Cradled in the arms of the mountain, you shall bask under the morning sun as it peeps from behind the hills. The mountains remind us of superiority and massiveness. It speaks amidst the silence and roars the language of freedom. Nestled in comfortable cottages you can spend time with your loved ones during the vacations. Hill stations are always the most recommended spots for tourists to enjoy the glory of India.
The country is blessed with the largest range also called the Himalayas. The peak of Everest and the chain of mountains shall call you to visit them again and again. Once you have smelled the mountain wind, there is no way to turn back and walk away from this everlasting experience. Here we shall take you through the features of some mesmerising hill stations of India.
1. Kullu and Manali
The famous hill station of Manali is situated amidst the high rising hills of Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar. The hill station was often referred to as the winter capital during the time of British rule. It has continued to hold onto its glory and splendour. Shimla is a much-visited place by tourists from all around the world.
Decked with local markets and historical churches, the town on the hills never fails to surprise visitors. You may take a car ride to the hills or go for flights to reach Shimla. Manali can be reached with the help of bus rides and tourism transport facilities available in Shimla. The famous mountain passes and the Baba Mandir are other tourist attractions of Manali.
read also: Top 5 Best Budget Friendly Himalayan Treks
2. Ooty, in the land of Nilgiris
If you are looking for a green escape from the busy city life, Ooty is the perfect place to find your solace and peace. The lush green valleys and moors shall have you dumbstruck and looking for more. The climate of Ooty is favourable all around the year and you can simply pick up your backpacks and head to the hills anytime you desire. Located at a level of 2240m, the hills of Ooty is situated in the serene land of Tamil Nadu.
You shall fully experience the authentic south Indian culture and taste while you stay at this place. Ooty is much appreciated for the freshness and calm environment. The alluring aura of the location attracts several tourists from different parts of the country and even from abroad. The dreamy life of the inhabitants and the peaceful nature of the hills shall leave a profound mark on your soul.
3. Darjeeling in West Bengal
The state of West Bengal houses the most beautiful hill station of all the rest in the country. Easily commutable and affordable lodging makes Darjeeling even more popular among visitors and tourists. It is regarded as the Queen of Hills signifying the aesthetic beauty of the location. The local markets spread all over the area sell handicrafts and intricate showpieces. The woollen garments and other clothes will draw your attention towards themselves.
Darjeeling is used for shooting movie scenes and it is famous for its legendary zoo and Tenzing Norgay museum. The tea gardens will make you wish that you never have to return from the place. As dusk sets in and the houses about the cliff twinkle with small lights, the place looks nothing but a fairyland.
Other places of visit include Mirik, hanging garden, the rock gardens and the numerous tea estates.
read also: Best Landscapes In India
4. Leh Ladakh, The valleys of Kashmir
The valleys of Sonmarg and Gulmarg will remind you about the description of Paradise from the books and novels. You shall find yourself stunning beautiful experiences in the field and outstretched flower gardens. The boat ride on the Dal lake and watching the starry sky at night time are experiences and moments that cannot be compared to anything.
The rugged mountain terrain of Ladakh is appropriate for trekking and rides to the peak to enjoy the spirit of adventure and thrill. The Himalayan ranges never fail to mesmerise their guests and everyone gets a share of fulfilment in the cradled lap of the mountains. Life seems slow-paced and wholesome when you visit the hill stations and forget about the crowded city life. The local food items shall always keep you company for the rest of the trip.
5. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
You must have read about Dehradun and Mussoorie in the books of Ruskin Bond who has described the hills as nothing less than heaven on earth. The winding paths and the fresh wind will make you forget about all your worries and leave you stress-free.
Tourists are always spotted in the cherry and apple orchards or going around the city to watch the churches and the old movie theatres from the time of Bond's childhood. This is the kind of trip that will take you back in time and make you experience the simplicity of living. Do not miss out on a chance to visit Mussoorie once in your lifetime.