This summer is definitely turning out to be a nasty one. If you have been thinking of running away to the hills to escape the heat wave, now would be a good time. Enough thinking, just start planning and get going! The best part about living in Delhi NCR is that there are many spectacular hill stations that you can easily travel to without needing a long holiday (some of us don't have that luxury). A great option is Uttarakhand, which houses many incredible hill stations where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayas, breathe in fresh mountain air and soak in as much as green as possible.
Talk about hill stations in Uttarakhand and the usual suspects are Mussoorie, Nainital and Bhimtal or religious destinations like Badrinath, Gangotri, Yamunotri and the like. If you want to beat the crowd and enjoy a peaceful vacay in the lap of nature, then here are 11 options for you:
1. Chamba
The picturesque hill station located on the right bank of river Ravi makes for a great option for camping and trekking. If you have an eye for local arts and crafts, then don't miss the Pahari paintings that are well noted here.
Time from Delhi: 11 hours by road
2. Dhanaulti
Located not too far away from Mussoorie, Dhanaulti is a popular hill station which lets you enjoy a quiet time with spectacular views of the snow capped mountains. Pick a stay amidst the alpine forest and indulge in adventure activities.
Time from Delhi: 8 hours by road
3. Auli
The popular ski destination of Uttarakhand may take you time to reach but it is breathtakingly beautiful. During summer you may miss skiing, but you can go all about trekking.
Time from Delhi: 14 hours by road
4. Kanatal
A perfect summer destination for offbeat travellers, Kanatal is tucked away in the dense forests of Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. It is its unspoilt beauty that makes it a perfect summer destination.
Time from Delhi: 8 1/2 hours by road
5. Binsar
Binsar is an ideal pick not just for those looking for a charming hill station but wildlife enthusiasts too. Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is where you can spot leopard and migratory birds as well as be bowled over by panoramic views of the Himalayas.
Time from Delhi: 10 hours by road
6. Khirsu
Want to cut off and spent a quiet time in the midst of nature? Khirsu is the right pick. As far as your eyes can see, there are only hills around.
Time from Delhi: 9 1/2 hours by road
7. Mukteshwar
What makes Mukteshwar popular is its close proximity to Delhi. Located above the Kumaon hills, it is known for its cliffs that make it a great spot for rock climbing.
Time from Delhi: 8 1/2 hours by road
8. Valley of Flowers
Marked as a World Heritage Site, Valley of Flowers is a paradise for nature lovers. This Himalayan valley is mesmerising and it is said to have been a meditation spot for ancient yogis. A best way to explore the place is to sign up for the 3-day trek that starts from Govind Ghat and ends at Ghangria.
Time from Delhi: 14 hours by road
9. Chaukori
Covered by lush tea gardens, pine and rhododendron trees, Chaukori is probably one of the best spots to enjoy amazing views of Nanda Devi. There are many temples located in and around Chaukori. Pick a cosy resort to stay and soak in green.
Time from Delhi: 12 1/2 hours by road
10. Kausani
Nestled in Kumaon hills, Kasauni makes for a great romantic getaway in the heart of nature. It's a popular pick for trekkers too, where you can sign up for Base Kausani trek, Adi Kailash trek or Bageshwar- Sunderdhunga trek.
Time from Delhi: 11 hours by road
11. Gwaldam
Another pretty hill station in Uttarakhand, you can pamper yourself with nature's beauty. A highlight of visiting Gwaldam is also trekking to Roopkund Lake. It is definitely a memory that will stay with you for life.
Time from Delhi: 12 hours by road
So which destination are you picking for your summer break?
