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Popular summer destinations in India
Looking to escape the scorching summer heat? Discover these amazing summer getaways across India! While online searches often highlight northern hill stations like Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, don’t overlook the stunning coastal retreats in Maharashtra, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.
India’s summer season runs from April to June, making it the ideal time for a refreshing vacation. Whether you prefer the serene heights of the Himalayas in the north or the cool, breezy hill stations down south, India offers a diverse range of options for every traveller. To simplify your planning, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to the country’s most sought-after summer destinations.
- Note: We’ve categorised India’s hill stations into Northern and Southern regions for easier exploration.
Planning your next summer escape? Don’t worry—this curated list of popular and offbeat summer destinations in India will help you craft an unforgettable adventure!
Popular summer destinations in North India
North India boasts numerous popular summer escapes, featuring tranquil hill stations in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand. Whether you seek serenity or adventure, this region offers a perfect retreat from the blazing heat for every traveller.
1. Leh
Leh stands out as a must-visit summer destination in India, offering unforgettable experiences and breathtaking sights to make your journey truly memorable. Explore iconic monasteries like Thiksey Monastery and Hemis Monastery, and marvel at landmarks such as Shanti Stupa and Leh Palace. Don’t miss the intriguing Magnetic Hill, where gravity seems to defy logic. Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in exhilarating treks, including the renowned Chadar Trek, navigating Leh’s rugged and stunning terrain.
The best time to visit Leh is during the summer.
The best time to visit Leh is from May to September, when the weather is pleasant and the roads are accessible, ensuring smooth travel to this remote Himalayan paradise. Summer offers clear skies—ideal for outdoor adventures and soaking in the stunning landscapes of Ladakh.
How to visit Leh?
Due to its remote Himalayan location, reaching Leh typically involves travel by air or road. Here’s a quick guide on how you can make your way to this stunning destination:
- By air: You can book flights to Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL) from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Srinagar to reach Leh. Airlines like IndiGo operate regular flights, especially during the busy tourist season from May to September. Upon arrival, taxis and pre-booked transfers are readily available to take you to your accommodation in Leh.
- By road: In the summer months, both government and private buses operate between Leh and nearby towns like Manali, Srinagar, and Keylong. These bus services offer a budget-friendly option for travellers who prefer overland journeys and don’t mind the long, winding mountain roads.
You can also choose to rent a car from Srinagar or Manali. The two main road routes to Leh are:
- From Srinagar: The Srinagar-Leh Highway (NH1D) remains open from May to October, offering a stunning journey through the Kashmir Valley, the dramatic Zoji La Pass, and the breathtaking landscapes of the Ladakh region.
- From Manali: The Manali-Leh Highway (NH3) is accessible from June to September, winding through the stunning landscapes of Himachal Pradesh, featuring iconic spots like Rohtang Pass and Baralacha La Pass.
2. Kashmir
As Amir Khusrau famously said, “If there is paradise on earth, it is here, it is here, it is here.” The Kashmir Valley truly stands as one of India’s most sought-after summer destinations, with enchanting spots like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Srinagar enriching its charm. While visiting, indulge in a serene boat ride on Dal Lake, experience the thrill of skiing in Gulmarg, or simply unwind and soak up the breathtaking scenery of Kashmir.
The best time to visit Kashmir is during the summer.
The best time to visit Kashmir is between March and August, when the weather is mild and pleasant, ideal for outdoor adventures and sightseeing. Spanning the spring and summer months, this period lets you experience the true, vibrant beauty of Kashmir.
How to visit Kashmir?
You can choose your mode of transport based on your Kashmir destination. Here’s a guide on how to travel around this beautiful region:
- By air: The simplest way to reach Kashmir is by air. Book your flight to Srinagar International Airport (SXR), which connects well with major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. Airlines such as IndiGo operate frequent flights, making travel convenient for visitors. Upon arrival, you can easily find a taxi or pre-arranged transfer to your accommodation in Srinagar or anywhere else in Kashmir.
- By road: If you enjoy road trips and want to experience breathtaking scenery, driving to Kashmir is a great option. You can rent a car or opt for state-run or private buses that operate between Jammu and Srinagar, offering a budget-friendly choice for travellers. The bus journey typically takes around 10-12 hours, though travel time may vary depending on road conditions and traffic.
- By train: While there’s no direct train service to Kashmir, you can take a train to Jammu Tawi Railway Station, the nearest major station. From Jammu, you can embark on a scenic road journey to Srinagar or other destinations within Kashmir.
3. Shimla
Shimla’s timeless charm captivates every visitor at every turn. As one of India’s premier summer destinations, it’s ideal for couples, families, friends, and solo travellers alike. Whether you’re leisurely exploring Mall Road for shopping or paying a visit to the revered Mansa Devi Temple, every experience here feels truly special. Don’t miss the breathtaking sunset views from the Ridge during your stay.
