+919871148514
info@memorableindia.com
When the Indian plains blaze under the scorching summer sun, the hills call out with promises of something chilly. Think misty mornings wrapped in woollen shawls, pine-scented air, winding mountain roads, and evenings spent sipping hot chai with a view. India, with its diverse landscapes, is home to some of the most charming hill stations in the world, each offering a perfect slice of peace, adventure, and Instagram-worthy beauty. From the snow-kissed Himalayas hamlets to the lush green Western Ghats, India’s hill stations are timeless summer retreats. Whether you are craving a romantic escape, a solo adventure, or a family vacation, there is a perfect hillside heaven waiting for you. We, Memorable India, bring this blog with the curated list of the 10 best hill stations in India to escape the heat and soak in nature’s calm this summer:
Let’s take you through the top places for summer holidays in India for a cool gateway you won’t forget:
Nestled in the Kullu Valley and fringed by snow-clad peaks, Manali is a gift to the world by the majestic Himalayas and a favourite tourist spot for nature enthusiasts and thrill seekers. This region offers you spectacular views of Pir Panjal and the Dhauladhar ranges. Dotted with verdant valleys, milky-white waterfalls, fruit orchards, and expansive meadows, it is the place to explore temples and ancient forts along with nature wonders. Apart from just a summer escape, the city is perfect for thrilling activities that will leave you speechless and bring an astonishing adrenaline rush.
The Beas River meanders through this town, offering opportunities for rafting, while Sollang Valley thrills visitors with paragliding, horse-riding, zorbing, and skiing. Meanwhile, the Parvati Valley, Kasol, Manikaran, Sissu, and Spiti Valley allow travellers to extend their stay and enjoy something extraordinary. The town received heavy snow during January & February, followed by December and March, so book your Manali trip accordingly.
Ideal Duration: 2-4 days
Best Time: October to June
How to Reach:
Best Places To Visit: Hidimba Devi Temple, Manali Sanctuary, Rohtang Pass, Old Manali, Manu Temple, Solang Valley, Bhuntar, etc.
Things to Do in Manali: Paragliding, Skiing, Trekking, Camping, Horse riding, Mountain biking, River rafting, Bath in the hot springs at Vashisht, and Trying local cuisines.
The former summer capital of British India, Shimla charms with colonial architecture, pine forests, and panoramic views of the majestic Himalayan range. Situated at a height of 2200m, it is one of the most popular hill stations for honeymooners and families to beat the heat in India. The city is well known for its Kalka-Shimla toy train route, a UNESCO-listed World Heritage site which gives you snow-covered peak spectacle views that you have never seen. Its pleasant weather attracts tourists, especially in summer, to enjoy its chill vibes and to enjoy snow from December to February.
You can explore the scenic trekking trains and forests or simply stroll along Mall Road, filled with famous cafes, restaurants, and shops selling souvenirs. You can also visit the historical Viceregal Lodge and famous colonial-era buildings to admire the British-style architecture, or sit silently near the Chadwick Falls and shop at the Lakkar Bazaar. The city offers you various adventure opportunities and spiritual visit options that make it ideal for travellers of all preferences. You can also add nearby destinations like Kufri and Chail to your itinerary to make the best of it and have the best summer holiday experience.
Ideal Duration: 2-4 days
Best Time: October to June
How to Reach:
Best Places to Visit: Mall Road, The Ridge, Christ Church, Scandal Point, Viceregal Lodge, Jakhu Temple, and more.
Things To Do: Toy Train Ride, Rafting, Paragliding, Trekking, Camping, Ice Skating.
A timeless paradise, Kashmir has long captured the imagination of poets, filmmakers, and travellers alike. With its emerald valleys, snow-draped peaks, and mirror-like lakes, it truly lives up to its title as “Heaven on Earth.” Summer breathes new life into the region; apple orchards bloom, meadows burst with wildflowers, and the famed Dal Lake glistens under the soft golden sun. Srinagar, the heart of Kashmir, is enchanting with its romantic shikara rides, colourful houseboats, and Mughal gardens, while places like Gulmarg and Pahalgam offer refreshing highs both literally and figuratively.
