A country filled with culture, wisdom, spirituality, and blissful beauty, India is renowned for its lakes and oceans that stretch endlessly. Every place you visit is blessed with nature, from sun-loving deserts and lush plains to high peaks with their crisp mountain air. In addition to being ideal for adventurers and those looking for tranquil surroundings to slow down, the country leaves no excuses for returning visitors.
Especially the mountain tops, and remote areas that offer a laid-back experience and allow travellers to slow down and enjoy being present. The perfect time to experience slow living and a relatively uncomplicated lifestyle is on a mountain trip. In addition, mountain tours are an ideal way to get up close with nature and to feel rejuvenated and downright jolly.
From the serene glamour of the Western Ghats to the sheer magnitude of the Himalayas, mountains have a charge of their own. The mountains of India are as legendary as they are diverse. They’ll delight your senses and provide a perfect escape from daily life.
We have compiled a list of the Mountain Places and Best Hill stations in India to make your search easier.
Best Hill stations in India
1. Monastery of Tabo | Best Hill stations in India
In the Himalayas, India offers a wealth of breathtaking mountain destinations, each retaining its own unique charm. Among these, the Tabo Monastery stands as a testament to both the serene beauty of the mountains and the rich spiritual heritage of India. A Buddhist pilgrimage center, Tabo Monastery is fondly called the Ajanta of the Himalayas.
Nestled in the captivating Spiti Valley, constructed in 996 AD amidst the majestic Himalayan Mountains that resonate with every traveler like a melodic guitar, stands Tabo Monastery. This mountain destination in India draws visitors not only for its cultural and spiritual significance but also for its remarkable collection of archaeological paintings adorning its walls. With 9 temples and 23 chortens, each containing invaluable manuscripts, thongkas (Buddhist scroll paintings), and stucco, this monastery is a true treasure trove. Intricate frescoes and murals adorn the inner walls, while the caves surrounding the monastery serve as a sanctuary for monks and Lamas to embark on self-discovery journeys away from the material world.
When exploring Spiti Valley, Taba Monastery is a must-see tourist destination. The monastery is best visited between May and October. If you are lucky enough, you can enjoy the masked dances and traditional folk dances of the “Chakhar” festival held every three years during September and October.
2. Nilgiri Mountains – Ooty | Best Hill stations in India
Amidst all the popular mountain places in India, Ooty or Ootacamund takes the top spot as one of the best places to visit for mountain lovers. With sprawling mountains, great lakes, tea plantations, and eucalyptus trees growing in abundance, Ooty offers misty mornings, cool afternoons, and cosy evenings.
Nestled deep in the Nilgiri Mountains, this former British summer resort has always been a source of excitement and intrigue for visitors. It is an ideal destination for those seeking a quick escape from the hot climate and bustling city life. Ooty, one of the top mountain places to visit in India, is best explored from October to June. While pleasant weather can be enjoyed all year round, peak seasons offer a chance for rejuvenation and relaxation. This is also when the renowned Ooty flower show takes place every May, paying tribute to the beautiful flowers that bloom in various colors.
One of the three trains that run through the Nilgiri Mountains, the Nilgiri mountain train travels from Mettupalayam to Ooty and Coonoor, another tourist destination in Tamil Nadu.
3. Assam | Best Hill stations in India
The “Dreamland of the East” is a famous mountain destination popular for its fairytale-like charm. A picture of delight, Darjeeling is home to waterfalls, as well as captivating scenes surrounded by mountains. Known affectionately as the Queen of the Hills, Darjeeling is one of the best tourist destinations in India.
A go-to destination for train-loving tourists in the mountains, Darjeeling boasts picturesque panoramas of Kanchenjunga’s snowy peaks, mist-covered hills, and vibrant tea plantations bustling with butterflies and wild birds. Immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere as you envision Magnolias and orchids gently swaying in the mountain air while a century-old Darjeeling Himalayan toy train winds its way through the region, providing breathtaking views and a taste of the various cultures found within this diverse community from Siliguri to Darjeeling.
There are numerous attractions to discover in this charming town, including Ghoom Monastery, the Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Centre, Kalimpong Science Center, Neora Valley, Mahakal Mandir and more. Whether it’s admiring the gentle hues of the sunrise or taking a cable car ride to admire the mesmerizing hillside landscapes and waterfalls of Darjeeling, there is endless exploration and interpretation to be found in every corner of this town. As someone once said, “Darjeeling is not just a destination, but an emotion.”
A visit to Darjeeling is incomplete without taking in the sights from Tiger Hill. The rising sun illuminates the pristine natural beauty, the sublime clouds in the background, and the panoramic views of Mount Everest and Mount Kanchenjunga. The Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is also home to endangered species such as snow leopards, red pandas, and Himalayan Salamanders.
Known for its snow-capped slopes, Auli attracts hundreds if not thousands of tourists every winter.
The place turns into a lush tropical paradise during the summer, with lush foliage and flowers blooming in every nook and cranny. Residents enjoy swimming in the artificial lakes or spending time camping under the stars.
Auli is surrounded by acres of oak and coniferous woods and offers spectacular views of some of India’s highest mountain ranges. In addition to the Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks, Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara, Gorson Bugyal, and Pangerchulla Summit, Auli is a popular tourist destination.
4. Coorg, Karnataka | Best Hill stations in India
Nestled amidst the mist-covered hills of Karnataka, Coorg, also known as Kodagu, stands as a picturesque haven for nature enthusiasts and tranquility seekers. Renowned for its lush coffee plantations, this hill station captivates visitors with its verdant landscapes, cool climate, and rich cultural heritage.
Coorg’s charm lies in its emerald-green hills, where vast expanses of coffee and spice plantations carpet the terrain. The aroma of coffee blossoms permeates the air, creating a sensory delight for those exploring the region. The undulating hills and meandering rivers contribute to the breathtaking scenery, offering a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Apart from its natural beauty, Coorg boasts a unique cultural identity. The Kodavas, the indigenous people of the region, have preserved their traditions and rituals over generations. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture by attending traditional festivals, such as the vibrant Kodava Dance.
Adventure beckons in Coorg with opportunities for trekking through the Western Ghats, exploring wildlife sanctuaries, and enjoying river rafting in the gushing waters. Abbey Falls, Raja’s Seat, and Dubare Elephant Camp are among the must-visit attractions that showcase the region’s diverse offerings.
Whether sipping freshly brewed coffee in a plantation homestay or trekking to panoramic viewpoints, Coorg promises an unforgettable experience, blending nature’s beauty with cultural richness. It stands as a testament to Karnataka’s diverse landscapes, offering a retreat that rejuvenates both the body and the soul.
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