Less Crowded Hill Stations in North India: Peaceful Getaways

There are several less crowded hill stations in North India where people can enjoy their time without large tourist groups. These places have mountains, small villages, and local traditions untouched by heavy tourism. Some towns have old temples, wooden houses, and open fields, while others have high-altitude roads and trekking routes. The weather in these places stays pleasant, making them good for short trips. Unlike busy locations, these towns provide a quieter space for visitors. Below is a list of hill stations where people can explore nature, history, and local life without much disturbance.

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Top 10 Less Crowded Hill Stations In North India

Escape the crowds and explore these quiet hill stations in North India for a mesmerising getaway in this scenic abode.

1. Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh

An image of a cross-section of a green valley in Ziro, part of famous hill stations in North India.

Photo: Arunachal2007 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Ziro is located in Arunachal Pradesh and is home to the Apatani tribe, which is known for its cultural practices and traditional farming methods. The people of Ziro live in houses made of bamboo, and the women of the Apatani tribe are known for their facial tattoos and nose plugs. The town has rice fields, small rivers, and wooden bridges. The Ziro Music Festival takes place every September, bringing music lovers from different places. Ziro is also a proposed UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the less crowded hill stations in North India which makes it unique.

Major Attractions: Meghna Cave Temple, Talley Valley Wildlife Sanctuary
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Lilabari Airport (100 km)

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Ziro

2. Mashobra, Himachal Pradesh

An image showing Mashobra, a location known as one of the best hill stations in North India.

Photo: Supreet / Wikimedia Commons

Mashobra is a quiet place near Shimla. It is surrounded by oak and deodar trees, and small villages can be seen along the roads. The town is connected to Shimla by the old Hindustan-Tibet Road, built in the 19th century. Unlike Shimla, Mashobra does not get many visitors, making it one of the best hill stations in North India for those looking for less crowded places. The area has small shops, a few local eateries, and open spaces where people take walks and enjoy fresh air. In summer, apple orchards in Mashobra are full of fruit.

Major Attractions: Craignano Nature Park, Mahasu Devta Temple, Reserve Forest Sanctuary
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 days
Nearest Airport: Shimla Airport (30 km)

3. Munsiyari, Uttarakhand

Image of Panchchuli Peak viewed from Munsiyari, one of the highest hill stations in North India.

Photo: Aniket Mandish / Unspalsh / Image For Representation Only

Munsiyari is located at 2,298 metres and is among the highest hill stations in North India. It is known for its trekking routes and views of the Himalayan mountains. The weather is cold for most of the year, and snow is common in winter. Locals depend on farming and tourism for their livelihood. Many visitors come to Munsiyari to trek to places like the Namik Glacier. The town has a few hotels and small restaurants that serve local food. It remains less crowded because reaching the nearest big city takes a long time.

Major Attractions: Birthi Falls, Khaliya Top Trek, Nanda Devi Temple
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 4 days
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (249 km)

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Munsiyari

4. Dharamkot, Himachal Pradesh

An image showing Dharamkot in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, India, with hillside views.

Photo: Rignam Wangkhang / Wikimedia Commons

Dharamkot is a small village above McLeodganj in Himachal Pradesh. It is known for its meditation centres and slow lifestyle. Many visitors come to Dharamkot to learn about Tibetan culture and participate in yoga and meditation. The village has small cafés, where visitors can sit and enjoy simple meals. Unlike McLeodganj, Dharamkot does not get large crowds. It is also the starting point for the Triund Trek, which takes people to a high viewpoint. Many international visitors stay in Dharamkot for weeks to learn meditation and live a simple life.

Major Attractions: Tushita Meditation Centre, Gallu Devi Temple, Bhagsu Waterfall
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Gaggal Airport (20 km)

5. Kaza, Himachal Pradesh

An image showing the Spiti River winding through the rugged landscape of Kaza, Himachal Pradesh.

Photo: Bharatkaistha / Wikimedia Commons

Kaza is located in Spiti Valley and is 3,650 metres above sea level. It is one of the highest hill stations in North India and has rough roads, making it difficult to reach. The town has small shops, Buddhist monasteries, and guesthouses for travellers. Most buildings are stone and mud, and the area has very little vegetation. People visit Kaza to see ancient monasteries and villages that follow Tibetan traditions. Due to its location, Kaza remains one of the least crowded hill stations in North India.

