Best places to visit in summer in India

Come summer and everyone will be looking for a long getaway, away from the scorching high temperatures and hustle-bustle of inland-city life. With the mercury rising to unprecedented heights in India, everyone will be looking for places to visit in summer in India. From the lofty peaks in the Himalayas to the Blue Mountains and the Andaman Islands in the south, and from the Western Ghats to the eastern extents of the Himalayas in the northeastern states, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to deciding where to go for summer holidays in India. Here is a list of all the places that are surely worth a visit. Do not forget to note down your favourites among these!

Best places to visit in summer in India

1. Shimla: Victorian Architecture

The capital of Himachal Pradesh is one of the most popular hill stations in North India. The cool Himalayan breeze, scenic views, and heritage resorts make it one of the best summer destinations in India. From the Himalayan trails decorated by lakes and apple arcades to the Victorian Architecture and colourful markets, there is everything to enjoy during a family vacation, adventure holiday, or honeymoon in Shimla.

Things to do in Shimla:

• Explore Mall Road
• Drive to scenic Jakhu Hill from Shimla
• Visit Lord Hanuman's Temple
• Visit the Viceregal Lodge
• Stop at Annandale to experience Polo Games

How to reach Shimla

The Himalayan Toy Train is one of the best ways to arrive to the hill town. Frequent buses and cabs are available from major cities. The nearest airport is in Chandigarh.

2. Darjeeling: Tea Garden Paradise

The tea gardens in Darjeeling make an appealing invitation for travellers to enjoy the stunning views and magical tea aroma in this charming hill station in the Northeast. The views of Kanchenjunga, lush tea gardens, toy train rides, markets, and monasteries are the top attractions to cover during a family summer vacation in Darjeeling.

Things to do in Darjeeling:

• Visit the famous Ghoom Monastery
• Visit the zoo and Himalayan Mountaineering Institute
• Visit Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park.
• Explore Mall Road and bustling Batasia Loop

How to reach Darjeeling

The hill town in North East India is best accessible by the Toy Train. Jalpaiguri is the nearest railway station and the closest airport is in Siliguri. Cabs frequently ply to the hill town.

3. Munnar: Absolutely Serene

Munnar tops the list of the most beautiful hill stations in South India. The misty roads, lush tea plantations, mountains, and waterfalls make impressive views and a charming climate for the best family summer vacations in India.

Things to do in Munnar:

• Witness the sprawling tea plantations
• Enjoy Horse riding, cycling, trekking, etc.
• Visit the gushing Athirapally Waterfall.
• Explore Eravikulam National Park.
• Visit Old Munnar markets

How to reach Munnar

Munnar is the beautiful hill station of Kerala and is well connected to cities. Kochi International Airport and Ernakulam Railway station are the closest air and rail connection.

4. Manali: Little paradise

Blessed with eternal natural beauty, Manali offers everything including adventure, serenity, and spirituality. While adventure lovers can indulge in trekking, skiing, paragliding, and rafting, others can visit the temple, markets, and monasteries or just relax on the lap of nature. The marvellous panorama and Himalayan breeze make Manali one of the coolest summer destinations in India.

Things to do in Manali:

• Indulge in Mountain trekking and river rafting
• Enjoy the cafe culture
• Explore the markets
• Visit the temples and monasteries

How to reach Manali

The road to Manali is a beauty, therefore the best way to get to the hill town is on a bus, cab or your own private vehicle. The nearest airport is in Bhuntar, 50 km. away. The nearest railway station is Chandigarh, 350 km away.

5. Ladakh: Himalayan Adventure

The adventure capital of India needs no introduction. Its incredible natural beauty and cool atmosphere place Ladakh among the top summer holiday destinations in India. Buddhist monasteries, azure lakes, and exciting Himalayan passes make opportunities for bikers and hikers to experience amazing adventure activities in Ladakh.

Things to do in Ladakh:

• Take a bike ride through the rocky trails of Ladakh
• Visit the blue Pangong Tso Lake
• Enjoy a camel ride through the sand dunes of Nubra Valley

How to reach Ladakh

The best way to reach Ladakh is by road. Either drive from Manali or from Srinagar or take both routes alternatively. You can also fly to the Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, Leh.

6. Rishikesh: Adventure capital

The stunning panorama, yoga retreat, and charming climate place Rishikesh amongst the best destinations for a summer vacation in India. The great opportunities for bungee jumping and white river rafting in Rishikesh also make the place one of the best adventure destinations in India in the summer.

Things to do in Rishikesh:

• Take part in Bungee Jumping
• Enjoy River rafting and camping.
• Visit a Yoga retreat.
• Watch evening Ganga Aarti at the Ghat.

How to reach Rishikesh

Nestled at the foothills of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand, Rishikesh has the closest international connection with Delhi Airport or Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. The nearest railway station is in Haridwar.

7. Kalimpong: Family Vacation Spot

Darjeeling and Kalimpong are like twin brothers making way for the best summer vacations in India with kids. But what gives Kalimpong an edge over Darjeeling is that it is untouched and less frequently visited by people. So, Kalimpong is for those who are looking for a quiet summer getaway from Kolkata and other places. This beautiful hill station in West Bengal is a perfect summer destination owing to its pleasant nature, panoramic views, and proximity to other tourist attractions in the Northeast.

Things to do in Kalimpong:

• Enjoy Paragliding, bird watching, and fishing
• Relax by the side of the Teesta River

How to reach Kalimpong

Bagdogra Airport is the closest air terminal to Kalimpong. New Jalpaiguri Railway station is the nearest rail connection. Cabs are available from both, offering frequent connectivity to the hill town.

8. Auli: Skiing Paradise

Adventure seekers head to Auli during winter to enjoy skiing. For its stunning panorama, Auli is also tagged as one of the most romantic destinations in India. The snow-capped mountain peaks over the green pastures and the cool climate make it ideal for the best family summer vacations in India in 2022.

Things to do in Auli:

• Travel to Joshimath by the ropeway and enjoy the panoramic view.
• Go on trekking adventures to places like Gorson and Kuari Pass

How to reach Auli

Jolly Grant Airport and Rishikesh railway station serves as the easiest means to travel to Auli. Cab services are easily available to the destination.