North India itself is diverse in terms of geography, climate, and culture. Because it has the Himalayas on its north-east, the Thar desert on its west, and Gangetic plains on its south. It has a temperate climate and thus winters are much colder (below 5°C) and summers are much hotter (above 5°C)
In this blog, we’ve curated the eleven best hill stations in North India for you to plan your vacation this year 2023. As the Himalayan belt majorly crosses the states of Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Uttarakhand, most of the North Indian hill stations house only here.
Eleven Most Popular Hill Stations in North India
Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir
An absolutely serene touring destination that mesmerizes you with its lakes, gardens, and cultural sites. This capital city of Jammu and Kashmir stands top of the list of best hill stations in North India.
Top things to do in Srinagar: Boating, Cultural tour, Shikara ride
Places to visit: Dal Lake, Char Chinar, Tulip Garden, Nishat & Shalimar Bagh
Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir
You can witness snow-clad mountains in winter and lush green-scapes in summer here. It has one of the world’s largest golf clubs and serves as a great destination if you’re an adventure seeker!
Top things to do in Gulmarg: Gondola ride, skiing
Places to visit: Indian Institute of Skiing, Golf Club, Alpather Lake
Manali, Himachal Pradesh
An epitome of culture, heritage, and biodiversity! This is popular both as a honeymoon destination and summer hill station in North India. Do not miss the splashing waterfalls, alluring meadows, and astonishing viewpoints.
Top things to do in Manali: Trekking, Strolling, Shopping
Places to visit: Mall Road, Pir Panjal Range, Rohtang Pass, Hidimba Temple, Jog Falls
More attractions in Manali >>>
Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
This place acts as a gateway to spectacular mountains, holy temples/ churches, enriched flora/ fauna, and snowy winters. Unfortunately, this is not one of the offbeat hill stations in North India and tourists flock to this place every season.
Top things to do in Shimla: Toy train ride, Trekking, Strolling
Places to visit: Mall Road, Jakhoo Temple, Kufri, Green Valley, Bird Park, The Ridge
Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
Located on the foothills of the Garhwal range of the Himalayas, you can expect perfect tranquility here. If you’re planning for a North India tour, then remember to add this destination.
Top things to do in Mussoorie: Paragliding, Wildlife safari, Horse riding, Rafting
Places to visit: Bazar Road, George Everest House, Mussoorie Lake, Bhatta & Mossy Falls, Lal Tibba, Gun Hill Point
Nainital, Uttarakhand
Popularly called the “City of Lakes,” this place is housed amidst the Kumaon hills of the Himalayas. Experience the emerald lakes, stellar peaks, and breathtaking viewpoints.
Top things to do in Nainital: Boating, Rope riding, Trekking, Mountaineering
Places to visit: Naini Lake, Naina Devi temple, Tiffin Top, Bhimtal, Jim Corbett National Park
Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh
One of the unique hill stations wherein you enjoy the monasteries more than mountains with snow-caps. This is definitely an offbeat hill station in North India.
Top things to do in Dharamshala: Walkthrough amid Cedar trees, Visit Buddhist Monasteries
Places to visit: Kangra Valley, Dhauladhar Ranges, St. John Church
Leh, Jammu & Kashmir
Amongst the best hill stations to visit in North India in summer, this is a perfect choice for young tourists and backpackers. It has crystal-clear lakes, cultural sites, and amazing landscapes.
Top things to do in Leh: Biking, Trekking, Cultural tour
Places to visit: Leh Palace, Pangong Lake, Magnetic Hill, Nubra Valley, Shanti Stupa
Almora, Uttarakhand
A place rich in British/ cultural heritage, wildlife, and cuisine. It is renowned for its unique handicrafts. Though it has picturesque mountains, people call it the “Town of Temples” as it has numerous Hindu temples.
Top things to do in Almora: Temple Visit, Shopping, Mountaineering
Places to visit: Jageshwar, Kesar Devi Temple, Zero Point, Nanda Devi Temple, Chitai Temple
Auli, Uttarakhand
This place is a heaven on earth with snow-covered hills, ancient hill resorts, and apple orchards. Visit this place in winter to experience enthralling skiing and ropeway. Indeed, a must visit hill station in North India.
Top things to do in Auli: Skiing, Viewpoint, Rope ride, Strolling
Places to visit: Trishul Peak, Joshimath, Chattrakund Lake
Explore more tourists places to visit in India in Winter >>>
Spiti, Himachal Pradesh
Apiti Valley separates India from Tibet and is famous for its rugged desert-like terrains. This place experiences the coldest climate in India as it lies above ~12,500 feet above sea level.
Top things to do in Spiti: Solitude walks, Cold desert mountain trekking, hiking, camping
Places to visit: Chandratal Lake, Pin Valley National Park, Kunzum Pass, Key Monastery
