Imagine taking a trip to your favourite hill station to seek peace, only to find a swarm of crowd populating your peace of mind and beautiful hill views. While most people would try to adjust in such a situation, that doesn’t mean that you, too, have to. Here are some offbeat hill stations in India which will give you your moment of me-time with great views and a lesser crowd.
Mashobra, Himachal Pradesh
Heaven for cedar and deodar lovers, it’s the perfect escape to recharge the mind amidst the magical Shivalik mountain ranges. Popularly known as ‘Quiet Shimla,’ it’s also famous for its exotic ‘Tibetan Handicraft Market,’ where you can buy some finely crafted souvenirs for your loved ones.
Nearby attractions: Hot water springs of Tattapani river and Chadwick Falls
Nearest airport: Shimla airport (40 km)
Munsiyari, Uttarakhand
Situated at 2298 meters above sea level, Munsiyari is the origin point of multiple trekking expeditions to regions like Nanda Devi Peak and Milam Glaciers. One more thing that adds to its attraction is Panchachuli, a group of five picturesque peaks which are indeed enough to take away all your stress.
Nearby attractions: Namik Glacier and Panchchuli Peaks
Nearest airport: Pantnagar airport (188 km)
Araku Valley, Andhra Pradesh
Walled by a chain of mountains, it’s the best place to go on a road trip through its misty serpentine roads. With an abundance of premium coffee farms around, you won’t be able to resist the urge to try a cup of filter coffee here.
Nearby attractions: Borra Caves and Sangda Waterfall
Nearest airport: Visakhapatnam airport (115 km)
Aru Valley, Kashmir
12 km from Pahalgam, Aru Valley is a small cosy green village surrounded by white Himalayan mountains. Filled with numerous crystal clear lakes, the valley also allows you to try a hand at fishing, whereas adventure seekers can go for trekking expeditions to Lidderwat.
Nearby attractions: Kolahoi Glacier and Tarsar Lake
Nearest airport: Srinagar airport (102 km)
Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Known for its difficult terrain and high altitude, Tawang is a perfect place to go rock climbing. But, what makes it more desirable amongst the tourist is its pilgrimage site Taktsang Gompa which is nested by dense forests and mountains, giving you the best surrounding to go on a deep meditation mode.
Additional attractions: Bumla Pass and Madhuri Lake
Note- It requires a government permit to visit the district, which you will get in New Delhi, Tezpur, Kolkata and Guwahati.
