Summer is the hottest season of the year in India but the vacations make it perfect to explore new places. It is the perfect time to go on a family vacation, with friends, or on a honeymoon. India is a beautiful country and blessed with snowy destinations, beaches, and what not!
The pleasant climate of the cold places makes it perfect to visit places in summer. From the beautiful Shimla & Manali to Ladakh, and from Kashmir to Auli, the cold places in India are the cool treat in the summer.
Here is a list of the best summer holiday destinations in India to help you to choose the perfect destination.
1) Shimla – Manali:
The capital of Himachal Pradesh, Shimla & Manali are some of the best cold places to visit in summer in India. Popular as the hill destination in India, Shimla is an old-world charm with beautiful colonial architecture, snow-capped hills, multiple shops, cafes, and restaurants. Shimla is known as one of the popular holiday destinations in India for family and friends. The ‘Queen of Hill Stations in Himachal Pradesh is a perfect getaway to enjoy summer holidays in India. The city is quite famous, and thousands of people visit Shimla every day. An ideal spot to enjoy the snow, one can enjoy cable car rides, a trekking trip, overnight camping in Shimla.
2) Leh-Ladakh:
Known as one of the best adventure places in India in summer, Leh-Ladakh is a perfect getaway, whether it is a family trip or a friend’s trip. Blessed with the mighty mountain peaks, the breathtaking views, the crystal-clear lakes- Ladakh is known as the world’s coldest desert. The Zanskar Valley, Pangong Tso Lake, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Khardung-La Pass, Spituk Gompa, and Hemis National Park are the best places to visit in Ladakh.
Ladakh is one of the best cold places to visit in the summer in India. A road trip to Leh-Ladakh will be a perfect thing to do with your friends.
3) Auli:
Set in the hills of Uttarakhand, Auli is one of the best summer holiday destinations in India. The pleasing climate, spellbinding views of the snow-draped mountains, lush green meadows, and trekking routes are the highlights of this town. The snow-capped mountain peaks make Auli one of the best places to visit in summer in India for couples. The Auli Artificial Lake, Chattrakund Lake, Joshimath, and monasteries are the best places to visit in Auli. A ropeway ride, trek to Auli Gorson, and skiing are some of the best things to do in Auli.
4) Nainital:
Set at an elevation of 1,938 m above sea level, Nainital is one of the places to visit in summer in India with friends. Situated in the lap of Uttarakhand, Nainital is a charming hill station. Offering the views of green hills, the Kumaon ranges in the Himalayas, snow-capped mountains, and many more. The beautiful Naini Lake makes the place more charming. Nainital is a perfect getaway from Delhi and also perfect for families and honeymooners. Raj Bhavan, Naini Lake, Bhimtal, Tiffin Top, Nainital Zoo, and Naina Devi Temple are some of the famous places to visit in Nainital. Boating in Naini lake, nature walk, cable car ride, horse riding, trekking, and wildlife sightseeing are the adventure activities to do in India.
5) Dharamshala:
Known as the popular honeymoon destination, Dharamshala is one of the best summer holiday destinations in India. Set amidst the picturesque hills, the place is known for being the home of the Dalai Lama of Tibet. Kangra Fort, Bhagsunath Temple, Bhagsu Falls, Namgyal Monastery, Dalai Lama Temple complex, and tea garden are the best places to visit in Dharamshala.
Another treat of visiting summer in Dharamshala is the nearby hill station- Mcleodganj. Mcleodganj offers a blended culture of Tibetan with some British influence. The majestic and lush greeny hills make it one of the best places to visit in summer in India for couples.
6) Pahalgam:
Ranks on the top of the list of cold places to visit in summer in India- Jammu & Kashmir is home to the hidden treasure. Pahalgam is one the best places in Jammu-Kashmir. The untouched and gorgeous natural beauty of this popular hill station makes it one of the best places to visit in summer in India for couples. The views of alluring Himalayan ranges, tiny houses, vast green fields, and the valleys of Pahalgam are a feast to the eyes. Explore the flower-filled pastures, lush greenery, snow-capped mountains, and lakes. Aru Valley, Betaab Valley, Lidder River, Kolahoi Glacier, Mamaleshwara Temple, and Chandanwari are the popular places in Pahalgam to visit. Trekking and camping are the must-do adventure activities in Pahalgam.
