Want to beat the sweltering summer heat? Hill stations combine cool temperatures, stunning landscapes, and invigorating experiences. Whether you want to explore misty mountains or lush valleys, these peaceful holiday options offer leisure, opportunities for adventure, and breathtaking scenery all in one trip.
If you are looking for hill stations to visit in the summer, we have a range of options covered in this blog. All you need is to book a self-drive car rental and start your wanderlust across the valleys and mountains in India.
Beat the heat with a refreshing escape to the mountains. These summer destinations promise cool temperatures, beautiful scenery, and a perfect getaway from city life. Pick any of the best hill stations to visit in summer and enjoy a relaxing and rejuvenating trip in India.
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| Hill Station | Location | Known for |
|---|---|---|
| Ooty | Tamil Nadu | Nilgiri Mountain Railway Ooty Lake Dolphin’s Nose |
| Kasol | Himachal Pradesh | Manikaran Sahib Nature Park Tosh |
| Coorg | Karnataka | Abbey Falls Mandalpatti Raja’s Seat |
| Pahalgam | Jammu and Kashmir | Scenic Beauty & Valleys Amarnath Yatra Adventure sports on the Lidder River |
| Gangtok | Sikkim | Nathula Pass MG Marg Rumtek Monastery |
| Coonoor | Tamil Nadu | Waterfalls and lakes Gardens and tea estates Colonial-style architecture |
| Munnar | Kerala | Mattupetty Dam Kolukkumalai Tea Estate Rose Garden Munnar |
| Leh | Ladakh | Monasteries Shanti Stupa |
| Nainital | Uttarakhand | Sitla Chauli ki Jaali Mukteshwar Dham Temple |
| Shillong | Meghalaya | Umiam Lake Elephant Falls Shillong Peak |
Do you remember the iconic song “Chaiyya Chaiyya”? Yes, Ooty is the place where this famous Bollywood song was picturized on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway track, which is Asia’s steepest track and a must-try experience in Ooty.
Ooty, also known as Udagamandalam, is nestled in the Nilgiri Hills and is one of Tamil Nadu’s most loved hill stations. This “Queen of Hills” was the summer retreat of the East India Company once and is known for its cool weather, tea gardens, waterfalls, and colonial charm. This hill station is especially renowned as a honeymooners’ paradise for its romantic views of the Nilgiri Mountains. It is an evergreen destination in South India that can be visited throughout the year.
Things to Do:
Kasol is a quaint village situated on the banks of the Parvati River in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. Reputed as the “Amsterdam of India,” Kasol is a traveler-friendly spot located 23 km from Bhuntar and near the religious town of Manikaran, where backpackers, thrill-seekers, and anyone who loves the outdoors frequent. The stunning setting, complete with snow-capped mountains, high pine shoots, and the calming sound of the water, makes it a tranquil getaway and sweet paradise for adventure hunting. Adventure seekers can book a car rental service to drive to Kasol from Delhi or any other nearby destination.
Things to Do:
Coorg is a beautiful hill station situated in Karnataka’s Western Ghats. It is a treasure trove of rolling hills, coffee estates, and rich green forests. The lovely climate makes it a perfect summer getaway. There are many natural and cultural gems to experience, including Abbey Falls, Mandalpatti, Dubare Elephant Camp, and trekking trails around Tadiandamol Peak. Take the time to enjoy the natural beauty of Coorg with its tiered waterfalls and experience the diverse wildlife as well as the unique Kodava ways. Don’t forget to bring home some locally sourced coffee, fresh honey, homemade chocolates, local spices, and silk saris.
Things to Do:
Pahalgam is a beautiful hill station located in Anantnag district, roughly 90 km from Srinagar, on the Liddar River and surrounded by meadows, mountains, and adventure. It is most well-known for trekking, most notably the trek to Kolahoi Glacier via Aru village, but also offers trout fishing, pony rides, zorbing, and many beautiful spots such as Sheshnag Lake, Baisaran (Mini Switzerland) and of course as it is locally known Betaab Valley, named after a Hindi film that was shot in the valley, and of course Chandanwari is the base where the Amarnath Yatra embarks from. Don’t forget to pop into Pampore, which is a nearby town famous for authentic Kashmiri saffron. Pahalgam is genuinely one of the loveliest places in Kashmir that offers adventure, culture, and natural beauty.
