Uttarakhand- the land of dramatic natural wonders that change their shades with every passing day is a crowd-pleaser. From Jim Corbett housing diverse wildlife to Rishikesh attracting spiritual seekers, this destination is truly a marvel. The hill station is not only home to some of the most magnificent terrains but is also surrounded by as many and more. Forts, temples, trekking trails, stunning architectural structures, and a lot more is hidden right under its nose. Hence, all the other hill stations near Uttarakhand never fail to impress. Check out the top destinations that one can visit once they are done exploring the nooks of Uttarakhand!
Hill Stations Near Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand is a destination that is home to and surrounded by some of the most magnificent marvels of mother nature. Offering a respite from the monotony of life, these hill stations near Uttarakhand are your perfect answer.
1. Chitkul
Sitting in the proximity of the Indo-China border, Chitkul is a quaint village in Himachal Pradesh that reeks of tranquillity. The best thing about Chitkul is the local people residing in this village that have a charm of their own. Believing in both Hinduism and Buddhism, the locals are humble, calm, and quiet; justifying the ancient mythology. Taking one to a different dimension altogether, Chitkul is filled with magnificent and picturesque landscapes. Lakes, forest-clad hills, narrow roads, tiny houses, humble residents, and misty weather combine to make Chitkul heaven on earth.
Ideal Duration: 1 day
Distance from Uttarakhand: 595 km
Tourist attractions: Mathi Temple, Charang Chitkul Pass, Baspa River, Chitkul Fort
Best time to visit: May to October
Places to stay: Zostel Chitkul, Hotel Kalpa Deshang, Echor – The Alpine Crest
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2. Solan
A charming hill station lying on the foothills of the majestic Himalayas, Solan has its floors covered with Deodar forests. Surrounded by mystic mountains on all four sides, this hill station acts as a perfect nature retreat for those who seek solitude. Solan is loaded with jaw-dropping scenic views which is exactly what makes it one of the most rejuvenating and revitalising hill stations near Uttarakhand. The best part about this destination is the extensive number of places to visit and the vast number of experiences hidden in its lap!
Ideal Duration: 2 days
Distance from Uttarakhand: 386.8 km
Tourist attractions: Mohan Park, Shoolini, Jatoli Temple, Karol Tibba
Best time to visit: February to May; August to November
Places to stay: Neo Vedic Resort, Surya Vilas Luxury Spa & Resort, Ambusha Resort, Poonam Pine Resorts
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3. Kalpa
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With the Kinner Kailash mountain forming the majestic backdrop, Kalpa is a city sitting in the fairytale land of the Kinnaur district in Himachal Pradesh. This mountain village is famed for its views that seem right out of a storybook with sky-high mountains and the Sutlej river flowing alongside forming the landscapes. The whole town has its floors covered with apple orchards and lush green jungles which makes this destination nothing less than magical.
Ideal Duration: 1 day
Distance from Uttarakhand: 574 km
Tourist attractions: Kinnaur Kailash, Baspa Valley, Kamru Fort, Jorkanden
Best time to visit: October to May
Places to stay: The Monk Hotel by Livingstone, Hotel KALPA, Dormico’s Hotel Mount View
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4. Sangla
The most picturesque valleys of Kinnaur district in Himachal Pradesh, Sangla is a hill station that is an idyllic getaway from the bustling and humdrum of city life. The never-ending slopes of stunning mountains, canopies of dense green forests, and snow-clad peaks make this hill station truly wonderful. Famed for the Baspa River, Sangla gives travellers an opportunity to be a part of thrilling experiences including trout fishing. The nearby forts and temples in this village are simply a cherry on top.
Ideal Duration: 2 days
Distance from Uttarakhand: 572 km
Tourist attractions: Sangla Meadow, Bering Nag Temple, Kamru Fort, Batseri Village
Best time to visit: March to June; September and December
Places to stay: Hotel Batseri Sangla, Abode The Clouds, Kinner Retreat
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5. Kullu
Offering a perfect contrast to its hippie neighbourhood, Kullu is a calm and quiet valley sitting in the heart of Beas River and the grand Himalayas. With its floors being covered by towering Pine trees and Deodar forests, Kullu was once referred to as the ‘Valley of Gods’ by virtue of being home to Lord Raghunath Ji. For those travelers who seek to get an insight into the rich cultural heritage and all the traditional customs of this area of the mountain village, Kullu is the perfect spot. Apart from this, this region witnesses an impeccable amount of footfall due to the thrilling activities offered here including rafting, paragliding, mountaineering, and trekking.
Ideal Duration: 2 days
Distance from Uttarakhand: 652.6 km
Tourist attractions: Raghunath Temple, Bijli Mahadev, The Great Himalayan National Park, Rupi Palace
Best time to visit: March to June
Places to stay: Himalayan Kothi Kais, Royal Mansion, Hotel Sarla Regency
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6. Kasol
In the hippie neighbourhood of Kullu that we just talked about, Kasol has emerged as a popular destination, especially among the younger crowds, in recent times. Majorly appealing to all the backpackers and solo travelers, Kasol is one of the most relaxing getaways in this country. Kasol is a serene, quaint village that is a feast for the eyes and soul. Sitting on the way to Manikaran, this destination is full of some amazing cafes and shopping streets. The Bohemian vibes of Kasol are what make it one of the best hill stations near Uttarakhand.
