21 Best Hidden Hill Stations In India 2024 & FAQ’s

India is a country with so much of variety within it. Diversity of the geography of India is something to be amazed about, starting from snow-covered peaks to dry deserts.

It’s almost like you name it and you have it. Starting from the northern part of the country which is mostly covered in the Himalayan Ranges including the famous Kashmir, known as the “paradise on earth”. India has several Beautiful hill stations scattered around all over the country. The north-eastern and the eastern part is mostly evergreen forests like those in states Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh; and High Himalayan Range including K2 (8,611m) and Kanchenjunga (8,598m).

The western part of the country consists of Thar desert, which is a mostly rocky and sandy desert, and also the Western Ghats, which is older Mountain Range than the Himalayas, hence are rounder in shape and greener in color. Towards the south, there are islands like the Lakshadweep, Andaman & Nicobar Island and obviously Goa, which consists of several beautiful beaches.

Although the Himalayan Mountain range is mainly concentrated towards the north, the country has several Hill stations all over the country. So, before making the mistake of making up your mind that if you want to visit a hill station then you must go to the north, we shall take you forward to our list of Best hidden hill stations in India. 

Come with us if you want to avoid the crowdy, commercial tourist places and dive into some of the best romantic cool hidden hill stations, that most people miss.

Hidden Hill Stations In North India

1. Dhanaulti, Kaudia Range (Uttarakhand)

Although many of the hill stations of Uttarakhand are known to tourists, including the most famous one Mussoorie. But this one is an exception, this is not popular among people, not much people know about this place. Dhanaulti is a hidden hill station in is slowly gaining attention. It is situated on Mussoorie – Chamba road, at an altitude of 2286m above the sea-level. This place is just about 28kms away from Mussoorie but way less crowded and way more silent. This place is still untouched by commercialism, so it is a very calm place to chill on your own, and rediscover yourself all over again.

Best Time To Visit Dhanaulti: September to June is the best season for Dhanaulti. Try to avoid monsoons as the monsoon is harsh here, and can cause transportation problem.

How To Reach: Dhanaulti is well-connected with roads to various major places all over Uttarakhand. So, by road is a very suitable way to reach there. As it is on the way mussoorie – Chamba road.

The nearest railway station from Dhanaulti is Dehradun which is 60kms from Dhanaulti, from where you can easily reach Dhanaulti by cars, or buses.

Places to visit near Dhanaulti: Ecopark, Dhanaulti, Surkhanda Devi temple, Apple orchard resort, Dhanaulti adventure park, Deogarh fort, Tehri Dam

Things to Do: Trekking, rock climbing, valley crossing, paragliding you can do plenty of things here in the Adventure Park.

2. Chopta, Garhwal Himalayan Range (Uttarakhand)

Chopta is a small village in Uttarakhand, situated at a whopping 2,900m above the sea level. There are plenty of famous hill stations in the state, but Chopta is not one of them. Chopta is unspoiled, unexplored land. This is a very quiet and less crowded hill station compared to the others, like Dhanaulti as we mentioned above in this list. Such hidden gems are pure treasure. Chopta is surrounded by lively evergreen forests with beautiful wild Rhododendrons and the smell of pine forest engulfing your soul. and everything the popular ones offer but with less disturbance, sounds like a good deal isn’t it?

Best Time to visit Chopta: Summers are the busiest season of Chopta as the trekking routes open after snow-clogged winter. So, March to May is the best time to visit this hill station if you want to see the land blooming, fertile and lively. But you can surely visit during the winter if you want to enjoy the snowy view around.

How to reach: Winters can make your travelling pretty harsh as it is a very cold place. So, if you are planning to visit this place during winter you must first check the road conditions. Otherwise, this place is connected via roads. You can get in here via NH58, going towards Rudraprayag then turn towards Kedarnath followed by Ukhimath (another beautiful hill station just 30km from Chopta).

