21 Best Hill Stations Near Delhi to Visit in 2023

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It’s summer in Delhi, and the scorching sun and sticky humidity make it difficult for us to spend time outdoors.  People plan weekend getaways to ditch the scorching heat and the busy hectic schedule alike. If you are looking for a comfortable summer holiday, why not consider visiting hill stations in the vicinity of Delhi? Not only will you get to enjoy the cool breeze and mild climate, but you will also be able to explore some beautiful locales that are perfect for a relaxing and rejuvenating vacation.

While there are plenty of summer getaways across India, we have shortlisted the must-visit hill stations near Delhi that can be reached overnight and ideal for a weekend stay. Do have a read!

1. Lansdowne

Lansdowne has been a favorite weekend getaway for Delhi folks during summers. Lansdowne hill station is one of the most popular tourist destinations located 280 Kms from Delhi. It is one of the most scenic areas in the city and its location allows people to enjoy a panoramic view of the city. The area is also well connected by both rail and road. The hill station is also home to a number of museums and art galleries. There are several golf courses in the area as well. It is a perfect destination to spend your summer at.

How to Reach?

Lansdowne is located about 280 kilometres from Delhi.

• Train and Cab (7h): The cheapest option is a train trip to Meerut, followed by a cab to Lansdowne.
• Cab: The fastest option is a cab drive from Delhi to Lansdowne.

Duration: 7 Hours

Things to Do:

Visit Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple, Tip-in-Top Point, Darwan Singh Museum, Garhwal Rifles Regimental War Memorial and boating in Bhulla Tal Lake.

2. Nainital

If you are looking for a place to enjoy the great outdoors and relax in peaceful surroundings, Nainital is the perfect destination. This beautiful hill station is 300 kms from Delhi and is only a few hours away from the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas. It has a mild climate and is known for its natural wonders, including its scenic lakes and valleys. The city is well connected by road and rail, making it easy to get around. There are also a number of attractions and activities that you can enjoy, such as skiing, trekking, cycling, and fishing.

How to Reach?

Nainital is located about 330 kilometers from Delhi.

• Bus: The quickest and easiest way to reach Nainital is to take a bus from Delhi. The bus fare is around Rs. 650, and the journey takes around six hours.
• Taxi: You can hire a taxi from Delhi to Nainital, which would cost around 3000/-.

Duration: 7 Hours

Things to Do:

While at Nainital you can enjoy visiting the Nainital Lake, Mukteshwar Temple, Goddess Naina Devi Temple, Naina Peak, Nainital Ropeway, and Eco Cave Gardens.

3. Shimla

Shimla, the Queen of Hill Stations, is a beautiful hill station located in the state of Himachal Pradesh in India. Shimla has been a favourite summer destination for tourists from Delhi because of its vicinity. The city is surrounded by mountains and valleys, making it a picturesque place to stay. Shimla also has a rich history that dates back to the time of the British Raj. Shimla is a culturally rich city with a lot of heritage sites to visit. There are many hotels in Shimla that offer good facilities and affordable rates.

How to Reach?

Shimla is located at 343 kilometers from Delhi.

• Flight & Bus (3h 59m): The fastest option is to take a flight from Delhi to Chandigarh and a bus from Chandigarh to Shimla. It could cost around 2000/-.
• Train & Bus (6h): Take a train from Delhi to Ambala Cantt and then a bus to Shimla. The trip will cost you 1700/-.
• Bus (9h 48m): The cheapest option is to take a bus from Delhi to Shimla, which will cost you 651/-.

Duration: 7h 22m

Things to Do:

Visit Jakhu Temple, Viceregal Lodge, Ridge, Green Valley, Kali Bari Temple, Kufri Fun World, Jakhoo Hill and scenic ride in the Kalka- Shimla Railway.

4. Morni Hills

Morni Hill is a beautiful hill station located in the outskirts of Chandigarh, at around 253 kms from Delhi. With sprawling green gardens, bubbling brooks, and picturesque villages in and around the area, it’s a perfect place to spend a summer weekend or holiday. It’s also the perfect place to unwind after a long day of work. Morni Hill is home to many popular tourist destinations, such as the world-famous Deer Park, the Golf Club, and the Botanical Garden.

