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Top 5 Hill Stations in Uttarakhand: HDT

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Written by: Divya Dwivedi
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From being the dream place of newlyweds to being the retreat for escape from city life, Hill Stations are always the first choice of travelers. However there are several hill stations within the boundary of Uttarakhand, and each hill station is unique and distinct from others. To get a smooth trip experience, you need to select the right hill station according to your wish-list and desires. Hence in this blog, we have streamlined the top 5 hill stations in Uttarakhand; which are Mussoorie, Auli, Ranikhet, Almora and Nainital.

Each of these Hill Stations in Uttarakhand gives you a different yet delightful exposure to nature, weather, landscapes and scenic views. In today’s era, all of these are well-developed and offer premium-class services and activities. So Let’s begin unveiling these famous hill stations of Uttarakhand one by one in detail.

1. Mussoorie Hill Station

Introduction

Mussoorie, famous as the Queen of Hills is one of the most popular and significant hill stations in Uttarakhand state. It offers splendid views of the Shiwalik ranges, the alluring Doon Valley, and the enchanting Himalayan mountains in its backdrop. Besides, there is a rich variety of flora and fauna. You can also witness the beautiful Winter Line here in Mussoorie.

Overall, it’s a perfect retreat to the mountains for newlyweds, couples, and nature Lovers.

Views from Gunhill, in Mussoorie which is one of the best Hill Stations in Uttarakhand
Mussoorie is one of the best Hill Stations in Uttarakhand | View from Gun Hill, PC: Pankaj Arya

Location

  • It is located in the Western Garhwal region of Uttarakhand at an elevation of 2,005 m above mean sea level.
  • To be precise, it is in the Dehradun district. 
  • The distance between Mussoorie and Dehradun Railway Station is 30 km.

How to Reach Mussoorie

By Flight

If you choose to go by flight, the nearest airport to Mussoorie is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun. From this airport, Mussoorie is around 57 Km away so either take a taxi or bus to reach your destination Mussoorie. 

By Rail

The Dehradun Railway Station is closest to Mussoorie within 30 to 40 Km distance. From the exit, you can take a rented cab or taxi. 

By Road

From Delhi to Mussoorie, it is about 282 Km. 

There is a well-paved road; so if you’re travelling in your vehicle, you can reach there after driving for 6 to 7 hours. 

Attractions of Mussoorie

Some major Attractions of Mussoorie, that you must visit are:

  • Mall road
  • George Everest House 
  • Landour 
  • Gun Hill 
  • Cloud End
  • Mussoorie Lake
  • Dalai Hills
  • Kempty Falls
  • Lal Tibba Scenic Point

Activities to do in Mussoorie

If you are in Mussoorie, you can indulge yourself in various things to do: 

  • Trekking to nearby spots
  • Enjoying Sunrise
  • Camping 
  • Sightseeing 
  • Picnic 
  • Adventurous activities
  • Zip Swing
  • Rock Climbing 
  • Bungee Jumping 
  • Helicopter Air Safari 
  • Paragliding 

Best time to visit Mussoorie

To enjoy the mild coldness in its atmosphere, you must visit Mussoorie from around February to April. Under the pleasant weather, the Doon Valley remains Cheerful, and the waterfalls remain in their original flow. And, to witness the Snowfall, the peak winter seasons are the best. 

Suitable For

Mussoorie is suitable for each Age group; however, there may be some trekking involved, but that can easily be covered. From family to individual, for trekkers, for Lovers, for married couples, for kids Mussoorie has something for everyone. 

2. Almora Hill Station

Introduction

Almora is a picturesque hill station in the Kumaon division of Uttarakhand state. It is a cantonment town adorned with prominent Shiva temples in the lap of snow-capped mountains and lush valleys. 

This offbeat destination has several hidden jewels in its surroundings that must be visited while in Uttarakhand. Additionally, the place offers a cultural and spiritual sense to its travellers.

View of mountain ranges from Almora Hill Stations of Uttarakhand
View of mountain ranges from Almora Hill Station of Uttarakhand, PC: Aaron Porter

Location 

This hill station is centred on four major tourist destinations of the state. In its North, there is the Bageshwar district. To its south, the Nainital district sits. Towards the east and west, there are Pithoragarh and Ranikhet respectively. It is settled at an elevation of 1642 m. 

How to Reach Almora

By Air

The closest Airport you’ll find near Almora is in Pantnagar which is 116 km away. You can hire a taxi from its exit to the town. 

By Rail

At a distance of 83 km, the nearest Railway Station is in Kathgodam. Private taxis and buses will directly take you to Almora. 

By Road

The Almora district is connected with almost all the major cities of Uttarakhand via road. 

Attractions of Almora 

Some major tourist attractions of Almora are: 

  • Zero point 
  • Bright End Corner 
  • Nanda Devi Eco Park 
  • Maa Nanda Devi Temple 
  • Jageshwar Temple 
  • Kasar Devi Temple 
  • Katarmal Sun Temple 
  • Deer Park 

Activities to do in Almora 

There is so much to do when you are in Almora. Most of the tourists come here to indulge in its soft atmosphere. 

