3 min readNew DelhiApr 18, 2026 03:00 PM ISTEscape the city heat and head to these cool destinations! (Image: Freepik)When the heat wave starts tightening its grip on Delhi in May, even stepping outside can feel exhausting. That’s when the idea of a quick escape to the hills suddenly feels less like a luxury and more like a necessity. The good news is—you don’t have to travel too far. Just a few hours from the capital are some of India’s most beautiful hill stations, where cooler air, green landscapes, and slower days offer instant relief from the heat.1. MussoorieMussoorie is one of the most popular summer getaways near Delhi, often called the “Queen of the Hills.” Located in Uttarakhand, it offers sweeping views of the Doon Valley, lively streets, and a refreshing climate in May, making outdoor strolls enjoyable again.Best places to visit: Kempty Falls, Mall Road, Gun Hill, Camel’s Back Road.2. NainitalNainital is a lake town surrounded by forested hills, offering a perfect blend of calm waters and cool mountain air. It’s especially popular for boating, ropeway rides, and scenic viewpoints that stay pleasant even during peak summer.Best places to visit: Naini Lake, Snow View Point, Naina Devi Temple, Tiffin Top.3. ShimlaShimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh, combines colonial-era charm with pine-covered hills and bustling markets. Even in May, the evenings remain comfortably cool, making it a reliable summer escape.Best places to visit: Mall Road, The Ridge, Jakhoo Temple, Kufri.Story continues below this adAlso Read | The ultimate budget guide to Bir Billing4. LansdowneLansdowne is a quieter alternative for travellers who want peace over crowds. This small cantonment town is known for its clean air, oak forests, and slow pace of life—ideal for a restful break from city heat.Best places to visit: Bhulla Tal Lake, Tip-in-Top Viewpoint, War Memorial, St. Mary’s Church.5. DharamshalaDharamshala sits in the lap of the Dhauladhar range and offers a refreshing mix of mountain views, Tibetan culture, and cool breezes. Its upper region, McLeod Ganj, is especially loved by travellers looking for both nature and calm.Best places to visit: McLeod Ganj, Dalai Lama Temple Complex, Bhagsu Waterfall, Triund Trek. For more lifestyle news, click here to join our WhatsApp Channel and also follow us on Instagram© IE Online Media Services Pvt LtdTags:hill stationAdvertisementLoading Recommendations...Live BlogRCB vs DC Live Score, IPL 2026: Royal Challengers Bengaluru chase repeat this season2 minutes agoUS Iran War News Live Updates: Tehran reimposes restrictions on Hormuz, accusing US of violating deal10 minutes agoBhoot Bangla Box Office Collection Day 1 LIVE Updates: Akshay Kumar-starrer earns Rs 23.9 cr, makes twice of Sky Force14 minutes agoDhurandhar 2 Worldwide Box Office Collection Day 30 Live Updates: Ranveer Singh-starrer drops to Rs 2.7 cr on 5th Friday, earns Rs 1,741.73 cr worldwide29 minutes agoAssembly Elections 2026 Live Updates: Fadnavis targets Mamata over migration, denies attacks on Bengali migrants3 hours ago