At an altitude between 2,500 and 3,050 meters above sea level, Auli offers stunning views of peaks like Nanda Devi, Mana Parvat, and Kamet. Be it the Auli snow in January, the December holiday, or a trekking trip in summer, this destination offers it all. 

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Auli Famous Places You Should Not Miss 

• Gurso Bugyal
• Chattrakund Lake
• Kwani Bugyal
• Auli Artificial Lake
• Joshimath
• Trishul Peak

Gurso Bugyal 

• Just 3 km from Auli, this meadow is pure Himalayan magic. In spring it is green with tranquility. In winter it changes into a white wonderland. It is considered one of the best Auli viewpoints for photography. 

Chattrakund Lake; 

• A small lake with clear water is surrounded by forests. Small trekking routes are available. Anyone searching for Chattrakund Lake, Auli details must visit. 

Kwani Bugyal 

• A favourite among trekkers; It is situated about 12 km from Gurso Bugyal and offers serene views of the mountains and is best suited between June and September. 

Auli Artificial Lake 

• One of the world’s highest manmade lakes, designed to assist in creating artificial snow for skiing. It is created to help form artificial snow for skiing. 

Joshimath – Nearby Place to See 

• Just 16 km away, Joshimath is a spiritual town and the base point for the Auli trips. You can also take the famous Auli ropeway from here. 

Trishul Peak 

• A dream for photographers and adventure enthusiasts. Photographers and those who like to venture here would always like to come for sunrise views, which are unforgettable in winter snow months. 

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Things to Do in Auli | Adventure Guide 

• Skiing and Snowboarding (Peak Winter Season) 
• Cable car ride from Joshimath to Auli 
• Trekking to bugyals and alpine lakes 
• Camping under clear Himalayan skies 
• Stay options range from budget stays to hostels like Zostel 

That is why Auli has turned out to be the best place for honeymoon trips, winter holidays, and family tours. 

Best Month to Visit Auli 

• December to February – Ideal for Snowfall and Skiing 
• March to June – Pleasant weather and green meadows 
• September to November – Clear view of the mountains 
• If you want real snow, plan Auli in January or late December. 

How to Reach Auli 

• By Air: Nearest airport is Dehradun (279 km). 
• The nearest railway station is Haridwar. 
• By Road: By road, one should come to Joshimath first. Auli is 16 km from there. 

FAQs 

• What is the best month for Auli? 
  December to February for snow. March to June for the pleasant weather. 

• Is Auli called Mini Switzerland?
  Yes, many travelers call Auli Mini Switzerland because of its snowy slopes and scenic beauty.

• What is Auli known for? 
  Auli is famous for skiing, ropeway rides, Himalayan views, bugyal meadows and peaceful mountain stays.

Check out some best places for Valentine’s Day this year:

• Udaipur
• Manali
• Goa
• Munnar
• Jaipur
  

Udaipur: Feel like a Movie Set

Check out Romantic destinations for Couples!

As everyone know Udaipur is the most romantic city in India. It just feels different there. You have these giant palaces right in the middle of lakes.

You don’t even need a big plan here. Just take a boat ride on Lake Pichola when the sun is going down. It’s quiet, pretty, and feels super fancy. Feel like a prince and to be treated with royalty for a weekend, this spot works for you.

Manali: Cuddling Weather

If you two love the cold, head to Manali. There is something really nice about wearing big sweaters, holding hands to stay warm, and seeing snow everywhere.

Old Manali has these cute little cafes where you can just sit, drink hot chocolate and talk for hours. It’s a very vibing with your loved ones. There’s no rushing for you to sightseeing; just enjoy the “sweater weather”.

Goa: The Quiet Side

Okay, I know everyone thinks Goa is just for loud parties. But if you go to South Goa, it’s a whole different world.

Imagine walking on a beach with no crowds, watching sunset and just listening to the waves. Make your vacation stress-free. Too add spark, a candlelit dinner by the ocean wins over a fancy restaurant any day.

