Serene atmosphere, pristine lakes, snow-capped mountains and verdant woods-what else can one ask for to beat the heat in summers! We all start planning for a trip to hill-station as soon as the summers begin and we have all been to Shimla, Manali, Kashmir and Uttarakhand a number of times. But, don’t you think this world is too big to visit the same place again and again! Moreover, all the popular hill stations see a heavy footfall during peak summers making the place a little unfit for those who wish to experience peace and solace on nature’s lap.
Here is a list of five hidden hill-stations in India and I suggest you to pick your desired destination before it gets popular!
Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Situated in the northwestern part of Arunachal Pradesh, Tawang is located at an elevation of 3500 metres above sea level. Tawang holds your attention with its endless beauty that you may be unwilling to get out of the hold. With Tibet to its northern side, Sela range of West Kameng to the east and Bhutan in the southwest direction the place is endowed with natural and historical beauty. Get ready to experience nature’s love with breathtaking valleys, misty rivers and stunning waterfalls at this thinly populated hill station.
Ideal Stay: 3-4 days
Must visit spots: Sela pass, Tawang Monastery, Taktsang Gompa, Gorichen Peak, Shonga-tser Lake, Nuranang Waterfalls, Pankang Teng Tso Lake, Bumla Pass, Bap Teng Kang Waterfalls, Jaswant Garh.
Activities: trekking and hiking
Nearest Airport: Nearest domestic airport is Salonibari Airport, Tezpur and nearest International airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati.
Shillong: The Cosiest Town In India
Haflong, Assam
Also known as white ant hillock, Haflong is the only hill station in Assam. This small scenic town is popular among campers and nature enthusiasts and the place is situated at an altitude of 680 m above sea level. Haflong is an ideal location to experience peace, adventure and nature as the place is blessed with beautiful Haflong Hills, landscapes, valleys, and mountains.
Most Scenic And Culturally Rich Places In Assam
Ideal Stay: 2-3 days
Must visit spots: Haflong lake, Orchid Garden, Borail Range, Maibong and Jatinga.
Activities: Camping, trekking, hiking
Nearest Airport:
Ponmudi, Kerala
Ponmudi hill station in Kerala is famous for its hill resorts, tea estates, spice plantations, gurgling brooks and wildlife. With narrow winding pathways and cool, green surroundings, the hill station is situated at an altitude of over 1,100 m above sea level. The winding streams with pristine waters and the verdant forests in the midst of serene surroundings, is sure to attract any visitor to Ponmudi Hills.
Ideal Stay: 2-3 days
Must visit spots: Mini Zoo Ponmud, Chittar Lake, Anapara
Activities: Trekking, Hiking
Nearest Airport: Trivandrum International Airport
Idukki, Kerala
Idukki, the larghest district in Kerala offers diverse attractions and activities like wildlife sanctuaries, temples and mountain treks. The high ranges and wooded valleys at Idukki are enclosed by three main rivers – Periyar, Thalayar and Thodupuzhayar – and their tributaries. About 97% of this district is covered by mountains and forests and the area has a rich wildlife.
Ideal Stay: 3-5 days
Must visit spots: Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary, Kurinjimala Sanctuary, Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary, Hill View Park, Thommankuthu Falls, Keezharkuthu Falls, Idukki Arch Dam, Shri Krishna Temple
Activities: Trekking, Elephant Rides, Hiking, Boating, Bamboo rafting, Mountaineering
Nearest Airport: Madurai and Cochin
Pelling, Sikkim
Named after the guardian deity of Sikkim, Pelling offers breathtaking view of the Khangchendzonga and surrounding ranges. With serene environment and picturesque setting, the hill station is perfect for nice nature walks and small treks. While the place is now emerging as a popular tourist destination yet it is lesser known and doesn’t see a heavy footfall. The place is ideal for those who do not wish to visit heavily crowded hill-stations as you can experience solace in nature’s lap here.
Ideal Stay: 2-3 days
Must Visit Spots: Khecheopalri Lake, Pemayangtse Monastery, Changey Waterfall, Kanchendzonga waterfall, Rabdanse Ruins, Traditional Cultural Program, Sangachoeling Monastery and Sewaro Rock Garden
Activities: white-water rafting, trekking, mountain biking, sightseeing, traditional sports and bird- watching.
Nearest Airport: Bagdogra airport
