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Udhampur, a charming town nestled amidst the foothills of the Himalayas, serves as a gateway to a captivating tapestry of hill stations, each boasting unique experiences that take care of varying tourist interests. Even for tourists looking for a laidback and relaxing vacation, these hill stations near Udhampur offer that respite one might be looking for. If you are looking for an escape with the hill stations, sit back to sort and shortlist some of the best places to visit. Nature enthusiasts will find themselves enthralled by verdant meadows, gushing waterfalls, and serene lakes.
Top 10 Hill Stations Near Udhampur
Whether you seek solace in nature’s embrace or crave adrenaline-pumping adventures, the hill stations near Udhampur have something for everyone.
1. Patnitop
Photo: Sumit Sharma / Wikimedia Commons
A haven for adventure and nature lovers, Patnitop, fondly called the Mini Switzerland of India, enthrals with its verdant meadows and breathtaking view of the Shivalik Hills. Glide through the beautiful blue and clear skies with a paragliding adventure. Hike through lush forests or embark on a trek to the enthralling Shiva Garh. For the tourists visiting this hill station during winter, embrace the various adventure activities that await you. From skiing to snowboarding and ATV rides, there are a lot of experiences to witness.
Major Attractions: Adventure activities, Shiva Garh, and Nathatop
Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Patnitop
2. Sanasar
Photo: Cjsinghpup / Wikimedia Commons
Sanasar, a hidden gem nestled amidst verdant forests, offers an escape for adventurers and nature lovers alike. Paddle across the tranquil Sanasar Lake or unleash your inner thrill-seeker with paragliding, trekking, rock climbing, or abseiling. Depending on the availability, there are hot air balloon experiences available that offer a stunning view of the panoramic landscape from high up in the sky. There are multiple religious stops in Sanasar, including Shankhpal Mandir, Naina Devi Temple, and Bali Naag Mandir, to name a few.
Major Attractions: Sanasar Lake, Tulip Garden, and adventure activities
3. Pahalgam
Photo: Harsha Narasimhamurthy / Wikimedia Commons
Among all the popular hill stations to visit near Udhampur, Pahalgam deserves a shoutout. It is an idyllic retreat famed for its captivating natural beauty. Float down the Lidder River on a traditional Kashmiri shikara or ride on horseback through meadows carpeted with wildflowers. Hike to the enthralling Kolahoi Glacier or explore the serene Aru Valley. The Baisaran Valley nearby is an equally riveting visit when you are in Pahalgam. You can’t miss out on exploring Betaab Valley and the nearby dense forests and crystal-clear lakes along the trekking and hiking trails.
Major Attractions: Lidder River, Aru and Betaab Valley, Baisaran Valley, and Kolahoi glacier.
Suggested Read: Places to Visit in Pahalgam
4. Gulmarg
Photo: Viwa2612 / Wikimedia Commons
Gulmarg is a treasure trove for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. Glide down snow-covered slopes on skis or a snowboard during winter, or take a ride on the highest cable car in Asia for breathtaking panoramas in the summers. You can also visit the popular Baba Pathar shrine for a spiritual encounter or simply relax by the shimmering Alpather Lake. Be it some adventure, spiritual connection or a laid back exploration, Gulmarg takes care of all your travelling needs.
Major Attractions: Gulmarg Gondola, Baba Pathar Shrine, Alpather Lake, and Apharwat Peak.
5. Sonamarg
Photo: Harshruti / Wikimedia Commons
Sonamarg, means Meadow of Gold, lives up to its name with its enchanting meadows carpeted with vibrant wildflowers. Embark on a thrilling glacier trek to explore the majestic Thajiwas Glacier or go for a refreshing dip in the pristine Krishnasar Lake. Besides being a gateway to Ladakh, Sonamarg is also renowned for being surrounded by a plethora of lakes including Vishansar Lake, Gangabal, Gadsar Lake, Satsar Lake, Nichnai Lake, etc. Each of these lakes has a beauty of its own and is worth visiting while in Sonamarg.