How to Reach?

Morni Hills is located at 253 kilometres from Delhi.

• Take a train from New Delhi to Ambala and a cab from to Morni Hills.
• Board a bus to Ambala and a cab to Morni Hills.

Duration: 4h 56m

Things to Do:

Top 5 places to visit in Morni Hills are:

Tikkar Lake

Karoh Peak

Morni Fort

Gurudwara Nada Sahib

Thakurdwara Temple

5. Parwanoo

Parwanoo is a charming hill station located in the lower reaches of the Shivalik mountains in Himachal Pradesh. Nestled away high in the mountains, Parwanoo is one of the most picturesque villages in the state and is popular for its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage and relaxed atmosphere. The place is also home to some of the best temples in Himachal Pradesh. There are plenty of leisure activities to keep you busy during your stay, including hiking, cycling, sightseeing, and relaxing at one of the many lakes or resorts.

How to Reach?

Parwanoo Hills is located at 264.6 kilometres from Delhi.

• Flight & Cab (2h 20m): The fastest option is to take a flight from Delhi to Chandigarh and a cab from Chandigarh to Parwanoo. It could cost around 5,300/-.
• Train & Cab (5h 32m): The cheapest option is to take a train from Delhi to Chandigarh and then a cab to Parwanoo. The trip will cost you 1200/-.

Duration: 5h 10m

Things to Do:

• Enjoy the adventurous cable car ride and scenic views at Timber Trail Resort.
• Visit the beautiful peach and apple orchards.
• Visit the ancient Kali Mata Temple.
• Visit the historic Gorkha Fort.

6. Kasauli

Kasauli is a picturesque hill station in Himachal Pradesh. It is located at an altitude of 2,598 metres (8,876 ft), about 301 kilometers from Delhi. The town is famous for its natural scenery and for the Buddhist pilgrimage site of Kasauli Dharamsala. Kasauli also has a few resorts and guest houses. Kasauli is a popular tourist destination to enjoy the nature walks, views, ski, bird watching and hike in the area’s many trails and relax in the resorts.

How to Reach?

Kasauli is located at 301 kilometres from Delhi.

• Flight & Cab (2h 50m): The fastest option is to take a flight from Delhi to Chandigarh and a cab from Chandigarh to Kasauli. It could cost around 5,700/-.
• Train & Cab (6h 2m): The cheapest option is to take a train from Delhi to Chandigarh and then a cab to Kasauli. The trip will cost you 1600/-.

Duration: 5h 56m

Things to Do:

• Catch the beautiful sunrise view at the Sunrise Point.
• Visit the historical Gurkha Fort.
• Explore the non-gothic architecture at the historic Christ Church.

7. Mussoorie

Mussoorie is a small town located in the Himalayan foothills, about 350 km from New Delhi. The city is well-known for its landscape and its proximity to some of the most spectacular tourist destinations in India such as Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar. The town has many colonial-era buildings that have been preserved and are now tourist attractions. Today, Mussoorie is mainly known for its ski resorts, which attract tourists from all over the world.

How to Reach?

Mussoorie is located at 312.9 kilometres from Delhi.

• Flight & Cab (3h 7m): The fastest option is to take a flight from Delhi to Dehradun and a taxi to Mussoorie. It could cost around 5,500/-.
• Train & Cab (4h 58m): The cheapest option is to take a train from Delhi to Muzaffarnagar and then a cab to Mussoorie. The trip will cost you 3000/-.

Duration: 6h 29m

Things to Do:

• Enjoy the mesmerising view from the highest point, Lal Tibba.
• Hiking in Camel’s Back Road.
• Visit the beautiful Kempty Falls.
• Visit Jabarkhet Wildlife Reserve.

8. Dhanaulti

Dhanaulti hill station stands tall on the hills of the Western Ghats, overlooking the valley below. It is a popular weekend getaway for Delhi residents. The locality is known for its natural beauty and picturesque surroundings. The journey from Delhi is highly scenic and takes around 3 hours by car. The station has a number of restaurants and hotels which offer a wide variety of cuisine options. The hill station also offers shopping opportunities as well as various recreational activities such as hiking, biking, and horse riding.

How to Reach?