7) Gulmarg:
Another gem of Kashmir, Gulmarg is one of the best places to visit in summer in India for couples. A popular skiing destination for adventure lovers and the snow-covered Himalayas for nature lovers- Gulmarg is the most stunning summer vacation in India.
The deep meadows of flowers, evergreen forests, snow-capped mountains, and Alpather lake make it popular among honeymoon couples. Alpather Lake, Ningle Nallah, Shiva Temple, Baba Reshi Shrine, and St Mary’s Church are the best places to visit in Gulmarg. Do not forget to try the Gondola Ride, which is the second-highest Gondola Ride in the world. A truly magical destination in India, Gulmarg is a destination that appeals to every kind of traveler.
8) Rishikesh:
Located in the foothills of the Himalayas, Rishikesh is one of the best adventure places in India in summer. Famous as the “Yoga Capital of the World”, Rishikesh is known for its adventure activities, ancient temples, and popular cafes.
One of the famous cheap summer destinations in India, the banks of River Ganga at the foothills of the Himalayas is best to try bungee jumping and white river rafting. Rishikesh is one of the best places to visit in the summer in India with friends. Lakshman Jhula, Ram Jhula, Triveni Ghat, Parmarth Niketan Ashram, and Beatles Ashram are the best places to visit in Rishikesh.
9) Spiti:
A popular gem of Himachal Pradesh, Spiti is perhaps emerging as one of the cold places to visit in summer in India. Popular as ‘Little Tibet’ and also, the ‘cold desert mountain valley’, Spiti is the most famous among nature lovers.
The long winding roads and valleys are perfect to try a road trip to Spiti. The cold deserts of Spiti and adventure activities make it one of the best adventure places in India in summer. Also, River rafting, camping, trekking, and stargazing are the activities one can try. Kaza, Tabo, Pin Valley National Park, Kibber, and Chandra Taal are the best places to visit in Spiti.
10) Almora:
The cozy and historical town set in the heart of the Himalayan ranges, Almora is one of the best places to visit in summer in India with friends. The rich cultural heritage, unique handicrafts, sumptuous cuisine, and magnificent wildlife are the perks of this beautiful place. The enchanting beauties of the Himalayas, soothing green hills, and the mystical wildlife will be a feast to your eyes. Kasar Devi Temple, Zero Point, Katarmal Sun Temple, Simtola, and Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum are the best places to visit in Almora. Trekking, caving, and shopping at Thana bazaar are some activities one can try.
11) Kodaikanal:
Set in Tamil Nadu state, the Kodaikanal is one of the best cheap summer destinations in India. Blessed with the Meadows, grasslands, waterfalls, valleys, forests, and lakes the place is the most popular summer holiday destination in India. Set at an altitude of 7200 feet above sea level, Kodaikanal is the famous hill station in Tamil Nadu state.
Kodaikanal Lake, Bryant Park, Coaker’s Walk, Pillar Rocks, Shembaganur Museum, and Bear Shola Falls are the best places to visit in Kodaikanal. One can also enjoy cycling tours and yoga at this beautiful place. Take a break from the busy life and visit Kodaikanal with your family for an amazing summer vacation in India.
12) Andaman and Nicobar:
Blessed with white beaches, Andaman and Nicobar island are some of the best places to visit in summer in India for couples. The untouched beauty of this place makes it an ideal vacation destination in India.
Cellular Jail National Memorial, Radhanagar Beach, Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex in Port Blair, Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, and Chidiya Tapu are some places to visit in Andaman and Nicobar island.
Being home to the many beaches the place is perfect to do water sports. The adventure water activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, parasailing, undersea walking, and glass-bottom boating make it one of the best places to visit in summer in India with friends.
13) Darjeeling:
A paradise in West Bengal, Darjeeling is famous among the cheap summer destinations in India. Surrounded by the emerald-green tea plantations and majestic hills, Darjeeling is 8,586 meters above sea level. The cool climes all year round, lush green mountain ranges make the place the best destination to spend summer with family.
Tea Gardens of Dooars, Tiger Hill, Peace Pagoda at Charlemont Hill, and Gorkha War Memorial are the best places to visit in Darjeeling. The third highest peak in the world, the Kanchenjunga peak is visible from Darjeeling. The toy train is a delight for all kinds of tourists in Darjeeling.
