Top 10 Hill Stations Near Moradabad — Scenic Escapes for Every Kind of Traveler

After spending a few busy days in Moradabad’s bustling brass markets, I often find myself craving the calm of mountain air. The cool breeze that carries the scent of pine trees and the promise of slow mornings. Luckily, Moradabad sits in the perfect spot for quick hill getaways! Within just a few hours of driving, I can swap city noise for chirping birds, misty views and cozy hillside cafés.

The best part is there’s a hill station for every mood. Want a family weekend by the lake? Head to Nainital or Bhimtal. Dreaming of peaceful sunsets and mountain walks? Try Ranikhet or Almora. Or maybe you are after snow-capped adventures — Auli is calling your name!

In this travel guide, I’ll take you through the most beautiful hill stations near Moradabad, sharing personal travel tips, best times to visit, and road routes that make the trip as magical as the destination. Whether you’re a local looking for weekend peace or an international traveler planning a North India circuit, this list is your ticket to the hills!

Quick Overview — Hill Stations Near Moradabad at a Glance

Before we dive into each destination, here’s a handy table for a quick peek at the best hill stations near Moradabad from easy weekend getaways to long road-trip-worthy mountain retreats.

Top Hill Stations Within 150 km of Moradabad (Perfect for Weekends)

Sometimes we don’t have much time to go far from our stay and that’s where we need to find places nearest within 100 or 150 kms. I have listed for you in this section.

1: ⇒ Nainital – (130 km | 3.5–4 hrs)

The moment I see the emerald-green Naini Lake shimmering under the sun, I know I’ve arrived somewhere special. Nainital is one of those timeless hill towns that never loses its charm. This is a blend of cozy cafés, lively bazaars and peaceful lakeside walks.

Here’s how I like to spend a day here: mornings start with a warm cup of chai near the lake, followed by a boat ride with mist hovering over the water. Later, I love strolling up to Tiffin Top or Snow View Point to watch the Himalayan peaks peeking through the clouds. And when the evening chill sets in, Mall Road comes alive with lights, laughter and steaming momos!

Must-Visit Spots:

• Naini Lake
  
• Naina Devi Temple
  
• Tiffin Top
  
• Snow View Point
  
• The Mall Road

Where to Stay:
Plenty of stays around Tallital and Mallital from heritage hotels to cozy homestays with lake views.

Pro Tip:
Start early from Moradabad to avoid traffic near Kathgodam. Parking fills up fast on weekends, so pre-book your hotel with a parking facility.

2: ⇒ Bhimtal – (125 km | 3–3.5 hrs)

If Nainital feels a bit too crowded for your taste, Bhimtal is its serene cousin. The lake here is larger and quieter, surrounded by lush hills that reflect beautifully in the calm water. What I love most is that Bhimtal lets you slow down — sip coffee by the lake, feed the ducks or take a peaceful paddleboat ride to the island café in the middle.

Adventure lovers can go paragliding nearby while families enjoy picnics by the lakeside. It’s also an excellent base for visiting Sattal and Naukuchiatal, two other hidden gems just a short drive away.

Must-Do Experiences:

• Boating on Bhimtal Lake
  
• Visit the Island Aquarium Café
  
• Explore Butterfly Research Centre
  
• Short drive to Sattal & Naukuchiatal

Pro Tip:
Visit during March–June for perfect weather. In monsoon, the mist and greenery make it dreamy but carry a raincoat — showers can surprise you!

3: ⇒ Corbett – (85 km | 2.5 hrs)

Okay, Corbett isn’t technically a hill station but it’s too magical to leave out! Just a couple of hours from Moradabad, Jim Corbett National Park marks the beginning of the Himalayan foothills and offers that wonderful mix of forest adventure and riverside peace.

I still remember my first early-morning jeep safari here — the air smelled of wet earth and the thrill of spotting a tiger was unlike anything else! Whether or not you see one, the experience of driving through Sal forests with deer, elephants and colorful birds is unforgettable.

What to Do:

• Jeep safari in Corbett Tiger Reserve
  
• Visit Garjia Devi Temple
  
• Riverside walk at Dhikuli
  
• Stay in jungle resorts by the Kosi River

Best Time to Visit:
November to June (most zones open). Avoid July–Sept when it’s closed for monsoon.

