When you are thinking of a quick escape to the mountains choosing hill stations in India near airports makes sense. Hill stations offer a combination of cooler temperatures, lush greenery, nature and adventure activities and breathtaking sunsets. These factors make hill stations a perfect getaway for summer holidays, a family union or a romantic getaway.
If you search the internet, you’ll find many posts about hill stations with airports. However, the reality is that no hill station has its airport due to its geography and terrain – common sense, right?
The best option is to choose a hill station with an airport nearby, ensuring a smoother and more convenient journey.
While many scenic hill stations require long road journeys, some are well-connected to major airports, reducing travel time and hassle. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a short vacation, these destinations offer the perfect mix of convenience and breathtaking landscapes.
In this guide, we list the best hill stations with smooth airport connectivity, helping you plan your next trip with ease. While some airports are within 50 km of these hill stations, a few bonus mentions are slightly farther but still easily accessible.
13 Best Hill Stations in India Near Airports for an Easy Getaway
Hill Stations in North India Near Airports
1. Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh
Nearest Airport: Kangra Airport (Gaggal) (13 km)
Why Visit?
Dharamshala, the winter capital of Himachal Pradesh, is known for its breathtaking Dhauladhar mountain views, Tibetan culture, and peaceful monasteries. It’s a perfect retreat for nature lovers, spiritual seekers, and adventure enthusiasts, offering a mix of serenity and outdoor activities.
If you are looking for a quick escape into the mountains to unwind this is one of the best hill stations near airport with a short travel time.
Top Attractions:
- McLeod Ganj – The Tibetan hub with monasteries, cafes, and scenic viewpoints.
- Dal Lake – A peaceful lake surrounded by deodar trees.
- Bhagsu Waterfall – A scenic waterfall, great for a short trek.
- Triund Trek – One of the most famous treks in Himachal, offering stunning Himalayan views.
- HPCA Cricket Stadium – One of the most beautiful cricket stadiums in the world.
Best Time to Visit:
March to June (pleasant summer), September to November (post-monsoon greenery).
How to Reach?
Kangra Airport (Gaggal) is just 13 km from Dharamshala, with direct flights from Delhi and Chandigarh. From the airport, taxis and buses are easily available to reach the town.
2. Dehradun, Uttarakhand
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport (30 km)
Why Visit?
Dehradun, the gateway to Uttarakhand, is a charming hill town known for its lush greenery, colonial charm, and proximity to Mussoorie. It offers a blend of nature, history, and spirituality, making it perfect for families, solo travellers, and weekend getaways.
As you browse through the list of hill stations with airports nearby, Dehradun is a popular choice because of its versatility. This is a perfect stop for those who prefer a hill station with plenty of facilities and amenities.
Top Attractions:
- Robber’s Cave – A natural river cave perfect for wading through cool waters.
- Sahastradhara – A scenic spot with natural sulphur springs and waterfalls.
- Mindrolling Monastery – A grand Tibetan monastery with stunning architecture.
- Forest Research Institute – A heritage landmark with British-era architecture.
- Tapkeshwar Temple – A famous Lord Shiva temple inside a cave.
Best Time to Visit:
March to June (pleasant summer), September to November (post-monsoon freshness).
How to Reach?
Jolly Grant Airport is well-connected with direct flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and other major cities. From the airport, taxis and buses are available to reach Dehradun city within an hour.
3. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport (60 km)
Why Visit?
One of the popular North Indian hill stations in India near airports is Mussoorie. Known as the “Queen of Hills,” Mussoorie is one of India’s most famous hill stations, offering spectacular Himalayan views, colonial-era charm, and a refreshing climate. It’s a perfect escape for honeymooners, families, and adventure seekers, with plenty of attractions and scenic spots.
You can easily pair Mussoorie and Dehradun in a single trip, as they are just an hour apart, offering a mix of hill station charm and city attractions. This makes them a perfect combined getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Top Attractions:
- Kempty Falls – A stunning waterfall and a popular picnic spot.
- Gun Hill – A cable car ride leading to panoramic Himalayan views.