Nearest railway station is 100km from Chopta, so that will not be a very convenient way in my opinion. And nearest airport is Dehradun which is also approximately 97km from Chopta. From there you can get a taxi.

Places to visit near Chopta: Tugnath temple (3,860m above sea level), Deori Tal, Kanchula Korak Musk deer sanctuary, Ukhimath

Things to Do: Camping, Trekking, Snow trekking, Snow skiing, Rock climbing, Rappelling, Photography of rare Himalayan species

3. Sirmaur, Himalayan Range (Himachal Pradesh)

Sirmaur is a district in Himachal Pradesh situated in the southern part of the state. Most of the population of Sirmaur is rural population. So, if you want a time away from the rush of city then this is the perfect place for such a relaxing outing with your homies. The area is situated on the valleys of Shivalik hills at a height of 3,650m above the sea level. Scenic beauty of Sirmaur is something to fall in love for.

Best Time to visit Sirmaur: Summer is the best time to visit this place. The perfect summer destination. Winters are pretty harsh here so if you particularly do not want to view the beauty of snow-covered beauty.

How to reach: The place is well-connected with roads by the state buses. So, check on their time table for the timings of buses. The nearest airport is over 100km from Sirmaur. The nearest railway station is Barog but all the trains do not stop here. So, the road is the most preferable way. You can go to Shimla or Chandigarh then reach there by road.

Places to visit near Sirmaur: Choordhar Peaks, Renuka Wild Life Sanctuary, Mini Zoo, Lion Safari, Famous temples, National Wetland Renuka, Paonta Sahib GurudwaraShivalik Fossil Park Suketi

Things to Do: If you are an adventure lover then Choordhar peak trek is a must for you.

4. Kausani (Uttarakhand)

Kausani is a small village in the land of Hill stations but a lesser known name. Kausani is situated at a height of about 1900 m, and is known for the beautiful panoramic view of the Himalayan range of about 300km wide view. The scenic splendour here is something to die for. Kausani offers the kind of scenery that most of the hill stations fail to offer.

Read more: Best Hill Stations Near Delhi

Best Time to visit Kausani: Summer is the most preferable time to visit this place. Because clear is required for the panoramic view of Himalayas. So, April to June is the best time to visit Kausani.

How To Reach: You can reach Kausani via Dehradun or via Delhi. From Delhi, there are buses that cover about 400km from Delhi to Kausani. From Dehradun as well you can hire a car to reach Kausani.

Places to visit near Kausani Rudradhari Falls and Caves, Kausani tea estate, Anashakti Ashram, Pant Museum, Stargate observatory

Things to Do: Night sky observation, nature photography, astrophotography are some the things you will enjoy in Kausani.

5. Pangi (Himachal Pradesh)

Pangi is the perfect spot for adventure and sports lovers. Pangi is an unmatchable place which is hidden in Himachal Pradesh situated at about 3,400 m above the sea level which is a great deal to reach. People love to go for trekking in Pangi or motorbike ride which is an adventure in itself. Challenge yourself and get ready for the show! Only those who absolutely love adventure, and is accustomed to how it may look like should go for it.

Best Time to visit Pangi: May to November is the ideal to go to Pangi valley.

How To Reach: The best route to reach Pangi is from Chamba via Saach pass.

Places to visit near Pangi: Killar, Cherry bungalow, Parmar valley

Things to Do: Adventure is the word here. Just reach there via road, the fun is hidden in the journey. That is what you do.

6. Andretta Village (Himachal Pradesh)

Andretta is a very small village known as Artist’s colony. Artists’ colony was established during the 1920s when Norah Richards shifted here from Lahore. Andretta is a lost name in the list of tourist spots. But what Andretta has to offer is a very unique scenic beauty and should not be forgotten at any cost. This place is known for its craft shops and pottery. Untouched by the disturbances of cities and towns. This place a pure hidden gem, a hidden hill station in Himachal Pradesh

Best Time to visit Andretta: February to June is the best time to visit this place. You will get a number of birds and sceneries worth looking at for hours.

