Explore the top 6 best hill stations near Amritsar – Chilling Experience

Overview:

There are plenty of  places to visit in Amritsar and they offer different experiences whenever we visit. Amritsar is the cultural hub of Punjab, it is located in the heart of Punjab and offers visitors many things to do in Amritsar. If you are someone looking for the Hill stations near Amritsar and want to know about the ideal time and top attractions to explore, then join us on this journey to explore the hill stations near Amritsar, so that you can plan a proper itinerary for your next India trip.

1. Dharamshala: The Little Lhasa

Dharamshala is around 200 km from Amritsar and is situated in the Kangra Valley. This place is known for its natural beauty and spirituality. It was an exile for the Dalai Lama, finally being counted among the best hill stations near Amritsar.

Dharamshala is distinctly divided into upper and lower regions. The upper region is known as McLeod Ganj: It’s called the ‘Little Lhasa’ to present a large Tibetan cultural indulgence and the lower region is known as Dharamshala town. There is Bhagsu Waterfall: Good for nature walks and picnics. There are some world-famous monasteries so visit them whether you are a follower of Buddhism or a fellow traveller, Dharamshala is one of the best Hill stations near Amritsar.

• Distance from Amritsar: 201 km via NH 54 and NH 154

Suggested to read: Airbnbs in Amritsar

2. Dalhousie: Colonial Charm

Around 196 kilometers from Amritsar lies Dalhousie, a hill station that retains its colonial charm. Established by the British, Dalhousie is famous for its picturesque landscapes and historical architecture. Owing to serenity and pictorial beauty, Dalhousie is an ideal destination for a person in quest of a quiet and picturesque retreat. Green meadows and towering trees reverberate with etiquette for peace and joy. A feeling of being a piece of heaven, Dalhousie offers something to everybody visiting this tiny hill station, be it families, honeymooners, or even foreigners.

One of the places to be visited in Dalhousie is Khajjiar, which has been christened as the “Mini Switzerland” for its scenic beauty with tall forests, huge meadows, and beautiful temples dotting it. Available here in Khajjiar for adventure lovers are facilities for paragliding, zorbing, and trekking.

One more famous spot is Satdhara Falls, known for its curative waters and its picturesque beauty. These falls are apt for hiking or enjoying views from the top. Panchpula is good for a day picnic, with its beautiful waterfalls, spots for picnics, and walking trails. Any animal lover should definitely pay a visit to Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary. It harbors a large population of leopards, martens, bears, and jackals that grace the sanctuary, providing thrilling wildlife viewings in their natural habitat. Dalhousie is one of the best hill stations near Amritsar which is worth visiting with our Amritsar to Dalhousie tour packages. 

• Distance from Amritsar: 4 hr 30 min (196.3 km) via NH 54 and NH 154A

3. Kasauli: Tranquil Escape

Kasauli is located at a short distance from Amritsar. For anyone seeking a quiet getaway, this is the place. Has some colonial buildings mixed with narrow lanes and orchards. The key attraction in Kasauli is Monkey Point which provides a panoramic view, Gilbert Trail is good for nature walks and watching birds, and Kasauli Brewery is One of the oldest distilleries in Asia. Exploring these places will provide a tranquil experience from the hustle and bustle of city life. Kasauli is also one of the best hill stations near Amritsar.

• Distance from Amritsar: 5 hr 33 min (267.1 km) via NH 3

4. Manali: Adventure’s Mecca

Manali is a popular hill station, based at 400 kilometers more or less from Amritsar, filled with mountain sports activities and live culture scenes. Manali is a high-altitude Himalayan resort town in Himachal Pradesh and is considered to be the finest hill station near Amritsar.

Manali is covered by beautiful valleys, dense forests, and the River Beas. Waterfalls like Jogni Falls and Rahala Falls dot the town with lush meadows, having verdant terraced farms. Its ancient temples like Hadimba, Manu, Shiv, and forts like Naggar and Kuthar evoke rich history. For the adventure addicts, there are adventure sports such as paragliding, camping, trekking, rafting, etc. Some famous and highly visited regions in Manali are the Solang Valley, which soothes the thirst of most adventure addicts and nature enthusiasts, and Rohtang Pass.

Manali offers experiences of every kind adventure, romance, serenity, or any other. Check our best Himachal Pradesh tour packages for a comfortable journey.

• Distance: 393.3 km via NH503 and NH 3

 Suggested to read: Homestays in Manali 

5. Palampur: A Paradise of Tea Gardens and Serenity

Located 230 km from Amritsar, Palampur serves as a perfect hill station near Amritsar adorned with its green tea plantations. Being at the foothills of the Dhauladhar range in Himachal Pradesh, Palampur is a utopian paradise for lovers of nature and those who are bored of the noisy city centers. Famous for its picturesque locations like Tea Gardens which is surrounded by acres of full green can be seen in the Palampur tea estates. Someone can take a tour of the estates and see the whole process of the tea laid out while catching glimpses of the mountain scenery around.

Another place is Tashi Jong Monastery, a Tibetan  Buddhist monastery in the environs outside Palampur, which gives an insight into the Tibetan way of life and their spirituality. Snow-covered Dhauladhar forms the backdrop and Tashi Jong, is also well known for its peaceful ambiance and traditional architectural style. Baijnath temple is a  Historic temple from the 13th century and dedicated to Lord Shiva. It has beautiful stone carvings with ancient architecture is what attracts devotees and history lovers to this place and it is one of the finest hill stations near Amritsar that one should visit. 

• Distance: 226.6 km via NH 54 and NH154

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6. Chamba: Scenic Beauty In The Lap Of Nature

Chamba is a beautiful hill station, about 230 km from Amritsar, located on the bank of the Ravi River. With a rich culture and stunning sites, Chamba is quite historical with the surrounding landscape. One of the Key attractions is Chamera Lake a beautiful reservoir with a boating and picnicking facility. Chamba has to its credit lush greenery and serenity. Stretching among lush green hills, the place is one of the most popular spots due to the tranquil atmosphere and engaging water sports activities.

Bhuri Singh Museum is located in Chamba town, through its ancient artifacts, sculpture, and paintings in the traditional style, can reveal to a great extent the art and cultural heritage of the region. It gives an insight into the past history, folklore, and artistic traditions.

Laxmi Narayan Temple is known for its Immortal complex, this architectural wonder is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. This place is an infinite combination of wooden carvings, colorful murals, and religious spirit, which is considered a must-visit for any spiritual person or lover of architecture.

• Distance: 230 via NH 54 and NH 154A

Conclusion

The hill stations near Amritsar offer the best bang for the buck in adventure, culture, and, of course, relaxation. Their spiritual ambiance in Dharamshala, the colonial charm found at Dalhousie, and the spirit of adventure in Manali make them greatly serene places. Hill stations are a perfect respite by which to cool off from the wheels of urban life. Plan out your trip, pack your bags, and get ready to enter into the ‘New You’ at these peaceful destinations.