Escape to the Hills: 5 Defence-Friendly Hill Stations to Visit This Summer

This blog explores five picturesque hill stations across India, perfect for a peaceful summer retreat. From quiet army-run retreats to scenic trails and smart travel tips, it helps you plan the ideal mountain escape with ease.

Key Highlights

• Soak in colonial charm and pine-scented walks in Dalhousie—avoid the weekend rush by visiting on weekdays.
• Discover peaceful mornings and scenic trails around Wellington—carry cash as digital payment options are limited in smaller areas.
• Enjoy panoramic views and Tibetan culture in Dharamshala—pack layers as evenings remain cool even in peak summer.
• Take the toy train to Coonoor for a slow, scenic experience—book first-class seats in advance for better views and comfort.
• Wander through heritage streets and book cafés in Lansdowne—travel light and opt for homestays for a quieter, more local experience.

Summer is here, and it is the perfect time to leave behind the scorching plains for the comfort of the mountains. For members of the armed forces and their families, a summer break is not just a holiday—it is an opportunity to unwind, recharge, and reconnect.

We have handpicked five summer-friendly hill stations in India for summer that are perfect for such a getaway. These locations are secure, peaceful, and well-connected, making them ideal summer getaways for armed forces.

With udChalo’s holiday packages and exclusive defence flight bookings, planning your trip is easy, reliable, and affordable.

1. Lansdowne, Uttarakhand – A Quiet Military Escape

Why You Will Love It:

Lansdowne is a picturesque hill station nestled in the Garhwal region. It was established as a cantonment town by the British in 1887 and remains a peaceful base of the Garhwal Rifles Regimental Centre.

About the Military Base:

The town revolves around the Garhwal Rifles' headquarters, where the regimental museum showcases the valour and history of the regiment. It also maintains the local infrastructure, contributing to Lansdowne's cleanliness and orderliness.

Best Time to Visit:

April to June – pleasant days, cool evenings, and beautiful rhododendron blooms.

Hidden Gems:

• Tip-in-Top View Point
• Bhulla Tal Lake – a serene lake maintained by the army, complete with paddle boating and a small eatery
• War Memorial and Garhwal Rifles Regimental Museum – ideal for history enthusiasts

Travel Tips:

• Prefer weekdays to avoid local tourist crowds.
• Choose accommodation near the cantonment area for safety and scenic views.

2. Coonoor, Tamil Nadu – Serene South Indian Charm

Why You Will Love It:

Located in the Nilgiri hills, Coonoor is a peaceful alternative to Ooty. With sprawling tea gardens and colonial bungalows, it offers a relaxed atmosphere.

About the Military Presence:

Wellington Cantonment, adjacent to Coonoor, is home to the Defence Services Staff College (DSSC). It is one of the most prestigious institutions of the Indian Armed Forces, providing training to officers from India and friendly foreign nations.

This cantonment area is well-maintained, lush with greenery, and perfect for walks and relaxation.

Best Time to Visit:

March to May – perfect weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Hidden Gems:

• Sim’s Park – a botanical garden with over 1,000 plant species
• Dolphin’s Nose – a viewpoint with misty valley views
• Wellington Golf Course – a beautiful and historic course managed by the armed forces

Travel Tips:

• Carry light woollens for the evenings.
• Take the Nilgiri Toy Train for an old-world travel experience.

Fly into Coimbatore and connect to Coonoor with ease, book flights via udChalo.

3. Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh – Colonial Calm with Pine-Scented Air

Why You Will Love It:

Dalhousie is known for its pine-covered slopes, old churches, and relaxed charm. It is a favourite among defence personnel in the northern sector.

About the Army Connection:

Dalhousie has a small Army Base that contributes to the overall discipline and upkeep of the town. Army presence ensures clean surroundings, quiet nights, and a secure environment for families.

Nearby Dainkund Peak hosts an Indian Air Force radar station, and while access is restricted, the area around it offers stunning views and a sense of safety.

Best Time to Visit:

May to early July – clear skies and moderate temperatures.

