Whereas Varanasi is a city of soul with a rich history, at times, all one requires is a breeze, some green hills, and a quiet life. Whether you’re looking to break away for the weekend or a few days of vacation, these surrounding hill destinations provide anything from mist-shrouded forests and old temples to waterfalls and wildlife. Here’s a closer look at the best hill stations around Varanasi:
1. Mirzapur – The Closest Hill Retreat
- Distance: ~65 km
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- Ideal For: Short tours, nature walks, waterfalls
- Why Visit: Mirzapur is situated on the foot of the Vindhya Hills and is surrounded by forests, rivers, and waterfalls. It’s a quiet destination for pilgrims as well as nature lovers.
Top Attractions:
- Vindhyachal Temple – One of the sacred Shakti Peeths.
- Windham and Tanda Falls – Seasonal waterfalls, best during monsoon and post-monsoon.
- Sita Kund & Ojhala River – Peaceful picnic places with scenic beauty.
Local Experiences:
- Take a sunrise boat ride in Ojhala River.
- Visit local brassware and handicraft markets.
Local Food to Try:
- Local thalis, khasta kachori, and Mirzapuri laddus.
How to Reach:
- Widely accessible by road in less than 2 hours from Varanasi via NH35. Taxis and buses are accessible.
2. Rajgir – Hills with History
- Distance: ~250 km
- Best Time to Visit: November to February
- Best For: Historians, families, pilgrims
- Why Go: Rajgir is encircled by rolling hills and rich in Buddhist and Jain heritage. The soothing surroundings and old ruins make it a perfect hill getaway.
Top Attractions:
- Ratnagiri Hills – Ropeway to Vishwa Shanti Stupa.
- Hot Springs (Brahmakund) – Spiritual and medicinal.
- Bamboo Grove, Cyclopean Wall – Historic sites connected with Buddha.
Local Experiences:
- See the remains of Nalanda University (20 km away).
- Experience spiritual chants and meditation at Japanese temples.
Local Food to Try:
- Litti-chokha, sattu paratha, and chana ghugni.
How to Reach:
- Trains from Gaya to Rajgir or Varanasi. Buses and taxis from Gaya and Patna.
3. Netarhat – The Queen of Chotanagpur
- Distance: ~320 km
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- Ideal For: Couples, offbeat travelers, nature lovers
- Why Visit: Situated in Jharkhand, Netarhat provides breezy pine-clad hills, quaint colonial structures, and breathtaking sunsets.
Top Attractions:
- Magnolia Point – Breathtaking sunset view.
- Upper Ghaghri Falls & Netarhat Dam – Perfect relaxation and photo opportunity.
- Forests & Tribal Villages – Offbeat culture and nature.
Local Experiences:
- Experience tribal culture and handicrafts in the surrounding villages.
- Reside in colonial-era British bungalows converted to tourist guesthouses.
Local Food to Try:
- Local tribal food, Jharkhandi fish curry, and homemade thekua.
How to Reach:
- Travel to Ranchi by train/air, then cab or bus to Netarhat (around 150 km from Ranchi).
4. Kaimur Hills (Robertsganj – Sonbhadra Region)
- Distance: ~100 km
- Best Time to Visit: November to February
- Ideal For: Nature enthusiasts, history enthusiasts, weekend getaways
- Why Visit: The Kaimur Hills of Robertsganj and Sonbhadra are replete with waterfalls, caves, and prehistoric rock paintings – all set amidst idyllic hill scenery.
Top Attractions:
- Salkhan Fossils Park – Fossils of ancient sea fossils.
- Vishwa Tapovan Ashram – Serene spiritual destination.
- Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary – Deer, birds, and waterfalls inhabit here.
Local Food to Try:
- Sattu Paratha and Litti-Chokha – Village favorites
- Bajre ki Roti with Saag – Village specialty meal
- Mahua Ladoo – Tribal sweet (seasonal)
- Eat food at village homes or dhabas for local flavor
How to Reach:
- Drive from Varanasi on NH2. Direct trains and buses are also available to Robertsganj.
5. Chitrakoot – Hills of Legends
- Distance: ~275 km
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- Ideal For: Religious tourism, quiet nature stay, family trips
- Why Visit: Located in the Vindhya range, Chitrakoot is a mythologically significant and serene hill town with rivers, caves, and temples.
Top Attractions:
- Kamadgiri Hill – Said to be the residence of Lord Rama.
- Gupt Godavari & Hanuman Dhara – Caves of religious significance.
- Sphatik Shila – A stunning riverside rock.
Local Food to Try:
- Kachori-Sabzi and Malpua – Notable breakfast items
- Peda from nearby sweet shops – A must-try prasad sweet
- Temple aartis, river pujas, and sadhus’ chants – Profound spiritual ambiance
- Visit during Ram Navami or Amavasya for local rituals and festivals
How to Reach:
- Well connected by road and railway. You may also drive from Varanasi along NH35 and NH39.
Must Visit: Visit Sonbhadra A Picturesque Hill Station Experience Just 120 km from Varanasi
Travel Tips for Your Getaway from Varanasi
- Weekend Friendly: Mirzapur and Rajgir can be visited in 1–2 days; others require 3–4 days.
- Monsoon Advisory: Steer clear of heavy travel during peak monsoon to escape landslides or bad road conditions.
- Local Transport: Take cabs or autos in small towns; public transport might be limited.
- Stay Options: Pre-book hotels or guesthouses, particularly in tourist season.
- Respect Local Culture: Dress conservatively, particularly at temples or religious places.
Conclusion
If you’re craving mountain air, spiritual calm, or just a refreshing change, these hill stations near Varanasi offer something for everyone. From the sacred hills of Rajgir to the untamed charm of Netarhat and the cultural richness of Champawat, these lesser-explored gems are ideal for a short retreat. Whether it’s for nature, peace, or a bit of history – your perfect hill escape is just a few hours away.
