Best Hill Stations in India to Visit With Your Dog

Nikita Kanyal | Apr 19, 2025, 21:03 IST
Why should humans have all the fun in the hills? It’s time to pack your bags and your dog’s leash because India is home to some breathtaking pet-friendly hill stations where your furry friend can run, sniff, and snooze with mountain views. From the snow-kissed charm of Manali to the coffee-scented trails of Coorg, these scenic escapes welcome wagging tails with open arms. Discover hidden cottages, forest treks, and dog-loving hosts that turn your vacation into a pawfect getaway. If you're not traveling with your dog, are you even living right?
Tired of leaving your furry friend behind every time you escape the city heat? Imagine sipping chai on a misty hillside while your dog rolls in the grass, wagging their tail like it’s the best day ever. Well, dream no more! From Himachal to the Nilgiris, India’s hills are calling and your dog can come too.

Here's a pawsome list of the best hill stations in India that welcome wagging tails, wet noses, and endless cuddles. Don’t leave your dog behind this vacation bring them along for the ride!

1. Manali, Himachal Pradesh – For Snow & Snuggles

Manali isn’t just for honeymooners and backpackers it’s a winter wonderland for dogs too! The wide-open meadows, pet-friendly cafes, and riverside trails make it a doggo dreamland. Solang Valley and Old Manali are especially scenic and welcoming for those early morning paw walks.

Pet Perk: Many homestays like The Dog on the Hill and boutique cottages in Naggar happily accommodate pets and even offer home-cooked meals for your furry buddy.

2. Munnar, Kerala – Where Tea Gardens Meet Tail Wagging

Tea-scented air, winding roads, and rolling hills Munnar is postcard-perfect. And guess what? It’s also pup-approved! Dogs love exploring the lush trails between tea estates and lounging in the cool breeze.

Pet Perk: Stays like Tea Harvester and Windermere Estate allow pets and provide massive open spaces for sniffing and exploring. Just make sure to keep your dog on a leash near plantations.

3. Coorg, Karnataka – The Scotland of India for Dogs

Coorg’s coffee estates and gentle hills make it a four-legged paradise. Think long scenic drives, forest treks, and pet-friendly homestays nestled in nature. Your dog will love the fresh air, open grounds, and playtime with local farm animals.

Pet Perk: Coorg Wilderness Resort and many private cottages are pet-welcoming. Some even provide pet beds and bowls upon request!

4. Ranikhet, Uttarakhand – Offbeat, Peaceful, Pawfect

Skip the touristy chaos of Nainital and head to Ranikhet, where silence speaks louder than selfies. With pine forests, peaceful trails, and barely-there crowds, this is one of the best places to relax and reconnect with your dog by your side.

Pet Perk: Quirky stays like Chevron Rosemount and Soulitude in the Himalayas are pet-friendly and surrounded by nature walks.

5. Ooty, Tamil Nadu – Tail-Wagging in the Nilgiris

Ooty is all charm, mist, and colonial-era cuteness and yes, many hotels and cottages here have opened their gates to furry guests! Let your pup run around the sprawling Botanical Gardens (on a leash!) or enjoy the cool toy train ride (in a crate).

Pet Perk: Stays like Delightz Inn and Destiny Farmstay offer plenty of green space and welcome dogs with open arms and maybe even a treat.

6. Darjeeling, West Bengal – Tea, Trails & Tail Wags

If your dog could book a ticket, they’d choose Darjeeling! With its misty mornings, sunrise views from Tiger Hill, and peaceful hiking trails, this hill station is perfect for sniffing, strolling, and snuggling. Just avoid the city center crowds and stick to scenic outskirts.

Pet Perk: Places like Cedar Inn and Mayfair Darjeeling allow dogs, but it’s always best to inform in advance.

Pro Tips for Hill Station Travel With Your Dog:

  • Pack Smart: Carry dog food, water bowl, leash, poop bags, basic meds & a cozy blanket.

  • Health Check: Visit the vet before travel; mountain air can be a shock for some breeds.

  • Avoid Crowds: Stick to offbeat trails and avoid tourist-packed spots.

  • Respect Nature: Clean up after your dog and keep wildlife-safe distances
Your dog isn’t just a pet they’re family. So why should they miss out on the joy of a mountain escape? With the rise of pet-friendly hill stations in India, it’s time to turn your next vacation into a shared adventure. From snow-covered slopes to tea-covered hills, these scenic spots are just waiting to welcome your wagging-tailed companion.

Let your dog breathe in the mountains and leave pawprints on your memories.

Discover expert advice and the latest tips on pet care, training, health, and more. Stay updated with all things pets at Times Pets!

FAQs
  1. Which are the best hill stations in India to visit with a dog?
    Some of the top dog-friendly hill stations include Manali, Coorg, Munnar, Ooty, Ranikhet, and Darjeeling. These places offer open spaces, cooler climates, and several pet-welcoming accommodations. Your pup can enjoy peaceful walks, scenic drives, and fresh mountain air just like you!
  2. Are there pet-friendly hotels in Indian hill stations?
    Yes, the trend of pet-friendly stays is booming in India. Many boutique resorts, cottages, and homestays now welcome dogs with prior notice. Some even offer pet meals, beds, and secure play areas to make your dog feel at home.
  3. What should I pack when traveling to hill stations with my dog?
    Carry essentials like your dog’s food, leash, poop bags, water bowl, meds, and a blanket for cold nights. If you’re trekking, pack some treats and a basic first-aid kit. It's also smart to carry their vaccination record, just in case.

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