Best Hill Stations in Uttarakhand: Scenic Escapes in the Himalayas
From the ever-popular Nainital with its tranquil lake and vibrant town life, to the serene solitude of Chakrata and Mukteshwar, every destination is rich in natural beauty and cultural depth. Mussoorie enchants with colonial-era charm, Auli draws snow lovers and skiers, while Chopta is a trekker's dream come true. If you're looking for panoramic Himalayan views, Ranikhet, Kausani, and Almora offer postcard-perfect landscapes and soulful experiences. Best Hill Stations in Kerala: A Nature Lover's Paradise
In this blog post, we'll explore the top hill stations in Uttarakhand with all the travel details you need—how to reach, the best time to visit, must-see places, activities to enjoy, and helpful tips—to plan a refreshing and unforgettable mountain getaway.
Overview:
Famous for its pear-shaped lake and colonial charm, Nainital is a year-round favorite among tourists and honeymooners. Read more….
How to Reach: By Road: 300 km from Delhi
300 km from Delhi By Rail: Kathgodam (35 km)
Kathgodam (35 km) By Air: Pantnagar Airport (70 km)
Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to November
Best Places to Visit: Naini Lake,
Naina Devi Temple,
Snow View Point,
Tiffin Top
Things to Do: Boating, ropeway rides, shopping at Mall Road
Travel Tips: Book lakeside hotels early in peak seasons; carry warm clothes even in summer. Best Hill Stations in Tamil Nadu: Nature's Tranquil Retreats
Overview:
Known as the 'Queen of the Hills,' Mussoorie offers stunning views of the Doon Valley and snow-covered peaks. Read More…..
How to Reach: By Road: 35 km from Dehradun
35 km from Dehradun By Rail: Dehradun Railway Station
Dehradun Railway Station By Air: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
Best Time to Visit: April to June, September to November
Best Places to Visit: Kempty Falls,
Gun Hill,
Camel's Back Road,
Lal Tibba
Things to Do: Cable car rides, trekking, shopping at Landour Bazaar
Travel Tips: Avoid weekends and public holidays for a peaceful trip. Best 10 Beautiful Weekend Road Trips Across India
Overview:
Auli is a snow lover's paradise and India's top skiing destination with panoramic views of the Nanda Devi range.
How to Reach: By Road: 270 km from Rishikesh
270 km from Rishikesh By Rail: Rishikesh (250 km)
Rishikesh (250 km) By Air: Jolly Grant Airport
Best Time to Visit: December to March for snow; May to June for scenic beauty
Best Places to Visit: Auli Artificial Lake,
Gorson Bugyal,
Joshimath
Things to Do: Skiing, cable car ride, trekking, snowboarding
Travel Tips: Carry heavy woolens and pre-book skiing gear or packages. Best One Day Trip from Hyderabad
Overview:
A peaceful military cantonment with panoramic Himalayan views and apple orchards, Ranikhet is a great spot for relaxation.
How to Reach: By Road: 95 km from Nainital
95 km from Nainital By Rail: Kathgodam
Kathgodam By Air: Pantnagar Airport
Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to October
Best Places to Visit: Jhula Devi Temple,
Chaubatia Gardens,
Mankameshwar Temple
Things to Do: Nature walks, birdwatching, exploring orchards
Travel Tips: Less crowded than Nainital; ideal for offbeat stays and leisure trips.
Overview:
Known as the 'Switzerland of India', Kausani offers uninterrupted views of snow-covered Himalayan peaks and a calm atmosphere.
How to Reach: By Road: 52 km from Almora
52 km from Almora By Rail: Kathgodam (142 km)
Kathgodam (142 km) By Air: Pantnagar Airport
Best Time to Visit: March to May and October to February
Best Places to Visit: Anasakti Ashram,
Rudradhari Falls,
Baijnath Temple
Things to Do: Stargazing, nature photography, sunrise viewing
Travel Tips: Carry a DSLR for magical sunrise shots; avoid monsoon due to landslides.
Overview:
Almora is a culturally rich hill station with scenic beauty and ancient temples nestled on a horse-saddle-shaped ridge.