Munnar: Just You and Nature

If you want to get away from noise, traffic & people, go to Munnar. It is just green tea gardens and misty hills as far as you can see.
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It’s the kind of place where you wake up early, drink tea, and go for long walks. It feels very private. If your perfect date is silence and beautiful views, pick this one.

Jaipur: Rooftops and Sunsets

Jaipur is great if you want a mix of everything history, shopping & good food. The “Pink City” looks amazing in photos.

The best part? The evenings. Find a restaurant with a rooftop view. Eating dinner while looking at the lit-up forts is magical. It’s romantic but also fun because there is so much to see during the day.

Why a Trip is Better?

Gifts are nice, but experiences stay with you forever. Years from now, the T-shirt you bought will end up in the back of a wardrobe, and the chocolates will be long gone. But you will always remember shivering in the snow in Manali or laughing on a boat in Udaipur

FAQs:

Where should we go?

• Want luxury? Udaipur.
• Want snow? Manali.
• Want the beach? Goa.
• Want peace and quiet? Munnar.

What’s the #1 spot?
Most couples pick Udaipur. It just has that classic romantic vibe that is hard to beat.

Which place is best for Valentine’s Day?
It depends on your vibe. Udaipur for luxury romance, Manali for cozy mountain love, Goa for beach moments, and Munnar for peaceful nature escapes.

Which is the most romantic place in India?
Udaipur is often considered the most romantic place in India due to its lakes, palaces, and timeless atmosphere.

India’s best islands based on the categories

1. Size of the island

• Umananda Island, Assam:
  This smallest island in India is located in Assam and in the middle of the River Brahmaputra. It is also known by the name of ‘Peacock Island’ and houses an ancient Shiva temple.
  
• Great Nicobar Island, Andaman and Nicobar:
  By area, this is found to be the largest and best island in the country, with a spread of about 920 square kilometres. People visit this island to explore the mesmerising rainforests.

2. Perfect for a honeymoon

• Neil Island, Andaman and Nicobar:
  Such an offbeat island belonging to Ritchie’s Archipelago in the Andaman! Staying at a private cruise ship on this island can be the most romantic move of your life.
  
• Bangaram Island, Lakshadweep:
  Walking along the emerald waters, admiring the coral reefs, etc, are the best activities in this atoll in Lakshadweep. If you’re a newly married couple, then you must visit this island in India for your honeymoon and stay in one of their lovely cottages.
  
• Agatti Island, Lakshadweep:
  Imagine holding the hands of your life partner and gazing at the turquoise waters under the moonlight! Whoa! What an amazing gateway for intimacy and romance!

3. Beauty and serenity

• Havelock Island, Andaman and Nicobar:
  Located between Andaman’s Neil and Peel islands, this houses Asia’s best beach—Radhanagar Beach. Being a part of eco-tourism in Andaman, this is the most beautiful and serene vacation destination.
  
• Kadmat Island, Lakshadweep:
  This island features lagoons with corals, sea turtles, seagrass, and exquisite beaches. No doubt, this tops the list of beautiful islands in India.
  
• Majuli River Island, Assam:
  This island holds the pride of being the first island to become a district in the country. Bird watching here on this island will make you a repeat visitor to this island. Handicrafts are quite famous here.

4. Water sports

• Kadmat Island, Lakshadweep:
  The clear waters ensure amazing scuba diving experiences on this Lakshadweep island. People also like to experience snorkelling here. Notably, the first Water Sports Institute was established only on this island. Looking for scuba diving sites? Visit Kadmat in Lakshadweep.
  
• Divar Island, Goa:
  This is another river island in Goa that’s known for water sports, such as skiing, sailing, kayaking, and zorbing. So, visit this island with a large group of friends to maximise the fun.

