Bareilly is conveniently linked to some of the most beautiful hill stations in North India, making it an ideal location for short trips or vacations. If you want to enjoy snowfall or relax at a peaceful lake in the hills, there are plenty of destinations within a few hours’ drive. Here is a list of six top places to go near Bareilly.
1. Mussoorie – The Queen of the Hills
Mussoorie, located in Uttarakhand, is one of the most well-known hill stations of the country. It is renowned for its pleasant weather and stunning mountainous views. The Garhwal Himalayas surround the place and are full of tourists throughout the year.
The tourists must visit Mall Road for shopping and enjoying local food, Gun Hill for the panoramic view of the Himalayas, Mussoorie Lake for boating, and Lal Tibba, the highest point in town. The adventure-loving tourists can also enjoy trekking, zip-lining, and nature walking in the area.
Distance from Bareilly: About 331 km (8-9 hours)
2. Almora – A Blend of Nature and Heritage
Almora is situated in the Kumaon area of Uttarakhand, renowned for its rich cultural splendor, stunning architecture, and breathtaking sights of the colossal Himalayas. Almora is unique because it offers a peaceful atmosphere and many choices to see and do various activities.
Among the sites of Almora worth visiting, we can mention Nanda Devi Temple, one of the best places to see the sunset – Bright End Corner, Kasar Devi Temple, Chitai Golu Devta Temple, the temple dedicated to justice.
Distance from Bareilly: About 190 km and a road journey of 5 to 6 hours.
3. Bhimtal – Another Quiet Destination with Natural Beauty
Bhimtal is a nice little hill town located around the big and gorgeous Bhimtal Lake and is ideal for couples, family trips, or nature lovers. Compared to similar places like Nainital, this town is quieter and less crowded.
Places to visit include Bhimtal Island Aquarium, Victoria Dam, and exploring other temples in the town. The hills around Bhimtal Lake open up many great hiking, bird watching, and photography options. The weather is favorable throughout the year, so this makes Bhimtal a perfect holiday destination.
Distance from Bhimtal: Around 128 km, that’s about a 3-4-hour drive by road.
4. Chamba – A Historic Himalayan Town
Chamba in Himachal Pradesh is known for its old temples, colonial architecture, and beautiful valleys. This town has a lot of history and has retained its old-world charm with beautiful mountain views.
Some of the important places to see in Chamba include the Bhuri Singh Museum — which contains historical items of great note, the Akhand Chandi Palace, Champavati Temple, and Chamunda Devi Temple. In addition, people can visit the nearby villages and trek for fun.
Distance from Bareilly: About 846 kms, so it takes nearly fifteen hours to reach there, making it a good option for long trips.
5. Chail: A Quiet Hill Station
Chail is a quiet hill station in Himachal Pradesh; it’s much quieter than crowded places like Shimla. Chail is encircled by dense pine forests and beautiful scenery, which is why it is suitable for travelers who like watching nature.
Main attractions: Chail Palace, Chail Wildlife Sanctuary, Sidh Baba Ka Mandir, Kali Tibba Temple, Chail Gurudwara Sahib. The top cricket ground in the world is situated here as well.
The best time to visit is November to March when the weather will be fine, and the hills will become picturesque.
6. Kausani – The Switzerland of India
Kausani, renowned as the Switzerland of India, is popular for its spectacular sights of the heights of Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Panchachuli. It provides peace amidst green and soft hills for nature lovers.
Famous attractions in Kausani include Anasakti Ashram (visited by Mahatma Gandhi), the Kausani Tea Estate, Rudradhari Waterfall, Kausani Observatory (ideal for stargazing), among many others. Visitors can also find many sunrise points, natural trails, and get their hands on handmade articles in the area.
Bareilly to Kausani: approximately 241 km.
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