Escape the scorching heat with these 15 top destinations to explore in India during the long weekend of August 2024

Sunny, tropical beaches are often people’s first choice for a summer vacation, but alpine locations can also be very enticing. Mountain holidays provide a wealth of outdoor activities, breathtaking scenery, vibrant entertainment centers, and opulent lodging that are simultaneously exhilarating, calming, and unforgettable. Traveling to a mountain destination might be the best way to spend your vacation, whether you’re going alone, with a significant other, or with the whole family. 

List of 15 hill stations in India in 2024

1. Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Manali, tucked away in the magnificent Himalayas, is the ideal vacation spot for anyone who enjoy the outdoors and an exciting journey. Its unmatched natural beauty is found in its green valleys, wide meadows, fruit orchards, and snow-white waterfalls. In addition to having cozy cafes and retail establishments, this gorgeous hill station is dedicated to temples and historic forts. There are plenty of possibilities for a thrill at the hill station, so adventure lovers are in for a treat. 

Also Read:- 5 Best Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh

2. Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh

Situated at an elevation of 1457 meters above sea level in the Kangra Valley, Dharamshala is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Himachal Pradesh. The monasteries here offer a touch of spirituality, and the hill station is endowed with the abundance of nature. In addition, Dharamshala is most likely the greatest location in India to encounter and study Tibetan culture. Dharamshala is also home to HPCA Stadium, the tallest international cricket stadium in the world.

3. McLeod Ganj, Himachal Pradesh

McLeod Ganj, known for its natural beauty and tranquility, is the ideal place to escape the bustle of the city. The 14th Dalai Lama lives there, and it is well-known for being Little Lhasa. You’ll see a stunning fusion of British and Tibetan traditions here. If you want to meditate in a beautiful, lush green setting, McLeod Ganj’s quiet monasteries are the perfect choice. It is among India’s best hill stations for experiencing Tibetan culture. Here, the nightlife is also worth checking out.

4. Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh

Nestled in the breathtaking Himalayas, Dalhousie is a delightful getaway renowned for its snow-capped peaks, pine-covered valleys, breathtaking scenery, and bubbling waterfalls. The valley also has a strong colonial background because the British used to love coming here for their summer vacations. In actuality, stunning examples of Victorian architecture may still be found here. Twenty kilometers from Dalhousie is the charming little village of Khajjiar, which is also a must-see.

Also Read:- 10 Best Places to Visit in April in India in 2024

5. Shillong, Meghalaya

Shillong is a tranquil hill station with lovely weather and picturesque settings, making it the perfect place to escape the summer weather and unwind in the middle of nature. The town’s unique attractiveness is enhanced by its rolling hills, softly swinging pine trees, glistening lakes, breathtaking waterfalls, and quaint cafes, which draw visitors from all directions. The British dubbed this hill station the Scotland of the East because of its breathtaking beauty. If you are interested in learning more about the history and culture of the eight North-Eastern states, you really should visit the Don Bosco Museum. Shilong is regarded as one of the finest hill stations in India because of the pure air and well-kept surroundings.

6. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand

One of the most well-known and scenic hill stations in India, Mussoorie is 34 km from Dehradun and offers a nice climate along with an abundance of natural beauty. One of the most stunning destinations in India, the town is encircled by the Shivalik Ranges and Doon Valley. Known as the Royal Capital of the Hills, Mussoorie was once a favorite summer hideaway for the British and is currently regarded as the most affordable hill station in India. The charming hotels and churches in this area serve as a great reminder of Mussoorie’s colonial past.

7. Auli, Uttarakhand

Auli is one of the numerous stunning hill towns that dot the Uttarakhand area of Garhwal. Situated 2909 meters over sea level, Auli is one of India’s most well-liked skiing destinations. Numerous ski resorts and snow-covered slopes draw a large number of nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers to this hill station. There are a lot of significant historical and religious sites in Auli. Some of the most significant Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi, Mana Parvat, Dunagiri, and Kamet, can be seen captivatingly from the higher slopes here.

