Travel Magazine
Indian hill stations are high altitude towns typically used as summer retreats to escape from the heat of the cities. From forested valley views to lush green tea, coffee and spice plantations they make great destinations for anybody interested in trekking, culture or just some rest and relaxation!
Here is a list of five great hill station destinations to consider for your next trip:
1. Ooty – The summer capital during the British regime, Ooty has many attractions such as the Botanical Garden, Tribal Research Museum, Race Course, Doddabetta view point, Thread Garden and ofcourse the charming hill toy train.
2. Shimla – Shimla is one of North India’s most popular summer spots. Soak in the legacy of its aristocratic occupancy by the British and indulge in activities like a trip to the Jakhu Temple and Kufri and enjoy the bustling mall road, horse rides and misty evenings.
3. Dharamsala – A district set in the wonderful backdrop of the beautiful Kangra Valley, Dharamsala is made up of a few small towns and villages such as McLeod Gan and Kotwali Bazaar and is surrounded by mountains and pine forests., Dharamsala is home to exiled Tibetan leader, His Holiness Dalai Lama and a great destination for a spiritual retreat.
4. Coorg – An essential stop for coffee lovers, Coorg offers breathtaking views over misty hills, teak wood forests and lush green coffee plantations. On the Western Ghats this beautiful hill station is an ideal base for trekking, rafting or just relaxing in beautiful surroundings. The local cuisine is famous and not to be missed!
5. Wayanad - Tropical climate, lush green vicinity and a diverse flora and fauna await you at the North East edge of Kerala. The dramatic landscape of Wayanad offers ample opportunities for forest and mountain trekking through forests, to waterfalls and climbs up the hills and mountains.
This feature was written by Mahindra Homestays on their website there are destination guides available for all these hill stations with information about sights to see and the best time to visit, for example please see their Coorg trip guide.