Frequently asked questions

1. What is the most beautiful island in India?

India has the most unique islands with unique features such as pristine waters, white sand, amazing corals, etc. Thus, each island is unique and beautiful in its characteristic features, and by any chance, no less than the others. However, online reports and unofficial statistics claim that people call Havelock Island the most beautiful one in the country.    

2. How many islands does India house?

Official reports claim that the country houses more than one thousand three hundred islands. The major group of islands includes Andaman and Nicobar, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu, and the Lakshadweep Islands.

3. Which is the cheapest island to visit in India?

According to the latest expert reports, the top three islands in India that are cheapest include Divar Island in Goa, Kavvayi Island in Kerala, and Little Andaman in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. 

4. How about ‘7 islands’?

‘The city of seven islands of India’ was a popular term for a particular city that houses a group of seven islands, unlike any other city in the country. However, today, people call this city by the name ‘Mumbai’ and not by ‘7 islands’ anymore.

Look at some best places to visit in Monsoon!

Here are places in India that are safe to visit during the monsoon:

Coorg, Karnataka

Imagine waking up to rain-kissed coffee estates and rolling green hills. That’s classic Coorg. Even when it pours, the main roads stay solid, and locals have everything running smoothly. It’s not just pretty—the roads are generally solid, and life goes on even when it rains.

Udaipur, Rajasthan

People picture the desert when they think of Rajasthan, but Udaipur in monsoon is honestly stunning. The lakes fill up, the city looks clean and vibrant, and it’s cooler than usual. It almost feels like a calm holiday from the usual crowds.

Munnar, Kerala

If you’ve ever wanted to just be surrounded by green as far as you can see, this is it. Munnar after the first downpour is like a fresh start for nature—tea gardens everywhere, mist in the mornings, and friendly local guest house owners who look out for you if the weather gets wild.

Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

Kodaikanal invites you to just chill. Walk through forests, sit by quiet lakes, or just enjoy a book with the rain tapping on your window. It’s one of those places where the rain feels friendly instead of scary, and getting around hardly ever becomes an issue.

Check out these UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Tamil Nadu!

Lonavala, Maharashtra

This is the spot where Mumbaikars run off to when city life gets stuffy. If you love waterfalls and green hills, especially after a good rain, you’ll fit in here. Roads are usually well-kept and if something does go wrong, help is never far away.

Why these Places are Safe to visit in Monsoon:

• You can actually get there and get around, even when the weather’s wild.
• Locals know how to handle the rain—they’ve seen it all before!
• Serious issues like flooding or landslides are uncommon, but if something does pop up, you’ll get help.
• Most places stay open, and it’s fun to just walk, hike, or laze around.

FAQ:

Which place is safe to visit during monsoon?

The five up there—Coorg, Udaipur, Munnar, Kodaikanal, and Lonavala. We’ve recommended them over and over, and friends have returned happy every time.

Is ooty safe during monsoon?

Sometimes, but it can get really rainy and foggy, and there’s that occasional landslide risk. If you go, just keep tabs on the weather and don’t risk it if things look bad locally.

Is Kodaikanal safe in monsoon?

Yes, it’s one of the smoother monsoon destinations for sure. You might get wet, you’ll definitely get misty mornings, but the town keeps going, and the mood is always relaxed.

If you feel like skipping the planning trouble, give Emperor Traveline a call. They know these places, they’re good at what they do, and they’ll save you a bunch of “what do I do now?” stress.

Sometimes, travel is about letting the weather surprise you—go with it, pack your rain jacket, and see the side of India most people miss. If you need more details or want it in an even more personal tone, just say the word.

Check out Stree- free to travel with a Travel agency!!

Top 10 Travel Accessories

1. Multipurpose bags
2. Waterproof bags
3. Toiletries
4. Weatherproof essentials
5. Luggage locks
6. First aid kits
7. Necessary tools
8. Water/light essentials
9. Mobile apps for travel
10. Makeup kits

1. Multipurpose bags

These bags have multiple functionalities and utilities. For example, you can either carry them, use them as a backpack, or have them on your shoulders. It has several compartments, pockets, and holders to pack versatile items. You can easily buy the best backpacks for travel from e-commerce sites.

