India is adorned with a myriad of exquisite places, but when it comes to vacationing in the summers, hill stations offer the perfect respite. Let us take you to some of the most charming hill stations of north India, which serve as the perfect summer holiday destinations, easily accessible from the capital.

McLeod Ganj

McLeod Ganj is an emerging summer holiday destinations of India. Immerse yourself in the Tibetan culture with the sumptuous fare and multiple Buddhist temples. Check out the Tsuglagkhang Complex, Men-Tsee-Khang Institute and Kalachakra Temple. 495 km from Delhi, travelling by road will take you roughly 10 hours. The nearest railway station and airport are Pathankot Railway Station and Gaggal Airport, respectively.

Mussoorie

Mussoorie is a pet destination amongst tourists who flock here during vacations. It is dotted with a plethora of nature’s vistas along with mesmerizing temples and the bustling Mall Road. Visit Kempty and Bhatta Falls, Mussoorie Lake, or ride your way up to Gun Hill in a cable car. Being 281 km from Delhi, it will take you 6 hours by road. The nearest railway station and airport are Dehradun Station and Jolly Grant Airport, respectively.

Ranikhet

If you are looking forward to spend some serene moments in the lap of nature, then Ranikhet should definitely be on your list. Filled with intriguing specimens of flora and fauna, Ranikhet serves as a popular destination amongst wildlife photographers and nature lovers. Trek through its many forests or sample authentic Kumaoni fare. Mankameshwar Temple, Chaubatia Gardens, Bhalu Dam and Siyalkhet are some of its popular attractions. 335 km from Delhi, travelling by road is the best option, taking approximately 10-11 hours. The nearest railway station and airport are Kathgodam Railway Station and Pantnagar Aiport, respectively.

Auli

Let your adrenaline flow at the most popular skiing destination in India. Auli is a haven for adventure buffs who come here for skiing and trekking. Witness the enchanting vistas of the place in Asia’s longest cable car which ascends up to 4 km. It is approximately 495 km from Delhi by road and the drive will take around 12 hours. Else, ride up from either the Rishikesh Railway Station or Dehradun Airport.

Nainital

Rejuvenate your soul traversing the picturesque spots of Nainital. The valley town surrounds the peaceful Naini Lake where one can go for boating. Admire the breath-taking beauty of the Himalayas from Snow View, Naini Peak and Tiffin Point. The journey by road, from Delhi to Nainital, will take you approximately 7 hours, with the nearest railway station and airport being Kathgodam Railway Station and Pantnagar Airport, respectively.

Mukteshwar

Bask in the verdant beauty of nature in Mukteshwar. Far from the maddening crowds of the city, you are sure to find serenity here. The must-visit places include orchards of the Central Institute of Temperate Horticulture, expansive deodar forests and stunning snow-peak views. Roughly 333 km from Delhi, travelling by road will take you approximately 7 hours. The nearest railway station and airport are Kathgodam Railway Station and Pantnagar Airport, respectively.

Lansdowne

Lansdowne is an exotic hill station in the Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand. Immerse yourself in various activities like trekking, bird watching and boating. Popular attractions include Tip-n-Top Point, Regiment Museum, St. Mary’s Church, Bhulla Tal and Bhim Pakora. Approximately 252 km from Delhi, the journey by road to Lansdowne will take you roughly 6 hours. The nearest railway station is Kotdwar, while the nearest airport is Dehradun Airport.

Nahan

If you wish to seek solace from the hustle and bustle of the cities, then Nahan is the perfect hill station to visit. Situated in the Shiwalik Hill Range, it is a quaint town with pleasant weather all year round. Get into the peaceful mode by visiting Renuka Lake, Suketi Fossil Park and Trilokpur Temple. Located 265 km away from Delhi, the travel time by road is around 6 hours. The nearest railway station and airport are Barog Railway Station and Chandigarh Airport, respectively.

Shimla

Shimla has stood the test of time and is considered to be one of the most adored hill stations of northern India amongst tourists. Its picturesque views and colonial charms make it the perfect travel destination for a quick getaway. Shop and eat your way through Mall Road and explore nearby attractions such as Chadwick Falls and the Jakhu Temple. Roughly 360 km from Delhi, travelling by road will take around 8 hours. The nearest railway station is Kalka and the nearest airport is Chandigarh Airport.

Kanatal

The isolated hill station of Kanatal is a perfect retreat for all solace seekers. The highest point is Surkanda Devi Temple, which gives a 360-degree view of the majestic Himalayas. While there, also check out the Tehri Dam, the tallest dam in India and one of the tallest in the world. Approximately 300 km from Delhi, the road journey will take you roughly 8 hours. The nearest railway station and airport are Dehradun Railway Station and Jolly Grant Airport, respectively.