From serene hill stations to high-altitude lakes and tea-scented valleys, summer in India is filled with diverse and delightful escapes.
Here’s a detailed guide to the best summer destinations across the country including how to get there, what to do, where to stay, what to eat, and insider travel tips for a seamless adventure.
1. Manali, Himachal Pradesh – Adventure and Serenity Combined
How to Reach Manali:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Bhuntar (Kullu), about 50 km from Manali. From there, taxis and buses are available.
- By Road: Well-connected by road to Delhi (12–14 hours), Chandigarh (8 hours), and other North Indian cities. Volvo buses and taxis are common options.
- By Rail: Joginder Nagar is the closest railway station but not very accessible. Chandigarh or Ambala are better-connected alternatives.
Things to See and Do in Manali:
- Enjoy adventure sports in Solang Valley – paragliding, skiing, and zorbing.
- Visit the sacred Hidimba Devi Temple and Manu Temple.
- Take a day trip to Rohtang Pass for snow and scenic views.
- Relax at the Vashisht Hot Springs and trek to Jogini Falls.
- Explore the charming Old Manali with its cafes and bohemian vibe.
Accommodation in Manali:
- Luxury: Manu Allaya, Span Resort & Spa
- Mid-range: Johnson Lodge, Snow Valley Resorts
- Budget: The Hosteller, Zostel Manali, local guesthouses
Food in Manali:
- Dine at Café 1947, Johnson’s Café, and Chopsticks.
- Must-try dishes: Siddu, Trout fish, Tibetan momos, and thukpa.
Pro Tips:
- Carry warm clothes even in summer; temperatures drop at night.
- Book permits for Rohtang Pass online in advance.
- Avoid peak weekend crowds by visiting early in the week.
2. Leh, Ladakh – The Land of High Passes
How to Reach Leh:
- By Air: The fastest way to reach Leh is by air. The Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh connects to Delhi, Srinagar, and other major cities.
- By Road: Adventurous travelers can take road trips via the Manali-Leh Highway (open June to October) or the Srinagar-Leh Highway. Both routes offer breathtaking views but require careful acclimatization.
- By Rail: No direct rail connectivity. The nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi (700+ km).
Things to See and Do in Leh, Ladakh:
- Visit Pangong Lake, Tso Moriri, and Nubra Valley for surreal landscapes.
- Explore ancient monasteries like Thiksey, Hemis, and Diskit.
- Experience the Magnetic Hill and the confluence of Indus and Zanskar rivers.
- Go trekking on trails like Markha Valley and Chadar Trek (in winter).
- Wander through Leh Market and try local handicrafts.
Accommodation in Leh:
- Luxury: The Grand Dragon, The Zen Ladakh
- Mid-range: Hotel Omasila, Sia-La Guest House
- Budget: Homestays in Leh and Nubra, hostels like Zostel and GoStops
Food in Leh:
- Local favorites include momos, thukpa, skyu, and butter tea.
- Eat at Bon Appetit, The Tibetan Kitchen, and Lamayuru Restaurant.
Pro Tips:
- Acclimatize for at least 24 hours before any high-altitude activity.
- Stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activity on the first day.
- Carry cash; card machines and ATMs can be unreliable in remote areas.
3. Darjeeling, West Bengal – The Queen of the Hills
How to Reach Darjeeling:
- By Air: Fly to Bagdogra Airport (70 km away), followed by a taxi or shared jeep ride.
- By Rail: Arrive at New Jalpaiguri (NJP) and take the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train) or a cab.
- By Road: Well-connected to Siliguri, Kalimpong, and Gangtok by shared taxis and buses.
Things to See and Do in Darjeeling:
- Witness a breathtaking sunrise at Tiger Hill with views of Kanchenjunga.
- Ride the historic Toy Train through scenic landscapes.
- Visit Batasia Loop, Peace Pagoda, and Darjeeling Zoo.
- Take a tour of a tea estate and sample fresh Darjeeling tea.