The exciting activities that you can indulge in are:

  • Local Sightseeing 
  • Photography 
  • Trekking 
  • Bird Watching 
  • Mountain Riding 
  • Indulging in Spirituality 
  • Enjoying a Typical Hill Station Vacation 

Best time to visit Almora

The recommended time to visit Almora is throughout the year. However, if you want to relish the most pleasant weather in your journey, you must come in early winter between September to December or early summer from March to May.

Suitable for

The Almora hill station is the most suitable destination for tourists seeking peace and a serene atmosphere. It is a quiet town, so honeymooners and newlyweds can enjoy it here without any hustle.

3. Ranikhet

Introduction

The other alluring hill station of Uttarakhand is Ranikhet. It is elevated at a high altitude of 1,869 m and offers enchanting views of the valley. This hill station is popular as the Queen of Meadows which is crowded almost throughout the year. Amidst the greater Himalayas, Ranikhet is a perfect escape from the 9 to 5 working hours to connect with the raw nature.

Golf Ground in Ranikhet Hill Stations in Uttarakhand
Golf Ground in Ranikhet Hill Station, Uttarakhand, PC: Siddhartha Das on Flickr

Location

In the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, this hilly paradise is located adjacent to Almora hill station, in the Almora district.

How to Reach Ranikhet

By Air

The nearest airport from Ranikhet is in Pantnagar at 111 Km distance. So tourists travelling by aeroplane arrive here. You can then hire a taxi to Ranikhet directly. 

By Rail

The closest Railway Station to Ranikhet is Kathgodam at 77 Km distance. From its exit, you will find taxis or cabs to Ranikhet. 

By Road

There is a motorable road connected to Ranikhet from all the major cities of Uttarakhand and buses are also available. 

Attractions of Ranikhet 

This beautiful hill station has so much to offer, however, some of the destinations around it that shouldn’t be missed are: 

  • Chaubatia Gardens 
  • Jhula Devi Temple
  • Majkhali 
  • Bhalu Dam 
  • Mankameshwar Temple 
  • Ranikhet Golf Course 
  • Rani Jheel
  • Ashiyana Park (Deodar Udyan)

Activities to do in Ranikhet

These are the fun activities in Ranikhet, whicg are worth participating:

  • Golfing 
  • Trekking 
  • Local Sightseeing
  • Boating 
  • Nature Walk 
  • Picnic
  • Photography 

Best time to visit Ranikhet

The best time to visit Ranikhet is from March to June when you will find the most pleasant atmosphere with lush greenery. However, if you want to enjoy the chill of the weather, you must visit in winter.

Suitable for

It is the ideal place for all couples who want to share romanticism with their partners, far from the hustle of urban cities. The newlyweds, honeymooners, and love birds are all welcome here. 

4. Nainital 

Introduction

Nainital, is another famous hill station of Uttarakhand, which is known for it’s charismatic lake. Located in high altitude in Kumaon range of Himalayas, it attracts tourists throughout the year for always the weather being delightful and pleasing. In brief, this quaint town is a treat to the eye. 

The surrounding hills and mountain ranges, the gushing water in the lakes like Naini, and the typical roadside locale market add more authenticity to its charm.

Naini Lake of Nainital Hill Stations in Uttarakhand
Naini Lake of Nainital Hill Station, Uttarakhand PC: Vikaz on Flickr

Location

Nainital hill station is located in the Kumaon region, precisely in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand. It is settled at a high elevation of 2,084m and serves as the gateway to the outer Himalayas.

How to Reach

By Flight

The nearest airport to Nainital is Pantnagar. You will find direct flights here and then you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Nainital. The distance betweem Nainital and Pantnagar Airport is approximately 70 Km. 

By Rail

Kathgodam Railway Station is closest to Nainital at 36 Km distance. On arriving there, you can either take a taxi or book a cab to your destination. 

By Road

There is a well-made road that leads you to Nainital directly and is accessible from all the major cities of Uttarakhand. 

Attractions of Nainital

There are many attractions in and around Nainital that you can visit during your trip:

  • Eco Cave Gardens
  • Naini Lake
  • Naina Devi Temple 
  • Tiffin Top 
  • Mall Road 
  • Lover’s Point 
  • GB Pant Zoo
  • Frog Point 

Activities to do in Nainital

Nainital hosts several activities for its visitors, such as: 

  • Boating 
  • View Watching 
  • Shopping on Mall Road
  • Free Fall
  • Trekking 
  • Hot air Ballooning 
  • Golfing 
  • Cycling Around the lake
  • Camping

Best time to visit Nainital

The most recommended time to visit Nainital is from March to Early May and from September to early November when the weather is cheerful, and greenery is everywhere. In winter, December to February is the perfect time when the place receives heavy snow and turns it into a snow heaven. 

