Best Hill Resorts Near Chandigarh: Places to Visit & Stay

Chandigarh is one of the best cities in India. Amongst the many advantages of this incredible metropolis is that besides being a union territory and the capital for both Punjab and Haryana, it is also ideally located for perusing the best Himalayan Hill Resorts. Due to its unique geography, Chandigarh residents have the luxury of driving up to some incredibly beautiful places that remain a pipe dream for other Indians.

Just 250 Kms. north of Delhi, 230 Kms. southeast of Amritsar and about 50 Kms. north of Ambala, Chandigarh is ideally located at the edge of the northern fertile plains of India and the beginnings of the Shivalik Range of the Himalayas. From here, one can reach the mountains very easily and even plan impromptu trips to the hills whenever the mood strikes.

Although Chandigarh has a pleasant climate throughout the year, the summers can get quite hot and humid. The only respite, as the British found out, was to retreat to the many beautiful hill stations and resort towns in the foothills of the mighty Himalayas, which provide a cool climate as well as a change of pace and scenery.

In this blog, we will explore how best to take advantage of this serendipitous geographic bonus for a rewarding and fun escape from Chandigarh.

About Chandigarh

Chandigarh is the first planned city that India built after independence. Perhaps due to its location and its importance, a lot of time, money and creativity were spent to make this city a model for a prosperous and beautiful post-independence India. With broad streets, organized neighborhoods and designer public spaces, it is a great place to live and to visit.

When India was partitioned, Punjab was divided into east and west Punjab. Unfortunately, the earlier capital of Punjab, Lahore went to Pakistan. To fill the void, India decided to create Chandigarh as a modern and exemplary city to govern Punjab. To do this, no expense was spared and leading international architects were commissioned.

The famous Polish architect Maciej Nowicki and American Planner Albert Mayer created the initial plans for the city. Then, the renowned Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier drew up the master plan, which included the designs for many of the iconic buildings that are still standing. The design by Le Corbusier and its execution was contemporary and clean, giving Chandigarh an international look and feel even today.

Despite its many architectural wonders and tourist attractions, residents of Chandigarh and the many visitors who come here often look for a weekend escape to rejuvenate for a few days. While there are many hill stations to the north, finding a good resort that is cold and close by can be difficult.

Seasoned travellers know that there is little to be gained from visiting a scenic place if there is no good place to stay. An idea getaway location must have an equally good resort that has all the facilities and creature comforts needed for a pleasurable stay in the mountains. A luxury Spa would be an added advantage.

Where to go

One of the best hill resorts near Chandigarh is called Moksha Himalaya Spa Resort, located only an hour and 45 minutes away. This is an elite and fashionable oasis of pampering delights, incredible food and a wellness spa that has become popular with discerning visitors from Delhi and Chandigarh. In fact, Moksha is also on the popular circuit for international travellers who come to India.

With a sprawling and lavish property located at the top of a hill, guests get stunning views of the magnificent mountains and valleys that surround this idyllic location. Not only can they enjoy the cold climate and fresh mountain air, they also have a fully stocked Wellness Center with expert Spa and Salon services.

The Moksha Himalaya Spa Resort also features a stunning infinity pool, a suspended ropeway, pristine forests and impeccable service. It is perfect for a quick getaway, weeklong escape or a longer vacation. It is also ideal for parties and destination weddings as people from Chandigarh and Delhi can attend these gatherings easily.

If you feel like stepping out, there are many places to explore around the Moksha Resort including Kasauli, which is an hour to the north. For a truly exceptional experience, one must visit Moksha at least one and for the people of Chandigarh, there is no excuse not to.