- Lal Tibba – The highest point in Mussoorie, offering breathtaking vistas.
- Mall Road – A lively shopping and dining street.
- Camel’s Back Road – A peaceful walk with stunning mountain views.
Best Time to Visit:
March to June (pleasant summer), September to November (clear post-monsoon weather).
How to Reach?
Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the nearest airport, with direct flights from Delhi, Mumbai, and other major cities. From the airport, taxis and buses take around 2 hours to reach Mussoorie.
4. Kasauli, Himachal Pradesh
Nearest Airport: Chandigarh Airport (55 km)
Why Visit?
A quaint colonial-era hill station, Kasauli is known for its serene atmosphere, pine forests, and breathtaking Himalayan views. It’s an ideal destination for travellers seeking peace, nature walks, and a slow-paced getaway.
This works perfectly for couples and solo travellers wanting to escape the urban chaos and the summer heat. Kasauli can provide you with a much-needed break during the summers that can make a difference.
Top Attractions:
- Monkey Point – The highest point in Kasauli, offering panoramic views.
- Sunset Point & Gilbert Trail – Scenic spots for nature walks and photography.
- Christ Church – A 19th-century church with stunning Gothic architecture.
- Mall Road – A small but charming street for shopping and local eateries.
- Timber Trail – A ropeway ride offering mesmerizing valley views.
Best Time to Visit:
March to June (pleasant weather), September to November (post-monsoon greenery).
How to Reach?
Chandigarh Airport is the nearest airport with smooth domestic connectivity to Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and other cities. From there, taxis and buses take around 1.5 to 2 hours to reach Kasauli.
5. Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir
Nearest Airport: Srinagar Airport (50 km)
Why Visit?
Gulmarg, known as the “Meadow of Flowers,” is a year-round paradise, famous for its lush green meadows, winter skiing, and the world’s second-highest cable car ride. Whether you’re looking for snow adventures or scenic beauty, Gulmarg delivers an unforgettable experience.
If you are looking for the best places to visit in May in India, Gulmarg is one of them offering a perfect escape from the summer heat. With not much snow around you can move around freely and also head for some motorcycle tours in the valley.
Top Attractions:
- Gulmarg Gondola – One of the highest cable cars in the world, offering stunning Himalayan views.
- Apharwat Peak – A dream spot for skiing and snowboarding in winter.
- Alpather Lake – A breathtaking alpine lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
- St. Mary’s Church – A 19th-century church set in a picturesque location.
- Gulmarg Golf Course – One of the world’s highest golf courses.
Best Time to Visit:
December to February (for snow & skiing)
March to June (for lush green landscapes and outdoor activities)
How to Reach?
Srinagar Airport offers direct flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and other major cities. From the airport, taxis and shared cabs take about 1.5 to 2 hours to reach Gulmarg.
Hill Stations in East India Near Airports
6. Darjeeling, West Bengal
Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport (70 km)
Why Visit?
Darjeeling, the “Queen of the Hills,” is famous for its tea gardens, colonial charm, and breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga. Whether you’re a tea lover, a nature enthusiast, or a heritage traveller, Darjeeling offers a blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty.
It is among the best honeymoon places in India offering honeymooners with the right lush greenery, pleasant climate and scenic landscapes. If you are a tea enthusiast you can look out for various tours of tea estates and how tea is made.
Top Attractions:
- Tiger Hill – Famous for its spectacular sunrise views over Kanchenjunga.
- Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train) – A UNESCO World Heritage site offering a nostalgic train ride through the hills.
- Batasia Loop & War Memorial – A spiral railway loop with stunning panoramic views.
- Happy Valley Tea Estate – Experience tea tasting and plantation tours.
- Japanese Peace Pagoda – A serene spot offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
Best Time to Visit:
March to May (pleasant spring weather)
October to December (clear views & festive atmosphere)
How to Reach?
Bagdogra Airport offers direct flights from Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. From the airport, taxis and shared cabs take around 3 hours to reach Darjeeling via scenic hill roads.