Major Attractions: Key Monastery, Kibber Village,
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 5 days
Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport (250 km)

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Kaza

6. Aru Valley, Jammu & Kashmir

An image showing Aru Valley in Jammu & Kashmir, surrounded by hills and open green spaces.

Photo: Nandanupadhyay / Wikimedia Commons

Aru Valley is one of the best hill stations in North India, offering a quiet escape from busy tourist spots. Located near Pahalgam, this small village has wooden houses, green fields, and tall mountains in the background. Visitors can walk along the trails, camp by the river, or enjoy the fresh air. It is also the starting point for treks to Kolahoi Glacier and Sonmarg. Unlike Pahalgam, Aru Valley sees fewer visitors, making it a great choice for those who prefer less crowded places with natural beauty and outdoor activities.

Major Attractions: Betaab Valley, Baisaran Hills, Lidder River
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Srinagar Airport (102 km)

7. Nahan, Himachal Pradesh

An image showing Rani Tal Shiv Temple in Nahan, Himachal Pradesh, with a pond in front.

Photo: Harvinder Chandigarh / Wikimedia Commons

Nahan is a quiet getaway in the Shivalik Range of the Himalayas. Known as one of the least crowded hill stations in North India, this small town has temples, lakes, and an old fort that adds to its charm. Unlike the busy hill stations, Nahan sees fewer tourists, making it a great place for a relaxed visit. The weather stays cool throughout the year, and the hills turn green during the monsoon. The local markets sell handicrafts and traditional Himachali items. Visitors often walk around the town, exploring its small streets and open spaces.

Major Attractions: Renuka Lake, Jaitak Fort, Churdhar Peak
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 days
Nearest Airport: Chandigarh Airport (85 km)

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Nahan

8. Kibber, Himachal Pradesh

An image showing Kibber village in Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh, with houses on a hillside.

Photo: Ksuryawanshi / Wikimedia Commons

Another unique North India hill station is Kibber, situated at 4,205 metres above sea level. This high-altitude village has stone and mud houses, and its roads are dusty. The people here mainly raise yaks and sheep, and their way of life is simple. Kibber is also part of a wildlife sanctuary where rare animals like the snow leopard can be spotted in winter. Unlike the more famous hill stations, it remains quiet and secluded. The village offers a chance to see a different side of the Himalayas, away from crowded tourist spots.

Major Attractions: Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary, Chicham Bridge
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport (245 km)

9. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh

An image showing Tawang Monastery in Arunachal Pradesh, with its large structure on a hillside

Photo: Arkadipta Chandra / Wikimedia Commons

Tawang is a remote town in Arunachal Pradesh, sitting at 3,048 metres. It is home to one of India’s largest Buddhist monasteries, Tawang Monastery, which many visitors visit. The town has rivers, valleys, and snow-covered peaks in winter. Due to its location near the India-China border, travellers need an Inner Line Permit to visit. The roads to Tawang are steep and winding, but the journey is worth it. Unlike crowded hill stations, Tawang remains quiet, making it a good choice for those exploring a unique mountain town.

Major Attractions: Sela Pass, Nuranang Falls
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 4 days
Nearest Airport: Tezpur Airport (325 km)

10. Landour, Uttarakhand

An image showing Woodstock School in Landour Cantonment, with its historic buildings and campus.

Photo: Paul Hamilton / Wikimedia Commons

Landour is a quiet town near Mussoorie, known for its old buildings and connection to famous writer Ruskin Bond. Unlike Mussoorie, it does not get many tourists, making it an ideal place for a tranquil getaway. The town has small cafés, quaint bookshops, and narrow roads shaded by tall trees. A stroll through Landour gives a glimpse of colonial-era history. Some cafés serve homemade cakes and coffee, which visitors enjoy while enjoying fresh mountain air. It is a good choice for a simple, less crowded hill station.

Major Attractions: Lal Tibba, Char Dukan, St. Paul’s Church
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 days
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport (60 km)

11. Barot Valley, Himachal Pradesh

A stunning view of Barot Valley, one of the less crowded hill stations in North India.