Major Attractions: Krishnasar Lake, Thajiwas Glacier, Yousmarg, and Baltal
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Sonmarg
6. Dharamshala
Photo: TheSereneRebel / Wikimedia Commons
Steeped in Tibetan culture, Dharamshala serves as the spiritual abode of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Visit the Tsuglagkhang Temple, the Dalai Lama’s official residence, or explore the Tibetan Institute of Fine Arts, showcasing exquisite Thangka paintings and handicrafts. Hike through the Dhauladhar hills. The majority of the tourists visit Dharamshala seeking a break from the daily route of life. The slow-paced life there makes it one of the best hill stations to go near Udhampur.
Major Attractions: Tsuglagkhang Temple, Mcleodganj market, and Dhauladhar hills
7. McLeodganj
Photo: Rignam Wangkhang / Wikimedia Commons
Mcleodganj, nestled within Dharamshala, is a haven for backpackers and spiritual seekers. Explore the Namgyal Monastery, a prominent Tibetan Buddhist centre, or visit the Tibetan Library and Archives housing a vast collection of Tibetan literature. Indulge in Momos and Tibetan Thali while you are there. One of the most offbeat tourist attractions in Mcleodganj is Naddi View Point, which overlooks the entire town. The views are breathtaking from that high up. You can also explore Triund Hill and Bhagsu Waterfall.
Major Attractions: Namgyal Monastery, Naddi View Point, and Bhagsu Waterfall
Suggested Read: Pahalgam Trekking
8. Dalhousie
Photo: Harvinder Chandigarh / Wikimedia Commons
Another offbeat and often underrated hill station near Udhampur worth exploring is Dalhousie. Known for its Victorian-style buildings and architecture, Dalhousie features lush green landscapes, which equally define its growing popularity. The view of the snow-capped Dhauladhar Mountain Range or indulging in trekking and camping at Ganji Pahari. You can also have fun on a boat ride on Chamera Lake. The views of the Satdhara Falls and Dainkund Peak are a must-add to your itinerary as well.
Major Attractions: Dhauladhar Mountain Range, Satdhara Falls, Dainkund Peak, and Khajjiar
9. Shimla
Photo: Mohit Hambiria / Pexels
Shimla offers a unique mixture of colonial charm and natural beauty. Stroll along the historic Mall Road, lined with shops and cafes, or take a ride on the iconic toy train for a scenic journey through the Himalayas. Visit the Viceregal Lodge, a grand colonial mansion, or explore Garibaldi Hill for breathtaking views. If you are a history buff, delve into the region’s past at the Shimla State Museum or State Library. Also, you can’t skip out on trying out some of the local delicacies and street food options like Siddu and Kullu ki Patisa while you are in Shimla.
Major Attractions: Mall Road, Garibaldi Hill, Viceregal Lodge, and State Library
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Jammu And Kashmir In May
10. Manali
Photo: Ivishalbhutani / Wikimedia Commons
Manali, a popular hill station, is an adventurer’s paradise. You can ski down snow-covered slopes during winter or go for a mountain biking expedition during summer. Visit the Hidimba Devi Temple, a unique wooden temple dedicated to the wife of Bhima from the Mahabharata. Explore the Vashisht hot springs known for their therapeutic properties or simply relax amidst the captivating beauty of the Himalayas. The period from October to February is usually considered the best time to visit Manali.
Major Attractions: Hidimba Devi Temple, Vashisht hot springs, Beas River, and Rohtang Pass
Udhampur serves as a gateway to a mesmerising range of fun and exciting experiences. From the verdant meadows of Patnitop to the snow-capped peaks of Manali, the hill stations near Udhampur offer something unique for every kind of traveller. As you plan your next trip to one of these places, streamline everything with TripXL for the best deals and seamless booking.
Cover Photo: Sumit Sharma / Wikimedia Commons
