Up and afar, the sun plays hide & seek with clouds draped in a layer of mist.
For someone has righteously said, "Nature's heart beats strong amid the hills".
Its sheer bliss to wake up in the embrace of snow-capped hills, and India is blessed with numerous hill stations that offer the perfect setting to experience this mystic. Sipping coffee in the calm of hills is certainly a respite for many souls that seek solace away from the busy streets of a metropolis. The tranquil ambience and the cool breeze that prevails relieve you from the tension of daily life and the wrath of summer heat.
That said, given below is a list of the best hill stations that have been stolen from the hidden treasure of India and put forward only for you.
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Blessed with a moderately cool weather throughout the year, Manali is one of the most visited tourist places in the Northern Region of India. This small valley, located in the mountains of Himachal Pradesh, serves as the best hill station for honeymoon couples in India. The tranquil and religious surrounding of the monasteries and temples will definitely calm down your restless mind. When in Manali, dont miss a trip to the Solang Valley and ice scooter ride in the Rohtang Pass.
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Popular as the Queen of Hills, Shimla is one of the most beautiful cities in India. It served as the Summer Capital to the British and today it is the capital of Himachal Pradesh. The enchanting beauty that the city possesses will leave any traveler spellbound. Mall Road, The Ridge, Christ Church are among the famous sightseeing places in this aesthetically rich city. Dont miss the toy train ride and admire the picturesque view of the city's old civilization and natural stretches.
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Nainital, named after the pear-shaped Naini Lake and the Naina Devi Temple, is one of the most popular hill stations in India. Boating amidst the serene lake that is encircled by lush green hills on all sides will definitely calm your senses. Pt. G.B. Pant Zoo, Eco Cave and the Kilbury Bird Sanctuary are important tourist attractions in Nainital. While visiting Nainital, a trek to Lands End, Snow View and Tiffin Top will reawaken your mood and make you fall in love with the natural scenic beauty. A visit to the Queen of Hills in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand will transpose you into a completely different surrounding.
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Kullu is a small town located on the banks of Beas River. Kullu, nestled between the lower and the great Himalayas is also known as the Valley of Gods or Devbhumi because of the many pilgrimage sights. The picturesque setting of this valley makes it one of the most beautiful hill stations in India. Tirthan Valley, Kheer Ganga and Manikaran Springs attract tourists towards itself because of the amazing visual treat. Whatever you are planning; family trip, friends trip or honeymoon, Kullu is an apt location for you holidays.
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Elevated at a height of 2005 mts above the sea level, Mussoorie overlooks the mesmerizing Doon Valley and the snow-capped Shivalik Range. The Mall, which stretches from the Picture Palace to the Public Library, is flocked with tourists throughout the year. Kempty Falls, Jharipani Falls and the Camels Back Road are some of the popular natural escapes that offer thrilling adventures. Drive 34 km uphill from Dehradun to reach this amazing hill station.
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Popular as the Cultural Capital of Kumaon, Almora should be on your go-to list if you are planning a holiday. The moderate climate that prevails throughout the year will definitely provide relief from the summer heat. If you have planned your travel to Shimla or Nainital, then take some time and stop at this mesmerizing hamlet to rediscover the true essence of its diverse cuisines, culture and temples. Chitai Temple, Kasai Devi Temple and the Jageshwar Dham attract thousands of pilgrims from different parts of the world.
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Overshadowed by the majestic Garhwal Himalayas and covered in lush greenery of Tehri Garhwal District of Uttarakhand is a small town called Chamba. The beauty of this small town lies in its clean and clear surrounding that remains untouched by the pollution of the cities. This pristine hamlet is covered with thick Pine and Deodar trees that provide a natural photographic setting to the entire location.
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Famous for the Bardinath Temple, which is counted as one of the most pious pilgrim site of the sacred Char Dham Yatra, Badrinath attracts tons of tourists because of this very reason. It is snuggled between the Nar and Narayan mountain ranges that make a mesmerizing view for the nature lovers. The Brahma Kapal, Narad Kund, Tapt Kund and Charanpaduka are some other places that should not be missed while visiting the town of Badrinath in the Chamoli District of Uttarakhand.
