SOTC Blog

Most individuals travel to hill stations in Himachal Pradesh or Uttarakhand to seek relief from the intense summer heat. However, only seasoned travellers are aware that Haryana also boasts a captivating hill station—the Morni Hills in Panchkula!

The Morni Hills is a destination suited for individuals seeking solace amidst verdant meadows, meandering streams, mist-shrouded mountains, and a tranquil environment. Serving as the sole hill station in Haryana, it is characterized by a dense canopy of pine, oak, and eucalyptus trees that shape the landscape and offer a soothing retreat for those in search of a sanctuary from urban life.

The wonders of Morni Hills include archaeological sites, interesting activities, flora and fauna, gorgeous forests, beautiful lakes, and more. Morni Hills in Panchkula is the perfect picnic spot and destination for friends and family, solo travellers, trekkers, nature lovers, and even corporate outings.

To get a detailed look at when and what to do at Morni Hill station in Haryana, continue reading this local guide for travellers.

Location of Morni Hills in Panchkula

Morni Hill station is a hidden gem tucked away in the Panchkula district of Haryana. Situated in the foothills of the Shivalik range, the mesmerising Morni Hills are approximately 45 km from Chandigarh and 260 km from New Delhi.

Reaching Morni Hills

1. From Chandigarh

The quickest way to reach Morni Hills, Panchkula, from Chandigarh is via a private cab or self-drive. You can also take a local bus from the ISBT and reach Panchkula within two hours. From there, you can book a cab to your hotel in Morni Hills. However, the best and easiest way to reach Morni Hills will be from Chandigarh.

2. From Delhi

The journey from Delhi to Panchkula is more extended than that from Chandigarh. The best way to reach Morni Hills via Delhi is by hiring a private cab or driving down in your vehicle.

You can also take a train from Delhi to Chandigarh, which takes about five hours. From there, you can hire a cab and reach your destination. Starting your journey in the morning is always advisable to avoid traffic during peak hours.

Historical Significance of Morni Hill Station

Morni Hills in Panchkula, Haryana, is steeped in folklore and ancient legends, adding to its allure and intrigue. Historically, Morni Hills have been associated with various dynasties that have left their mark on the land, including the Rajputs, Mughals, Chandelas, and the British colonial era. Traces of ancient forts and ruins hint at the area’s historical and archaeological importance, making it one of the top attractions in the Morni Hills. 

It is believed that the town of Panchkula derived its name from the five irrigation canals (or ‘kuls’) established during the reign of the Pandavas. For this reason, this enchanting city is also known as the ‘City of 5 Canals.’

Furthermore, the nearby town of Pinjore is home to the historic Pinjore Gardens, also known as Yadavindra Gardens, which were built during the Mughal era and serve as a testament to the historical heritage of the region.

Things to do in Morni Hills, Panchkula

Morni Hills in Panchkula checks all the boxes of a hill station: nature, lakes, wildlife, flora, panoramic scenery, and so much more. So, indulge in the following activities on your visit to this stunning hill station.

1. Explore the unique wildlife

Morni Hills is home to diverse wildlife species, making it a haven for nature lovers and enthusiasts. This hill station in Haryana boasts a variety of fauna, including leopards, jungle cats, hyenas, and langurs, among others. Birdwatchers can spot numerous avian species, like peafowl, yellow-eyed babblers, and red junglefowl.

The dense forests and hilly terrain provide a natural habitat for these animals, offering visitors a unique opportunity to observe them in their natural surroundings. Conservation efforts are also in place to protect the wildlife in Morni Hills, ensuring the preservation of this thriving ecosystem for future generations to appreciate and enjoy.

2. Boating

Tikkar Lake is one of the most visited attractions at Morni Hill station. It is placid and gives off a calm vibe to visitors. Enjoy the peaceful scenery surrounding the lake or hop on a boat to get the most out of your experience.

3. Nature Walks

Morni Hills in Panchkula, akin to all hill stations, provides a serene and rejuvenating experience for visitors. The area offers opportunities for tranquil nature walks, where one can explore the lake, visit numerous temples, and admire the diverse array of trees, including neem, peepul, jamun, oak, and jacaranda.

The natural abundance of this place ensures that a leisurely stroll may reveal gurgling streams, diverse birdlife, and various woodland creatures. This destination is truly a haven for individuals seeking solace and restoration in the embrace of nature.

4. Trekking to Morni Fort

If you are an adventurous soul, the best thing to do in Morni Hills is to hike to the ancient Morni Fort. One of the must-visit places in Morni Hills, the fort is perched atop the hills, offering breathtaking views of the Shivalik Range, and is completely worth it.

The beauty of the trek, however, lies in the trails, which are full of wildflowers and dense forests, making it the perfect opportunity to bond with your family and friends. It is advisable to carry a good-quality camera to capture some of the most spectacular images. The rustic architecture of the fort is a sight to behold and captures the attention of history and architecture lovers. As nature enthusiasts, you will find your trek memorable.

