Summer in India is very unforgiving! With temperatures reaching mid to high 40 degrees, the weather can be unbearable for many of us. Road trips to cooler hill-stations is a great way to beat the sweltering heat. Every year, millions of people escape to the hills to cool off and enjoy the lovely mountains with great views. If you're looking for a summer getaway, we have a few recommendations of hill stations near Delhi NCR that are great to visit with your friends or family. The drive is great, especially when your on-road entertainment and safety is well taken care of with tech devices like car infotainment systems and GPS trackers.
Best hill stations near Delhi NCR for a road trip this summer
Mussoorie
Renowned for its colonial-era charm, pleasant subtropical climate, and winding mountain roads, Mussoorie has long been a favourite summer road trip for travellers from Delhi. The scenic drive offers breathtaking views of the Garhwal Himalayas, making the journey as memorable as the destination itself.
Often called the Queen of Hills, Mussoorie lies about 280 km from Delhi and can be reached by road in 6 to 7 hours. Once you arrive, popular attractions such as Mall Road, Kempty Falls, Gun Hill, Camel’s Back Road, Lal Tibba, and nearby Dhanaulti are all within easy reach. Combined with cool weather, lush landscapes, and colonial charm, Mussoorie makes for a refreshing and delightful getaway.
Nainital
Nainital is about 300 km from Delhi and takes roughly 7 hours to reach by road. It is a popular choice for a long drive, especially during the summer months. The route includes smooth highways and scenic hill roads, so clear navigation and good connectivity are helpful on busy weekends.
Built around the beautiful Naini Lake, Nainital is known for its calm weather and lush green hills. Visitors can enjoy boating on the lake, shop along Mall Road, relax at cozy cafés, and visit viewpoints like Snow View and Tiffin Top. The town’s lively yet peaceful vibe makes it a favorite among travelers.
Shimla
Shimla is about 350 km from Delhi and takes around 8–9 hours to reach by road. The drive is longer but rewarding, with changing terrain and narrow hill roads as you approach the town. The Intelliplay car Android system helps with clear navigation, manoeuvring, and parking, making the journey more comfortable.
Known as a Heritage Hill Retreat, Shimla blends colonial-era charm with pine-covered hills and lively local markets. Visitors can enjoy heritage walks around colonial landmarks, explore The Ridge, stroll along Mall Road, and visit Jakhoo Temple. The combination of scenic views, historic sites, and a bustling town vibe makes Shimla a favorite hill station for travelers.
Lansdowne
Lansdowne is about 250 km from Delhi and takes around 6–7 hours to reach by road. The drive is scenic and relatively uncongested, making it perfect for a slow, peaceful road trip. Reliable navigation is helpful, as signage can be limited on some stretches.
Known for its tranquility and pristine surroundings, Lansdowne is a quiet cantonment town with minimal tourist crowds. Visitors can enjoy nature walks, visit Bhulla Lake, take in panoramic views from Tip-in-Top, and relax during a calm weekend stay. The town’s serene atmosphere and natural beauty make it an ideal getaway for anyone looking to unwind.
Rishikesh
Rishikesh is about 240 km from Delhi and takes around 6–7 hours to reach by road. The drive combines long stretches of highway with busy town roads, especially on weekends. Planning your route and timing can help avoid congestion near popular ghats.
Set along the banks of the Ganga, Rishikesh offers a unique blend of spirituality and adventure. Visitors can enjoy river rafting, attend yoga retreats, witness the Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat, and try other adventure activities. The town’s mix of serene riverside vibes and thrilling experiences makes it a must-visit destination for those seeking both soul and excitement.
When on the road, entertainment is as important as safety. Gone are the days of CD players, and radio station frequencies keep changing as you pass through different towns and cities. Here's when a high quality car infotainment system can change your on-road experience. With a suite of in-built entertainment and safety features powered by in-built 4G internet connectivity, your long drive will be smoother and safer.
You can stream your favourite songs or Live news, and navigate to your destination using Google Maps, all whilst your in-built GPS tracker keeps a record of your car's movements. So if you're planning to beat the heat with an escape to one of these beautiful hill stations, do it with IntelliPlay.
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