Traveling to Himachal has become easier than ever—great roads, quick weekend plans, and social media hype. But this easy access has also made most popular spots crowded, especially during holidays. Weekend getaways to Himachal have become super popular—but that’s exactly why most tourist places often get packed, especially during holidays.
If you’ve been scrolling through endless posts trying to find the best hill stations in Himachal Pradesh, you’re not alone. Between the snow-capped views, peaceful valleys, and that first sip of hot chai on a misty morning—Himachal has something magical for everyone.
But here’s the truth—most travel guides only mention the usual crowded places like Shimla, Manali, and Dharamshala. What if you could visit hill stations that are easy to reach, budget-friendly, and full of peace and charm?
In this guide, you’ll find our top 5 picks for the best hill stations in Himachal Pradesh for 2025. These aren’t just destinations—they’re experiences, each with its own vibe, climate, and charm.
Top 5 Hill Stations in Himachal Pradesh for 2026
- Chail
- Barot
- Palampur
- Tirthan Valley
- Mashobra
Wait, wait… you’re probably wondering—where’s Shimla and Kullu-Manali on this list?
And honestly, that’s a fair question—but that’s exactly why we made this guide.
Himachal is so much more than just Shimla and Manali. Over the past 4–5 years, these places have become super crowded with tourists. And honestly, what’s the point of a hill getaway if you can’t find peace, enjoy the vibe, or even spend quality time with your group?
Each of these less crowded hill stations in Himachal gives you stunning views, cozy stays, and memorable outdoor & fun activities without needing a luxury budget.
1. Chail – The Royal Hideaway in the Hills
Chail is a peaceful hill station tucked away in the Solan district of Himachal Pradesh, just 45 km from Shimla. It was once the summer capital of the Maharaja of Patiala, and that royal legacy still echoes in its palaces, forests, and charming old-world vibe. While Shimla is bustling with tourists, Chail remains quiet, serene, and surrounded by lush deodar forests—making it a perfect place for travelers looking to unwind in nature.
One of Chail’s biggest claims to fame is that it houses the highest cricket ground in the world, built in 1893 at an altitude of 2,444 meters. It also has royal architecture, wildlife, and clean mountain air—without the crowds.
Things to Do:
- Visit Chail Palace – The Palace, was once the Summer Retreat of the Maharajas of Patiala. Today, it stands as a heritage hotel, welcoming visitors to explore its regal charm. Be sure to admire the vintage furniture and stroll through its beautifully maintained lawns.
- Chail Cricket Ground – The highest cricket ground in the world (2,444 m), surrounded by trees. A great photo spot!
- Forest Walks & Picnics – The peaceful deodar forests are perfect for morning hikes, nature photography, and quiet picnics.
- Kali Ka Tibba Temple – A peaceful hilltop temple with panoramic views, ideal for sunsets and spiritual moments.
- Explore Chail Wildlife Sanctuary – One of the oldest in Himachal. If you’re lucky, you may spot deer, wild boars, or even Himalayan black bears.
Weather & Best Time to Visit:
- Summer (March–June): Pleasant weather, with temperatures between 15–25°C. Great for walks and outdoor fun.
- Autumn to Early Winter (Oct–Dec): Clear skies, cool evenings, and a cozy atmosphere—ideal for forest stays.
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Occasional snowfall; beautiful if you want a snowy escape.
How to Reach:
- By Road: Chail is well-connected by road and is approximately a 2-hour drive (around 45 km) from both Shimla and Solan. You can reach Chail via Kandaghat from Solan or via Chail Kufri road from Shimla.
- By Rail: The nearest major railhead is Kalka, connected by the Kalka-Shimla heritage toy train and roadways.
- By Air: The closest airport is Jubarhatti (Shimla Airport), roughly 60 km away.
2. Barot – A Peaceful Valley Full of Nature and History
Barot is a quiet and beautiful place located in the Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh. It sits at a height of 1,835 meters on the banks of the Uhl River, surrounded by tall pine trees and green hills. It’s perfect for anyone looking to escape busy tourist spots and enjoy a calm, natural setting.
Barot became known in the 1920s when the Shanan Hydro Project was built. To bring materials to this site, the Kangra Valley Railway was made up to Jogindernagar. From there, a special haulage trolley system was used to carry equipment over the mountains—up one side and down the other. Surprisingly, both the railway and trolley still exist today and are part of Barot’s charm.
It’s especially popular among anglers, as the Uhl River is one of the few rivers in Himachal where trout fishing is permitted. With its serene landscapes, wooden houses, and local village charm, Barot is perfect for travelers who want a break from the crowds and a closer connection to nature.
Things to Do:
- Trout Fishing in the Uhl River – Barot has one of the oldest trout farms in Himachal. Fishing is allowed with permission.
- Riverside Camping – Relax by the river with bonfires, fresh air, and stunning views.