How To Reach: Andretta is just 17 km from Palampur, which is well-connected and a known name to anyone. You can easily hire a cab from Palampur to Andretta.

Places to visit near Andretta: Theatre society, Pottery making, Craft shops

7. Gurez (Jammu & Kashmir)

Gurez is a valley offers you one the most beautiful scenes of your lifetime. This is a bit offbeat than regular Srinagar, Pahalgam, Sonmarg and Gulmarg that most people visit. Gurez is all about small wooden cottages covered in snow, and acres of beautiful meadow just as they show in TVs. This place offers an unmatchable beauty. Locals are warm pretty people and always welcome to stay with them, which is by the way is the only accommodation here.

Best Time to visit Gurez: March to October is the ideal time to visit this place. Winters are pretty harsh here so if you are not a big fan of such winters then avoid winter.

How To Reach: Take a cab from Srinagar and go on a journey of about 123km till Gurez.

Places to visit near Gurez: Gangabal lake, Gadsar lake, Krishnasar lake, Nichnai pass

Things to Do: Trekking

8. Tirthan valley (Himachal Pradesh)

Tirthan valley is the land of virgin beauty, unspoiled and unexplored. Nature lovers would love this place. Situated in the lap of Himalayas at an altitude of 1,600m above sea level. Covered with an exotic variety of flora is the most photogenic place in Himachal Pradesh.

Best Time to visit Tirthan Valley: This is fit for the whole year, all season. So, plan now for the next weekend already.

How To Reach: There are buses at regular intervals from all the major neighboring cities like Chandigarh, Delhi. You can also book a cab and go on a mesmerizing road trip with your dear ones.

Places to visit near Tirthan Valley: Serloskar Lake, Great Himalayan National park, Chhoie falls

Things to Do: Trekking to the great Himalayan national park is one of the main adventure sports you must experience, if you are an adventure enthusiast. Other than that, you can experience rock climbing, river crossing etc.

9. Kokernag (Jammu & Kashmir)

Kokernag is a rare gem that most people tend to miss when they go on a trip to Kashmir. But you wouldn’t, as you are already here with us. Kokernag is a beautiful place with the largest garden in Kashmir, you would regret if you miss this treasure. It also has trout fishery, which is the largest in Asia. It has great scenic beauty to offer with the shining sun and the lands of meadows.

Best Time to visit Kokernag: April to June i.e. summer is the best time to visit Kokernag, you will get to see gardens in full bloom state which is lovely.

 How To Reach: Take a taxi from Srinagar or Pahalgam. You will love the road trip. The journey is of about 60km from Pahalgam.

Places to visit near Kokernag: Trout fishery, Kokernag Botanical garden

10. Chaukori (Uttarakhand)

Chaukori is situated 2010m above sea level, in a hidden pocket of Uttarakhand. Consists of lush green tea gardens, snowcapped mountains in the background, overall a breathtaking scenic beauty to offer for you this vacation. Chaukori lets you rediscover yourself in a new way, have a new perspective to everything in general. Isn’t that the best thing about travelling?

Best Time to visit Chaukori: October to March is the ideal time to indulge in Chaukori’s beauty. Winter is the best-suited weather of this place.

How To Reach: As it is a hilly terrain, buses usually don’t go till Chaukori. However, you can get cabs that will take you to Chaukori from any city.

Places to visit near Chaukori: Arjuneshwar shiva temple, Viewpoints, Tea gardens

Places to visit near Ponmudi: Peppara Wildlife sanctuary, Golden valley, Aaranmula boat (during August – September)

Things to Do: You can get involved in some trekking that is available locally.

Hidden Hill Stations In South India

11. Yercaud, Eastern Ghats (Tamil Nadu)

Yercaud is secluded from the rest of the Eastern Ghats as a result of which is much less visited by tourists. This place is perfect for couple walks, and time spending. Away from the city and its crowd. Also, this is a much cheaper hill station than normal. Situated at about 1625m above sea level: this place is known for Orange groves, coffee, and spices plantations.