Hill Stations in West India Near Airports
Nearest Airport: Pune Airport (65 km)
Why Visit?
Lonavala is a popular hill station in Maharashtra, known for its lush green valleys, historic caves, and monsoon magic. It’s a perfect weekend getaway for nature lovers, trekkers, and adventure seekers, offering waterfalls, forts, and serene lakes.
While Lonavala can be quite hot during the summer months, especially during afternoon hours you can enjoy cool mornings and evening time. This would allow you to make the most of the holidays you spend in Lonavala.
Top Attractions:
- Tiger Point Lonavala – A scenic cliff offering a breathtaking valley view.
- Bhushi Dam – A famous spot for monsoon lovers and nature enthusiasts.
- Karla & Bhaja Caves – Ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves with stunning carvings.
- Rajmachi Fort – A historic fort offering a panoramic trek experience.
- Pawna Lake – Ideal for camping and stargazing by the lakeside.
Best Time to Visit:
July to September (monsoon greenery & waterfalls)
October to March (pleasant winter getaway)
How to Reach?
Pune Airport has good domestic connectivity with flights from Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and more. From Pune, Lonavala is less than a 90-minute drive via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway.
Hill Stations in South India Near Airports
8. Coorg, Karnataka
Nearest Airport: Kannur International Airport (90 km)
Why Visit?
Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is Karnataka’s most loved hill station. Blanketed in coffee plantations, spice gardens, and dense forests, it offers a refreshing mix of nature, culture, and tranquillity. It’s ideal for couples, families, and anyone looking to unwind in misty hills.
The weather stays pleasant throughout the year. Mornings are misty, afternoons are mild, and evenings are cool – great for slow travel and outdoor fun.
Top Attractions:
- Abbey Falls – A scenic waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.
- Dubare Elephant Camp – Interact with elephants by the river in a forest setting.
- Raja’s Seat – A historic garden with stunning sunset views.
- Namdroling Monastery – A peaceful Tibetan monastery with golden statues and prayer halls.
- Coffee Plantations – Guided tours with tastings and stories from local growers.
Best Time to Visit:
October to March (cool and perfect for sightseeing)
June to September (lush and green during the monsoon)
How to Reach?
Kannur and Mangalore airports have flights from major Indian cities like Bangalore, Chennai, and Mumbai. From either airport, Coorg is a 3–4 hour drive through scenic routes and forest stretches.
9. Agumbe, Karnataka
Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport (100 km)
Why Visit?
Agumbe is a hidden gem in the Western Ghats, often called the “Cherrapunji of South India” for its heavy rainfall. It’s a paradise for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone drawn to thick rainforests and misty landscapes. Agumbe is also home to rare flora, King Cobras, and magical sunsets.
Mornings are misty, afternoons are humid but lush, and evenings are perfect for peaceful walks through the forested village.
Top Attractions:
- Sunset Point – A breathtaking viewpoint overlooking the Arabian Sea.
- Barkana Falls – One of India’s tallest waterfalls hidden in dense jungle.
- Kunchikal Falls – A powerful, seasonal waterfall great for monsoon visits.
- Agumbe Rainforest Research Station – A unique spot for herpetology lovers.
- Gopalakrishna Temple – A 14th-century temple with traditional architecture.
Best Time to Visit:
October to May (cooler, drier climate and great for treks)
June to September (lush and dramatic during the monsoon)
How to Reach?
Fly into Mangalore, which has regular flights from Bangalore, Mumbai, and Chennai. Agumbe is about a 3-hour drive from Mangalore through winding ghat roads and dense greenery.
10. Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Nearest Airport: Coimbatore International Airport (88 km)
Why Visit?
Ooty, also called the “Queen of Hill Stations,” is a serene escape in the Nilgiri Hills. Surrounded by eucalyptus forests, tea estates, and rolling meadows, it’s a favourite for honeymooners, families, and solo travellers alike. The cool climate, British-era charm, and scenic train rides add to its timeless appeal.
Mornings and evenings stay crisp year-round, while afternoons are mild. It’s perfect for exploring without breaking a sweat.