2. Waterproof bags

Bags with an elastic, adjustable cover are called waterproof or rainproof. They are perfect when traveling to places in and around water, like islands, cruises, mountains, etc.

3. Toiletries

A must-have collection for everyone and any tourist destination—brushes, toothpaste, soaps, hand or body washes, shampoo, mirror, and towel. These are essential to ensure hygiene and protect ourselves from external contaminations or infections.

4. Weatherproof essentials

A packing list must include this set of items. Be it summer or winter, the respective weatherproof apparel has to be carried. For example, jackets, socks, overcoats, hats, sunscreen, shoes, etc.

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5. Luggage locks

If you do not have a bag with a widely accepted inbuilt TSA lock, then you need to carry your private luggage locks to protect your belongings from unnecessary damage.

6. First aid kits

They are badly needed for travelers attempting risky or adventurous activities like hiking, trekking, etc. They are helpful not only for small injuries but sometimes can save lives. They are especially considered one of the vital road trip essentials.

7. Necessary tools

Tools or accessories, like adaptors, power banks, air tags, travel pillows, socks, locks, sanitizers, hooks, ropes, screwdrivers, or similar emergency articles, are necessary for anyone to survive unforeseen situations. You can carry a mini-tool kit that saves space.

8. Water/light essentials

The first and foremost necessity for any life is water and light. Thus, travel-friendly water bottles and lights top the list of travel essentials and are found to be extremely useful for many travelers.

9. Mobile apps for travel

Yes, downloading travel-friendly or language-translating mobile applications on your device is a unique prerequisite when traveling to unfamiliar or foreign tourist places. Certainly, this is not an item or accessory that you need to pack but install on your mobile phones for easy navigation, communication, exploration, etc.

10. Makeup kits

Of course, these are the primary travel accessories for women these days. One reason is that they are fond of photographs and another reason is that they want to wear makeup and present themselves neat and appealing.

There are a lot more must-haves when it comes to traveling short or long. However, each travel is unique. So, consider altering this list as per your needs—specific to places, persons, and activities.

Frequently asked questions

What to pack for a ten-day trip?

A 10-day trip is quite a long one; you must pack everything from clothing to snacks, towels to toiletries, essentials to add-ons, etc. Based on the travel destination and your physical health, you may or may not need thermal wear, raincoats, boots, water bottles, or emergency medicines. So, you first need to prepare a customized checklist of items you require for that particular travel.

What is the best cosmetic bag for travel? ​​

Any best cosmetic bag must have multiple compartments for travel-size and full-size cosmetic products and added features, like detachable pockets, transparent holders, and zipped cases. According to Business Insider, the top brand choices include Kusshi Signature Makeup Bag, Calpak Large Clear Cosmetics Case, Quince Italian Leather Pouch Travel Set, and Leatherology Clamshell Makeup Bag Set.

What travel items make travel easier?

Today, we have several innovative and creative products on the market that make your travel easier. It could be as simple as a luggage weighing scale, reusable water bottles, multiport/adapters, space-saving bags, packing cubes, sleep masks, and honestly, this is a never-ending list.

India’s Top 7 Best Places to Celebrate New Years

• North Goa, Goa
• New Delhi
• Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
• Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir
• Bangalore, Karnataka
• Puducherry
• McLeod Ganj, Himachal Pradesh

New

Year

North Goa, Goa

One of the most happening places on New Year’s Eve in India is Goa. From New Year parties to beachside celebrations, from dance shows to enthusiastic games, etc., Goa has everything to entertain you. The nightlife in this party capital of India is unforgettable.

