Gujarat, widely known for its rich heritage, vibrant culture, and bustling cities, may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about hill stations. Yet, the state offers some hidden elevated retreats that provide refreshing escapes with stunning natural beauty, serene climates, and unique cultural experiences. From the Sahyadri ranges in the Dang district to the sacred peaks near Junagadh, Gujarat’s hill stations are increasingly attracting travelers who seek cool weather, adventure, spirituality, and picturesque landscapes. Here are the top five hill stations in Gujarat to explore for an unforgettable getaway.
1. Saputara: Gujarat’s Only Official Hill Station
Saputara, located in the Dang district of South Gujarat, is the most popular and only officially recognized hill station in the state. Situated at an altitude of about 1,000 meters, Saputara Hill Station offers cool climate and a scenic environment with rolling hills, lush forests, flower-filled meadows, and misty mornings. The natural beauty of Saputara is complemented by attractions such as Saputara Lake, ideal for peaceful boating; Sunset Point, where one can enjoy mesmerizing views of the sun dipping behind the Sahyadri hills; and Table Point, a flat hilltop that offers panoramic vistas, perfect for leisurely walks or stargazing.
Visitors can also enjoy the ropeway ride offering aerial views of the gorgeous landscape, the Step Garden with its terraced foliage, and the cultural experience of the Artists Village showcasing local tribal art. Saputara is accessible by road from Surat, Ahmedabad, and nearby railway stations, making it perfect for family outings and nature lovers looking to escape the city heat.
2. Don Hill Station: The Untouched Tribal Retreat
Don Hill Station, near Saputara in the Dang district, is an emerging hidden gem often regarded as Gujarat’s highest elevation point, roughly at 1,000 meters above sea level. Unlike commercialized hill stations, Don is a pristine and tranquil destination deeply connected to the tribal cultures of the Bhil and Kunbi communities who inhabit the region. The place offers an authentic “walking with the clouds” experience as it is largely undeveloped with no flashy resorts or malls, ideal for visitors seeking peace in nature.
The hill station is famous for stunning sunrise and sunset views along with magical evenings illuminated by fireflies under a clear night sky. Trekking enthusiasts can explore various forest trails surrounded by biodiversity, while cultural tourists can enjoy witnessing tribal traditions, cuisines, and warm hospitality. Don’s remoteness requires an adventurous spirit, as access is mainly via local transport from nearby towns.
3. Girnar Hills: The Spiritual Peak of Gujarat
Girnar Hills, near Junagadh in western Gujarat, is not only a hill station but also one of the most revered spiritual destinations in the state. The hill stands tall at about 1,031 meters and is famous for its temples and pilgrimage sites significant to both Hindus and Jains. The toughest yet most rewarding way to reach the summit is by climbing approximately 9,999 steps, a trek that can take anywhere from 3 to 6 hours depending on the pace.
The journey to Girnar Hill is filled with spiritual ambience, temple bells, and chants, making it a profoundly moving experience. Must-visit temples include the Jain Neminath Temple and the Hindu Ambaji Temple—both set amidst breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. For travelers interested in faith tourism combined with trekking, Girnar offers a unique blend of devotion, history, and nature.
4. Pavagadh Hill: Heritage and Hilltop Temples
Pavagadh Hill in the Panchmahal district near Champaner is a distinctive hill station combining natural beauty with rich cultural and religious heritage. The hill, reaching around 800 meters in elevation, is part of the extinct volcanic hill range and is famous for the Kalika Mata Temple, a revered Shakti Peetha attracting pilgrims year-round.
Visitors often take the scenic ropeway ride up the hill offering panoramic views or choose to hike the over 800 steps to the temple. The surrounding Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for medieval forts, mosques, and Jain temples, making the visit to Pavagadh a captivating mix of trekking, spirituality, and history wrapped in nature’s charm. The monsoon season enhances the beauty of the misty hills and lush greenery.
5. Wilson Hills: The Lesser-Known Coastal Hill Retreat
Wilson Hills, located near Dharampur town in the Valsad district, is a lesser-known but equally captivating hill station in Gujarat. It lies at an elevation of about 750 meters and is named after a British governor from colonial times. What sets Wilson Hills apart is its unique positioning that allows views stretching out to the Arabian Sea on one side and verdant hill slopes on the other.
This isolated hill station is perfect for hiking, nature walks, and picnics. The trek to the nearby Marble Rocks and visits to the Pangarbari Wildlife Sanctuary add to its appeal for adventure seekers and wildlife enthusiasts. Wilson Hills’ cool climate and relatively low tourist footfall make it a peaceful place for a quiet retreat from city life.
Conclusion
These top five hill stations in Gujarat—Saputara, Don Hill Station, Girnar Hills, Pavagadh Hill, and Wilson Hills—offer diverse experiences ranging from family-friendly scenic escapes, tribal cultural immersion, sacred spiritual journeys, heritage exploration, to secluded nature retreats. Each hill station presents its own charm with unique landscapes, traditions, and activities, making Gujarat a surprising yet delightful destination for hill station lovers within India.
Whether it is boating on the serene lake at Saputara, trekking through tribal villages at Don, climbing the steps to ancient temples on Girnar, enjoying the panoramic views at Pavagadh, or exploring the less trodden trails at Wilson Hills, Gujarat’s hill stations promise refreshing climates and memorable adventures for every traveller.
