Best Hill Station to Visit in April: Shimla, Manali, or Mussoorie!

“Toh chale pahado ki peeche wali duniya me?”

April is the beginning of summer in most parts of India and that makes it the perfect time to escape to the cool and refreshing landscapes of the hills. Shimla, Manali, & Mussoorie stand out as top destinations among the most popular hill stations in North India. You must be wondering which is the best hill station to visit in April, refer to our comprehensive guide. It will help you choose the perfect destination based on climate, budget, attractions, and shopping options.

Shimla, Manali, or Mussoorie: Which One is Best?

Shimla, Manali, and Mussoorie are among the top hill stations in India with breathtaking scenery, colonial charm, adventure sports, and serene getaways. Whether you’re travelling for honeymoon, family vacation, or an adventure trip, these hill stations cater to every kind of travelers.

1. Manali

Landscape Image of Manali Covered in Snow
Image Credit: Manik Dev/Shutterstock

Manali is located in Himachal Pradesh and is surrounded by Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar ranges, dense forests, and apple orchards and offers picturesque landscape. Freeze your cheap flights to Manali and take advantage of opportunities for adventure sports like trekking, river rafting, skiing, and paragliding.

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2. Shimla

The Ridge. Old Indian post office building in shopping street Mall Road Shimla
Image Editorial Credit: Santhosh Varghese/Shutterstock

Shimla is the capital of Himachal Pradesh. Shimla is known for its deodar forests, picturesque colonial-era town with stunning architecture, scenic landscapes, and a vibrant cultural scene. Soak in the scenic charm with the lowest air tickets to Shimla and explore the Ridge, Mall Road, and Kufri.

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3. Mussoorie

Mussoorie - Queen of Hills & Waterfalls — Mussoorie – Queen of Hills & Waterfalls
Image Credit: Imagix_2__4/Shutterstock

Mussoorie is known as the “Queen of Hills,” and is blessed with waterfalls, lush greenery, and misty hills, a serene escape from city life. Take cheap flights to Mussoorie and enjoy this quaint charming hill station with British-era architecture and lush green hills. The famous Camel’s Back Road and Lal Tibba provide stunning views.

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Best Time to Visit: Manali, Mussoorie, & Shimla

Manali: Best visited between March and June for pleasant weather and adventure activities.
Shimla: The months of March to June offer mild temperatures and clear skies.
Mussoorie: Ideal for a visit in April to experience clear skies and blooming flora.

April is particularly perfect for visiting all three as the weather is pleasant, and nature is in full bloom.

Ideal Duration

Manali: 4-5 days
Shimla: 3-4 days
Mussoorie: 2-3 days

Average Budget for a Trip to Manali/Shimla/Mussoorie

1. Average Accommodation Costs:

Manali: Average accommodation costs range between INR 1,500 – INR 5,000 per night. You can always find and compare deals online and book the best hotels in Manali with charming views.
Shimla: The best hotels in Shimla with an average accommodation cost between INR 2,000 – INR 6,000 per night.
Mussoorie: Check in at the finest hotels in Mussoorie in between the stunning hills with average accommodation costs between INR 2,000 – INR 5,500 per night.

2. Meals:

Average cost: INR 500-1,500 per day per person for Manali, Shimla, and Mussoorie.

3. Sightseeing:

Manali: INR 1,000-3,000 per person per day (including entry fees & transport).
Shimla: INR 1,000 – 2,500 per person per day.
Mussoorie: INR 800 – 2,500 per person per day.

4. Average Budget Per Day:

Manali: INR 3,000 – INR 7,000
Shimla: INR 3,500 – INR 8,000
Mussoorie: INR 3,000 – INR 7,500

Best Places to Visit

There are many places to explore in Manali. Shimla, and Mussoorie, and some of the most popular are listed below! Or you can explore all-in-one with India tour packages.

Also Read: Family Vacations in Summer: Indian Escapes for Kids & Adults

Places to Visit in Manali:

Paragliding at Solang Valley with Snow cladded mountains of Dhauladhar
Image Credit: Amit kg/Shutterstock

Solang Valley – A paradise for adventure lovers, offering skiing, paragliding, and breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks.
Rohtang Pass – A high-altitude pass known for its stunning landscapes, snow activities, and panoramic Himalayan views.
Hidimba Devi Temple – A historic wooden temple dedicated to Hidimba Devi, set amidst serene cedar forests.
Manu Temple – A sacred temple dedicated to Sage Manu, offering spiritual vibes and scenic beauty.
Old Manali – A charming area with cozy cafés, vibrant markets, and a laid-back atmosphere.
Jogini Waterfall – A scenic trek leading to a mesmerizing waterfall, perfect for nature lovers and photography.

You can visit all these beautiful places with the wide range of Manali tour packages available online.