Pro Tip:
Book your safari online in advance — the limited slots fill quickly, especially in Dhikala and Bijrani zones.

Mid-Range Hill Stations (150–250 km) – Worth the Drive!

There’s something special about leaving behind the plains and watching the world turn greener with every turn of the road. These hill stations may take a little longer to reach from Moradabad but trust me every extra kilometer is worth it.

If you love scenic drives, misty sunrises and that feeling of being away but not too far, this section is for you!

4: ⇒ Almora – (180 km | 5 hrs)

The moment I reached Almora, I knew it was different from other hill towns. This isn’t a place of rush or crowd but it’s a slow, soulful escape filled with heritage homes, ancient temples and cozy corners that overlook endless valleys. The air here smells of pine, and the evenings feel like poetry written in golden light.

Almora’s beauty lies in its old-world charm. I loved walking through its narrow lanes, discovering local sweets like Bal Mithai and chatting with shopkeepers who seemed to have endless stories about mountain life. From the peaceful Bright End Corner to the spiritual calm at Kasar Devi Temple (a place even Swami Vivekananda once meditated), Almora feels like a retreat for the mind and soul.

Top Things to Do:

• Visit Kasar Devi Temple for its views and serene energy.
  
• Watch the sunset from Bright End Corner — truly magical!
  
• Shop for local crafts and copperware in the old bazaar.
  
• Visit Chitai Golu Devta Temple, famous for wishes written on paper bells.

Best Time to Visit:
March to June for pleasant weather; October–November for clear skies and great views of snow peaks.

Where to Stay:
Choose a hillside homestay or eco-resort in Kasar Devi or Binsar area — they offer breathtaking valley views and peaceful nights under starry skies.

5: ⇒ Ranikhet – (170 km | 5 hrs)

If peace had a postcode, it would probably be Ranikhet. The name itself means “Queen’s Meadow” and honestly, it’s easy to see why. As I drove up from Almora, the winding roads opened into sweeping views of pine forests, colonial cottages and the distant glimmer of snow-capped peaks. The moment I arrived, all the city noise in my head just… disappeared.

Ranikhet isn’t about rushing from one attraction to another but it’s about slowing down. I spent my mornings sipping chai by the balcony, listening to the wind hum through tall deodars and watching sunlight dance over the hills.

But if you are someone who loves exploring, there’s plenty to do!

Top Things to Do:

• Visit Chaubatia Gardens — a peaceful orchard area with Himalayan views and fruit trees everywhere.
  
• Walk around Jhula Devi Temple, known for its hundreds of hanging bells.
  
• Enjoy a quiet picnic or a short trek at Bhalu Dam.
  
• Stop by the Ranikhet Golf Course — one of India’s highest and most scenic golf grounds.
  
• Don’t miss the Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum if you enjoy history and army heritage.

Best Time to Visit:
March to October for green hills and blooming flowers. If you visit between December and February, you might just catch a light snowfall — perfect for cozy evenings!

Where to Stay:
Ranikhet has a lovely mix of army guesthouses, boutique stays and hillside cottages. I personally love the ones near Upat or Majhkhali which are quiet, scenic and often with their own garden cafés.

6: ⇒ Mukteshwar – (160 km | 4.5 hrs)

Tucked high in the Kumaon hills, Mukteshwar feels like a dream carved out of clouds. The drive from Moradabad to here is pure joy with winding roads, apple orchards and occasional glimpses of distant peaks teasing you around every turn. When I finally reached, I was welcomed by silence — the kind that feels peaceful, not empty.

The town takes its name from the Mukteshwar Dham Temple, an ancient Shiva shrine perched on a cliff. Standing there, with wind brushing past my face and the valley stretching endlessly below, I understood why this place is considered sacred. The view from up there is simply breathtaking, especially at sunset!

Top Things to Do:

• Visit Mukteshwar Dham Temple and enjoy the panoramic valley view.
  
• Experience the thrill at Chauli Ki Jali, a dramatic cliffside rock famous for adventure sports and photography.
  
