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Setting out on a pilgrimage to Vaishno Devi is on many people’s bucket list. Located amidst the Trikuta Hills, the beauty and spiritual energy in this religious spot attract millions of tourists every year. But, beyond the temple, the hill stations near Vaishno Devi are also brimming with hidden gems waiting to be explored. Each hill station surrounding Vaishno Devi boasts a unique character, promising a delightful blend of nature’s bounty, adventurous opportunities, and cultural immersion. You can extend your trip to Vaishno Devi by visiting some of the popular areas nearby for an enchanting escape.
Top 10 Hill Stations Near Vaishno Devi
The hill stations near Vaishno Devi are picturesque and lush and offer a respite from the hustle of city life.
1. Patnitop
Photo: Its sumit sharma / Wikimedia Commons
Patnitop, aptly named “The Meadow of Paradise,” is a haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Lush meadows carpeted with wildflowers offer a tranquil escape, while the majestic Himalayas provide a dramatic backdrop. Popular adventure activities include paragliding and trekking to Natha Top, a scenic trail along a cascading stream. Don’t miss the exhilarating ride on the Patnitop Gondola, offering panoramic views of the valley below. There are laidback tourist spots like Patnitop Park, which is perfect if you want to relax and rejuvenate.
Distance From Vaishno Devi: 85.9 km
Major Attractions: Nathatop, Patnitop Gondola, Patnitop Circular Road, Naag Mandir
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Patnitop
2. Gulmarg
Photo: Kundra95 / Wikimedia Commons
Famed “The Meadow of Flowers,” Gulmarg is a paradise for skiers, especially during winters, when the slopes are blanketed in pristine snow. Gondola rides take visitors to breathtaking heights, offering unparalleled vistas of snow-capped peaks. If you are visiting during the peak summer or spring months, Gulmarg transforms into a golfer’s paradise with its world-renowned golf course, the highest green in Asia. You can also trek your way up to Alpather Lake or Apharwat Peak following the Gondola ride. Meadows are filled with blooming wildflowers, adding to the beauty and charm of Gulmarg.
Distance From Vaishno Devi: 271.3 km
Major Attractions: Gulmarg Gondola, Apharwat Peak, Gulmarg Golf Course, Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve
3. Dharamshala
Dharamshala, the spiritual abode of the Dalai Lama, is a tapestry of Tibetan culture and breathtaking Himalayan scenery. McLeod Ganj, the upper part of Dharamshala, is a haven for spiritual seekers. You can start exploring the hill station by visiting the Tsuglagkhang Complex, the Dalai Lama’s residence. Due to the Tibetan influence in Dharamshala, there are many Buddhist monasteries here. Exploring them one by one exemplifies why this is one of the best hill stations to visit near Vaishno Devi. Further, a trek through Dhauladhar ranges adds to the thrill of the experience. Visiting the Tibetan Institute of Fine Arts is also important to explore the cultural influence.
Distance From Vaishno Devi: 232.1 km
Major Attractions: Tsuglagkhang Complex, Mcleod Ganj, Tibetan Institute of Fine Arts, Dhauladhar ranges
Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Patnitop
4. Chamba
Photo: Piyush Tripathi / Wikimedia Commons
Chamba, nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, is one of the hill stations near Vaishno Devi, which boasts a rich history dating back several centuries. Start your trip exploring the magnificent architecture of the Bhuri Singh Museum, showcasing the region’s cultural heritage. Hike to the Sach Pass, a high-altitude mountain pass offering breathtaking views, or visit the Akhand Chandi Palace, known for its intricate carvings. You can’t refrain from visiting the bustling main town where all the markets are. From trying out some of the local delicacies and street foods, there are local shops selling trinkets and souvenirs you can consider purchasing.
Distance From Vaishno Devi: 241.5 km
Major Attractions: Bhuri Singh Museum, Sach Pass, Akhand Chandi Palace
5. Kullu
Photo: UnpetitproleX / Wikimedia Commons
Among all the popular hill stations near Vaishno Devi, Kullu deserves a spot in the top five in the list. Located along the banks of the Beas River, this place is an adventurer’s paradise. From white-water rafting on the gushing rapids to trekking through the scenic Parvati Valley, Kullu offers a plethora of adrenaline-pumping activities. The highlight of your trip would be visiting the Great Himalayan National Park where you can spot endemic and endangered wildlife and birds. You can also explore the nearby quaint villages like Kasol and Manali for added fun.
