India’s summer can be brutal, but the right destination makes all the difference. Whether you crave snow-capped peaks, lush green landscapes, or cool hill stations, there’s a perfect summer getaway waiting for you. Here’s a list of the top summer destinations in India that offer a refreshing break from the heat.
Top Summer Destinations in North & East India
1. Leh
Leh is a dream destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Famous for its stunning landscapes, monasteries, and thrilling road trips, Leh offers a surreal summer escape.
Best time to visit Leh during summer
May to September is ideal when the roads are open, and the weather is pleasant.
How to visit Leh?
Fly to Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport or take a road trip from Manali or Srinagar.
2. Kashmir
Kashmir, often called ‘Paradise on Earth,’ is known for its breathtaking valleys, houseboats, and pristine lakes.
Best time to visit Kashmir during summer
April to June when the valley is in full bloom.
How to visit Kashmir?
Fly to Srinagar Airport or take a train to Jammu followed by a road journey.
3. Shimla
The capital of Himachal Pradesh, Shimla, is known for colonial architecture, Mall Road, and scenic beauty.
Best time to visit Shimla during summer
March to June when the weather is cool and refreshing.
How to visit Shimla?
Take a flight to Chandigarh, then a road trip or enjoy the scenic Kalka-Shimla toy train ride.
4. Manali
A haven for backpackers and honeymooners, Manali is famous for its picturesque valleys, adventure sports, and vibrant culture.
Best time to visit Manali during summer
March to June when the snow melts, making it perfect for sightseeing and adventure.
How to reach Manali?
Fly to Bhuntar Airport or take a bus from Delhi or Chandigarh.
5. Mcleodganj
Known as ‘Little Lhasa,’ Mcleodganj is home to the Dalai Lama and offers a unique Tibetan vibe.
Best time to visit Mcleodganj during summer
March to June when the climate is perfect for trekking.
How to reach Mcleodganj?
The nearest railway station is Pathankot, followed by a short road trip.
6. Ranikhet
A charming hill station in Uttarakhand, Ranikhet is known for its pine forests, temples, and breathtaking views.
Best time to visit Ranikhet during summer
April to June when the weather is cool and pleasant.
How to reach Ranikhet?
The nearest railway station is Kathgodam, from where a road journey takes you to Ranikhet.
7. Auli
Famous for skiing in winter, Auli transforms into a lush green paradise in summer, offering stunning views of the Himalayas.
Best time to visit Auli during summer
April to June for a cool retreat and outdoor activities.
How to reach Auli?
Take a train to Haridwar or Dehradun, followed by a scenic road trip.
8. Almora
A picturesque hill station in Uttarakhand, Almora is known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and wildlife.
Best time to visit Almora during summer
April to June when nature is at its best.
How to reach Almora?
The nearest railway station is Kathgodam, followed by a road trip.
9. Kalimpong
A hidden gem in West Bengal, Kalimpong is known for its monasteries, orchids, and panoramic views of the Himalayas.
Best time to visit Kalimpong during summer
March to June when the weather is cool and refreshing.
How to reach Kalimpong?
The nearest airport is Bagdogra, followed by a road trip.
10. Darjeeling
The ‘Queen of the Hills’ is famous for its tea gardens, toy train, and spectacular views of Kanchenjunga.
Best time to visit Darjeeling during summer
April to June for clear skies and pleasant weather.
How to reach Darjeeling?
Take a flight to Bagdogra and then a scenic road or toy train ride.
11. Gangtok
Sikkim’s capital, Gangtok, offers a mix of modern city vibes and traditional monasteries with mesmerizing mountain views.
Best time to visit Gangtok during summer
March to June when the valleys are lush green.
How to reach Gangtok?
Fly to Bagdogra Airport, followed by a road trip.
12. Shillong
Known as the ‘Scotland of the East,’ Shillong is famous for its waterfalls, lakes, and vibrant music scene.
Best time to visit Shillong during summer
March to June for a refreshing escape.
How to visit Shillong?
Fly to Guwahati and take a road trip.
Top Summer Destinations in South & West India
13. Mount Abu
The only hill station in Rajasthan, Mount Abu is famous for its cool climate, Dilwara Temples, and Nakki Lake.
Best time to visit Mount Abu
March to June when the weather is pleasant.
How to reach Mount Abu?
The nearest railway station is Abu Road, followed by a road trip.
14. Lonavala
A popular getaway from Mumbai and Pune, Lonavala is known for its green hills, waterfalls, and historic forts.
Best time to visit Lonavala
June to September for monsoon beauty or October to May for cool weather.
How to reach Lonavala?
Take a train or drive from Mumbai or Pune.
15. Mahabaleshwar
Famous for strawberries, scenic viewpoints, and ancient temples, Mahabaleshwar is a picturesque hill retreat.
Best time to visit Mahabaleshwar
March to June for a pleasant summer escape.
How to reach Mahabaleshwar?
The nearest railway station is Wathar, with road connectivity from Pune and Mumbai.
16. Coorg
Known as the ‘Scotland of India,’ Coorg offers coffee plantations, waterfalls, and a pleasant climate year-round.
Best time to visit Coorg
October to March for cool weather, but summer is also pleasant.
How to reach Coorg?
Fly to Mangalore or take a road trip from Bangalore.
17. Chikmagalur
A paradise for coffee lovers and trekkers, Chikmagalur is filled with lush green landscapes and serene hilltops.
Best time to visit Chikmagalur
September to May for the best weather.
How to reach Chikmagalur?
Fly to Mangalore or take a train to Kadur, followed by a road trip.
18. Ooty
One of the most famous hill stations in South India, Ooty is known for its tea gardens, botanical gardens, and scenic toy train rides.
Best time to visit Ooty
March to June for pleasant weather.
How to reach Ooty?
The nearest airport is Coimbatore, followed by a scenic drive.
19. Yercaud
A budget-friendly hill station in Tamil Nadu with stunning viewpoints and coffee plantations.
Best time to visit Yercaud
October to June for a comfortable climate.
How to reach Yercaud?
The nearest railway station is Salem, followed by a road trip.
20. Munnar
A serene hill station in Kerala famous for its tea plantations and cool climate.
Best time to visit Munnar
September to March for the best experience.
How to reach Munnar?
Fly to Kochi and take a scenic road trip.
Related Packages on Ghum India Ghum
- Rajasthan Tours
- North India Tour Packages
- Himachal Tour Packages
- Kerala Tour Packages
- Kashmir Leh Tour Packages
- Uttarakhand Tour Packages
- South India Tour Packages
FAQ | Summer Destinations in India
1. Which is the coldest summer destination in India? Leh and Auli offer the coldest climate during summer.
2. What are the best hill stations for summer vacations in India? Shimla, Manali, Ooty, and Darjeeling are among the best.
3. Which is the best place to visit in South India during summer? Munnar, Coorg, and Ooty are popular choices.
4. Are there any summer destinations in India with snow? Leh and Auli might still have patches of snow in early summer.
5. What is the most budget-friendly summer destination in India? McLeodganj and Ranikhet offer affordable stays and experiences.
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