8. Nainital, Uttarakhand

Located in the Kumaon area of Uttarakhand, Nainital is a stunning hill resort that rises 2084 meters above sea level. This hill resort is one of the most visited locations in North India because of its nearness to Dehradun and Delhi. With its beautiful scenery, comfortable temperatures, and serene atmosphere, Nainital is the ideal destination for anyone wishing to spend time in nature and escape the intense heat of the plains. This charming tiny hill village offers a plethora of activities, such as boating on Naini Lake and offering your respects at Naina Devi Temple. There are numerous hiking paths and viewpoints in Nainital.

9. Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir

Srinagar, sometimes referred to as the City of Lakes, Paradise on Earth, and Venice of the East, is without a doubt India’s most breathtaking hill station. It is located at an elevation of roughly 1585 meters above sea level, in the center of the Kashmir valley. With its unparalleled natural beauty and tranquility, Srinagar is a visual and emotional feast. One of the greatest hill stations in the world, Srinagar, offers a plethora of activities, from taking a shikhara ride on Dal Lake and visiting Tulip Garden, to admiring the captivating vistas of snow-capped mountains, verdant valleys, and meadows. 

10. Leh-Ladakh, Jammu & Ladakh

Recognized for its striking scenery, winding streams, Buddhist temples, cozy cafes, and an abundance of adventurous pursuits, Leh-Ladakh is among India’s most remarkable and singular locations. At 3500 meters above sea level, it is one of India’s highest hill stations and is well-known for having the world’s highest motorable road. Furthermore, Ladakh is home to Pangong Tso Lake, the highest saltwater lake in the world. In addition to its stunning natural surroundings, the area is well-known for its delicious food, high-altitude trekking, lakefront camping, and rich cultural heritage. Keep your camera close at hand if you’re a shutterbug because there are plenty of options for landscape shooting here.

11. Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir

Gulmarg is a stunning town with a height of 2650 meters above sea level. It is well-known for its snow-capped mountains, flower-filled meadows, valleys covered with evergreens, and steep ravines. Many kinds of tourists are drawn to this enchanting location, but honeymooners seeking to spend meaningful time outdoors are the main draw. In addition to being a well-liked skiing location, adventure seekers also frequent Gulmarg. It is one of India’s most picturesque hill stations; if you want to increase your heart rate, try trekking, mountaineering, or snowboarding here.

12. Ooty, Tamil Nadu

Tucked up in the Nilgiri Hills, Ooty is a haven for city people, renowned for its lush natural beauty. The hill station is well-known for its peaceful lakes, vibrant botanical gardens, verdant tea gardens, and cozy cabins. The British loved Ooty as a summer resort, and some exquisite examples of colonial architecture can still be found there. The Nilgiri Mountain Railway is the steepest track in Asia and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ride it to get the greatest views of the valley and mountains. Ooty’s picturesque beauty and appeal among tourists have made it one of India’s top 10 hill stations.

13. Darjeeling, West Bengal

A honeymooner’s dream come true, Darjeeling is a highly sought-after gem in the Himalayan Range. Known for its breathtaking vistas of Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest mountain, Darjeeling is a popular summer destination and one of India’s most well-known hilly regions. It is encircled by verdant hills covered with tea plantations and features stunning botanical gardens, monasteries, parks, and overlooks.

14. Gangtok, Sikkim

Nothing compares to getting away from the hustle and bustle of the city for a few days and spending them in a clean, serene, and natural setting. That’s just what Gangtok provides! Gangtok, a quaint little hill town in Sikkim, is well-known for its tranquil environment, clean air, and breathtaking scenery. It is a great place for a relaxed holiday with lots of man-made and natural attractions, including lakes, waterfalls, and Buddhist monasteries. Tsomgo Lake and Nathula Pass rank among the area’s most well-liked attractions.

15. Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra

Mahabaleshwar, encircled by the western hills and including thick woods, strawberry farms, rivers, and waterfalls, is an ideal destination for a restorative holiday. At an elevation of 1353 meters, this hill station offers an abundance of fantastic hiking and climbing routes for those who are fit enough. There are a ton of incredible things to do in Mahabaleshwar, like boating on Venna Lake, taking natural photos, hiking to Pratapgarh Fort, and praying at old temples.