10 Best Places to Visit in Summer in India

Home » 10 Best Places to Visit in Summer in India

Indian summers can get too harsh, with temperatures touching as high as 45-47 degrees Celsius in the hottest regions. The best way to escape the heat of these hot plains is by visiting a cooler destination. Luckily, India has varying terrains such as mountains, beaches and forests that offer a much-needed respite. Therefore, summer is one of the best times of the year to go for a vacation, as you can get some relief from the heat and simultaneously explore new spots in India! This article brings a small yet comprehensive list of the best summer vacation places to plan your next travel destination in India. 

Best Places to Visit in Summer in India:

1. Manali, Himachal Pradesh
2. Ladakh
3. Kashmir
4. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
5. Andaman and Nicobar Islands
6. Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra
7. Kalimpong, West Bengal
8. Darjeeling, West Bengal
9. Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh
10. Coorg, Karnataka

1. Manali, Himachal Pradesh

A holiday in Manali is usually planned, keeping in mind the snow-covered peaks, lush green forests, and gushing rivers. Interestingly, Manali also offers a range of excellent local food and some beautiful temples to tourists. With the right mix of people and planning, Manali promises to be one of the best locations for a relaxing vacation. 

Things to do in Manali:

• Visit the Hadimba temple
• Try out cafes in Old Manali
• Try out adventure activities like rafting, paragliding etc

How to reach:

There are various options for reaching Manali. The nearest airport is in Bhuntar. You can also take an overnight bus from Delhi and reach Manali. 

2. Ladakh

Ladakh can be experienced in its full glory during Summer because of its perfect temperature and clear views of the mountains. Ladakh is undoubtedly one of the best places for a summer vacation in India as it offers something for everyone, whether you’re going solo or with family.

Things to do in Ladakh:

• Explore the rocky routes of Ladakh on a bike.
• Experience the tranquillity of the Pangong Tso lake.
• Visit Nubra valley to experience camel rides and orchards. 

How to reach:

The nearest airport is Leh which is connected to Delhi. Jammu Tawi railway station is 700km away and is the closest railway station to Leh. You can also visit Ladakh via bike from Delhi. 

3. Kashmir

Often referred to as ‘Heaven on Earth,’ Kashmir is one of the best places to visit during summer. You will surely be mesmerised by the beautiful mountains, vast meadows, and soothing lakes. Famous cities such as Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Srinagar are the perfect places to visit in the summers for a beautiful, cool getaway. 

Things to do in Kashmir: 

• Cruise in the clear water of the Dal Lake
• Visit the floating market in Srinagar
• Take a Gondola ride in Gulmarg 

How to reach:

The nearest airport is Srinagar, and the nearest railway station is Jammu, 290 kms from Kashmir. 

4. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

Rishikesh is an ideal summer vacation place for those looking for a spiritual retreat. Rishikesh is one of the best places in India for trying out adventure sports. It is also the starting point for various treks. Rishikesh is a beautiful summer destination for those looking for some adventure and a touch of spirituality. 

Things to do in Rishikesh:

• Try river rafting and bungee jumping if you love adventure
• Learn Yoga while in Rishikesh
• Visit Lakshman Jhula and attend the Ganga Aarti in the evening

How to reach: 

Rishikesh is accessible by flight, train and road. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant airport. You can also take an overnight bus from Delhi to Rishikesh.

5. Andaman and Nicobar Islands

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are home to pristine blue waters, cooling rainforests, and various flora and fauna. The Islands have something for everyone, be it an adventure enthusiast, a history lover, or someone looking to relax. The beaches of Andaman will never disappoint you, and hence, they make it one of the best places to visit in the summer.

Things to do:

• Visit Radhanagar Beach, Havelock Island, Port Blair and other popular sites
• Try out water sports such as scuba diving, snorkelling, surfing, etc.
• Bird watching in the tropical rainforests

How to reach: 

The islands are quite remote, and there are fewer flights landing at Port Blair, which is the nearest airport. 

6. Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra

Mahabaleshwar in the Western Ghats is another popular summer vacation destination. Known for delicious fruits, exciting hiking trails, and expansive mountains, Mahabaleshwar offers a holistic experience for visitors. With multiple sites, activities and the famous Mapro Garden, Mahabaleshwar is one of the best places for a summer vacation.

Things to do in Mahabaleshwar:

• Visit the tableland and enjoy horse riding 
• Visit Mapro farms and attend the strawberry festival that happens in May
• Enjoy trekking on nature trails in Mahabaleshwar

How to reach:

If you’re travelling from Mumbai, you can opt for overnight buses or go via any private vehicle. Pune is the nearest airport and railway station for visiting Mahabaleshwar. 

7. Kalimpong, West Bengal

Kalimpong is less frequented by travellers than other hill stations and hence makes for an ideal destination for those avoiding the crowd. Overlooking the mighty Teesta river and the lofty Mt Kanchendzonga, the town is blessed with hills, rivers, a pleasant climate and proximity to other tourist attractions in North East India.

Things to do:

• Visit Pedong monastery 
• Try rafting on the Teesta river
• Visit Dr Graham’s home

How to reach:

Bagdogra airport is the nearest airport to this hill town. New Jalpaiguri is the nearest railway station to Kalimpong. Transport is easily available from both the places to Kalimpong.

8. Darjeeling, West Bengal

Darjeeling conjures us images of snowy peaks, lush green hills, and the mighty Himalayas, a country of awe-inspiring splendour. When it comes to hillside resorts, Darjeeling ranks as one of the best. This paradise is awash in a rainbow of colours. Darjeeling is truly the Queen of the Hills.

Things to do: 

• Go river rafting.
• Trek to Sandakphu
• Travel on the toy train

How to reach: 

You can reach Darjeeling after getting off at the New Jalpaiguri Railway Station. There are direct trains from metropolitan cities. You can also take a flight to Bagdogra Airport which is 96 km from Darjeeling. 

9. Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh

A prominent hill station in Himachal Pradesh, Dalhousie offers views of the Dhauladhar ranges, which are covered in snow during the winter months. Dalhousie is well-known for its lush greenery, deep forest, and cascading waterfalls. Honeymooners and families alike flock to the area.

Things to do: 

• Trek to Panchpula Waterfall
• Sail in the Chamera Lake
• Spend a day in Khajjiar

How to reach: 

You can reach here by flying to Pathankot (75 km away). You can also take a train from Delhi, Jaipur, Jammu, etc. to Pathankot Railway Station which is just 2-3 hours away. 

10. Coorg, Karnataka

This misty country of hills and streams has a calming aroma of the coffee, so get out of bed and take in the view. Infusing history, elegance, adventure, and mouthwatering cuisine, Coorg lives up to its moniker as the Scotland of India. In addition to its awe-inspiring beautiful environment and richness, this well-known hill station is located along the western ghats.

Things to do: 

• Witness Tibetan culture
• Go to Dubare Elephant Camp
• Go camping

How to reach: 

The nearest airport is Mangalore Airport which is 160km away. There are also daily buses from Bangalore, Mangalore and Mysuru. The nearest railway station is in Mysuru which is 95 km away.