Places to visit: Casino, nightclubs, and beach-front resorts

New Delhi

Not only New Delhi but also the nearby places, like Gurgaon and Noida, are New Year destinations. They host several New Year’s dance and music parties at nightclubs and hotels. Do join the tribe, taste the munchies, meet celebrities, and have fun. Also, do not miss the fireworks showcases.

Party places to visit: Smaaash Ambience Mall, Kitty Su, European Foodhall at AnnaMaya, The Hong Kong Club, Aerocity

Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

If you’re someone looking to celebrate this New Year in the most rooted and traditional way, visit Jaisalmer. Yes, you can enjoy the desert sunset, camel rides on golden sands, light shows at the famous forts, etc. The three things that make the Jaisalmer New Year party special are music, food, and tranquility.

Things to do: participating in cultural programs, touring and safaris, staying in desert camps, enjoying Arabian Night Music, etc.

Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir

Is there a rule that hill stations are meant only for holiday vacations and honeymoon trips? Not at all. In fact, at Gulamrg, the Department of Tourism hosts grand festivities every year on this occasion. Music concerts, light shows, sports, games, and golf course events will not fail to impress you.

Special activities: snowboarding, night skiing, gondola rides, museum visits, and waterfall visits.

Bangalore, Karnataka

Beach parties, no chance. Night parties, yes. Best New Year party in Bangalore, definitely yes! Bangalore in Karnataka is a vibrant place to spend your New Year’s Eve. Forget yourself with the flavorful cocktails and mocktails and immerse yourself in the new year vibe with your family and friends.

Places to visit: MG Road, any rooftop hotel, DJs & pubs, St. Mary’s Basilica, parks, sports clubs, etc.

Puducherry, Tamil Nadu

This place is known for its French Colonial architecture and ambiance. So, you can expect contemporary parties and events during the New Year celebration. Thus, if anyone asks us, “Where is the best place to spend the new year in South India?”—our first choice is always Puducherry.

What’s so special? Distinguished dance parties, beach events, fireworks, unlimited food and drink, concerts, DJs, and many more.

McLeod Ganj, Himachal Pradesh

The last on the list, but not least, is one of the best places to spend New Year’s Eve. Locally, people call it the “Halda” festival, which signifies prayers for prosperity. It is a particular place in Dharamshala that houses on the foothills of the Great Himalayas.

Things to do: trekking, watching sunrise/sunset, adventurous activities, camping, live music, and dance parties. This is also a Holiday destination

How can we celebrate New Year in India?

Well, it depends on the type of trip you’re planning. When touring with friends, party places and beaches are the best choices. When traveling with families or elders, sightseeing and tranquil places are the right picks. So, with whom are you traveling this New Year 2025?

The specialty of UNESCO World Heritage Sites

As a service to humankind, UNESCO, the UN’s Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization, aims to identify and preserve such heritage properties worldwide. Irrespective of the territory, UNESCO heritage sites belong to and inspire all the people across the globe. Every property belongs to one of the three categories: cultural, natural, or mixed.

The latest list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Tamil Nadu

As per the latest list by UNESCO, there are forty-three properties or sites in India, of which two to four are part of Tamil Nadu.

1. Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram

Inscribed in 1984, this UNESCO site is located along the Coromandel coast of Chingleput district in Tamil Nadu. Established by the Pallava Kings between the 6th and 9th centuries, these monuments, including the temples, rock reliefs, mandapaas, and rathaas, were carved from rocks, depicting chariots, with thousands of Lord Shiva’s sculptures. The four criteria that acclaimed this group of monuments as a UNESCO site include:

• a human-made masterpiece
• developments in architecture
• associated with the living traditions, beliefs, and arts of Pallavas
• unique testimony to cultural, tradition, or civilization

Undoubtedly, tourists looking for historical places in Tamilnadu can visit these masterpieces by the people of the Pallava civilization.

