The month of October is the best time to travel in India as most of the states experience mild weather that is neither too hot nor too cold. It’s time before all the winter destinations go into deep winter. So plan a trip soon. Here are some of the most uncrowded yet beautiful hill stations.

∙ Kausani, Uttarakhand

April-June and October-February are the best months to visit Kausani hill station. It is known for its stunning mountain views and serene forests. Don’t miss Kausani Tea Estate and the chance to see where the scenes of the Bollywood hit film ‘Koi Mil Gaya’ were shot. Situated at an altitude of 1890 meters above sea level, Kausani is a hidden treasure in the Kumaon region of Bageshwar district in Uttarakhand. Enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks like Trishul, Nanda Devi and Panchachuli. Situated on a hilltop adorned with pine forests, this little-known hill station is perfect for holiday travel.

∙ Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh

Have you been to the mini Switzerland of Himachal? It’s not Manali or Shimla, but a little-known hill station just a few kilometers from Dalhousie in Champa district of Himachal Pradesh. The name of this beautiful place is Khajjiar. Situated at an altitude of about 1920 meters above sea level, it gets crowded only during the season. A small lake lies in the middle of a vast meadow, and the surrounding area is like the green grass of Switzerland. It is a photographer’s paradise and tourists can enjoy sunrise and sunset here amid the beautiful weather. And opportunities for zorbing, paragliding and trekking are also provided here.

∙ Maulinong, Meghalaya

The cleanest village in India and Asia, Moulinong village is also known as God’s own garden. Along with cleanliness, a 100 percent literacy rate, a women empowerment scenario that can only be dreamed of elsewhere in the world, this small village in the country is full of diversity. The weather in Moulinong is pleasant throughout the year. But the best time to visit Maulinong in Meghalaya is monsoon. During the monsoons the village and its surroundings turn green and thus become absolutely beautiful.

∙ Lansdowne, Uttarakhand

Located in the Himalayan foothills of Uttarakhand, Lansdowne is one of the most popular hill stations in India. Formerly known as Kaladanda, Lansdowne was developed as a summer resort and a cantonment town by British Viceroy Lord Lansdowne in the 19th century. Situated at an altitude of 5200 feet above sea level, Lansdowne is an ideal holiday destination for couples and families. One of Lansdowne’s most important and popular activities is camping under the stars. Similarly, many tour companies offer jungle safaris in the heart of the jungles. There you can see Himalayan wildlife up close.

∙ Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh

Tawang is the cultural hub of Arunachal Pradesh and can be visited throughout the year. But the best time to plan a vacation is the festive season. So just look at the festival calendar of Arunachal Pradesh to enjoy the best holiday experience ever. Also the birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama, Tsangyang Gyatso, Tawang is famous for its variety of animals and natural beauty. Tipi Orchid Sanctuary is a popular tourist attraction here. The month of October is the time when snow falls in Tawang.

∙ Erkkad, Tamil Nadu

Erkkad is a hill station famous as Lake Forest. This tourist destination in Salem district can be described as Munnar of Tamil Nadu. Erkkad got its name from the Tamil word ‘yeri’, which is a combination of the word kaad. The word Yeri means lake. Erkad is 1500 meters above sea level. Also known as Yerkad, this beautiful place presents tourists with a vast array of beautiful views of coffee plantations, hills, valleys and orange groves.

∙ Chikkamagalur, Karnataka

Chikkamagalur is the first place where coffee cultivation started in India. Offering a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, Chikkamagalur is an ideal destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers and those who want to experience the rich cultural heritage of Karnataka. Known for its stunning natural beauty, Chikkamagalur is surrounded by lush green hills, coffee plantations and waterfalls. Chikkamagalur is home to many beautiful waterfalls including Hebbe Falls, Jhari Falls and Kalhatti Falls.