10 Best Hill Stations Near Chandigarh for a Relaxing Weekend Trip
Looking for the best hill stations near Chandigarh for a quick escape? You’re in luck—Chandigarh sits at the gateway to the Shivalik and lower Himalayas, making weekend getaways effortless. Whether you’re craving misty pine forests, colonial charm, or adventure parks and cable cars, you’ll find options for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. This guide rounds up hill stations around Chandigarh—from popular classics to offbeat gems—so you can plan road trips, pick the best time to visit, and match each destination to your vibe and budget. Ready to trade city buzz for cool mountain air? Let’s start exploring.
I’ll expand each hill station with distance, best time to visit, attractions, food, shopping, and travel highlights so that your readers get a complete travel guide.
Top Hill Stations Near Chandigarh Within 100–200 KM
1. Shimla – The Queen of Hills
Distance from Chandigarh: ~112 km (3.5–4 hours by road)
Best Time to Visit: March–June (pleasant weather), December–February (snowfall).
Attractions: Mall Road, Ridge, Jakhoo Temple, Christ Church, Kufri (for adventure).
Food: Try Himachali delicacies like Sidu, Madra, Chha Gosht, along with hot momos and street-side Maggi.
Shopping: Lakkar Bazaar for wooden crafts, Tibetan Market for woolens, Mall Road for souvenirs.
👉 Ideal for family-friendly trips and romantic getaways near Chandigarh.
2. Kasauli – A Peaceful Retreat
Distance from Chandigarh: ~60 km (2 hours by road)
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year, especially March–November.
Attractions: Monkey Point, Gilbert Trail, Christ Church, Sunset Point.
Food: Enjoy Kasauli’s bakery goods (plum cakes, pies), Tibetan momos, and pahadi chai.
Shopping: Small markets for handicrafts, woolens, and local fruit wines.
👉 Perfect for a short weekend trip from Chandigarh with a calm and romantic vibe.
(Check the official Himachal Pradesh Tourism site for updated travel guidelines.) For a deeper dive, see our Best Things To Do In Chiang Mai, Thailand
3. Solan – The Mushroom City of India
Distance from Chandigarh: ~67 km (2 hours by road)
Best Time to Visit: February–June, September–November.
Attractions: Mohan Shakti National Park, Jatoli Shiv Temple, Solan Brewery.
Food: Popular for mushroom-based dishes, Himachali thali, and Tibetan food.
Shopping: Local bazaars selling pickles, jams, woolens, and handicrafts.
👉 A budget-friendly hill station near Chandigarh with cultural and natural charm.
4. Morni Hills – Haryana’s Hidden Gem
Distance from Chandigarh: ~45 km (1.5 hours)
Best Time to Visit: October–March (ideal weather for trekking and picnics).
Attractions: Morni Lake, Tikkar Taal, adventure trails.
Food: Mostly roadside dhabas serving parathas, rajma-chawal, and chai.
Shopping: Not a shopping hub—better for nature and outdoor lovers.
👉 Best for offbeat travelers and nature enthusiasts looking for peace close to Chandigarh.
5. Barog – A Quiet Hill Escape
Distance from Chandigarh: ~60 km (2 hours)
Best Time to Visit: March–October.
Attractions: Barog Tunnel (longest on Kalka-Shimla route), pine forests, camping sites.
Food: Small cafes serving Maggi, pakoras, Himachali dishes, and bakery items.
Shopping: Very limited—ideal for those who prefer nature over markets.
👉 Great for solo trips, camping, and photography lovers.
6. Chail – The Untouched Hill Beauty
Distance from Chandigarh: ~106 km (3 hours)
Best Time to Visit: April–June (pleasant), December–January (snow).
Attractions: Chail Palace, Kali Ka Tibba, highest cricket ground in the world.
Food: Enjoy Himachali dishes like Chana Madra, Tudkiya Bhat, along with North Indian food in local dhabas.
Shopping: Local shops sell handicrafts, woolens, and handmade souvenirs.
👉 Ideal for romantic couples and families seeking less-crowded places near Shimla.
7. Parwanoo – The Timber Trail Adventure
Distance from Chandigarh: ~35 km (1 hour)
Best Time to Visit: March–November.
Attractions: Timber Trail (famous cable car ride), fruit orchards, Cactus Garden nearby.
Food: Try juicy peaches, plums, and apples, plus dhaba food along the highway.
Shopping: Fruit products, pickles, wines, and handcrafted goods.
👉 Best for adventure seekers and day trips from Chandigarh.
8. Kufri – Adventure Lover’s Paradise
Distance from Chandigarh: ~130 km (4 hours)
Best Time to Visit: December–February (snow activities), April–June (pleasant weather).
Attractions: Kufri Fun World, skiing, horse rides to Mahasu Peak, Himalayan Zoo.
Food: Maggi stalls, momos, and hot soup to beat the chill.
Shopping: Local shops selling woolens, caps, and Tibetan souvenirs.
👉 Perfect for families with kids and adventure lovers.
9. Nahan – A Small Hill Town in Himachal
Distance from Chandigarh: ~85 km (2.5 hours)
Best Time to Visit: September–March.
