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Amritsar is a bustling city and it is a major tourist spot in itself for those who are not residents here. People come from all over the country, as well as the world to catch a glimpse of the famed Golden Temple, and to taste the delicious cuisine. However, for those who stay here, it is only natural that they would want to get away for a while from the city for a vacation of their own. And what can be better than going away to a hill station? Amritsar, situated in the northern part of India in the state of Punjab, has many stunning hill stations within close proximity and the beauty of the Himalayas is always amazing to behold, no matter from where you see it or how many times. Here are some of the mesmerizing hill stations near Amritsar and you must make it a point to visit at least some of them:
Jammu: Jammu is the winter capital of the state of Jammu and Kashmir and it also happens to be known as the City of Temples. This hill station is stunningly beautiful and you can see the snow capped mountains up close and personal. You will love the cuisine of the land and the blend of spices that are used to make them make it equally unique and exceedingly delicious at the same time. Jammu has a number of ancient shrines and temples and being located on the banks of the Tawi river near the foothills of Himalayas, it is also known as the gateway to Kashmir. You will get a magnificent view of the Pir Panjal range and by the time you are back your bags will be full to bursting because of the exquisite woolen garments that you buy from the local markets.
Distance from Amritsar: 154 km
Best time to Visit: October to February
This beautiful town is located in the western part of the district of Himachal Pradesh and its lies about 18 kilometres south of Dharamshala. You will get a magnificent view of the Shivalik Range as well as the Dhauladhar range and the city happens to overlook the beautiful Ban Ganga river. This city is also known as Dev Bhoomi because of the number of temples that are located here. You can go boatingin the Kareri lake and you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to shopping for local goods. Do not forget to buy the famous Himachali apples from here.
Distance from Amritsar: 184 km
Best time to Visit: March to June
Perhaps one of the holiest rhymes for the Hindus, Vaishno Devi temple sees pilgrims coming to it from all over the world. The temple is closed during the very harsh winter months but located at an altitude of 5300 feet, this happens to be one of the most important temples and also a Shakti Peeth. Going to the temple is an act of strength in itself because one has to trek for miles through rocky mountains to get to the main temple. Everyone from old couples to newlyweds come to the temple to seek the blessings of the Goddess. To reach the temple one has to first travel to Katra and from there trek for the last 14 kilometres to the main temple. It is one of the best hill stations near Amritsar.
Distance from Amritsar: 188 km
Best time to Visit: March to October
This small hill town was originally known as Bhagsu and is located in the Kangra district. Recently it has also been selected to be developed as one of the smart cities mission program by the central government. The population of this Hill town is not much and just about exceeds 50000 and yet the number of tourists that come here round the year makes it one of the most crowded hill stations in recent times. You can catch a glimpse of the famous Dhauladhar Mountains and there are innumerable trekking trails leading away from the city. It is also one of the spots where the Tibetan refugees reside in large numbers, so if you are interested in their culture this is one of the best places to be in. You will love trekking through the dense forests and mountains and if you are the adventurous sort then this will definitely make it to your list of most loved places.
Distance from Amritsar: 192 km
Best time to Visit: March to June
This city is also known by the name of Little Lhasa because of the wonderful valleys and pristine mountain ranges. This also happens to be the residence of his holiness the 14th Dalai Lama who now has taken a permanent residence in India after his exile from Tibet. Along with him there are many other Tibetans who are living in exile and this city has now become a refuge for them. This town is just about three kilometres away from the above-mentioned Dharamshala and you have to visit one when you visit the other. Once you are here, you will be taken in by the warmth of the local Tibetans and the food that they serve here is the most sumptuous that you have ever tasted. There are a number of adventure activities to be enjoyed like paragliding and skiing during the winters. Do not forget to visit the temple of the Dalai Lama and his residence. If you are fortunate you may even get a chance to hear him deliver one of his speeches when he is in the country.
