Top 12 Hill Stations Near Lucknow For A Scenic Retreat

The hill stations near Lucknow are endowed with exceptional natural beauty as they are situated at the base of the magnificent Himalayan range offering a welcome respite from the frenzy of the city life. Such places have lovely views, pretty lakes, and bountiful history. Revisiting Nainital, Chitrakoot, Mukteshwar, and several other places is interesting as these different spots offer varying reasons whether seeking adventure or calmness. Nevertheless, these regions have some distinguishing features that make each of them appealing as a holiday spot.

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Top 12 Hill Stations Near Lucknow

Some of the best hill stations near Lucknow for an escape into nature and tranquillity.

1. Chitrakoot

A picture of Chitrakoot Hills–a sacred site with lush greenery and sacred temples.

Photo: Biswarup Ganguly / Wikimedia Commons

Chitrakoot is a sacred site in Uttar Pradesh that has become quite popular and nearest hill station from lucknow. It is tourists due to its scenic beauty and the religious significance it possesses. It is located in a greenish hilly area that has beautiful sights, especially from Kamadgiri hill. The city is enriched with temples and is considered a pilgrimage spot because it has connections to the ancient epic known as the Ramayana. Chitrakoot however most importantly does not only dwell in temples, it’s also a region for eco lovers which makes it ideal for a vacation because of its picturesque nature.

Distance From Lucknow: 210 km
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Major Attractions: Ram Ghat, Kamadgiri Hill, Gupt Godavari Caves, Bharat Milap Temple, Hanuman Dhara

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Chitrakoot

2. Bhimtal

A picture of Bhimtal Lake surrounded by hills, one of the best hill stations near Lucknow.

Photo: Kafaldiary / Wikimedia Commons

Bhimtal is a calm and composed town, with beautiful lakes in its vicinity and a lot of greenery around. The Bhimtal Lake is also bigger than the Nainital Lake and provides facilities for boating as well as a quiet place to rest. The guests can visit a fascinating aquarium located in the middle of the lake on the island. The place also serves as a base for several treks in the nearby hilly areas, which is why it is also an ideal location for people looking for some thrill in their vacation. This hill stations near Lucknow with distance around 330 Km from the capital of Uttar Pradesh.

Distance From Lucknow: 330 km
Best Time To Visit: March to June
Major Attractions: Bhimtal Lake, Bhimeshwar Mahadev Temple, Victoria Dam, Butterfly Research Centre, Hanuman Garhi

3. Naukuchiatal

A picture of Naukuchiatal Lake, Uttarakhand that is surrounded by lush green hills.

Photo: SHUVADIP / Wikimedia Commons

Residing in the Kumaon belt, Naukuchiatal is a beautiful lake town with a twist, as it has a very remarkable nine-cornered-shaped lake. it is one of the best best hill stations near Lucknow to explore. The still calm waters allow for boating and paddleboarding, while the nearby hills provide majestic sights. This location is heaven for all nature and thrill seekers with perfect views and provisions for paragliding and trekking services. The greenery is filled with rich wildlife, which makes it convenient for animal-gazing lovers. Naukuchiatal offers a tranquil escape from the noisy, polluted, and fast-paced city life.

Distance From Lucknow: 335 km
Best Time To Visit: March to June
Major Attractions: Naukuchiatal Lake, Bhimeshwar Temple (nearby), Hanuman Temple, Paragliding Point, nature walking trails

4. Nainital

An image of Naini Lake with boats, one of the best hill stations near Lucknow.

Photo: Slyronit / Wikimedia Commons

The region of Nainital earns the name of ‘Lake District of India’ as it abounds in lakes. It is well known for the picturesque Naini Lake and the surrounding hills. The tourists can enjoy a leisurely boating on the placid lakes or take a walk down the Mall Road, a wooden pavement dotted with eating places and shops. The town is beautifully set with views all around; there are also trekking options for peaks like Naina Peak, which is quite close. Nainital is also known for its rich cultural heritage, as there are many old temples built during the colonial era.

Distance From Lucknow: 320 km
Best Time To Visit: March to June
Major Attractions: Naini Lake, Naina Devi Temple, Snow View Point, Tiffin Top, The Mall Road

5. Pangot

An image of a scenic view of Pangot with lush forests and Himalayan backdrop.

Photo: Ajay Kumar Jana / Unsplash

Pangot is a pretty little village situated not far from Nainital, India, and is famous for its rich bird life. As to this place, it is a paradise for all as there are myriad sorts of birds found in the locations making it a case of heaven for nature lovers. Addressing the calm atmosphere and picturesque landscape, Pangot is for people who prefer solitude and want to get closer to the natural surroundings, which makes this place the best Lucknow hill station for a peaceful holiday.

Distance From Lucknow: 335 km
Best Time To Visit: March to June
Major Attractions: Kilbury Bird Sanctuary, Naina Peak (nearby), Pangot village trails, Snow View Point (nearby), Himalayan viewpoints

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Pangot

6. Mukteshwar

A picture of Mukteshwar with Himalayan peaks, one of the best hill stations near Lucknow.

Photo: Ashwini Chaudhary(Monty) / Unsplash

Mukteshwar is known for its natural beauty and it beats almost all the other places around it. The location is at a great elevation hence offering the sight of the snow-capped hills and green valleys far across. Mukteshwar Dham which is an old temple too sees a great influx of pilgrims and archeologists alike. The range of tourist activities caters to everybody, even the adventurous type who gets to take part in such activities like trekking and rock climbing in the region, or the ones who are just content to close their eyes and breathe in that peaceful atmosphere.

