Here comes the summer,
tempting you to escape to the hills.
For a relaxing getaway,
To stay in a rustic hotel far away.
Overlooking the mountains still covered with snow,
And where the pleasant winds blow!
The warmth in the air tells us that summer is almost here. As plains get unbearably hot during this time of the year, it’s your cue to plan a staycation in the hills. Ah, to be in the midst of nature, with snow-capped mountains keeping the summer heat at bay!
This is why we bring you the top five hill station destinations to visit this summer, along with some of the best places to stay.
Also Read: Here’s Your Ultimate Guide to a Peaceful Getaway to Nepal
McLeod Ganj
A suburb of the peaceful little town of Dharamshala, McLeodGanj is known for its cute cafes and chill vibes. It is the land of mesmerising landscapes, where Indian and Tibetan cultures blend. The Tibetan influence is evident in the monasteries and cuisines of the hill station.
Here are a few places you can stay in on your trip to McLeod Ganj:
1. EKOSTAY – Cherry Brick Villa
This rustic property is located in Dharamshala which is just 4 km away from McLeod Ganj. As this stay is surrounded by the mountains, you’ll be waking up to a stunning view every morning. It also has a garden and a terrace, where you can enjoy your morning tea/coffee.
Prakriti Aalay is the perfect place to stay if you are travelling with your partner. It’s a 4-star resort property with all the modern amenities and also a garden and a terrace. They offer an airport shuttle service and free private parking to their guests as well.
True to its name, the Posh Hotel is an elegant but also affordable property set in McLeod Ganj. The hotel has a great ambience and rooms with a city view, mountain view and quiet street view. Free parking is also available on site.
Auli
A famous winter destination, Auli is just as beautiful and pleasant in summer. The name Auli means ‘meadows’. It is situated in the Chamoli district of Garhwal Himalayas, not very far away from the valley of flowers and the Badrinath temple.
Here are a few places you can stay in on your trip to Auli:
The Casa Himalaya is about 15 km away from Joshimath. Every inch of this resort screams luxury, thanks to its aesthetic interiors and a huge balcony. It is the ideal property for those seeking a relaxing vacation.
Whether you are in Auli with your family, a group of friends or for your honeymoon, the Blackberry Cottages are a great place to stay. These adorable cottages are located 3 km before Auli, so you are away from the crowded areas. They also offer free parking on site.
This one is for travellers looking for a homely feeling, even on a vacation. The Mountain Facing Homestay is located in Joshimath, with mountains surrounding the property. They also offer free parking on the site.
Ooty
Ooty is a quaint little resort town situated in Tamil Nadu. It is surrounded by beautiful mountains and lush green forests, making it every nature lover’s paradise. Officially known as Udhagamandalam, Ooty is famous for its tea plantations, waterfalls and lakes.
Here are a few places you can stay in on your trip to Ooty:
The Beverly Villa is set in a prime location in Ooty. It is just 4 km away from the scenic Ooty Lake and 2 km from the Ooty Botanical Gardens. They offer rooms with a city, mountain, inner courtyard and garden view.
The FabHotel Khems is a plush property suitable for those travelling with family. Some popular tourist attractions near the hotel are the Ooty Rose Garden, Hebron School and Ooty Botanical Gardens. Guests can enjoy Continental breakfast during their stay here.
If you want a mountain view room on your trip to Ooty, book a stay at The Tamarillo. It is the ultimate place to recharge, reconnect and rejuvenate. They offer free onsite parking and paid airport shuttle service.
Mussoorie
The Queen of Hill Stations, Mussoorie is also the queen of scenic views. The weather here is pleasant all year round. When in Mussoorie, you must visit Lal Tibba, Kempty Falls, George Everest and the cosy cafes of Landour.
Here are a few places you can stay in on your trip to Mussoorie:
Away from the bustling markets of Mall Road, the Shining Hills hotel is a cosy property for a relaxing vacation. It features mountain view rooms and a terrace, where you can have evening tea/coffee, while watching the sun go down. There’s private parking available on site, along with a paid airport shuttle service.
2. Treebo Trend Paradise Continental
Looking for affordable stay options in Mussoorie? Treebo Trend Paradise is the place for you. Situated just 1 km away from Mall Road, the hotel offers well-furnished rooms with all the modern amenities. Free private parking is also available.
Karma Vilas By Howard is a gorgeous little property, located about 2 km away from Mall Road. It’s a Victorian-style villa surrounded by mountains. Guests can enjoy Asian, Continental and Italian cuisines at the restaurant here.
Sikkim
A trip to the hills in Sikkim will offer you a much-needed respite from the scorching summer heat. Just like McLeod Ganj, the state also brings together Tibetan and Indian cultures. That is why this mystical land is perfect for a peaceful getaway.
Here are a few places you can stay in on your trip to Sikkim:
Situated in Gangtok, the Chalet Orchid Eco Retreat is surrounded by the Himalayan forests. It is closer to many city attractions, such as Hanuman Tok, Ganesh Tok View Point, and Enchey Monastery.
The Saramsa Resort is a charming hotel with exquisite interiors and exteriors. This property is only 5 km away from the heart of Gangtok. It also has an indoor play area and an entertainment arena.
3. Summit Golden Crescent Resort & Spa
Summit Golden Crescent Resort offers a relaxing and rejuvenating experience to its guests. They have an in-house spa and a wellness centre. You can visit Tashi View Point, Ganesh Tok, and Rumtek Monastery, all of which are within an 8 km radius of the hotel.
Before you go, do check out the travel rules for various destinations. Refer to our COVID guidelines tracker here.
Happy travelling! 😀