Distance from Amritsar: 198 km
Best time to Visit: October to June
This Hill town is also known as the Mini Switzerland of India because you will not have encountered such beauty anywhere else in the country. This town is famous for its mesmerizing lake and the forest are home to a number of orchids and birds. If you are a bird watcher and if you are in time then you can also catch a glimpse of the various migratory birds that visit the lakes and make it their home during the cold winter months. You can visit this picaresque hill town also during the winters if you want to experience snowfall but beware of the rainy season because the roads leading up to the town can get a bit tricky.
Distance from Amritsar: 194 km
Best time to Visit: Throughout the year
This hill station is located between the Shivalik Range in the Himalayas and can be easily accessed through the National Highway 44 from the town of Udhampur. Majestic River Chenab flows through this town and if you want to visit a hill station during winters, there cannot be an ideal spot. During this time of the year this hill station looks straight out of the fairy tales with a thick blanket of snow covering all the trees and houses. Of course, the heavy snowfall can also block the roads but if you have enough time on your hands and it is nature’s beauty that you want to see, then there is no reason to complain.
Distance from Amritsar: 204 km
Best time to Visit: November to July
Palampur is famous because of the numerous tea plantations that are stretched for miles along the hillsides. This town is situated in the foothills of the Dhauladhar Range and you will find out about the locals once you are here. The town is also known as the Tea Capital of North India and if you go through the plantation you can see for yourself how tea is germinated, grown, and finally processed before it comes to your table. There are some private tea plantations over here that also give tea tours. Do not forget to stock up on your bag of tea before you leave. There is a Tea Museum in the vicinity as well.
Distance from Amritsar: 205 km
Best time to Visit: March to June
If you want to go to a hill station with the temperatures goes below the freezing point then this is for you. Winters in Sanasar will see you shivering with cold because the temperature is down as low as minus five degrees. However the summers are pleasant and you can reach this hill town directly from the Jammu region. Since this is one of the lesser known hill stations in India, the place isn’t very crowded and you get to experience the full beauty of nature. It is basically made up of two villages known as Sana and Sir of the Jammu region. You can try out a number of adventure activities here as well like paragliding, rock climbing and of course trekking.
Distance from Amritsar: 206 km
Best time to Visit: May to June and September to November
This is a small tourist town is located in Himachal Pradesh. If you want to get away from the chaos and stress of this city then there can be no better place. This town is basically constructed over five ancient canals which were built during the time of the Rajput rule in this region. Because it is located in the foothills of the Himalaya, there are many mountains streams and waterfalls which make great backdrops for stunningly beautiful photographs. Like any other hill station of the Himalayas, there are a number of trekking trails here as well and along with other birds and flowers you can also see peacocks roaming the paths!
Distance from Amritsar: 233 km
Best time to Visit: September to December
Kasauli has recently become one of the most loved hill stations in India and not without reason. Located in the Solan district of Himachal Pradesh, this hill station was first established by the British when it became impossible for them to bear the heat of the Indian summers in the plains. As a result there, are still a number of Victorian style buildings in this region and lately they have been converted into government offices or colonial themed hotels. A number of people are also choosing this as a location to buy their retirement home and one cannot question them. There are a number of forested areas around the town and they almost take on a dreamy and mysterious look. You will not want to leave this place once you are here.
Distance from Amritsar: 236 km
Best time to Visit: March to June
Parwanoo is a combination of scenic beauty as well as a lot of commercial city life. Once it was just like any other dreamy little hill town but now it has become an important route for transporting goods to the other mountain regions of Himachal Pradesh. The town itself is located at a height of 2500 metres above sea level and is nestled within the Trikut mountain range. It has also become a popular spot for mountain bikers.
Distance from Amritsar: 237 km
Best time to Visit: Throughout the year
This is basically an unknown small village located right in the middle of the Himalayas and is covered with wilderness on all sides. However, therein lies the charm of this place because only those who are avid nature lovers will take the trouble of coming here. Because it is not a popular tourist location, you will not find many facilities here but the beauty of nature will take your breath away. If you are planning to stay you for a few days then try to bring your own tent and also some food because you don’t know the amount of facilities that you will end up getting. About 5 kilometres from here lies the Jalori pass which is another popular trekking destination.
