10 Oldest Hill Stations in India Established by the British

28/MARCH/ 2025

Shimla, Himachal Pradesh (1819)

Once the summer capital of British India, Shimla is renowned for its colonial architecture, bustling Mall Road, and the iconic toy train.

Photo Credit :: Google

Darjeeling, West Bengal (1828)

Originally set up as a sanatorium, Darjeeling is now famous for its sprawling tea plantations and the UNESCO-listed Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.

Photo Credit :: Google

Mussoorie, Uttarakhand (1823)

Dubbed the ‘Queen of Hills,’ Mussoorie was a favorite retreat for British officers, offering stunning views and a pleasant climate.

Photo Credit :: Google

Nainital, Uttarakhand (1841)

Established for its scenic beauty and cool weather, Nainital is known for its picturesque Naini Lake and colonial heritage.

Photo Credit :: Google

Ooty, Tamil Nadu (1821)

The first British hill station in South India, Ooty is celebrated for its lush tea gardens, scenic Nilgiri Mountain Railway, and misty landscapes.

Photo Credit :: Google

Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu (1845)

Originally built as a sanitarium for missionaries, Kodaikanal remains a peaceful retreat with attractions like Coaker’s Walk, Kodai Lake, and Pillar Rocks.

Photo Credit :: Google

Matheran, Maharashtra (1850)

India’s smallest and only vehicle-free hill station, Matheran is known for its serene viewpoints, Charlotte Lake, and the Neral-Matheran toy train.

Photo Credit :: Google

Mount Abu, Rajasthan (1857)

The only hill station in Rajasthan, Mount Abu served as a British cantonment and is home to Nakki Lake, Dilwara Temples, and Guru Shikhar.

Photo Credit :: Google

Coonoor, Tamil Nadu (1854)

A quieter alternative to Ooty, Coonoor is cherished for its vast tea estates, colonial-era charm, and breathtaking views of the Nilgiri Hills.

Photo Credit :: Google

Lansdowne, Uttarakhand (1887)

A hidden British-era cantonment town, Lansdowne retains its old-world charm with pristine forests and colonial architecture.

Photo Credit :: Google

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