Planning a summer vacation in India is not an easy task as the incredible diversity of the country with a long list of places to visit makes the task of choosing a particular destination difficult.
From tea plantations to the tropical islands, and the beautiful valleys overlooking the Himalayas, there is no dearth of options when it comes to deciding on exploring the most interesting places in India to visit during summer.
Finding a perfect destination may seem challenging, especially when you have a long list of places. To make things easier for you, here is a list of our best picks for a cool and refreshing summer holiday in India.
So, let’s scroll through the list of the most interesting places to visit to help you decide your next best destination for taking a trip to India this summer.
#1. Manali
Located in Himachal Pradesh, at an elevation of over 2050 meters above sea level, Manali is a blissful hill station and is one of the most visited tourist spots. It is not only beautiful but also has superb weather all year round, and when you feel irritated in the hot and sultry months of May, June, and July, it remains calm and relaxed.
The place has a lot to offer to anyone who visits India. It does not matter if you are looking forward to enjoying the mighty sceneries of nature or seeking an adventure-filled trip because Manali is perfect for both.
How to Reach:
- Road Trip: Manali is 536 Kms from Delhi and 288 Kms from Chandigarh
- The nearest airport is Bhuntar (50 km away from Manali)
Things to do:
- Explore Rohtang pass and play in the snow
- Admire the beauty of migratory birds in a sanctuary nearby
- Try quad biking, paragliding, zorbing, etc.
#2. Ladakh
Popularly known as the ‘Land of High Passes,’ Ladakh is visited by tourists in high numbers, every year. The enchanting beauty and natural charm of Ladakh make it a dream destination for many. Not only this, the glorious mountain peaks, lush forests, sparkling rivers, and pictorial meadows paints the picture leading to its perfection.
The abundance of attractions and fabulous landscapes makes it land like no other.
Besides this, it is an ideal vacation spot for every bike lover, and bikers can be seen exploring the beauty of this place almost every time of the year.
How to Reach:
- Road trip: Delhi lies nearby (around 1300 km) to Ladakh. So, if you are planning to reach Ladakh via Road, then you may start your exciting journey from Delhi.
- Via Train: Jammu Tawi railway is closest (around 700 km away) to the Leh city in Ladakh.
- Leh airport in Ladakh is well-connected to cities like Delhi and Chandigarh.
Things to do:
- Nothing can be the experience of rocky routes of Ladakh on an Enfield. So, give it a try.
- Feel at peace by experiencing sheer serenity beside Pangong Tso Lake.
- Hop on for a camel ride through the dunes of Nubra valley.
#3. Shimla
Another well-known and frequently visited hill station in India is Shimla. Besides perfectly capturing British elegance and Indian magnificence, this area is blessed with fantastic weather. Loaded with a rich history and natural beauty, it is relaxing a treat for anyone looking for a vacation to soother their body and brain.
It is one of the coolest places in India during summer and some of the famous attractions to explore here include Himalayan Bird Park, Christ Church, Mall Road, Gaiety Theatre, Jhaku Hill, Museum, and many more.
How to Reach:
- Nearest rail route: Kalka
- Nearest airport: Chandigarh (115 Km away).
- Road trip: 115 km from Chandigarh and 360 km away from Delhi.
Things to do:
- Shop at the Mall road
- Visit Jhaku Mandir
- Explore Viceregal Lodge (one of the major attractions in Shimla) which was built during the British reign.
- If you have a thing for Polo, then stop over at Annandale which is 4 km away from the Ridge.
#4. Nainital
Merely at a distance of 4 hours from Delhi, Nainital is a beautiful summer destination. The picturesque view of rolling hills and amazing weather makes it one of the most visited places in India.
The destination is always bustling with tourists because people generally come here to beat the heat and spend some time cold time.
How to Reach:
- The nearest airport from Nainital is Pantnagar (at a distance of 60 Km).
- Kathgodam is the nearest railway station from Nainital (at a distance of only 20 Km).
- The nearest major city from Nainital is Delhi with a range of around 300 Km.
Things to do:
- Bird-watching in Pangot and Kilbury Bird sanctuary.
- Enjoy boating- One of the best things to do in Nainital.
- Take a trek to tiffin top for a breathtaking view of sunrise or sunset.
#5. Auli
One of the less explored hill stations in India, Auli is located in the Nothern state of Uttarakhand. Situated in the bassinet of snow-capped mountains, it is one of the few places in India where skiing is a major sport and is the new entrant on the tourist map of the country.
So, if you are looking forward to exploring a place that offers both adventure and a serene experience, then Auli should be on your list already.
How to Reach:
- Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the nearest Airport (at a distance of around 280 Km).
- The nearest railhead is in Rishikesh (at a distance of approximately 235 Km).
- The nearest major city from Auli is Delhi (at a distance of around 500 Km).
Things to do:
- Take an adventurous trek to Gorson and Kuari pass.
- Travel to Joshimath onboard the railway and enjoy a bird’s-eye view.
Wrapping it Up
When it comes to tourist destinations, India is loaded with them, which makes it hard for people to decide which places to visit on their next trip. Well, I hope that the above-stated locations might have given you an idea about where to cool yourself off in the coming summer.
Also, choose the place wisely because each destination mentioned above is heaven in itself. We like to hear from you, and if you know about any other incredibly fantastic spots to explore, feel free to write in the comment section below.