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Ranikhet, literally translated as Queens Land, is a calm and quiet hill station in the Almora District of Uttarakhand. At an elevation of 1,829 mts, you can easily have an excellent view of the majestic Himalayas. Ranikhet transposes you into a completely different time away from the maddening crowd of the city amidst the green forests. This hill station has a number of amazing sightseeing places like Chaubatia Gardens, Manila, Majkhali, Rani Jheel etc.
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Kashmir, called the Heaven on Earth worldwide, houses Gulmarg, which is the best summer resort in North India. This small town is the seventh best ski destination in Asia. If you love winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing or heli-skiing, then Gulmarg should be your next getaway destination. Gulmarg Gondola, which is the worlds highest ropeway ferry (3,979 mts high!), should not be missed.
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Dharamshala, a small hamlet town surrounded by the alluring hills of the Kangra District, is a popular weekend getaway destination for the people living in the Northern parts of India. This hill station is segmented into upper and lower parts where the upper part is the famous McLeod Ganj and the lower part inhabits normal civic life. Visit this enchanting town to spend some quiet time in the arms of nature.
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Dalhousie, located in the Chamba District of Himachal Pradesh, is 1,970 mts above the sea level. A visit to this town and you will experience the colonial connections that this it harbors. It is atop five hills that give it a different ambience and natural setting. Panch Pulla, Satdhara Falls, Khajjar, Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, Diakund Peak are among the top sightseeing spots in this hill station. If you are an adventure-sport enthusiast, then river rafting, river crossing and rock climbing may also attract you.
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Situated at an altitude of 1,700 mts from the sea level, this is an amazingly calm hill stations in the Pauri Garhwal District of Uttarakhand. It is a must visit hill station for those who love exploring the undiscovered places. This is one of the cleanest hill stations as it is maintained by the army people of Garhwal. Dont forget to visit the Bhulla Lake, Hawaghar, Tarkeshwar Temple, St Johns Church and the Darwan Singh Museum when you visit this quiet hill station.
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Located in the Himalayan range of Uttarakhand at an elevation of 3000 mts, Auli is the perfect getaway destination for those who enjoy snow sports like skiing. There are numerous viewpoints that offer a picturesque view of the great Himalayan Mountains. Trekking tracks like Kwani Bugyal and Gurso Bugyal are famous among other exciting trails in Himalayan ranges. Courtesy of the numerous adventure sports, it is counted among the most sizzling and thrilling hill stations in India.
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The filmy setting created by the green stretches of tea plantations amidst the serene mountains make Darjeeling one of the best hill stations in India. The botanical gardens, zoo, monasteries and ropeway cable car add to the lure of this town. It also offers a great view of the Kanchenjunga to entice your visual senses. Hop into the Toy Train to have an amazing ride along the rich tea estates and small hills.
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Nestled in the celestial Himalayan ranges is a pristine hill station called Gangtok. Capital of Sikkim, which has the lowest population in India, this city still shows the true essence of natural beauty that is unharmed by the pollution of the metro cities. The picturesque view that this city offers of the Kanchenjunga peak is spellbinding and leaves every traveler delighted. Tsomgo Lake, Saramsa Garden Tashi View Point, Ganesh Tok View Point etc are some of the places that should not be missed from your itinerary.
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A 2.5 hours drive from Darjeeling will land you in the bewitching town of Kalimpong. This town in West Bengal is rich in culture, heritage and flora fauna as well. Housing famous monasteries, picturesque viewpoints and numerous museums, this town is an apt location for your next holiday trip. Dr. Grahams Homes, Durga Mandir, Hanuman Temple and the Mangal Dham are other must visit places in this town.
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Famed as the Scotland of East, Shillong is an extremely beautiful hill station in the Northeastern state of Meghalaya. Perched at an elevation of 1500 mts, this capital city resembles the pleasant Scottish weather condition all year round. Elephant Falls, Lady Hyadri Park, Wards Lake Shillongs Peak, State Museum and Spread Eagle Falls are not to be missed while visiting this hill station.