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2. Great Living Chola Temples

Inscribed in 1987, this UNESCO site stands as the epitome of architectural developments and advancements by the Chola dynasty. Established in the 9th century, this site encapsulates three living temples—the Brihadisvara at Thanjavur, the Brihadisvara at Gangaikondacholapuram, and the Airavatesvara at Darasuram. The two criteria for selecting this as an exemplary heritage site by UNESCO include:

• Outstanding architectural conception
• a distinct example of the Chola civilization

No tourist operator or agent will miss adding these temples to your cultural tourism itinerary in Tamilnadu.

These are the two major UNESCO cultural heritage sites in Tamil Nadu. However, later UNESCO added the mountain railways of India and the hilly chain of Western Ghats to the list in 1999 and 2012 respectively. Certainly, parts of these two sites, such as the Nilgiri Mountain Railway and the Nilgiri/Anamalai/Podhigai Hills (Western Ghats), are covered in the Tamil Nadu region.

Both of them fall under the natural category for their biodiversity, and hence these are considered when discussing UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Tamilnadu.

3. Mountain Railways of India

This is a collection of three mountain railways in India, namely:

• Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (6 zigzag reverses and 3 loops)
• Kalka Shimla Railway (world’s longest tunnel)
• Nilgiri Mountain Railway (unique rack & pinion traction)

4. Western Ghats

These sites are almost a mix of natural and cultural spots. It covers hills, plateaus, national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, reserved forests, and the culture of the people in these localities.

• Northern Western Ghats (Sahyadri Hills)
• Central Western Ghats (Kudremukh and Niligiri Hills)
• Southern Western Ghats (Anamalai Hills and Malabar Coastal Hills)

Click here for a customized itinerary for Upcoming tour packages!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Nilgiris a World Heritage Site?

• Yes, the Nilgiri mountain range of Western Ghats, with 24 peaks, is located in the northwestern region of Tamil Nadu and is listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in the name of Western Ghats of India.

2. How many world heritage sites are there in Tamil Nadu?

• There are two cultural heritage sites and two natural heritage sites in Tamil Nadu. The cultural ones are living Chola temples and the Mahabalipuram monuments. The natural ones are the Western Ghats and Nilgiri Mountain Railway.

3. What is the rich heritage of Tamil Nadu?

• Of course, the first site—the Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram—is renowned as the rich heritage site of Tamil Nadu. However, the Great Living Chola Temples are not any lesser.

Below are the seven best tourist places in Assam, India, curated by Emperor Traveline.

Best Places to Visit in Assam: Top 7 Tourist Destinations

1. Guwahati
2. Kaziranga National Park
3. North Cachar Hills
4. Majuli Island
5. Haflong Lake and Hills
6. Barak Valley
7. Kamakhya Temple

Guwahati

Located at the foot of the Shillong plateau, Guwahati is a gateway to Northeast India. The Assam State Museum, with innumerable artifacts, is located here. Families traveling with children must visit the Guwahati Planetarium to explore space and learn astrophysics!

Things to do in Guwahati: Assam sightseeing, Cruising the Brahmaputra River, Birdwatching, Wildlife safari
Best time to visit: October to February

Kaziranga National Park

Spread across around 1,100 square kilometers, this ranks number one on the list of the best tourist places in Assam. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. One-horned rhinos, Bengal tigers, and Bengal foxes make this National Park world famous. It is commendable to see the park well preserved despite the tourists flocking here.

Things to do in Kaziranga Park: Jeep safaris, Elephant safaris, and other wildlife safaris
Best time to visit: October to March

Plan your Vacation to Assam Now!!

North Cachar Hills

Are you looking for unique places to visit in Assam? Then this is a great choice, as it has beautiful landscapes, burbling waterfalls, and streams. This tourist attraction in Assam is the home of many tribal communities and is locally called “Dima Hasao.”

