Summers are the most ideal time to take a break, especially if you’re looking to get away to a cool place nestled in the hills or want to laze around by the beach. And, there’s so much to do within India and tons of cool places that you can visit with your family/friends/co-workers/ or by yourself. Here’s a list of 70 such mind-blowing destinations in India for a summer vacation.
1. Ladakh
Ladakh is breathtaking but punishingly cold in winters. So, the best time to soak in its majesticity is summer. Ladakh is known for its unique terrain, stupas and monasteries, and stunning lakes and is a hub for adventure enthusiasts looking to trek and river-raft.
Distance-
Distance between Delhi to Ladakh by Road is 1023km
Distance between Delhi to Ladakh by Flight is 617km
Travel Time from Delhi to Ladakh by Road is 21:18 hrs
Cities in Ladakh-
Leh
Kargil
Hanle
Hemis
Hunder
Places to go in Ladakh-
Pangong TSO
Khardung La
Changla Pass
Thiksey Monastery
Dras War
Tso Moriri
Hall of Fame
Zanskar Valley
Nubra Valley
Gurdwara Pathar Sahib
Suru Valley
How much does Ladakh trip cost?
Ladakh with Nubra & Pangong – Group Tour (Standard) Package 7 Days/6 Nights ₹27,676
Ladakh – Group Tour (Standard) Package 6 Days/5 Nights ₹26,279
Ladakh with Nubra & Pangong – Group Tour (Deluxe) Package 7 Days/6 Nights ₹32,762
2. Manali
With its mighty peaks and the glittering Beas, Manali has something for everyone. Whether you want to enjoy a tranquil time in the midst of nature or want to scale a few peaks in the lofty Himalayas- Manali is a great choice.
Places to Visit in Manali-
1. Hadimba Temple, Manali
Location: Old Manali
Timings: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm; every day
2.Solang Valley, Manali
Location: Burwa, Manali
Distance from Manali: 14 km (approx.)
3. Jogini Waterfalls, Manali
Location: Vashisht Village, Manali
Timings: 24×7
4. Manu Temple, Manali
Location: Old Manali
Timings: 6:00 am to 5:00 pm; every day
5. The Manali Gompa, Manali
Location: Old Manali Road, Manali
Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm; closed on Sundays
6. Bhrigu Lake, Manali
Location: Kullu District, Manali
Distance from Manali: 19 km (approx.)
7. Hampta Pass, Manali
Distance from Manali: 15 km (approx.)
8. Nehru Kund, Manali
Location: Vashisht, Manali
Timings: 7:00 am to 7:00 pm; every day
9. Arjun Gufa (Arjun Cave), Manali
Location: Near Prini Village, Manali
Distance from Manali: 21 km (approx.)
10. Van Vihar, Manali
Location: Dhungri Village, Manali
Timings: 8:00 am to 7:00 pm (summer); 8:00 am to 5:00 pm (winter)
Entry Fee: ₹ 5 per person; ₹ 30 for 15 minutes of boating
11. Himalayan Nyingmapa Buddhist Temple, Manali
Location: Near Manali Mall Road, Manali
Timings: 6:00 am to 7:00 pm; every day
Entry Fee: No entry fee; photography is charged at ₹ 20
12. Vashisht Hot Water Springs and Temple, Manali
Location: Vashisht Village, Manali
Timings (Temple): 7:00 am to 9:00 pm; every day
13. Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk Art, Manali
Location: Utopia Complex, Hadimba Temple Road, Manali
Timings: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm (April to November); 10:00 am to 6:00 pm (December to March)
Entry Fee: ₹ 10 per person
14. Kothi, Manali
Distance from Manali: 14 km (approx.)
15. Gulaba, Manali
Distance from Manali: 20 km (approx.)
16. Old Manali, Manali
17. Naggar Castle, Manali
Location: Naggar Town, Manali
Timings: 7:00 am to 10:00 pm (winter timings may differ)
Entry Fee: ₹ 15 per person
Distance from Manali: 21 km (approx.)
3. Mussoorie
The Queen of Hills, Mussoorie enjoys a pleasant climate throughout the year. It is right at the foothills of the Himalayas and is the perfect summer destination thanks to its mysterious mountains, bustling shopping centre, Ruskin Bond, and breathtaking views.