• Explore local fruit orchards and try fresh apples, peaches, and plums (if you visit in season).
  
• Trek through forest trails or simply relax at a hillside café with a book in hand.

Best Time to Visit:
March to June for pleasant weather, and October to November for crystal-clear skies and snow views. Winters can be chilly, but the snow makes it magical.

Where to Stay:
Mukteshwar offers everything from rustic cottages to luxurious eco-resorts. I loved staying in a small homestay overlooking the valley — waking up to the sound of birds and a sunrise straight out of a painting was unforgettable!

7: ⇒ Lansdowne – (230 km | 6 hrs)

There’s a moment on the road to Lansdowne when the forests suddenly grow thicker, the air turns colder and you realize that you’ve left the rush behind. Nestled deep in the Pauri Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, Lansdowne is a cantonment town that’s as beautiful as it is peaceful. No loud horns, no flashy lights — just the sound of birds, the rustle of pine leaves, and the occasional marching tune from the army base nearby.

When I first arrived here, I felt like I’d stepped into a postcard. The mist curled through pine forests, small cottages peeked through greenery and the air smelled wonderfully earthy. It’s one of those rare hill stations that still feels raw and real with no chaos but just calm.

Top Things to Do:

• Walk up to Tip-in-Top Point for incredible Himalayan views, especially at sunrise.
  
• Spend a quiet hour at Bhulla Lake — rent a boat or sit by the water and feed the ducks.
  
• Visit the St. Mary’s Church, a colonial-era gem surrounded by towering trees.
  
• Drop by Garhwal Rifles Regimental War Memorial Museum for a touch of history.
  
• Enjoy slow walks through pine trails — the best therapy for tired city souls.

Best Time to Visit:
October to June is perfect for sightseeing. In winter (Dec–Feb), Lansdowne turns misty and magical — carry warm clothes if you are visiting then.

Where to Stay:
You’ll find plenty of army guesthouses, family-run hotels and cozy cottages. I loved staying at a hillside property that served hot Maggi and chai with a view — simple joys that make trips like this unforgettable.

Pro Tip:
Lansdowne doesn’t have a buzzing nightlife or busy markets and that’s exactly what makes it special. Come here to disconnect, meditate and breathe. Also, avoid driving after sunset — the forest roads get foggy.

Farther but Fabulous (250–350 km) – For Long Getaways

If you have got a long weekend or a few extra days to spare, these hill stations are your perfect match. The drive from Moradabad takes a little time but the reward? Breathtaking views, snow adventures and cozy stays that feel straight out of a storybook. From the snow-clad slopes of Auli to the peaceful charm of Kausani and the evergreen beauty of Mussoorie, this is where road trips turn into memories for life.

8: ⇒ Auli – (300 km | 8 hrs)

The first time I saw Auli blanketed in snow, it honestly took my breath away. This is not just a hill station — it’s a winter wonderland perched high above the Garhwal Himalayas. Known as one of India’s best skiing destinations, Auli is a dream come true for snow seekers, adventure lovers and anyone who has ever wanted to see the Himalayas up close.

The journey from Moradabad to Auli itself is an adventure when you drive through Rishikesh, Srinagar (Uttarakhand) and Joshimath, watching the landscape slowly turn from green valleys to snowy peaks. The final stretch, where you take the Auli Ropeway from Joshimath, is pure magic — floating above pine forests with the mountains right in front of you!

Top Things to Do:

• Ride the Auli Ropeway, one of Asia’s longest cable cars — the views are unreal!
  
• Try skiing or snowboarding (December–March) — lessons are available for beginners.
  
• Visit Auli Artificial Lake, especially at sunset — it’s postcard-perfect.
  
• Take a short trek to Gorson Bugyal, a vast meadow surrounded by snow peaks.
  
• Visit Joshimath town and the Narsingh Temple, known for its peaceful energy.

Best Time to Visit:

• December to March: Snowfall and skiing season — magical but cold!
  
• April to June: Pleasant weather and clear views — ideal for trekkers and families.

