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The hill stations in middle Himalaya offer travellers a perfect escape into nature, adventure, and cultural richness. These destinations are among the best hill stations in India, attracting visitors with spectacular landscapes, pleasant weather, and unique attractions. Whether you’re seeking adventure, historical sites, or local experiences, these Indian hill stations provide everything you need for a memorable trip. In this blog, we explore ten must-visit hill stations near the middle Himalayas at a distance from major cities, along with essential travel details to plan your visit.
Top 10 Must-Visit Hill Stations In Middle Himalayas
Discover the top enchanting hill stations in the Middle Himalayas, where breathtaking landscapes, adventure, and culture await every traveler.
1. Dharamshala
Photo: Piyush Bansal / Unsplash
Dharamshala, home to the Dalai Lama, is an ideal Indian hill station for those interested in Tibetan culture, monasteries, and spectacular landscapes. McLeod Ganj, the upper part of Dharamshala, has vibrant markets and cafes serving delicious Tibetan food. The Tsuglagkhang Monastery is a peaceful place where you can learn about Buddhism. Whether you want to explore monasteries, go on a trek, or simply enjoy the cool weather, Dharamshala is one of the best hill stations in India to experience nature and culture together.
Major Attractions: Masroor Temples, Gyuto Monastery, Bhagsu Waterfall, Kangra Fort
Ideal Trip Duration: 2-4 days
Nearest Airport: Kangra Airport (13 km)
2. Shimla
Photo: ShashankSharma2511 / Wikimedia Commons
Shimla is one of the most visited hill stations in the middle Himalaya, known for its colonial history, lively streets, and scenic mountain views. A ride on the Kalka-Shimla toy train is a must, offering a slow yet fascinating journey through tunnels and bridges. The bustling Mall Road has shops, cafés, and street food stalls, making it perfect for a relaxed stroll. Adventure lovers can visit Kufri for horse riding and skiing in winter. With a mix of history, adventure, and shopping, Shimla is one of the best hill stations in India for all kinds of travellers.
Major Attractions: The Ridge, Jakhoo Temple, Lakkar Bazaar, Christ Church, Tattapani
Ideal Trip Duration: 2-3 days
Nearest Airport: Chandigarh Airport
3. Nainital
Photo: Sanjoy / Wikimedia Commons
Nainital is a classic Indian hill station famous for its charming lake, boating activities, and cable car rides. The heart of the town is Naini Lake, where you can rent a boat and soak in the views of the surrounding hills. Take a walk along Mall Road to enjoy local street food and shopping. If you love adventure, a trek to Tiffin Top offers panoramic views of the valley. Families, couples, and solo travellers find Nainital an ideal destination among the best hill stations in India, thanks to its combination of nature, adventure, and relaxation.
Major Attractions: Sattal, Naina Devi Temple, Snow View Point, Pashan Devi Temple:
Ideal Trip Duration: 2-3 days
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport
4. Mussoorie
Photo: omkar k / Wikimedia Commons
Mussoorie, known as the “Queen of Hills,” is one of the most visited hill stations in middle Himalaya. A short drive from Dehradun, it offers stunning viewpoints, lively markets, and adventure sports. Take the ropeway to Gun Hill for a great view of the Himalayas, or head to Kempty Falls and enjoy a range of water sports, including swimming, boating, and fishing. Camel’s Back Road is perfect for an evening walk with sunset views. Whether you’re looking for a weekend escape or a long stay, Mussoorie remains a top choice among Indian hill stations.
Major Attractions: Lal Tibba, Company Garden, George Everest House, Bhatta Falls
Ideal Trip Duration: 2-3 days
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
5. Manali
Photo: Shameer Thajudeen / Wikimedia Commons
Manali is one of the most famous hill stations in middle Himalaya, drawing adventure seekers and nature lovers. If you enjoy snow activities, visit Rohtang Pass or Solang Valley for skiing and snowboarding in winter. Hidimba Temple, set in a cedar forest, is a historical site worth visiting. Old Manali is a great place for backpackers, with its charming cafes and vibrant nightlife. Whether you’re looking for adventure or a relaxed getaway, Manali offers something for everyone, making it one of the best hill stations in India.