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This town is named after the Tawang Monastery founded by Merak Lama Gyatso. Tawang, a small town in the Northeastern parts of Indian state Arunachal Pradesh. This hill station is snow clad during the months of December and January, which add to the natural charm of this place. Sela Pass, the only high-altitude motorable pass in the world, is a remarkable sight with hills capped with snow and light sun rays peeping from behind. The Nuranang Waterfalls, Bumla Pass, Gorichen Peak and Shonga-tser Lake will cast a spell on you with their stunning views.
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This hill station is one of the latest explored places in the environs of Darjeeling. Located at an altitude of 1770 mts, this hill station is around 50km away from Siliguri in West Bengal. The Sumendu Lake entices the travelers with its exceptional boating options. As it is situated in the Eastern regions of India, this hill station offers pleasant climate throughout the year, making it an amazing summer getaway destination.
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The perfect weekend getaway retreat for Mumbaikars and Punekars, Khandala was popularized among the Indians by the famous Bollywood number Aati kya Khandala? The mention of Khandala awakens the movie buff within us, but this place is much more than that. It is a much liked hill station for honeymoon in India. Dukes Nose, Amrutanjan Point and Tigers Leap offer an amazing view of the nearby places.
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Along the Sahyadri Hills of the Western Ghats, is the stunning town of Lonavala. A quick getaway from Mumbai or Pune, this hill station serves as an amazing hill resort to many people from across the country. This place is lined with ruins of ancient caves and also houses a number of lakes and dams. The Bhushi Dam, Bhaja Cave, Lonavala Lake and the Tungaril Lake are some of the best locations in this Maharashtrian hill station.
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Nestled in the Western Ghats in Maharashtra, Mahabaleshwar is an apt location for a summer retreat. Housing one of the few evergreen forests of the country, this hill station is popular for its lush greenery and soothing atmosphere. The Lingmala Waterfalls, Pratapgarh Fort, Venna Lake, Elphinstone Point, Wilson Point, Connaught Peak etc are some of the most attractive sightseeing places in Mahabaleshwar.
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Matheran is the smallest but an enchanting hill station in the Raigad District of Maharashtra. Perched at an elevation of 800 mts from the sea level, this small town is a popular destination for the people of the neighboring places like Mumbai and Pune. Even though the smallest, this hill station still has 38 lookout points that lets you have an angular views of the neighboring places. Panorama Point, Alexander Point, Echo Point, Charlotte Point, Khandala Point are amongst the many spots that offer a complete scenic view of the natural beauty that this hill station encircles.
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A 2 hours drive from Pune will lead you away from the hustle-bustle of city life and drop you into the lap of nature. Panchgani, literally meaning The Land of Five Hills was discovered by the British and served as a perfect summer retreat. The road towards this hill station is paralleled by the natural flow of Krishna River. The Table Land is a sought after tourist destination along with points like Devils Kitchen, Parsi Point, Sidney Point etc.
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Isnt it surprising if you find a hill station in a state that is famous for its large stretch of barren desert? Mount Abu, an oasis in the dusty state, is a blessing for the people of Rajasthan and other neighboring areas. This hill station has its own charms. It attracts tourists with its tranquil lakes and magnificent forts. Dilwara Jain Temple, Guru Shikhar, Sunset Point and Nakki Lake should not be missed while you plan your trip to this spell-casting hill station.
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Perched at an elevation of 3177 feet, the Panhala hill station is just an hour drive away from Kolhapur, Maharashtra. The Panhala fort in this small town is a major tourist attraction. The elevated height offers a great panoramic view of the valley below. With a cool climate throughout the year, this small hill station is abuzz with tourists all the time. You can visit this place to enjoy a quiet weekend away from the noises of the city.
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The single most hill station in Gujarat, Saputara welcomes a large number of tourists from the state as well as the neighboring areas. The misty air, green landscapes, picturesque waterfalls and pristine lakes will make you get closer to the Mother Nature. The famous Pushpak Ropeway should not be missed when you visit this mystical town of Saputara. There are many other activities like boating, trekking, rock climbing and paragliding that would excite your mind as well as the soul.
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The view of Munnar mirrors a landscape painted by the hands of God. Lush green valleys with mountains all around and a thin layer of mist draping the entire place, thats how you picture Munnar. The green tea estates stretching for miles on a go will be a treat to the eyes. Located at the confluence of three rivers in the southern state of Kerala, Munnar is one of the best honeymoon destinations in India.
