When summer sets in in India, the air in the plains becomes unbearable, forcing travelers to look for cooler climes. While well-known hill stations such as Shimla and Manali get crowds galore, there are numerous offbeat hill stations in North India that provide a serene getaway. These offbeat summer retreats India are ideal for escaping the heat, with cooler climates, breathtaking scenery, and low tourist crowds. If you want less crowded hill stations to have a cool summer vacation, this compilation of 10 offbeat hill stations in North India is the answer. Let’s take a closer look at these cool locations to get away from heat and have your summer really special!
Why Offbeat Hill Stations in North India?
Touristy hill stations tend to get crowded in summer, and one may find it difficult to unwind and appreciate nature. Offbeat hill stations in North India fill this void—relaxation, pleasant climate, and an opportunity to witness unspoiled nature. Offbeat hill stations in India provide you with the luxury of enjoying picturesque views, pure mountain air, and neighborhood culture sans tourist cacophony. Whether you’re an avid nature enthusiast, a trekker going solo, or a family vacationer, these offbeat hill stations are a great getaway. Visiting offbeat hill stations in North India ensures that you escape the heat of summer while making memories in a relaxed, unspoiled setting.
1.Chopta, Uttarakhand – The Mini Switzerland of India
Situated at an altitude of 2,700 meters, Chopta is one of North India’s most beautiful offbeat hill stations. Referred to as the “Mini Switzerland of India,” it provides pleasant temperatures at 15-20°C during summer. Framed by green meadows and Himalayan ranges, Chopta is a paradise for trekkers with routes to Tungnath Temple and Chandrashila Peak. This secret summer destination India is ideal for those looking for serenity and panoramic views far from popular places.
2.Jibhi, Himachal Pradesh – A Riverside Getaway
Jibhi at 2,000 meters in Himachal Pradesh’s Banjar Valley is a hidden treasure among offbeat North India hill stations. Summer temperatures are a comfortable 12-24°C here, and Jibhi is a lovely retreat. Surrounded by dense forests, waterfalls, and Victorian-era cottages, this cool retreat from heat is perfect for nature enthusiasts. Hike to Jibhi Waterfall or visit the nearby Great Himalayan National Park for wildlife spotting. Jibhi’s serene vibe makes it a top choice for a quiet summer retreat.
3.Pangot, Uttarakhand – A Birdwatcher’s Haven
Pangot, a small village at 2,100 meters in Uttarakhand, is one of the less crowded hill stations perfect for summer. Only 15 km from Nainital, Pangot provides temperatures between 15-23°C and is encircled by the Naina Devi Himalayan bird sanctuary. It is home to more than 250 bird species and is a bird lover’s paradise. This quirky North Indian hill station allows you to wake up to the chirping of birds, have tea sitting beneath oak trees, and get an undisturbed night’s sleep in cozy cottages.
4.Shoja, Himachal Pradesh – A Scenic Village
Shoja, measuring 2,692 meters in the Seraj Valley of Himachal Pradesh, is one of the unusual hill stations of North India with glorious Himalayan scenery. Summer temperatures vary from 14-22°C, and it is a nice location to beat heat. Surrounded by lush meadows and dense forests, Shoja provides treks to Serolsar Lake and Jalori Pass, which is just 5 km away. This offbeat summer retreat India has an old-world charm, which is well-suited for a relaxing holiday.
5.Rajgarh, Himachal Pradesh – The Peach Valley
Rajgarh, which is 1,555 meters high in Himachal Pradesh’s Sirmaur district, is a charming offbeat hill station in North India called the Peach Valley. With summer temperatures ranging from 18-25°C, it’s renowned for its fruit orchards and fresh breezes. Visit apple and peach orchards or take in panoramic views of the Shivalik range. This offbeat hill station is less populated and comes with a relaxed atmosphere, so it’s an ideal place for a summer retreat.
6.Kausani, Uttarakhand – The Switzerland of India
Kausani, 1,890 meters above sea level in Uttarakhand, is one of North India’s offbeat hill stations commonly referred to as the “Switzerland of India.” With summer temperatures ranging from 15-25°C, it presents breathtaking vistas of Himalayan summits such as Nanda Devi. Explore Anasakti Ashram, take a walk along tea gardens, or merely bask in the calm. Kausani is a secret summer resort India ideal for a serene retreat.
7.Munsiyari, Uttarakhand – Gateway to the Himalayas
Munsiyari, 2,200 meters in Uttarakhand, is a picturesque offbeat North Indian hill station with summer temperatures ranging from 15-22°C. Famous for its panorama of the Panchachuli peaks, Munsiyari is a treasure trove for trekkers and birdwatchers. Trekking routes to Khaliya Top and nearby pine forests make Munsiyari a cool destination to flee the heat. The less popular hill station provides solitude and nature’s canvas to relish a fresh summer holiday.
8.Tirthan Valley, Himachal Pradesh – A Nature Lover’s Paradise
Tirthan Valley, which stands at 1,600 meters in Himachal Pradesh, is one of North India’s offbeat hill stations close to the Great Himalayan National Park. Summer temperatures here range from 15-22°C, making it perfect for a serene retreat. Indulge in trout fishing in the Tirthan River, trek to Serolsar Lake, or relax in a riverside bungalow. Tirthan Valley is India’s secret summer retreat that offers adventure and relaxation.
9.Chaukori, Uttarakhand – Offbeat Tea Garden Retreat
Chaukori at 2,010 meters is a charming offbeat hill station in North India with summer temperatures between 15-24°C. Overlooking tea gardens and Himalayan peaks, it provides breathtaking sunrise opportunities. Go to local tea estates or nearby temples such as Patal Bhuvaneshwar. This less touristy hill station is a refreshing retreat from heat, ideal for a peaceful summer holiday.
10.Kanatal, Uttarakhand – A Quiet Himalayan Escape
Kanatal, at 2,590 meters in Uttarakhand, is one of the offbeat hill stations in North India with summer temperatures around 14-23°C. Just 78 km from Dehradun, Kanatal offers lush forests, apple orchards, and views of snow-capped peaks. Trek to Surkanda Devi Temple or enjoy camping under the stars. This hidden summer getaway India is ideal for those seeking a quiet Himalayan escape.
Tips for Travel to Unconventional Hill Stations in North India
- Pack Intelligently: Carry light woolens for cold nights, comfortable trekking shoes, and sunscreen for bright days.
- Best Time: Summer (March-June) is ideal to visit these cool destinations to beat the heat with favorable weather for adventure activities.
- Travel Light: Infrastructure in these unconventional hill stations of North India may be minimal, so carry the indispensable like water and snacks.
- Respect Nature: Don’t litter and respect local traditions to maintain the serenity of these offbeat hill stations.
Why These Offbeat Hill Stations Are Perfect for Summer
These 10 offbeat hill stations of North India provide a refreshing way to escape the summer heat. With cooler temperatures, breathtaking landscapes, and fewer tourists, they’re the perfect offbeat summer retreats India for tourists looking for solitude. Whether you’re hiking in Shoja, birdwatching in Pangot, or relaxing in Rajgarh’s orchards, these cool places to escape heat promise a memorable summer escape. Skip the crowded spots and explore these offbeat hill stations in North India for a truly rejuvenating break.
