Pathankot in Punjab is a beautiful city, sharing a border with Pakistan on the west side at the foothills of Dalhousie and Kangra. Pathankot is situated at the midpoint of Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab and Himachal Pradesh. Historically, the city was considered as the capital of Nurpur state of the Pathani Rajputs. Pathankot is best known for its lush green charms of paddy fields and its rich historical past, making it an often visited tourist spot. Pathankot railway station is well connected with many major railway stations of the country. The city is also renowned for the beautiful hill stations situated near the city. If you are planning a trip to Pathankot, here’s a quick guide for you detailing about the world-famous hill stations near Pathankot.
14 Best Hill Stations Near Pathankot
These are some of the best hill stations near Pathankot which will definitely give you that perfect space to relax amidst the beauty of nature. Take a look!
- Dharamshala: For All Nature Enthusiasts
- Patnitop: For Snowfall Lovers
- Palampur: The Tea Capital Of North India
- Kullu: The Sacred Spot
- Manali: The Most-Visited One
- Kasauli: For Eye-Catching View
- Shimla: Himachal’s Stunning Capital
- Kufri: For A Tranquil Escape
- Chail: The Trekking Spot
- Leh: The Perfect Getaway
- Mussoorie: The Queen Of Hills
- Srinagar: The Paradisical Land
- Khajjiar: The Gulmarg Of Himachal
- Pahalgam: The Serene Hill Station
1. Dharamshala: For All Nature Enthusiasts
The term Dharamsala literally holds the meaning of “rest house for spiritual pilgrims” in Hindi. Dharamshala is one of the most frequented spot on this list of hill stations near Pathankot. The place produces teas like black tea, green tea, white tea, oolong tea and Masala chai as it is a great location for tea plantations. Dharamsala or Bhagsu is located in Himachal Pradesh’s Kangra district. The city has been picked as one of the hundred smart cities under the Smart Cities Mission, by the Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi.
Dharamshala is the nearest hill station from Pathankot. The place was the residence place of Dalai Lama, the Tibetan monk in exile. The city is divided in an upper and lower division, the lower division is the Dharamsala town, and the upper-division is known as Mcleodganj. The town is filled with bungalows, cantonments, churches, monasteries, and has a mesmerizing scenic view. The place does not fail to impress its tourists as it is one of the most tranquil destinations of North India, which has a mixture of both natural scenic beauty and culture.
Places to Stay:
- The Pavilion
- The Divine Hima
- Welcome Heritage Grace Hotel
- The Quartz
- Hotel Inclove
Things To Do:
- Paragliding
- Try Tibetan Food
- Explore McLeodganj
- Trekking
Ideal Duration: 3 Nights/4 Days
Distance From Pathankot: 85 km
How To Visit: Dharamsala does not have an airport or a railway station of its own, but the city is well connected by roads to Delhi and other North Indian cities.
Best Known For: The city is renowned in the world for its distinctive blend of the Kangra and Tibetan culture
Best time to visit: March – June
Attractions To See: Bhagsu falls, Gyuto Monastery, War Memorial, Tea gardens, Jwalamukhi Devi Temple
Must Read: 12 Homestays In Dharamshala: Experience Peace, Comfort And Great Hospitality
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2. Patnitop: For Snowfall Lovers
With the majestic River Chenab flowing along Patnitop, this beautiful hill station is located in between the Shivalik belts in the Himalayas, on the way from Udhampur to Srinagar. Snow covers the entire place during the cold months often obstructing the roads. As beautiful as its views, the hill station is also home to rich cultures and hundreds of years old temples. Fun activities like skiing, paragliding and will ensure that your body’s Dopamine levels are always at the top. This little fairyland in the district of Udhampur in Jammu has wonderful views of the Himalayas.
Local people are very friendly and generous with the tourists. A short trip around the town will fill you up with all you need to know, the kind of dresses they wear, the types of food they eat, the different religions and much more about Patnitop. With lots of places to visit and so many adventures to take, Patnitop will be worth it.
Places to Stay:
- Hotel Trinetra Resorts
- Akas Resort Patnitop
- Poonch House
- Vardaan Hotels Patnitop
- Travel Tales Eco Stay
Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days
Distance from Pathankot: 102 km
How To Visit: The Patnitop is well-connected by the road. Jammu, Srinagar, Pathankot, Katra are just a few miles away from this hilltop, all of which have buses or taxis that can help reach your destination. While the nearest railway station is in Udhampur, the nearest airport is in Jammu. As a whole, you need not worry about reaching Patnitop.
