India is a diverse land and nowhere is the fact more evident than its geography with lofty mountains to wide plains, lush green forests to dry sandy desert, all located within its boundaries. The summers are very harsh in most parts of the nation and in this article we will take a look at top 5 best hill stations situated in different corners that can be visited during the season.
1. Gulmarg, Jammu, and Kashmir
The location of choice for countless Bollywood films, it is located about 50 km from the state’s capital Srinagar in a valley in the Pir Panjal mountain range. Well known for its winter sports infrastructure, one of the highlights of the place is the Gulmarg Gondola which is among the highest ropeways in the world. It is used by skiers and tourists alike to reach the Apharwat peak that provides a breathtaking view of the snow-filled landscape. Its worldwide fame means even foreigners keep looking for best hotel deals in India and therefore it will be wise to make bookings well in advance.
2. Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Situated in the Kullu district near the river Beas, it is the destination of choice for many people looking for respite from the harsh summers of the country. The resort town is connected by road from Delhi and regular bus services can be found here. Those wishing to travel by train can go upto Chandigarh from where they will have to cover the rest of the distance of about 250 km by road. The major attractions are the Rohtang Pass which provides a sweeping view of the mountains, Solang valley which is known for its ski lift and the Hidimba temple apart from many beautiful waterfalls.
3. Ooty, Tamil Nadu
The third entry in our list of top 5 best hill stations of the country is known as the “Queen of Hills” and is nestled in the picturesque Nilgiri mountain ranges in the southern part of India. Connect with nature by visiting the Avalanche Bio-Reserve and watch elephants, deers and bisons in the dense forest or go to the Doddabetta peak to see the greenery from the highest point of the region. One of the major attractions is the Nilgiri Mountain Railways steam-powered train which passes at slow speed letting one enjoy the scenic surroundings. It can be reached by air from Coimbatore which is 89 kms away or by road from Bangalore which is about 300 kms far.
4. Nainital, Uttarakhand
Another well-known destination located in the Kumaon hills, which gets its name from the Naini lake and can be reached by road from Delhi which is about 300 kms away. Besides the lake which is popular for boating, the other notable tourist spots are the Naini peak which provides a panoramic view of the lake town, Tiffin Top, High Altitude Zoo, Eco Cave Garden and the Naina Devi temple. There are good shopping options at the Mall Road and the Tibetan Bazaar and the town is famous for a number of prestigious educational institutions located nearby. A hotspot during summer, check MakeMyTrip coupon code today for getting good bargains on hotel bookings.
5. Darjeeling, West Bengal
The Britishers loved this eastern Indian town famous for its tea industry and the Himalayan Railway which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The nearest airport is at Bagdogra and railway station in Siliguri which is about 96 kms far from the town. A big attraction of the place is Tiger Hill which should be visited in the morning to see the majestic view of sun’s first rays falling on the Kanchenjunga mountain in the distance. The other tourist spots are the Himalayan Zoo, Mountaineering Institute, Peace Pagoda and the cable car.
Conclusion
These top 5 best hill stations are just a few of the numerous amazing places of the country and can be visited to experience some moments of peace in the lap of nature and enjoy a memorable vacation.
