During the summer season in India, temperatures can rise considerably, especially in cities such as Delhi, Jaipur, and Nagpur, where the mercury can cross 40°C, making a simple stroll tiring. In case you are looking for some of the best places to visit in India during summer, here is a handy guide to get you started.
This is when a vacation in the mountains becomes more than just an indulgence; it becomes essential.
Fortunately, there is no shortage of cool vacation spots in India. From snow-topped mountains, tea-studded hills, tranquil lakes, to valley retreats, the country has plenty of options to beat the hot weather.
As avid advocates of memorable, meticulously planned vacations, the team at Asian Destinations has compiled a list of 10 summer destinations in India.
1. Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Manali is one of the best summer travel destinations in India. A hill station in the Himalayas, which means there is plenty of snow, pine forests, and adventure. Manali’s weather remains cool during the day, and the evenings are best for river walks and cafe hopping.
Travel Guide for visitors:
Budget Range: ₹12k to ₹30k per person for 4 days
Food to Try: Siddu, trout fish, babru kachori, and Himachali dham
How to Get There: Flight to Kullu-Manali airport or Volvo bus from Delhi to Manali
Ideal For: Couples, families, and adventure seekers
2. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
The state is famous for its colonial architecture, fresh air, and warm views. The town of Shimla has been luring tourists for over a hundred years now, and it is one of the best places for summer vacations in India, which provides comfort and fun without any tiring journey.
Travel Guide for visitors:
Budget Range: ₹10k to 25k per person (3-4 days)
Food to try: Chha gosht, madra, and bakery products
How to get there: Train to Kalka, then Kalka-Shimla railway
Ideal For: Families and first-time visitors
3. Darjeeling, West Bengal
This is one of those towns which grow on you. Tea plantations of Darjeeling spread across the
hills; the little train chugs along, and the sunrise behind the Kanchenjunga peak is simply mesmerising.
If you like relaxing mornings and scenic hilltops with a steaming cup of the world-renowned tea, Darjeeling is one of your summer travel destinations in India.
Travel Guide for visitors:
Budget Range: ₹15k – ₹35k per person for 4 days
Food to Try: Momos, thukpa, and Darjeeling tea
How to Get There: Take a flight to Bagdogra Airport and then reach Darjeeling by road.
Ideal For: Couples, photographers, and tea lovers
4. Munnar, Kerala
Munnar, a perfect summer destination in India, will suit you well if you prefer greenery over mountains. This place, located in the Western Ghats, is famous for its tea plantations, misty hills, and serene atmosphere.
Here, you can’t help but notice yourself waking up early to have a look at the scenic view around.
Travel Guide for visitors:
Budget Range: ₹12k to ₹28k per person for 3 to 4 days
Food to Try: Appam with stew, Kerala sadya, and banana chips
How to Get There: Take a flight to Cochin International Airport and reach Munnar by road
Ideal For: Newly married and nature lovers
5. Nainital, Uttarakhand
Nainital, located in the outer Himalayas, is also known as the ‘lake district of India’. The town welcomes you with beautiful scenery, easy accessibility, and numerous family-friendly activities.
Evening boating on the lake remains a popular activity among visitors.
Travel Guide for visitors:
Budget Range: ₹8k to ₹20k per person for 3 days
Food to Try: Bal mithai and aloo ke gutke, cucumber raita, Kumaoni thali
How to Get There: Train to Kathgodam Railway Station, then a cab to Nainital.
Ideal For: Weekends and family vacations
6. Leh-Ladakh
Leh-Ladakh is unique in its terrain and remote location. The Crystal-clear lakes, rugged
landscapes, and ancient monasteries make it an unusual and one of the best places to visit in India during summers.
Travel Guide for visitors:
Budget Range: ₹25k to ₹60k per person for 6 to 7 days
Food to Try: Thukpa, butter tea, khabir, gur-gur chai, and skyu
How to Get There: Fly to Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport
Ideal For: Adventure tourism
7. Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Ooty has everything that makes a perfect hill station: cool climate, botanical gardens, scenic
mountains, and a toy train.
The town is laid-back, picturesque, and perfect for couples and families alike.
Travel Guide for visitors:
Budget Range: ₹10k to ₹25k per person for 3-4 days
Food to Try: Home-made chocolates, Nilgiri tea, and Varkey biscuits
How to Get There: Flight to Coimbatore Airport and drive to Ooty
Ideal For: Couple & Family Vacations
8. Mount Abu, Rajasthan
The only hill station in Rajasthan, Mount Abu, gives a refreshing change from the hot summers. Its Aravalli ranges, Nakki Lake, and Dilwara Temples are the major attractions here.
The place is suitable as a short break from Gujarat and Rajasthan.
Travel Guide for visitors:
Budget Range: ₹8,000 – ₹18,000 per person for 2-3 days
Best Food: Dal baati churma and rabri
How to Get There: Train to Abu Road Railway Station
Ideal For: Short mountain breaks
Conclusion
Summers are the right season to say goodbye to the hustle and bustle of city life and the hot climate, and head off to enjoy cool weather and the scenic beauty of the mountains.
Above are some of the best places to visit in India during summers. Some people like adventure and go to Leh-Ladakh, while others prefer to experience the charm of tea plantations in Munnar.
There are other options too. Summer destinations in India offer an exciting break from the routine and pleasant memories for years to come.
Looking forward to an enjoyable trip? Contact Asian Destinations to turn your travel dreams into reality.
FAQS
1. What are the best destinations for visiting in India during summer with families?
Ans: Shimla, Nainital, Ooty, and Munnar are good options for their scenic beauty and comfortable stays.
2. Which are the budget-friendly destinations in India during summer vacations?
Ans: Destinations like Nainital, Mount Abu, and Shimla can be visited within a budget.
3. Which are the best destinations for couples?
Ans: Popular destinations include Manali, Darjeeling, Munnar, and Ooty.
4. How far in advance do I need to plan my summer vacation?
Ans: It’s advisable to plan your vacation four to six weeks before the desired date.
5. Which destination is the best for adventurers?
Ans: Leh-Ladakh, Manali, and Auli are the right destinations for adventures.