The best time to visit Shimla during summer
The best time to visit Shimla is during the summer months, when the weather is pleasant and attractions are fully open. Plan your trip between March and June for the most enjoyable experience.
How to visit Shimla?
Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh, is accessible via road or the famous toy train. Here’s a quick guide on how to get to this charming hill station:
- By air: The closest airport to Shimla is Chandigarh Airport (IXC), located approximately 113 kilometres away. From Chandigarh, you can conveniently hire a taxi or take a bus to Shimla. Chandigarh Airport offers excellent connectivity to major cities across India.
- By train: The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Kalka-Shimla Railway connects Shimla to Kalka, which is well-linked by train to major cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, and Amritsar. From Kalka, embark on the charming toy train journey—a narrow-gauge railway that winds through breathtaking mountains and valleys en route to Shimla.
- By road: You can reach Shimla by driving from cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, and Manali, or opt for bus travel from nearby towns and cities. The Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) along with private operators provide regular and reliable bus services connecting Shimla to these destinations.
4. Manali
Manali, famously showcased in Bollywood’s Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani, truly lives up to its reputation. Nestled among the snow-capped Himalayan peaks, it offers an ideal retreat from the summer heat. Revel in stunning vistas at Rohtang Pass, enjoy the thrill of zorbing, or dive into the vibrant rhythm of local life. Every moment spent in Manali is sheer bliss.
The best time to visit Manali is during the summer
The ideal time to visit Manali is between March and June, when the weather is pleasant and perfect for hiking, camping, and comfortably exploring outdoor attractions during the day.
How to reach Manali?
Getting to Manali is simple thanks to its popularity as a premier hill station in Himachal Pradesh. Multiple transport options make reaching this destination convenient. Here’s a guide on how to travel to Manali:
- By air: The nearest airport to Manali is Bhuntar Airport (KUU), also known as Kullu-Manali Airport, located approximately 50 kilometres away. Alternatively, you can fly into Chandigarh Airport and then continue your journey to Manali by road.
- By train: The nearest major railway station to Manali is Chandigarh Railway Station (CDG), situated around 310 kilometres away. Chandigarh boasts excellent train connections to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. From there, you can conveniently travel to Manali by taxi or bus.
- By road: Manali is well-connected to cities such as Delhi, Chandigarh, and Shimla. Travellers can reach Manali by renting a vehicle, hiring a taxi, or taking a bus from nearby towns and cities. The Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC), along with private bus operators, runs frequent and reliable services to Manali from destinations including Delhi, Chandigarh, and Shimla.
5. Gangtok
When discussing popular summer destinations in India, Gangtok stands out as a must-visit. Renowned for its breathtaking beauty, the city enjoys pleasant temperatures around 20°C during summer, drawing numerous travellers. Don’t miss iconic spots like Tsomgo Lake, Nathu La Pass, and the serene Tibetan monasteries. And for a truly authentic experience, be sure to savour the delicious local delicacies like momos and thukpa.
The best time to visit Gangtok is during the summer
The best time to visit Gangtok is from March to June, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing, trekking, and soaking in the stunning landscapes. Keep in mind that occasional summer showers can occur, so packing appropriate clothing and checking the weather forecast beforehand is recommended.
How to reach Gangtok?
Reaching Gangtok from anywhere in India is convenient, with multiple transportation options at your disposal. Here’s a quick guide on how to get to Gangtok:
- By air: To fly to Gangtok, you’ll need to land at Bagdogra Airport (IXB) in West Bengal, located approximately 125 kilometres away. This airport offers excellent connectivity to major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai. From Bagdogra, you can hire a taxi or arrange a shared cab to reach Gangtok comfortably.
- By train: The nearest major railway station to Gangtok is New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP), also known as Siliguri Railway Station, situated about 125 kilometres away. This station enjoys strong connections to major cities across India. From New Jalpaiguri, you can easily catch a bus to Gangtok.
- By Road: Gangtok enjoys excellent connectivity with cities like Siliguri, Darjeeling, and Kolkata. Regular bus services operated by both private and state-run companies run frequently from Siliguri, Darjeeling, and other key cities in the region.
- By shared jeep: From Siliguri, shared jeeps are a popular and cost-effective way to reach Gangtok. Faster than buses, these jeeps operate on fixed routes and schedules. It’s wise to check the timetable in advance and reserve your seat for a smooth journey.
6. Darjeeling
Dubbed the ‘Queen of the Himalayas,’ Darjeeling draws visitors from across India with its refreshing climate and mesmerising landscapes. Renowned for its sprawling tea gardens, dense forests, charming colonial architecture, and the iconic toy train, Darjeeling offers a tranquil retreat from city life. Be sure to soak in the awe-inspiring views of Mount Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest peak—an unforgettable experience that awaits you.
