Delhi presents a plethora of hill stations nearby, perfect for quick weekend getaways to break free from the city's hustle and escape the scorching heat. These destinations offer stunning high-altitude views, serene walks through lush forests, and idyllic picnic spots. Here is a list of the top seven hill stations near Delhi for your consideration.
Lansdowne​
Tucked away amidst beautiful oak and lush pine forests, Lansdowne stands out as one of the most scenic hill stations near Delhi. This charming place offers a variety of activities to enjoy. You can soak up the warm Himalayan sun, take a trek through the green forests, have a relaxing picnic, or simply admire the stunning Himalayan vistas. For wildlife enthusiasts, a must-visit spot is the Kalagarh Wildlife Sanctuary, where you might catch a glimpse of majestic tigers.
How to Get There: Reaching Lansdowne is quite straightforward. The most convenient way is to embark on a road trip, which will take you approximately 6 hours and 15 minutes via NH 34. If you prefer traveling by train, please note that there is no direct train route to Lansdowne. You will need to reach Kotdwar, which is about 40 kilometers away from Lansdowne. From there, you can easily hire a taxi to reach Lansdowne, and the journey will take around nine hours. Consider traveling in comfort with a 14-Seater Deluxe Bus, like the Isuzu coach, for a hassle-free and enjoyable trip.
Nainital
Nainital, known for its pleasant weather throughout the year, sits nestled in the foothills of the outer Himalayan ranges. If you are looking for a romantic getaway, make sure to visit Nainital Lake. There, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll by the tranquil blue waters. For breathtaking panoramic views, head to Naina Peak, which happens to be the highest point in Nainital. And if you crave the beauty of snow-covered landscapes, hop on a cable car to "Snow View" for a high-altitude experience that won't disappoint.
How to Get There: Getting to Nainital to relish its stunning vistas is quite simple. You can hit the road and drive there, which will take you about seven hours via NH9. Another convenient option is Bus Hire in Delhi, ensuring a comfortable journey to this picturesque destination.
Kanatal
The natural beauty of Kanatal is simply breathtaking. This peaceful and serene place is like a hidden gem, making it an ideal weekend escape from Delhi's hustle and bustle. The best way to discover Kanatal's charms is by taking leisurely walks through its apple orchards, fruit trees, and pine forests. If you are up for some adventure, consider trekking to Kodia Jungle, nestled amidst vast valleys. It is a paradise for both photographers and nature enthusiasts. In short, Kanatal is the perfect destination to break free from the chaos of urban life.
How to Get There: Reaching the picturesque Kanatal offers you two convenient options: train or road. The closest railway stations that connect with Kanatal are Dehradun and Rishikesh. Once you arrive at either of these stations, you wll find taxis and buses readily available to take you to your resort. If you prefer the road trip experience, you can drive, and the journey will take you approximately eight hours via NH 58.
Naukuchiatal
Naukuchiatal boasts a magnificent lake surrounded by lush mountains, teeming with diverse flora and fauna. It is the perfect escape from Delhi for a weekend retreat. Do not miss a tranquil morning stroll by the lakeside. It is a must-do activity. You can also amp up the excitement with a boat ride across the lake, soaking in panoramic views, or even try your hand at fishing.
For adventure seekers, there are short treks around the lake that promise excitement and exploration. Make sure to visit the Hanuman Temple, designed like an artificial cave, where the spectacular views enhance the holiness of the place.
Auli
Auli, a top-notch ski destination, is renowned for hosting Asia's longest cable car ride. If you are seeking adventure, Auli has a wide range of thrilling activities to offer. The Kauri Pass trek, famous worldwide, takes you through the heart of the Himalayas, amidst magnificent forests, with sunrises and sunsets that are simply breathtaking. You can also visit the world's highest man-made lake, which supplies snow guns for the ski slopes, and indulge in a leisurely romantic stroll along its shores. For those with a spiritual inclination, a visit to the Joshimath Temple dedicated to Lord Badri Visha is a must.
Manali
Nestled amidst lush green valleys and surrounded by towering peaks along the Beas River, Manali is an absolute must-visit destination. It is the perfect place for adventure enthusiasts who can explore rugged terrains, soak in breathtaking mountain biking views, and brave white-water rapids on a thrilling rafting experience. When winter sets in, Manali becomes the ideal spot to cozy up with a good book by the bonfire, providing a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. It is also renowned as one of the best romantic getaways from Delhi.
Dalhousie
Dalhousie, with its vibrant flowers at the foothills and majestic pine trees on the slopes, is a picture-perfect destination. It is the ultimate spot for a weekend getaway, surrounded by stunning snow-capped peaks. Among the top attractions is a visit to Panchpulla, where you can take a leisurely walk and relish panoramic views of water flowing beneath five bridges.
The locals believe that the water here has healing properties. If you are in the mood for some shopping, Dalhousie's Tibetan market is the place to be. It is renowned for its exquisite Kullu shawls, carpets, and Chamba slippers. And when it's time for a break from sightseeing, do not miss out on dining at famous restaurants like Moti Mahal, offering delightful traditional North Indian cuisines.
In conclusion, these hill station getaways near Delhi provide a refreshing escape from the sweltering heat. Whether you prefer picturesque views, tranquil walks, or adventurous treks, these destinations offer it all. To make your journey even more comfortable, consider a Volvo bus Rental in Delhi for a hassle-free and enjoyable trip.