How to Reach: By Road: 370 km from Delhi
370 km from Delhi By Rail: Kathgodam (82 km)
Kathgodam (82 km) By Air: Pantnagar Airport
Best Time to Visit: April to June, September to November
Best Places to Visit: Kasar Devi Temple,
Bright End Corner,
Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary
Things to Do: Meditation, heritage walks, wildlife watching
Travel Tips: Visit Kasar Devi during Kartik Purnima for a spiritual experience.
Overview:
Lansdowne is a quiet and charming military town perfect for a serene weekend surrounded by pine forests.
How to Reach: By Road: 250 km from Delhi
250 km from Delhi By Rail: Kotdwar (40 km)
Kotdwar (40 km) By Air: Jolly Grant Airport
Best Time to Visit: October to March, April to June
Best Places to Visit: Bhulla Tal Lake,
Tip-in-Top,
War Memorial
Things to Do: Boating, hiking, stargazing
Travel Tips: Great for couples and nature lovers; carry light woolens even in summer.
Overview:
Popularly known as the 'Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand,' Chopta is a picturesque hamlet and base for the Tungnath-Chandrashila trek.
How to Reach: By Road: 225 km from Rishikesh
225 km from Rishikesh By Rail: Haridwar (210 km)
Haridwar (210 km) By Air: Jolly Grant Airport
Best Time to Visit: March to May, September to November
Best Places to Visit: Tungnath Temple,
Chandrashila Peak,
Deoria Tal
Things to Do: Trekking, camping, birdwatching
Travel Tips: Wear trekking shoes; pack power banks and medicines—limited facilities.
Overview:
Mukteshwar offers peace, panoramic Himalayan views, and apple orchards, making it ideal for nature seekers and honeymooners. read more…..
How to Reach: By Road: 50 km from Nainital
50 km from Nainital By Rail: Kathgodam
Kathgodam By Air: Pantnagar Airport
Best Time to Visit: March to June and October to December
Best Places to Visit: Mukteshwar Temple,
Chauli Ki Jali,
Bhalu Gaad Waterfalls
Things to Do: Rock climbing, rappelling, photography
Travel Tips: Perfect for weekend trips; limited commercial development, so plan stays early.
Overview:
Chakrata is an offbeat and scenic destination near Dehradun, ideal for travelers seeking solitude and natural charm.
How to Reach: By Road: 90 km from Dehradun
90 km from Dehradun By Rail: Dehradun Railway Station
Dehradun Railway Station By Air: Jolly Grant Airport
Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to November
Best Places to Visit: Tiger Falls,
Deoban,
Chilmiri Neck
Things to Do: Trekking, waterfall hikes, mountain biking
Travel Tips: Avoid during heavy monsoon; best for eco-tourism and quiet stays.
The best hill stations in Uttarakhand are not just scenic destinations—they are experiences that combine nature, peace, adventure, and spirituality. From bustling lakesides in Nainital to the snowy slopes of Auli, the hidden charm of Chakrata, and the spiritual aura of Almora, every destination offers something unforgettable. Plan your trip according to your travel style—be it relaxation, exploration, or spiritual retreat.
Q1: Which is the most visited hill station in Uttarakhand?
A: Nainital and Mussoorie are the most popular.
Q2: Which hill station is best for snow activities?
A: Auli is the best for skiing and snowboarding.
Q3: Which hill station is ideal for offbeat travel?
A: Chopta and Chakrata are perfect for less touristy, nature-based travel.
Q4: What is the best time to visit hill stations in Uttarakhand?
A: March to June and September to November are ideal for most destinations.