Attractions: Renuka Lake, Jaitak Fort, Rani Tal.
Food: Simple Himachali dishes, thalis, and local sweets.
Shopping: Local bazaars for handicrafts and woolens.
👉 A peaceful and spiritual retreat away from the crowds.
10. Shoghi – Offbeat Gem Near Shimla
Distance from Chandigarh: ~110 km (3.5 hours)
Best Time to Visit: March–June and September–November.
Attractions: Tara Devi Temple, Kandaghat, forests for camping/trekking.
Food: Fresh fruit-based dishes, Himachali cuisines, and homemade pickles.
Shopping: Local jams, jellies, wines, and organic produce.
👉 A great option for offbeat travelers who love homestays and raw nature.
Weekend Getaways & Road Trips from Chandigarh
When it comes to quick weekend getaways from Chandigarh, the city enjoys a perfect geographical advantage. Surrounded by the Shivalik hills and located just a few hours from Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Haryana, Chandigarh opens the door to several scenic hill stations and charming towns. Whether you’re planning a romantic holiday, an adventure-filled road trip, or a family outing, there are countless options to explore within 100–200 km.
Short Road Trips from Chandigarh
For those with limited time, short road trip destinations from Chandigarh include Morni Hills, Kasauli, and Parwanoo Timber Trail. All within two hours, these places are perfect if you just want to escape city life without spending long hours on the road. Morni Hills is a hidden gem of Haryana with trekking trails and lakes, while Kasauli is known for its colonial charm and sunset points. Parwanoo, on the other hand, is popular for its Timber Trail cable car ride and fruit orchards, making it an exciting adventure spot.
Family-Friendly Weekend Trips
Travelers searching for family-friendly hill stations around Chandigarh will love Shimla, Kufri, and Solan. Shimla, often called the “Queen of Hills,” is a favorite for families thanks to its Mall Road, Ridge, and toy train rides. Just a short drive from Shimla is Kufri, an adventure paradise offering horse riding, skiing, and fun parks that kids adore. Solan, also known as the “Mushroom City of India,” is calm, budget-friendly, and filled with cultural landmarks like the Jatoli Shiv Temple and Mohan Shakti Heritage Park.
Romantic Weekend Getaways
If you’re planning a cozy escape, there are several romantic hill stations near Chandigarh for couples. Chail, with its royal palace and quiet forests, offers complete seclusion away from crowded tourist hubs. Barog, a quaint town on the Kalka-Shimla railway line, is another great option for couples who love camping under the stars. Kasauli also tops the list of romantic road trips thanks to its scenic walking trails and serene environment.
Adventure-Filled Trips
For thrill seekers, Chandigarh is the perfect starting point for adventure destinations near Chandigarh. Kufri offers skiing in winter and toboggan rides for adrenaline lovers. Parwanoo Timber Trail is a favorite for its cable car rides and mountain views. For trekkers and nature lovers, Morni Hills offers a combination of adventure and peaceful surroundings, ideal for a one-day trip.
Best Time to Plan a Weekend Trip
The best time to visit hill stations near Chandigarh depends on your travel goals. Summer (April–June) is ideal for escaping the heat and enjoying cool weather in Shimla, Kasauli, and Chail. Winter (December–February) is perfect for those who want to experience snowfall in Kufri or Shimla. Monsoons (July–September) add greenery and charm, especially in Solan and Morni Hills, though road conditions can be tricky.
Why Choose Hill Stations Around Chandigarh for Road Trips?
The beauty of planning weekend trips from Chandigarh to Himachal or Haryana is the flexibility. With so many hill stations within a few hours’ drive, you can easily pick a destination based on your mood—be it adventure, romance, family fun, or solitude. From offbeat hill stations near Chandigarh like Shoghi and Nahan to popular hubs like Shimla and Kufri, every road trip brings something new.
Best Time to Visit Hill Stations Near Chandigarh
One of the biggest advantages of living in or visiting Chandigarh is its close proximity to the hills. But the question every traveler asks is: what is the best time to visit hill stations near Chandigarh? The answer depends on what kind of experience you are looking for—be it pleasant summer weather, snowy adventures, or misty monsoon escapes.
Summer (April–June) – Perfect for Escaping the Heat
The beauty of planning weekend trips from Chandigarh to Himachal or Haryana is the flexibility. With so many hill stations within a few hours’ drive, you can easily pick a destination based on your mood—be it adventure, romance, family fun, or solitude. From offbeat hill stations near Chandigarh like Shoghi and Nahan to popular hubs like Shimla and Kufri, every road trip brings something new.
Monsoon (July–September) – Green Escapes
The best time to visit hill stations near Chandigarh depends on your travel goals. Summer (April–June) is ideal for escaping the heat and enjoying cool weather in Shimla, Kasauli, and Chail. Winter (December–February) is perfect for those who want to experience snowfall in Kufri or Shimla. Monsoons (July–September) add greenery and charm, especially in Solan and Morni Hills, though road conditions can be tricky.
