10 Travel Places Where Nature Takes Centerstage

The hill stations in India are spread across the country and are not just restricted to northern India. You will find the grandeur of the Highlands everywhere! The summer season in India is quite brutal; therefore, hill stations are the most sought-after places for a getaway. With lush trees, flowing rivers, clear blue skies, and brisk winds, these places in India are covered in nature.

Hill stations have a lot to offer, and although some travellers want to hop on the side of adventure, others prefer to relax and take in the peace and quiet.  These are the perfect destinations for anyone looking for a rejuvenating time, as all the worries of the world are left behind when one is around nature. You can book trip packages in India from well-established travel package providers and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!

Top Nature Places in India

Here are the 10 must-visit nature places in India: -

• Gulmarg
• Nainital
• McLeodganj
• Auli
• Shillong
• Coorg
• Darjeeling
• Leh-Ladakh
• Munnar
• Gangtok

1. Gulmarg

Gulmarg is one of the best tourist places in India and is found amidst nature. Located at an altitude of 2,730m, Gulmarg is among the best places in India because it has beautiful nature spots that look almost surreal to visitors. This hill station offers locations that would make for romantic honeymoon photos as well as an adventure sports arena for all the adrenaline junkies.

Photography spots: Khilanmarg, Apharwat Peak, Alpather Lake

Must-visit cafes: Black Bear Brew, Northwind Café, Igloo Cafe

Best time to visit: March to June

2. Nainital

Talking about hill stations and missing out on Nainital is a sin. It is one of the most loved tourist places in India, with the best nature aesthetics for the gram. Take a boating ride at the lovely Naini Lake which is surrounded by lush mountains, listening to the pleasant sounds of water and prayer bells from the Naina Devi Temple. You can also take a stroll around the famous mall road or visit the Nainital Zoo, which makes it one of the best natural destinations in India.

Photography spots: Snow View, Naina Peak, Dorothy's Seat

Must-visit cafes: Café Lakeside, Café Himalaya, Simz Cafe

Best time to visit: March to June

3. McLeodganj

The land of his holiness Dalai Lama, McLeodganj is among the most beautiful natural places in India. The Tibetan and British influences on the architecture of this place make it all the more charming. It is famous among the trekker community in India as it takes you to gorgeous places surrounded by nature. Visit the Namgyal Monastery for a quick meditation break if you are seeking some much-needed alone time.

Photography spots: Triund, Indrahar Pass, Dal Lake

Must-visit cafes: Crepe Pancake Hut, Coffee Talk, Café By Mistake

Best time to visit:  March to July and September to December

4. Auli

Surrounded by nature, Auli is one of the best places in India. If you trek to the higher slopes, you can witness the mesmerising Himalayan peaks such as Nanda Devi, Mana Parvat, Dunagiri, etc. It tops the list among the destinations in India that are natural and skiing hubs. Prepare yourself for adventure in the winter months that come with the opening of adventure sports like ropeway rides, skiing, nature walks, etc.

Photography spots: Gorson Bugyal, Chenab Lake, Auli Artificial Lake

Must-visit cafes: The Ski Story Cafe, Auli Café

Best time to visit: November to March

5. Shillong

Introducing one of the most beautiful natural places in India, Shillong is a paradise for honeymooners. This stunning location is steeped in tradition as it is home to indigenous tribes like the Khasi and Garo. With majestic mountains, rolling hills, and alpine forests, you can spot the best nature places of North-East India here in Shillong. The nickname ‘Scotland of the East’ given by the British is justified after all!

Photography spots: Umiam Lake, Laitlum Canyons, Shillong Peak

Must-visit cafes: ML 05 Café, Café Shillong, Dylan’s Cafe

Best time to visit: March to June

6. Coorg

Add Coorg to your list of places to visit in India and witness nature at its best. The lush green hills and misty landscapes make this Carnatic hill station look like a beautiful painting that attracts tourists from all over the nation. You can spot many natural beauty places in this South Indian destination, such as the Nagarahole Wild Life Sanctuary. You can also indulge in fun activities like giving the elephants a bath at the Dubare Elephant Camp.

Photography spots: Abbey Falls, Gaddige Raja’s Tomb, Mandalpatti Viewpoint

Must-visit cafes: Western Terrain Café, Bigcup Cafe

Best time to visit: November to February

7. Darjeeling

One of the best tourist places in India that is located amidst nature is Darjeeling. Located near Kolkata, this destination sits 2,050 metres above sea level and boasts jaw-dropping views. The kind people and beautiful nature-rich places in this eastern India hill station will definitely bring you back to this place. You can have a peek at the world’s third-highest peak, Kanchenjunga, emerging from the lush tea plantations of this place.

Photography spots: Happy Valley Tea Estate, Batasia Loop, Tiger Hill

Must-visit cafes: Coco Rio Cafe & Tea Bar, Himalayan Coffee, Nerdvana Books & Coffee

Best time to visit: April to June

8. Leh-Ladakh

Surrounded by natural beauty, Leh-Ladakh is one of the most beautiful places in India. This destination is perfect for motorheads, as it features the highest motorable road in the world. One can indulge in its rich culture, try the delectable cuisine, or trek to some of the most famous tourist places in India amidst nature such as the Pangong Lake.

Photography spots: Pangong Lake, Khardungla Pass, Nubra

Must-visit cafes: Leh Town Café, Naas Café, Lehvenda Cafe

Best time to visit: April to June

9. Munnar

Relax your soul with Mother Nature at one of the best places to visit in India, Munnar. This hill station is situated in the Western Ghats and offers various adventure activities such as rock climbing, trekking, mountain biking, paragliding, and much more. Boasting the largest tea garden in South India, this destination will make it to your list of places to visit in India as it has breathtaking natural attractions.

Photography spots: Tea Plantations, Chitirapuram, Leopard Rock

Must-visit cafes: The Steaming Mug, Tea Tales Café, Taste the Brews

Best time to visit: December to February

10. Gangtok

Find natural beauty and some of the best places in India in the capital state of Sikkim. Gangtok is a beautiful hill station that is mostly covered in clouds, giving spectacular views to whoever visits this place. When in Gangtok, a cable car ride is a must! It gives you a bird's-eye view of the alluring mountains and lush forests. Being one of the most nature-abundant places in India, Gangtok attracts the most visitors with the popular Nathula Pass and Tsomgo Lake.

Photography spots: Nathula Pass, Ganesh Tok View Point, Banjhakari Water Falls

Must-visit cafes: Café Royale Gangtok, Café Live & Loud, Baker’s Cafe

Best time to visit: September to June

There are a multitude of tourist places in India that offer the best of nature. Wherever you live, you will find a hill station close to you. So get ready to soothe your soul with adventure-filled experiences and breathtaking vistas of the hills.