Places to Visit in Shimla:

View of Kufri, Auli village 15 Kms above Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India at sunset.
Image Credit: PhotographerIncognito/Shutterstock

The Ridge – A bustling open space in the heart of Shimla, offering stunning views of the mountains and colonial architecture.
Kufri – A popular hill station near Shimla, known for its scenic beauty, snow activities, and Himalayan Nature Park.
Jakhoo Temple – A sacred temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, located atop Jakhoo Hill with panoramic city views.
Christ Church – A historic church with neo-Gothic architecture, famous for its stained-glass windows and peaceful ambiance.
Mall Road – The hub of shopping, cafés, and vibrant street life, perfect for evening strolls.
Green Valley – A picturesque spot with lush green forests and breathtaking views, ideal for photography.

Discover the magic of Shimla with specially curated Shimla tour packages, letting you explore its stunning landscapes and charming hill stations effortlessly!

Places to Visit in Mussoorie:

Beautiful view of Kempty Falls Mussoorie India.
Image Credit: Sudip Jotshi/Shutterstock

Kempty Falls – A stunning waterfall and a popular picnic spot, perfect for a refreshing dip and scenic beauty.
Lal Tibba – The highest point in Mussoorie, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas.
Gun Hill – A famous viewpoint accessible by cable car, providing spectacular sunset views.
Camel’s Back Road – A peaceful walking trail shaped like a camel’s hump, ideal for nature lovers.
Mussoorie Lake – A serene lake perfect for boating, surrounded by lush green hills.

Grab your Mussoorie tour packages online and visit these top places in Mussoorie.

Also Read: Plantation Paradise: Best Homestay in Hill Stations in India

Best Spots for Shopping

Spots for Shopping in Manali:

Mall Road, Famous Street Market.
Image Editorial Credit: Roswel Dsouza/Shutterstock

Mall Road
Old Manali Market
Himachal Handloom and Crafts Centre
Manu Market

Spots for Shopping in Shimla:

Mall Road - a major hangout point and shopping center in Shimla, — Mall Road – a major hangout point and shopping center in Shimla
Image Editorial Credit: mrinalpal/Shutterstock

Lakkar Bazaar
The Mall Road
Tibetan Market
Lower Bazaar

Spots for Shopping in Mussoorie:

Market Library Chowk, Bazaar - Landmark on Mall Road, Mussoorie — Market Library Chowk, Bazaar – Landmark on Mall Road, Mussoorie
Image Editorial Credit: Peppy Graphics/Shutterstock

Library Bazaar
Kulri Bazaar
Landour Bazaar

Conclusion:

Each of these top hill stations in India have something special to offer. If you seek adventure and snowy peaks, Manali is your best bet. If you prefer a mix of colonial charm and natural beauty, choose Shimla. If you are looking for a peaceful getaway with stunning landscapes, Mussoorie is perfect.

Between Shimla or Mussoorie, which is better? For heritage lovers, Shimla wins.

Manali or Mussoorie, which is better for honeymoon? Manali’s scenic beauty and adventure activities make it ideal for honeymooners. Manali vs Mussoorie height? Manali (2,050m) is significantly higher than Mussoorie (2,005m), making it a cooler destination.

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FAQs – Best Hill Station to Visit in April

Which place is more beautiful Manali or Shimla?
Both are stunning in their own way! Manali offers snow-capped peaks and adventure sports, while Shimla boasts colonial charm and scenic landscapes.

Can I see snow in Manali in April?
Yes, you can find snow at higher altitudes like Rohtang Pass and Solang Valley in early April.

Which month is not good to visit Manali?
July and August are not ideal due to heavy monsoons, which can cause landslides and travel disruptions.

Where is the best place to vacation in April?
Shimla, Manali, and Mussoorie are all excellent choices for a refreshing hill station getaway in April.

Is April a good time to visit Shimla?
Yes, April offers pleasant weather, blooming flora, and clear skies, making it a perfect time to visit Shimla.

Which is the most beautiful hill station?
Beauty is subjective! Shimla, Manali, and Mussoorie are among the top contenders, each offering unique charm and attractions.

Is Shimla Queen of Hills or Mussoorie?
Mussoorie is traditionally known as the “Queen of Hills,” while Shimla is called the “Queen of the Himalayas.”

Is Mussoorie better than Dalhousie?
Mussoorie is more vibrant with a mix of adventure and colonial charm, while Dalhousie is quieter and known for its untouched beauty.

Is Shimla colder than Mussoorie?
Yes, Shimla tends to be slightly colder due to its higher altitude and proximity to the Himalayas.

Can we go Shimla and Manali together?
Absolutely! Many tour packages cover both destinations, as they are well-connected and offer a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.

Which is better, Manali or Mussoorie?
Manali is ideal for adventure lovers and snow seekers, while Mussoorie is perfect for those looking for a peaceful and scenic retreat.

Which is the Princess of hill stations?
Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu is often referred to as the “Princess of Hill Stations.”

Which is more beautiful, Mussoorie or Shimla?
Mussoorie offers misty hills and lush greenery, while Shimla charms with colonial architecture and vibrant city life – both are breathtaking!

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