Top 17 Hill Stations in Himachal Pradesh

With the current busy lifestyle, travelling has become the only oasis. In this hot and humid climate of India, hill stations can be the perfect spot for a vacation. Himachal Pradesh is an underrated tourist destination with multiple hill stations.

Wondering about the best hill stations in Himachal Pradesh? We will provide a list of hand-picked spots in this piece.

Are you planning a vacation in Himachal Pradesh? Here is our list of the best hill stations in Himachal that you must explore this season.

1. Shimla

Shimla is often considered one of the famous hill stations of Himachal Pradesh. It can be the perfect choice for a quick holiday if you stay anywhere near Delhi or Chandigarh. Tourists are attracted because of its picturesque mountains, beautiful Hindu temples, and nearby hills with thick green forests.

• Best Time to Visit: The best time would be from May to June if you are looking for a pleasant climate and December to January if you are into winter sports.
• Top Things to Do: Tourists are interested in toy train riding, ice skating, and camping in the woods. You can enjoy walking in the lush green Pine and Oak forests and photographing.
• Top Places to Visit: Jakhoo Temple, Tara Devi Temple, Himalayan Bird Park, Lakkar Bazar, Indian Institute of Advanced Studies, Military Museum, Scandal Point, Chadwick Waterfall, Shimla Ridge, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: Starting from ₹ 9,048 for one person (5 Nights / 6 Days)
• How to Reach: By air, road and train.

2. Dharamshala

Located in Kangra Valley, Dharamshala has attracted tourists with the picturesque landscapes. It provides vibes of tranquillity and the essence of spirituality while being a serene and secluded area. Additionally, it includes the beauty of the Dhauladhar ranges, with forests of thick deodar cedar trees and snow-capped mountain peaks. Tourists are attracted to its popularity as a Tibetan hub in India.

• Best Time to Visit: It is preferable to visit Dharamshala between February and June. The weather is at its best during this time.
• Top Things to Do: Sightseeing is the best you can do to explore the beauty of this place. Apart from that, you can go shopping, trekking and cycling.
• Top Places to Visit: Namgyal Monastery, Tsuglagkhang Complex, Kareri Dal Lake, Bhagsunag Temple, Gyuto Monastery, Naddi Village, Kangra Fort, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 11,500 - ₹ 20,500 for one person (5 Nights / 6 Days)
• How to Reach: By air, road and train.

3. Dalhousie

If you are planning to have a holiday in a calm and serene location, Dalhousie should be on your bucket list. It is known for its luscious meadows combining fir and pine trees. Built during the British colonial rule, Dalhousie lets you experience an old-world charm, mesmerising landscapes and misty mountains. Moreover, you can shop for famous woollen Himachali shawls and Chamba handkerchiefs from here.

• Best Time to Visit: March to June will be the best time to visit. The weather will be pleasant, and mountains will be visible out of the fog.
• Top Things to Do: Boat riding, hiking and trekking are common here. You can also go sightseeing and shopping.
• Top Places to Visit: Panch Pulla Waterfall, Chamera Lake, Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, Satdhara Falls, Ganji Pahari, Subhash Baoli, Chamunda Devi Temple, Tibetan Handicrafts Market
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 11,500 - ₹ 20,500 for one person (5 Nights / 6 Days)
• How to Reach: By air, road and train.

4. Manali

It is probably one of the most popular hill stations in Himachal Pradesh. Decorated with thick oak, pine, and deodar forests, Manali is a perfect site for a quick escape from monotonous work life. Additionally, it is known for its splendid landscapes, culturally inclined attractions and multiple food options. It offers an urban touch with ambient cafes, good Wi-Fi availability, and convenient shops.