The best time to visit Darjeeling during summer
The ideal time to visit Darjeeling is between March and June, when the weather is pleasant and perfect for sightseeing and soaking in the stunning scenery of the city and its surroundings. Be sure to pack a light sweater for the cool evenings. Keep in mind that occasional summer rains may occur, so it’s wise to check the forecast before your trip.
How to reach Darjeeling?
Travelling to Darjeeling from Siliguri, West Bengal, is easy, thanks to multiple transportation options. Here’s a quick guide on how to reach Darjeeling:
- By air: To fly to Darjeeling, you’ll need to land at Bagdogra Airport (IXB) in West Bengal, located approximately 125 kilometres away. This airport offers excellent connectivity to major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai. From Bagdogra, you can easily hire a taxi or pre-book a shared cab to reach Darjeeling comfortably.
- By train: The nearest major railway station to Darjeeling is New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP). From NJP, you can experience the famous UNESCO World Heritage Toy Train ride to Darjeeling. New Jalpaiguri offers excellent rail connections to major cities across India. Alternatively, you can catch a bus from NJP to reach Darjeeling.
- By Road: Darjeeling enjoys strong road connectivity with cities such as Siliguri and Kolkata. Frequent bus services, operated by both private and state-run companies, run regularly between Siliguri and Darjeeling, as well as other major cities in the region.
- By shared jeep: From Siliguri, you can travel to Darjeeling via several shared jeeps, a popular and budget-friendly transportation option. These jeeps are faster than buses and operate on fixed routes and schedules. It’s advisable to check the timetable ahead of time and reserve your seat to ensure a smooth journey.
7. Auli
Auli isn’t just a winter wonderland—it’s also one of India’s premier summer destinations. Imagine soaking in stunning views of the Garhwal Himalayas on a warm summer day, enjoying an exhilarating ropeway ride, and even trying your hand at skiing. Sounds irresistible, right? With its vibrant meadows and lush green landscapes, Auli is the perfect escape for nature enthusiasts looking for an ideal summer retreat.
The best time to visit Auli is during the summer.
The best time to visit Auli in summer is from April to June, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities like trekking, camping, and sightseeing. By this period, most of the snow has melted, offering visitors clear and breathtaking views of the majestic Himalayan peaks and lush green surroundings. Keep in mind that occasional summer rains may occur, so it’s wise to pack suitable clothing and check the weather forecast before your trip.
How to reach Auli?
Auli is a favoured summer getaway in India, mainly reachable by road. However, you can also fly or take a train to nearby cities before continuing your journey. Here’s a guide on how to reach Auli:
- By air: The closest airport to Auli is Jolly Grant Airport (DED) in Dehradun, located about 279 kilometres away. Flights connect Jolly Grant to major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or catch a bus to reach Auli comfortably.
- By train: The nearest railway station to Auli is Haridwar Railway Station (HW), located approximately 273 kilometres away. Haridwar boasts excellent rail connectivity to major cities throughout India.
- By road: Buses run regularly to Joshimath, the nearest town to Auli. From Joshimath, you can take a cable car or hire a taxi to reach Auli. Both state-run and private buses frequently operate services to Joshimath from cities like Dehradun, Haridwar, and Rishikesh.
8. Almora
Nestled in the Himalayas, Almora captivates visitors with its timeless colonial charm. Surrounded by pristine natural beauty, this horseshoe-shaped hill station offers an authentic escape into nature’s splendour. Almora is home to significant spiritual sites like Nanda Devi and Patal Devi Temple. For those who enjoy shopping, don’t miss the chance to pick up unique artefacts from bustling spots such as Lal Bagh Market and Chowk Bazaar—perfect souvenirs for your loved ones.
The best time to visit Almora is during the summer
The best time to visit Almora in summer is from March to June, when the weather is pleasantly mild, making it ideal for exploring this scenic hill town. This period also showcases the region’s vibrant flora and fauna, with hills adorned in colourful flowers and lush greenery.
How to reach Almora?
The scenic hill station of Almora in Uttarakhand is conveniently accessible by road. There are also several other travel options to reach this charming destination. Here’s a guide on how to get to Almora:
- By air: To reach Almora, you can book flights to Pantnagar Airport (PGH), located approximately 125 kilometres away. This airport offers good connectivity to major cities such as Delhi and Dehradun. From Pantnagar, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Almora.
- By train: The nearest railway station to Almora is Kathgodam Railway Station (KGM), situated about 90 kilometres away. Kathgodam is well-connected to major cities including Delhi, Kolkata, and Lucknow.
