When it comes to planning a hill station holiday in India, places like Shimla, Ooty, or Manali often top the list. They're picturesque, familiar, and easy to get to. But let’s be honest, these spots aren’t exactly quiet escapes anymore. This guide is your go-to for hill escapes that still have that untouched, soul-refreshing charm.
Why Travel To Hidden Hill Stations?
Before we get into the list, let’s talk about why these hidden gems are worth your time (and money):
1. Lower Travel and Stay Costs
Smaller towns and lesser-known destinations are often easier on the pocket. Whether it’s a cosy homestay or a local café, everything tends to be more budget-friendly compared to the tourist-heavy spots.
2. Flexible Itineraries
One of the biggest travel hassles is sticking to bookings and rigid plans. With fewer tourists and less competition for accommodation, you can move at your own pace, make spontaneous decisions, and explore at leisure.
3. Authentic Local Hospitality & Eco-Tourism
The fewer the crowds, the more genuine the experience. Hidden hill stations often have tight-knit communities where locals take pride in sharing their traditions, food, and environment. It’s not just a holiday; it’s an immersive experience.
10 Hidden Hill Stations in India Worth Discovering
1. Coonoor, Tamil Nadu
Think Ooty, but slower, quieter, and laced with the scent of fresh Nilgiri tea. Coonoor sits peacefully in the blue hills, with old-world bungalows, misty gardens, and the rhythmic chug of the Nilgiri Mountain Railway. It’s perfect for long walks, endless cups of tea, and reading by a window while it drizzles outside.
How to get there:
Nearest Train Station: Coonoor (via Mettupalayam)
By Road: Just a scenic 20 km drive from Ooty
By Air: Coimbatore Airport (around 80 km away)
2. Araku Valley, Andhra Pradesh
If you love train journeys, this one’s for your bucket list. Araku is a lush little valley near Vizag, known for tribal culture, coffee plantations, and peaceful waterfalls. The train ride alone, with its tunnels and bridges, is worth the trip. And the Borra Caves? Otherworldly.
How to get there:
Nearest Train Station: Araku (via Visakhapatnam)
By Road: 110 km from Vizag
By Air: Visakhapatnam Airport
3. Mawlynnong, Meghalaya
Often hailed as the cleanest village in Asia, what truly makes it unforgettable is its strong sense of community and the beauty found in simplicity. From bamboo houses and sky-view towers to the breathtaking living root bridges nearby, this is Meghalaya at its purest.
How to get there:
By Road: 90 km drive from Shillong
By Air: Shillong or Guwahati Airport
4. Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh
If you’ve ever dreamed of being in a place where time slows down, then Ziro is it. Home to the Apatani tribe and surrounded by golden rice fields, this valley feels like a postcard from a different world. And if you're into music, the Ziro Festival in September is India’s coolest outdoor gig, with indie tunes playing in the middle of pine forests.
How to get there:
Nearest Train Station: Naharlagun
By Road: About 5–6 hours from Itanagar
By Air: Lilabari (Assam)
5. Tirthan Valley, Himachal Pradesh
Tirthan isn’t just quiet; it’s the kind of quiet that resets your soul. Set along a glacial river and close to the Great Himalayan National Park (a UNESCO site, by the way), this place is a playground for trekkers, anglers, and anyone who wants to trade Wi-Fi for waterfalls.
How to get there:
Nearest Train Station: Joginder Nagar
By Road: 50 km from the Aut Tunnel
By Air: Bhuntar Airport
6. Chopta, Uttarakhand
Tucked away in the Garhwal Himalayas, Chopta is a serene alpine getaway that feels like a well-kept secret. It’s the starting point for the Tungnath-Chandrashila trek, where sunrise views are nothing short of magical. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the vibrant Himalayan monal, Uttarakhand’s state bird.
How to get there:
Nearest Train Station: Rishikesh/Haridwar
By Road: 200+ km from Rishikesh
By Air: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
7. Pelling, Sikkim
Pelling gives you Himalayan views without the Sikkim crowd. With Kanchenjunga towering in the background, prayer flags fluttering in the breeze, and ancient monasteries just a walk away, it’s calm, scenic, and spiritual. Don’t miss the Skywalk for that ‘floating above the hills’ feeling.
How to get there:
Nearest Train Station: NJP (New Jalpaiguri)
By Road: 130 km from Siliguri
By Air: Bagdogra Airport
8. Lohaghat, Uttarakhand
Imagine waking up in a colonial-era cottage with views of pine forests and zero mobile signal stress. That’s Lohaghat for you. This forgotten corner of Kumaon is perfect if you’re looking to write a novel, read a fat book, or just…be.
How to get there:
Nearest Train Station: Tanakpur
By Road: 60 km from Champawat
By Air: Pantnagar Airport
9. Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh
A wide green meadow surrounded by forests with a lake at the centre, Khajjiar feels like it’s straight out of a childhood storybook. It’s no surprise that it has earned the nickname ‘Mini Switzerland.’ Perfect for horse rides, lazy picnics, and temple hopping among towering deodars, this little gem offers a peaceful escape wrapped in natural charm.
How to get there:
Nearest Train Station: Pathankot
By Road: Just 25 km from Dalhousie
By Air: Gaggal Airport, Kangra
10. Kalpa, Himachal Pradesh
Ever seen a mountain turn pink at sunrise? That’s Kalpa. Overlooking the majestic Kinner Kailash range, this village is wrapped in silence, apple trees, and old Himachali homes. It’s a bit of a drive to get here, but that’s part of the adventure.
How to get there:
Nearest Train Station: Shimla or Kalka
By Road: 220 km from Shimla via NH5
By Air: Shimla Airport or Chandigarh
Tips for Exploring Hidden Hill Stations
These hill spots are stunning but also remote. A little planning goes a long way.
- Pack Smart.
The weather can shift quickly in the hills. Carry layers, rain gear, and sturdy shoes, especially for treks or uneven paths. - Cash is King.
Most hidden towns have limited ATMs and patchy UPI reception. Always carry some cash for local transport, entry fees, or homestays. - Book in Advance (especially in peak season).
Offbeat doesn’t mean empty; festivals and holidays bring in travellers. Pre-book stays, especially in places like Ziro or Khajjiar.
- Stay with Locals.
Opt for homestays or eco-lodges. Not only is it more authentic, but you also support the local economy and culture.
- Download Offline Maps.
The signal can disappear really fast. Google Maps offline can be a lifesaver. - Respect the Quiet.
These hill towns thrive on peace and nature. Avoid loud music, littering, or disruptive behaviour. Leave no trace, except footprints and good vibes. - Carry Basic Meds.
A mini first-aid kit, motion sickness tablets, and altitude sickness remedies (for high-altitude spots like Kalpa) are handy to keep.
- Check Permits (esp. in the Northeast).
Places like Ziro (Arunachal Pradesh) may need an Inner Line Permit (ILP). Do your homework before heading out. Ready to go where few have?
These lesser-known hill stations might not be Insta-famous or topping travel blogs, but that’s their superpower. Think fewer crowds, more charm, and views that feel like your own secret postcard.
So next time you're itching for a getaway, skip the usual suspects. Take the scenic detour. You might just stumble upon your new favourite slice of the hills.
Disclaimer:This blog is for general travel inspiration only. Always check local guidelines and consult a travel professional before planning your trip.