Dhanaulti is located at 288 kilometres from Delhi.

• Flight & Cab: The fastest option is to take a flight from Delhi to Dehradun and a taxi to Dhanaulti. It could cost around 3,435/-.
• Train & Cab: The cheapest option is to take a train from Delhi to Dehradun and then a cab to Dhanaulti.

Duration: 6h 33m

Things to Do:

• Enjoy trekking, hiking, rock climbing and sky walking in Eco Park.
• Visit Deogarh Fort.
• Have fun visiting the Kanatal Adventure Camp.
• Visit Surkanda Devi Temple.

9. Bhimtal

Bhimtal is located in the foothills of the Himalayas and is a popular tourist destination in Uttarakhand. The valley is known for its untouched beauty, crystal-clear alpine lakes, snow-capped peaks, and enchanting valleys.  Bhimtal offers panoramic views of the Himalayas, and its surroundings are covered in pine forests, meadows, and glaciers. There are many interesting places to visit in Bhimtal such as Purolam Ghat, the Lotus Temple, and the Kali Temple. The town is known for its natural beauty and religious significance.

How to Reach?

Bhimtal is located at 322 kilometres from Delhi.

• Train & bus: The easiest option is to take a train from Delhi to Kathgodam and then a bus to Bhimtal.

Duration: 6h 58m

Things to Do:

• Experience boating in Bhimtal Lake.
• Enjoy parasailing and paragliding at Eagle Eye Adventure.
• Enjoy visiting Karkota Temple.

10. Chakrata

A place to retreat, a sanctuary from the relentless noise of the city, and a place to rejuvenate – Chakrata is all that and more. The journey begins with the climb up to the hill station, and then follows the winding path up to its highest point. Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding area. The area around Chakrata Hillstation is known for its natural beauty, and it is a popular tourist destination for people who enjoy hiking and nature conservation. If you are ever in the Capital city and looking for a place to unwind, make sure to visit Chakrata!

How to Reach?

Chakrata is located at 323 kilometres from Delhi.

• By Air: Dehradun is the nearest airport from Delhi to Chakrata. You can take a taxi from Dehradun to Chakrata
• By Train : Take a train from Delhi to Dehradun and then a taxi to Chakrata.

Duration: 7h 29m

Things to Do:

• Enjoy a dip in the beautiful Tiger Falls.
• Do not miss hiking at Moila top.
• Enjoy the sunset at Chilmiri Neck.
• Bird watching experience at

11. Ranikhet

Ranikhet is one of the most popular hill stations around Delhi. It offers amazing views of the Himalayas and is a popular tourist destination and has a number of tourist attractions, including the Ranikhet Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to a number of endangered animals. As Ranikhet is located in a hilly area, it experiences a fair amount of rainfall, making it a beautiful place to visit in any season. If you are looking for a place to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Ranikhet is the right destination for you.

How to Reach?

Ranikhet is located at 381 kilometres from Delhi.

• Hire Taxi (8h13m): Take a direct taxi from Delhi to Ranikhet, which would cost you around 4800/-.
• Train and Cab (6h5m): The cheapest option is to take a train from Delhi to Rampur and then a taxi to Ranikhet.

Duration: 8h 54m

Things to Do:

• Visit the Jhula Devi Temple.
• Explore Bhalu Dam.
• At Chaubatia Gardens, enjoy the walk-through orchards.
• Enjoy boating and kayaking by the Naukuchiatal Lake.

12. Almora

Nestled in the evergreen Himalayas, Almora is a picturesque destination that offers a serene oasis away from the city. With its array of stunningly beautiful lakes, greenery-rich hills, and picturesque villages, Almora offers a tranquil experience that is perfect for reconnecting with nature. While there’s plenty to do in Almora, whether you’re exploring the villages or hiking the trails, there’s no denying that it’s one of the most rewarding destinations.

How to Reach?

Almora is located at 387 kilometres from Delhi.

• Hire Taxi (8h 20m): Take a direct taxi from Delhi to Almora, which would cost you around 4900/-.
• Train and Cab (6h9m): The cheapest option is to take a train from Delhi to Rampur and then a taxi to Almora. It would cost you around 2,900/-.