• Best Time to Visit: October to February should be ideal for planning a vacation to Manali.
• Top Things to Do: The main attraction here is riding bikes through the hilly roads amid natural beauty. Tourists also prefer shopping and eating to their heart’s content here.
• Top Places to Visit: Hadimba Temple, Nehru Kund, Solang Valley, Vashisht Hot Water Springs, Jogini Falls, Old Manali and Rohtang Pass
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 7,999 - ₹ 13,500 for one person (5 Nights / 6 Days)
• How to Reach: By air, road and train.

5. Chamba

Chamba is a beautiful hill station between Dhauladhar and the Zanskar mountain ranges. It is rich in Indian culture, including ancient temples and caves. Furthermore, it also highlights art with traditional handicrafts and miniature Pahari paintings. The festivals like Suhi Mata Mela and Minjar Mela also attract tourists.

• Best Time to Visit: While the weather remains pleasant throughout the year, the time between April and June might be best to have a vacation here.
• Top Things to Do: Trekking and sightseeing are common in a beautiful place like Chamba.
• Top Places to Visit: Chamera Lake, Manimahesh Lake, Lakshmi Narayan Temple, Himachal Emporium, Rang Mahal, Hariraya Temple, Chaugan, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 12,500 - ₹ 17,500 for one person (5 Nights / 6 Days)
• How to Reach: By air, road and train.

6. Kalpa

It is known for stunning sunrise and sunset views. The presence of the Kinner-Kailash range and Shiva Lingam in the surroundings make it a Hindu religious site. Apart from the jaw-dropping sites, Kalpa is also popular for the Buddhist monasteries like Gompa and Hu-Bu-Lan-car. Tourists are also attracted to the serene view of river Satluj flowing down the Himalayas into the hilly surface of Kinnaur.

• Best Time to Visit: While you can visit anytime, June to September can be ideal when the temperature is higher. Do not forget to carry woollens even during this time.
• Top Things to Do: Visiting the Kinner-Kailash range and Suicide Point, trekking to Chakka
• Top Places to Visit: Kamru Fort, Roghi Village, Suicide Point, Sapni Fort and Basteri
• Average Cost of the Vacation: Staring from ₹ 8,900 for one person (5 Nights / 6 Days)
• How to Reach: By air, road and train.

7. Sangla

With its strapping mountain slopes, Sangla is often considered one of the best hill stations in Himachal Pradesh. Its strapping mountain slopes, snow-covered peaks, red apple orchards and breathtaking verdant forests will help you escape the hustle of urban lifestyle. It is also a famous yoga retreat with several ancient temples and forts in the nearby villages. The beauty of the Baspa River also attracts tourists from across the world.

• Best Time to Visit: March to October is the best time to visit this place, as it gets extremely chilly in winter.
• Top Things to Do: Sightseeing and trekking are the best things to do here. Moreover, photography, fishing and camping are also common among tourists.
• Top Places to Visit: Kamru Fort, Baspa dam, Bring Nag Temple, Chitkul and apple orchards.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 9,500 - ₹ 16,500 for one person (5 Nights / 6 Days)
• How to Reach: By air, road and train.

8. Narkanda

If you are a fan of skiing, Narkanda should be on your bucket list. Its expansive meadow covered with snow attracts tourists for perfect winter sports. Other attractions of this site include tropical forests, majestic hills and the Tannu Jabar Lake. It has multiple trekking sites, Hatu Nag being the most popular hill range.

• Best Time to Visit: If you want to experience pleasant weather, you can visit between April and September. However, visit from December to February for skiing and other winter sports.
• Top Things to Do: Skiing is the best thing to do here. Tourists also like to trek to the Hatu Nag, visit the Tannu Jabar Lake and enjoy fresh apples from stokes farm.
• Top Places to Visit: Jubbar Lake, Hatu peak and Mahamaya Temple
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 7,999 - ₹ 17,000 for one person (5 Nights / 6 Days)
• How to Reach: By air, road and train.

