and Garhwali Mess are among the places to visit.
4. Mussoorie
The slopes of Mussoorie are peaceful despite the commotion and crowds. A dazzling display of natural beauty, Mussoorie captures the attention of visitors and enthralls them with a heartwarming experience.
It is surrounded by clouds and mighty peaks. There are incredible places to explore in Mussoorie, one of the best hill stations within 300 km of Delhi. The actual Distance from Delhi is 289 km.
5. Shimla
Shimla, the city of Himachal and the British summer capital, is one of the most well-liked weekend getaways from Delhi. It is located at an altitude of 2205 meters above sea level and draws both large numbers of newlywed couples and families on holiday.
It is admiringly referred to as the “Queen of Hills” because of its colonial charm, breathtaking views, exceptional temperature, tranquil atmosphere, and lush surroundings. For its blissful snowfall, Shimla also tops the list of the best places to travel in December. 344 kilometers separate from Delhi.
6. Chail
Chail is well known for its mist-covered surroundings, historical significance, green jungles, magnificent vistas, and pleasant climate. It also has the highest cricket field in the entire globe. It is about 44 kilometers away from Shimla and is known for its unmatched tranquillity.
Additionally, it used to serve as the Maharaja of Patiala’s vacation residence. A vacation in this charming hill village is wonderful. The vistas are breathtaking and enthralling. Don’t forget to buy at the neighborhood market as well. 337 km away from Delhi.
7. Nainital
Another well-liked destination is Nainital, one of the closest hill stations to Delhi. Nainital greets visitors from cities with beautiful lakes, grotto-like slopes covered in towering trees, and a clear sky.
A perfect vacation spot that attracts families is a must-see once in a lifetime. Visit Naini Lake, The Mall Road, Naini Peak, and Naukuchiatal, among other locations. Travel time is 6.5 hours by road from Delhi (307 km)
8. Bhimtal
Bhimtal, a tiny hill town a few kilometers from Nainital, is a haven for people looking for a laid-back location. This tiny residence, which is 1,370 meters above sea level, is the ideal location for birdwatchers and other environmental enthusiasts.
Bhimtal has so much to offer visitors, from the magnificent Bhimtal Lake and Aquarium on Bhimtal Island to Victoria Dam and Hidimba Parvat. Visit Bhimtal Island Aquarium, Hidimba Parvat, Bhimtal Lake, and the Bhimeshwar Mahadev Temple.
Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the closest airport, located 302 kilometers away. Using the Road, the distance of Bhimtal is around 7 hours from Delhi (293 Km).
9. Kufri
Kufri is a tranquil retreat for environment lovers and is just 13 km from Shimla. This is the place to be and one of the safest locations to travel close to Delhi if you want to avoid the crowds.
Even when it doesn’t snow in Shimla, the hill town claims a beautiful landscape, a tranquil atmosphere, and good snowfall. One of the most popular but poorly known hill stations for honeymoons near Delhi NCR is Kufri because it is known for a variety of adventure and snow sports activities in the winter.
At the height of 9000 feet above sea level, its beauty draws visitors from all over the nation. In reality, Kufri is among India’s top destinations for family vacations. It is an 8 hour’s drive from Delhi (356 km)
10. Almora
Almora is a picturesque hill town located on a 5 km long horseshoe-shaped ridge at the height of 1651 meters above sea level. The Chand dynasty ruled over this area when it was first built, but the British subsequently developed it.
Due to its reputation as the cultural center of the Kumaon area, this hill town is a delight for culture enthusiasts. VIPs like Swami Vivekananda and Mahatma Gandhi were also rumored to enjoy this location. From Delhi, it is 360 km.
Hill Stations a Little Further
1. Khajjiar
It is incredibly well-liked by people from all over the world, particularly families and newlyweds, and is frequently referred to as “Mini Switzerland.” A tiny lake in the middle of verdant meadows, encircled by luxuriant deodars—man!
When the pastures are lush and full in the summer, you can often see untamed mountain horses munching on them carelessly. Hill Station is 589 kilometers away from Delhi.
2. Manali
One of the traditional summer holiday spots from Delhi NCR is Manali, which is more than 6500 feet above sea level. It has a beautiful location with the Beas River running through the center and mountains all around. In the summer, visitors from all over India, including families, groups of friends, solitary travelers, and honeymooners, swarm this town. Hill Station is 556 kilometers away from Delhi.
3. Leh-Ladakh
Ladakh’s former Buddhist realm is extremely run-down. It is viewed as a place similar to paradise by anyone looking for a place to express their insatiable desire for adventure. Ladakh, also referred to as the “Land of Passes,” is an alluring area of the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir.
Ladakh is blessed with incredible topography, including hilly terrains, high-altitude peaks, and lush green meadows. It is situated between 2750 and 7672 meters above sea level.