Read more: 21 Best Hill Stations Near Kolkata

Best Time to visit Yercaud: October to June is the ideal time to visit this place. It is recommended to avoid the monsoon months.

How To Reach: Yercaud is 35km from Salem. You can get a bus at regular intervals from Salem.

Places to visit near Yercaud: Killiyur Falls, Lady’s seat, Bear’s Cave, Emerald Lake, Pagoda Point

Things to Do: Trekking through the woods is something you can experience in Yercaud.

12. Yelagiri, Western Ghats (Tamil Nadu)

Yelagiri is an offbeat hill station situated in Tamil Nadu at 920m above sea-level. This is a newly found hill station in the Tirupatturdistrict. This is an outstanding place for a short trip, very relaxing and calm view can uplift your mood this weekend. This is not frequently visited as ooty or other hill stations in the area.

Best Time to visit Yelagiri: You can visit this place any time of the year. But winter (November to February) is the ideal time to visit this place. The weather is soothing and cold this time of the year.

How to reach: Jolarpettai is the nearest most connected railway station. Most of the trains stop here. From there, you can easily get a bus or a car to Yelagiri.

Places to visit near Yelagiri: Punganoor Lake Park, Nature Park, Jalagamparai Waterfalls, Telescope Observatory, Jalagandeeswarar Temple, Swamimalai Hills, Velavan Temple, Government Herbal Farm, Yelagiri Adventure Camp

Things to Do: Trekking and boating are some of the activities you can do here along with observing night sky in the observatory, one of the main attractions of Yelagiri, Tamil Nadu.

13. Shimoga (or Shivamogga), Western Ghats (Karnataka)

Shimoga, the name comes from ‘Shiva mukha’ i.e. face of Shiva. In 2006, Shimoga was renamed as Shivamogga by the local government. This is a small place, decorated with beautiful water falls, situated at 569m above sea level. This small town is surrounded with lush green vegetation and forests. The place seems dreamy, with full of natural beauty. The environment is perfect for relaxation.

Best Time to visit Shimoga: October to March is the best time to visit Shimoga, covering the winter season. During this period of time, the weather is particularly very comfortable and enjoyable.

How to reach: The district Shimoga is well-connected with bus routes, you will get a bus to Shimoga from most of the cities. The nearest railway station is Shimoga Nagar Railway station which is connected with major cities of Karnataka. It also has a Domestic Airport named as Shimoga Airport.

You can go on a road trip; you will enjoy the scenery I must say.

Places to visit near Shimoga: Jog falls, Agumbe, Kodachari, Talaguppa, Sagars

Things to Do: Nature photography, Hiking, trekking to various Viewpoints are the best things you can do in Shimoga.

14. Ponmudi, Western Ghats (Kerala)

Ponmudi is situated in Kerala, not very far away from the Trivandrum. 1110m above sea-level. Ponmudi is named after the Ponmudi Hill. This place is not like any other hill stations, this gives a fresh morning vibe, something you should try. Sunrise here is beautiful, with the sun rising from between two hills. This place is all about beauty; tea plantation, lush green mountains (characteristic of Western Ghats), clouds, and sunrise with a coffee mug in your hand. Appreciate the view, the scenic as it is one of its kind. Absolutely, amazing place this is.

Best Time to visit Ponmudi: November to March is the ideal time to visit this place. Enjoy the photogenic moment with shinning Kallar river, fresh waterfalls all covered in mist as if you have landed in heaven.

How to reach: The town is well connected with roads and you can easily get in there via Trivandrum which is just 61kms away from Ponmudi.

Nearest airport is Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, which is 67kms from Ponmudi, you can get a taxi or any car from the airport.

The nearest railway station is Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway station which is also at a handy distance i.e. 61 km from Ponmudi.