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Araku Valley. A rail journey to this small town is recommended, as thats where the real fun is. The rail journey takes you through many streams, hills and tunnels that make it all the more exciting. The green landscape covered with coffee plantation with a serene white layer of mist pervading over it serves as the perfect place for your nature photography.
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Who says that hill stations are only in the north of India? Take a look at Coonoor and you will realize that South is nowhere behind. At an elevation of 6,000 feet, this hill station is famous for its tea plantations and the Nilgiri Mountain Railway. The Lambs Rock and Lady Cannings Seat offer spectacular view of the Nilgiri and the tea and coffee estates. Dont forget to pay your visit at the Sims Park to see the large collection of plant species.
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A heaven for all the nature lovers, Coorg is a small district in Karnataka. Officially known as Kodagu, it will bewitch you with its lovely landscape comprising of acres of coffee plantation and numerous dense forests. Adventure freaks can also undertake activities like trekking, white-water rafting and angling. Abbey, Irruppu and Buruge Falls will entice your senses and Tadiandamol Peak, Honnamana Kere Lake will drive you into a state of tranquil bliss.
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Literally meaning The Goddesss Pond, Devikulam is a small hill station in the state of Kerala. A hidden gem in the womb of Munnar, this hill station offers amazing kaleidoscopic view of green mountains, diverse flora fauna and near reaching clouds with the scintillating Sita Devi Lake in the centre. The Pallivasal Falls and the Thoovanam Falls are a major attraction here that should not be missed while vacationing in Devikulam.
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Sitting atop the Western Ghats in Kerala is a small district called Idukki. It houses the worlds second largest arch dam, which offers amazing scenic views to all the nature lovers. This Gods Own District is blessed with natural trails for trekking and has many other attractions like wildlife sanctuaries, spice parks, waterfalls and lakes. With pleasant weather all the time, you can visit this place any time of the year to enjoy an amazing eco tour.
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Gifted with a spectacular natural setting and nestled in the folds of Pallani Hills, Kodaikanal is the best tourist destination in Tamil Nadu. If you are planning for hill station holidays in the South, then there is no better place than Kodaikanal. This hill station is a perfect blend of nature and culture. Its scenic beauty is reflected in the milky Bear Shola Falls, the pristine Kodaikanal and Berijam Lake and the naturally rich Bryant Park.
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Ooty, a heaven for the lovers of nature has everything from mountains and waterfalls to lakes and gardens. Also called the Blue Mountain because of the indigo colored kurinji flower that blooms in this area once in every 12 years, this place looks breathtaking during that period. Hop on the Toy Train to enjoy an exciting trip to ooty. Apart from the famous Doddabetta Peak, Avalanche Lake, Ooty Lake and Emerald Lake there are numerous forest reserves, gardens and dams that will awe your senses.
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Peermade is elevated at a height of 950 mts above the sea level and nestled in the Sahyadri ranges of Western Ghats in Kerala. Covered with spectacular grasslands and dense pine forest, it is a natural escape for anyone who wants to spend time away from the maddening city. When visiting Peermade, dont forget to include Kuttikanam, Thrissanku Hills, Summer Palace, Panchalimedu and Madammakkulam to experience the best of this hill station.
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Nandi Hills, the former summer retreat of Tipu Sultan, is a one-hour drive from Bangalore and acts as a perfect weekend getaway destination. The ancient fortress that it homes is very popular among the tourists for its picturesque view. The hills that are over 4800 mts above the sea level offer an amazing trekking and cycling tour. Tipu Drop offers a spectacular panoramic view of the city. The temples that are abode to many deities will also serve your religious beliefs.
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Perched at an altitude of 1265 mts above the sea level, Horsley Hills, in Chittoor, Andhra Pradesh, is a popular weekend destination for the people of Bangalore. The exotic vegetation cover of this region and the mesmerizing mountains draped in green are a delight to the eye. Spend your holidays in the unpolluted atmosphere of Andhras Ooty to have a once in a lifetime experience in South. This hill station is famous for Koundinya Wildlife Sanctuary, Mallama Temple and Environment Park, so dont miss on them.