Adventure-seekers can trek the verdant trails of Sonamarg or play a round of golf with the Himalayas as their backdrop. Beyond the beauty, Kashmir offers a rich cultural tapestry of Kashmiri cuisine, traditional crafts, and warm local hospitality that will make you feel at home. Whether you are wandering through saffron fields or sipping kawa in a cozy houseboat, Kashmir is a soul-stirring summer retreat that you will carry in your heart long after you have left.
Ideal duration: 4-7 days
Best Time: April to October
How to Reach:
Best Places to Visit: Dal Lake, Mughal Garden, Zero Bridge, Aru Valley, Shankaracharya Temple, Gulmarg Golf Course, Drung Waterfall, Zoji La Pass, Mamal Temple, Seshnag Lake, etc.
Things To Do: Camping, Gondola ride, trekking, white-water rafting, ice skating, skiing, paragliding, and more.
If you are seeking a summer escape that is equal parts serene and surreal, Leh-Ladakh is your calling. Perched at high altitude and surrounded by dramatic landscapes of jagged mountains, azure lakes, and ancient monasteries, this region offers a rugged beauty unlike anywhere else in India. Summer transforms Ladakh into a livable marvel; the snow recedes, roads open up, and the barren terrain takes on vibrant hues. Leh, the capital, is a gateway to some of the most iconic attractions: the mesmerizing Pangong Lake, the magnetic hill, and the monasteries of Thiksey and Hemis.
Adventure junkies can bike along the world’s highest motorable road Khardung La, or go white-water rafting in the Zanskar River. Yet, beyond its thrill, Ladakh offers moments of deep stillness: sunsets over Nubra Valley, star-studded skies at night, and conversations with monks that transcend language. The high-altitude air might leave you breathless, but it is the spiritual energy and raw, untouched landscapes that truly take your breath away. A trip to Leh-Ladakh is not just a vacation; it is a journey of the soul, best experienced during the summer months when nature is at its gentle, welcoming best.
Ideal Duration: 3-7 days
Best Time: April to July
How to Reach:
Best Places to Visit: Pangong Lake, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, Magnetic Hill, Hall of Fame, Thiksey Monastery, Hemis National Park, etc.
Things to Do: Camping, Camel Safari, Jeep Safari, Trekking, Rock Climbing, Mountain biking, Paragliding, River rafting, Ice Hockey.
Cradled by the mighty Kanchanjanga, Darjeeling, the ‘Queen of the Himalayas’ or a prized jewel in the Himalayan Range, offers a unique blend of British colonial charm, Tibetan monasteries, and emerald tea gardens. Misty Mountain Air and Darjeeling Tea make it one of the irresistible cool places to visit in India in summer. It offers you the staggering views of the third-highest peak – Kanchenjunga, and a breathtaking view of the mountains along with the chug-chug in the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the phenomenal experience of strolling through the tea estates.
The region gained the fame of being one of the best places to visit in India during summer with its pleasant weather, especially from April to June, attracting visitors to escape the heat and chill in an environment filled with the rich aromas of tea scents and panoramic views. Don’t miss to enjoy the Darjeeling-Rangeet Valley Passenger Ropeway cable car experience, which is one of the longest cable cars in Asia. For food lovers, the region amazes your taste buds with the flavours of Tibetan, Nepali, and Indian-influenced dishes like momos, thukpa, aloo dum, etc. You can also shop for Tibetan souvenirs like handicrafts, woollenwear, Darjeeling tea, jewelry, and more from Chauk Bazaar and Teesta Bazaar, along with a bag full of happy memories.
Ideal Duration: 2-3 days
Best Time: February to March, September to December
How to Reach:
Best Places To Visit: Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Nightingale Park, Peace Pagoda, Rock Garden, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Singalila National Park, Happy Valley Tea Estate, and more.
Things To Do: Toy Train Ride, Ropeway Ride, Trekking, River Rafting. Tea Garden Exploration, Rock Climbing, Paragliding, etc.