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Then the trek split—you go first to Everest Base Camp, then climb to Kala Patthar for a sunrise view of Everest, a very special time. After that, you go across Cho La Pass, which is icy and steep but so exciting. Then you reach Gokyo Lake, which is a turquoise-colored lake with a reflection of mountains. From Gokyo, another challenge came—Renjo La Pass, which gives the best panorama of the Everest range. See Mount Everest very near from Kala Patthar Two high mountain passes: Cho La and Renjo La Beautiful Gokyo Lake and glacier valley Real Sherpa village and Buddhist monastery Adventure in thin air and rocky landscape Chance to see snow leopard, Himalayan thar Best sunrise and sunset of your life Helicopter exit available if tired or short on time It takes around 18 to 20 days to complete the whole trek with good acclimatization. You need strong legs and a big heart, but it rewards every step. The best time is from March to May and September to November. The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is easy but so beautiful and good for beginner people or family travelers. It is a short trek—only 4 to 6 days depending on how slow or fast you walk. The main highlight is Poon Hill, which is one of the best viewpoints in the Annapurna region. You start from Pokhara, drive to Nayapul or Hile, and then walk to Ulleri and Ghorepani, and the next day early morning you climb Poon Hill for sunrise. From there, the whole Dhaulagiri and Annapurna range comes in front of your eyes with golden light. After that, you can return by the same way or go down to Tadapani and Ghandruk village, which are beautiful Gurung settlements. The trail goes through forest, waterfall, stone steps, and rhododendron flowers in the spring season. Easy and short trek for all ages Best sunrise from Poon Hill Many local tea houses and warm food Forest trail with birds and monkeys Chance to see Mt. 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Kedarkantha Trek: A Complete Guide to the Ultimate Winter Adventure
Nestled in the serene Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, the Kedarkantha Trek is one of the most popular winter treks in India. Known for its breathtaking snow-capped landscapes, panoramic mountain views, and serene beauty, Kedarkantha offers a perfect getaway for trekkers of all levels. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a beginner, this trek guarantees an unforgettable adventure. Here's everything you need to know about the Kedarkantha trek, from preparation to tips for making the most of the experience. Kedarkantha is situated within the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary, at an altitude of 12,500 feet. The trek takes you through lush pine forests, remote villages, and vast meadows, all while offering stunning views of some of the highest peaks in the Indian Himalayas, including Swargarohini, Black Peak, and the majestic Bandarpoonch range. The trek is known for being accessible even to beginners, but it also offers enough challenge to keep experienced trekkers engaged. 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While the Kedarkantha Trek can be done year-round, the winter months, from December to April, offer the best experience. During this time, the region is covered in snow, turning the trek into a spectacular winter journey. The trek is also a great option for those looking to experience snow trekking for the first time. For trekkers who prefer milder conditions, the pre-monsoon season (April to June) is ideal. These months offer clear skies and moderate temperatures, though you won't experience the same snow-covered landscapes. The base village for the Kedarkantha Trek package is Sankri, a small but charming village in Uttarkashi. To reach Sankri, you need to travel to Dehradun, which is the nearest major city. Here's a step-by-step guide: By Air : The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is about 200 km from Sankri. : The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is about 200 km from Sankri. By Train : You can take a train to Dehradun from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, or Kolkata. From Dehradun, you can take a bus or taxi to Sankri. : You can take a train to Dehradun from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, or Kolkata. From Dehradun, you can take a bus or taxi to Sankri. By Road: Sankri is well connected by road from Dehradun and can be reached by bus or taxi. The drive offers stunning views of the region. Once you reach Sankri, the trek starts and will take you through beautiful forests, remote villages, and stunning viewpoints. Majestic Views : As you ascend, the views only get better. You'll witness the grandeur of the peaks of Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Black Peak, and many others. The view from the summit of Kedarkantha is simply mesmerizing, offering a 360-degree panorama of the Himalayan range. : As you ascend, the views only get better. You'll witness the grandeur of the peaks of Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Black Peak, and many others. The view from the summit of Kedarkantha is simply mesmerizing, offering a 360-degree panorama of the Himalayan range. Gorgeous Campsites : One of the highlights of this trek is the campsites. You'll