14) Lakshadweep Islands:
Blessed with the beaches, and pleasant climate all year make the Lakshadweep Islands favorite of all kinds of travelers. Nature, beaches, blue waters, and 36 islands make Lakshadweep Island just like a dream. Lakshadweep Island is perfect for nature lovers and peace seekers.
Fishing, scuba diving, sailing, snorkeling, and other fun-filled water activities make it one of the best adventure places in India in summer. To spend the lazy time in summer, Lakshadweep Islands are no one should miss. Minicoy Island, Kadmat Island, Kavaratti Island, Pitti Bird Sanctuary, Marine Museum, Kalpeni Island, Bangaram Atoll, Agatti Island, Kiltan Island, Amini Beach, and Andrott Island are the best places to explore at Lakshadweep Islands.
15) Kasol:
If you are looking for a quite greeny ambiance, then choose Kasol. A little village in Himachal Pradesh, situated along the banks of the river Parvati, Kasol is known as the Amsterdam of India.
One of the best cheap summer destinations in India, Kasol is a famous trek in India. Kheerganga, Yanker Pass, Sar Pass, and Pin Parvati Pass trek are not to miss when in Kasol. Gurudwara Shri Manikaran Sahib, Chalal, and German Bakery are the places to visit in Kasol. Riverside camping and Chalal trek are the best things to do in Kasol. Sit back and chill amidst the snow-clad mountains, pine trees, and gurgling river.
16) Shillong:
Known as the Scotland of the East, this beautiful city is encircled by pine trees and scenic beauty. The pleasing weather, lush hills, shimmering lakes, majestic waterfalls, and adventure activities make Shillong perfect to visit in summer in India. The natural beauty and serenity of this place are truly unmatched and incapable. One can enjoy boating and water scooter riding on Umiam Lake, visit Elephant Falls and Nohkalikai Falls, and Living Root Bridges. Also, one must visit Mawlynnong Village, the cleanest place in the world.
17) Gangtok:
Undoubtedly, one of the best old places to visit in summer in India, Gangtok is located in Sikkim. The monasteries, scenic views, waterfalls, leisure activities, and adventure activities make Gangtok the best places to visit in summer in India with friends. The lush greenery and stunning scenic backdrop of valleys and hills make it a perfect summer destination in India.
The Tsomgo Lake, Ban Jhakri falls, Tashi viewpoint, Enchey Monastery, Ganesh Tok, and Do Drul Chorten Rumtek Monastery are some of the best places to explore in Gangtok. One can visit wildlife and national parks in Sikkim to enjoy the flora-fauna.
18) Mahabaleshwar:
One of the most delighted hill stations in Maharashtra, Mahabaleshwar is one of the best places to visit in summer in Maharashtra. Mahabaleshwar is blessed with ghats, greeny mountains, valleys, strawberry gardens, waterfalls, and lakes. For a perfect scenic long weekend, choose Mahabaleshwar to drive up into the Sahyadri Mountains. Going trekking, sightseeing, exploring forts, and roaming around in the local markets are the best things to do in Mahabaleshwar. The Venna Lake, Pratapgarh Fort, Parsi Point, Lingmala Falls, and Lord Mahabaleshwar Temple are the best places to visit in Mahabaleshwar. Also, don’t forget to visit the magnificent Pratapgad Fort, located just an hour away.
19) Lonavala:
A perfect getaway from Mumbai, Lonavala is one of the best places to visit in the summer in Maharashtra. Lonavala ranks on the top places to visit in summer in India with friends. Blessed with the lush green hills cuddled in the Western Ghats, Lonavala is the perfect hill station in Maharashtra. Trekking is a must-do adventure activity in Lonavala. You can choose to relax in the lovely resorts, explore caves and forts or go trekking- Lonavala is just perfect. The Korigad Fort, Lohagarh Fort, Karla Caves, and Bhaja Caves are no one should miss in Lonavala.
20) Pondicherry:
One of the best cheap summer destinations in India, Pondicherry is known as the French capital of India. Famous for the white sandy beaches and little cafes, the place is one of the best summer holiday destinations in India. The Rock beach and Pondicherry beach are the famous beaches in Pondicherry to visit. The beaches of Pondicherry and scenic views of the sunrise and sunset make the beaches perfect to do yoga and meditation. Scuba dive, Surfing, Kayaking, Boating, Paragliding, Paddle Boarding, Kitesurfing are some best adventure activities to try in Pondicherry.