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Sitting in the colorfully decorated Shikaras and sipping the hot Kahwah is the perfect setting for a day out with your loved ones in Srinagar. The snow-capped mountains lined with maple trees in the foothills will definitely add to the charm of the natural setting. The romantic setting of Dal Lake, Mughal Gardens, Wular Lake and Manasbal Lake makes it the one of the most popular hill station for honeymoon in India.
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Pahalgam, a nomadic village undisturbed by the fast-paced lives of the cities is elevated at an altitude of 2500 mts above the sea level. A morning in Pahalgam would witness sun peeking through the snow-clad mountains and casting a magical spell on the entire region. If you are an adventure seeker, then you can indulge in many activities like trekking, whitewater rafting or trout fishing.
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Located in the far eastern corner of India, is a small hill station called Champhai. The cool climate that prevails throughout the year makes it quite popular among the tourists. The beautiful natural setting of the town with hills on all the sides and not to forget the amazing view of the Myanmar Hills, make this hill station a must visit place for all the travel enthusiasts. The Rih Dil Lake, Murlen National Park and Mura Puk are pleasant sights in this amazing hill station in Mizoram.
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With an elevation of 750 mts, Wilson Hills is a mesmerizing hill station in the Valsad District of Gujarat. Wilson Hills is one of the few points in the world from where you get an amazing view of a sea instead of forests or valleys. The atmosphere in this hill station is less humid as compared to other parts of the state. Visit this hill station with your family and friends to enjoy panoramic view from six different points.
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Popularly known as Teerthraj or the King of Pilgrimage, Amarkantak is a highly visited pilgrim site in Madhya Pradesh. Located at the meeting point of Vindhya and Satpura range, it is the emergence point of holy rivers like Narmada, Mahanadi and Amadoh. Because of its popularity among the Hindu devotees, Amarkantak witnesses a large number of visitors throughout the year. Dont miss out on the Kapildhara Falls and the Dugdhadhara Falls when you visit this place.
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Exotic flora and fauna. This hill station is a perfect getaway for those who wish to cut themselves off from the busy lives of the city. Surrounded by Megamalai Wildlife Sanctuary and Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, this hill station is perfect to satisfy your craving for natural holiday. Loose yourself in the lap of nature and find your inner peace in the serene environs of Meghamalai.
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The natural setting of Yercaud looks as if God has artistically painted this hill station in different hues of green and blue. Popular as the Jewel of the South, Yercaud is an enchanting hill station in the Salem District of Tamil Nadu. The Ladys Seat that overlooks the serpentine ghat road offers an intriguing view. Yercaud Lake, Anna Park and Pagoda Point are some other sightseeing places in this hill station. A trip to this hill station should be on your travel list if you are an ardent nature lover.
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Seated at an altitude of 1500 mts, Kurseong is a hidden gem in the Darjeeling District of West Bengal. The Toy Train that runs through Kurseong is an exciting means to visit all the sightseeing places in this town. Dotted with many natural sites, religious sites and museum, this hill station is a perfect destination to enjoy your time away from home.
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Surely the Gods must live here, this is no place for men, these exact words were used by the famous novelist Rudyard Kipling to describe Lahaul and Spiti, the area where Keylong is situated. At an elevation of 3450 mts, this place offers a mystic feel because of its amazing misty landscape comprising of valleys, rivers and snow-clad mountains. Kardang Monastery must be visited while you enjoy your stay here at Keylong.
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Situated about 2072 mts above the sea level, Pelling is a beautiful hill station in Sikkim, India. The main attraction of this hill station is the amazing view that it offers of the Kanchenjunga Peak. The snow-clad mountains viewed from this hill station offer a great treat for the eye. The tranquility of this place will offer peace of mind and sway you off your feet.
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Lush green folds of mountains covered in a thick layer of mist offering a scenic view to the travelers; welcome to Aizawl, the capital city of Mizoram, a preferred tourist spot in the northeast. The Burra Bazaar, Mizoram State Museum, Durtlang Hills, Solomons Temple are some of the popular tourist destinations in this quiet city of Aizawl.
Conclusion
Natures heart beats strong amid the hills. Whether you are a lover of nature or not, a visit to these hill stations will definitely make you fall in love with it. So wait no more and pack your bags to experience nature at its best.
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