Summer destinations in India: Summer is all about fun in the sun. The season asks to break with the routine to discover a more positive side of life. In fact, India has a myriad of great places for a short summer vacation. Numerous sites deserve your attention during the summer holidays, from bright and cool evenings at various destinations in the Himalayan range to magnificent sunsets and dusks in the Western and Eastern Ghats.
Sripad Vaidya, Co-founder and COO of Confirmtkt spoke to India.com and shared a list of affordable and easily accessible travel destinations for summer travel. So plan your perfect vacation for each of them to beat the hustle and bustle of summer.
Affordable Summer Destinations in India You Must Visit
Munnar
Munnar is home to high altitude tea plantations, scenic waterfalls, and hiking trails in large numbers. The town in Kerala’s Idukki district was a resort for the British elite. You can uncover exquisite mountain camping tours at Echo Point or spot rare species at nearby national parks and sanctuaries. You can also enjoy various adventures and water sports.
Dharmashala
Dharmashala is the destination of all adventurous things. A glimpse of the sparkling snow-capped Himalayas in the background as you explore temples, monasteries, tea gardens, and waterfalls. You can also hike around Lake Kareri or take a day trip to the Kangra Valley and explore the Kangra Fort. In short, Dharmashala is the place to spend a peaceful summer vacation.
Coonoor
Located in lush Nilgiris, the quiet hill station of Coonoor is a quick escape from busy city life. You can start with a small train ride from Ooty to Coonoor and travel through mysterious rainforests. You can also choose to have a family picnic, take a road trip, or even swim the waterfalls at your leisure in picturesque Coonoor.
Manali
Breathtaking Manali is the destination for those looking to walk or trek up to the snow capped mountains. The beautiful aura of the town, which also offers many opportunities for adventure sports, makes it a great destination for summer travel.
Things to do in Manali – Experience Manali in 10 Minutes
Shillong
Shillong is known for its charming hill stations, waterfalls and charming colonial architecture. Unlock adventure by traveling to natural wonders like the East Khasi Hills and camp under the stars for a night as a break from the variety of mundane working days in Shillong. Known for its nightlife, the beautiful city of Shillong also satisfies the palate of those craving refreshing cocktails and great music.
Araku Valley
Araku, the hill station in the Eastern Ghats, is known for its coffee plantations, waterfalls, and greenery. The valley houses a number of coffee museums for you to take a sip of the authentic coffee of the valley. You can also explore the tribal museum and top it off with a sumptuous local meal in the valley.
Rishikesh
The divine town of Rishikesh is the most picturesque and serene city. Termed the ‘Yoga Capital of the World’, Rishikesh is a place that rejuvenates the mind and the spirit. You can explore the various temples and ashrams near the glistening Ganges and take a yoga class to reconnect to your spirits. If you are looking for some adventure around the corner, Rishikesh also offers an array of adventure sports for you to indulge in, including hot air ballooning, cliff jumping, and kayaking.
Bungee Jumping at Rishikesh – Jumpin Heights Rishikesh Vlog
Darjeeling
Make your way through the lush tea gardens with the mighty Kanchenjunga looking over you in Darjeeling. Being a hotspot for biodiversity, Darjeeling is the destination to consider if you want to be closer to the pristine mother nature.
Pondicherry
Known as the Paris of the East, Pondicherry is the destination to spend a bright summertime. Soak yourself under the sun on the exotic beaches of Pondicherry and follow it up with gorging on French cuisines. You can also click yourself exploring the bright, aesthetic houses in the French colony and immerse in adventure and watersports to complete your desired summer trip in Pondicherry.
Nainital
The Himalayan Resort Town of Nainital allows tourists to engage in scenic boat rides across the Naini Lake, view golden sunrises at the Tiffin top, and experience the divinity of various temples around. You can also shop for local souvenirs at the local market to take home at the end of the trip.
