Uttarakhand is the one region that many plan a trip to for a quick yet satisfying getaway, especially since you get a chance to gaze endlessly at the mighty Himalayas and appreciate the breathtaking environs of the state. The state is home to beautiful rivers, quaint lakes, and holy peaks. Furthermore, it is laced with high-altitude hiking trails and twisting roads that lead to popular places of pilgrimage.
If you have been looking at the hill stations in Uttarakhand but haven’t been able to make up your mind, then this blog should help ease your confusion. The best hill stations in the state are included in Uttarakhand holiday packages that cover a lot of attractions. Going for such a tour package will make trip-planning the least of your worries. The fact is that there are many hill stations near Uttarakhand, both popular and underrated ones that highlight its natural beauty in their own unique way.
Keep this list of hill stations in Uttarakhand handy to help you make a choice: –
# Nainital
The favourite hill resort of Uttarakhand, Nainital is one of the best hill stations in Uttarakhand. Wrapped around Lake Naini, it dwells in a steep valley that attracts travellers for spending a weekend away in the hills. Along with several hotels surrounding the lake, there is also a busy bazaar and walking tracks for you to explore. Honeymooners and families love this place. You can paddle on the lake, ride a horse, eat in the numerous eateries, and shop to gather souvenirs in Nainital for a fulfilling trip.
# MussoorieTrailing Nainital in this list of top hill stations in Uttarakhand is Mussoorie. Resting on a hill on a 2 km high ridge, the hill station is also called the ‘Queen of Hill Stations’. The view of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks and the Doon Valley make for a superb sight, which means ‘weekend plans done right’. Even in the hot summer months, the cooler climate and the mountain breeze offer a respite from the city life and are just enough for a weekend full of fun.
# DehradunThe capital of Uttarakhand, Dehradun is an ever-expanding city in the Doon Valley that is located between the Siwalik Range and the Himalayan foothills. Most travellers pass through the city on their journey to Mussoorie, Haridwar, or Rishikesh, but stopping by Dehradun for a brief pause will be worth your time. Highlights of this famous hill station in Uttarakhand include the Clock tower, Tapkeshwar temple, Robber’s Cave, and Forest Research Institute Museum.
# Auli
Auli is the go-to place for skiing activities and is undoubtedly a top hill station in Uttarakhand. Excellent for a straight two-day trip where you won’t get tired just looking at the snow-capped mountains. Even if you go on a weekend trip in summer to Auli, Uttarakhand, you can take in the breathtaking view of India’s second-highest peak Nanda Devi when you reach the highest point of the cable-car station. A popular hill resort in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, Auli is great for catching natural vistas and enchanting views.
# BhimtalSituated at a distance of 22 kms from Nainital, Bhimtal is where you have a peaceful tryst with nature at one of the most serene hill stations in Uttarakhand. Promising breathtaking vistas, Bhimtal is a more offbeat location and may interest people willing to try something new for a change. The town of Bhimtal surrounding the Bhimtal Lake offers you the perfect setting to connect with nature.
# Naukuchia TalAmong the less famous hill stations in Uttarakhand, Naukuchia Tal deserves your undivided attention. Perfect for a laid-back weekend trip if you are going out with your fellas or flying solo, this destination is a quaint hill station that is set surrounding a massive lake that is enough to entice you into extending your two-day trip. Interestingly enough, the name of the hill station means ‘the lake with nine corners’ upon translation. The lush greenery and the eye-pleasing waters of the place will certainly leave you wanting for more.
# MukteshwarThe aura of Mukteshwar will stay long with you even after leaving the place. One of the best hill stations in Uttarakhand, Mukteshwar is situated 51 kms from Nainital and offers divine views of the mighty Himalayas. It is famous among devotees for the Mukteshwar Mahadev Temple. If you are an adventure junkie, then you will be in luck when you visit the hill station as you can do rock climbing, rappelling, and many more interesting activities upon your visit.
# RanikhetGreen foliage, beguiling sights, and tall pine trees are the reasons why Ranikhet is included in the list of the top hill stations in Uttarakhand. The fitting atmosphere of fresh air and calm will make your weekend trip to Uttarakhand a successful one. The view of the grand Himalayas here will leave you gazing for hours. Located in the Almora district of Rajasthan, the hill station is home to the noteworthy Jhula Devi Temple and provides the perfect hill escape to travellers.
# KausaniPerched at an altitude of 1890 metres, Kausani should certainly make it to your list of hill stations to visit in Uttarakhand. This hill station is ideal for people looking for some solitude on a weekend trip. Always resonating with peace, the hill station is known for its meandering creeks, pine tree forests, and lush green valley. Complete with the attractive view of the Himalayas, one can visit the tea estate or go for nature’s walk to just relax and unwind.
# LansdowneA hill station with a tempting atmosphere and lush greenery, Lansdowne nestles in the lower Himalayas and is and a bird watcher’s paradise. Apart from the charming landscape of the hill station, it also offers you multiple points of interests to visit such as the Bhulla Tal and the Military Museum. It one of those famous hill stations in Uttarakhand that isn’t heavily urbanized and, therefore, offers the perfect setup for a calm weekend getaway.
# AlmoraShaped like a horseshoe, the town of Almora is a famous hill station in Uttarakhand. You get to witness a pre-British heritage and panoramic views of Himalayan peaks when here. Once you enter, an idyllic vibe seems to tug at you and keeps you hooked the entire time of your stay. Home to several temples like Golu Devta and Nanda Devi, the hill station is actually a cantonment town that offers you a peaceful abode for a weekend away from your home.
# ChambaBeing one of the best hill stations in Uttarakhand, Chamba is a tiny paradise. The spectacular view of lush greenery with the stunning Himalayas in the background leaves you spellbound. There are many places that you can visit in Chamba on your weekend trips, such as Gabar Singh Memorial and several Hindu temples. The silence of the place will engulf you as you observe nature abound with Pine and Deodar trees along with Apple Orchards.