Duration: 9h

Things to Do:

• Trek through the forest to the Zero Point.
• Visit the Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum.
• Visit the Chitai Golu Devta Temple
• Visit the Nanda Devi Temple.

13. Binsar

If you’re looking for a picturesque hill station in the heart of Himachal Pradesh, then Binsar should be at the top of your list. Nestled in the picturesque Kangra Valley, this charming hill station is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush green forests. With a population of around 2000 people, Binsar is perfect for a weekend getaway. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy, from hiking and horseback riding to skiing and cycling.

How to Reach?

Binsar is located at 410 kilometres from Delhi.

• Train & Cab: The cheapest option is to take a train from Delhi to Kathgodam and then a cab to Binsar.

Duration: 10h

Things to Do:

• Do not miss the Binsar Trek.
• Visit the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Enjoy paragliding and skiing at Binsar.

14. Kausani

Kausani is a popular hill station in the state of Uttarakhand. The station is located at an altitude of 3,868 metres above sea level and offers a panoramic view of the Himalayas. Kausani is well known for its natural beauty and lush vegetation. The area around Kausani is a popular spot for hiking and trekking. There are several tea estates in the vicinity of the hill station, and it is a popular spot for cycling. The area is known for its pine and oak forests, as well as its ski trails and golf courses.

How to Reach?

Kausani is located at 430 kilometres from Delhi.

• Train & Cab: The cheapest option is to take a train from Delhi to Kathgodam and then a cab to Kausani.
• Hire a Taxi: Hire a taxi from Delhi to Kausani.

Duration: 10h 31m

Things to Do:

• Visit the Rudradhari Falls and Caves.
• Enjoy the adventurous trek to
• Visit Kausani Tea Estate.
• Visit Kausani Planetarium.

15. Mandi

Mandi is a small hill station located in the lap of the Himalayas, in Himachal Pradesh. The place is also known for its apple orchards, which are home to some of the best apples in India. Apart from apples, other fruits grown in the orchards include pears, quinces, apricots, plums and cherries. The town is also famous for its honey, which is produced by bees that have colonized the area since time immemorial. Mandi offers a lot of recreational activities and offers skiing lessons at various schools.

How to Reach?

Mandi is located at 431 kilometres from Delhi.

• Train & Cab: Take a train from Delhi to Kiratpur, the nearest station and then a cab to Mandi.

Duration: 9h 23m

Things to Do:

• Enjoy the trek to Prashar Lake.
• Enjoy camping in Barot Valley under the stars.
• Visit the Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Enjoy water sports at Pandoh Dam.
• Visit the beautiful Rewalsar Lake.

16. Dharamshala

Dharamshala is a hill station in Himachal Pradesh that lies in the Dhauladhar range. It was founded by Tibetan lamas in the 1950s as a place of peace and contemplation. Today, it is a popular tourist destination, known for its natural beauty and its many Buddhist monasteries and schools. The town has a number of hotels and guesthouses, as well as restaurants and shops. It is also home to the Tibetan Cultural Centre, which offers visitors a range of exhibitions and events.

How to Reach?

Dharamshala is located at 469 kilometres from Delhi.

• By Air: Gaggal is the nearest airport from Delhi to Dharamshala. You can take a taxi from there to Dharamshala
• By Train: Take a train from Delhi to Pathankot and then a taxi to Dharamshala.

Duration: 9h 33m

Things to Do:

• Trek by Kareri Lake.
• Explore Jwalamukhi Devi Temple.
• Visit the historic Kangra Fort.
• Visit Gyuto Monastery.

17. McLeodganj

McLeodganj is a small town located in the state of Uttarakhand. It is a popular tourist destination owing to its scenic beauty, historical significance, and cultural heritage.  The town boasts of some of the best-preserved colonial buildings in India. Not only that, McLeodganj is also known for its vibrant nightlife and breath-taking view of the Himalayas. Whether it’s exploring the stunning Himalayan views or trying your hand at extreme sports, this small town in Uttarakhand has it all!

How to Reach?

McLeodganj is located at 474 kilometres from Delhi.

• Bus (10h 40m): The cheapest way to reach McLeodganj is to take a direct bus from Delhi to McLeodganj.
• Bus & taxi (9h 30m): Take a bus from Delhi to Amb and then a taxi to McLeodganj.