It is home to unusual creatures like the Tibetan antelope, ibex, and yak. Ladakh is where you can directly engage with the peace and environment around you and truly feel as though time has stopped because it is still unspoiled by modernity. It is located at a distance of 970 km from Delhi.
4. Spiti Valley
Spiti, which is tucked away in a warm embrace of natural beauty, is a heavenly entrance for those wanting seclusion in the joy of nature. Ladakh, Tibet, Kinnaur, and the Kullu Valley make up Spiti’s northern boundaries.
Kinnaur forms the southern boundary of Spiti. These deserted mountains are a sight to witness 735 kilometers from Delhi, rising to a height of about 12,500 feet above sea level.
5. Srinagar
Srinagar, a piece of “Heaven on Earth,” is Kashmir’s glory. Families on holiday, honeymooning couples, and adventure seekers all adore the picturesque town nestled among snow-capped mountains.
Many well-known Bollywood films have been filmed here among the picturesque hills, green valleys, and other attractions. Explore the numerous attractions and varied encounters along the Jhelum River’s banks whenever it suits you.
One of the best places in India for a December vacation in Srinagar, which enjoys a winter with snowfall. 809 km separates Srinagar from Delhi.
6. Dharamshala
Dharamshala, the entrance to the Kangra Valley and situated at the height of 1475 meters above sea level, serves as one of His Holiness, the Dalai Lama’s administrative centers. Due to the Buddhist and Tibetan cultures, this spotless hill town—also known as Little Lhasa or Dhasa—has an excess of greenery and serenity.
It is one of the finest locations in Himachal Pradesh and is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and vacationers alike. Oak and conifer forests, snow-capped peaks, and lush mountains all have a lovely appearance.
Upper Dharamshala and Lower Dharamsala, a bustling business district, are separated from one another. 475 km separates Dharamshala from Delhi.
7. Kasol
Nowadays, almost all people between the ages of 18 and 30 travel to Kasol. It is a favorite among young people in general, college students, and solo tourists. It is located at a height of approximately 5180 feet above sea level.
Activities in Kasol: Forest relaxation, landscape viewing, natural hot sulfur springs bathing, hiking, and fishing. This hill station is 521 kilometers away from Delhi.
8. Kangra
The lovely Kangra village is situated along the banks of the River Banganga at the foothills of the Dhauladhar Ranges in the Kangra Valley. The location is well-known for its spiritual importance.
This village is recognized as being very old; Alexander the Great even mentions it in his writings about the first battles. Additionally, it has been endowed with a serene atmosphere and beautiful views.
The air has a certain spiritual feel to it that is calming to the mind and emotions. 452 kilometers separate from Delhi.
9. Dalhousie
Dalhousie, one of the wonderful hill towns close to Delhi, is a lovely summer getaway that is located at an elevation of 1970 meters above sea level. This hill community, which serves as the entrance to the pristine Chamba Valley, is home to snow-covered mountains, breathtaking scenery, a calming atmosphere, pleasant weather, and many other attractions.
This picturesque location is located on the western edge of the Dhauladhar mountain range and was named after Lord Dalhousie, the then Viceroy of India who established the town in 1854. 560 km separates Dalhousie from Delhi.
10. Jibhi
Jibhi, which is sometimes referred to as a captivating “hamlet,” is situated in the Tirthan Valley of Himachal Pradesh amidst lush green woods and a range of colorful mountains.
This location is worth viewing because of the thick pine forests, peaceful freshwater lakes, and spotless temples. After visiting this location, you won’t want to depart because you will be enchanted.
An added bonus that gives you the impression that you are living in the Victorian Era is the cozy cottages in which you can remain. So relax in nature with a cup of chai and take in the lovely chirpings of the birds. Distance from Delhi is 499 km.
Things to do In These Splendid Hill Stations
Since these hill stations near Delhi and their’ mall roads serve as their primary shopping destinations, one can tour them. One can engage in snow-based activities to spark their sense of adventure in addition to purchasing mementos and other items. Visit well-known tourist destinations, take in the breathtaking scenery, and last, but not least, take in the pleasant weather.
How to reach?
These mountain towns are accessible by bus, car, railway, or airplane. Since trains and airplanes can only take you so far, the bus or vehicle would be preferred. The only airport in the region is Jolly Grant Airport, post which the journey is accessible only by road in the form of a bus or an automobile, likewise, with railroads.
Conclusion
Overall, these hill towns are used as a location to relax and unwind after a busy schedule. The beautiful scenery makes it easier to appreciate how beautiful the world is and how little getaways can make a big impact. Also check out some Weekend Gateways for short trips from Delhi, when you are not ready to go too far away!