Distance From Lucknow: 360 km
Best Time To Visit: March to June
Major Attractions: Mukteshwar Temple, Chauli Ki Jali, Bhalu Gaad Waterfalls, Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Mukteshwar Dham

7. Ranikhet

A picture of Ranikhet with lush green landscapes and a Himalayan backdrop.

Photo: Aditi Jain / Unsplash Commons

The name Ranikhet, which means Queen’s Meadow, is a hilly place situated in its serenity of green scenery. Surrounded by the fogs of pine trees and apple orchards, It has a splendid view of the snow-clad peaks of the Himalayas. Tourists can stroll in the delightful local market, and go for lengthy scenic walks, and historical attractions like Rani Jheel and temples can also be opted for. To all those who wish to do more, many hill stations with distance, have their beauty and different things to offer.

Distance From Lucknow: 350 km
Best Time To Visit: March to June
Major Attractions: Chaubatia Gardens, Upat Golf Course, Jhula Devi Temple, Bhalu Dam, Sunset Point

8. Almora

A picture of Almora with traditional architecture and mountains in the background.

Photo: Travelling Slacker / Wikimedia Commons

Almora is a picturesque hill station, famous for its exceptional history as well as beautiful mountains. Dense forests surround the town and provide calmness, enabling one to relax. People can visit the old temples, the local crafts, and also the delightful kumaoni food. The interesting building designs and the busy streets make it even more fascinating. Almora is also surrounded by many trekking routes, which are an added advantage for adventure lovers. History and nature are beautifully intertwined in Almora, which is why this spot is one of the most recommended.

Distance From Lucknow: 355 km
Best Time To Visit: March to June,
Major Attractions: Kasar Devi Temple, Chitai Golu Devta Temple, Bright End Corner, Zero Point, Deer Park

9. Lansdowne

Historic St. Mary’s Church in Lansdowne surrounded by greenery and a peaceful setting.

Photo: Sanyam Bahga / Wikimedia Commons

Lansdowne, a peaceful hill station in Uttarakhand, is perfect for travelers seeking a quiet escape from city life. Surrounded by dense oak and pine forests, it offers attractions like Bhulla Lake, Tip-in-Top Viewpoint, and St. Mary’s Church, ideal for nature walks and serene sightseeing. Often chosen by tourists exploring places near Lucknow for weekend, Lansdowne provides a refreshing atmosphere, cozy stays, and stunning views, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and unwinding amidst untouched natural beauty.

Best Time To Visit: March to June
Major Attractions: Bhulla Lake, Tip-in-Top Viewpoint, St. Mary’s Church, Garhwali Museum, Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Lansdowne

10. Pauri Garhwal

Scenic view of Pauri Garhwal with lush hills, scattered houses, and Himalayan backdrop.

Photo: Sunil dhoundiyal / Wikimedia Commons

Pauri Garhwal, a serene hill station in Uttarakhand, offers travelers breathtaking Himalayan views and a tranquil atmosphere, making it perfect for a relaxing getaway. Surrounded by dense forests and snow-capped peaks, it features attractions like Kandolia Park, Khirsu, and Danda Nagraja Temple, ideal for nature walks and photography. Frequently included in guides for Places to visit near Lucknow, Pauri Garhwal is a refreshing escape for those seeking peace, natural beauty, and scenic landscapes away from the city’s hustle.

Best Time To Visit: September to November
Major Attractions: Kandolia Park, Khirsu, Danda Nagraja Temple, Chaukhamba Viewpoint, Kyunkaleshwar Mahadev Temple

11. Kausani

Panoramic Himalayan view of Trisul and Nanda Devi peaks from Kausani in Uttarakhand.

Photo: Ekabhishek / Wikimedia Commons

Kausani, often called the “Switzerland of India,” is a serene hill station ideal for those seeking mountain tranquility and panoramic Himalayan views. Surrounded by tea gardens and pine forests, it offers attractions like Anasakti Ashram, Rudradhari Falls, and Baijnath Temple. Its calm setting makes it perfect for stargazing, nature walks, and photography. Popular among travelers exploring hill stations near Lucknow for weekend, Kausani provides a refreshing escape with cool weather and stunning landscapes, away from the busy plains of Uttar Pradesh.

Best Time To Visit: March to June
Major Attractions: Anasakti Ashram, Rudradhari Falls and Caves, Baijnath Temple, Kausani Tea Estate, Pinnath

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Kausani & Around

12. Mussoorie

Panoramic view of Mussoorie town nestled in green hills with distant mountain backdrop—hill stations near lucknow

Photo: Gannu03 / Wikimedia Commons

Mussoorie, famously known as the “Queen of Hills,” is a popular escape for travelers seeking cool weather and scenic charm. Surrounded by lush forests and breathtaking Himalayan views, it offers attractions like Kempty Falls, Gun Hill, and Camel’s Back Road, perfect for families and couples alike. Often considered among the nearest hill stations to Lucknow, Mussoorie combines natural beauty with vibrant shopping streets and cozy cafes, making it an ideal destination for a refreshing mountain getaway year-round.

Best Time To Visit: March to June
Major Attractions: Kempty Falls, Gun Hill, Camel’s Back Road, Lal Tibba, The Mall Road

The hill stations near Lucknow offer different kinds of experiences that revitalize the minimums within one. The calm waters of Nainital, and the sacred affairs in Chitrakoot—these places are ideal for short vacations. While moving around such beautiful places, enjoy the beauty of nature and take back loads of memories. It is prudent to consider the perfect times during the seasons for a scenic vacation. So plan a trip with TripXL and enjoy the magic of these fascinating hill stations.

Cover Photo: Shivansh Singh / Unsplash

12 Hill Stations Near Lucknow For A Scenic Retreat