10 OF THE BEST HILL STATIONS NEAR DELHI FOR SHORT VACATIONS

There are several beautiful hill stations near Delhi that are perfect for a quick getaway or short vacation. These destinations offer scenic beauty, pleasant weather, and a chance to unwind from the hustle and bustle of city life. Some popular hill stations near Delhi include Shimla, Mussoorie, Nainital, McLeod Ganj, Lansdowne, Kasauli, Dalhousie, Chail, Mukteshwar, Dhanaulti and lots more. Here is a list of 10 such destinations where you can escape for a relaxing vacation. Each of these places has its own unique charm and attractions that make them worth visiting. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or simply a break from routine, these hill stations have something for everyone.
1. Shimla
Shimla is one of the most popular hill stations near Delhi and is known for its colonial architecture, scenic beauty, and pleasant climate. It is located about 350 km from Delhi and is easily accessible by road, rail, and air. Here are some of the top attractions and things to do in Shimla:
- The Ridge: This is a spacious open space in the heart of Shimla, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It is also the venue for many cultural events and celebrations.
- The Mall: This is the main shopping street in Shimla, lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. It is a great place to take a leisurely stroll and soak in the ambiance of the hill station.
- Christ Church: This is a beautiful church located on The Ridge, which is known for its stained glass windows and colonial architecture.
- Jakhu Temple: Located on a hilltop, this temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
- Kufri: This is a picturesque hill station located about 16 km from Shimla, known for its natural beauty, adventure activities, and winter sports.
- Shimla Heritage Walk: This is a guided walking tour that takes you through the colonial-era buildings and landmarks of Shimla, giving you a glimpse of its rich history and heritage.
- Summer Hill: This is a scenic suburb of Shimla, known for its lush greenery, quiet atmosphere, and scenic views.
2. Mussoorie
Mussoorie is a charming hill station located in the state of Uttarakhand and is known for its beautiful landscape, colonial architecture, and pleasant weather. It is located about 280 km from Delhi and can be reached by road, rail, and air. Some of the top attractions in Mussoorie include:
- Kempty Falls: A picturesque waterfall located about 15 kilometers from Mussoorie, where visitors can take a dip in the cool waters and enjoy the surrounding scenery.
- Gun Hill: The second-highest peak in Mussoorie, Gun Hill offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valley below.
- Lal Tibba: The highest peak in Mussoorie, Lal Tibba is known for its stunning views of the Himalayan range and the surrounding landscape.
- Camel’s Back Road: A scenic road in Mussoorie that is popular for its views of the hills and valleys, as well as for its walking trails and horse riding.
- The Mall Road: The main shopping street in Mussoorie, lined with restaurants, cafes, shops, and street vendors selling local handicrafts.
Some popular activities to enjoy in Mussoorie include:
- Trekking: With its scenic landscapes and mountainous terrain, Mussoorie is a great destination for trekking enthusiasts, with a range of trails to choose from.
- Cable car ride: A cable car ride from Jhulaghat to Gun Hill offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
- Nature walks: Mussoorie has a number of scenic walking trails and paths, which are perfect for taking a leisurely stroll and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
- Adventure sports: Visitors can indulge in adventure sports like paragliding, zip-lining, and rock climbing in Mussoorie.
3. Nainital
Nainital is a serene hill station located in the state of Uttarakhand and is known for its picturesque lakes, lush green forests, and pleasant weather. It is located about 300 km from Delhi and can be reached by road, rail, and air. Some of the top attractions and must-visit places in and around Nainital are:
- Naini Lake: The beautiful Naini Lake is the main attraction of Nainital. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake and enjoy the scenic beauty.
- Naina Devi Temple: The ancient Naina Devi Temple is dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi and is located on the northern shore of Naini Lake.
- Tiffin Top: Tiffin Top is a popular viewpoint that offers stunning views of the Himalayas and the Nainital town.
- Snow View Point: Snow View Point is another popular viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the snow-clad Himalayas.
- Bhimtal Lake: Bhimtal Lake is a beautiful lake located about 22 km from Nainital. Visitors can enjoy boating and other water sports activities here.
4. McLeod Ganj
McLeod Ganj is a peaceful hill station located in the state of Himachal Pradesh and is known for its serene monasteries, stunning landscape, and cool weather. It is located about 490 km from Delhi and can be reached by road, rail, and air. Here’s some information on what makes McLeod Ganj a must-visit destination:
- Natural Beauty: McLeod Ganj is surrounded by the majestic Dhauladhar mountain range and offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks, lush green forests, and the Kangra Valley. It is an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts who can indulge in activities like trekking, hiking, and camping.
