Top 8 Mountain Destinations in India

 

Everyone awaits the time when all the family members can venture out together. Be it kids or elders, everybody gets excited to spend some quality time as a family away from the hustle and bustle of life. And what else can be better than a mountain getaway?

Here is a list of the top 8 mountain destinations that will be a perfect fit for a fun-filled family vacation.

 

1. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 

Popularly known as the ‘Queen of Hills’, Shimla offers a refreshing escape from the scorching summers in India. Nestled amidst the Himalayas, Shimla will surely take your breath away with its scenic beauty.

Popular Spots :

• The Ridge of Shimla

• Jhakoo Hill

• Kalka-Shimla Toy Train

• Chadwick Falls

• Christ Church

• Annandale

• Johnnie’s Wax Museum 

• Viceregal Lodge

 

Foodie Delights :

• Madra (Boiled chickpea dish)

• Babru (Deep-fried bread)

• Aktori (Potato crepes)

• Travel Tips: Shimla is a well-connected city. You can reach the nearest airport by air: Shimla Airport (Jubbarhatti Airport). The nearest railhead is Kalka railway station, and if you plan to travel by road, National Highway 5 is a popular route. 

• Suitable months: Suitable time to travel is between March and June with moderate climate.

• Pack Smart: Pack warm clothes like shawl, light cardigans, woollen caps, thermals, etc. as the weather is colder, especially during the night.

 

2. Coorg, Karnataka 

Coorg, the "Scotland of India," is a stunning hill destination popular for its cascading waterfalls, serene coffee plantations, and breath-taking views of lush green mountains.

Popular Spots :

• Abbey Falls

• Irupu Falls

• Talakevri

• Dubare Elephant Sanctuary

• Raja’s Seat

• Mercara Gold Estate Coffee Plantation

• Madikeri Fort

• Talakaveri

 

Foodie Delights :

• Kadambuttu (Steamed rice balls)

• Noolputtu (Rice noodles)

• Bamboo shoot curry

• Travel Tips: The best way to reach Coorg is to commute by road. The nearest railway station and airport are approximately 120 km away from Coorg, after which you need to book a taxi or bus to reach your destination.

• Suitable months: Suitable time to travel is between October and March as the weather is pleasant and ideal to roam around Coorg. 

• Pack Smart: Pack light and breathable cotton clothes that are comfortable. You can also pack some jackets in case it gets chilly or windy anytime.

 

3. Munnar, Kerala 

Munnar, the pride of the Western Ghats, is a hill station haven famous for its lush green landscape forested with tea plantations, vivid lakes, and awe-inspiring views.

Popular Spots :

• Kundala Lake,

• Echo Point

• Eravikulam National Park

• Mattupetty Dam

• Attukal Waterfalls

• Munnar Rose Garden

• Lockheart Gap

• Photo Point

 

Foodie Delights :

• Kairali Thaili (Both veg and non-veg available)

• Appam with vegetable stew

• Parotta with paneer curry

• Travel Tips:. Ernakulam Junction and Cochin International Airport are 130 km and 110 km away from Munnar, respectively. The rest of your journey can be easily completed by a bus or local taxi.

• Suitable months: Suitable time to travel is between October and February as you get to experience the misty and scenic mountains. 

• Pack Smart: Warm clothes like woollen sweaters, caps, mufflers are a must for your trip to Munnar.

 

4.Nainital, Uttarakhand 

Nainital, the city of lakes, is situated on the Kumaon Hills. The town is located amidst the majestic mountains and pristine lakes, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing vacation.

Popular Spots :

• Naini Lake

• Naina Devi Temple

• Naina Peak

• Mall Road

• Tibetian Market

• Snow View Point

• Eco Cave Gardens

• Tiffin Top

 

Foodie Delights :

• Bal mithai 

• Gulgula

• Baadi (Lentil dish)

• Travel Tips: The nearest railhead and airport to Nainital are Kathgodam Station and Pantnagar Airport, respectively. However, the scenic view of Naini Hills is best enjoyed by road.

• Suitable months: Suitable time to travel is between March and June, weather being pleasant with onset of monsoons.

• Pack Smart: Pack combination of light and warm clothes. Cotton clothes work fine during the day while shawls, jackets, caps might come handy during the evening and at night.

 

5. McLeod Ganj, Himachal Pradesh

Also known as ‘Little Lhasa’, McLeod Ganj is a perfect blend of serenity, spirituality, cultural exploration, and breath-taking natural beauty.

