10 lesser-known hill stations in Himachal and Uttarakhand to explore this summer

Tired of the same old Manali and Mussoorie crowd drama? Wish your mountain escape is without traffic jams, Instagram hordes, and overpriced maggi? We have some suggestions for you, as the Himalayas are hiding some chilled-out gems that haven’t made it to every travel brochure (yet). If you are interested, here's a list of 10 lesser-known hill stations in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh that are perfect for travellers who like their hills with a side of peace and a sprinkle of surprise.

Imagine sipping chai while the snow-draped Nanda Devi and Panchachuli peaks make for the beautiful backdrop. Welcome to Chaukori – a sleepy hamlet in Kumaon where clouds casually roll into your balcony, and might feel that you can actually touch them. No clubs, no chaos. Just crisp air and chirping birds.

This one's like that indie movie everyone should be watching. Jibhi has wooden cottages, riverside trails, secret waterfalls, and zero pretentiousness. The vibe? Laid-back backpacker meets Himalayan fairy tale.

Often called the "Little Kashmir," Munsyari is perfect for those who crave untamed, off-the-map mountains. Picture sprawling meadows, the elusive chance of spotting a snow leopard, and treks that reward every breathless step with breathtaking views.

Just a stone’s throw from Jibhi, Shoja is a forest-wrapped village with misty mornings and starry nights. Bring a book, forget Wi-Fi, and let pine-scented peace reboot your soul.

This one’s so under-the-radar, even your GPS might give up. Khirsu offers panoramic Himalayan views without the crowd. Bonus: ancient temples, apple orchards, and zero honking.

Tucked in Kinnaur, Kalpa is where the mountains are draped in snow, and are complemented with monasteries, myth, and majestic Kinner Kailash in the background. It’s like a postcard coming into real life and you don’t want to leave any time soon.

Bird nerds, assemble! Pangot near Nainital is a feathered paradise where over 500 species show off their plumage. It’s basically a silent disco for birdwatchers with binoculars instead of beats.

Less “hill station,” more “untamed valley,” Tirthan is for the trout-fishing, stargazing, hike-loving sort. A paradise for anyone whose idea of luxury is a bonfire under a billion stars.

An ancient capital turned wildlife sanctuary, Binsar is where deodar forests hum lullabies. Trek to Zero Point, spot leopards, and channel your inner mountaintop poet.

If you are interested, here's a list of 10 lesser-known hill stations in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh that are perfect for travellers who like their hills with a side of peace and a sprinkle of surprise.