camp at Juda Ka Talab, a serene lake surrounded by snow, and at Kedarkantha Base, which provides stunning views of the surrounding peaks. The starry skies at night are a sight to behold. : One of the highlights of this trek is the campsites. You'll camp at Juda Ka Talab, a serene lake surrounded by snow, and at Kedarkantha Base, which provides stunning views of the surrounding peaks. The starry skies at night are a sight to behold. Snow Trekking : The trek is famous for its pristine snow cover. Walking through snow-covered forests, meadows, and ridgelines adds a magical dimension to the journey. The adventure of walking on soft snow and making your way through frozen landscapes is one of the most exhilarating experiences. : The trek is famous for its pristine snow cover. Walking through snow-covered forests, meadows, and ridgelines adds a magical dimension to the journey. The adventure of walking on soft snow and making your way through frozen landscapes is one of the most exhilarating experiences. Wildlife and Flora: As you hike, you'll traverse through dense pine forests, oak groves, and alpine meadows. The region is rich in biodiversity, and you might catch glimpses of wildlife like the Himalayan Monal, snow leopard, and various species of birds. Here's a typical 6-day itinerary for the Kedarkantha Trek: Day 1: Arrival in Sankri Arrive in Sankri and check into your base camp. Spend the day relaxing, acclimatizing to the altitude, and enjoying the local culture. Day 2: Sankri to Juda Ka Talab (5 km) The trek begins with a steep ascent through pine and oak forests. Juda Ka Talab is a beautiful campsite by a frozen lake, perfect for the first night of camping. Day 3: Juda Ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base (4 km) Continue your journey to the Kedarkantha base camp, passing through alpine meadows. This is one of the most scenic parts of the trek. Day 4: Kedarkantha Base to Summit and Return to Kedarkantha Base (6 km) Summit day! Start early in the morning to reach the top of Kedarkantha peak. Enjoy the panoramic views before returning to the base camp for an overnight stay. Day 5: Kedarkantha Base to Sankri (6 km) Descend back to Sankri, retracing your steps through the snow-covered forests and meadows. Day 6: Departure After breakfast, head back to Dehradun to continue your journey home. For a successful Kedarkantha Trek, packing the right gear is crucial. Here's a recommended list: Clothing : Layered clothing for varying temperatures, thermal wear, waterproof jackets, gloves, woolen socks. : Layered clothing for varying temperatures, thermal wear, waterproof jackets, gloves, woolen socks. Footwear : Waterproof trekking boots with good grip. : Waterproof trekking boots with good grip. Backpack : A comfortable 50-60L backpack with waterproof covers. : A comfortable 50-60L backpack with waterproof covers. Camping Gear : Sleeping bag, sleeping mat, and a headlamp. : Sleeping bag, sleeping mat, and a headlamp. Snacks and Water: Energy bars, dry fruits, and a water bottle. Physical Preparation : While Kedarkantha is not a very difficult trek, it's still important to be physically prepared. Regular cardio exercises like running or cycling will help improve endurance. : While Kedarkantha is not a very difficult trek, it's still important to be physically prepared. Regular cardio exercises like running or cycling will help improve endurance. Stay Hydrated : Even in cold weather, dehydration can set in. Carry a water bottle and drink regularly. : Even in cold weather, dehydration can set in. Carry a water bottle and drink regularly. Acclimatize: Spend time acclimatizing at the campsites to prevent altitude sickness. The Kedarkantha Trek offers an incredible experience for trekkers looking for a combination of scenic beauty, a challenge, and the serenity of the Himalayas. With its stunning views, well-maintained trails, and the opportunity to experience winter trekking, Kedarkantha has earned its place as one of India's top trekking destinations. Whether you're seeking adventure or simply want to escape into nature's beauty, Kedarkantha promises a journey you'll cherish forever. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
National Geographic
28-07-2025
- National Geographic
7 bullet train journeys across China, from the Great Wall to Shangri-la
On a clear Beijing morning, I settle into my seat on board the G87 bullet train. Bound for Chengdu, we'll make the nearly 1,200-mile journey—about the distance from New York City to Kansas City—in just 7.5 hours. Through the window, buildings blur as we quietly pick up speed and soon we're sailing across the Yellow River, past Xi'an's ancient walls, and into the mountains of Sichuan. China is blazing a new future with its rail network, which includes more than 28,500 miles of high-speed tracks (for comparison, Europe's is around 7,450 miles), from Shanghai's leafy avenues to the soaring heights of the Himalayas and the surreal Terracotta Warrior Army. And, China just unveiled the world's fastest bullet train, topping out at 280 mph. These trains make crossing the country's huge landmass accessible and eco-friendly, even on a shorter visit. The Bund in Shanghai is a popular waterfront district. Photograph by Bodgan Lazar, Alamy Stock Photo 1. Golden triangle Best for: Imperial history and the Great