10 Best Mountain Destinations in India

Summertime is usually the best time to visit mountain destinations and hill stations in India. However, India is a hot country, people love to witness snowfall. Due to this reason, many hill stations and mountain destinations also get a good influx of tourists during the winter months.

We have compiled a list of the 10 best mountain destinations in India that you can travel to.

1. Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh

Dharamshala also known as ‘Dharamsala’ is a popular choice among international travelers. It is a great destination to visit due to its many attractions. The local culture is a unique blend of Tibetan, Punjabi, and local traditions of Himachal Pradesh.

Dharamshala is located in the valley of Kangra and is flooded with tourists from all over the world. Popular attractions include Mcleodganj, Dharamkot village, Dalai Lama Temple, Bhagsunag temple & waterfall, Gyuto Monastery, and Norbulingka institute of arts.

The best time to visit Dharamsala is during the summer months. Monsoon months should be avoided due to the risk of flash floods and landslides. 

2. Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Manali is another popular mountain destination located in the lap of the Himalayas. The milky white sheet of snow is visible throughout the year. Domestic and International tourists visit this place for its natural beauty.

Both summer and winter seasons are great to experience Manali. It is best to avoid traveling during monsoon months. There are several adventure sports such as rafting, rappelling, rock climbing, snowboarding, skiing, paragliding, etc. 

Some of the best tourist attractions include the Solang valley, Hidimba Temple, Saurab Van Vihar, Rohtang Pass, and Manali Sanctuary. The best time to visit Manali is from October till June. 

3. Auli, Uttarakhand

After Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand is a popular state in North India and is a great tourist destination. Auli is considered a jewel of Uttarakhand due to its natural beauty that attracts nature lovers and photographers from all over the world.

Auli is considered the skiing capital of India and it hosts several skiing events every year. There are many ski resorts in Auli that offer skiing courses from experienced professionals. Auli is also known as a spiritual destination for many people. Some of the popular attractions include Joshimath, Hanuman Temple, Nanda Devi National Park, Chenab Lake, and Trishul Peak.

4. Shillong, Meghalaya

Meghalaya is one of the most underrated states in Northeast India. Blessed with natural beauty and great weather Shillong is a hill station worth visiting. The landscape of Shillong is defined by pine trees, gushing waterfalls, and gorgeous lakes. 

Hundreds of tourists visiting Shillong call it ‘Scotland of the East’ due to its resemblance to Scotland’s natural beauty. Some of the major attractions of Shillong include Nonglait Park, Lady Hydari Park, Elephant falls, and Umiam Lake. The best time to visit Shillong is from the summer months of March till June.

5. Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir

Gulmarg in Jammu & Kashmir is blessed with natural beauty like no other. Gulmarg is particularly known as a honeymoon destination but it is much more than that. It is also a popular skiing destination with several ski resorts for skiing enthusiasts. 

Other adventure activities that tourists can experience are trekking, mountaineering, and snowboarding. Some of the most popular tourist attractions include the Gulmarg Golf course, Maharani Temple, Strawberry Valley, and Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve. The best time to visit Gulmarg is from April to June.

6. Leh-Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir

The rugged landscapes, Buddhist monasteries, and clean rivers attract adventurers and spiritual seekers from all over the world. Situated at a height of over 3400 meters, Leh-Ladakh has the world’s highest motorable road. Motorcyclists travel from all over India to reach Leh-Ladakh as the final destination of their journey. 

Some of the most popular attractions include Pangong Lake, Shanti Stupa, and Thiksey Monastery. The best time to visit Leh-Ladakh is from April to June. During this short period, the weather allows the tourists to have a safe journey.

7. Ooty, Tamil Nadu

Situated in the lap of Nilgiri Hills and blessed with gorgeous scenic beauty, Ooty is paradise in South India with its many botanical gardens, clear lakes, and tea gardens. Many consider Ooty as their favorite summer destination.

One of the major attractions in Ooty is the famous UNESCO Heritage site called ‘Nilgiri Mountain Railway’. Other popular attractions include Ooty Lake, Ooty Rose Garden, Kalhatti Falls, and Tiger Hill. The best time to visit Ooty is from March to June.

8. Darjeeling, West Bengal

Among nature lovers and photographers, Darjeeling is a jewel of a destination. It is also a great choice for couples on their honeymoon. The scenic views of the Kanchenjunga mountain range with tea plantations highlight the beauty of Darjeeling. 

Some of the major attractions of Darjeeling include Batasia Loop, Tiger Hill, Singalila National Park, and Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park. The best time to visit Darjeeling is from April till June.

9. Gangtok, Sikkim

Another great destination in Northeast India is known for its natural beauty, natural lakes, waterfalls, and Buddhist monasteries. Tourists visit Gangtok for a peaceful vacation and many of its popular attractions. Attractions such as Tsomgo Lake, Ban Jhakri Falls Park, Sikkim Himalayan Zoological Park, Seven Sister waterfall, and Nathula Pass are famous among the tourist community.

Tourists can also enjoy several activities such as river rafting, mountain biking, trekking, and Yak safari. The best time to visit Gangtok is from September to October.

10. Coorg, Karnataka

The famous Western Ghats is famous for its scenic natural beauty and its plantations of spices and coffee. For nature lovers and photographers, there are beautiful lakes, waterfalls, forts, and temples to experience. 

Some of the best activities to experience in Coorg include trekking, Jeep Safari, and Ayurvedic massages. The best attractions to see include Iruppu Falls, Omkareshwara Temple, Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, and Namdroling Monastery. The best time to visit Coorg is from October to March.