Duration: 9h 30m

Things to Do:

• Enjoy the adventurous Triund Trek.
• Visit Bhagsu Falls.
• Enjoy the Indrahar Pass Trek.
• Visit the Namgyal Monastery.

18. Bir

Bir in Himachal Pradesh is a picturesque destination that will leave you spellbound. It is a land of valleys and snow-capped peaks that offer amazing hiking trails in all directions. The picturesque village has a well-preserved old-world charm and is a haven for nature enthusiasts. The streams, valleys, and forests here are a perfect place to take a walk, cycle, or spend time surrounded by natural beauty. If you’re looking for an escape from the city life and want to explore some of the best sights in India, Bir is the perfect destination.

How to Reach?

Bir Billing is located at 489 kilometres from Delhi.

• Bus: The easiest way to reach Bir is to take a direct bus from Delhi to Bir.
• Taxi: You can hire a taxi from Delhi to Bir.

Duration: 10h 46m

Things to Do:

• Visit Bangoru Waterfalls.
• Enjoy paragliding at Bir.
• Enjoy the Toy Train Ride.
• Visit the Deer Park Institute.
• Enjoy adventurous activities like camping, mountain biking and hang gliding.

19. Chamoli

Chamoli is a picturesque hill station located in Uttarakhand. The pleasant climate, lush greenery, and serene surroundings make it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the state. Known for its natural wonders such as the Rishikesh National Park and Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara, Chamoli is a perfect spot to relax and unwind. Thanks to its proximate location to major cities like Delhi and Mumbai, it is also a popular weekend getaway for people in the city. If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination to spend your holidays, Chamoli is the place for you!

How to Reach?

Chamoli is located at 491 kilometres from Delhi.

• By Air: Dehradun is the nearest airport from Delhi to Chamoli. You can take a taxi from Dehradun to Chamoli
• By Train: Take a train from Delhi to Rishikesh and then a taxi to Chamoli.

Duration: 11h 47m

Things to Do:

• Visit the Vasundhara Waterfalls.
• Enjoy paragliding and skiing at Auli.
• Explore the Gopeshwar Town.

20. Kullu

Kullu is a beautiful city located in the state of Himachal Pradesh. It is situated at an altitude of 3,700 metres (12,000 ft) and has a population of around 36,000. Kullu’s attractions include its forests, trekking routes, lakes, and temples. The valley is best known for its rice terraces, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is home to many tourist attractions, including the Snow Leopard Centre, the Kullu-Manali Road and the Kullu Temple.

How to Reach?

Kullu is located at 497 kilometres from Delhi.

• Flight & Cab (1h 25m): The fastest option is to take a flight from Delhi to KulluManali. It could cost around 7,100/-.
• Train & Cab (7h 31m): You can take a train from Delhi to Chandigarh and then a cab to Kullu.

Duration: 11h 27m

Things to Do:

• Enjoy the trek to Malana Village.
• Enjoy river rafting.
• Enjoy activities like paragliding and camping.

21. Kasol

Kasol is a hill station located in the state of Uttarakhand. Kasol is known for its natural beauty and has been a popular tourist destination for both domestic and international visitors. Kasol lies at an altitude of 1,570 metres (5,274 ft) and is surrounded by dense forests. Kasol is also known for its hot springs, numerous lakes and rivers, and many picture-perfect valleys. Famous for its hill stations, forests and lakes, Kasol is also popular for its weekend getaways.

How to Reach?

Kasol is located at 517 kilometres from Delhi.

• Train & Cab (10h 16m): You can take a train from Delhi to Chandigarh and then a cab to Kasol.

Duration: 12h 14m

Things to Do:

• Enjoy riverside camping in Kasol.
• Enjoy the adventurous Kheerganga Trek.
• Visit Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara.
• Take a walk by Parvati River.

Hill stations offer a unique experience that’s hard to find anywhere else. They’re a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, and allow for a fresh perspective on life. In this blog, we’ve listed some of the best hill stations near Delhi that you must visit for some relaxation and respite from the city life. From quaint villages to scenic beauty spots, these hill stations will leave you with a memory you’ll never forget. So, which one is your favourite? Let us know in the comments below!