As the summer heat intensifies in the capital, the relentless sun makes its presence felt. Fortunately, India's rich diversity of landscapes provides options for a quick retreat to the refreshing coolness of the hill stations and mountain towns near Delhi. Here are seven captivating destinations waiting to offer respite from the sweltering heat.
Discover the tranquility of Kausani in Uttarakhand, the ultimate destination to unwind. Nestled in the Bageshwar district, this charming village offers a handful of attractions perfect for a day or two of exploration. Embrace the freedom of going without a plan and simply slowing down. Visit Kausani for stunning mountain views, tranquil forests, and over 50 bird species. Don't miss the Kausani Tea Estate and the chance to see where scenes from "Koi Mil Gaya" were filmed. From temples to scenic hikes and stunning waterfalls, Kausani has it all. Plan your visit with help from our Kasauni guides here and here.
Nestled in the serene Seraj Valley, Shoja is a hidden gem often overshadowed by the bustling hill stations of Himachal Pradesh. The journey from Delhi to this tranquil hamlet may be long, but the breathtaking beauty of sloping mountains adorned with lush greenery, conifers, and snow-capped peaks makes it all worthwhile. Shoja, located between Shimla and Kullu districts, offers a peaceful retreat within the Great Himalayan National Park area. Visitors can explore walking trails leading to scenic spots such as Serolsar Lake, Jalori Pass, and Waterfall Point, making it an ideal destination for unwinding and rejuvenation.
Located close to the popular hill station of Mussoorie, Dhanaulti beckons with its peaceful and laid-back atmosphere, providing a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. Nestled at the foothills of the Garhwal, it is cocooned by dense virgin forests of deodars, oaks, and rhododendrons. Serving as the gateway to treks into the Himalayas, it offers a range of adventurous activities including rappelling, ziplining, and skating. Visitors should not overlook the opportunity to visit the Deogarh Fort, the Dhanaulti Eco Park. Just seven km away lies the revered Surkanda Devi Temple, perched atop a hill, believed by locals to be a siddhapeeth dedicated to an incarnation of the goddess Durga. Renowned for its architectural beauty and breathtaking vistas, the temple, situated at 2,700 metres, offers a panoramic view of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks on a clear day, set against the backdrop of the surrounding forests.
The historical kingdom of Chamba, believed to be founded a century and a half ago, has left its mark on the modern capital, Chamba town. It is known for its dairy products, the fiery red chilli pickle-paste 'Chamba Chukh', and the streets selling its famed GI-tagged rumaals and chappals. The serendipitous charm of Chamba stands out amidst the conceited cantonment towns and fashionable colonial summer capitals. Check out our guide to Chamba to plan your holiday.
The majestic Himalayan ranges unfold in front of you, with cascading waterfalls adding to the breathtaking beauty. The powerful River Kali rushes to meet the Goriganga, creating a mesmerising natural spectacle. Askot, located 54 km from Pithoragarh, is a gateway to Dharchula, the starting point for the annual Kailash-Manasarovar pilgrimage. This tiny town is surrounded by surviving forests and tribal habitation, and a part of this area has been designated as the Askot Musk Deer Sanctuary. Check out our guide to plan your holiday in this town.
Patnitop is perched on a beautiful plateau and offers some breathtaking views of the Chenab gorge. It is one of the few areas in Jammu which receives snow. The thin layer is enough for enterprising locals to run a skiing school (strictly for beginners). The real charm of Patnitop however lies in some of the walks that it has to offer. Walks to Madha Top, the ridge opposite Patnitop and to Sanasar, a grassy meadow winding through forests of pine and cedar.
Surrounded by the mountains of southern Kashmir, this town is dotted with unending stretches of dense woods, natural streams, and wildflowers. Located around 90 km from Srinagar, Chatpal's tourism potential wasn't discovered until very recently, so it is highly likely that you will be able to enjoy nature's gifts in splendid isolation. You can go on long walks, chat with the Gujjar-Bakerwal people over cups of kahwa, and observe herds of sheep grazing freely in huge, open meadows. Summers are the time when you will be able to appreciate the lush greenery.