10 Oldest Hill Stations in India Set Up by the British
India’s hill stations are not only picturesque retreats but also serve as reminders of the country’s colonial past. Many of these serene destinations were established by the British during the colonial era as summer retreats to escape the scorching heat of the plains. Let’s explore the ten oldest hill stations in India that were set up by the British:
1. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh (1822): Known as the “Queen of Hill Stations,” Shimla was established in 1822 as the summer capital of British India. Its colonial architecture, scenic beauty, and pleasant climate continue to attract tourists from around the world.
2. Darjeeling, West Bengal (1835): Founded in 1835, Darjeeling is renowned for its tea plantations, panoramic views of the Himalayas, and the iconic Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
3. Nainital, Uttarakhand (1841): Nainital, established in 1841 by British sugar trader P. Barron, is famous for its tranquil lakes, lush forests, and stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains.
4. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand (1823): Established in 1823 by Captain Young, Mussoorie is known for its colonial charm, misty hills, and breathtaking views of the Garhwal Himalayas.
5. Ooty, Tamil Nadu (1819): Founded in 1819 by the British, Ooty, or Udhagamandalam, is celebrated for its cool climate, lush botanical gardens, and scenic tea estates.
6. Matheran, Maharashtra (1850): Established in 1850, Matheran is Asia’s only automobile-free hill station, known for its unpolluted air, panoramic views, and heritage toy train.
7. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu (1845): Established in 1845, Kodaikanal is renowned for its serene lakes, rolling hills, and dense forests, earning it the moniker “Princess of Hill Stations.”
8. Coonoor, Tamil Nadu (1819): Founded in 1819, Coonoor is a tranquil hill station known for its tea plantations, scenic beauty, and the famous Sim’s Park botanical garden.
9. Mount Abu, Rajasthan (19th century): Mount Abu, situated in the Aravalli Range, is Rajasthan’s only hill station, established by the British in the 19th century. It is famous for its temples, lakes, and scenic landscapes.
10. Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh (1854): Founded in 1854 by the British Governor-General Lord Dalhousie, this charming hill station is known for its colonial architecture, pine-clad valleys, and panoramic views of the Dhauladhar range.
Conclusion: These ten oldest hill stations in India, established by the British during the colonial era, continue to enchant visitors with their timeless charm, scenic beauty, and cool climate. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or simply a respite from the summer heat, these hill stations offer a delightful escape into nature’s embrace.
Picture Courtesy: Google/images are subject to copyright