Things to do in North Cachar Hills: Interacting with aboriginal tribal people, sightseeing, and strolling
Best time to visit: October to February

Majuli Island

This Assam tourist spot is a fantastic and must-visit destination. It is one of the many riverine islands formed by the Brahmaputra River. Notably, this is the largest riverine island in the world. When touring here, do visit Kamalabari Satra and Samaguri Satra

Things to do on Majuli Island: Birdwatching, Experiencing the homestays, and Fishing
Best time to visit: November to March

Haflong Lake and Hills

Among the best tourist places in Assam, this hill region occupies a special place. The hill has a viewpoint at its peak and is most loved by adventure seekers. It has lush green grasslands and azure-blue lake waters to captivate tourists.

Things to do in Haflong Lake and Hills: Trekking, Hiking, Boating, and Bird Suicide Observatory
Best time to visit: November to January

Barak Valley

While most Assam destinations are located in and around the Brahmaputra River, this valley is found around the Barak River. Couples choose this tourist destination for its utmost serenity and peace.

Things to do in Barak Valley: Exploring Silchar and Cachar towns, Badarpur Fort, Photography, and Shopping
Best time to visit: April to July

Kamakhya Temple

You cannot see one Assam tour package or an Assam tourism catalog not covering this temple. It is one of the ancient Hindu temples in Assam. The deities Lord Shiva and Daksha Yagna are worshipped to protect oneself from evil eyes. Though there are many spiritual places in Assam, this is a distinguished religious destination.

Things to do in Kamakhya Temple: Nilachal Hills, Ambubachi festival, Divine blessings
Best time to visit: October to May

Did you know? Visiting Assam is such a tranquil experience, and you cannot miss it if you’re in India.

Conclusion

Popularly called the land of blue hills, Assam is a wonderful, mesmeric, and untapped destination in India for most travelers. So, plan your vacation to Assam and start exploring nature with flora & fauna.

In this blog, we’ve curated the eleven best hill stations in North India for you to plan your vacation this year 2023. As the Himalayan belt majorly crosses the states of Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Uttarakhand, most of the North Indian hill stations house only here. 

Eleven Most Popular Hill Stations in North India

Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir

An absolutely serene touring destination that mesmerizes you with its lakes, gardens, and cultural sites. This capital city of Jammu and Kashmir stands top of the list of best hill stations in North India.   

Top things to do in Srinagar: Boating, Cultural tour, Shikara ride

Places to visit: Dal Lake, Char Chinar, Tulip Garden, Nishat & Shalimar Bagh

Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir

You can witness snow-clad mountains in winter and lush green-scapes in summer here. It has one of the world’s largest golf clubs and serves as a great destination if you’re an adventure seeker!

Top things to do in Gulmarg: Gondola ride, skiing 

Places to visit: Indian Institute of Skiing, Golf Club, Alpather Lake

Manali, Himachal Pradesh

An epitome of culture, heritage, and biodiversity! This is popular both as a honeymoon destination and summer hill station in North India. Do not miss the splashing waterfalls, alluring meadows, and astonishing viewpoints.    

Top things to do in Manali: Trekking, Strolling, Shopping 

Places to visit: Mall Road,  Pir Panjal Range, Rohtang Pass, Hidimba Temple, Jog Falls

More attractions in Manali >>>

Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

This place acts as a gateway to spectacular mountains, holy temples/ churches, enriched flora/ fauna, and snowy winters. Unfortunately, this is not one of the offbeat hill stations in North India and tourists flock to this place every season. 

Top things to do in Shimla: Toy train ride, Trekking, Strolling

Places to visit: Mall Road, Jakhoo Temple, Kufri, Green Valley, Bird Park, The Ridge 

Mussoorie, Uttarakhand

Located on the foothills of the Garhwal range of the Himalayas, you can expect perfect tranquility here. If you’re planning for a North India tour, then remember to add this destination. 

Top things to do in Mussoorie: Paragliding, Wildlife safari, Horse riding, Rafting

Places to visit: Bazar Road, George Everest House, Mussoorie Lake, Bhatta & Mossy Falls, Lal Tibba, Gun Hill Point

Nainital, Uttarakhand

Popularly called the “City of Lakes,” this place is housed amidst the Kumaon hills of the Himalayas. Experience the emerald lakes, stellar peaks, and breathtaking viewpoints.  