5. Adventure Park

There are also many rides and swings available for kids to enjoy. If you get tired, you can sit in a cafeteria to cool off before beginning your adventure again. You shouldn’t miss the eye-catching fountain set up in the middle of the park.

If you are young or have a child, you must spend at least two hours exploring the Adventure Park in Morni Hills and participating in several events and activities. The entry fee to the park is Rs 50 for adults and Rs 30 for children.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Morni Hills in Panchkula is between September and March. The hills exhibit exquisite beauty during the monsoon season with vibrant greenery, but it is prudent to remain mindful of potential disruption caused by heavy rainfall.

According to our experts, the peak tourist season occurs during the winter months from October to January, characterised by enjoyable cold weather. We highly recommend partaking in camping and bonfire activities amidst the enchanting forests of Panchkula.

Top Tips When Visiting Morni Hills, Panchkula

Morni Hills offers numerous attractions that draw visitors from diverse geographical locations. When planning a visit to Morni Hills in Panchkula, remember these top tips to ensure a great experience.

• The first thing to remember when visiting Morni Hills is that there is no market around. So, pack important things like medicines, water bottles, snacks, etc., with you or purchase them before entering Morni Hills.
• The area does not have any gasoline pumps, so if you are driving to Morni Hills, ensure that your vehicle’s tank is full.
• It is possible that you will not come across ATMs or banks. So, it is advisable to keep cash with you, even though most hotels accept UPIs or cards. However, there is a possibility that restaurants and cafeterias in adventure parks may ask for cash.
• Morni Hill is usually not as cool as Shimla or Manali during the summers, so be sure to pack fewer woollen clothes. A single jacket or cardigan should be sufficient.
• Always keep a water bottle with you, especially during treks, as there might not be any food joint or outlet that sells snacks or drinks. The same applies to food, too.
• Spend some time with the locals to learn about the culture, activities, occupations, and history of Morni Hills.

Places to visit in Morni Hills

Apart from trekking, exploring, and rejuvenating amid the abundance of nature, you can explore some aesthetically pleasing Morni Hills tourist places. Here’s a list of must-visit attractions you can include on your bucket list.

1. Pinjore Garden

One of the top Morni Hills attractions, Pinjore Garden in Panchkula, also known as Yadavindra Gardens, is a historic 17th-century Mughal garden spread across seven terraces. The ancient garden currently features lush lawns, cascading fountains, and charming pavilions that attract many visitors.

2. Garden of Silence

The Garden of Silence in Panchkula is a tranquil oasis for those seeking a place for meditation and self-reflection. One of the most peaceful places in Morni Hills, this serene garden features lush greenery, calming pathways, and a peaceful ambience. The highlight of this place is a giant statue of Lord Buddha that will mesmerise you with its magnanimity.

3. Cactus Garden

The Cactus Garden in Panchkula is Asia’s largest, showcasing over 3,500 species of cacti and succulents. A botanical marvel, it offers plant enthusiasts a unique, visually striking experience. The garden’s diverse collection and serene pathways make it a captivating spot for nature walks and photography.

4. Ramgarh Fort

Ramgarh Fort offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage with ancient sundials, deep wells, and the tallest door in India, marking a retreat for historians and travellers alike. Built by Raja Ram Chander, this fort is now a heritage hotel surrounded by lush landscapes and luxurious facilities.

5. Karoh Peak

Located on the border of Himachal Pradesh and Haryana, Karoh Peak is a secluded space that is a boon for introverts to spend some quality time amid nature. It is the highest point in Haryana and is also home to several temples. It takes about an hour to reach the peak and 40 minutes to return to the starting point.

As beautiful as it is, Karoh Peak is one of the less visited Morni Hills attractions. However, its beauty is no less than that of other treks. So, make sure to put it on your travel checklist when travelling to Morni Hills.

Our travel experts at SOTC recommend a stop at Deothi Village, nestled close to the starting point of the trek. You can learn the local ways of living in terms of stay, food, and top activities. The place also offers the best view of Morni Hills. 

6. Mata Baglamukhi Temple

Mata Baglamukhi, one of the top places to visit in Morni Hills, is a Shakti Peeth and a place of high reverence for the locals. People from all over the country visit the temple and seek the blessings of the goddess.

There is always ‘bhandara’ going on, so enjoy the same after ‘darshan.’ Baglamukhi Temple should thus be on your bucket list when travelling to the beautiful Panchkula.

Now that you have an idea of what to do and where to go on your trip to Morni Hills in Panchkula, it’s time to set a date, pack your bags, and fill up your gas tank to have a memorable vacation in one of a kind hill station in Haryana!

Need a customised package for your trip to Morni Hills, Panchkula? Visit SOTC and spend the coming weekend unwinding from the stress of regular life in Morni Hills.