- Tibetan Culture: McLeod Ganj is also known as “Little Lhasa” and is home to a large population of Tibetans who have made it their home since the Dalai Lama fled from Tibet in 1959. The town has a distinct Tibetan culture and offers visitors a chance to experience the rich traditions, cuisine, and way of life of the Tibetan people.
- Spirituality: McLeod Ganj is home to several monasteries, temples, and meditation centers, making it a popular destination for those seeking spiritual solace. The most famous monastery in the town is the Namgyal Monastery, which is the personal monastery of the Dalai Lama.
- Food: McLeod Ganj offers a variety of dining options, including traditional Tibetan cuisine, Indian cuisine, and international cuisine. The town is famous for its momos, a Tibetan dish made with steamed or fried dumplings filled with meat or vegetables and served with a spicy dipping sauce.
Top attractions and things to do in McLeod Ganj:
- Bhagsu Waterfall
- Triund Trek
- Namgyal Monastery
- Tsuglagkhang Complex
- Dal Lake
- St. John’s Church
- Dharamkot
- Tibetan Museum
- Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts
- Norbulingka Institute
5. Lansdowne
Lansdowne is a quiet hill station located in the state of Uttarakhand and is known for its natural beauty, colonial architecture, and tranquil atmosphere. It is located about 250 km from Delhi and can be reached by road and rail. Here are some details about Lansdowne:
Lansdowne is a peaceful and serene hill station, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The town has a colonial charm with its old-world bungalows, churches, and heritage buildings. It is surrounded by thick oak and pine forests, and offers a stunning view of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks. Lansdowne is perfect for those who want to relax and enjoy nature’s beauty.
Tourists can enjoy trekking, camping, bird watching, boating, and nature walks in the lush green forests. Lansdowne also has a few adventure camps that offer activities like rock climbing, rappelling, and zipline. The town is home to the Garhwal Rifles, and tourists can visit the Garhwal Rifles Museum to learn about the history of the regiment.
Some of the top attractions and must-visit places in and around Lansdowne are:
- Bhulla Lake: A man-made lake where tourists can enjoy boating and picnicking.
- Tip-in-Top: A popular viewpoint that offers a panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges.
- St. Mary’s Church: An old British-era church that is still used for Sunday prayers.
- War Memorial: A memorial dedicated to the soldiers of the Garhwal Rifles who lost their lives in various wars.
- Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple: A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located amidst thick forests.
- Kaleshwar Mahadev Temple: Another ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located on a hilltop.
6. Kasauli
Kasauli is a small and peaceful hill station located in the state of Himachal Pradesh and is known for its old-world charm, colonial architecture, and scenic beauty. It is located about 290 km from Delhi and can be reached by road and rail. Here’s some information about Kasauli:
- What makes it a destination worth visiting: Kasauli is known for its peaceful surroundings, beautiful natural scenery, and colonial-era architecture. It is a great place to relax and unwind in the midst of nature.
- Popular activities: Some of the popular activities to enjoy in Kasauli include hiking and trekking, nature walks, visiting the local temples and churches, and exploring the colonial-era architecture.
- Top attractions in and around Kasauli: Some of the top attractions in Kasauli include the Kasauli Club, Gilbert Trail, Christ Church, Kasauli Brewery, Gurkha Fort, and Monkey Point. Nearby attractions include the Kalka-Shimla Railway, Dagshai, and Chail.
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit Kasauli is from March to June and September to November. The weather during these months is pleasant, with clear skies and comfortable temperatures. The Summer Festival, held in June, is a popular event in Kasauli.
- How to reach: Kasauli is well-connected by road and can be easily reached by bus, taxi, or private car from nearby cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, and Shimla. The nearest airport is in Chandigarh, about 70 km away, and the nearest railway station is in Kalka, about 40 km away.
7. Dalhousie
Dalhousie is a picturesque hill station located in the state of Himachal Pradesh and is known for its breathtaking scenery, tranquil environment, and pleasant weather. It is located about 560 km from Delhi and can be reached by road, rail, and air. Here’s some information about the destination:
- What makes it a destination worth visiting: Dalhousie is known for its pleasant climate, scenic beauty, and colonial architecture. It is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, lush green valleys, and pine forests, making it a perfect retreat for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
- Popular activities: Trekking, camping, paragliding, zorbing, and nature walks are some of the popular activities that tourists can enjoy in Dalhousie. There are also several sightseeing options such as Panchpula Waterfall, Khajjiar Lake, Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, and the Dalhousie Cantonment area.
- Top attractions: Some of the top attractions in Dalhousie include St. Francis Church, Subhash Baoli, and the Dalhousie Public School. Khajjiar, a nearby hill station also known as ‘Mini Switzerland of India’, is a must-visit place near Dalhousie.