Where to Stay:
Choose from cozy hillside resorts or eco-cottages with snow views. If you want an authentic local experience, stay overnight in Joshimath and visit Auli by cable car in the morning.

9: ⇒ Kausani – (280 km | 7 hrs)

If peace had an address, it would probably be Kausani. Tucked away in the Bageshwar district of Uttarakhand, this little hill town feels like a soft dream of slow mornings, Himalayan peaks shining in gold and the faint smell of pine drifting in the air. When I arrived here after a long drive from Moradabad, all I wanted to do was sit quietly, sip hot tea and watch the snow-capped Trishul, Nanda Devi and Panchachuli peaks glow in the distance.

Kausani isn’t about crowds or chaos — it’s about calm. It’s a place that invites you to pause. To watch the clouds roll by. To listen to the whisper of the mountains. No wonder Mahatma Gandhi once called it the “Switzerland of India.”

Top Things to Do:

• Catch sunrise from the Kausani Viewpoint — the Himalayas look like they’re on fire in the morning light.
  
• Visit the peaceful Anashakti Ashram, where Gandhi once stayed.
  
• Explore Baijnath Temple, about 17 km away — an ancient beauty by the Gomti River.
  
• Take a nature walk through the Kausani Tea Estate and don’t forget to buy a few packets of mountain tea!
  
• If you love photography, head to Rudradhari Falls and Caves for misty forest shots.

Where to Stay:
You’ll find peaceful resorts and eco-lodges offering sunrise views right from your balcony. I stayed at a homestay where the host served local Kumaoni food. It was simple, warm and delicious (don’t miss Aloo ke Gutke and Bhaang ki Chutney!).

10: ⇒ Mussoorie – (290 km | 7–8 hrs)

Ah, Mussoorie! Every time I visit, I feel like I’m stepping into a story — cobbled streets, mountain cafés with steaming coffee and clouds lazily drifting past my window. It’s lively yet peaceful, old-fashioned yet youthful — the kind of place that makes you want to linger just a little longer.

Perched above Dehradun, Mussoorie has been a favorite since the British era and for good reason. The views of the Doon Valley and the Shivalik range are stunning, and every corner of the town seems to hide a story. Whether you are traveling with family, friends or solo, Mussoorie wraps you in mountain magic the moment you arrive.

When I first walked down Mall Road, the gentle buzz of laughter, music and the smell of roasted corn made me realize — this is not just a hill station but an emotion for travelers.

Top Things to Do:

• Take a cable car ride to Gun Hill Point — the views of the valley are spectacular!
  
• Visit Kempty Falls, one of the most famous (and fun!) picnic spots near town.
  
• Enjoy quiet walks along Camel’s Back Road during sunset.
  
• Explore Lal Tibba, the highest viewpoint — on clear days, you can even spot the distant Himalayan peaks.
  
• Shop for woolens and local sweets on Mall Road, or relax in a cute café overlooking the hills.

Best Time to Visit:

• March to June: Perfect for sightseeing and walks.
  
• September to November: Crisp weather, ideal for photography.
  
• December to February: Expect snow and cozy winter vibes!

Where to Stay:
From heritage hotels to boutique resorts with valley views, Mussoorie has options for every budget. I once stayed in a heritage cottage near Landour — surrounded by pines, with an old stone fireplace and homemade pancakes in the morning. Absolute bliss!

How to Reach These Hill Stations from Moradabad

Getting to the hills from Moradabad is surprisingly easy and that’s what makes weekend getaways here so tempting! Whether you prefer driving through scenic highways, hopping on a train, or catching a quick bus ride, there’s a smooth route waiting for you.

🚘 By Road

Most of these hill stations are connected via NH-9 and NH-87, both well-maintained and incredibly scenic. The drive from Moradabad to Nainital or Ranikhet is one of my favorites — long stretches of countryside, roadside tea stalls and views that make every kilometer worth it.

Popular Routes Include:

• Moradabad → Rampur → Haldwani → Nainital
  
• Moradabad → Kotdwar → Lansdowne
  
• Moradabad → Kashipur → Ranikhet / Almora
  
• Moradabad → Najibabad → Rishikesh → Joshimath → Auli

(Tip: Start early in the morning to avoid traffic and enjoy the sunrise on the way!)