Places to Visit in Mussoorie-
1. Lal Tibba
2. camel’s Back Road
3.Kempty Falls
4. George Everest’s House
5. Company Garden
6. Cloud’s End
7. Soham Himalayan Center
8.The Mall
9.Jabarkhet Wildlife Reserve
10.Gun Hill
11.Happy Villey
12.Shedup Choepelling temple
4. Shimla
Shima is probably the most popular tourist destination in north India and it is the capital city of the mountain-state of Himachal Pradesh. It is well-known for its mall road, its colonial architecture, and breathtaking views making it the perfect mix of the modern and the ancient.
5. Rishikesh
Located at the foothills of the Himalayas, Rishikesh is the perfect blend of spirituality and adventure. It is home to several yoga ashrams and resorts while maintaining the promise of some adrenaline-packed whitewater rafting. It is also well-known for its cafes that cater to varying taste buds.
6. Nainital
Nainital gets its name from Naini Lake, around which the hill station is built. So, it also goes by the name of ‘City of Lakes.’ With snow-capped peaks and lovely lakes for company, Nainital is truly a great summer destination.
7. Kinnaur
Situated almost 250 kms away from Shimla, Kinnaur is a popular camping destination for many travellers. The Satluj, Baspa, and Spiti rivers flow through the lush green landscape of this quaint town, which is also called ‘The Land Of God’.
8. Dalhousie
What strikes you about Dalhousie is its old-world charm that reminds you of the good ol’ colonial times. If that isn’t enough, the valleys, the flowers, the meadows, rivers, and the spectacular views will certainly take your breath away.
9. Pahalgam
The valleys of Kashmir can mesmerize anyone, and Pahalgam is no exception. Pahalgam is the perfect place to feed your senses with its pristine beauty that is still untouched. The greenery in summers coupled with the cool breeze in the valley is a bonus!
10. Andaman
Andaman is the perfect destination for some Vitamin Sea. Port Blair, the capital, is well-connected by air and sea, and Havelock and Neil Islands are popular for diving. Romantic, wild, and historic- Andaman is all you want it to be!
11. Wayanad
Situated in God’s own country, Wayanad is replete with beautiful waterfalls, tea, and spice plantations. It is also home to some of the finest resorts in the country and very comfortable and cosy homestays. Stay at one of them and explore the plantations and wildlife!
12.North Sikkim
It is one of those regions in India that is still untouched by mainstream tourism. So, rest assured you can have the time of your life. North Sikkim shares its border with China and Tibet and has much to offer all throughout the year.
13. Munnar
Munnar is one of the most idyllic destinations in the Western Ghats. Visit it for its beautiful tea estates (home to some of the largest in the world), the misty valleys, rolling hills, and to catch a glimpse of endangered species like the Nilgiri Tahr.
14. Pachmarhi
Did you know that there was a hill station even in Madhya Pradesh? Pachmarhi is the only such place in MP and for that it is also known as the Queen of the Satpura ranges. You can visit this beautiful town all through the year.
15. Ooty
Ooty or Udhagamandalam or the Queen of the Hills once used to be the summer headquarters of the East India Company. Situated in the Nilgiris and abounding in misty paths, tall trees, gorgeous lakes and lush green surroundings, Ooty is a must-visit.
16. Vaishno Devi
No pilgrimage is complete without a visit to the beautiful temple town of Vaishno Devi. It is situated in Trikuta hills at the height of 1600 metres above sea level. Every year many pilgrims visit this town to seek the blessings of the Hindu goddess, Durga.
17. Srinagar
Srinagar is famously referred to as ‘Heaven on Earth’. And one must visit this stunning town to understand that it is completely worthy of its sobriquet. Located on the banks of the Jhelum, Srinagar is a hot-spot for tourists all year round.
18. Gulmarg
Perched at nearly 2800 metres above sea level, Gulmarg is a tourist magnet. Visit in summer for its spectacular meadows, ravines, and snow-capped peaks. Make a trip in winter to experience snowfall and try your hand at skiing and other winter sports.
19. Shillong
Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, derives its name from Lei Shyllong, a holy idol at the Shillong Peak. If you’re looking for some respite from the heat, then Shillong, with its beautiful pine trees, is perfect. In fact, it enjoys great weather all year round.
20.Darjeeling
If you’re looking for a summer honeymoon destination, then Darjeeling might just be it. The cool climate, the stunning locale, and unforgettable sunrises make for a romantic destination. It is at a height of 2050 metres and is 700 kms away from Kolkata.