Hidden Hill Stations In East India

15. Haflong, Eastern Himalayas (Assam)

Haflong is a small town in Assam, not a known name among tourists. This is a small village surrounded by hilltops kissing the clouds, mist in the air and velvety green hills. Haflong is home to beautiful colourful tribes, visualizing their culture. There are multiple viewpoints, most picturesque of all is the Haflong lake with serenity and cold breeze enough to soothe your soul inside out.

Best Time to visit Haflong: Haflong is a very nice hill station fit for all seasons throughout the year. But the best time is October to March weather this time is something you will love.

How To Reach: Guwahati airport is the nearest airport to Haflong, you can have a nice ride from Guwahati airport to Haflong. Road trips here are an unbelievably amazing experience. Don’t miss out on such an opportunity.

Places to visit near Haflong: Haflong lake, Maibong, Jatinga

Things to Do: Trekking, paragliding, boating and hiking are some of the things to do while you stay in Haflong. And also, if you are Photography enthusiast, interested in rare migratory birds then you must not miss Jatinga village.

16. Horsley Hills, Eastern Ghats (Andhra Pradesh)

Horsley hills is situated close to the border between Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka and is unique than other hill stations. It is a magical hill, about 140km from Bangalore. The name of the hill is after W.D. Horsley, a British collector. This place has a climate very different from rest of the area, which is dry and hot, but Horsley hill is a hill station full of fertile land covered in green vegetation. The place is well-known for the mesmerizing scenic beauty it offers, situated at a height of 4312m. Horsley hill has the largest banyan tree and the oldest eucalyptus tree.

Best Time To Visit Horsley Hill: Monsoon and winter are the perfect time for Horsley hills when the land is fertile and the weather is cold and pleasant.

How To Reach: You can get a drive from Bangalore to Horsley hills, via Bangalore – Tirupati highway. The nearest airport to Horsley hill is the Bangalore airport which is a very well-connected one. The nearest railway station is the Madnapalley railway station, which is just 26km from Horsley Hills.

Places To Visit Near Horsley Hills: Gurramkonda Fort, Horsley Hills Zoo, Horsley hill viewpoint, Kaigal Falls

Things To Do: Wall climbing, Water walking, Rappelling, Swimming pool, Fish spa

17. Saputara, Western Ghats (Gujarat)

This is the first hill station from Gujarat in our list. And is one of the most picturesque hill stations in Gujarat. Gradually over the last few years it is gaining the attention it deserves from tourists all over the country. Saputara is located at an altitude of 1000m above sea level and is on top of a plateau, offering a majestic scenic beauty covered in lush green forests.

Best Time to visit Saputara: September to March is the best time to visit this place when the weather is relatively cool. The temperatures rise to as high as 35°C, during the summers, unlike typical hill stations.

How To Reach: You can get a cab from Surat to Saputara, the drive will be about 160km. Surat happens to be the nearest Domestic Airport. The nearest railway station is Bilimora which is 52km from Saputara.

Places to visit near Saputara: Artist village, Hatgadh fortSaputara lake, Saputara museum, Townview point, Rose garden

Things to Do: Boating, ropeway rides etc are major adventure sports you can experience in Saputara.

18. Tawang, Eastern Himalayas (Arunachal Pradesh)

Tawang is situated at 3048m above sea level. It is the smallest district of Arunachal Pradesh. Offers you the most mind-blowing views. Picturesque scene of Shonga-Tser lake is unforgettable. This place is about 500km from Guwahati and is hidden in the crevices of Arunachal Pradesh that has a lot to offer. The refreshing greeneries and the unspoiled environment are now a luxury that the most popular hill stations fail to offer. This is also the birthplace of 6^th Dalai Lama.

Best Time to visit Tawang: March to September is the best time for Tawang. Summers and most of the monsoon is the ideal time to visit Tawang. The weather is cool and pleasant with mist covering the atmosphere. During the winters the temperature can drop down to 0-3-degree Celsius.

