Looking beyond Darjeeling? 7 offbeat hill stations in Eastern India

Darjeeling is beautiful, and we love it. It’s charming, photogenic, and yes, it has a toy train. It’s a major crowd puller, which we definitely agree with. But if you're the kind of traveller who would like to take a detour, know that Eastern India has a backpack full of lesser-known hill stations that are quieter, quirkier, and surprisingly cool. So, skip the cliché and check out these seven hidden gems for a change. (Canva)

Tucked away in the Kalimpong district, Lava is the kind of place where you might just want to live forever. At 7,200 ft, it’s not high on most tourists’ radar, which means peace, pine forests, and a whole lot of introspective moments. Visit the Neora Valley National Park if you enjoy spotting red pandas or just like being in the world. (Canva)

Situated around 80 km from Darjeeling but a universe apart in vibe, Chatakpur is an eco-village where sustainability meets serenity. Perched on a hilltop inside Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary, it has only a handful of homestays run by locals. Waking up to views of Kanchenjunga without a selfie-stick brigade around? Yes, you will get that for sure. (Wikipedia)

Located in Bankura district, Susunia isn’t your typical chilly hill station, it’s warmer, lower, and more ancient. Known for prehistoric rock inscriptions and local myths of Lord Shiva, it’s a hotspot for rock climbers, history nerds, and those looking to soak in mineral springs.

Jharkhand’s best-kept secret, Netarhat is a plateau town surrounded by dense sal forests, waterfalls, and valleys where the sun rises and sets with full cinematic drama. It was once a colonial summer retreat, and it still retains that sleepy hill-town charm, minus the overpriced souvenir shops. (Wikipedia)

Towering over Jamshedpur, the Dalma Hills are known more for elephants than for tourists. The Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary is home to these gentle giants, and if you're lucky, you might spot one crossing the trail. Add panoramic views and cool climes, and you’ve got yourself an unusual wilderness escape. (Canva)

Often dubbed the “Kashmir of Odisha,” Daringbadi sits pretty at 3,000 ft in Kandhamal district, with pine forests, coffee gardens, and even the occasional snowfall in winter. It’s the kind of place where local tribal culture meets rolling hills, without the crowds or selfie sticks. (Canva)

Who said Bihar doesn’t have hills? The Rajgir Hills are a low range steeped in history and spirituality. Once the capital of the Magadh empire, this area has connections to both Buddha and Mahavira. Ride the ropeway to Vishwa Shanti Stupa, soak in natural hot springs, or just hike the scenic trails. (Canva)