Wall Route: Beijing to Shanghai via Xi'an Journey time: 10 hours (five hours per leg) Distance: 1,170 miles Best done as a journey of two halves, this train trip encompasses China's biggest sights, from Forbidden City in Beijing to the surreal terra-cotta warrior army at ancient capital Xi'an, finishing at the glittering city lights of the Bund in Shanghai. The first journey glides south out of Beijing West Station and across the vast plains of the Loess Plateau through China's industrial heartland before crossing the Yellow River to the ancient city walls of Xi'an. The second leg diverts west to Shanghai, passing the fifth-century Longmen Grottoes and Suzhou's classical gardens and canals on its way. 2. Tibetan Plateau Best for: Himalayan peaks and Buddhist temples Route: Xining to Lhasa Journey time: 20-hour night train Distance: 1,1215 miles Technically the only non-high-speed train on this list, the Qinghai-Tibet Railway is an engineering marvel built on permafrost and traversing challening terrain over some of the world's highest passes. Starting in Xining, the provincial capital of Qinghai province, this overnight journey first passes the blue waters of Qinghai Lake—China's largest—before chugging across the Tibetan Plateau (where you might spot antelope and other wildlife), and up into the Himalayas, arriving the next morning in the lofty Tibetan capital. (Our ancestors walked these trails hundreds of years ago. Now you can too.) On board, heated sleeper carriages and oxygen tanks keep passengers warm and safe from elevation sickness. Once in Lhasa, you can board a high-speed line (opened in 2021) that connects with the city of Nyingchi. To visit Tibet, international tourists need a regional travel permit and must book through registered agencies. Dunhuang was a primary stop along the Silk Road. Photograph by Horizon International Images, Alamy Stock Photo The colorful hills of Zhangye National Geopark are made up of colorful rock formations that look like art. Photograph by Boaz Rottem, Alamy Stock Photo 3. Silk Road Best for: Bazaars, dunes, Buddhist art Route: Lanzhou to Dunhuang Journey time: 8 hours Distance: 690 miles Stretching across the northwest deserts in Gansu province, this high-speed journey follows the camel trails that were used for centuries to trade silk, spices, and philosophy. Today, you can do the journey in a couple of days, or even better, break it up into several legs, allowing time to explore the grand Buddha statues, night markets, temples, and sweeping landscapes along the line. Starting in Lanzhou, home of the original hand-pulled lamian noodles, the train sails through the Hexi Corridor, through Zhangye with its colorful rainbow hills, Wuwei, where the famous Flying Horse of Gansu was uncovered, and Jiayuguan, the western end of the Great Wall, before finally arriving in the desert outpost of Dunhuang, home to giant dunes and the Mogao Caves—one of the most important caches of Buddhist art in the world. 4. Mountains of Shangri-la Best for: Mountains, gorges, ancient architecture Route: Kunming to Shangri-La Journey time: 5 hours Distance: 385 miles This mountainous journey zips across southwest China from Kunming, the provincial capital of Yunnan, to the high mountain town of Shangri-la, named after the mythical Himalayan valley in James Hilton's 1933 book, Lost Horizon. One of China's highest railway lines, it tunnels through the Himalayan foothills and up across the Tibetan Plateau. The journey can be done as a series of stops at towns like Dali and Lijiang, both known for their ancient architecture and minority cultures, or you can speed straight through in about five hours. Passing Lijiang, the region's best-known peak, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, spikes into a perfect triangle in the distance, and later the train crosses a high bridge over the glacial blue waters of the Jinsha River, which carves through Qinghai and Sichuan and into Yunnan. The ice sculptures at the Harbin Ice and Snow Festival in Harbin, China. Photograph by Gavin Hellier, Getty Images 5. Wintery northeast Best for: Ice festivals and a cultural mix Route: Beijing to Harbin Journey time: 4.5 hours Distance: 771 miles This sleek, high-speed route shoots northeast from Beijing through the vast plains of Dongbei, a region shaped by heavy snowfalls, dumplings, and faded traces of the Qing dynasty. You'll pass through Shenyang, once an imperial Manchu capital, before reaching Harbin, a city with onion-domed churches, frozen rivers, and a mix of cultures and influences, including from China, Russia, Mongolia, and beyond. Time your journey for January or February and you'll arrive just in time for the Harbin Ice and Snow Festival, where entire palaces and pagodas are carved from blocks of ice and lit up in neon hues. The route follows part of the old Trans-Manchurian corridor, once used by Soviet and Chinese railways heading for Moscow. 6. Rivers and rice terraces Best for: Karst peaks and lush forests Route: Guiyang to Guangzhou Journey time: 3.5 hours Distance: 540 miles This scenic journey traverses the karst landscapes of southern China, including the dramatic limestone peaks near Guilin and the subtropical scenery of Guizhou. This route blends mountainous terrain with modern viaducts and tunnels, which are great for dramatic vistas.
