Wego, the number 1 travel app and the largest online travel marketplace in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), shares recommendations on some of the best hill stations to visit in India this new year and top activities to do there.
Darjeeling
Promenade through the Darjeeling Mall for the colonial charm of yesteryears while sampling dumplings, shopping for unique knick-knacks, and sipping on freshly brewed Darjeeling tea. Board the toy trains for a joy ride up the mountains as you leave the old town behind for a glimpse of Mt. Kangchenjunga. Hike up the Tiger Hill before sunrise to witness breaking dawn on the snowcaps.
Hotel prices start from INR 2240 on Wego. Luxe rooms at plush hotels like MAYFAIR Darjeeling are also available.
Gangtok
As a gateway town, Gangtok has a variety of enticing activities. Hop on the back of a yak along the meandering road at Tsomgo Lake, take a stop on the way to Lachen for a visit to Seven Sisters Waterfall. Visitors can take a dip in the Phurchachu Reshi Hot Spring or visit the crystal clear still waters of the Khecheopalri Lake.
Hotel prices in Gangtok start from INR 2000 on Wego.
Leh-Ladakh
Feel the chill while skating on the Pangong Tso. Adventurers will enjoy trekking up the frozen Zanskar River and climbing the roads of the Magnetic Hill.
Hotel prices in Leh start at INR 3720 on Wego.
Gulmarg
With new train services from the heart of the country, Gulmarg is part of every winter lover’s bucket list. Be one of the first to attend the glory of the frozen cascades of the Drury Waterfall, or board the Gulmarg Gondola for a true bird’s eye view of the winter wonderland.
Accommodation at cozy Gulmarg resorts start from INR 3630 on Wego.
Shillong
When in Shillong, revel in the Meghalayan beauty with a visit to the Elephant Falls and a stroll through Ward’s Lake. Visit Umiam Lake for some moments of tranquility.
Hotel prices start from INR 4650 with a selection of resorts available on Wego.
Manali
Head over to Manali for some elemental fun. For those chasing adrenaline—paraglide in Solang Valley and ride the waves while rafting through Beas River. For a slower pace, walk down the heart of Manali at the Mall Road or saunter through Old Manali.
Hotel prices at Manali start from INR 2500 on Wego.
Ooty
Take your time to smell the roses in Ooty Rose Garden, experience the beauty of time and nature by riding the Ooty toy train. Enjoy the riveting beauty of the Nilgiris and the native floras while rowing on a boat ride at the Ooty Lake. Marvel at the 19th-century Gothic-style architecture at St.Stephen’s Church, or visit the Doddabetta Peak.
Hotel prices in Ooty start from INR 3650 on Wego, with more premium hotels like Planters Punch and other luxurious abodes also available on the platform.
Mussoorie
Get a horseback ride up the usually snow-clad Camel’s Back Road during sunrise or sunset, or hike through the lush green panoramic trails of Nag Tibba for an extraordinary view of the Himalayas or the Cloud’s End. Picnic near Mussoorie Lake before shopping for local handmade jewelry, handicrafts and woolen garments at Kulri Bazaar and Library Bazaar.
Hotel prices in Mussoorie start from INR 3900 on Wego.
Nainital
Take in a bird’s eye view of Naini Lake in a ropeway cablecar before making snow angels at Snow Viewpoint, or use the boon of chilly weather to connect with nature at the Eco cave gardens and Nainital Zoo.
Hotel prices in Nainital start from INR 7000 on Wego.
Dalhousie
Visit the Panchpula Waterfall to watch the slow dance of the streams, the mountains and the unique greens on the pine and Deodar trees. Explore Chamera Lake on a boat, or take a walk around the Rock Garden before laying down a blanket for a picnic with a resplendent view of the Himalayas. A trip to the Indo-Tibetian Market at Gandhi Chowk is a must.
Hotel prices in Dalhousie start from INR 3000 on Wego.