9. Kufri

While listing the top hill stations in Himachal Pradesh, Kufri is worth mentioning. Tourists interested in trekking like to visit Mahasu Peak and Fagu Valley, which are also accessible via pony ride. It is also popular for its romantic ambience with snowfall during winter. The National Park can be a great spot for entertainment for kids, which houses 150 species of birds.

• Best Time to Visit: April to June and November to March can be the best time to visit this place. The former is to enjoy pleasant weather and the latter for experiencing snowfall and winter sports.
• Top Things to Do: Trekking in Rupin Pass and Chail and enjoying Yak Rides are popular things to do here.
• Top Places to Visit: Himalayan Wildlife Zoo, Kufri Fun World, The Himalayan Nature Park, Indira Tourist Park, Green Valley, Fagu, etc.
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 4,500 - ₹ 9,999 for one person (5 Nights / 6 Days)
• How to Reach: By air, road and train.

10. Chail

Spread across the hillocks of Sadh Tiba, Pandewa and Rajgarh, Chail provides pleasant weather for a perfect vacation. The scenic beauty overlooking Shimla and Kasauli, including the lush green outfields, stunning Mountain View and dense cover of deodar and pine trees, has increased its tourist attraction. Moreover, there are multiple trekking and camping options for tourists here.

• Best Time to Visit: April to June is considered the best time. However, the climate here is pleasant. So, you can visit anytime.
• Top Things to Do: Camping and trekking are common sports in this area. Tourist usually prefers trekking from Chail to Gaura and Chail to Jhajjar. You can also enjoy walking in the pine forests.
• Top Places to Visit: Chail Wildlife Sanctuary, cricket ground, Kali temple
• Average Cost of the Vacation: Starting from ₹ 15,500 for one person (5 Nights / 6 Days)
• How to Reach: By air, road and train.

11. Mashobra

Another offbeat hill station, Mashobra, gives you a divine experience of waking up to the intoxicating mist and fog. It is mainly known for the beautiful fruit orchards, splendid Himalayan views and the scenery of thick forests. You can also enjoy the old Mahasu Devta temple, water streams and woods of tall pines, oaks and cedars.

• Best Time to Visit: For pleasant weather, visit from March to May. However, if you want to experience snowfall, then February should be the right time.
• Top Things to Do: Tourists enjoy mountain biking, paragliding, quad biking, river rafting, and camping. Boating and horse-riding are also popular sports.
• Top Places to Visit: Mahasu Peak, Craignano, Wild Flower Hall, Tattapani River, Lakka Bazaar and Reserve Forest Sanctuary
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 13,500 - ₹ 23,000 for one person (5 Nights / 6 Days)
• How to Reach: By air, road and train.

12. Dharamkot

It is mainly known as a hippie village amongst the hills of the Himalayan Ranges. As it is unexplored and less heard of, you can get your much-needed privacy and a calm environment away from crowds. It has very few hotels and commercial shops, enhancing natural beauty. Thus, it can be the best option if you wish to get away from the hustle-bustle of the city.

• Best Time to Visit: March to June will be the best time to visit here for pleasant weather conditions.
• Top Things to Do: You can visit the temples and forts and enjoy the serene beauty of nature. It is also a great place for natural and wildlife photography.
• Top Places to Visit: Kangra Fort, Galu Devi Temple and Masroor Rock Temple
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 10,500 - ₹ 18,000 for one person (5 Nights / 6 Days)
• How to Reach: By air, road and train.

13. Shoghi

If you are a religious person or simply a lover of temple architecture, you should visit Shoghi. It is also known as the temple town of Himachal Pradesh. Besides the innumerable vintage temples, Shoghi is known for its lush green landscapes, hills and pleasant temperature. It can be a perfect spot for a family vacation with picnics and camping.

• Best Time to Visit: March to June will be ideal for experiencing favourable climate conditions, while September to November will give you the feeling of a hill station with foggy and misty mountain views.
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, photography and sightseeing are common activities here. You can also go for picnics and camping.
• Top Places to Visit: Jakhoo Hill, Kali temple, Hanuman Temple and Kandaghat
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 5,500 - ₹ 11,500 for one person (5 Nights / 6 Days)
• How to Reach: By air, road and train.