Suitable for

From old age to youth and to kids, from elder couples to newlyweds, Nainital is one of the most appropriate Hill Stations in Uttarakhand to spend your vacations. 

5. Auli

Introduction

Auli, the Hill Station, which is known for its skiing school and for hosting a variety of snow sports, has an unmatched glory with the panoramic and spectacular views it offers. Being one of the best skiing spots, Auli tempts tourists from across the world. It is elevated at the top of 2,909 m and gives access to other mountain ranges and treks.

Views captured from Auli Hill Stations in Uttarakhand
Views captured from Auli Hill Station, Uttarakhand, PC: Kamalesh Nama Viswanatha

Location

  • Auli is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand and is surrounded by the Nanda Devi and Nar Parvat mountains. 
  • There is a ropeway facility that connects Auli to Joshimath town.

How to Reach Auli

By Flight

The Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest Airport to Auli, and the distance between both is about 270 Km. Once you reach your spot, you can take a taxi. 

By Rail

The closest railway station to Auli is in Rishikesh at 255 Km distance. When you arrive there, you can either go by bus or taxi to your final stop, Auli.  

By Road

From all the top cities of Uttarakhand, you can come to Auli via road. You can find multiple government buses and local transports or you can drive your own vehicle as well. 

Attractions of Auli

Auli is a whole destination in itself, however, if you want to visit its nearest tourist spots, here are some: 

  • Jogi Dhara Waterfall 
  • Kagbhusandi Lake 
  • Gorson Bugyal 
  • Auli Artificial Lake 
  • Chattrakund 
  • Pablo Fall
  • Nanda Devi National Park 

Activities to do in Auli

Auli includes several fun activities that  tourists enjoy doing, such as: 

  • Ropeway 
  • Trekking 
  • Skiing 
  • Camping 
  • Go for a nature walk 
  • Visit Nanda Devi National Park 

Best time to visit Auli

The most suitable time to visit Auli is in Winter, from December to February when it receives great snowfall, and the thrill of skiing in the snow is multiplied by double. For relishing the pleasant weather, you can also visit from April to June. 

Suitable for

This charming hill station is a must-visit place for every type of visitor, whether they be newlyweds, Honeymooners, love couples, or young age people. 

Summary

By explaining all the important details like location, how to reach, places to visit and activities to do about these famous Hill Stations of Uttarakhand, we have tried to give you a proper insight. Additionally, you need to know that all of these Hill Stations offer flexible services according to the budget. We mean to say, that you can have a wonderful trip experience at minimal expenditure as well as the most luxurious trip experience at high expenditure. Suiting perfectly to nature lovers, weekend travellers and newlyweds, these top 5 hill stations appear like a mini heaven. All you need to do is pause your work mode, plan the Uttarakhand tour, book the tickets for and give yourself a vacation treat. 

We hope you have found this blog fruitful for deciding the next trip destination. So let us end it here. And we’d appreciate it if you’d share your feedback with us. 

FAQs

Q1. What is the budget estimate for a Hill Station trip in Uttarakhand? 

Ans. If you want to enjoy the trip at minimum expenditure then you should save at least Rs. 7000 per individual. However, the average expenditure would be approximately Rs.10,000 individually.

Q2. What are the essentials to carry in a Uttarakhand trip? 

Ans. You need to carry your important documents (I’d card, ATM Card), first aid kit, toiletries, woolen clothes, power bank, light snacks and so on. 

Q3. Which is the Budget Friendly Hill Station in India for the family? 

Ans. Nainital and Almora are budget-friendly hill stations in India for families. There are several hotels providing accommodation and meals at affordable prices. In addition, to make your trip more budget-friendly, you can plan your trip in the off-season.

Q4. Which Hill Station is easily accessible in India? 

Ans. Mussoorie and Nainital are two of the most easily accessible hill stations. Mussoorie is located at only 30 Km distance from Dehradun Railway Station and Nainital is located at 36 Km distance from Kathgodam Railway Station. So you can reach there in 1 hour from the exit of the nearest railway station.

Q5. In which hill station, there is snowfall? 

Ans. The famous hill stations, Nainital, Mussoorie, and Auli often receive snowfall in the extreme cold season. So to enjoy the snowfall in Hill Stations, you can plan your trip between late November to early March. 

Q6. Which is the best Hill Station for a honeymoon? 

Ans. In Uttarakhand, the Nainital, Ranikhet and Auli are the best cozy hill stations for honeymoon. Along with the perfect weather, there are multiple eye-catching landscapes. 

Q7. Which Hill Station is close to Delhi? 

A7. Nainital and Mussoorie are the ideal and closest hill stations from Delhi. Both of these are located within 35 Km distance from the Railway station, so you can reach there without hustle.

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Divya Dwivedi

Divya Dwivedi

Divya Dwivedi, a nature lover, enjoys exploring Earth's hidden treasures. Her writing reflects her deep love for the beauty of the Himalayas. As a writer, she gets more opportunities to discover and learn about these hidden gems. She hopes to continue following her passion for nature and sharing it through her words.

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