21. Ranikhet
Ranikhet or the Queen’s farm, was developed by the British and abounds in ancient temples and the majestic Himalayas. It also provides a view of the lofty Nanda Devi peak and is famous for orchards, trekking ranges, and golf courses.
22. Patnitop
Located in the Udhampur district of Jammu and Kashmir, Patnitop is the best place to be if you want to enjoy summer meadows and snow-capped mountains. If you’re an adventure enthusiast, you can also partake in some trekking, paragliding, and skiing in winters.
23. Mcleodganj
Mcleodganj is located very close to Dharamshala and is the perfect confluence of a strong Tibetan culture and British colonialism. It is home to many Tibetans and the spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama. Visit Mcleodganj for its monasteries and stunning landscape.
24. Corbett National Park
Part of the Corbett Tiger Reserve, Corbett National park is one of the oldest national parks in the country and is located in the foothills of the Himalayas. It is known for protecting the endangered Bengal tiger, its wildlife safaris and resorts.
25. Tawang
The birthplace of the sixth Dalai Lama, Tawang is famous for its monasteries and Buddhist influence. It is situated at a height of 3050 metres and is famous for its orchids and very unique cuisine that is local to the area.
26.Kaziranga National Park
Kaziranga National Park is famous for its unique flora and fauna, some of which are highly endangered too. It is the home of the one-horned rhinoceros. It is the result of the effort of the forest department and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
27. Kohima
Kohima is the capital of Nagaland. Its original name is ‘Kewhira’ from the Kewhi flower, which is found here. It is located 1500 metres above sea level and provides stunning views, beautiful sceneries, and lots of activities for adventure-seekers.
28. Cherrapunjee
Known to be the wettest place on earth at one point, Cherrapunji is located in the state of Meghalaya. It is famous for its double-decker living root bridge, cave formations such as Mawsmai Caves and Krem Phyllut, and Asia’s cleanest village Mawylyngnong.
29. Ziro
An unassuming little town in Arunachal Pradesh, Ziro is home to the Apa Tani tribe. It is also well-known for its rice fields and pine hills. It is also the ideal place to visit in summer because it enjoys a very temperate climate.
30. Majuli
Situated on the Brahmaputra, Majuli is the world’s largest river island that is also environmentally friendly and pollution-free. It is about 350 kms from Guwahati and is inhabited largely by tribal groups. It is also well-known for its various festivals, the most famous one being, Raas.
31. Puri
Puri is a part of the Char Dham pilgrimage for Hindus. The beach town in Orissa is famous worldwide for the Jagannath temple.
32. West Sikkim
West Sikkim, with its monasteries and valleys, is at the foothills of the daunting Mt. Kanchenjunga, and has spectacular views of the towering peak.
33. Gangtok
Gangtok is the capital of Sikkim and has breathtaking views of Mt. Kanchenjunga too. It is also a well-known base for many Himalayan trekkers.
34. Kalimpong
An untouched hill station, Kalimpong is situated in West Bengal. With its Buddhist influence, Kalimpong is pristine, beautiful and famous for monasteries, Tibetan handicrafts, and churches too!
35. Dooars
Dooars refers to the region in North-East India that is close to Bhutan. It comprises several towns, including Siliguri, Jalpaiguri, Darjeeling, etc. It’s also called ‘India’s Gateway to Bhutan.’
36. Coorg
Situated in the Western Ghats, Coorg, the land of the Kodavas, is renowned for its coffee plantations, imposing hills, gushing streams and its unique culture.
37. Yercaud
Tucked away in the Eastern Ghats, Yercaud is also called the poor man’s Ooty. Abounding in forests and coffee plantations, it provides some mesmerizing views.
38. Coonoor
A serene place to spend your summer vacation, Coonoor is just 19 kms away from Ooty and is the second-largest hill station in the Nilgiris.
39. Nagarhole
Situated close to the Bandipur national park, Nagarhole is abounding in rich, unique flora and fauna. Visit for the wildlife and the solitude in nature.
40. Kabini
Wildlife is what most would associate Kabini with. Dense forests, a variety of animals and birds, and very restful resorts are how one can sum up Kabini.
41. Panchgani
Panchgani gets its name from the five different hills that surround it. Together, these hill ranges offer stunning views of the sunset and the valley.
