5 oldest hill stations in India that still charm travellers in 2025

Indian hill stations are more than just a railway station; they hold the memory of the colonial period, and they also hold the charm of natural beauty and rich history. Let's explore India’s oldest hill stations.

By Aritra Chatterjee

Sep 26, 2025 15:15 IST

The oldest hill stations in India are archives of colonial history, aromatic tea mornings, and mountain magic, and they are more than just places to visit in the summer. From the toy train in Shimla to the misty tea estates in Darjeeling, these classic destinations continue to fascinate tourists with their rich history, refreshing atmosphere, and stunning scenery.

Shimla (Himachal Pradesh)

The hill station of Shimla was established in the early 19th century, and later, in 1864, it became the British Summer Capital. It also holds the UNESCO tag. Its colonial architecture still holds its charismatic view, panoramic view of the Himalaya from Mall Road is one of the most wonderful things.

Darjeeling(West Bengal)

Other than its natural beauty, Darjeeling is one of the beautiful hill stations. From the sunrise to the dazzling Himalayan toy train, Darjeeling has everything. This beautiful hill station was established in 1835.

Ooty(Tamil Nadu)

In the 1820s, the British made a beautiful hill station, which has the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, sprawling Botanical Gardens, tea plantations, and a serene lake.

Mussorie(Uttarakhand)

Captain Young established Mussoorie in 1825, and since then, it has been a haven for poets, writers, and wanderers. The Mall Road, Camel’s Back Road, and views of the Doon Valley offer a charming colonial-era ambience.

Mount Abu (Rajasthan)

Mount Abu, Rajasthan's only hill station, has served as a refuge since the 11th century and was later expanded by the British. It is well-known for its magnificent Dilwara Temples, Nakki Lake, and Guru Shikhar, offering a distinct blend of history and refreshing mountain air.

If anybody wants a peaceful summer vacation, they can go to these places for sure. The dreamy, foggy weather will surely bring happiness to anyone.

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