One of my friends recently posted on social media saying, "The mountains are calling, and I must go." So then I thought of reaching out to the mountains in Himachal Pradesh, since everyone seems to be going there recently. I was truly hurt when the mighty Himachali mountain ranges told me they are overwhelmed by the scores and scores of tourists at the moment. And that - "We need a break!" This plea made sense to me, after all they have lived longer than me carrying such wisdom!
And, before you think I have gone nuts (I mean who hasn't since the lockdown?), what I am trying to tell you is, there are many other hill stations in India which need to be explored!
And, stay with me before some of you get angry at me (breathe in breathe out) for saying that the mountains in Himachal Pradesh need a break. Tell me if you haven't seen any post on social media about the amazing hikes, workcation reels, Maggi and homestays in Himachal Pradesh even once since the past few months? And if you haven't then it's a good thing because you won't be fooled by the belief that India doesn't have any other hill stations that are worthy of that much attention! Especially with the current scenario, it's not completely okay to travel everywhere around India yet, so why not choose a hill station that's closer to where you live?
15 Hill stations perfect for the monsoons!
1. Coorg
Gifted with lush green landscapes and acres of coffee and spice plantations, Coorg is a hill station with pleasant weather all year round in Karnataka. Nestled amid hills Coorg is home to many luxury resorts, homestays and long drives. Plan a weekend getaway from Mangalore or Bangalore to relax away from the stressful City life.
2. Mahabaleshwar
Get ready to be greeted by lush green mountains covered by clouds once you enter Maharashtra's western ghats! Known for strawberry farms, fresh ice creams and romantic weather throughout the year. I personally love visiting the strawberry farms and plucking them fresh for the day!
Best places to Stay in Mahabaleshwar
Best things to do in Mahabaleshwar
3. Ooty
A quaint hill town, perched against the backdrop of Doddabetta (2,637 m) is the highest peak in the Nilgiris. Ooty, in Tamil Nadu, is a perfect fusion of old and new, with resorts and homestays looking out at the lush green mountains! A perfect getaway for nature lovers you can commune with the forests of eucalyptus, conifers and pines, and a thick cover of shola trees!
4. Munnar
Set at an altitude of 6,000 ft in the district of Idukki, Munnar was a summer resort of the British rulers during the colonial times. Surrounded by picturesque backdrops with tea plantations, visit this magical place for emerald hills and foggy mornings.
5. Kodaikanal
Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu is set in an area of granite cliffs, forested valleys, lakes, waterfalls and grassy hills. There isn't a shortage of things to do in Kodaikanal, including night safari, boat ride in the lake, hike to the pillars top, a visit to the Guna caves and much more!
Best places to Stay in Kodaikanal
Best things to do in Kodaikanal
7. Chikmagalur
Lush green trees set against the backdrop of majestic Mullayangiri ranges, Chikmagalur is one of the most popular spots for trekkers, nature enthusiasts, thrill-seekers, and explorers. Go on nature walks in the forests and stay at homestays that have the best homely food as you watch the rain falling down!
Best places to Stay in Chikmagalur
Best things to do in Chikmagalur
8. Wayanad
Wayanad is set high on the Western Ghats and is dotted with numerous viewpoints, which offer some of the most fantastic views of the Sahyadri Mountains. Some famous trekking trails in Wayanad are Chembra Peak trek, Brahmagiri Peak trek, Banasura Sagar Dam trek and Pakshipathalam trek.
Best places to Stay in Wayanad
9. Shillong
Shillong is known to be the 'Scotland of the East', this hill station offers picturesque locations and traditions. During the rainy season the forests and the green landscapes of Shillong become absolutely mesmerising! Plan an adventurous trip with your friends and explore the numerous waterfalls during this monsoon season.
Best places to Stay in Shillong
10. Mount Abu
The only hill station located on the border of Rajasthan and Gujarat, Mount Abu is in the lap of Aravalli Mountain. During the monsoons, Nakki Lake, the Sunset Point, Dilwara temples look captivating. An all around the year destination, explore culture, food, trekking and camping in the mountains.
Best places to Stay in Mount Abu
Best things to do in Mount Abu
11. Lambasingi
Fondly known as 'Kashmir of South India', Lambasingi is a lesser explored hill station in Andra Pradesh. This hamlet town is perched 1,000 meters above sea level and perfect for all seasons!
Best places to Stay in Lambasingi
Best things to do in Lambasingi
12. Netarhat
Encircled by low hills, forests and hilly springs, Netarhat is like a secret refuge in the heart of Jharkhand. Blessed with low hills, enchanting forests and springs, these hills were another favourite of the British rulers. It is the highest point on an altitude of 3,700 ft, popularly known as 'Queen of Chotanagpur'. If you are in search of peace and tranquility, this is the place!
Best places to Stay in Netarhat
13. Daringbadi
Daringbadi is known as 'Odisha's very own Kashmir', a hill station located in Kandhamal district. Mesmerising pine forests located at an altitude of 3,000 ft, this is the only place that gets snowfalls in Odisha! Blessed with green valleys this place is perfect for a quiet getaway or even a long stay amid the mountains!
Best places to Stay in Daringbadi
Best things to do in Daringbadi
14. Pachmarhi
Pachmarhi is listed in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve for its flora and fauna. The only hill station in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, this place is known as 'Satpura Ki Rani'. At an level of 1,000 meters in a valley in the district of Hoshangabad, this place is blessed with natural beauty making it a heaven for nature and serenity seekers! You can go for waterfall trekking, zip lining, motor parasailing or Jeep Safari!
Best places to Stay in Pachmarhi
Best things to do in Pachmarhi
15. Saputara
The gigantic Sahyadri mountain range in Gujarat, boasts a picture-perfect hill station of Saputara. Misty hills and green landscapes are perfect for nature lovers, and those who wish to getaway during the monsoon season! Saputara is often called the 'abode of serpents' and derives its name from the snake God that the town’s tribal clan worships.
Best places to Stay in Saputara
Plan a trip to one of these hill stations around India, and let me know which one was your favourite!
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