Photo: Harvinder Chandigarh / Wikimedia Commons

Tucked away in the lap of the Dhauladhar range, Barot Valley in Himachal Pradesh is a hidden gem and one of the underrated hill stations in North India. It is helmed with lush pine forests, untouched trails, and quaint charm. Barot is the perfect offbeat destination for nature lovers, trekkers, and anyone seeking solitude in the hills. From fishing in clear rivers to hiking through deodar forests, there’s something for everyone here. The top attractions of Barot Valley include Uhl River, Barot Hydel Project, Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary, and more.’

Major Attractions: Uhl River, Barot Trout Fish Farm, and Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary
Nearest Airport: Kangra Airport (110 km)

12. Jibhi, Himachal Pradesh

A mesmerising view of the Sarosar lake and temple in Jibhi, Himachal Pradesh.

Photo: Phototraveller1 / Wikimedia Commons

Jibhi, nestled in the Tirthan Valley of Himachal Pradesh, is one of the picturesque hill stations in North India. Surrounded by lush green forests, sparkling streams, and majestic mountains, Jibhi offers a tranquil getaway in the embrace of nature. Here, you can sit on the peaceful banks of Serolsar Lake, marvel at the Raghupur Fort, take in the splendid beauty of Jibhi Waterfall, and more. Offering tranquillity and natural beauty, Jibhi is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.

Major Attractions: Jibhi Waterfall, Chehni Kothi, and Serolsar Lake
Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport (50 km)

13. Shoja, Himachal Pradesh

A breathtaking view of Shoja, one of the less crowded hill stations in North India.

Photo: Flavius Floare / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Shoja, a quaint little hamlet, is a perfect spot for a weekend getaway. A paradise for nature lovers and avian enthusiasts, it is one of the least crowded hill stations in India. Filled with verdant valleys and breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and trees, long stretches of oak and deodar forests, Shoja’s natural beauty is captivating. Here, you can enjoy enchanting nature walks, picnics, and catch glimpses of a variety of birds. Some of the major attractions of Shoja include the Great Himalayan National Park, Jalori Pass, Serolsar Lake, Raghupur Fort, and Waterfall Point.

Major Attractions: Jalori Pass, Serolsar Lake, and Raghupur Fort Trek
Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport (55 km)

14. Chitkul, Himachal Pradesh

An awe-inspiring view of a temple in Chitkul, Himachal Pradesh, decked with snow.

Photo: Kaiho / Wikimedia Commons

Nestled amidst the lush landscapes of Kinnaur district in Himachal Pradesh, Chitkul is an idyllic destination blessed wth nature’s unrivalled beauty. It is decked with towering peaks, emerald-green valleys, terraced fields, and glistening rivers. In addition to natural beauty, Chitkul also offers a glimpse of the rich cultural heritage of the region. A haven for trekkers, they can embark on the famed Kinnaur Kailash Parikrama trek. An excellent destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts, Chitkul is one of the best places to visit in North India.

Major Attractions: Chitkul Village, Baspa River, and Mathi Temple
Nearest Airport: Shimla Airport (245 km)

15. Kalpa, Himachal Pradesh

Photo: Carlos Adampol Galindo / Wikimedia Commons

Kalpa, a charming abode nestled in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, is one of the less crowded hill stations in Himachal. If you wish to indulge in trekking in North India, you should explore this scenic abode. Studded with snow-capped mountains, lush apple orchards, ancient temples, and serene monasteries, Kalpa boasts of mesmerising natural beauty. It is an ideal destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and devotees alike. Some of the top attractions of Kalpa include Kamru Fort, Sapni Fort, Kothi, Narayan-Nagini Temple, Hu-Bu-Lan-Kar Monastery, and more.

Major Attractions: Kinnaur Kailash Mountain, Suicide Point, and Roghi Village
Nearest Airport: Shimla Airport (267 km)

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Kalpa

Many people now look for less crowded hill stations in North India where they can travel more flexibly. These places have old buildings, local markets, and open landscapes without many visitors. People can walk around, visit nearby places, and learn about local traditions. Plan your trip with TripXL and explore these hidden locations at your own pace.

Cover Photo: Rohit Dey / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Hidden Less Crowded Hill Stations In North India: Let’s Escape The Crowds