42. Mahabaleshwar
Think Mahabaleshwar; think strawberries! But this gorgeous town in the Western Ghats is also known for its rivers, peaks, views, and waterfalls.
43. Raigad
Situated at nearly 3,000 metres, Raigad is known for its history, especially the Raigad Fort. It is also the place where the samadhi of Maratha kingpin Chatrapati Shivaji exists.
44. Harihareshwar
The perfect weekend getaway from Mumbai and Pune, this beach town has a lot to offer such as the Harihareshwar temple, beautiful hills, and the river Savitri.
45. Mount Abu
While it offers beautiful valley views and lush green sceneries, Mount Abu is renowned for Dilwara temples, the architecture of which are world-famous.
46. Thekkady
If you’re up for a jungle vacation, then Thekkady, home to Periyar, the largest tiger reserve in the country, is the right choice.
47. Kodaikanal
The beauty of this hill station in the Palani hills is simply breathtaking. Resting at 7200 feet, Kodaikanal is a must-visit for the summer heat!
48. Mukteshwar
Not only does it offer you brilliant views of the majestic Himalayan range, Mukteshwar also is a hot-spot for adventure activities like rock climbing and rappelling.
49. Auli
Apple orchards, pine and oak trees- these are what best describe the gorgeous town of Auli. It has been a famous tourist destination since time immemorial.
50. Malshej Ghat
It is the perfect destination if you’re on the lookout for an offbeat spot with beautiful valleys, waterfalls, and rivers. Plus, you can trek!
51. Matheran
It is the perfect weekend getaway from Mumbai and is the smallest hill station in India. But, it is stunning, serene and immensely popular.
52. Devikulam
Another beautiful hill station in Kerala, Devikulam is home to tea plantations, legendary lakes, and waterfalls. Visit for mist-covered mountains and greenery!
53. Pithoragarh
Also referred to as Little Kashmir, this little town in the Soar valley, is a favorite pit stop among pilgrims making their way to Kailash Mansarover.
54. Almora
With the snow-capped Greater Himalayas in the background and beautiful valleys everywhere, Almora is shaped like a horse-shoe and is pristine.
55. Spiti
Spiti is unlike any other place in Himachal and is surrounded by the mighty Himalayas. It is situated at 12500 feet and makes for a stunning bike vacation.
56. Kasol
The Amsterdam of India, Kasol is a small town by the river Parvati. It is fast emerging as a tourist hub, especially for trekkers, backpackers, and nature enthusiasts.
57. Kashmir
The holy trinity of summer vacations- Gulmarg, Srinagar, and Pahalgam make for an exciting trip. Shikhara rides and stunning valleys- that’s Kashmir in a nutshell.
58. Mysore
A summer vacation with a lesson or two on history and culture is what you can expect from a visit to the Mysore Palace, Brindavan Gardens and more in Mysore.
59. Dharamshala
Dharamshala is beautiful, no doubt. But, it is also where the Dalai Lama resides. So, it comes with a heavy Tibetan influence which can be seen in the lovely architecture and culture.
60. Pondicherry
The French Capital of India, Pondicherry, is the perfect weekend getaway from Chennai. French cuisine, the immersive Auroville, or the beaches- the choice is yours.
61. Pelling
The gorgeous and quaint town of Pelling is situated just 135 kms from Gangtok and is known for its beautiful vegetation and views of the snow-capped Kanchenjunga range.
62. Lachen
An offbeat tourist spot in Sikkim, Lachen is at 8500 feet and has pine-clad hills and snow-capped peaks throughout most of the year. Don’t miss the Gurudongmar Lake there.
63. Lonavala
Situated very close to Mumbai, Lonavala has the most serene woods, waterfalls, and valleys. For this, it is also called the ‘Jewel of the Sahyadri Mountains.
64. Khandala
If you need a quick family summer getaway, then it can’t get better than Khandala. Abundant in nature while also offering great food and culture, Khandala has something for everyone.
65. Saputara
Saputara is the only hill station in Gujarat and offers plenty of breathtaking views while providing interesting tourist attractions like boat rides, gardens, nurseries, forts, and more.
66. Goa
With the sun, sand, beaches, the Western Ghats, and the buzz of tourists- Goa is the go-to vacation destination for people of all ages.
67. Periyar
Periyar has the largest tiger reserve in the country, and it is a paradise for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. Your trip to Kerala is incomplete without a visit to Periyar.
Read Also- Best Tourist Places to Visit in India