Best Known For: Patnitop is very famous for its paragliding
Best time to visit: November- July
Attractions To See: Padora Enclave, Sudh Mahadev temple, Nature Walks, Naag Mandir, Skiing, Paragliding
Suggested Read: 10 Amazing Places To Visit Near Pathankot That You Must Explore On Your Next Vacay
3. Palampur: The Tea Capital Of North India
The city obtains its name from the term ‘Pulum’ which stands for “heaps of water.” Also known as ‘The Tea Capital of North India,’ Palampur is a noteworthy spot for tea germination. Palampur is sprinkled with the persuasive artistry exhibitions, paddy fields, and ancient temples. The city of Palampur is settled away in the north-west district of Himachal Pradesh. Encompassed by a number of slants of emerald-green tea plantations, this city is set against the background of the commanding Dhauladhar ranges. Palampur carries the inheritance of being a tea domain right from the eighteenth century when the British ruled India. From that time forward, Palampur has achieved global acclaim for its tea plantation. The wide-open town is layered with different zones of tea domains. From the aesthetic Andretta and Taragarh Palace to the awesome Sourabh Van Vihar, there are a thousand shades of green immersed here.
Places to Stay:
- RS Sarovar Portico
- WelcomHeritage Taragarh Palace
- Hotel Orchid Resort
- The Bliss
- Beyond Stay Fresco Hotel
Things To Do:
- Go Paragliding
- Naam Art Gallery: Appreciate Art
- Tea Plantations: Explore The Green Land
- Neugal Khad: Enjoy A Picnic
Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days
Distance from Pathankot: 105 km
How to visit: The town is connected with the railways and roads since it is connected with many major cities. The closest railroad station to the city is in Pathankot, and the nearest tight check rail route station is in Maranda which is 5 km away. Transports and taxicabs are effectively accessible for driving between goals.
Best known for: The city is famous for its splendid views of the Dhauladhar ranges
Best time to visit: March – June
Things To Do In Palampur: Tea gardens, City Shopping, Pottery, Andretta, Baijnath Temple, Neugal Khad, Tashi Jong Monastery
Suggested Read: 13 Places To Visit In Pathankot For A Blissful Holiday Experience
4. Kullu: The Sacred Spot
It seems that God created the land of Kullu, making it the beauty it is! Some areas in Kullu have a height of around 1000m whereas some areas are as high as 6000m. Kullu is one of the best hill stations near Pathankot for all the honeymooners. Along with geographical diversity, this mystic valley of Gods also has an impressive range of flora and fauna, making it a place nobody would ever miss from visiting.
Kullu also holds a number of sacred religious places garnished up in its courtyard. It has all that takes to be a perfect weekend getaway. The snow-clad majestic mountains, a beautiful flowing river, thick forest fully covered from deodar and pine, stretch of moors that are full of snow for one half of the year, and green grass and colourful flowers, make this place a scene impossible to forget.
Places to Stay:
- Vivaan Resorts Kullu
- Hotel Aroma Classic
- The Shalangco Villa
- Hotel Kullu Valley
- Hotel, The Nest
Things To Do:
- Trekking Around Prashar Lake
- Rafting In River Beas
- Paragliding In Kullu Hills
- Camping Under The Stars
Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days
Distance from Pathankot: 161 km
Best known for: The city is famous for its temples, vast and beautiful majestic hills which are covered in Pine and Deodar forests.
Best time to visit: June- October
Attractions To See: Bhuntar, Naggar, Manikaran, Chandrakhani Pass, Pandoh Dam, Malana
Suggested Read: 7 Offbeat Places To Visit Near Kullu If You’ve Already Covered Every Inch of This Town
5. Manali: The Most-Visited One
Manali is India’s most popular Hill station nestled between Pir Panjal and the Dhauladhar mountain ranges. Manali is situated at a distance of 270 km to the North of Shimla at the altitude 2050 m in the valley of Beas River valley. The lush green terrain with deodar – cedar trees and alpine vegetation, the grand meadows, the fragrance of fresh pine and deodar trailing in the air, with jaw-dropping views, Manali is an eternal beauty. This city is a scenic beauty blessed with magnificent snow-capped mountains, glaciers and raging rivers along the valleys.
