A complete guide to quick, refreshing escapes Hill Stations from the City Beautiful Discover scenic getaways, cool weather, and peaceful vibes close to the city
Chandigarh — the clean, modern, and green capital of Punjab and Haryana — is more than just a well-planned urban centre. For many travellers and locals alike, it’s also the perfect launching point for hill Stations escapes, with the Shivalik foothills just an hour away and the majestic Himachal Himalayas within easy reach.
Whether you’re planning a weekend break, a summer retreat, or a last-minute getaway, there’s no shortage of stunning hill stations to choose from — each offering its own charm, climate, and character.
In this guide, we’ve curated the top 10 hill stations near Chandigarh, perfect for families, couples, adventure lovers, and solo travellers. We’ve also added helpful links for deeper planning, weather insights, and handpicked travel packages to make your journey seamless.
1. Shimla – The Timeless Queen of Hills
- Distance from Chandigarh: 115 km
- Travel time: ~3.5 hours
- Best for: Colonial charm, mall strolls, snowy winters
Shimla needs no introduction. A former British summer capital, it still charms visitors with its heritage architecture, bustling markets, ridge walks, and pine-scented air. Whether you’re travelling in snowy winter or flower-sprinkled spring, Shimla rarely disappoints.
- Walk down the Mall Road and shop at Lakkar Bazaar
- Visit the Viceregal Lodge and Jakhoo Temple
- Enjoy stunning views from Scandal Point and The Ridge
For an easy, stress-free itinerary, explore this 2 Nights / 3 Days Shimla Tour Package.
Want snow? Here’s the best time to visit Shimla for snowfall.
2. Kufri – Shimla’s Snowy Neighbour
- Distance from Chandigarh: 130 km
- Travel time: ~4 hours
- Best for: Snow play, horse rides, panoramic views
Just 16 km from Shimla, Kufri is a popular add-on or standalone destination for those seeking snowy fun and Himalayan views. It’s a top pick for families and honeymooners looking to escape the crowds of Shimla. Kufri Weather in May Travel Tips
- Visit the Himalayan Nature Park
- Ride ponies to Mahasu Peak
- Try your hand at tobogganing or skiing in winter
Planning a May visit? Check out the Kufri Weather in May Guide.
Also explore more on Kufri tourism here.
3. Kasauli – Colonial Calm and Forest Walks
- Distance from Chandigarh: 60 km
- Travel time: ~2 hours
- Best for: Weekend breaks, nature trails, quiet stays
Nestled in the Shivalik range, Kasauli is perhaps the most accessible hill stations from Chandigarh, yet it retains a low-key, peaceful vibe. Think cobbled lanes, British-era churches, pine forests, and glowing sunsets.
- Visit Gilbert Trail for birdwatching and forest serenity
- Catch sunset from Monkey Point
- Explore the Christ Church, built in 1853
Ideal for couples, retirees, and those seeking a slower rhythm. Best visited in spring or autumn for clear skies.
4. Chail – The Quieter Cousin of Shimla
- Distance from Chandigarh: 105 km
- Travel time: ~3.5–4 hours
- Best for: Forest stays, wildlife, offbeat travellers
Once the summer capital of the Patiala kings, Chail is a beautiful alternative to Shimla with fewer crowds, thick deodar forests, and cool serenity.
- Explore the Chail Palace and its lush estate
- Visit the world’s highest cricket ground
- Trek through the Chail Wildlife Sanctuary
Great for nature lovers, birders, and those seeking peaceful mountain resorts.
5. Barog – A Hidden Gem in the Hills
- Distance from Chandigarh: 60 km
- Travel time: 1.5–2 hours
- Best for: Short stays, rail lovers, budget travellers
Located along the iconic Kalka–Shimla toy train route, Barog is a quaint station town surrounded by forests and gentle hills. It’s perfect for a relaxed getaway that’s still scenic and soulful.
- Hike the pine trails or relax in charming colonial guesthouses
- Stay at the Barog Railway Station Rest House, a favourite among photographers
- A great spot for slow travel and creative retreats
6. Nahan – Hill Charm with Temple Trails
- Distance from Chandigarh: 85 km
- Travel time: ~2.5 hours
- Best for: Temple tourism, historic forts, monsoon retreats
Perched on a ridge above the Markanda River, Nahan combines hill stations vibes with cultural and religious exploration.