Distance From Vaishno Devi: 235.5 km
Major Attractions: White-water rafting on the Beas River, Parvati Valley trek, Great Himalayan National Park, Manali, Kasol
Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Kashmir
6. Sonamarg
Photo: Jyoti Chaurasia / Wikimedia Commons
Known for its lush green meadows that remain carpeted with wildflowers during the spring, Sonamarg is another one of the hill stations near Vaishno Devi. The highlight of your trip to Sonamarg lies in the trek up to the Thajiwas Glacier. The frigid cold temperature and the dense scenic trails leading up to the glacier are a unique experience. In winter, Sonamarg transforms into a skier’s paradise, offering pristine slopes for an unforgettable experience. If needed, you can also plan a trip to Ladakh from Sonamarg since accessibility via the roads is a lot easier from here.
Distance From Vaishno Devi: 299.5 km
Major Attractions: Thajiwas Glacier, Pony rides through meadows, Trout fishing in Sindh River, Skiing in winter
7. Chail
Photo: RATIKA / Wikimedia Commons
Chail, nestled amidst verdant forests, offers a tranquil retreat for couples and nature enthusiasts. For cricket enthusiasts, don’t miss out on witnessing the Chail Cricket Ground while you are there. It is the highest cricket ground in the world at an elevation of 2444 m. You can also visit the Chadwick Falls, a cascading waterfall nestled amidst lush greenery. For a touch of history, explore the Chail Palace, a former summer residence of the Patiala royal family, now converted into a heritage hotel. There are also religious and pilgrimage sites around Chail, including Sidh Baba ka Mandir, Kali Tibba Temple, Gurudwara Sahib Chail, etc.
Distance From Vaishno Devi: 514 km
Major Attractions: Cricket Ground in Chail, Chadwick Falls, Hiking trails, Chail Palace
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Kashmir In February
8. Leh
Photo: Always urs0509 / Wikimedia Commons
Leh, nestled in the Ladakh region, is a starkly beautiful landscape unlike any other and is one of the most scenic hill stations near Vaishno Devi with a distance of 668 km. Explore the majestic peaks of the Himalayas, witness the serene Pangong Tso Lake, or embark on a challenging trek through the Nubra Valley. The native tribes also add to the beauty, tradition and history of the hill station. You can stop to admire the stunning natural beauty and landscapes or find respite in some of the popular monasteries like Thikse Monastery, which rests atop a hill. Don’t miss out on exploring the Leh Palace as well.
Distance From Vaishno Devi: 638.3 km
Major Attractions: Pangong Tso Lake, Nubra Valley trek, Thikse Monastery, Leh Palace
9. Kasauli
Photo: Suman Wadhwa / Wikimedia Commons
Kasauli, one of the hill stations near Vaishno Devi, offers a charming escape with a colonial touch. Explore the Mall Road, a pedestrian-only zone lined with shops and cafes, or visit Monkey Point, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. For an adventure expedition, make your way through the Gilbert trail. You can also travel up to Manki Point for a panoramic view of the entire town. You can’t miss out on exploring and witnessing the iconic Christ Church or the popular Hanuman Temple.
Distance From Vaishno Devi: 421.5 km
Major Attractions: Mall Road, Monkey Point, Christ Church
Suggested Read: Pahalgam Trekking
10. Kufri
Kufri offers stunning views and a plethora of activities. You can hike through the Mahasu Peak trek, a challenging yet rewarding trail, or visit the Himalayan Nature Park, a haven for diverse flora and fauna. For a touch of history, explore the Mahasu Temple, a sacred Hindu shrine. When combined with Chail and Shimla, the three of them together are called the “Golden Triangle of Himachal Pradesh”. You can explore the nearby Kufri Zoo or try your hands at skiing during the peak winter months.
Distance From Vaishno Devi: 464.2 km
Major Attractions: Mahasu Peak trek, Himalayan Nature Park, Horse riding, Mahasu Temple
The beauty surrounding Vaishno Devi extends far beyond the holy shrine. Each hill station beckons with its unique charm, offering a tapestry of experiences for every traveller. From the adrenaline rush of adventure sports to the serenity of spiritual sanctuaries, these escapes promise to rejuvenate you. So, visit one of the hill stations near Vaishno Devi and secure the best deals with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Soumyajitp / Wikimedia Commons