Places to Stay:
- Ra Hotels
- Fab Express Shami Inn
- Fab Hotel Whispering Wood
- Sarthak Regency
- The Whispering Inn
Things To Do:
- Waterfalls: Listen To The Music
- Rohtang Pass: Go On A Bike Ride
- Zorbing: For Some Fun and Adventure
- Manu Market: Shop Your Heart Out
Ideal Duration: 3 Nights/4 Days
Distance from Pathankot: 167 km
Best known for: Manali is known for its shiny gompas or Buddhist monasteries.
Best time to visit: October- February
Attractions To See: Hadimba Temple, Beas Kund Trek, Old Manali, Manali Sanctuary
Suggested Read: 13 Best Places In Manali For Honeymoon Couples Visiting The Hill Station
Planning your holiday but confused about where to go? These travel stories help you find your best trip ever!
6. Kasauli: For Eye-Catching View
Kasauli is one of the most famous hill stations in the country, known for its incredibly breathtaking and eye-catching views, surrounded by the Himalayan Ranges. It is situated in the Solan town in Himachal Pradesh. It was established as a British hill station during colonial times. The beautiful Victorian Style buildings built by the Britishers are a beautiful architectural example in Kasauli. The dense forests of Kasauli are home to some fascinating and endangered species of wild animals, whereas the forest itself is dense with pine and cedar trees.
This serene little hill station serves tourists with the lovely orchards and buildings dating from the middle of the 19th Century till the forests of Himalayan Oak and Horse Chestnut that can be viewed from Monkey Point. It is a not to be missed for the nature lovers as well as the trekkers coming from all over India, lavishing the trail to Gilbert Nature, enjoying the lush greenery with fresh air and watching some rare birds fly amidst the trees.
Places to Stay:
- Kasauli Residency
- Forest Ville Hotel & Resort
- Kasauli Exotica
- Kasauli Regency
- Hotel Alasia
Things To Do:
- Trekking Tours – For Adventure Buffs
- Tibetan Food – Lip Smacking Good
- Kasauli Tibetan Market – For The Shopaholics
- Toy Train Ride – A Unique Experience
Ideal Duration: 1 Night 2 Days
Distance from Pathankot: 203 km
Best known for: The city is known for various activities like trekking, shopping, and even paragliding
Best time to visit: March – June
Attractions To See: Baptist Church, Mall Road, Timber Trail, Monkey Point, Sunset Point and Lover’s Lane, Sri Baba Balak Nath Temple
Suggested Read: Kasauli In December: When the City Transforms Itself Into Heaven
7. Shimla: Himachal’s Stunning Capital
Shimla is another most popular hill stations in north India. Located at a height of 2200 m, set amidst the verdant array of mountains, mystical woods and serene atmosphere. Shimla is a beautiful getaway spot to enjoy, relax and rejuvenate. Shimla is also known as the summer capital of India, With its natural beauty, picturesque views, a wide array of adventure activities and colonial-style buildings expressing the story of the British era, Shimla is a heaven for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts and photographers.
Places to Stay:
- Hotel Willow Bank
- Clarkes Hotel
- Hotel Marina
- Radisson Hotel
- The Oberoi Cecil
Things To Do:
- Toy Train Ride
- Rafting At Tattapani
- Jakhu Temple: Trek To The Top
- Cycling: A Relaxing Ride
Ideal Duration: 3 Nights/4 Days
Distance from Pathankot: 204 km
Best known for: This city is well known for its Victorian-style architecture
Best time to visit: March – June
Attractions To See: Lakkar Bazar, Mashobra, Chail
Suggested Read: 16 Homestays In Shimla That Offer A Comfy Stay In The Hills
8. Kufri: For A Tranquil Escape
The term Kufri comes from a descriptive word ‘Kufr’ which means “lake”. Kufri is a small hill station which falls in the Shimla district at a distance of 20km. It has a population of 1,148. The town is mostly covered with snow. Being the highest peak among the surrounding areas, the city conducts several trekking activities. Historically, Kufri was a part of Nepal. It was given to the British colonials as a part of the Sugauli Treaty. Kufri has a bungalow, named Chini Bungalow, which is very popular for its statues and architecture.
The town has a very refreshing atmosphere. The city is beyond perfect for a summer getaway as it will never fail to impress the tourists with its pleasing weather and stunning scenic view.
Places to Stay:
- Hotel Willow Bank
- Clarkes Hotel
- Hotel Ekant
- Hotel Grand Sunset
- Hail Himalayas
Things To Do:
- Encountering Wildlife
- Amazing Trekking
- Exciting Snow Trail Camping
- Elated Yak Ride
Ideal Duration: 1 Day
Distance from Pathankot: 212 km
Best known for: The city is famous for its trekking and hiking trails.
