Looking to escape the scorching summer heat? Look no further! India offers a diverse range of summer destinations that cater to every taste. While Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand are renowned for their serene hill stations up north, states like Maharashtra, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu boast picturesque coastal getaways.
India’s summer season, which runs from April to June, is ideal for holiday planning. Whether you crave the tranquility of the Himalayan retreats or the refreshing hill stations in the southern part of the country, there’s something for everyone. Allow us to guide you through some of India’s most popular summer destinations.
A Detailed List Of Top Indian Destinations You Must Visit During The Summers
Curious about where to spend your next summer vacation? Get ready to be pleasantly surprised! This list will provide you with all the information you need about some of the most popular summer destinations in India. So, gear up for an unforgettable trip ahead!
Popular summer destinations in North India
Many known summer places in North India, such as the peaceful hill towns of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, are readily accessible for travelers who want to avoid the heat.. Whether you seek tranquillity or adventure, these destinations have something for everyone looking to beat the scorching temperatures.
Leh
Leh, renowned as one of India’s top summer destinations, captivates with its unparalleled beauty. Home to breathtaking monasteries like Thiksey and Hemis, cultural landmarks such as Leh Palace and the vibrant Leh Market, there’s no shortage of places to explore. Magnetic Hill offers a unique spectacle where gravity seems to defy logic. Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in thrilling treks like the famous Chadar Trek across Leh’s rugged terrain.
Best Time to Visit Leh in Summer:
The ideal time to visit Leh is from May to September when the weather is pleasant and roads are accessible, facilitating easy exploration of this remote Himalayan region.
How to Reach Leh:
- By Air: Fly to Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL) from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Srinagar. IndiGo operates flights during peak season. Taxis or pre-booked transfers are available from the airport to Leh.
- By Road: State-run and private buses connect Leh with towns like Manali, Srinagar, and Keylong from May to October. As an alternative, rent a vehicle in Leh or Srinagar and go via
- From Srinagar: Srinagar-Leh Highway (NH1D) offers a scenic route through Zoji La Pass.
- From Manali: Manali-Leh Highway (NH3) traverses through Rohtang Pass and Baralacha La Pass from June to September.
Kashmir: Paradise on Earth
Amir Khusrau’s words resonate truthfully about Kashmir, hailed as one of India’s most sought-after summer destinations. The valley boasts Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Srinagar, each contributing uniquely to Kashmir’s allure. Activities abound, from tranquil boating on Dal Lake to exhilarating skiing in Gulmarg, all amidst Kashmir’s breathtaking vistas.
Best Time to Visit Kashmir in Summer:
The best time to visit Kashmir is from March to August, encompassing both spring and summer. The weather during these months is pleasant, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the scenic beauty of the region.
How to Reach Kashmir:
- By Air: Fly to Srinagar International Airport (SXR) from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. IndiGo offers regular flights, ensuring convenient access to Kashmir. Taxis or pre-booked transfers are available from the airport to Srinagar and other parts of Kashmir.
- By Road: Opt for a scenic road journey if you prefer overland travel. Rent a car or take state-run/private buses operating between Jammu and Srinagar. The bus journey takes about 10-12 hours, depending on road conditions.
- By Train: Go to Leh Tawi Railway Station, the closest major station, as there are no direct trains to Kashmir. From Jammu, continue your journey to Srinagar or other parts of Kashmir by road.
Shimla: Queen of the Hills
Shimla enchants visitors with its timeless beauty, making it one of India’s most popular summer destinations. Ideal for couples, families, friends, and solo travelers alike, Shimla offers a range of experiences. Whether shopping along Mall Road, visiting the iconic Mansa Devi Temple, or capturing stunning sunsets from the ridge, every moment here feels like a blessing.
Best Time to Visit Shimla in Summer:
March to June are the ideal months to visit Shimla due to the excellent weather and the openness of most sightseeing spots.
How to Reach Shimla:
By Air: The closest airport is Chandigarh Airport (IXC), approximately 113 kilometers away. From there, take a taxi or bus to Shimla. Major Indian cities are easily accessible by the Chandigarh Airport.
By Train: Shimla is connected to Kalka via the UNESCO World Heritage Kalka-Shimla Railway. Reach Kalka from cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, and Amritsar by train. From Kalka, enjoy a scenic journey aboard the toy train, a narrow-gauge railway winding through picturesque mountains to Shimla.
By Road: Drive from cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, or Manali, or take a bus operated by Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) or private operators from nearby towns. Regular bus services connect Shimla to Delhi, Chandigarh, and Manali.
Manali: Gateway to the Himalayas
Nestled amidst the snow-capped Himalayan ranges, Manali lives up to its hype from Bollywood’s ‘Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani’. This ultra-touristy destination offers a perfect escape from summer heat, with breathtaking views from Rohtang Pass, thrilling zorbing experiences, and glimpses into local life. Each day in Manali promises blissful memories.