- By road: Almora enjoys strong road connectivity with cities such as Delhi, Dehradun, and Haridwar. Well-maintained highways make driving to Almora a comfortable experience. Additionally, both state-run and private buses operate frequent and reliable services connecting Almora to these cities.
9. Kalimpong
Kalimpong, a cherished summer destination in India, once served as a key stop along the ancient Silk Route. This captivating hill station enchants visitors from all over with its stunning landscapes. Discover exotic wildlife at Neora Valley National Park and marvel at the crystal-clear, turquoise waters. For adventure lovers, rafting on the Teesta River promises an adrenaline rush, while engaging with the warm and welcoming locals offers fascinating cultural insights.
The best time to visit Kalimpong during summer
The best time to visit Kalimpong is between March and June, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing and enjoying the scenic beauty of the town and its surroundings. Evenings can get a bit chilly, so packing a light sweater is recommended.
How to reach Kalimpong?
Travelling to Kalimpong from Siliguri, West Bengal is simple, thanks to a variety of transportation options. Here’s a quick guide on how to reach Kalimpong:
- By air: To reach Kalimpong by air, fly into Bagdogra Airport (IXB) in West Bengal, located approximately 125 kilometres away. This airport offers strong connections to major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai. From Bagdogra, you can easily hire a taxi or pre-book a shared cab to get to Kalimpong comfortably.
- By train: The nearest major railway station to Kalimpong is New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP), which boasts excellent connections to major cities throughout India. From NJP, you can catch a bus to reach Kalimpong conveniently.
- By Road: Kalimpong is well-connected by road to cities such as Siliguri, Darjeeling, and Kolkata. Frequent bus services, operated by both private and state-run companies, run regularly from Siliguri and other major cities in the region to Kalimpong.
- By shared jeep: From Siliguri, numerous shared jeeps provide a popular and efficient way to reach Kalimpong. Faster and more affordable than other options, these jeeps operate on fixed routes and schedules. It’s advisable to check the timetable ahead and reserve your seat to ensure a hassle-free journey.
10. Mount Abu
As Rajasthan’s only hill station, Mount Abu provides a refreshing escape from the intense desert heat in summer. Famous for its exquisite Dilwara Temples, the destination appeals to both spiritual seekers and history enthusiasts, offering profound cultural insights. With its pleasant climate and diverse attractions, Mount Abu guarantees an unforgettable experience.
The best time to visit Mount Abu is during the summer
The best time to visit Mount Abu in summer is from March to June. It offers a refreshing break from the scorching heat of Rajasthan’s plains, with cool breezes and verdant landscapes. Be sure to pack appropriate clothing and check the weather forecast before your trip.
How do you reach Mount Abu?
Mount Abu, located close to Rajasthan’s vibrant city of Udaipur, is the state’s only hill station. It enjoys excellent connectivity with frequent bus services from various cities across Rajasthan and Delhi. Here’s a guide on how to reach Mount Abu:
- By air: The nearest airport to Mount Abu is Maharana Pratap Airport (UDR) in Udaipur, situated approximately 185 kilometres away. This airport offers flights to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Jaipur. The drive from Udaipur Airport to Mount Abu typically takes around 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
- By train: The nearest railway station to Mount Abu is Abu Road Railway Station (ABR), located about 28 kilometres away. From Abu Road, you can easily reach Mount Abu by taxi or bus.
- By road: Mount Abu is well-connected to cities like Udaipur and Jaipur. The Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) runs regular bus services to Mount Abu, while private operators offer frequent routes from cities including Udaipur, Ahmedabad, and Jaipur.
Conclusion
India boasts a vast array of enchanting destinations perfect for an unforgettable summer vacation. Whether you crave the peacefulness of hill stations, the calm of pristine beaches, or the thrill of wildlife sanctuaries, India offers something to satisfy every traveller’s unique taste.
From the breathtaking landscapes of Kashmir to the untouched shores of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, each location on our list guarantees memorable experiences and treasured moments. Explore the rich heritage of Rajasthan, embark on a spiritual quest in Uttarakhand, or enjoy exhilarating water sports in Goa—India’s diverse attractions cater to every interest and preference.
As you plan your summer escape, immerse yourself in each destination’s distinctive charm, wide range of activities, and vibrant local culture and cuisine to enrich your journey. Whether travelling solo, with family, or among friends, India’s rich tapestry of festivals, flavours, and traditions will inspire awe and ignite your curiosity to delve deeper into its cultural treasures.
So, with your bags packed and itinerary set, prepare to embark on a journey of discovery and adventure across India’s premier summer spots. Whether escaping the heat of the plains or seeking a refreshing change of scenery, India’s diverse landscapes and lively culture await your arrival, promising a summer vacation experience filled with excitement, anticipation, and lasting memories.