Top Attractions:
- Ooty Lake – Boating, cycling, and scenic views around a calm, manmade lake.
- Nilgiri Mountain Railway – A UNESCO-listed toy train ride through tunnels and valleys.
- Botanical Gardens – Spread across 55 acres with exotic plants and rare trees.
- Doddabetta Peak – The highest point in the Nilgiris, offering stunning panoramic views.
- Tea Factory and Museum – A great stop to learn about tea processing and enjoy fresh brews.
Best Time to Visit:
October to June (ideal weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities)
April to June (summer escape with blooming gardens)
How to Reach?
Fly into Coimbatore, which connects well to major cities like Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Mumbai. From Coimbatore, Ooty is a 3-hour drive via NH181 or you can enjoy the scenic toy train ride from Mettupalayam.
11. Coonoor, Tamil Nadu
Nearest Airport: Coimbatore International Airport (70 km)
Why Visit?
Coonoor is a quieter, greener alternative to Ooty, perfect for travellers who want serenity without the crowds. With sprawling tea estates, misty valleys, and old-world charm, it’s ideal for couples, writers, and slow travellers looking to unwind in nature.
Cool mornings, pleasant afternoons, and breezy evenings make Coonoor great for outdoor walks and scenic drives.
Top Attractions:
- Sim’s Park – A well-maintained botanical garden with rare plant species.
- Dolphin’s Nose – A dramatic cliff viewpoint overlooking Catherine Falls.
- Lamb’s Rock – A perfect picnic and photo spot amidst tea plantations.
- Heritage Train Ride – A scenic ride to Ooty on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway.
- Highfield Tea Factory – A guided tour into tea-making with fresh tastings.
Best Time to Visit:
October to May (ideal for sightseeing and nature walks)
March to May (best for escaping summer heat)
How to Reach?
Coimbatore Airport has flights from Bangalore, Chennai, Mumbai, and Hyderabad. From Coimbatore, Coonoor is a 2.5-hour drive or a scenic toy train ride via Mettupalayam.
12. Wayanad, Kerala
Nearest Airport: Calicut International Airport (100 km)
Why Visit?
Wayanad blends lush forests, spice plantations, waterfalls, and wildlife in one stunning package. It’s a perfect hill retreat for couples, families, and adventure seekers alike. The region is peaceful, scenic, and rich in tribal culture and biodiversity.
The climate stays cool and fresh. Mornings are misty, afternoons are ideal for exploring, and nights are calm and quiet.
Top Attractions:
- Banasura Sagar Dam – India’s largest earthen dam with boating and scenic views.
- Edakkal Caves – Prehistoric rock carvings tucked deep in the hills.
- Meenmutty & Soochipara Falls – Gorgeous multi-tiered waterfalls perfect during monsoons.
- Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary – Home to elephants, deer, and exotic birds.
- Chembra Peak – A popular trek with a heart-shaped lake on the way up.
Best Time to Visit:
October to May (cool and dry—great for treks and sightseeing)
June to September (lush and misty, ideal for nature lovers)
How to Reach?
Calicut (Kozhikode) Airport has direct flights from major cities like Bangalore, Chennai, and Mumbai. From the airport, Wayanad is a 3-hour scenic drive through ghat roads and dense forests.
13. Ponmudi, Kerala
Nearest Airport: Trivandrum International Airport (55 km)
Why Visit?
Ponmudi is a peaceful hill station tucked in the Western Ghats, close to Kerala’s capital. With winding roads, misty hills, and golden grasslands, it’s perfect for weekend getaways, treks, and slow escapes. This is an ideal destination for couples and nature lovers who prefer calm over crowds.
Cool breeze all day, misty mornings, and soft sunlight make it a year-round favourite, especially for those who enjoy quiet mountain air.
Top Attractions:
- Golden Valley – A scenic riverside spot surrounded by lush greenery.
- Agasthyakoodam – A revered trekking spot and the highest peak in southern Kerala.
- Meenmutty Falls – A lovely waterfall located on a forested trail.
