Gujarat is well known for its cultural diversity and vibrant landscapes, but it is also home to several serene hill stations that offer a tranquil escape from the heat and hustle. From popular destinations like Saputara to lesser-known gems like Malav Hill, these hill stations are perfect for travelers seeking nature, adventure, or simply a peaceful retreat.
Here’s a comprehensive list of the top 20 hill stations to visit in Gujarat, providing the perfect getaway for nature lovers, trekkers, and families alike.
1. Saputara
The most famous hill station in Gujarat, Saputara is nestled in the Dang district. Surrounded by lush greenery and waterfalls, it is an ideal spot for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy boating on Saputara Lake, visit the stunning Gira Waterfalls, or take in the scenic views from the Sunset Point.
Key Attractions:
- Saputara Lake: A perfect spot for boating and relaxation.
- Gira Waterfalls: A seasonal waterfall offering scenic beauty.
- Sunset Point: Offers breathtaking views of the sunset over the valley.
2. Wilson Hills
Located in the Valsad district, Wilson Hills is a lesser-known but beautiful hill station. It’s close to the sea and offers cool weather throughout the year. Popular for its viewpoints like Marble Chatri Point and Ozone Valley, Wilson Hills is a perfect weekend getaway.
Key Attractions:
- Shankar Waterfall
- Marble Chatri Point
- Ozone Valley
3. Don Hill Station
Don Hill Station, situated in the Dang district, is rapidly gaining popularity. It’s surrounded by green hills and offers serene nature walks. The area is still developing as a tourist destination, making it perfect for those looking for less-crowded places.
Key Attractions:
- Trekking Routes
- Nature Walks
- Scenic Views of Dang Forests
4. Pavagadh Hill
Famous for its Kalika Mata Temple, Pavagadh Hill is located in the Panchmahal district. The hill is a popular pilgrimage site and a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to the ancient Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park.
Key Attractions:
- Kalika Mata Temple
- Ropeway Ride
- Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park
5. Mount Girnar
Located in Junagadh, Mount Girnar is one of the most sacred hills in Gujarat, especially for Jains and Hindus. The hill is a great trekking destination, with its ancient temples and stunning sunrise views.
Key Attractions:
- Girnar Temples
- Trekking
- Stunning Sunrises
6. Palitana
Known for its Shatrunjaya Hills, Palitana is a spiritual retreat for Jains. The hill is home to over 800 intricately carved temples and offers spectacular views from the top. The hill station is also an important pilgrimage center for the Jain community.
Key Attractions:
- Shatrunjaya Temples
- Trekking up the Sacred Hills
- Spectacular Views of the Region
7. Dediapada
Dediapada is located in the Narmada district and is a haven for nature lovers. The area is surrounded by dense forests and waterfalls, making it ideal for eco-tourism. The nearby Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary offers an opportunity to see diverse wildlife.
Key Attractions:
- Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary
- Tatpani Hot Springs
- Dense Forest Walks
8. Zarwani Eco Campsite
If you’re looking for adventure and peace, head to Zarwani Eco Campsite in the Narmada district. It’s close to the Zarwani Waterfalls, offering eco-tourism experiences like camping, trekking, and wildlife spotting.
Key Attractions:
- Zarwani Waterfalls
- Wildlife Spotting
- Eco-Tourism Activities
9. Barda Hills
Located near Porbandar, Barda Hills is perfect for trekking and bird watching. The Barda Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a variety of species, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts.
Key Attractions:
- Barda Wildlife Sanctuary
- Trekking and Bird Watching
- Scenic Views
10. Polo Forest
Situated in the Sabarkantha district, Polo Forest is a hidden gem surrounded by lush greenery and ancient temples. The forest offers trekking trails and beautiful riverside spots, ideal for camping and photography.
Key Attractions:
- Ancient Temples
- Trekking
- River Walks
11. Jambughoda
Jambughoda is a tranquil spot in the Panchmahal district, famous for its Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary. It offers great opportunities for jungle safaris, bird watching, and trekking.
Key Attractions:
- Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary
- Trekking and Nature Walks
- Wildlife Safaris
12. Taranga Hills
Located in Mehsana, Taranga Hills is known for its ancient Jain temples and offers stunning trekking routes. It’s a spiritual and natural retreat, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys.
Key Attractions:
- Taranga Jain Temples
- Trekking Trails
- Photography Spots
13. Idar Hills
Idar Hills, located in the Sabarkantha district, is renowned for its rock formations and the ancient Idari Fort. It’s a popular destination for rock climbing and trekking, providing stunning panoramic views of the region.
Key Attractions:
- Rock Formations
- Idari Fort
- Trekking and Rock Climbing
14. Poshina
A cultural hill station located in the Sabarkantha district, Poshina is known for its rich tribal culture and scenic surroundings. Travelers can explore the traditional handicrafts of the tribal communities and visit historical temples.
Key Attractions:
- Poshina Tribal Villages
- Ancient Temples
- Aravalli Scenic Views
15. Malav Hill
Situated near Rajkot, Malav Hill is a peaceful, lesser-known destination ideal for trekking and relaxation. Its green valleys and cool breeze make it an ideal escape from city life.
Key Attractions:
- Hiking Trails
- Scenic Valley Views
- Meditation Spots
16. Vansda
Located in the Navsari district, Vansda is a charming hill station close to the Vansda National Park. Visitors can enjoy jungle safaris, nature walks, and nearby waterfalls like Gira Falls.
Key Attractions:
- Vansda National Park
- Gira Waterfalls
- Nature Walks
17. Kutch Fossil Park
Located near Kutch, the Kutch Fossil Park is an offbeat destination where visitors can explore ancient fossils and enjoy scenic hilltop views.
Key Attractions:
- Fossil Museum
- Trekking
- Wildlife Exploration
18. Mandvi Beach Hill
A unique blend of beach and hill station, Mandvi Beach Hill in the Kutch district offers scenic hilltop views of the Arabian Sea, camel rides, and water sports.
Key Attractions:
- Mandvi Beach
- Camel Rides
- Water Sports
19. Kabirvad
Kabirvad, located on the Narmada River, is an island hill station surrounded by a massive banyan tree believed to be centuries old. It’s a serene spiritual retreat with natural beauty.
Key Attractions:
- Ancient Banyan Tree
- Boat Rides on Narmada River
- Spiritual Retreats
20. Suryamal Hill
Suryamal Hill, located near the Gujarat-Maharashtra border, offers peaceful surroundings and panoramic views of the Sahyadri Range. It’s perfect for trekking, camping, and adventure sports.
Key Attractions:
- Camping and Trekking
- Panoramic Views
- Adventure Sports
Conclusion
These hill stations in Gujarat not only provide a respite from the heat but also offer numerous activities like trekking, bird watching, and camping. Whether you’re looking for spiritual solace, adventurous treks, or peaceful nature escapes, these destinations have something for everyone.