When you think about Gujarat, the vibrant culture, architecture, and legacy often leads to reflections of deserts, temples, and heritage destinations. However, beyond the regular destinations, there lies a tranquil and untouched side of Gujarat – its hill stations. While destinations such as Saputara have achieved celebrity status, there are other hill stations hidden in the shadows of the Aravalli and Satpura ranges that are untouched by mass tourism.
These undiscovered hideaways provide cool weather with misty mornings, rolling waterfalls, and treelined forests; basically, it gives escape from the dull plains and heat of the city. Whether you like nature, want to take on an adventure, or would prefer to escape and find some peace, Gujarat’s hill stations provide the opportunity to do so.
Here are 5 underrated hill stations in Gujarat that you should add to your travel bucket list.
1. Wilson Hills – The Monsoon Marvel
Location : Valsad District, near Dharampur.
Altitude: ~2,500 feet above sea level.
Wilson Hills, nestled in the Sahyadri range. This hill station has pleasant weather most of the year, but it comes to life during the monsoon season when its rolling green hills are cloaked in mist, and its waterfalls add to the scenery.
Wilson Hills’ uniqueness is due to the fact that it is not far from the ocean, and you can see the Arabian Sea from the top of the hill on clear days – a rare sight. The Hill View Point, Ozone Valley, and Sunset Point are fantastic places to take in the breathtaking scenery, while nature trails, fruit orchards, and tribal villages provide further learning experiences for visitors.
Why Go : For its fabulous and undeveloped country scenery, fresh air, and hilltops with views of the ocean.
2. Don Hill Station – Gujarat’s Unspoiled Hills
Location : Dang District, near Saputara.
Altitude : ~3500 ft above sea level
Don Hill Station is the highest hill station in Gujarat, located close to the Gujarat-Maharashtra border. While Don is relatively unknown, it is becoming an intriguing alternative to the more commercialized Saputara.
Don is a dream for trekkers and bird-watchers. With dense forests, a few tribal
hamlets, and beautiful trekking routes, Don Hill Station has great treks in pristine environments and biologically rich nature. It is also practically un-explored and retains an un-romanced wilderness experience.
Why Go : For solitude, tribal culture, and pristine nature experiences.
Must Read: 10 Beginner-Friendly Trekking Routes in India for Your First-Ever Trek
3. Pavagadh Hill – A Landscape Educated Hill Station
Location : Panchmahal District.
Altitude : ~2,600 feet above sea level.
Pavagadh is not only a hill station, but a hill with heritage and religion. The hill is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park. To top it off, the hill offers great panoramic views, temples (Kalika Mata Temple), and the old fort built in the 10th century.
There is a ropeway to carry visitors up part of the hill, and for the more adventurous, there is the option of trekking through the forest paths. The weather here is relatively pleasant for most of the year – especially the monsoon and winter months.
Why Go : Bouquets of Heritage, Religion, and beautiful mountain scenery.
4. Zarwani Waterfalls and Shoolpaneshwar Hill Area
Location : Narmada District, Rajpipla.
Altitude : Variable (low hill terrain, ~1,200-1,500 feet)
Shoolpaneshwar hills, where Zarwani Waterfalls is located, is not a traditional hill station, it offers a relaxing experience as a hill retreat. It is in Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary, making it an eco-tourism and forest trekking hub.
The nice weather, abundant waterfalls, and rich biodiversity encourage naturalists and weekend adventurers alike. You may explore birds and trek trails in the forest, as well as visit temples in the hills. The closeness of Sardar Sarovar Dam, and Statue of Unity makes it an excellent extended itinerary.
Why Go : Lush green, waterfall treks and wilderness experiences.
Must Read: 5 Secret Waterfalls In India Perfect For A Summer Trek
5. Ambaji and Gabbar Hill – A Spiritual Hill Retreat
Location : Banaskantha District, close to Rajasthan border.
Altitude : ~1600 feet above sea level.
While Ambaji is known for its temple and other religious significance, Gabbar Hill, located just opposite to the main temple complex, is an offbeat hill trek that is generally not visited by the majority. According to legends, it is also considered one of the Shakti Peeths where the heart of Goddess Sati is said to have fallen.
The hill is reachable either by a ropeway, or a trek of slightly over 900 steps. Once on the hilltop, you can take in panoramic views of the Aravalli range as the shade and quiet of this region and spiritual energy provides a great atmosphere to contemplate peacefully in the hills.
Why Go : For spiritual calm, nature walks and hilltop views of mythological importance.
Why Gujarat for Hill Escapes?
Indian states such as Himachal and Uttarakhand do get all the hill station limelight, but Gujarat can offer unique features unmatched by others, which combine nature, culture, history and tranquillity. You experience these locations without commercial interference. The benefit of lesser footfall means that the beauty is not compromised. A weekend visit or a longer stay in any of these not-so-obvious places will leave you refreshed.
The Best Time to Visit the Hill Stations
All of the hill stations are to be visited between October and March for pleasant weather; monsoon months (June to September) will show their vibrant green splendor and are a good time to visit if rain-streaked views and misty mountains excite you.
Conclusion
If you assumed Gujarat was just about the great Rann of Kutch, Gir lions, and forts of interest, then you need to broaden your thinking. If you consider them lesser-known, Gujarat has hill stations that have the notion of being natural hotspots, blended with cultural experiences, and tranquility of surroundings.
You have Wilson Hills, which have the views facing the sea, Don which is an unexplored hiker’s trail by self promotion, Pavagadh with its historical significance, and Gabbar Hill and its spirituality. These hill-stations will set an experience at least hold dear to them and would contribute to the idea of being a bit Gujarat.
So, in the way of travel for the next time, with the option to skip, do not confuse yourself with the bygone or the cliché, travel to the hills, even the lesser-known hill-stations in Gujarat.