Distance from Amritsar: 241 km
Best time to Visit: June to October
Most people travel till Shimla, but then forget to visit a small hill town called Shogi which is about 15 kilometres away. Because this place is quite unknown to outsiders, you will not find the conventional crowd of tourists which makes staying here all the more special. You will get a panoramic view of the Himalayas. There are parts which are covered entirely with the deodar and pine vegetation. This town basically looks like a scene out of a fairytale and if you have always dreamt of staying in a mountain cottage, then this is where you get to fulfill your dream. As mentioned earlier, do not forget to carry some of your own supplies because this village is also not very high on facilities.
Distance from Amritsar: 247 km
Best time to Visit: March to November
Although Kullu is mentioned very frequently with Manali, it does not really get all the attention like the latter. Kullu is less crowded than Manali and that is why the scenes here are more picaresque. During winters you can see snow stretching away for miles in front of you. The roads are covered with pine trees on either side during winters. Tourists come here in large numbers for skiing. Accommodation facilities in Kullu are very good and the local markets are full of spices and woolen garments.
Distance from Amritsar: 251 km
Best time to Visit: October to June
This list will not be complete without mentioning Shimla which happens to be one of the most famous hill station in the entire country. It is at a height of 2200 metres, Shimla enjoys a pleasant climate almost round the year. This city was also established by the British and for a time it served as the summer capital of India. As a result, you will find a number of colonial buildings here which have now been converted into Heritage hotels. The beauty of this place is unparalleled and although the main city square is now crowded with a number of shops and guest houses, the outskirts of the city still remain as beautiful as ever and there is hardly any better place to relax your mind and soul. Do try out the amazing local cuisine. And the souvenir shops will make you shop till you drop.
Distance from Amritsar: 251 km
Best time to Visit: March to June
This town is located at a height of 2050 metres above sea level and you can travel to this destination on your way to Kullu. This hill town provides the perfect combination of rocky terrain and lavish greenery and there are a number of ancient temples here, making it a popular villages site for the locals. There is a national park in the outskirts of the town where you get to see a number of endangered species of birds and animals. During winters this town takes on a dreamy appearance and if it is the beauty of nature you seek, then you will feel completely at home.
Distance from Amritsar: 252 km
Best time to Visit: September to March
Chail was the summer capital of the princely province of Patiala and it is located about 63 km away from the town of Shimla. Located in Shivalik district, this small town stretches over three hills of Sadh Tiba, Pandewa and Rajgarh. While walking through the paths, you will be able to smell the pine forests and the deodar trees line the town on all sides. You can go camping here and simply lounge around and take in the beauty of nature.
Distance from Amritsar: 255 km
Best time to Visit: March to May
This town also falls in the Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh and the interesting feature of this town is that while travelling from Shimla to Mashobra one has to pass the Hindustan- Tibet Road which was built by Lord Dalhousie in 1850. Mashobra also happens to be a part of the Shimla Water Catchment Wildlife Sanctuary and as a result a number of flora and fauna are to be seen here. You can catch a glimpse of a large variety of monkeys, jackals, langoor, barking deer as well as leopards. The journey from Shimla to Mashobra is undoubtedly beautiful and the town itself will gift you with many memorable scenic moments.
Distance from Amritsar: 256 km
Best time to Visit: February to June
Also located in the state of Himachal Pradesh Kufri falls in the Shimla district and is located about 20 kilometres from the main city. The total population of this hill town just about crosses a thousand but you are during the summer months a large number of tourists now descend upon this place. The word Kufri itself comes from the word “Kufr” which means a lake. A number of trekking expeditions are organised from here by modern tour operators. It was originally a part of Nepal but was later given over to India and as a result a number of indigenous Nepalese still live here, which is why this town also has a rich Nepalese culture which is a joy to discover.
