Let’s take a look at some of the most visited and alluring hill stations in North India.
- Darjeeling – This magical land is located at the northern part in the state of West Bengal. One of the major factors for boosting tourism in the city, Darjeeling is perched at an altitude of more than two thousand meters above level. The hill station’s name is actually a Tibetan word Dorje-ling which means ‘land of thunderbolts’, which with time turned into Darjeeling. There serene valleys and mountain tops beyond the clouds are few things worth capturing in your cameras. To enjoy a wholesome experience you can also go for Darjeeling tour packages which takes you around the attractions like Padmaja Naidu Zoological Park, Rock Garden, Jaldapara National Park, Batasia Loop, Observatory Hill, Darjeeling Tea Gardens, St. Andrew’s Church, Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Japanese Peace Pagoda, Tiger Hill, and River Teesta.
- Nainital – Nainital derived its name from the major tourist attraction Naini Lake, located right at the heart of the hill station. Situated at an altitude of more than 2000 meters above sea level in the state of Uttarakhand, the hill station was once under Nepalese rule and was brought within the Indian boundaries by the English after their win in the Anglo-Nepalese war. Nainital’s prime tourist attraction is the Naini Lake, which is often called the lesser Mansarovar and considered to be formed by the waters of the holy Mansarovar lake in Tibet. Nanda Devi Temple is another major religious destination in the region and the hill station lies close proximity to the Jim Corbett National Park, home to the mighty Royal Bengal tigers.
- Dharamsala – A popular hill station located in the state of Himachal Pradesh, Dharamsala is famous for its Buddhist influence. Once a capital to the kings of the Kangra Valley, the hill station came under British control in 1848. After India’s freedom, the government allowed Tibetan refugees a settlement in the city and thus sees a lot of households, temples and monasteries built in typical Buddhist style of architecture. You can enjoy a walk in the markets and some bring back beautiful handicrafts and souvenirs and also enjoy some Tibetan delicacies.
- Auli – Not so popular name in the tourist circuit, but most of travelers frequenting the hills will recognize Auli as one the best spots for adventure sports in India. Often shadowed by other popular destinations like Shimla, Manali and Srinagar, Auli offers a breathtaking view of the peaks in upper Himalayas. There are several ancient temples in the region dedicated to the regional gods which is worth taking a look. Not much is known about the history of the place, except that it was once the part of kings of Himachal. There are several Hill stations holiday packages you can take to spend a wonderful time in the hills of Auli.