🚉 By Train

Moradabad Junction is a major railway hub, making it super convenient to reach the Kumaon hills by train.

• Take a train to Kathgodam, the nearest railhead to Nainital, Bhimtal, Almora and Ranikhet.
  
• From Kathgodam, shared taxis and local buses run regularly to nearby hill towns.
  
• For Mussoorie and Auli, you can take a train to Dehradun or Haridwar and continue by road.

🚌 By Bus or Taxi

Both Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC) and private operators run daily buses from Moradabad to:

• Nainital (4–5 hrs)
  
• Ranikhet (6 hrs)
  
• Almora (7 hrs)
  
• Mussoorie (8 hrs)

Taxis are also available from Moradabad for personalized, flexible travel — perfect if you’re traveling in a group or planning multiple stops.

✈️ By Air

• Pantnagar Airport (100 km from Nainital) – Ideal for reaching Kumaon hills like Nainital, Bhimtal, Almora and Ranikhet.
  
• Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (200 km) – Best for Garhwal destinations like Mussoorie, Lansdowne and Auli.

Both airports have taxi and bus connections to nearby hill towns.

Suggested Itineraries

If you are like me and always dream of squeezing in “just one more trip,” these easy itineraries will help you plan the perfect hill escape from Moradabad whether you have just two days or a long weekend to spare.

2-Day Weekend Trip: Nainital & Bhimtal Bliss

Day 1:
Start early from Moradabad (around 6:00 AM) and drive through the scenic NH-87 highway toward Nainital. It takes about 4.5 hours. Once you reach, check into a lakeside hotel and head out to explore.

• Visit Naini Lake, Tiffin Top and Naina Devi Temple.
  
• Don’t miss a boat ride on the shimmering lake in the evening — it’s magical when the town lights reflect in the water.
  
• End your day with a relaxed stroll along Mall Road and maybe a hot chocolate or momos from a street stall.

Stay overnight in Nainital.

Day 2:
After breakfast, head to Bhimtal (about 45 minutes away). It’s quieter and perfect for a peaceful morning by the lake.

• Visit Bhimtal Lake, Aquarium Island and Hidimba Parvat.
  
• Enjoy a relaxed lunch at a lakeside café before driving back to Moradabad by evening.

(Tip: Leave Bhimtal by 3 PM to reach Moradabad before dark.)

3-Day Long Weekend: Almora, Ranikhet & Mukteshwar

Day 1:
Kick off your road trip early from Moradabad toward Almora (around 7 hours). Once there, settle into a mountain-view homestay and explore the town’s serene charm.

• Visit Kasar Devi Temple — a calm and spiritual spot with panoramic views of the Himalayas.
  
• Take a slow walk through Bright End Corner at sunset — the golden hues here are unforgettable.

Stay overnight in Almora.

Day 2:
Head out on a scenic day trip to Ranikhet (around 2 hours each way).

• Stop by Chaubatia Gardens and Jhula Devi Temple.
  
• Don’t miss the Himalayan views from Majkhali — perfect for a picnic!
  Return to Almora by evening.

Stay overnight in Almora.

Day 3:
Drive back toward Moradabad, taking the Mukteshwar scenic route.

• Visit Mukteshwar Temple and Chauli ki Jali for sweeping views and cool mountain breezes.
  
• Stop at a roadside dhaba for lunch before descending back to the plains.

You will be back home by night with a camera full of memories and a heart full of peace.

Wrapping Up

After visiting these hill stations near Moradabad, I’ve realized something beautiful — every mountain town has its own rhythm. Some hum with laughter and café chatter like Mussoorie while others whisper in the wind through pine trees like Lansdowne or Ranikhet.

Whether you are chasing snowflakes in Auli, soaking in sunsets at Kausani or enjoying lakeside moments in Nainital, the magic of the hills never fades. Each trip feels like hitting a pause button on life — a breath of peace between all the noise.

And the best part? These hill stations are so close to Moradabad that you don’t need a long holiday. A weekend is often enough to refresh your mind, refill your heart and remind yourself of the simple joy of travel.

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