5 underrated hill stations to visit in India for a peaceful getaway

India is blessed with an abundance of hill stations. All you have to do is choose the one that fits all your requirements, like distance, affordability, tourist spots, and more. These destinations offer respite from the heat, stunning natural beauty, and an opportunity to get a glimpse into local cultures. While places like Shimla, Manali, and Darjeeling are well-known tourist destinations, there are several lesser-known hill stations that offer equally captivating experiences. Here are five underrated hill stations in India that deserve a visit:

Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh

Located in the eastern Himalayan state of Arunachal Pradesh, Ziro Valley is a picturesque destination known for its lush green landscapes, rice fields, and traditional Apatani tribal culture. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its unique agricultural practices and biodiversity, Ziro offers tranquil hikes, visits to tribal villages, and a chance to witness the indigenous way of life amid stunning natural beauty.
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Chopta, Uttarakhand

Set amid the Garhwal Himalayas in Uttarakhand, Chopta is known for its breathtaking landscapes. Surrounded by dense forests of pine, deodar, and rhododendron, Chopta offers serene trekking routes and majestic views of snow-capped peaks including Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba. It's also the base camp for treks to Tungnath, the highest Shiva temple in the world.

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Kausani, Uttarakhand

Perched at an altitude of 1,890 m in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, Kausani is often hailed for its panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks such as Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Panchachuli. Famous for its tea estates and serene ambiance, Kausani offers spectacular sunrise and sunset views over the snow-clad mountains from vantage points like Gandhi Ashram and Rudradhari Falls.

Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh

Situated at an altitude of around 3,048 meters, Tawang is a hidden gem in Arunachal Pradesh, renowned for its Buddhist monasteries, pristine lakes, and dramatic Himalayan landscapes. The Tawang Monastery, one of the largest in India, is a major attraction along with the beautiful Pangong Tso Lake and the serene Gorichen Peak. Tawang also offers opportunities for adventure activities like trekking, river rafting, and exploring Tibetan culture.

Coonoor, Tamil Nadu

Located in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu, Coonoor is a charming hill station that retains its old-world colonial charm amid tea plantations, lush green valleys, and rolling hills. Less crowded than its popular neighbor Ooty, Coonoor offers scenic hiking trails, botanical gardens like Sim's Park, and panoramic views from spots like Dolphin's Nose viewpoint. The Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a nostalgic ride through picturesque landscapes.