- Stroll along Mall Road and shop for souvenirs.
Accommodation in Darjeeling:
- Luxury: Mayfair Darjeeling, Glenburn Tea Estate
- Mid-range: Dekeling Hotel, Little Tibet Resort
- Budget: Pahari Soul, backpacker hostels
Food in Darjeeling:
- Enjoy momos, thukpa, Tibetan and Nepali thalis.
- Best places: Glenary’s Bakery, Kunga Restaurant, Sonam’s Kitchen
Pro Tips:
- Book toy train tickets in advance through IRCTC.
- Weather changes fast; carry warm clothing and rain protection.
- Mornings are the best time to explore before fog sets in.
4. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh – Colonial Charm in the Hills
How to Reach Shimla:
- By Air: Nearest airport is Jubarhati Airport (23 km). Limited connectivity. Chandigarh Airport is a better alternative (113 km).
- By Rail: Board the Kalka-Shimla Toy Train from Kalka for scenic views.
- By Road: Well-connected by buses and taxis from Delhi, Chandigarh, and other cities.
Things to See and Do in Shimla:
- Walk on Mall Road and visit The Ridge for colonial architecture.
- Explore Jakhoo Temple, Kufri, and Christ Church.
- Hike to Chadwick Falls or visit the Indian Institute of Advanced Study.
Accommodation in Shimla:
- Luxury: Oberoi Cecil, Clarke’s Hotel
- Mid-range: Hotel Willow Banks, Honeymoon Inn
- Budget: YMCA, hostels and guesthouses in Chotta Shimla
Food in Shimla:
- Try chana madra, siddu, and tudkiya bhath.
- Popular spots: Café Simla Times, Wake and Bake, Himachali Rasoi
Pro Tips:
- Summer is busy—book hotels and train tickets early.
- Mornings and evenings are cool—carry a light jacket.
- Local buses and walking are the best ways to get around town.
5. Ooty, Tamil Nadu – The Queen of the Nilgiris
How to Reach Ooty:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Coimbatore International Airport (87 km). From there, hire a taxi or take a bus.
- By Rail: The Nilgiri Mountain Railway from Mettupalayam to Ooty offers a scenic ride and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- By Road: Well-connected via buses and taxis from Coimbatore, Mysore, and Bangalore.
Things to See and Do in Ooty:
- Take a ride on the Nilgiri Toy Train.
- Visit Ooty Lake, Rose Garden, and Botanical Gardens.
- Enjoy panoramic views from Doddabetta Peak.
- Explore the nearby Coonoor and Tea Estates.
- Go boating or horseback riding at Pykara Lake.
Accommodation in Ooty:
- Luxury: Taj Savoy, Sterling Ooty Elk Hill
- Mid-range: Club Mahindra Derby Green, Fortune Resort Sullivan Court
- Budget: Zostel, Backpacker Panda, guesthouses near Charring Cross
Food in Ooty:
- Try homemade chocolates, local bakery treats, and South Indian thalis.
- Popular eateries: Earl’s Secret, Nahar Restaurant, Willy’s Coffee Pub
Pro Tips:
- Book train tickets well in advance—Toy Train is popular and fills fast.
- Ooty can get chilly even in summer; pack light woolens.
- Avoid weekends for a more peaceful experience.
6. Munnar, Kerala – Lush Green Escape
How to Reach Munnar:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (110 km).
- By Rail: The closest railway stations are Aluva and Ernakulam.
- By Road: Munnar is accessible by taxi or bus from Kochi, Aluva, and other towns in Kerala.
Things to See and Do in Munnar:
- Visit Eravikulam National Park to see the endangered Nilgiri Tahr.
- Stroll through Tea Gardens and tour a tea museum.
- View the cascading Attukal and Lakkam Waterfalls.
- Take in the view from Top Station and Echo Point.
- Trek through the Anamudi Peak, the highest in South India.