- Tea Gardens – Small, serene estates great for peaceful walks and photos.
- Ponmudi View Point – A stunning lookout offering panoramic views of mist-covered hills.
Best Time to Visit:
November to March (cool and perfect for hikes and drives)
June to September (lush, foggy, and great for monsoon magic)
How to Reach?
Fly into Trivandrum, well connected to major cities like Bangalore, Chennai, and Mumbai. From the airport, Ponmudi is just a 2-hour drive along scenic hairpin bends and forest routes.
Bonus Picks (A Little More Than 100 Km)
14. Munnar, Kerala
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (110 km)
Why Visit?
Munnar is one of South India’s most iconic hill stations, famous for its endless tea plantations, rolling hills, and misty mornings. It’s a dream escape for honeymooners, photographers, and nature lovers alike. Though a bit farther from the airport, the scenic drive makes it totally worth the effort.
Cool throughout the day, Munnar offers mist-covered mornings, golden afternoons, and starry, chilly nights.
Top Attractions:
- Eravikulam National Park – Home to the rare Nilgiri Tahr and stunning valley views.
- Tea Museum – A walk through Munnar’s tea-growing legacy.
- Mattupetty Dam – Boating with a view, surrounded by hills and greenery.
- Top Station – A panoramic viewpoint on the Tamil Nadu-Kerala border.
- Attukad Waterfalls – A postcard-perfect spot during the monsoons.
Best Time to Visit:
October to March (clear skies and great for sightseeing)
June to September (lush and green post-monsoon charm)
How to Reach?
Cochin Airport has excellent connectivity with major Indian cities. From the airport, Munnar is a 3.5 to 4-hour scenic drive through forested hills and plantation roads.
15. Lambasingi, Andhra Pradesh
Nearest Airport: Visakhapatnam International Airport (107 km)
Why Visit?
Lambasingi is one of South India’s most unique hill stations—often nicknamed the “Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh.” It’s the only place in the state that can dip near freezing in winter. Surrounded by misty hills, coffee estates, and quiet villages, it’s perfect for offbeat explorers and couples seeking peaceful vibes.
Expect chilly mornings, crisp afternoons, and fog-draped evenings—especially from November to February.
Top Attractions:
- Kothapalli Waterfalls – A beautiful cascade hidden in thick greenery.
- Thajangi Reservoir – A peaceful lake with picture-perfect surroundings.
- Lambasingi View Point – Wide valley views wrapped in early-morning mist.
- Coffee & Pepper Plantations – Great for quiet walks and local flavour.
- Ghat Road Drives – Scenic hairpin bends ideal for road trippers.
Best Time to Visit:
November to February (coolest months, ideal for foggy hill views)
June to September (lush landscapes during the monsoon)
How to Reach?
Visakhapatnam Airport is well-connected to cities like Hyderabad, Chennai, and Bangalore. From the airport, Lambasingi is about a 3-hour drive through the scenic Eastern Ghats.
What About Northeast India’s Hill Stations?
Northeast India is home to breathtaking hill stations like Shillong, Aizawl, and Gangtok, but unfortunately, their nearest airports have limited connectivity or unreliable flight schedules. Shillong Airport and Lengpui Airport mostly operate through Kolkata, while Pakyong Airport (Gangtok) faces frequent cancellations.
The best alternative for travellers heading to Northeast India is Bagdogra Airport, which is well-connected and serves as a gateway to destinations in Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, and beyond.
Hill Stations in India with Airports Nearby
Hill stations are the perfect antidote to city chaos—cool air, lush views, and a slower pace of life. But not everyone wants to spend hours on winding roads to reach them. That’s why we created this list of stunning hill stations across India that are just a short drive from the nearest airport.
Whether you’re heading to the Western Ghats, the Himalayas, or the Eastern hills, each destination here combines easy access with unforgettable scenery.
From well-known gems to lesser-explored getaways (yes, we used Google Maps to find a few!), these hill stations are ideal for quick holidays, last-minute plans, or relaxed long weekends.
So, pack your bags and catch that flight to some of the amazing hill stations in India near airports.