The Pink City of Jaipur is a destination in itself. Be it the majestic Amer Fort, the enchanting City Palace or the unique Jal Mahal, the city has these and a lot more that needs at least two days to explore. Add to this the colorful Rajasthani Thali served at Chokhi Dhani and the cultural fiesta that takes place here every day and you are in for one of the best evenings of your life.
While this is something everyone should experience; unfortunately summer here is not the best time. With the scorching heat taking over, people often look for hill stations near Jaipur to take some time off away from the city. If you are also planning a budget trip to a place where you can spend your weekends relaxing and unwinding, we have compiled the perfect list for you.
Take your pick, pack your bags, and go!
Hill Stations near Jaipur:
- Mount Abu
- Dhanaulti
- Kasauli
- Nainital
- Kufri
1. Mount Abu, The Only Hill Station in Rajasthan
Mount Abu | #1 of 5 Best Hill Stations near Jaipur
Located at an elevation of 1220 meters above the sea level, Mount Abu is a relief from the arid desert of Rajasthan. With the Aravallis forming the backdrop of this hill station and many a site to explore, the place has always been on top of the list of places to visit in Rajasthan.
Visit the beautiful Dilwara Jain Temple, take a trekking trip, explore the wildlife of the region or simply admire the sunrise and sunset views. You can also go for boating in Nakki Lake.
- Distance from Jaipur: 495 km (Approx. 8-hour drive)
2. Dhanaulti, Respite From Touristy Crowds
Dhanaulti | #2 of 5 Best Hill Stations near Jaipur
While Mussoorie has always been a popular summer getaway, there is another underrated gem just 30 km ahead. Perched at an elevation of 2286 meters above the sea level, Dhanaulti offers stunning vistas and panoramic views of the Himalayan range. With rhododendron, oak and pine forests enveloping the entire town, this hill station in Uttarakhand looks extremely picturesque and is perfect for escaping the scorching heat of cities during summers.
Apart from chilling at your resort or hotel, you can go for a picnic at Dhanaulti Eco Park. For the most serene nature walks, visit Kaudia Forest and if you want to see large expanses of potato-growing farms, stop by Aloo Khet.
- Distance from Jaipur: 590 km (Approx. 11 hours 30 minutes-drive)
3. Kasauli, A Hiker’s Paradise
Kasauli | #3 of 5 Best Hill Stations near Jaipur
Often undermined because of the myriad hill stations in Himachal Pradesh, Kasauli is a beautiful cantonment town in its own right. At an elevation of 1800 meters above the sea level, this hill station has a pleasant climate throughout the year and is thus a great option for your weekend getaway from Jaipur.
Since the town came into existence during the British Raj, you will find various buildings here in the colonial style of architecture. Soak in the splendor of these buildings or go to Gilbert Nature Trail for hiking. The town also has a brewery where you can stop by to sample distilled whiskey. Towards the end of the day, you can spend a quiet evening at Sunset Point.
- Distance from Jaipur: 550 km (Approx. 9 hours 40 minutes-drive)
4. Nainital, The City of Lakes and Stunning Vistas
Nainital | #4 of 5 Best Hill Stations near Jaipur
Probably one of the most visited hill stations in India, Nainital is the perfect place to chill at and escape the scorching heat of Jaipur in summers. Besides soaking in the enchanting views of the sunset and sunrise, there are plenty of things you can do here.
Start your day with a nature walk in the forest. Visit Naini Lake: go for boating, sit by the lake or simply explore the home-grown shops which line the lake. For buying woolen clothes and other knick-knacks, stop by the Bhotia Market. Do not leave the market without trying the delectable and spicy momos at ‘Sonam Momos Stall’. You will find plenty of stalls and shops by the same name, but the original one is inside the market.
- Distance from Jaipur: 610 km (Approx. 11 hours 30 minutes-drive)
Also Read: Places to Visit in Nainital
5. Kufri, A Town of Picturesque Snow-Clad Mountains
Kufri | #5 of 5 Best Hill Stations near Jaipur
Located at a distance of around 17 km from Shimla, Kufri is a picturesque hill station complete with snow-clad mountains, hiking and trekking trails and of course, beautiful picnic spots where you can spend some time with friends and family.
In winters, this place becomes a popular spot for both skiing and tobogganing – a fun adventure activity where you slide down the blanket of snow on a sledge. Kufri is also famous for its apple orchards. So, if you are planning a trip to this quaint hill station, don’t forget to try its apples.
- Distance from Jaipur: 620 km (Approx. 11 hours 40 minutes-drive)
While there are plenty of hill stations you can head to when you want a break from the Jaipur heat, these five are the best places to truly unwind. From long nature walks to serene evenings by the lake, there are plenty of things you can do at these picturesque hill stations.
If you have a couple of days in hand, you can always come back to the city and explore some of its popular places at night. Read our blog on Places to Visit in Jaipur at Night to know more. The city also has many amusement and water parks where you can cool off.