- Trek to Bada Bhangal – This is a tough but beautiful trek that connects Barot to the Kangra valley.
- Explore Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary – Right across the river, the forest here is home to many animals and birds like monals and ghorals. It’s also full of useful and rare plants.
- Haulage Trolley Ride (if available) – A unique ride over the hills that shows how equipment was moved in the early 1900s.
Weather & Best Time to Visit:
Barot stays cool throughout the year.
- April to June: Great weather for fishing, trekking, and sightseeing.
- Monsoon (July–Sept): Very green, but roads may be slippery.
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Snowfall is common, creating a winter wonderland feel.
How to Reach:
- By Road: Barot is about 65 km from Mandi and can be reached through Jhatingri, where the kings of Mandi once had a summer palace.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Bhuntar (Kullu), about 110 km away.
- By Rail: Jogindernagar is the closest railway station, part of the scenic Kangra Valley toy train route.
3. Palampur – A Quiet Tea Town with Mountain Views
Palampur is a scenic hill station in HP, located in the Kangra district, known for its tea gardens, clean air, and views of the Dhauladhar mountains. It’s often called the “Tea Capital of North India”, and once you see the endless green slopes and fresh mountain streams, you’ll know why.
The name Palampur comes from three words—‘pani’ meaning water, ‘alam’ meaning environment or home, and ‘pur’ meaning place or settlement. So, Palampur simply means “a place where there is lots of rainfall.” The town has many small water channels and springs flowing through it. Palampur is also full of natural charm and has a calm vibe that’s perfect if you want to take a break from the crowd.
Things to Do in Palampur:
- Wah Tea Estate – Walk through green tea gardens, take a guided tour, and try freshly brewed tea.
- Tashi Jong Monastery – A peaceful monastery with Tibetan art, prayer flags, and a calm atmosphere.
- Paragliding in Bir-Billing (about 40 km away) – If you’re up for an adventure, this is one of the best places in the world for paragliding.
- Andretta Village – Just outside Palampur, this little artist village is home to pottery studios, the Sobha Singh Art Gallery, and beautiful mountain views.
- Café hopping – Try herbal teas, local dishes, and cakes at small hillside cafés around the town.
Weather & Best Time to Visit:
- March to June – Pleasant weather, perfect for walking through tea gardens and sightseeing.
- September to November – The sky is clear, and the greenery looks fresh after the rains.
- Winters (Dec to Feb) – It gets cold, but snowfall usually happens only on nearby peaks, not in town.
How to Reach:
- By Train: Nearest major station is Pathankot. From there, you can take the Kangra Valley toy train to Palampur.
- By Road: Good road connectivity from Dharamshala (35 km) and nearby towns.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Kangra Airport (Gaggal), around 40 km away.
4. Tirthan Valley– Where Nature Stays Pure
Tirthan Valley, located in the Banjar region of Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh, is one of those rare places where nature still feels untouched. This serene valley is named after the Tirthan River, which originates from the glaciers of Himachal’s Tirath Peak at an altitude of over 4,000 meters.
The river flows through alpine forests and quiet villages before merging into the Beas near Larji. It sits at the edge of the Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The valley gets its name from the Tirthan River, which flows gently through pine-covered hills and sleepy hamlets.
Unlike commercial tourist spots, Tirthan hasn’t been overrun by hotels or crowds. It’s ideal for nature lovers, backpackers, and anyone looking to switch off from busy city life. The calm of the river, chirping birds, and fresh air are reasons enough to fall in love with this hidden valley. The region is part of a high-altitude eco-zone, making it an important hotspot for ecotourism and conservation tourism in India.
Things to Do in Tirthan Valley:
- River Walks & Trout Fishing – The crystal-clear Tirthan River is famous for trout. You can go fishing (with a permit) or just enjoy long peaceful riverside walks.
- Waterfall Treks – Short and rewarding hikes through pine forests lead to hidden waterfalls. The trek to Chhoie Waterfall is especially popular.
- Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP) – A must-visit for trekkers and wildlife lovers. The entry point is nearby, and you can opt for guided treks that go deep into the forest.
- Stargazing & Bonfires – With minimal light pollution, the valley offers stunning night skies. Most stays arrange bonfires with local music and stories.
- Bird Watching – Tirthan is a paradise for bird lovers. You might spot colorful pheasants, woodpeckers, and Himalayan monals.
Weather & Best Time to Visit:
- April to July – Perfect weather for riverside walks, trout fishing, and hikes.
- October to early November – Crisp air, clear skies, and beautiful autumn colors.
- Winters (Dec–Feb) – Gets very cold, with occasional snowfall in higher areas. Not ideal unless you’re used to chilly climates.
How to Reach:
- By Train: Nearest railhead is Joginder Nagar. You’ll need to take a taxi or bus from there.
- By Road: It’s an 8–10 hour scenic drive from Chandigarh.
