India is blessed with countless breathtaking mountain getaways, but most travelers flock to popular destinations like Manali, Shimla, and Ooty. If you’re seeking peace, unspoiled beauty, and fewer crowds, this guide to Offbeat Hill Stations in India is your perfect travel inspiration.
From hidden gems in the Northeast to untouched Himalayan retreats, here are 12 offbeat hill stations that will make your next trip truly unforgettable.
Table of Contents
1. Chopta, Uttarakhand
Nicknamed the “Mini Switzerland of India”, Chopta is a paradise for trekkers and nature lovers.
What to Do: Trek to Tungnath, birdwatching, camping
Best Time: March to May
Stay Suggestions: Cozy mountain stays via IndiGo Hotels or Booking.com.
2. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
A spiritual haven near the Indo-China border, Tawang offers pristine landscapes and ancient monasteries.
What to Do: Visit Tawang Monastery, explore Sela Pass
Best Time: April to June, September to November
Stay Suggestions: Curated guesthouses on IndiGo Hotels or budget inns via Agoda.
3. Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh
Known for the Apatani tribe and lush rice fields, Ziro is a blend of culture and raw beauty.
What to Do: Experience tribal life, attend Ziro Music Festival
Best Time: March to October
Stay Suggestions: Authentic local stays through IndiGo Hotels or Hotels.com.
4. Kalpa, Himachal Pradesh
With unmatched views of the Kinnaur Kailash range, Kalpa is serene and poetic.
What to Do: Visit Suicide Point, explore apple orchards
Best Time: May to October
Stay Suggestions: Boutique hillside hotels via IndiGo Hotels or Booking.com.
5. Yelagiri, Tamil Nadu
A budget-friendly gem near Chennai and Bangalore, Yelagiri is peaceful and perfect for weekend escapes.
What to Do: Boating, paragliding, trekking
Best Time: November to February
Stay Suggestions: Budget hotels and cottages on IndiGo Hotels or Agoda.
6. Daringbadi, Odisha
Often called the “Kashmir of Odisha”, Daringbadi is one of the few places in the east that sees snowfall.
What to Do: Nature walks, visit waterfalls, explore tribal villages
Best Time: October to March
Stay Suggestions: Eco-lodges via IndiGo Hotels or Hotels.com.
7. Chikhaldara, Maharashtra
The only coffee-growing region in Maharashtra, Chikhaldara is rich in viewpoints and wildlife.
What to Do: Bhimkund, wildlife sanctuary tours
Best Time: July to September
Stay Suggestions: Lakeside stays via IndiGo Hotels or Agoda.
8. Kanatal, Uttarakhand
Close to Mussoorie but far from touristy chaos, Kanatal is perfect for camping and detoxing from city life.
What to Do: Nature trails, Tehri Lake, adventure camps
Best Time: April to October
Stay Suggestions: Riverside camps via IndiGo Hotels or Booking.com.
9. Shoja, Himachal Pradesh
A hidden village in Seraj Valley, Shoja is pure Himalayan bliss.
What to Do: Serolsar Lake trek, Jalori Pass
Best Time: March to June, September to November
Stay Suggestions: Mountain-view homestays through IndiGo Hotels or Hotels.com.
10. Agumbe, Karnataka
Known as the “Cherrapunji of the South”, Agumbe is famous for its rainforest and vibrant biodiversity.
What to Do: Rainforest treks, sunset points, waterfalls
Best Time: October to February
Stay Suggestions: Jungle resorts via IndiGo Hotels or Agoda.
11. Munsiyari, Uttarakhand
Still untouched by mass tourism, Munsiyari is a trekker’s paradise with dramatic Himalayan peaks.
What to Do: Panchachuli base camp trek, skiing
Best Time: March to June
Stay Suggestions: High-altitude lodges via IndiGo Hotels or Booking.com.
12. Tirthan Valley, Himachal Pradesh
Ideal for solo travelers and couples, Tirthan Valley offers a peaceful riverside escape.
What to Do: Trout fishing, explore the Great Himalayan National Park
Best Time: March to June, October to November
Stay Suggestions: Riverside cottages on IndiGo Hotels or Hotels.com.
How to Plan Your Stay in Offbeat Hill Stations in India
When visiting these lesser-known gems, choosing the right accommodation can enhance your travel experience. Here are our top booking platforms:
- IndiGo Hotels – Curated, budget-friendly stays across India
- Booking.com – A wide range of verified options
- Agoda – Best deals for advance bookings
- Hotels.com – Exclusive member pricing & rewards
Final Thoughts
These Offbeat Hill Stations in India are perfect for slow travel and escaping the tourist rush. Whether you love trekking, photography, meditation, or simply soaking in nature, there’s a peaceful hill station here just for you.
Plan your offbeat retreat with smart hotel and flight bookings through IndiGo Hotels, Agoda, Booking.com, Hotels.com, and Skyscanner — and discover the hidden beauty of India’s highlands.