Best time to visit: April – November
Attractions To See: Mahasau Park, Indira Tourist Park, Kufri Fun World
Suggested Read: Kufri In December: Your Little Guide To A Winter Holiday
9. Chail: The Trekking Spot
Also the summer capital of the princely province of Patiala, Chail is a hill station that lies around 63 km away from Shimla. Chail is settled in the Himachal Pradesh’s Shivalik district and spread over the three hillocks – Sadh Tiba, Rajgarh and Pandewa. Located amid the scented Chir pine and monstrous deodars, this charming hill station offers a luminous and all-encompassing outlook on the surrounding countryside. Its plentiful greenery, stunning view on the mountains and natural elegance make it a perfect destination to visit.
The spot is perfect for trekking and angling. Chail, along with Shimla and Kufri, is also famous as the Golden Triangle of Himachal Pradesh. It is a beautiful hill station that is free from the large groups that crowd Shimla. Hence it enables the voyagers to enjoy the magnificence of the spot in its relative harmony.
Places to Stay:
- Hotel Grand Sunset
- Hotel Ekant
- Deventure Hotel
- Hotel Comfort Inn
- Rocky Knob
Things To Do:
- Camping
- Rock climbing
- Trek from Chail to Gaura and Chail to Jhajja
- Kufri horse riding
Ideal Duration: 1 Day
Distance from Pathankot: 215 km
Best known for: known for the world’s highest cricket ground and the heritage hotel
Best time to visit: March-May
Attractions To See: Cricket Ground, Kali Temple, Horse riding, Chail Bird Sanctuary, Sidh Baba ka Mandir, City Shopping
Suggested Read: 10 Places To Visit In Chail For A Perfect Hill Town Retreat
10. Leh: The Perfect Getaway
If you need a break from all your hustles and want to be an adventurer, then this is your perfect getaway. Leh is not for the weak-hearted; this place is an untamed beauty and loves to surprise you at every turn of the road. So expect the unexpected and enjoy the excitement throughout the journey, for you will fall in love with this place.
Places to Stay:
- The Grand Dragon Ladakh
- The Zen Ladakh
- Gomang Boutique Hotel
- Hotel Ladakh Palace
- Hotel Singge Palace
Ideal Duration: 6 Nights/7 Days
Distance from Pathankot: 299 km
Best known for: The city is famous Pashmina shawl.
Best time to visit: June- September
Things To Do: WHITE WATER RAFTING IN ZANSKAR LAKE, Nubra Valley, Magnetic Hill, Pangong Lake, Hall of Fame, Leh Palace
Suggested Read: Visit Mukteshwar Temple In Pathankot For A Spiritual Journey
11. Mussoorie: The Queen Of Hills
Often renowned as the ‘queen of hills’ Mussoorie promises you an unforgettable experience of the actual beauty of mother nature. Mussoorie is located in Uttarakhand. The city is a perfect retreat with its pretty green hills blending with the Himalayan ranges adorned with snow, pleasant climate, jaw-dropping landscape and beryl sky spilling love. The place got its name from a famous Masur shrub which is settled widely in the area.
Mussoorie is a popular spot and is fancied by plenty of newlyweds making it a perfect destination for a honeymoon. If you are looking to ignite awe within your eternal souls, then wait no more, book your ticket to this paradise called Mussoorie.
Places to Stay:
- The Golden Palms Hotel & Spa
- Hotel Brentwood
- Hotel Drive Inn
- Hotel Padmini Niwas
- Hotel Silver Rock
Things To Do:
- Trekking
- Hiking
- Rock Climbing
- Paragliding
Ideal Duration: 6 Nights/7 Days
Distance from Pathankot: 315 km
Best known for: known for its scenic beauty, idyllic atmosphere and is visited by hundreds of tourists from various parts of the world.
Best time to visit: September- June
Attractions To See: Gun hills, Jharpani Waterfalls, Jwala Devi Temple, Camel’s Back Road
Suggested Read: 27 Amazing Places To Visit In Mussoorie For The Perfect Summer Getaway
12. Srinagar: The Paradisical Land
This heaven on earth rests in the valley of the great Himalayas, near the banks of the Jhelum River. This place is decorated so fiercely by nature that its beauty has been admired since ancient times. Srinagar is one of the most popular hill stations near Pathankot. It is known for the Mughal gardens, the unique Pashmina products, the memorable Shikara rides through Dal Lake and the breathtaking landscape that one confronts in every direction. The clean air, the snow capped hills, the lush green views and the refreshing streams can all enchant you into a trance, making a mark on your soul.