Accommodation in Munnar:
- Luxury: Blanket Hotel & Spa, Fragrant Nature Munnar
- Mid-range: Abad Copper Castle, Tea Valley Resort
- Budget: Zostel Munnar, The Hosteller, homestays
Food in Munnar:
- Relish Kerala-style fish curry, appam with stew, and coconut-based dishes.
- Good places: Saravana Bhavan, Rapsy Restaurant
Pro Tips:
- Munnar can be misty and cold in the evenings; carry warm clothes.
- Visit tea gardens early in the morning for the best light and fewer crowds.
- Respect local wildlife and follow park regulations strictly.
7. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand – Yoga Capital of the World
How to Reach Rishikesh:
- By Air: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun (35 km).
- By Rail: Closest railway station is Haridwar (25 km). Taxis and buses are available from there.
- By Road: Regular buses connect Rishikesh to Delhi, Dehradun, and Haridwar.
Things to See and Do in Rishikesh:
- Attend yoga and meditation sessions at Parmarth Niketan or Sivananda Ashram.
- Experience the Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat.
- Go white-water rafting in the Ganges.
- Visit Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula.
- Trek to Neer Garh Waterfalls.
Accommodation in Rishikesh:
- Luxury: Aloha on the Ganges, Taj Rishikesh Resort & Spa
- Mid-range: Divine Resort, EllBee Ganga View
- Budget: Hosteller, Live Free Hostel, ashram stays
Food in Rishikesh:
- Rishikesh is a vegetarian town—try Ayurvedic meals, street food, and organic cafes.
- Must-visit: Beatles Café, Little Buddha Café, Chotiwala Restaurant
Pro Tips:
- Avoid monsoon season for rafting; summer offers ideal water levels.
- Rishikesh is alcohol- and meat-free—plan meals accordingly.
- Book rafting and adventure packages from certified operators.
8. Gangtok, Sikkim – Gateway to the Northeast
How to Reach Gangtok:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Pakyong Airport (31 km), though flights are limited. Alternatively, Bagdogra Airport (124 km) offers better connectivity.
- By Rail: The closest railway station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP) in West Bengal (120 km).
- By Road: Shared jeeps and taxis are available from Siliguri, NJP, and Bagdogra.
Things to See and Do in Gangtok:
- Explore the peaceful Rumtek Monastery and Enchey Monastery.
- Visit Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass, and Baba Mandir.
- Take a cable car ride across the city.
- Discover Himalayan flora at the Flower Exhibition Centre.
- Enjoy MG Marg’s cafes and shops.
Accommodation in Gangtok:
- Luxury: Mayfair Spa Resort & Casino, The Elgin Nor-Khill
- Mid-range: Summit Namnang Courtyard, The Royal Plaza
- Budget: Tag Along Backpackers, Denzong Inn, Zostel
Food in Gangtok:
- Savor momos, thukpa, Sikkimese noodle soup, and local beer (Tongba).
- Best eateries: Taste of Tibet, Nimtho, Roll House
Pro Tips:
- Book permits for Nathula and Tsomgo Lake in advance.
- Weather changes rapidly—carry warm layers.
- Respect local customs and be mindful in monasteries.
9. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh – Monastic Majesty
How to Reach Tawang:
- By Air: Nearest airport is Tezpur Airport (330 km), but Guwahati Airport (480 km) offers better access.
- By Rail: Closest railway station is Tezpur or Guwahati.
- By Road: Long but scenic journey from Guwahati via Bomdila; hire taxis or take shared jeeps.
Things to See and Do in Tawang:
- Marvel at the grand Tawang Monastery, Asia’s second-largest.
- Visit the serene Madhuri Lake and PT Tso Lake.
- Pay respects at the Tawang War Memorial.
- Explore Bumla Pass near the Indo-China border (permit needed).
- Enjoy the local Buddhist culture and festivals.
Accommodation in Tawang:
- Luxury: Dondrub Homestay (local boutique), Hotel Tawang Heights
- Mid-range: Hotel Zambala, Dolma Khangsar Guest House
- Budget: Monpa Homestays, Snow Lion
Food in Tawang:
- Sample Monpa cuisine like Zan and Thenthuk, as well as Tibetan momos.
