Morni Hills: A Peaceful Pause on the Chandigarh–Delhi Drive
If you’ve ever travelled between Chandigarh and Delhi, you’re familiar with the landscape, punctuated by crowded towns, seemingly endless fields, and numerous roadside dhabas. But situated just a short diversion from the main road is something that many travellers skip—Morni Hills.
Located at the foothills of the Shivalik range, Morni Hills is a peaceful retreat from the turmoil of the city, and hence an ideal sojourn for anyone looking for a bit of nature and a breath of fresh air.
What Does Morni Hills Have to Offer?
Morni Hills is Haryana’s sole hill station at a distance of approximately 27 kilometres from Chandigarh. It is blessed with dense greenery, rolling hills, and a pleasant climate, particularly in the summers when the plains become scorching hot.
The altitude at Morni Hills is around 1,220 metres above sea level, so you can experience cool winds and breathtaking views throughout most of the year. It’s also an apt destination for those travelling in a group, as you can hire a tempo traveller in Delhi and enjoy the scenic route that only adds to the experience.
Things to Do at Morni Hills
Morni Hills is peaceful, but not dull. Here are some activities and places you can visit via a Chandigarh to Delhi taxi:
Tikkar Taal
This twin-lake destination is one of the biggest attractions in the Morni Hills. The lakes—Bada Taal and Chhota Taal—are surrounded by hills and forests, making it an ideal spot for picnics, nature walks, paddle boating, and photography.
Local legends claim that the lakes are interconnected underground, adding a bit of mystique to the experience.
Morni Fort
Perched high above the landscape, Morni Fort dates back over 200 years. Though originally built for defence, it now houses a small heritage museum that showcases the flora, fauna, and cultural history of the region.
The views from the top? Simply stunning. The fort has been refurbished and now contains a small museum that explains the history of the area.
Adventure Activities
If you’re up for some action, Morni Hills doesn’t disappoint. Multiple trekking trails snake through the forest, and the Haryana Tourism department has also developed a Forest Adventure Park nearby.
You’ll find activities like zip-lining, climbing walls, rope courses, and even camping zones for kids and adults alike.
Bird Watching
Thanks to its rich biodiversity, Morni Hills is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Keep an eye out for peacocks, kingfishers, barbets, quails, and drongos, especially in the early mornings.
The area is part of the Morni-Pinjore Wildlife Sanctuary, which also supports a variety of mammals and reptiles.
Temples and Spiritual Sites
For those inclined towards spirituality, the area features a few small but significant temples, such as the Thakur Dwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna, and the Bhuri Singh Deota Temple, nestled amid forests with a unique hilltop ambiance.
Getting There: Travel Options
Want to travel to Morni Hills? Here’s how you can reach this serene hill resort:
By Air
Chandigarh International Airport (IXC), about 38 kilometres from Morni Hills, is the nearest airport. From there, you can hire a cab or taxi to reach Morni Hills in about an hour and a half.
By Train
The closest railway station to Morni Hills is Chandigarh Railway Station, about 20 km away, and conveniently connected to Delhi and other metropolitan cities. Once you reach Chandigarh by train, you can proceed from there by road.
Most tourists like to book a Chandigarh to Delhi taxi service if they are travelling the entire distance with stops in between. It’s a good option to include the Morni Hills in your plan and then proceed further towards Delhi or any other destination.
By Road
Road travel is one of the most preferred ways of seeing the Morni Hills, particularly if you are a lover of scenic drives. A nice diversion from the highway is the road that runs around the Shivalik foothills.
If you’re travelling in a larger group, consider booking a tempo traveller in Delhi instead. It’s comfortable, spacious, and ideal for road travel.
Best Time to Visit
Morni Hills is pleasant throughout the year, but the best time to visit is from October to March. The hills are verdant and lush following the rain, and the weather is cool.
Summers are also comfortable, making it a good escape from the heat of the cities. Avoid the peak monsoon months if you’re not a fan of heavy rains, as the area can get quite slippery.
Wrapping Up
Stopping at Morni Hills along your drive from Chandigarh to Delhi is more than a pit stop—it’s a break that rejuvenates the body and mind alike. Whether you’re an environmental enthusiast, an adventure traveller, or one who’s simply looking for a quiet respite, Morni Hills has something in store for all.
And if you’re looking for reliable travel options, platforms like Savaari Car Rentals make it easy to book your ride and explore hidden gems like Morni Hills with ease. Happy travels!