Major Attractions: Nehru Kund, Manu Temple, Jogini Falls, Bhrigu Lake
Ideal Trip Duration: 3-4 days
Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport
6. Almora
Photo: Gaurav Kumar / Wikimedia Commons
Almora is a less crowded Indian hill station, perfect for travellers who prefer quiet surroundings and cultural experiences. The town is known for its ancient temples, like Kasar Devi Temple, which has also been visited by famous philosophers and writers. Almora is also known for its local sweets, like Bal Mithai, which you must try. If you’re searching for hill stations near the middle Himalayas with a distance of 90 km from Nainital, Almora is a great choice for a peaceful and culturally rich holiday.
Major Attractions: Chitai Golu Devta Temple, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, Maa Nanda Devi Temple, Katamal Sun Temple
Ideal Trip Duration: 2-3 days
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport
7. Kasauli
Photo: Harvinder Chandigarh / Wikimedia Commons
Kasauli is a small yet charming Indian hill station known for its colonial buildings, clean air, and quiet surroundings. It is perfect for a quick weekend trip from Chandigarh or Delhi. Walk to Monkey Point for great views of the landscapes or visit Christ Church, a colonial-era architecture. The Gilbert Trail is a beautiful walking path, ideal for those who love nature walks. As one of the best hill stations in India, Kasauli is a great place to slow down, relax, and enjoy simple pleasures away from the noise of city life.
Major Attractions: Sanjeevni Hanuman Temple, Kasauli Club, Sunset Point, Manki Point
Ideal Trip Duration: 1-2 days
Nearest Airport: Chandigarh Airport
8. Ranikhet
Photo: Harshit SR / Wikimedia Commons
Ranikhet, meaning “Queen’s Meadow,” is an offbeat Indian hill station with beautiful open spaces and old temples. It is home to the Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum, which gives visitors a glimpse into military history. The town also has apple orchards and thick green fields, perfect for long walks. If you’re looking for hill stations near the middle Himalayas with a distance of 55 km from Almora, Ranikhet is an excellent option for those who prefer quiet, pretty getaways with a touch of history.
Major Attractions: Jhula Devi Temple, Chaubatia Gardens, Mankameshwar Temple, Ashiyana Park
Ideal Trip Duration: 2-3 days
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport
9. Chamba
Photo: Bhattnitesh29 / Wikimedia Commons
Chamba is a historical Indian hill station located in the state of Himachal Pradesh, known for its centuries-old temples and local festivals. Chamba offers a glimpse into Himachal’s rich heritage, unlike more commercialised destinations. With its detailed architectural carvings, the Lakshmi Narayan Temple is a must-visit. The nearby Chamera Lake is a great spot for boating and photography. Whether you want to explore history or enjoy mountain views, Chamba is a hidden gem among the best hill stations in India.
Major Attractions: Chamunda Devi Temple, Bhuri Singh Museum, Champavati Temple, Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary
Ideal Trip Duration: 2-3 days
Nearest Airport: Kangra Airport
10. Bhimtal
Photo: Abhimanyu7793 / Wikimedia Commons
Bhimtal is a peaceful alternative to Nainital, making it one of the best hill stations in India for those who prefer less crowded places. The Bhimtal Lake is the main attraction, with a small island in the centre that houses an aquarium. The town also has walking trails, a butterfly research centre, and ancient temples. If you’re looking for an Indian hill station with a relaxed atmosphere and scenic beauty, Bhimtal is a great option to spend your vacation among the hill stations situated in the middle Himalayas.
Major Attractions: Butterfly Research Centre, Victoria Dam, Hanuman Garhi, Hidimba Parvat
Ideal Trip Duration: 2-3 days
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (55 km)
The hill stations in middle Himalaya offer a diverse travel experience. These destinations are among the best hill stations in India, attracting visitors with lovely landscapes, pleasant weather, and unique attractions. Whether you prefer the bustling streets of Shimla or the quiet charm of Almora, these best hill stations in India cater to all kinds of travellers. Plan your trip with TripXL and explore the wonders of the Himalayas today.
Cover Photo: Angshu Purkait / Unspalsh
