India’s hill stations, famed for their stunning scenery and cool air, were formed by the British during their colonial rule. Located at an altitude ranging between 1000m-2500m, these towns, formally known as hill stations, are elevated from their adjacent valleys and plains, thus affording a refuge from India’s sweltering summer heat. Beyond stunning scenery, lush green hills and snow-capped peaks, these retreats, found throughout India, offer a host of outdoor adventure travel activities for families: Mountaineering, trekking, kayaking, skiing, mountain biking, climbing and paragliding are only some of the adventures on offer.
Shimla - View from Mall
Stained Glass Window in St. Michaels
Most of India’s hill stations are located in the north. Perched on the hilltops at the foothills of the Himalayas in Himachal Pradesh state, Shimla, the state’s capital, and Manali are among the most popular hill stations. Rediscovered and developed by the British since 1819, Shimla, carved on a mountain top at a height of 2196 m is breathtaking. With its colonial charm, it cool mountain breezes and lush pine forests, Shimla is the “queen of hill stations” and the summer capital of British India. Its snow-capped peaks, beautiful valleys, cascading waterfalls and lovely lakes make it magical. The region is dotted with temples and religious sites, among them St. Michael’s Cathedral, once considered India’s finest, and a masterpiece of stained glass construction. Not far,Narkanda offers amazing skiing slopes and other adventure activities in the region include trekking, river rafting, heli-skiing and fishing.
Shimla the Ridge photo by Betelgeuse from Wikimedia Commons
St. Michaels Cathedral
Skiing in Manali
Tibetan Temple in Manali by Mya M. from Wikimedia commons
Hirimba Temple Manali
Delwarra in Mount Abu
Situated amidst a barren desertscape, Mount Abu is the only hill station in the state of Rajasthan. This picturesque town is a green oasis with a stunning collection of exquisite Dilwara Jain temples, renowned for their architectural beauty and dating to the 11th century. Situated on the highest peak of the Aravalli range, Mount Abu is considered a holy place and is a center for religious pilgrimages. Once the retreat for royals and later for the British, Mount Abu abounds with rivers, lakes, waterfalls, lush green forests and beautifully landscaped gardens. The hill station is home to a wildlife sanctuary housing over 800 species of plants and a wide variety of wildlife, including leopard, sloth bear, wild boar, and samhar and jungle cat.
The numerous hill stations of North India offer the perfect off-the-beaten-path retreat for adventure travel holidays, relaxation and just sharing quality time with family and friends when traveling in India.