Things to Do:
The beautiful hill station Gangtok, the state capital of Sikkim, is located at an elevation of 1,650 m and is endowed with stunning views of Mt. Kanchenjunga. It also serves as a place for a multitude of adventure activities, such as trekking, paragliding, mountain biking, and river rafting on the Teesta River. In spring, tourists can see stunning rhododendrons, and the different seasons set the mood for many natural attractions such as Tsomgo Lake, Ban Jhakri Falls, and monasteries like Rumtek and Enchey. The vibrant MG Road includes shopping, cafes, and nightlife. By striking the right balance of nature, adventure, culture, and relaxation, Gangtok is one of the most beautiful destinations in Northeast India.
Things to Do:
Coonoor, the second largest hill station in the Nilgiris, located 19 km from Ooty, is situated at an altitude of 1,930 meters. Coonoor is a pleasant summer getaway destination where visitors can enjoy tea plantations, charming colonial architecture, and excellent weather all year round. The scenic views of the Nilgiri Hills and Catherine Falls from Coonoor are awe-inspiring. Coonoor is also a wonderful place to spend a few days in the Nilgiris, either in a heritage home or in a guesthouse in the hills. It offers the perfect combination of a peaceful getaway or staycation.
Things to Do:
Munnar, nestled in Kerala’s Idukki district, is one of the most enchanting hill stations in South India, offering sweeping views of the Western Ghats. Known for its endless stretches of tea plantations, mist-covered valleys, and scenic viewpoints, it has long been a favorite escape—once serving as the British summer retreat and now a sought-after honeymoon destination. Tourists can take in attractions like Eravikulam National Park, the actual home of the endangered Nilgiri Ṭahr, and birdwatchers can enjoy the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary. Adventure-seekers can go trekking, camping, jeep safaris, and nature trails, while experience-seekers can see the Neelakurinji flower, which blooms only once every twelve years. A trip to Munnar is not complete without enjoying the fresh spices, homemade chocolates, and signature teas, and the overall experience provides a nice mix of nature, adventure, and local immersion.
Things to Do:
Leh, widely known as a biker’s paradise, is the capital of Ladakh and is characterized by mountain passes, rugged terrain, and breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Slated at 3,520 m in the upper Indus Valley, Leh was also once an important stop on trade routes from Tibet, Kashmir, and China. It now attracts travelers to its unique landscapes and its monasteries, palaces, and adventurous places, such as Magnetic Hill, Khardung La Pass, and the Hall of Fame museum, where you can find local cafes and restaurants with Indian, Tibetan, and international dishes, and colorful markets selling handicrafts. Leh may be harsh in terms of weather and routes, but it is still a gateway to discover the unspoiled, wild wilderness of Ladakh. Leh has become a favorite for bikers and trekkers alike, as well as families and new adventurers.
Things to Do:
Nainital is a charming hill station in the Kumaon district of Uttarakhand, named after its emerald green Naini Lake. Nainital makes for a perfect weekend destination with activities such as boating and trekking, beautiful views of the Himalayan Peaks, and day trips to nearby Bhimtal, Sattal, and Naukuchiatal lakes. For thrill seekers, possibilities abound with trekking, paragliding, or rock climbing. Nainital offers a moderate climate, stunning scenery, and peace, making it a popular travel destination throughout the year.
Things to Do:
Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, is an exquisite hill station often referred to as the “Scotland of the East.” Surrounded by pine-covered hills, this place is known for its exceptional weather and picturesque sights. Some popular locations, such as Umiam Lake, Elephant Falls, and the awe-inspiring Laitlum Canyons, provide opportunities for trekking. Mawphlang, with its sacred groves, is located nearby, while Mawlynnong is famous for its pristine surroundings and living root bridges. Shillong’s reputation as the music capital of India provides some thrilling options for culturally engaging festival possibilities throughout the year. The picturesque scenery and the friendly people create a unique and unforgettable experience for everyone!
Things to Do:
The finest alternative to escape the summer heat is hill stations, as they provide cool, soothing weather, beautiful views, and peaceful surroundings. Whether you want to relax or be adventurous, these destinations will have plenty to offer. To help make your road trip all the better, choose the self-drive car rental option from Revv, so your trip to the hill stations can be more comfortable and convenient.
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