14. Kasauli

One of the most popular hill stations, Kasauli, gives away the vibes of a small town free of crowds. You must visit this place if you are looking for peace of mind while getting some exposure to the beauty of nature. Moreover, it is the home to multiple lavish Victorian buildings from the era of British rule. It is also considered a popular pilgrimage place, as Lord Hanuman's residence has some history.

• Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to November will be ideal for visiting this place, as it usually has pleasant weather.
• Top Things to Do: Tourists usually prefer trekking, taking toy train rides and shopping while staying here. They also enjoy walking and enjoying in the forests.
• Top Places to Visit: Sunset Point, Sunrise Point, Gilbert Trail, Christ Church, Mall Road, Timber Trail Resort, Gurkha Fort
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 6,134 - ₹ 10,000 for one person (5 Nights / 6 Days)
• How to Reach: By air, road and train.

15. Kasol

When it comes to the most beautiful hill stations, the name Kasol comes first. Located on the Parvati river bank, Kasol is known for the trekking trails covering Kheerganga, Yanker Pass, Sar Pass, etc. Backpackers prefer this hill station because of the lush green forests of Oak and Rhododendron, beautiful hills, waterfalls and hot springs. Moreover, the Manikaran area offers a great religious experience to Sikhs and Hindus.

• Best Time to Visit: As the weather is pleasant, it is better to visit ideally between October and June to enjoy a chilly vacation.
• Top Things to Do: People mainly prefer trekking, as Kasol has extensive trekking tracks. You can also go for a picnic and shopping.
• Top Places to Visit: Parvati River, Kheerganga trail, Tosh, Chalal, and Malana
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 6,400 - ₹ 9,000 for one person (5 Nights / 6 Days)
• How to Reach: By air, road and train.

16. Palampur

Situated in the foothills of the snow-clad Dhauladhar ranges, Palampur is extremely popular among tourists and hill lovers. Its aromatic tea gardens, favourable weather, streams and rivers, lush green pine forests, and wildlife have attracted tourists. Moreover, this place has also gained popularity for the Tashi Jong Monastery and the tea gardens.

• Best Time to Visit: March to June and Mid-September to November will be preferable, with pleasant weather conditions.
• Top Things to Do: Trekking and paragliding are common activities tourists enjoy here. They also enjoy having picnics and visiting temples.
• Top Places to Visit: Kangra Fort, Dhauladhar National Park, Tashi Jong Monastery, Neugal Khad and Chamunda Devi Temple
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 9,500 - ₹ 20,500 for one person (5 Nights / 6 Days)
• How to Reach: By air, road and train.

17. Nahan

It is a lesser-known hill station in Himachal Pradesh, with beautiful lush green meadows. Moreover, it includes temples, streams, lakes, and winding trails. Apart from the natural beauty, you can enjoy wildlife and temples like Jagannath Temple and Trilokinath Cave Temple. It can be a perfect holiday destination with clean roads and free of crowds.

• Best Time to Visit: The favourable weather and climate conditions allow you to visit this place anytime around the year.
• Top Things to Do: Touring and sightseeing across the forts and temples are the best activities in this area. Moreover, you can explore wildlife and natural beauty.
• Top Places to Visit: Rani Tal, Renukaji Lake, Suketi Fossil Park, Paonta Sahib, Churdhar Peak and Jaitak Fort
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 5,500 - ₹ 10,500 for one person (5 Nights / 6 Days)
• How to Reach: By air, road and train.

Therefore, as you can see, there are multiple hill stations in Himachal Pradesh. If you are planning to visit here for a quick vacation, consider our hand-picked list of the best spots. It will help you plan your vacation based on the activities you are planning.