Autumn (October–November) – Calm & Pleasant
The beauty of planning weekend trips from Chandigarh to Himachal or Haryana is the flexibility. With so many hill stations within a few hours’ drive, you can easily pick a destination based on your mood—be it adventure, romance, family fun, or solitude. From offbeat hill stations near Chandigarh like Shoghi and Nahan to popular hubs like Shimla and Kufri, every road trip brings something new.
Winter (December–February) – Snow Lovers’ Paradise
The best time to visit hill stations near Chandigarh depends on your travel goals. Summer (April–June) is ideal for escaping the heat and enjoying cool weather in Shimla, Kasauli, and Chail. Winter (December–February) is perfect for those who want to experience snowfall in Kufri or Shimla. Monsoons (July–September) add greenery and charm, especially in Solan and Morni Hills, though road conditions can be tricky.
In short, the best time to visit hill stations near Chandigarh depends on your travel mood—summer for pleasant holidays, monsoon for greenery, autumn for calm getaways, and winter for snow adventures.
Travel Tips & FAQs About Hill Stations Near Chandigarh
Planning a trip to the mountains is exciting, but having the right information helps make your journey smoother. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about hill stations near Chandigarh, along with helpful travel tips.
1. Which hill stations are closest to Chandigarh?
The closest hill stations are Kasauli (60 km), Morni Hills (45 km), Barog (60 km), and Parwanoo Timber Trail (35 km). These destinations are perfect for short road trip destinations from Chandigarh and can be explored within a day or a quick weekend.
2. Hill stations near Chandigarh within 100 km?
If you’re searching for hill stations near Chandigarh within 100 km, the best choices include:
Kasauli – known for its colonial charm and Gilbert Trail.
Morni Hills – Haryana’s only hill station, perfect for nature lovers.
Barog – a peaceful retreat famous for its tunnel and pine forests.
Parwanoo – popular for Timber Trail and fruit orchards.
3. What are the family-friendly hill stations around Chandigarh?
For family-friendly hill stations around Chandigarh, top picks are:
Shimla – with Mall Road, toy train, and Ridge.
Kufri – for snow activities and horse rides.
Solan – a budget-friendly option with temples and gardens.
These places offer something for every age group, making them perfect for family vacations.
4. Which are the romantic hill stations near Chandigarh for couples?
If you’re planning a romantic getaway, the romantic hill stations near Chandigarh for couples include:
Chail – peaceful, less crowded, and home to Chail Palace.
Kasauli – with beautiful sunset points and quiet cafes.
Barog – ideal for camping under the stars.
These destinations provide privacy, scenic views, and cozy experiences.
5. What are the adventure destinations near Chandigarh?
For thrill seekers, some of the best adventure destinations near Chandigarh are:
Kufri – skiing, horse riding, and snowboarding in winter.
Parwanoo Timber Trail – famous for its cable car ride.
Morni Hills – trekking trails and boating at Tikkar Taal.
6. What is the best time to visit hill stations near Chandigarh?
The best time to visit hill stations near Chandigarh depends on your preferences:
Summer (April–June): Escape the heat, ideal for Shimla, Kasauli, Solan.
Monsoon (July–September): Romantic, green landscapes in Kasauli & Nahan.
Winter (Dec–Feb): Snow lovers should head to Shimla, Kufri, or Chail.
Travel Tips for a Smooth Journey
Always check road conditions before traveling, especially in monsoon and winter.
Carry light woolens in summer and heavy jackets in winter.
For shopping, visit Shimla’s Mall Road or Solan’s local bazaars for handicrafts and souvenirs.
Try local Himachali dishes like Sidu, Madra, and Tudkiya Bhat, along with momos and Maggi stalls.
Conclusion
From the snow-clad peaks of Shimla and Kufri to the peaceful trails of Kasauli, Barog, and Morni Hills, the best hill stations near Chandigarh offer something for everyone. Whether you’re planning a family-friendly getaway, a romantic escape with your partner, or an adventure-filled weekend trip, these hill stations within 100–200 km are the perfect choice.
The beauty of living in or visiting Chandigarh is its unbeatable location—where a short road trip can transport you from bustling city life to misty mountains, pine forests, and fresh mountain air. With popular spots like Chail, Solan, Parwanoo Timber Trail, Nahan, and Shoghi, travelers have endless options to explore throughout the year.
The best time to visit hill stations near Chandigarh depends on your mood—cool summers, green monsoons, colorful autumns, or snowy winters. Each season paints the hills in a different shade of beauty.
So, pack your bags, fuel your car, and set out on an unforgettable journey. Whether it’s a quick weekend escape or a longer holiday, the hill stations around Chandigarh promise breathtaking views, warm hospitality, and memories to cherish forever.
👉 Which of these hill stations will you explore first on your next road trip from Chandigarh?
External Linking Suggestions
Mention Himachal Pradesh Tourism →
Official Himachal Tourism WebsiteMention Haryana Tourism for Morni Hills →
Haryana Tourism Official SiteFor Kufri skiing/adventure →
Incredible India – KufriFor planning routes & distances →
Google Maps – Chandigarh to Shimla