As we welcome the fall season and the shenanigans of festivities, the air quality of Delhi has deteriorated drastically. The AQI hit 475 on 4th November, 2023 which is considered severe. The Delhi government has imposed new rules and regulations to control motor traffic and pollution in Delhi. The air quality has also dipped in Mumbai with several areas reporting poor AQI. Escape from this deteriorating air and find serenity in natural retreat. In this article we bring to you several awe-inspiring hill stations that are filled with nature’s surreal beauty and refreshing air. These hill stations have good AQI which is good for your health and the beauty of towering mountains, plush greenery, romantic waterfalls and serene lakes will nurture your senses.
Hill Stations With Good AQI
Srinagar (AQI: 39)
Srinagar, a city in Jammu & Kashmir is nature’s paradise. The snow-capped mountains, fiery red and orange maple trees, calming lakes and plush flora and fauna is the captivating beauty of Srinagar. Take shikara rides on Dal Lake, enjoy panoramic views of Shalimar Bagh or take a walk at the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden.
Madikeri (AQI: 36)
Madikeri is a hill town in Karnataka. It is surrounded with lush green foliage and green capped mountains. Go for Coorg coffee and spices tour or watch the sunset at Raja’s Seat, hear the water fall in Abbey Falls or watch the exquisite beauty of Namdroling Monastery Golden Temple and Madikeri Fort.
Chikmagalur (AQI: 32)
Chikmagalur is a beautiful hill station in Karnataka. It has sprawling green fields and mountains touching the horizon. This place is a haven for adventure-seekers. Explore the wildlife regions in the Western Ghats, take a tour to the resplendent coffee plantations, do rafting in Bhadra river or see exotic animals at Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary.
Ooty (AQI: 19)
Ooty is a resort town in the Western Ghats mountains of Southern Tamil Nadu. It has a chain of hills covered with plush greenery. With lakes, gardens, parks, peaks and waterfalls this place is a delight to the eyes. Ooty is also called the ‘Switzerland of India’ because of nature’s scenic beauty and grandeur. Stay in the lap of water in the boat house, witness the horizon at Ketti Valley View Point, let the cool breeze of Emerald Lake caress your cheeks or see tigers at Mudumalai Tiger Reserve.
Gangtok (AQI: 56)
Gangtok is a popular hill station in Sikkim. This paradisiacal abode offers adrenaline pumping activities to adventure seekers. From trekking at Mt. Kanchenjunga and river rafting to paragliding and cable rides, this place has a lot to offer. Gangtok is abundant in natural beauty and has various natural attractions such as the Tsomgo Lake, Ban Jhakri falls, Tashi viewpoint and more. If you want to get lost in nature’s ethereal beauty, then Gangtok is your calling.
Shillong (AQI: 76)
Shillong is a hill station in northeast India and capital of the state of Meghalaya. Surrounded by pine trees, Shilong has picturesque locations. It has romantic waterfalls, crystal clear lakes, breathtaking green fields and exquisite museums. Indulge in a peaceful boat ride at Umiam Lake, relish the Shillong view point at Laitkor Peak, unwind yourself at the Elephant Falls or pay a visit to the Air Force Museum.
Rishikesh (AQI: 66)
Rishikesh is a city in India’s northern state of Uttarakhand. It is also a pilgrimage town and one of the holiest places for Hindus. This tranquil abode is popular for whitewater rafting, bungee jumping, mountain biking and camping along the fast-flowing Holy Ganges. Witness the most beautiful evening aarti on the banks of the river Ganga or relax your mind, body and soul at this beautiful place.
Siliguri (AQI: 83)
Siliguri is a soothing city in West Bengal. Siliguri beckons with its natural beauty. Helmed with green foliage, rich flora and fauna, this place is a tranquil retreat. This picturesque place has hills bordering the lakes, azure sky filled with heavy clouds and breathtaking hills. If you ever get a chance, don’t miss the opportunity to explore this beauty.
