Come summers and everyone will be looking for a long getaway, away from the scorching high temperatures and hustle-bustle of the inland-city life. With the mercury rising to unprecedented heights in India, everyone will be looking for places to visit in summer in India. From the lofty peaks in the Himalayas to the Blue Mountains and the Andaman Islands in the south, and from the Western Ghats to the eastern extents of the Himalayas in the northeastern states, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to deciding where to go for summer holidays in India. Here is a list of all the places that are surely worth a visit. Do not forget to note down your favorites among these!
1. Kinnaur – Solo Backpacking
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Kinnaur is a wonderful destination that is famed for serenity and alluring beauty. The lush green forests, rugged mountains, and the flowing rivers of Satluj and Spiti makes this destination seem directly out of a storybook. Kinnaur gives travelers a chance to witness the finest amalgamation of cultures in this region. The locals here have adapted both Hinduism and Buddhism, making it one of the most religiously harmonious destinations. From temples dedicated to the Hindu Lord Shiva to the monasteries following Buddhism, one can witness numerous attractions sitting in the calm environment.
Places to visit: Reckong Peo, Kalpa, Sarahan, Nako, Ribba
Things to do: Visit the Bhimakali temple, explore the Kamru fort, indulge in local cuisine, stroll around the lake
Places to eat: Little Chef, Hotel Apple Pie, Sangla Cafe, Cafe 42
How to reach:
- By Air: Jubbarhatti Airport, Shimla
- By Rail: Kalka Railway Station
2. Pahalgam – Honeymoon Travels
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Tucked away in the mountains of Jammu and Kashmir is this untouched beauty named Pahalgam. It is among the best summer holiday destinations in India. A treat for the minds, eyes, and souls of a traveler, Pahalgam is among the places to visit in summer vacation. It is bound to leave one in awe of the majestic landscapes formed by the natural marvels here. Famed for its numerous farms of saffron, Pahalgam is a destination that covers tiny houses, vast green fields, and the valleys, and whatnot. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains in all four corners, this mountain village is totally worth a visit. So, on your next trip to India, visit the splendid Pahalgam. It remains one of the top summer vacation places in India with family or friends.
Places to visit: Aru Valley, Betaab Valley, Lidder River, Kolahoi Glacier, Mamaleshwara Temple, Chandanwari
Things to do: Trekking, fishing, golfing at Pahalgam Golf Course, camping at Aru Valley, rafting, and sledding in Chandanwari
Places to eat: Dana Pani, Hotel Paradise And Restaurant, Cafe Log Inn, Sagar Ratna
How to reach:
- By Air: Srinagar Airport (95 km from Pahalgam)
- By Rail: N/A
3. Gulmarg – Thrilling Escape
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Are your looking for the perfect destination to enjoy your summer holidays in India? One of the most stunning places to visit for summer vacation in India, Gulmarg is one jewel of a destination residing in Jammu and Kashmir. Gulmarg is an impeccable and a popular skiing destination that has plenty to offer. From snow-covered Himalayas and deep meadows of flowers to evergreen forests and the second-highest Gondola Ride of the world, this destination is truly magical. Boasting about being the most beautiful town in the country, Gulmarg is a destination that appeals to each and every kind of traveler. It is also one of the best summer vacation places in India with family.
Places to visit: Alpather Lake, Ningle Nallah, Shiva Temple, Baba Reshi Shrine, St Mary’s Church
Things to do: Skiing and snowboarding on the Highland Park Slope, take a Gondola Ride, stroll around the outer circle, trekking, ice skating
Places to eat: Bakshi Restaurant, Highlands Park, Yemberzal Hotel & Restaurant, Fluoreschence Hotel & Restaurant
How to reach:
- By Air: Srinagar Airport (85 km from Gulmarg)
- By Rail:Jammu Railway Station (290 km from Gulmarg)
4. Rishikesh – Friend’s Getaway
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Famed for being the top destination for rafting and other water sports, Rishikesh is that town that pops in the head when one is seeking an essence of spirituality. This destination earned its recognition by being the ‘Yoga Capital of the World’. The extensive number of ancient temples, cafes, yoga centers, and adventure activities makes Rishikesh truly a marvelous vacation spot. This destination has quickly emerged as one of the top destinations to pay a visit to in recent times. It is one of the best places to visit in summer in India.
Places to visit: Lakshman Jhula, Ram Jhula, Triveni Ghat, Parmarth Niketan Ashram, Beatles Ashram
Things to do in Rishikesh: White water rafting, witness the Ganga aarti, beach volleyball, try waterfall trekking, get Ayurvedic massages
Places to eat: A Tavola Con Te, Zorba Organic Restaurant & Cafe, Bistro Nirvana, Little Buddha Cafe
How to reach:
- By Air: Jolly Grant Airport (35 km from Rishikesh)
- By Rail: Haridwar Railway Station (25 km from Rishikesh)
5. Spiti – A Solo Bike Ride
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Spiti is perhaps emerging as one of the popular destinations for summer vacation in India for many. This destination is as paradisiacal as it can get. The long stretches of winding roads and the deep valleys covered in lush green vegetation certainly offers a great excuse for one to get their bikes out and just escape to the cold deserts of Spiti. This is the town or valley that actually separates Tibet from India. From monasteries to landscapes, there is plenty to see here! Hence, while planning your summer holidays in India, do not overlook adding this place to your itinerary.
Places to visit in Spiti: Kaza, Tabo, Pin Valley National Park, Kibber, and Chandra Taal
Things to do: River rafting, camping, trekking, star gazing, fossil hunting, andvisiting Kaza’s main market
Places to eat: The Himalayan Cafe, Taste of Spiti, Spiti Organic Kitchen
How to reach:
- By Air: Kullu airport is the nearest to Spiti
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is in Shimla.
6. Almora – Cozy Little Hamlet
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Almora is a cozy, historical town that is nestled in the heart of the Himalayan ranges. This town is shaped like that of a horse-shoe and exhibits several traces of the pre-British heritage. Almora is famous for several things including but not limited to its rich culture, its delectable cuisine that has dishes made from centuries old recipes, the mystical wildlife, and the brilliant craftsmanship. This town has two major rivers of its own named Koshi and Suyal that just adds to the beauty of landscapes that one can witness in this beautiful town. It is surely amongst the popular places to visit in summer in India.
Places to visit in Almora: Kasar Devi Temple, Zero Point, Katarmal Sun Temple, Simtola, and Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum
Things to do: Trek to the zero point, getting a glimpse of the past at Lakhudiyar cave, shop at Thana bazar
Places to eat: Pizza Wok Cafe, Glory Restaurant, Saraswati Sweets & Restaurant
How to reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is located at Pantnagar.
- By Rail: The nearest railways station is Kathgodam.
7. Mukteshwar – Stash Of Natural Bounty
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This quaint, little town is surely amongst the popular places to visit for a summer vacation in India. Mukteshwar is a town located in the vicinity of Nainital in Uttarakhand. This town offers the perfect blend of natural wonders and adventure sports for one to indulge in. This is home to a 350-year-old temple and is named after it called Mukteshwar Dham. There are several hundred devotees visiting the Shiva temple all year round. The lush greens, beautiful trains, and the narrow lanes for trekking surely makes this an idyllic escape for many visitors. There are also little cottages that add to the charm of this place.
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