Best Time to Visit Manali in Summer:
The best time to visit Manali is from March to June when the weather is pleasant, perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and camping.
How to Reach Manali:
By Air: The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport (KUU), also known as Kullu-Manali Airport, located about 50 kilometers away. Flights to Bhuntar are available from Chandigarh, providing easy access to Manali.
By Train: Chandigarh Railway Station (CDG), around 310 km from Manali, India, is the closest major train stop.. Chandigarh is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata by train. From Chandigarh, take a taxi or bus to reach Manali.
- By Road: New Delhi, Chandigarh, and Shimla make up the cities with good road links to Himachal.
You can hire a rental vehicle, a taxi, or take a bus operated by Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) or private operators. Regular bus services run to Manali from Delhi, Chandigarh, and Shimla.
Also Read: Exploring The Enchanting Beauty Of Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Popular summer destinations in South India
Lonavala: Nature’s Retreat in Maharashtra
Nestled amidst the Sahyadri ranges, Lonavala is a favorite among nature enthusiasts, especially from Mumbai. This picturesque hill station offers luxurious resorts amidst serene natural surroundings and a chance to explore attractions like Bhaja Caves, Bushi Dam, Karla Caves, and Rajmachi Fort.
Best Time to Visit Lonavala in Summer:
The best time to visit Lonavala is from March to June when the weather is pleasantly warm, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
How to Reach Lonavala:
- By Air: Pune Airport (PNQ), approximately 65 kilometers away, is the nearest airport. Flights to Pune are available from major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad. From Pune Airport, hire a taxi or take a bus to Lonavala.
- By Train: Lonavala has its own railway station, Lonavala Railway Station (LNL), well-connected to Mumbai and Pune. Numerous daily trains run between Mumbai and Lonavala, offering a convenient travel option.
- By Road: Government-owned and private busses from nearby cities connect to nearby towns without simplicity. Hire a taxi or cab from airports, railway stations, or bus terminals for a comfortable journey to Lonavala.
Ooty
Nestled in the beautiful Nilgiri hills, Ooty, referred to as Udhagamandalam, is crowded in the summer months as people seek relief from the rising heat. One of the most popular getaway spots in India is this classic hill village, which has a large tea plant. The mishmash of captivating peaks and alluring lakes are sure To motivate you to come back here, and each time you look at Ooty, you will fall even more in affection for it. Doddabetta Peak, Tea Factory, Ooty Lake, and Muniswara Temple are some places you must explore in Ooty.
best time to visit Ooty is during the summer
The pleasant months of March to June are a great time for seeing Ooty. Ooty’s relaxed coolness makes it an ideal spot to see popular attractions such as lakes, overlooks, and botanical gardens.
How to reach Ooty?
Tamil Nadu’s Ooty is a beautiful hill station. You may go to this charming location in a car, bus, or on the quaint Toy Train. Here’s how you can get in contact with Ooty:
- By plane: Coimbatore International Airport (CJB), which is around 88 kilometers away, is the closest airport to Ooty.
- By train: The nearest train station to Ooty is Mettupalayam Railway Station (MTP), which is around 46 kilometers distant.To visit Ooty, you can board the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, generally called the Toy Train, from Mettupalayam. Or opt for taxis and buses.
- By road: Cities like Coimbatore, Bangalore, and Mysore are well connected to Ooty via roadways.To get to Ooty from nearby towns or cities, you can take a bus.
Munnar:
Tucked back in Kerala’s Western Ghats, Munnar is a charming hill town known for its foggy hills, lush tea plantations, and peaceful surroundings. This popular getaway spot in India entices visitors with its refreshing climate and stunning scenery, offering a lovely hideaway into the embrace of nature.
Best Time to Visit Munnar in Summer:
The best time to visit Munnar is from March to May when the weather is pleasantly cool, ideal for exploring lush tea plantations, scenic valleys, and cascading waterfalls. Summer in Munnar also coincides with the blooming of Neelakurinji flowers, a rare event that occurs once every twelve years, adding to its allure.
How to Reach Munnar:
- By Air: Cochin International Airport (COK), approximately 110 kilometers away, is the nearest airport. From Cochin Airport, hire a taxi or take a bus to Munnar, enjoying a scenic 3 to 4-hour journey.
- By Train: Aluva Railway Station (AWY), about 110 kilometers away, is the nearest railhead.Major cities like Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, and Chennai are readily accessible by train from Aluva.
- By Road: Munnar is well-connected by road to cities like Kochi, Coimbatore, and Madurai. Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and private bus services operate regular services to Munnar. Travel by bus for a convenient and scenic route to this hill station.