How To Reach: Get a bus or private car from Guwahati to Tezpur, then from Tezpur to Tawang. Or you can directly go to Tezpur via Flight or Train. Buses from Tezpur are quite frequent.

Places to visit near Tawang: Tawang Monastery, Nuranang Falls, Tawang war memorial, Sela pass

Things to Do: Paragliding, Rock climbing and river rafting some the activities you can do in Tawang town.

19. Pelling (Sikkim)

Pelling is not very hidden and is known to people those who have a keen interest in travelling. Pelling is not one of the busy, crowded tourist spots. You will find villagers farming and leading a simple life. Talk a walk around the village you will love it. Pelling is very secluded and hence is underdeveloped as a tourist spot. The scenery here is a bliss to eyes. The village is very calm and pleasant.

Best Time to visit Pelling: Avoid the monsoon because there is a high chance of landslide, and might affect road conditions. Other than that, you can visit Pelling at any time of the year. The weather is warm and comfortable during the summers.

How To Reach: You can reach Pelling by road from Gangtok by hiring a taxi from the Gangtok taxi stand.

Places to visit near Pelling: Sangachoeling Monastery, Pemayangtse Monastery, Rabdentse Ruins, Rimbi River

Things to Do: Jungle walk-bird, trekking, Village walks, Bird watching are some of the activities you can do here.

Hidden Hill Stations In West India

20. Chikhaldara, Satpura Range (Maharashtra)

Chikhaldara is the only coffee plantation site in Maharashtra. Chikhaldara is situated at 1118m above the sea level, hence it has a climate very different from the rest of the state. This hill station is known for its, serene waterfalls, photogenic views, and lush green forests. This place is not like typical hill stations you come across. It has an essence of its own. This place is not much explored and not known to tourists. So, if you have that explorer inside you go for this hidden hill station in west India.

Best Time to visit Chikhaldara: July to September is the best to visit Chikhaldara. You can also visit this place during the winters when the temperature is below 10°C.

How To Reach: Mumbai is a total of 750km away from this place. You can go to Amravati Airport directly, and then you can get a direct bus from Amravati to Chikhaldara.

Places to visit near Chikhaldara: Gawilghur Fort, Kitchakdari lake, Shakkar lakes, Chikhaldara Sanctuary, Hurricane Point

Things to Do: Bird watching, and camping are some of the activities you can experience while staying there.

21. Amboli (Maharashtra)

Amboli is a small village with warm locals, situated at a height of about 690m, secluded from the rest of the world, is the ideal place if you want to spend some time to relax. Amboli is a misty wonderland, housing exotic range of flora and fauna. It is like the secret land in fantasy movies with the hidden beauties yet to be explored.

Best Time to visit Amboli: October to February is the ideal time to visit this hidden hill stations when the weather is at its best.

How To Reach: The nearest airport is Goa International Airport, which is 67km from Amboli, from where you can get cabs to reach your destination. Sawantwadi is the connecting city if you prefer by road or railway.

Places to visit near Amboli: Amboli falls, Madhavgarh fort, Shirgaonkar point, Hiranya Keshi temple, Sunset point

Things to Do: Trekking to Durg Dhakoba is a long trek and is quite challenging.

Final Thought

These were some of the hidden hill stations in India that are underrated and not known to other tourists. I can assure you that none of the above hill stations listed under hidden hill stations in India will disappoint you.  many tourists miss out these secret chambers, hidden gems when they visit the area, but these have a lot to offer. Even for weekends the tourist spots mentioned above are delightful.

Memories stay forever, then why not invest some time? Imagine an evening when you are walking with your favourite person in the whole world walking around these not-so-crowded hill stations. These hill stations are perfect as a short yet romantic honeymoon trip, in case you are planning to cancel because of time crunch, don’t!

If you know any hidden hill station in India please do share it in a comment and we will publish that place in our next article.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s) For