Hidden Gems:

• Dainkund Peak – scenic trails and spectacular views
• Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary – dense deodar forests and cool walking paths
• St. John’s Church – an old-world British-era church

Travel Tips:

• Plan early visits to avoid tourist traffic.
• Use walking trails through the cantonment areas for quiet nature strolls.

Pair your Dalhousie visit with a Chamba detour using udChalo’s flexible holiday packages.

4. Shillong, Meghalaya – Scotland of the East

Why You Will Love It:

Shillong combines natural beauty with a rich tribal culture and is known for its music, waterfalls, and friendly locals. Its proximity to various army establishments makes it a defence-friendly travel destination in the Northeast.

About the Military Presence:

Shillong is home to the Assam Regimental Centre, one of the most respected infantry regiments of the Indian Army. The presence of army housing and training facilities adds a sense of safety and familiarity.

Best Time to Visit:

April to June – just before the heavy monsoon season.

Hidden Gems:

• Laitlum Canyon – a breathtaking cliff-side viewpoint
• Mawphlang Sacred Forest – rich with native flora and folklore
• Elephant Falls – a three-tiered cascade close to army accommodation areas

Travel Tips:

• Avoid visiting in July-August due to heavy rains.
• Local taxis may not use meters – negotiate fares beforehand.

5. Almora, Uttarakhand – Culture and Calm in the Kumaon Hills

Why You Will Love It:

Almora is known for its artistic heritage, panoramic views, and tranquil environment. It offers a refreshing blend of nature and tradition.

About the Military Presence:

Almora has Army transit camps and guest houses that often accommodate personnel and their families. The region is also dotted with retired defence personnel settlements, giving it a peaceful, community-oriented vibe.

Best Time to Visit:

May to June – the weather is cool, and the skies are clear.

Hidden Gems:

• Bright End Corner – stunning sunrise views over the Himalayas
• Kasar Devi Temple – a magnet for seekers and thinkers, once visited by Swami Vivekananda
• Jageshwar Dham – a spiritual site with over 100 ancient temples

Travel Tips:

• Avoid over-scheduled travel – Almora is best enjoyed slowly.
• Shop for local woollens and copperware in the town market.

Book your flight to Pantnagar through udChalo and enjoy a scenic drive to Almora.

General Travel Tips for Faujis Families

• Always carry your ID and canteen card—many places offer discounts
• Check for weather updates, especially in the hills
• Travel during the weekdays to avoid local crowding
• Light jackets are a must, even in summer
• Use official or defence-verified accommodations wherever possible

Why Choose udChalo for Your Summer Getaway?

• Specialised flight booking services for serving and retired defence personnel
• Curated holiday packages tailored to secure, peaceful locations
• Exclusive discounts on hotels, transport, and experiences
• Priority customer service for last-minute changes or support
• Access to verified stays near the cantonment and defence zones

Whether you are travelling solo, with family, or planning a group retreat, udChalo ensures safety, convenience, and value for your next hill holiday.

Answer the Call of the Mountains – Plan Your Peaceful Getaway Today

This summer, let the hills welcome you with open arms and clean mountain air. From the charm of Dalhousie to the soulful quiet of Almora, these cool places to visit in India during summer are tailor-made for our brave servicemen and women.

Book your summer-friendly escape now through udChalo, and enjoy every moment with the comfort of home away from home.

FAQs

Q1. What does it mean for a hill station to be defence-friendly?

A defence-friendly hill station either has military establishments nearby or is often frequented by armed forces personnel. These locations are secure, clean, and respectful of defence culture.

Q2. Can udChalo help plan complete holidays?

Yes. udChalo offers curated holiday packages including flights, stays, local transport, and sightseeing for defence personnel and their families.

Q3. Are discounts applicable for dependents too?

Yes. Dependents of serving or retired personnel can also avail of offers on udChalo’s platform, provided they are included in the Defence ID.

Q4. Which of these destinations is the most peaceful?

Lansdowne and Coonoor are the most serene, with less commercialisation and strong army presence ensuring a calm atmosphere.

Q5. How early should one book to avail best deals with udChalo?

It is advisable to book at least 3–4 weeks in advance for summer trips, especially around school holidays and long weekends.