- Popular joints: Dragon Restaurant, Dharma Coffee House
Pro Tips:
- You need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to enter Arunachal Pradesh.
- Roads are rough—travel only in sturdy vehicles.
- Acclimatize properly; altitudes are high and cold.
10. Coorg, Karnataka – The Scotland of India
How to Reach Coorg:
- By Air: Nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport (160 km); Kannur Airport (90 km) is closer for some routes.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Mysore (120 km).
- By Road: Well-connected by road from Bangalore, Mysore, and Mangalore.
Things to See and Do in Coorg:
- Visit Abbey Falls, Dubare Elephant Camp, and Namdroling Monastery.
- Go river rafting in Barapole River.
- Enjoy coffee plantation tours and nature walks.
- Hike to Tadiandamol Peak, the highest in Coorg.
Accommodation in Coorg:
- Luxury: Evolve Back, The Tamara Coorg
- Mid-range: Coorg Cliffs Resort, Purple Palms Resort
- Budget: Zostel Coorg, homestays and plantation stays
Food in Coorg:
- Try local Coorgi pork curry, bamboo shoot curry, and pandi curry.
- Top places: Coorg Cuisine, Raintree Restaurant, Tiger Tiger
Pro Tips:
- Ideal for both couples and adventure lovers.
- Book plantation stays in advance during peak summer.
- Early morning treks offer best views and cooler temperatures.
11. Auli, Uttarakhand – The Snowy Retreat
How to Reach Auli:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (286 km).
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh (260 km).
- By Road: Accessible by road from Joshimath; take the cable car or drive up to Auli from there.
Things to See and Do in Auli:
- Ride the scenic Auli ropeway, one of the longest in Asia.
- Enjoy panoramic views from Gorson Bugyal and Auli Artificial Lake.
- Visit Nanda Devi National Park.
- Go trekking and hiking through alpine meadows.
- Winter is for skiing, but summer offers lush meadows and cool weather.
Accommodation in Auli:
- Luxury: The Cliff Top Club Resort, Blue Poppy Resorts
- Mid-range: GMVN Auli Tourist Bungalow, Mountain Rover
- Budget: Guest houses and eco-camps in Joshimath
Food in Auli:
- Limited local eateries; resorts usually offer North Indian and Garhwali cuisine.
- Try Garhwali dishes like Chainsoo, Aloo ke Gutke.
Pro Tips:
- Summer is perfect for trekking and nature walks.
- Carry light woolens; even in summer, nights can be chilly.
- The ropeway closes in bad weather—check conditions in advance.
12. Mount Abu, Rajasthan – The Desert State’s Hill Station
How to Reach Mount Abu:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Maharana Pratap Airport, Udaipur (185 km).
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Abu Road (28 km).
- By Road: Well-connected by buses and taxis from Udaipur, Ahmedabad, and Jaipur.
Things to See and Do in Mount Abu:
- Visit the exquisite Dilwara Temples, known for their marble carvings.
- Boating at Nakki Lake.
- Enjoy sunset views from Sunset Point and Honeymoon Point.
- Trek to Guru Shikhar, the highest peak in Rajasthan.
- Explore the Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary.
Accommodation in Mount Abu:
- Luxury: Palace Hotel (Bikaner House), Cama Rajputana Club Resort
- Mid-range: Hotel Hillock, Hotel Hilltone
- Budget: Hotel Mamta Palace, youth hostels and guest houses
Food in Mount Abu:
- Rajasthani thali, dal baati churma, and spicy curries.
- Best eats: Jodhpur Bhojanalaya, Opa Restaurant, Chacha Inn
Pro Tips:
- Mount Abu is pleasant even in peak summer—pack for mild weather.
- Weekends attract crowds from Gujarat; weekdays are quieter.
- Local sightseeing is best done by hired scooters or walking tours.
13. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu – Princess of Hill Stations
How to Reach Kodaikanal:
- By Air: Nearest airport is Madurai Airport (120 km).
- By Rail: The closest railway station is Kodai Road (80 km).
- By Road: Accessible via scenic ghat roads from Madurai and Coimbatore.
Things to See and Do in Kodaikanal:
- Walk around the serene Kodaikanal Lake.
- Visit Coaker’s Walk, Pillar Rocks, and Bryant Park.
- Hike to Dolphin’s Nose and Berijam Lake.
- Enjoy waterfalls like Silver Cascade Falls.
Accommodation in Kodaikanal:
- Luxury: The Tamara Kodai, Carlton Hotel
- Mid-range: JC Residency, Kodai Resort Hotel
- Budget: Zostel Kodaikanal, hostels, homestays
Food in Kodaikanal:
- South Indian meals, Tibetan food, and chocolate fudge are popular.
- Recommended: Astoria Veg, Tava Vegetarian Restaurant, Altaf’s Café
Pro Tips:
- Carry warm clothes—nights can be chilly.
- Early morning walks are ideal for misty views.
- Weekdays are less crowded and more peaceful.
14. Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh – The Deserted Beauty
How to Reach Spiti Valley:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport (245 km) near Kullu.
- By Rail: Closest railhead is Shimla (445 km); limited access.
- By Road: From Manali via Kunzum Pass (open May–Oct) or from Shimla via Kinnaur (longer but open longer).
Things to See and Do in Spiti:
- Explore ancient monasteries like Key, Dhankar, and Tabo.
- Visit Chandratal Lake and Pin Valley National Park.
- Experience village stays in Komic, Langza, and Hikkim.
- Trekking, stargazing, and high-altitude driving.
Accommodation in Spiti:
- Luxury: Very limited – some boutique guesthouses in Kaza
- Mid-range: Hotel Sakya Abode, Spiti Valley Hotel
- Budget: Homestays and Zostel Spiti
Food in Spiti:
- Try thukpa, tsampa, momos, and seabuckthorn juice.
- Local eateries serve simple but hearty meals.
Pro Tips:
- Carry cash – ATMs are rare.
- Network connectivity is poor – inform family in advance.
- Acclimatization is crucial—take it slow to avoid AMS.
15. Valley of Flowers, Uttarakhand – A Blooming Paradise
How to Reach Valley of Flowers:
- By Air: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (295 km).
- By Rail: Closest railway station is Rishikesh (276 km).
- By Road: Reach Govindghat by road, then trek 13 km to Ghangaria, the base. Another 4 km trek leads to the Valley.
Things to See and Do in Valley of Flowers:
- Explore the UNESCO-listed Valley of Flowers National Park.
- Visit nearby Hemkund Sahib, a sacred Sikh pilgrimage.
- Enjoy lush landscapes, alpine flowers, and pristine rivers.
- Bird watching and nature photography.
Accommodation in Valley of Flowers:
- No hotels inside the park. Stay in Ghangaria:
- Mid-range: Hotel Priya, GMVN Guest House
- Budget: Basic lodges and campsites
Food in Valley of Flowers:
- Limited food options in Ghangaria—vegetarian North Indian meals mostly.
- Carry snacks and water for the trek.
Pro Tips:
- Open only from June to early October—peak bloom is July–August.
- Trek requires moderate fitness; good shoes are essential.
- Plastic is banned—carry eco-friendly supplies.
Final Travel Tips
- Book early: Summer is peak travel season in many of these hill stations.
- Pack light, but warm: Even summer nights can get chilly in the mountains.
- Plan activities wisely: High-altitude destinations may require acclimatization.
- Respect local customs and environment.
Conclusion
India offers a refreshing array of cool and captivating destinations during the summer months.
From the snow-laced peaks of Ladakh to the serene tea gardens of Munnar, these 15 places highlight the incredible diversity and beauty of India in summer.
So pack your bags, plan your route, and escape the heat in one of these unforgettable travel spots!
