Best Hill Stations in India for Summer: A Complete Travel Guide (2025)

Introduction: Escape the Scorching Heat

As summer temperatures soar above 40°C across India’s plains, hill stations become the perfect retreat. With cool breezes, lush greenery, and breathtaking landscapes, these destinations offer relief from the blistering heat.

This  guide covers the best hill stahttp://www.indiatourpackages.comtions in India for summer, including climate, attractions, activities, and travel tips. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, family vacation, or solo adventure, India’s hills have something for everyone.

Top 15 Best Hill Stations in India for Summer (2025)

1. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

• Why Visit? Colonial charm, scenic toy train rides, and pleasant weather (15°C–25°C).
• Top Attractions: Mall Road, Jakhoo Temple, Kufri, The Ridge.
• Best For: Families, honeymooners, history lovers.

2. Manali, Himachal Pradesh

• Why Visit? Adventure sports, snow-capped peaks, and apple orchards (10°C–25°C).
• Top Attractions: Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley, Hidimba Temple.
• Best For: Adventure seekers, bikers, couples.

3. Darjeeling, West Bengal

• Why Visit? Famous tea gardens, UNESCO toy train, and Himalayan views (12°C–22°C).
• Top Attractions: Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Peace Pagoda.
• Best For: Tea lovers, photographers, families.

4. Ooty, Tamil Nadu

• Why Visit? Lush Nilgiri hills, botanical gardens, and boat rides (15°C–25°C).
• Top Attractions: Ooty Lake, Doddabetta Peak, Tea Museum.
• Best For: Honeymooners, nature lovers.

5. Munnar, Kerala

• Why Visit? Rolling tea plantations, waterfalls, and spice gardens (17°C–25°C).
• Top Attractions: Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, Tea Museum.
• Best For: Couples, solo travelers.

6. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand

• Why Visit? “Queen of Hills,” stunning viewpoints, and waterfalls (12°C–25°C).
• Top Attractions: Kempty Falls, Gun Hill, Mall Road.
• Best For: Families, writers, honeymooners.

7. Coorg, Karnataka

• Why Visit? Coffee plantations, misty hills, and wildlife (15°C–26°C).
• Top Attractions: Abbey Falls, Raja’s Seat, Dubare Elephant Camp.
• Best For: Nature lovers, adventure seekers.

8. Nainital, Uttarakhand

• Why Visit? Serene lakes, boating, and Himalayan views (14°C–25°C).
• Top Attractions: Naini Lake, Snow View Point, Tiffin Top.
• Best For: Families, photographers.

9. Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra

• Why Visit? Strawberry farms, panoramic viewpoints (16°C–30°C).
• Top Attractions: Venna Lake, Arthur’s Seat, Mapro Garden.
• Best For: Weekend getaways, foodies.

10. Gangtok, Sikkim

• Why Visit? Buddhist monasteries, alpine scenery (10°C–22°C).
• Top Attractions: MG Marg, Rumtek Monastery, Tsomgo Lake.
• Best For: Spiritual travelers, adventure lovers.

11. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

• Why Visit? “Princess of Hill Stations,” star-gazing (15°C–23°C).
• Top Attractions: Coaker’s Walk, Pillar Rocks, Bryant Park.
• Best For: Honeymooners, families.

12. Shillong, Meghalaya

• Why Visit? Scotland of the East, waterfalls, living root bridges (15°C–24°C).
• Top Attractions: Elephant Falls, Umiam Lake, Laitlum Canyons.
• Best For: Nature explorers, photographers.

13. Mount Abu, Rajasthan

• Why Visit? Only hill station in Rajasthan, Dilwara Temples (21°C–33°C).
• Top Attractions: Nakki Lake, Sunset Point, Guru Shikhar.
• Best For: Couples, history buffs.

14. Auli, Uttarakhand

• Why Visit? Skiing in summer, Himalayan meadows (10°C–20°C).
• Top Attractions: Auli Ropeway, Joshimath, Chenab Lake.
• Best For: Adventure lovers, trekkers.

15. Coonoor, Tamil Nadu

• Why Visit? Quieter alternative to Ooty, tea estates (18°C–25°C).
• Top Attractions: Sim’s Park, Dolphin’s Nose, Lamb’s Rock.
• Best For: Peace seekers, elderly travelers.

How to Choose the Best Hill Station for Summer?

Consider these factors before booking:

✔ Temperature (Opt for 10°C–25°C for comfort)
✔ Accessibility (Flight/train/bus connectivity)
✔ Budget (Luxury resorts vs. budget stays)
✔ Activities (Trekking, boating, sightseeing)
✔ Crowd Levels (Peak season vs. offbeat spots)

Best Summer Activities in Hill Stations

1. Trekking & Hiking (Manali, Auli, Coorg)
2. Boating & Waterfalls (Nainital, Ooty, Munnar)
3. Toy Train Rides (Darjeeling, Shimla, Ooty)
4. Wildlife Safaris (Munnar, Coorg, Mahabaleshwar)
5. Yoga & Meditation (Rishikesh, Gangtok)

Travel Tips for Summer Hill Station Trips

✔ Book Early (Hotels fill up fast in peak season)
✔ Pack Light Woolens (Nights can be chilly)
✔ Stay Hydrated (High altitude can cause dehydration)
✔ Avoid Plastic (Many eco-sensitive zones ban plastics)
✔ Respect Local Culture (Dress modestly near religious sites)

Conclusion: Beat the Heat in India’s Best Hill Stations

From Shimla’s colonial charm to Munnar’s tea gardens, India’s hill stations offer the perfect summer escape. Whether you seek adventure, romance, or peace, these destinations promise cool weather, stunning views, and unforgettable experiences.

Plan your trip now and enjoy a refreshing summer getaway!