“9.4%” of India’s GDP (Gross Domestic Product) for the year 2017 was generated by the powerful tourism industry. In other words, the inflow of tourists helped the country generate an annual revenue of Rs 15.25 lakh crore (US $230 Billion). The above mentioned statistics a clear indication that the country possesses a variety in terms of popular tourists destinations such as hill stations, beaches, or even pilgrimage sites. Now, with regards to hill stations there are many available throughout the country worth visiting. However, during the last year there were a few that were visited by tourists on a regular basis.And so, here is presenting an exclusive list of “Most Visited Indian Hill Stations” for 2017.
Read More: WHAT MAKES KUFRI SUCH A MESMERIZING INDIAN HILL STATION?
1. Dharamshala- Himachal Pradesh:
[put_wpgm id=117]
Dharamshala Map
Nominated in the list of the “Smart Cities Mission” project initiated by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is a picturesque hill station located in Himachal Pradesh known as Dharamshala also spelled as Dharamsala.
Elevated at an altitude ranging from 2352 meters to 1065 meters above sea level, it is situated in the Kangra district. Furthermore, it is known for its beautiful landscape which comprises of splendid evergreen Cedar and Deodar trees. Culturally speaking, this hill station is said to be “home” to the Dalai Lama and the Central Tibetan Administration. It is therefore its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and a pleasant climate which has attracted large tourists to Dharamsala, and makes it one of the “Most Visited Indian Hill Stations” for 2017.
2. Nainital- Uttarakhand:
[put_wpgm id=16]
Nainital Map
“Sarovar Nagari” meaning “lake city” is how a quaint hill station called Nainital in Uttarakhand is also commonly referred to as. Nestled high up at an altitude of 2084 meters above sea level, it is known for its extremely pleasant climatic conditions. Furthermore, this hill station is known for its picturesque landscape. It is also popular for a lake which is shaped in the form of a mango and surrounded by beautiful mountains. In addition, it is at times also known as the “Lake district in India”. Thus it is the temperate climate and a scenic landscape which makes Nainital one among a few “Most Visited Indian Hill Stations” in India for 2017.
3. Auli- Uttarakhand:
[put_wpgm id=24]
Auli Map
“A popular skiing destination” would be the best way to describe Auli, an absolute magnificent hill station situated in Uttarakahnd.
Located at an altitude of 3049 meters above sea level, it lies along the stretch which leads to the holy pilgrimage site called Badrinath. Furthermore, it is renowned for its picturesque landscape which is surrounded by beautiful coniferous and oak trees. In addition, it also provides for the magnificent views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. And so, it is a combination of a beautiful landscape, and a pleasant climate which makes Auli, one among a few “Most Visited Indian Hill Stations” in India for 2017.
4. Araku Valley-Andhra Pradesh:
[put_wpgm id=90]
Araku Valley Map
Known for “coffee plantations” is a scenic hill station known as Araku Valley located in Andhra Pradesh.
Elevated at an altitude of 910 meters above sea level, it is renowned for its picturesque beauty. Furthermore, it comprises of a beautiful evergreen landscape which includes trekking trails as well as some breathtaking waterfalls. It is also surrounded by lush green dense forests. In addition, a balloon festival was organized at this hill station in November 2017 which attracted a lot of tourists. It is the fusion of a beautiful landscape and an unique balloon festival arranged which makes Araku Valley, one among a few “Most Visited Indian Hill Stations” in India for 2017.
5. Munnar- Kerala:
[put_wpgm id=54]
Munnar Map
“The Kashmir of South India” is how Munnar a picturesque hill station in Kerala is often referred to because of its natural beauty.
Situated at an altitude of 1600 meters above sea level, it is known for its extremely pleasant climate. Furthermore, this hill station is said to have been formed by the merging of three rivers named Mudhirapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundaly. It is also popular for a variety in floral species. And so, it is the fusion of splendid climate, beautiful landscape, and exotic flora which makes Munnar, one among a few “Most Visited Indian Hill Stations” in India for 2017.
6. Ooty- Tamil Nadu:
[put_wpgm id=8]
Ooty Map
“Udagamandalam” is how the beautiful hill station known as Ooty in Tamil Nadu.
Nestled high up at an altitude of 2240 meters above sea level in the Nilgiri Mountain, it is known for its beautiful tea plantations. This hill station is renowned for its beautiful landscape which provides for a wide range in floral beauty. Furthermore, the Nilgiri Mountain Railway Line forms a major component of the cultural heritage of this hill station. It is therefore, the presence of a beautiful landscape and rich heritage in culture which makes Ooty, one among a few “Most Visited Indian Hill Stations” in India for 2017.
Image Credits: Wikimedia Commons and Flickr
Also Read: WHY AULI IS A MUST VISIT DESTINATION?