Popular Spots :

• The Dalai Lama Temple

• Kangra Fort

• Masroor Temple

• St. John Church

• Hanuman Ka Tibba

• Tibetan Museum

• Naddi View Point

• Bhagsu Waterfall

• Triund Hill

 

Foodie Delights :

Bok Choy soup 

• Yak cheese slice

• Travel Tips: Gaggal Airport is near McLeod Ganj, while Kangra Mandir is the nearest railhead.

• Suitable months: Suitable time to travel is between February to June to experience a pleasant weather while months from July to September are best to experience the monsoon.

• Pack Smart: Weather in February is cold because of snowfall, so packing warm woollens especially thermals is advisable. The weather is moderate June onwards so light and airy clothes are a good choice with some light jackets.

 

6. Leh, Ladakh

Nestled at a height of 11,500 feet in the Himalayas, Leh is a picturesque city in Ladakh. It is one of the top destinations amongst the travel enthusiasts. From mesmerizing landscapes to peaceful monasteries, Leh will definitely give you a wholesome experience.

Popular Spots :

• Leh Palace

• Shanti Stupa

• Pangong Tso

• Spituk Gompa

• Gurudwara Pathar Sahib

• Magnetic Hill

• Leh Bazaar

• Suru Valley

 

Foodie Delights :

• Skyu (Vegetable and dough ball soup)

• Chhurpe (Dried Yak cheese)

• Butter Tea

• Travel Tips: Nearest railhead to the city is Jammu Tawi while Kushok Bakula Rimpochee airport is just 8kms for Leh. Buses or private taxis can also be booked. 

• Suitable months: Suitable time to travel is between March to June so that you can enjoy clear blue skies and breath-taking view of snow-capped mountains. 

• Pack Smart: The temperature can vary during the day and nights tend to get chilly. Pack fleece jackets, thermals, waterproof jackets, and clothes for layering.

 

7. Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Situated in amidst the majestic Himalayas, Manali is a one stop destination for setting your heart free and experience the vivid landscape and indulge into adventurous activities.

Popular Spots :

• Manikaran Sahib

• Rohtang Pass

• Solang Valley

• Atal Tunnel

• Hidimba Devi Temple

• Old Manali

• Arjun Gufa

• Nehru Kund

 

Foodie Delights :

• Khatta (Pumpkin dish)

• Bhey (Lotus stem dish)

• Chana Madra (Chickpea dish)

• Travel Tips: Bhuntar airport is the nearest to Manali. Many people usually prefer going by car or bus to witness the glory of mountains.

• Suitable months: Best time to travel is between March to June. You can actively participate in adventure sports, go for treks, and enjoy the beautiful views.

• Pack Smart: Even in the month of June, the temperature at night can fall to zero. Packing warm clothes like shawls, pullovers, caps, gloves, thermals can keep you warm.

 

8. Gulmarg, Kashmir

Famously known as the ‘Meadows of flower’, this scenic mountain destination is situated at an elevation of 2650 meters. Throughout the year, you can witness different landscapes from blooming of flowers to snow-covered peaks. 

Popular Spots :

• Gulmarg Gondola ride

• Gulmarg Golf course

• St. Mary’s Church

• Durung waterfall

• Aphrawat Peak

• Seven Springs

 

Foodie Delights :

• Haak saag

• Noon Chai 

• Nadroo yakhni (lotus stem dish)

• Travel Tips: Srinagar International airport is 35km from Gulmarg and you can easily book a private taxi to continue your journey ahead. Travelling via train can be tiring as Jammu railway station is 290 km away from the city.

• Suitable months: Ideal time for sightseeing and going around the city is between March and June. While December to January are the months to experience the snow-capped mountains and indulge in winter sports.

• Pack Smart: If you plan to destinations that has snow, carry warm jackets, scarfs, thermals, caps. Otherwise in the month of June, t-shirts, comfortable pants, light jackets should be fine.

 

Conclusion -

Summers bring along this fun opportunity to relax and be with our loved ones. And what can be better than enjoying your time in the lap of nature, amidst the lush green and majestic hilly terrain? Let yourself be set free in the serenity of the mountains and have a joyous vacation with your family.

 

Disclaimer :

The content of this blog is for informational purpose only. This should not be considered as a professional advice or any form of opinion. Kindly research about the destination in advance to have a better understanding about the current weather conditions. Please consult a qualified consultant to seek any financial or insurance advice.