- By Air: Nearest airport is Bhuntar (Kullu-Manali Airport), around 50 km away.
5. Mashobra – A Quiet Escape Just 10 km from Shimla
Just 10 km from Shimla, the popular capital of Himachal Pradesh, lies Mashobra—a serene hill station tucked away in pine and oak forests. While Shimla often feels overcrowded, Mashobra offers the exact opposite: peaceful trails, quiet orchards, and views that stretch endlessly into the hills.
Located in the Shimla district, Mashobra was a summer retreat for the British during colonial rule. In fact, it still houses the Rashtrapati Niwas Retreat, one of the official residences of the President of India—open to public visits during select months. The town retains its old-world charm while embracing responsible tourism with clean air, heritage properties, and eco-trails.
Mashobra sits at an elevation of around 2,146 meters (7,040 feet), making it one of the highest hill stations in the Shimla circuit—perfect for those who want cool temperatures, charming scenery, and a chance to escape the tourist rush.
Things to Do in Tirthan Valley:
- Explore the Reserve Forest Sanctuary – One of Asia’s largest watersheds, the Mashobra Reserve Forest Sanctuary is rich in biodiversity. It’s home to leopards, barking deer, pheasants, and exotic Himalayan flora. Entry is permitted only via guided trails—making it ideal for eco-tourists and bird watchers.
- Mountain Biking & Nature Trails – The pine-covered slopes around Mashobra are perfect for cycling and short hikes. There are trails leading toward Craignano, Carignano Nature Park, and further toward Naldehra for golf enthusiasts.
- Village Cafes & Local Cuisine – Skip the big restaurants—try local Himachali dishes like siddu, madra, and babru at family-run cafes. Villages like Baldiyan and Pateog offer immersive food experiences and warm hospitality.
- Fruit Orchard Walks – Mashobra is famous for apple and plum orchards. Visit during spring and early summer for blossom views, or during late summer to enjoy fresh fruit. Many homestays offer orchard walks and apple-picking experiences.
Weather & Best Time to Visit:
- March to June: Ideal for walking, sightseeing, and enjoying fruit orchards. Temperatures range from 12°C to 25°C.
- October to February: Perfect for snow lovers. Winter blankets the village in snow and transforms it into a cozy white wonderland.
- July to September: Monsoon adds charm but be cautious—hilly roads can be slippery.
How to Reach Mashobra:
- By Road: Just 10 km from Shimla; taxis and buses run frequently.
- By Train: Take the Kalka–Shimla toy train to Shimla and drive from there.
- By Air: Nearest airport is Shimla Airport (Jubarhatti), about 35 km away. The short distance from Shimla makes Mashobra a favorite for weekend trips and quick nature escapes.
Why Visit These Less Crowded Hill Stations in Himachal Pradesh?
There are over a dozen hill stations in Himachal Pradesh, each offering something unique but sometimes, all you need is a break—from the busy office routine, endless meetings, or the city’s daily rush. Maybe you’ve finally managed to take a few days off just to spend quality time with your family, friends, or even yourself. That’s where these lesser-known hill stations in Himachal Pradesh come in.
Over the years, Himachal Pradesh has quietly preserved some of its most breathtaking destinations—places that offer the perfect balance of natural beauty, peace, and affordability.
These lesser-known hill stations are worth visiting not just for their scenic charm, but because they offer what many crowded tourist spots no longer can:Here’s why these hidden gems are worth your time:
- Perfect for Short Trips: If you’re planning a 2–3 day weekend escape, these places are ideal. They’re peaceful, closer to cities like Chandigarh or Delhi, and don’t need a lot of planning.
- Budget-Friendly: From cozy homestays starting at ₹500–800 per night to affordable local food and free nature trails—you can enjoy a fulfilling trip without overspending.
- Instagram-Worthy Without Crowds: Everyone wants to fill their Instagram feed with aesthetic, scroll-stopping content these days. These hidden and untouched places are exactly what you need to refresh your feed with unique, nature-rich vibes—minus the photobombers.
- Peace & Solitude: If you’re tired of crowded cafés and noisy hill traffic, these hill stations offer quiet moments, fresh air, and meaningful experiences that help you truly recharge.
Final Thoughts
Every hill station in Himachal has its own story—and these five are no different.
Chail feels like royalty wrapped in pine forests. Barot whispers calm with every bend of the Uhl River. Palampur offers tea-scented air and mountain peace, while Tirthan Valley gives you stargazing, riverside walks, and a deep breath your city soul needed. And Mashobra? Just close enough to Shimla, but far from the chaos—quiet, green, and timeless.
If you’re searching for the best hill station in Himachal Pradesh, it’s not always the most crowded one—it’s the one that makes you feel alive, seen, and at peace.
You’ll return not just with photos, but with stories, stillness, and maybe a few extra momos in your backpack.
Because in Himachal, the hills don’t just call—they heal.