Distance from Amritsar: 260 km
Best time to Visit: April to November
This is a small and rather old Hamlet located in the Kullu district of Himachal and is located on the left Bank of the Beas river. The town is located at an elevation of 1800 metres and was once a part of the famed Kullu Kingdom. This tiny town is popular for its wonderful scenic beauty and you will get a chance to witness the pristine waters of the Beas river and the majestic mountains reflected in it. You will hardly find a more apt location to get away from the chaos of city life.
Distance from Amritsar: 261 km
Best time to Visit: October to November
Manali is located between the Dhauladhar and the Pir Panjal mountain range and is a course one of the most popular hill stations in India. It is located and at an elevation of 2050 metres and one can get a lovely view of the Beas river valley from here. It lies about 270 kilometres from the north of Shimla which is the state capital. You will get to witness the wonderful and sky reaching deodar and pine trees. The quaint mountain cottages now jostle with the new age hotels which have made the main city square a bit crowded but even now the natural beauty of Manali can give any other hill station around for its money.
Distance from Amritsar: 267 km
Best time to Visit: October to February
Kasol falls between two other hill towns of Bhuntar and Manikaran but this small and tiny village located on the banks of the Parvati river now has been converted into one of the most famous hill stations in the entire country. The landscape around the town is breathtakingly beautiful and it is a heaven for photographers and nature lovers. Tourists come here even from a abroad, drawn in by the stunning beauty of the place. Situated about 37 kilometres from Kullu, this Hill town is has also been featured in many documentaries which depict the life of the people of Himachal.
Distance from Amritsar: 271 km
Best time to Visit: October to June
Khilanmarg happens to be one of the most beautiful places in all of Kashmir and is located at an height of 2000 metres. This region is a favourite among those who love to ski and during the winter months, throngs of skiing enthusiast descend upon the slopes. If you are looking for an offbeat destination to travel and want to venture outside the conventional spots of Srinagar in Kashmir then Khilanmarg is one of the places where you should be. Once here, show to see Kashmir in a whole new light.
Distance from Amritsar: 298 km
Best time to Visit: May to September
Gulmarg is located at an elevation of 2650 and happens to be another popular skiing destination in Jammu and Kashmir. It is located about 56 kilometres from the capital of Srinagar and during the winters the entire meadow is covered with snow. The cup shaped Valley has a number of parks and small lakes and almost the entire region is covered with thick coniferous forests which are a joy to explore. They are almost completely covered in snow during the winters which lends this region a complete winter Wonderland look. Do not forget to opt for the horse ride if you are in Gulmarg.
Distance from Amritsar: 299 km
Best time to Visit: December to February
This gorgeous hill station is located on the banks of the Lidder river, and also happens to be a popular religious site. There are some temples here which are quite ancient and many pilgrims happen to travel till Lake Sheshnag to offer their prayers. If you are here, then do not forget to visit the Betaab valley and the Chandhanwadi region, which is home to the local population. This region basically encapsulates the heart and soul of Kashmir filled with mountains, streams and Pine forests. You will also see shepherds grazing their cattle on the slopes and the laid back life of the people will also put your mind at ease.
Distance from Amritsar: 303 km
Best time to Visit: March to November
Manikaran is located in the Parvati Valley, 35 kilometres away from Kullu. It happens to be a major religious site for the Hindus as well as the Sikhs and there are a number of temples here which are dedicated to Lord Krishna, Vishnu and Ram along with a Gurudwara as well. Moreover, there are a number of hot springs in this region and it is believed that by taking a bath here all sins are washed away. It is also believed that the waters of the springs have healing properties and can cure almost all ailments.
Distance from Amritsar: 306 km
Best time to Visit: Throughout the year
These amazing hill stations near Amritsar will leave you mesmerized and asking for more and you will soon be making arrangements to visit them all over again.
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April 15, 2024 