- Visit the Rani Tal for boating and sunsets
- Explore Jaitak Fort and Simbalwara Wildlife Sanctuary
- Stop at Renuka Lake, one of the largest natural lakes in Himachal
Nahan is great for year-round travel, especially during monsoons when the region turns lush green.
7. Solan – Mushroom Capital Meets Scenic Stopover
- Distance from Chandigarh: 68 km
- Travel time: ~2.5 hours
- Best for: Road trippers, foodies, monastery visits
Solan, known as the ‘Mushroom City of India’, often gets overlooked by tourists in a hurry to reach Shimla. But it’s a charming town in its own right, surrounded by orchards, monasteries, and soft green hills. How to Reach Solan, Himachal Pradesh from Delhi
- Visit the Mohan Shakti Heritage Park and Yungdrung Tibetan Monastery
- Enjoy Solan’s unique street food scene
- Great for quick stopovers or overnight stays
8. Dalhousie – Colonial Grandeur with Alpine Beauty
- Distance from Chandigarh: ~315 km
- Travel time: 7–8 hours
- Best for: Long weekends, scenic treks, snow in winter
Though further than most on this list, Dalhousie is well worth the drive. This vintage town offers colonial cottages, pine-clad hills, and sprawling valley views. Must Visit Trip to Dalhousie in April 2025
- Visit Panchpula waterfalls and Khajjiar (the “Mini Switzerland of India”)
- Explore St. John’s Church and Subhash Baoli
- Try short treks to Ganji Pahari or Dainkund Peak
Great for long weekends or when combining with Dharamshala.
9. Manali – The Evergreen Adventure Escape
- Distance from Chandigarh: 300 km
- Travel time: 8–9 hours
- Best for: Adventure sports, honeymooners, river and snow lovers
Yes, it’s a bit of a drive — but Manali remains a top escape from Chandigarh, especially during summers and early winters. The drive is scenic, the vibes are young, and the range of activities — from paragliding and rafting to café hopping and spa breaks — is unmatched. How Many Days Are Sufficient for a Perfect Manali Trip?
- Visit Solang Valley, Old Manali, and Hadimba Temple
- Ride to Rohtang Pass or Atal Tunnel
- Chill by the Beas River or hike into Hamta Valley
Manali is also part of many North India summer itineraries — check out this best places to visit in North India in May guide for more ideas.
10. Tirthan Valley – Himachal’s Best-Kept Secret
- Distance from Chandigarh: ~250 km
- Travel time: 7–8 hours
- Best for: Trout fishing, eco-lodges, forest treks
If you’re willing to go a little off the beaten track, Tirthan Valley offers peace, pine forests, and pristine rivers — without the crowds. It borders the Great Himalayan National Park, a UNESCO site known for biodiversity and wild Himalayan treks. Read aslo: Best Things to Do in Tirthan Valley
- Stay in riverside wooden lodges
- Go trout fishing, birdwatching, or short treks
- Visit Gushaini, Jibhi, and Jalori Pass
Perfect for a long weekend with a soulful twist.
Final Thoughts: Hills Within Reach, Every Weekend
Chandigarh’s location is a traveller’s privilege — giving you access to mountains within just a couple of hours, and snow-capped peaks by day’s drive. Whether you’re planning a quick romantic escape, a summer family trip, or a quiet solo retreat, there’s a hill stations waiting just around the bend.
Start with the classics like Shimla and Kasauli, or venture off into Barog, Nahan, or Tirthan Valley. Either way, the journey from the plains to the pines will be part of the adventure.
Need help planning your next weekend getaway from Chandigarh? Let our local experts at Ease India Trip help you create a travel plan that’s seamless, scenic, and unforgettable.
Also read:
- Best places to visit in North India in May
- Kufri Travel Guide
- Best Time to Visit Shimla for Snowfall
- Shimla Tour Package
- How to Reach Kasol from Delhi
Let the hills whisper — and you’ll know where to go next.