Ideal Duration: 1-2 days
Distance from Uttarakhand: 673.3 Km
Tourist attractions: Grahan Street, Gurudwara Shri Manikaran Sahib, Hot Water Spring, Chalal Trek Trail
Best time to visit: October to June
Places to stay: The Himalayan Village, Baragarh Resort, Devdhar Hilltop Cottages, Apple Valley Resort, Kasol Heights
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7. Shimla
Reeking of colonial vibes from various corners, Shimla is the capital city of Himachal Pradesh and the most popular hill station residing near Uttarakhand. The long streets, British architecture, urban vibes, maze-like alleys, and the busy markets of Shimla make this hill station a place that never fails to impress a traveller. Most people travel to Shimla when they seek some time off from the hustle and bustle of city life. The freshness and exciting aura of Shimla are truly unmatchable. Some of the best places to visit in Shimla are Jakhoo Hill, Scandal Point, Chadwick Falls, Mall Road, and more.
Ideal Duration: 3 days
Distance from Uttarakhand: 433.5 km
Tourist attractions: Mall Road, Jakhoo, The Ridge, Christ Church
Best time to visit: November to February
Places to stay: Snow Valley Resorts Shimla, Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Shimla, The Oberoi Cecil
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8. Mashobra
Sitting at a height of 7700 feet above sea level, Mashobra is often referred to as the quieter and much calmer version of Shimla. Home to vast areas of lush greens and dense forests, Mashobra is one of those charming hill stations that is home to unspoiled and uncommercialised nature, thus giving travellers an opportunity to embrace something true and pure. A getaway or a staycation in this peaceful destination is all that one needs when planning to head to the hills to get energized and de-stressed. This destination happens to be a perfect spot for those long and lazy escapes.
Ideal Duration: April to June
Distance from Uttarakhand: 443.7 Km
Tourist attractions: Reserve Forest Sanctuary, Craignano, WildFlower Hall Hotel, Retreat Building
Best time to visit: September to April
Places to stay: The Plum Cove, The Apricot, Mountain View Mashbora, Mountain View Mashbora, Attic Room
9. Nainital
Ideally positioned in Kuamon region, Nainital sits at an elevation of around 6561 ft from above sea level. Previously known as the British hill station, this one of the best hill stations in Uttarakhand is wrapped around glistening Naini Lake where vacationers can enjoy boating and witness the mesmerizing views of the town. The destination makes a perfect pick for couples as well as families. Apart from boating on Naini Lake, you can explore the Nainital Zoo, explore several cafes, and also enjoy retail therapy.
Ideal Duration: 2 Days
Distance from Uttarakhand: 225 km
Tourist attractions: Naini Lake, Naina Devi Temple, Nainital Zoo
Best time to visit: March to June
Places to stay: Lake Side Inn Nainital, Cygnett Resort Mountain Breeze, Hotel Channi Raja
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Hill stations near Uttarakhand leave no stone unturned to impress a traveller. Ranging from solo travellers and family groups to friend circles and couple getaways, these hill stations cater to the tastes of each and every kind. The lush green forests, pristine lakes, mountain peaks, and the refreshing aura of these destinations are what make them ideal. Do not forget to mark your favourites when planning a trip to any of these hill stations once done with your vacation in Uttarakhand!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Hill Stations Near Uttarakhand
What are some of the best hill stations near Uttarakhand?
Some of the best and most popular hill stations near Uttarakhand are Shimla, Kullu, Solan, Mashobra, Chitkul, Mandi, Kufri, and many more. How far is Shimla from Uttarakhand?
Shimla is located around 219 kilometres from Uttarakhand. This distance can easily be covered by either making use of public transport such as buses or taxis, or by taking a train to reach the destination. What is the best time to visit Uttarakhand?
The best time to visit Uttarakhand is either during the spring season or during the autumn season. The months from March to April or September to October are considered the best to take a trip to Uttarakhand. What is the best time for rafting in Kullu-Manali?
The best time to go for rafting in Kullu Manali is anytime between June and July. These are the months when the currents of the river are perfect to engage in watersports. What are some places to visit in Uttarakhand?
There is no dearth of beautiful places to visit in Uttarakhand. Some of the must-visit destinations of Uttarakhand are Haridwar, Lansdowne, Mussoorie, Rishikesh, Almora, Auli, Nainital, Bir, and the most stunning – Valley of Flowers. What are some tourist attractions in Shimla?
Shimla is the capital city of Himachal Pradesh that has plenty to offer including The Ridge, Summer Hill, Christ Church, Mall Rod, Jakhoo Hill, and the toy train ride. How far is Mashobra from Uttarakhand?
Mashobra is around 443 kilometers away from Uttarakhand. There are various public modes of transport available to cover this distance such as buses, trains, and taxis. One can also make use of the private vehicle to go to Mashobra from Uttarakhand. What can one do in Kasol?
There are numerous things that one can do in Kasol such as indulging in Israeli food, trekking to Kheerganga, strolling around Parvati river, take a holy dip in the waters of Manikaran, and many such experiences.
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A writer by choice, a photographer by passion, a seasonal sailor preferably monsoons and a pilot when the wind is just right! When not in the city, I’m often found chasing sunrises in the mountains or sunsets at the beaches!
