Top Places to Visit in Summer Across India: Escape the Heat With These Cool Getaways
Pune, 28th May 2025: As the Indian summer turns up the heat, travellers across the country start searching for the perfect escape—places where the air is crisp, the views are serene, and the vibe is all about unwinding. From the snow-kissed Himalayas to breezy coastal retreats, India offers a variety of destinations that are tailor-made for summer vacations.
Whether you’re looking to trek through pine forests, sip chai with a mountain view, or simply lounge by the beach, here’s a list of the top places to visit in summer across India.
1. Shimla & Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Best for: Families, couples, and road trips
Why go: With pleasant weather, colonial architecture, and adventure options like paragliding and rafting, Shimla and Manali are perennial summer favourites.
Don’t miss: Rohtang Pass, Mall Road in Shimla, and hot springs in Vashisht village near Manali.
2. Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir
Best for: Bikers, adventure seekers, and solo travellers
Why go: The high-altitude desert of Ladakh comes alive in summer. With its dramatic landscapes, Buddhist monasteries, and star-studded skies, it’s a dream destination.
Don’t miss: Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, and Magnetic Hill.
3. Darjeeling, West Bengal
Best for: Tea lovers and heritage enthusiasts
Why go: Known as the “Queen of the Hills,” Darjeeling offers misty mornings, sprawling tea estates, and a chance to ride the famous Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.
Don’t miss: Tiger Hill sunrise, Batasia Loop, and a tea tasting tour.
4. Munnar, Kerala
Best for: Honeymooners and nature lovers
Why go: Lush green hills, cool breezes, and spice-scented air make Munnar a perfect antidote to the summer heat.
Don’t miss: Eravikulam National Park, tea museum, and the scenic drive to Top Station.
5. Coorg (Kodagu), Karnataka
Best for: Coffee fans and trekking enthusiasts
Why go: Often called the “Scotland of India,” Coorg is famed for its cool climate, coffee plantations, and waterfalls.
Don’t miss: Abbey Falls, Namdroling Monastery, and Raja’s Seat.
6. Mount Abu, Rajasthan
Best for: Couples and short breaks
Why go: The only hill station in Rajasthan, Mount Abu is a welcome oasis with lakes, temples, and pleasant evenings.
Don’t miss: Dilwara Temples, Nakki Lake, and Guru Shikhar.
7. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Best for: Offbeat travellers and spiritual seekers
Why go: Located at over 10,000 feet, Tawang offers snow-capped mountains, a rich Tibetan cultural influence, and one of the largest monasteries in India.
Don’t miss: Tawang Monastery, Sela Pass, and Nuranang Falls.
8. Gangtok & North Sikkim
Best for: Nature photographers and backpackers
Why go: Gangtok’s modern charm blends well with the raw natural beauty of North Sikkim—where every turn offers a postcard-perfect view.
Don’t miss: Tsomgo Lake, Gurudongmar Lake, and Yumthang Valley.
9. Ooty & Coonoor, Tamil Nadu
Best for: Couples and vintage train lovers
Why go: Located in the Nilgiri Hills, these towns offer a mix of colonial charm and botanical beauty.
Don’t miss: Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Ooty Lake, and Sim’s Park in Coonoor.
10. Mahabaleshwar & Panchgani, Maharashtra
Best for: Quick weekend getaways
Why go: Just a few hours from Pune and Mumbai, these twin hill stations offer strawberry farms, misty viewpoints, and boating.
Don’t miss: Arthur’s Seat, Mapro Garden, and Table Land.
Travel Tips for Summer Vacations in India:
- Book your accommodations in advance—summer is peak tourist season.
- Stay hydrated and wear light cotton clothes.
- Check weather and road conditions, especially for mountain regions.
Final Word
Summer in India can be intense, but it’s also the best time to explore the country’s cooler corners. Whether you’re planning a long retreat or a quick escape, these destinations offer the perfect mix of relief and adventure. So pack your bags, plan your route, and let the hills—or beaches—do the rest.