Top things to do in Nainital: Boating, Rope riding, Trekking, Mountaineering

Places to visit: Naini Lake, Naina Devi temple, Tiffin Top, Bhimtal, Jim Corbett National Park

Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh

One of the unique hill stations wherein you enjoy the monasteries more than mountains with snow-caps. This is definitely an offbeat hill station in North India. 

Top things to do in Dharamshala: Walkthrough amid Cedar trees, Visit Buddhist Monasteries   

Places to visit: Kangra Valley, Dhauladhar Ranges, St. John Church

Leh, Jammu & Kashmir

Amongst the best hill stations to visit in North India in summer, this is a perfect choice for young tourists and backpackers. It has crystal-clear lakes, cultural sites, and amazing landscapes.

Top things to do in Leh: Biking, Trekking, Cultural tour

Places to visit: Leh Palace, Pangong Lake, Magnetic Hill, Nubra Valley, Shanti Stupa

Almora, Uttarakhand

A place rich in British/ cultural heritage, wildlife, and cuisine. It is renowned for its unique handicrafts. Though it has picturesque mountains, people call it the “Town of Temples” as it has numerous Hindu temples. 

Top things to do in Almora: Temple Visit, Shopping, Mountaineering 

Places to visit: Jageshwar, Kesar Devi Temple, Zero Point, Nanda Devi Temple, Chitai Temple

Auli, Uttarakhand

This place is a heaven on earth with snow-covered hills, ancient hill resorts, and apple orchards. Visit this place in winter to experience enthralling skiing and ropeway. Indeed, a must visit hill station in North India. 

Top things to do in Auli: Skiing, Viewpoint, Rope ride, Strolling

Places to visit: Trishul Peak, Joshimath, Chattrakund Lake

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Spiti, Himachal Pradesh

Apiti Valley separates India from Tibet and is famous for its rugged desert-like terrains. This place experiences the coldest climate in India as it lies above ~12,500 feet above sea level.  

Top things to do in Spiti: Solitude walks, Cold desert mountain trekking, hiking, camping

Places to visit: Chandratal Lake, Pin Valley National Park, Kunzum Pass, Key Monastery

• The temple is linked to the famous Sri Krishna Temple in Guruvayoor. The idol of the temple is held sacred on a par with Parthasarthi that is posing with a whip in the right hand and a sacred Shanku (conch) in the other hand.
• The Palpayasa Nedyam or Payasam, in the form of a sweet pudding prepared of rice and milk, served in this temple is delectable and highly popular amongst devotees. Legend has it that Lord Guruvayoorappan himself visits this temple everyday to have Payasam.
• It is widely believed by the locals that Lord Krishna showed up in the form of a sage and played chess with the king, a chess enthusiast, who ruled that time. The king was challenged by the sage to offer him a grain of rice if he emerges victorious, with the condition that each square would double the grain of rice. The king having lost the game was happy to donate the grain of rice but he soon realized this vicious game of doubling the grain of rice on each square as he ran short of the food grain stock. However Lord Krishna, benevolent in his name, grants him a favour to pay him in part and serve paal payasam until and unless he clears his debt. 
• Adopting Kerala style architecture, the temple boasts of a splendid construction displaying a beautiful painting of different avatars of Lord Vishnu in its premises, a centre-piece of attraction.
• Most of all, Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple is notoriously famous for its magical acts and the annual Ottanthullal ritual. 
• The main festival of this shrine is Chambakulam Moolam celebrated on the Moolam Day every year.  This place is always buzzing with pilgrims and tourists to receive the blessings from Lord Krishna.  The popular Aaraattu festival during the months of March and April begins with the flag hoisting on the Atham star. Pallipana is celebrated in the temple once in every 12 years.