Perched high in Tamil Nadu, Nilgiri Hills, Ooty is one of the best hill stations for family vacations in India with rolling tea estates, misty covered valleys, manicured gardens, eucalyptus forests, and colonial charm. Once the summer headquarters of the East India Company, this hill station still exudes old-world elegance, from its heritage bungalows to the charming toy trains that wind through lush landscapes. Ooty Lake, with its scenic boating rides, and the grasslands sprawling across miles, offers tranquil spaces to unwind and soak in nature. The cool breeze carries the aroma of eucalyptus, and every bend in the road reveals panoramic views of the verdant Western Ghats.
Don’t miss a visit to Doddabetta Peak, the highest point in the Nilgiris and the emerald tea plantation where you can sip freshly brewed Nilgiri Tea. Whether you are walking through pine forests, exploring the rose garden, or simply enjoying a warm cup of tea by the fireplace, the city brings a blend of serenity and nostalgia. Perfect for families, honeymooners, and solo travellers alike, it is the place where time slows down, and the air feels endlessly refreshing.
Ideal duration: 2-3 days
Best Time: March to June
How to Reach:
Best Places To Visit: Ooty Lake, Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Emerald Lake, Ooty Rose Garden, Tea Museum, Government Botanical Gardens, Kalhatti Falls, Pykara Waterfalls, Doddabetta Peak, etc.
Things To Do: Boat Ride, Toy Train Ride, Tribal Tour, Trekking, Mountain Biking, Camping, Fishing, River Rafting, and more.
Tucked away in Palani Hills is a beguiling blend of forest trails, placid lakes, and lofty mountain views. Aptly nicknamed the ‘Princess of Hill Station,’ this peaceful retreat sits at 2133 m above sea level, offering a welcome respite from the summer heat. At its heart is the star-shaped Kodaikanal, where boating amidst misty hills feels like a dream. Scenic viewpoints unveil sweeping vistas that are both soul-soothing and camera-worthy. The town’s charm also lies in its cool weather, fragrant pine forest, and quaint colonial-era cottages.
A walk through Bryant Park, a trek to Dolphin Nose, or a visit to unique architectural temples offers a glimpse into the town’s natural and cultural richness. Known for its homemade chocolate and rare Kurinji flowers that bloom every 12 years, Kodaikanal is both sweet and surreal. Whether you are on a romantic gateway or a quiet solo escape, this town delivers a kind of calm that lingers long after your trip ends.
Ideal Duration: 1-2 days
Best Time: September to May
How to Reach:
Best Places To Visit: Kodaikanal Lake, Green Valley View, Dolphin’s Nose, Bryant Park, Kurinji Andavar Temple, Kuzhanthai Velayudha Swami Thirukoil, Bear Shola Falls, Thalaiyar Falls, Pillar Rocks, Guna Caves, etc.
Things To Do: Boating, Horseback riding, Trekking and hiking, Cycling, Birdwatching, Camping, Attending Cultural Events.
While Auli is often hailed as India’s premium skiing destination, it transforms into a serene summer paradise once the snow melts. Perched at over 2909 m in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, Auli boasts crisp mountain air, panoramic views of snow-draped peaks, and rolling meadows that turn lush green in the warmer months. With towering giants like Nanda Devi and Mana Parvat in the backdrop, the town offers a picture-perfect escape from the chaos of everyday life.
It’s a trekkers’ haven with trails leading through oak and conifer forests to alpine meadows such as Gurson Bugyal. The Auli ropeway, one of the longest in Asia, gives visitors a bird’s eye view of the stunning landscape below. Summer is also the best time to enjoy nature walks, birdwatching, and peaceful picnics amidst wildflowers. Far less crowded than other hill stations, Auli is ideal for travellers seeking peace, adventure, and a deep connection with the mountains. With its blend of natural beauty and tranquillity, this town is a truly hidden gem that shines brightest in the summer.
Ideal Duration: 3-4 days
Best Time to Visit: March and June
How to Reach:
Best Places to Visit: Auli Artificial Lake, Gurso Bugyal, Trishul Peak, Joshimath, Nanda Devi National Park, Narsingh Temple, Chenab Lake, Hanuman Temple, etc.
