India’s hill stations have been a retreat for travelers seeking escape from the heat and chaos of city life. Many of these scenic destinations have deep-rooted histories, dating back to colonial times. If you love history, nature, and serenity, here are the 10 oldest hill stations in India to visit in 2025.
Established: 1819
Shimla, once the summer capital of British India, still retains its colonial charm. With Mall Road, Jakhoo Temple, and Christ Church, this hill station is a must-visit for its blend of history and nature.
✔️ Take a ride on the Kalka-Shimla Toy Train
✔️ Explore The Ridge and Scandal Point
✔️ Visit Viceregal Lodge
Established: 1835
Famous for its tea plantations and the Himalayan Railway, Darjeeling offers mesmerizing views of Kanchenjunga. Its rich colonial past and stunning sunrise views make it an iconic hill station.
✔️ Ride the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
✔️ Enjoy sunrise at Tiger Hill
✔️ Sip Darjeeling tea at a heritage tea estate
Established: 1821
Ooty, or Udhagamandalam, was developed by the British as a summer retreat. Famous for its Botanical Garden, Ooty Lake, and Nilgiri Mountain Railway, it remains a timeless destination.
✔️ Ride the toy train to Ooty
✔️ Visit the 19th-century St. Stephen’s Church
✔️ Trek through Nilgiri hills
Established: 1823
Nicknamed the "Queen of Hills," Mussoorie is famous for its colonial charm, cool climate, and stunning views of the Himalayas.
✔️ Walk along Camel’s Back Road
✔️ Explore Gun Hill and Company Garden
✔️ Visit Landour for heritage charm
Established: 1841
Nestled around Naini Lake, this picturesque town was a British summer retreat. It remains a favorite for boating, scenic walks, and cool mountain air.
✔️ Enjoy boating on Naini Lake
✔️ Visit Naina Devi Temple
✔️ Take the cable car to Snow View Point
Established: 1845
Known as the “Princess of Hill Stations,” Kodaikanal’s cool climate and mist-covered hills make it a perfect retreat.
✔️ Explore Kodai Lake and Coaker’s Walk
✔️ Visit Pillar Rocks and Bryant Park
✔️ Try homemade chocolates
Established: 1850
Matheran, the smallest hill station in India, is unique as vehicles are banned here, preserving its old-world charm.
✔️ Ride the Matheran Toy Train
✔️ Visit Charlotte Lake and Echo Point
✔️ Explore heritage bungalows
Established: 1857
The only hill station in Rajasthan, Mount Abu is famous for its Dilwara Jain Temples, Nakki Lake, and stunning sunset points.
✔️ Visit Dilwara Temples
✔️ Enjoy a boat ride in Nakki Lake
✔️ Trek to Guru Shikhar, the highest peak
Established: 1829
Famous for its strawberry farms and colonial architecture, Mahabaleshwar was a British summer capital.
✔️ Visit Arthur’s Seat and Elephant’s Head Point
✔️ Explore Pratapgarh Fort
✔️ Try fresh strawberries
Established: 1854
A quieter alternative to Ooty, Coonoor is famous for its tea plantations, toy train, and stunning viewpoints.
✔️ Visit Sim’s Park and Dolphin’s Nose
✔️ Explore tea estates
✔️ Ride the Nilgiri Mountain Railway
These 10 oldest hill stations in India have stood the test of time, offering a perfect mix of history, nature, and adventure. Whether you're looking for colonial architecture, breathtaking views, or peaceful retreats, these destinations should be on your 2025 travel bucket list.
Which hill station will you visit first? Let us know in the comments!
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