Places to Stay:
- The Lalit Grand Palace
- Vivanta by Taj
- Mughal Palace Houseboats
- Heevan Resorts
- Royal Dandoo Palace of Houseboats
Things To Do:
- Seek Blessings At Shankaracharya Temple
- Trek To The Famous Points
- Shop Like A Local
- Go Rafting At Sonmarg
Ideal Duration: 4 Nights/5 Days
Distance from Pathankot: 298 km
Best known for: most famous for its charming houseboats which sit peacefully on the calm waters of Dal Lake
Best time to visit: April- October
Attractions To See: Wular Lake, Baramulla, Chilar Park, Khanqah of Shah Hamdan, Jamia Masjid
13. Khajjiar: The Gulmarg Of Himachal
Khajjiar is a serene hill station situated in Himachal Pradesh. If you are wondering which one on this list of hill stations near Pathankot is the least crowded then Khajjiar is the answer. Khajjiar is the most peaceful hill station in Himachal Pradesh and you can head to this hill station for taking a break from you busy city life. You will find impeccable cottages in Khajjiar and if you want to make your vacation a memorable one then you must stay at a cottage.
Places to Stay:
- The Devdar Hotel
- Hotel Mini Swiss
- Hotel Puri
- Hotel Khajjiar Regency
- Hotel Royal Residency
Things To Do:
- Zorbing
- Jungle Safari, Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary
- Trekking
- Handicraft Shopping
Ideal Duration: 1 Day
Distance from Pathankot: 95 km
Best known for: This hill station is known for its golf course
Best time to visit: January – June
Attractions To See: Khajjiar Lake, Golf course
14. Pahalgam: The Serene Hill Station
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Pahalgam is one of the most serene hill stations near Pathankot and is the most frequented spot in Kashmir. Whether you are an adventure enthusiast or a nature lover, Pahalgam won’t disappoint you. If you are an adventure freak then you can indulge in trekking, rafting, and sledding in this hill station. If you are a shopaholic then you can shop for shawls and if you are a foodie then you can relish the local food. All the nature lovers can relax amidst the calm surroundings and all those who are traveling with their family they can visit the famous temples.
Places to Stay:
- Pahalgam Hotel
- Welcome Hotel Pine And Peak
- Hotel Heevan
- Hotel Royal Hilton
- Paradise Inn
Things To Do:
- Sightseeing
- Camping
- River Rafting
- Trout Fishing
Ideal Duration: 1 Night/2 Days
Distance from Pathankot: 316 km
Best known for: This hill station is known for temples, hiking, and trekking trails.
Best time to visit: March – November
Attractions To See: Mamal Temple, Sheshnag Lake, Lidder Amusement Park
Further Read: Top 14 Adventure Sports In Himachal Pradesh That Will Give You That Adrenaline Rush
These are some of the best hill stations near Pathankot which will definitely give you that holiday vibe you have been searching for. From nature’s finest views to admire to finding some places to enjoy a laid back vacation, there is much more to do than you can think. So now when you plan a vacation to Himachal Pradesh, make sure to not miss out on these hill stations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hill Stations Near Pathankot
Is Pathankot a hilly area?
Pathankot is a city situated in the Punjab state of India. Pathankot district is at the meeting point of the three northern states of India: Punjab, Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh. Due to its location, Pathankot serves as a travel hub for those three northern states. Is Pathankot safe?
Pathankot is, by far, a very safe place. Violent crime is almost never heard of, although it’s essential to keep an eye on your belongings in public, as petty theft can occur at railway stations. What happened at Pathankot?
The 2016 Pathankot terrorist attack was committed on 2 January 2016 by a heavily armed group which attacked the Pathankot Air Force Station. How far is Pathankot from Pakistan border?
The distance from Pathankot to Pakistan is 145 km as the crow flies. Pathankot’s proximity to Pakistan Border makes it a vital security base. How many km Pathankot to Amritsar?
The distance between Pathankot to Amritsar is 107 km by road, 99 km by Rails and the aerial distance is 97 km. Is there snowfall in Dharamshala?
Yes. Dharamshala experiences snowfall during December and January. If you love snow, Dharamshala can be a fantastic place to visit to watch the annual snowfall.
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