Things To Do: Skiing, Snowboarding, Trekking, Camping, Ropeway and Chair Lift, Helicopter Himalaya Darshan, Birdwatching.
With rolling green hills, misty mornings, and cascading waterfalls, Shillong feels like a poetic escape straight out of a dream. The capital of Meghalaya, fondly called ‘the Scotland of the East, ‘ Shillong offers a cool and vibrant break from the plains, especially during the summer. Its colonial-era architecture, music-loving culture, and lively local markets make it a fascinating blend of tradition and modernity. The town is surrounded by pine forests and scenic viewpoints like Shillong Peak and Laitlum Canyons, which offer stupendous panoramic vistas.
Various gorgeous waterfalls add a refreshing touch to every itinerary and make it one of the cool places to visit in India in the summer. Shillong is also a gateway to nearby treasures like Cherrapunji and Mawlynnong, often dubbed the cleanest village in Asia. Whether you are wandering through lakes, exploring museums, or simply soaking into the cool mountain air while listening to a local rock band perform live, Shillong feels both refreshing and soulfully alive. With its gentle climate, welcoming locals, delicious cuisine, and cultural richness, it offers a uniquely charming summer escape in the heart of Northeast India.
Ideal Duration: 2-4 days
Best Time: March to June
How to Reach:
Best Places To Visit: Umiam Lake, Ward’s Lake, Butterfly Museum, Elephant Falls, Nohkalikai Falls, Lady Hydari Park, Shillong Peak, Laitlum Canyons, All Saints Church, etc.
Things To Do: Hiking, Camping, Mountain Biking, Waterfall Exploration, Kayaking and Canoeing, Water Rappelling River Rafting, Try Local Cuisine, and Shopping.
Mount Abu, the only hill station in the desert state of Rajasthan, is a lush green surprise nestled in the Aravali Range. Rising high above the dry plains, it offers cool and calming summer vacation ideas for family trips with pleasant temperatures, forest trails, and stunning viewpoints. Its centrepiece, Nakki Lake, is perfect for paddle boating while soaking in mountain views and vibrant sunsets. The town’s charm lies in its tranquil vibe and spiritual heritage, stunning marble carvings, and architectural details.
Mount Abu is also home to Guru Shikhar Peak, the highest point in Rajasthan, which stretches as far as the eye can see. Don’t miss a visit to the wildlife sanctuary where you might spot leopards, deer, and a wide variety of birds. Unlike the bustling desert cities, Mount Abu feels like a calm oasis ideal for honeymooners, nature lovers, and spiritual seekers. It’s the kind of place where you can sip masala chai on a breeze veranda and forget that the rest of Rajasthan is sweltering in the summer sun.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Ideal Duration: 1-2 days
How to Reach:
Best Places To Visit: Nakki Lake, Dilwara temples, Guru Shikhar, Toad Rock, Mount Abu Sunset Point, Honeymoon Point, Arbuda Devi Temple, Achalgarh Fort, Kumbhalgarh Fort, Wildlife Sanctuary, etc.
Things To Do: Boating, Wildlife Safari, Camping, Trekking, Rock Climbing, Rappelling, Zip Lining, and more.
For a perfect and peaceful hill station trip, here are some tips that one should follow:
India’s hill stations are more than just summer escapes; they are soul-refreshing experiences that bring you closer to nature, heritage, and tranquillity. Whether you are gazing at the Himalayas in Auli or sipping tea in Darjeeling’s tea plantations, each hill station has its own story, scent, and skyline. This summer, swap the sweat for serenity, book your favourite from this list with Memorable India and let the hills heal your soul. Contact us to discuss your summer vacation ideas for family trips, couples, solo, or group travel. We are here to assist you!
Where to Go in India for Your Next Vacation: A 15-Stop Guide
12 May 2025
Panchakarma in India: The Ancient Detox Your Body Needs
09 May 2025
Astrology Tourism in India: Where Stars Guide Your Journey
09 May 2025
India tour itinerary for 10 days: What to see and where to go
05 May 2025
Best Kid-Friendly Summer Destinations in India
30 Apr 2025
