Top 5 Hill stations in India

The Himalayas has some of the highest peaks in the world. On the foothills of these show-clad mountains, there are a number of hills towns in India. They boast of being some of the most amazing hill stations, filled with natural scenic beauty. The hill stations in India are perfect for all kinds of vacations, be it in the summers, in winters or for a honeymoon. Here are top 5 hill stations in India visited by a large number of tourists from all over the world:  

Manali

Manali, located in the mountains of Himachal Pradesh, is not only a breathtakingly beautiful town but is also famous for a range of adventure activities. There are numerous tourist attractions in and around Manali such as Kullu, Rohtang Pass (situated at 13000 ft), Solang Valley, Hidimba temple, the Naggar Fort, Manikaran etc. You can indulge in a number of activities like river rafting, para-sailing, zorbing, zip-lining and so on.

Shimla

 

The Summer Capital of the British, Shimla, in the present times is the state capital of Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the most thronged hill stations of the country. This beautiful hill town has colonial style buildings, oak and pine forests, floral valleys and mountain ridges. You can shop at the famous Mall road. There are innumerable tourist spots here which include Observatory hill, the old Christ Church, Scandal Point, Vicergal Lodge etc. Try short distance hiking here.

Darjeeling

Darjeeling, situated in West Bengal, does not only has lush tea gardens but is a hill town with a lot of natural beauty. A major attraction of this place is that from a particular place, travelers can have a clear view of Mt. Kanchenjunga, the third highest peak in the world. You can visit the extremely popular tea gardens and tea factories. There are other attractions too like Zoo, botanical gardens and various monasteries sprinkled, all around. Take a ride in the toy train or travel in the Darjeeling-Rangeet Valley Passenger Ropeway cable car. It is the longest cable car in Asia. Take a stroll in the markets or the countryside.

Srinagar

Srinagar is another beautiful hill town, which is also the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir. You can have a delightful vacation in the luxurious houseboats, floating on the lakes of the region. Srinagar has plenty of lakes and gardens and thus many times is referred to as the ‘Land of Lakes and Gardens’. The largest tulip garden of Asia is here only that plays host to the annual tulip festival. It also has some of the best trekking tracks as well.  Most of the gardens have a distinct Mughal influence.

Munnar 

Munnar, a hill town of Kerala, is located in the Western Ghats. The place is well-known for its amazing climate and its sprawling tea estates. This lush green hill station in the southern part of India has the highest mountain of the South: Anaimudi. Fondly known as ‘Little London’, it is a perfect venue for trekking enthusiasts and nature lovers. You can try your hand at other adventure activities too like para-gliding as well as rock climbing.