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit Dalhousie is from March to June when the weather is pleasant, and the flora and fauna are at their best. Winter months (December to February) are also popular among tourists as it snows during this time, and the place looks stunning.
- How to reach: The nearest airport is the Gaggal airport in Kangra, which is around 115 km away. Pathankot railway station, located around 80 km away, is the nearest major railway station. One can also take a bus or hire a taxi from nearby cities like Pathankot, Dharamshala, and Shimla.
8. Chail
Chail is a serene hill station located in the state of Himachal Pradesh and is known for its stunning natural beauty, lush green forests, and quiet atmosphere. It is located about 340 km from Delhi and can be reached by road and rail. Some of the factors that make Chail a must-visit destination are:
- Natural Beauty: Chail is blessed with stunning natural beauty, with lush green forests, rolling hills, and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. It is an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts who enjoy trekking and hiking.
- Historical Significance: Chail was once the summer capital of the Maharaja of Patiala and has a rich history. The Chail Palace, which was built in the late 19th century, is a major attraction in the town and offers a glimpse into the region’s royal past.
- Adventure Activities: Chail offers a range of adventure activities, including trekking, hiking, and camping. The Chail Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife species, including the Himalayan black bear, goral, and leopard.
- Pleasant Climate: Chail enjoys a pleasant climate throughout the year, making it an ideal destination for those looking to escape the heat of the plains. The temperature rarely exceeds 25 degrees Celsius, even during the summer months.
Some of the top attractions and must-visit places in and around Chail include:
- Chail Palace: The Chail Palace is a major attraction in the town and was built in the late 19th century. It offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is now a hotel run by the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation.
- Chail Wildlife Sanctuary: The Chail Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife species, including the Himalayan black bear, goral, and leopard. It is also a popular destination for trekking and hiking.
- Kali Temple: The Kali Temple is a famous temple in Chail and is located on a hilltop. It offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
- Sadhupul Lake: Sadhupul Lake is a beautiful lake located near Chail and is a popular destination for picnics and day trips. The lake is surrounded by lush green forests and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
9. Mukteshwar
Mukteshwar is a peaceful hill station located in the state of Uttarakhand and is known for its scenic beauty, tranquil environment, and breathtaking views of the Himalayas. It is located about 350 km from Delhi and can be reached by road and rail. Mukteshwar is a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. It offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges, dense forests, and fruit orchards. It is also home to the famous Mukteshwar Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Tourists can enjoy trekking, camping, and rock climbing in Mukteshwar. The place is also famous for its fruit orchards, so visitors can indulge in fruit picking and taste fresh, organic fruits. Paragliding is another popular activity that tourists can enjoy here. Mukteshwar Temple is the major attraction of Mukteshwar. Other popular places to visit include Chauli Ki Jali, Mukteshwar Dham, Bhalu Gaad Waterfalls, and the Indian Veterinary Research Institute. Visitors can also take a day trip to Nainital, which is just a 1.5-hour drive away.
The best time to visit Mukteshwar is from March to June and from September to November when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. The annual Mukteshwar Mahotsav, which is held in June, is a popular festival that attracts many tourists. The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, which is about 95 km away from Mukteshwar. The nearest railway station is Kathgodam Railway Station, which is about 62 km away. Mukteshwar is well-connected by road and can be easily reached by bus or taxi from major cities in North India.
10. Dhanaulti
Dhanaulti is a serene and unspoiled hill station located in the state of Uttarakhand and is known for its natural beauty, picturesque landscape, and tranquil environment. It is located about 310 km from Delhi and can be reached by road. Some of the factors that make Dhanaulti a must-visit destination are:
- Scenic beauty: Dhanaulti is surrounded by dense forests of oak, deodar, and rhododendron, which make for a picturesque setting. The town offers panoramic views of the Himalayas and the nearby valleys.
- Adventure activities: Dhanaulti is a hub for adventure activities such as trekking, camping, and rappelling. There are several trekking trails in and around the town that offer breathtaking views of the mountains.
- Eco-park: Dhanaulti has an eco-park which is a popular picnic spot. It is located amidst dense forests and offers a peaceful atmosphere for visitors to relax.
- Surkanda Devi temple: The Surkanda Devi temple is located near Dhanaulti and is a popular religious site. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is surrounded by beautiful landscapes.
- Apple orchards: Dhanaulti is known for its apple orchards, which are located in and around the town. Visitors can take a walk through the orchards and enjoy the fresh apples.
The best time to visit Dhanaulti is between April and June, and from September to November, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities.