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