Beat the Heat: Discover the Best Places to Visit in India During Summer
As the scorching heat of summer approaches, many of us start dreaming of escaping to cooler destinations. Fortunately, India offers a plethora of breathtaking places to visit during the summer months, each with its unique charm and appeal. Whether you’re seeking serene hill stations, vibrant cultural experiences, or thrilling adventures, India has something for everyone. Here’s a curated list of the best places to visit in April, May, and June for your summer vacation in 2024.
Best Places to Visit in April
Darjeeling, West Bengal
April marks the beginning of summer in most parts of India, making it an ideal time to head to the hills for some respite from the heat. Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, Darjeeling is a charming hill station renowned for its picturesque tea gardens, stunning vistas, and pleasant weather.
Stay Recommendation
Discover Treetops & Tea Trails, a charming villa in Darjeeling established in 1885. Surrounded by bio-organic tea plantations, this hilltop retreat offers bird-watching and tea plantation tours. With modern amenities, organic farm-to-fork meals, and stunning views of Kanchenjunga Mountain, it’s a highly recommended getaway.
Things to Do
Toy Train Ride: Hop aboard the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the Toy Train, for a scenic journey through misty mountains and verdant valleys.
Visit Tea Gardens: Explore the lush tea plantations that surround Darjeeling and learn about the intricate process of tea cultivation and production.
Trekking: Embark on a trek to Tiger Hill or Sandakphu to witness breathtaking sunrise views over the snow-capped peaks of Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world.
Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Known as the “Queen of Hill Stations,” Ooty is a charming destination nestled in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu. April is an ideal time to visit Ooty when the weather is pleasant, and the landscape is adorned with blooming flowers and lush greenery.
Stay Recommendation
Experience luxury and tranquillity at The Pink Palace and Villa Sullivan, two stunning villas in Ooty. The Pink Palace offers rustic grandeur with contemporary features and traditional charm, while Villa Sullivan offers a cosy retreat atop a hill. Both promise an unforgettable getaway.
Things to Do
Botanical Gardens: Explore the meticulously manicured gardens of the Government Botanical Garden, showcasing a diverse collection of exotic plants and flowers.
Ooty Lake: Enjoy a serene boat ride on the tranquil waters of Ooty Lake, surrounded by eucalyptus trees and picturesque hills.
Nilgiri Mountain Railway: Embark on a scenic journey aboard the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering breathtaking views of the Nilgiri Hills and tea plantations.
Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh, is a popular summer holiday destination known for its colonial architecture, scenic beauty, and pleasant weather. April is an excellent time to visit Shimla when the weather is mild, and the hills are alive with vibrant blooms.
Stay Recommendation
Discover two luxurious villas in Shimla. Willowbrook Hill offers contemporary furnishings amidst lush forests and stunning mountain views, while Northwood Cottage transports you back in time with its vintage furnishings and homely ambience.
Things to Do
The Ridge: Take a stroll along the famous Ridge Road, offering panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayas and the iconic Christ Church.
Jakhu Temple: Visit the Jakhu Temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, located atop Jakhu Hill, and enjoy panoramic views of Shimla from the highest point in the city.
Shopping: Explore the bustling markets of Mall Road and Lakkar Bazaar, known for their handicrafts, woollen garments, and local delicacies.
Best Places to Visit in May
Manali, Himachal Pradesh
As the temperatures continue to rise across the country, May is an ideal time to escape to the cool mountain haven of Manali in Himachal Pradesh. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, dense forests, and gushing rivers, Manali offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and adventure.
Stay Recommendation
Discover ultimate luxury and tranquillity with our handpicked selection of villas in Manali. From ChaletShanag, nestled in the picturesque Shanag area, to The Kathguni House amidst apple orchards, indulge in rustic elegance and breathtaking views of snow-drenched landscapes, perfect for a rejuvenating stay in Manali.
Things to Do
Rohtang Pass: Drive to Rohtang Pass and marvel at the breathtaking landscapes of glaciers, snow-capped mountains, and cascading waterfalls.
Adventure Sports: Indulge in a variety of adventure activities such as paragliding, river rafting, ziplining, and trekking in the picturesque surroundings of Solang Valley.
Explore Old Manali: Wander through the narrow lanes of Old Manali, lined with quaint cafes, handicraft shops, and ancient temples, offering a glimpse into the local culture and way of life.
Coorg, Karnataka
Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is a scenic hill station nestled amidst the lush Western Ghats in Karnataka. May is an ideal time to visit Coorg when the weather is pleasant, and the hills are draped in vibrant shades of green.
Stay Recommendation
Escape to two luxurious villas in Coorg for the ultimate relaxation and natural immersion. Tall Silver and The Haven – Grandeur offers private coffee plantations, inviting rooms, and breathtaking views. Whether you seek solitude or adventure, these villas promise an unforgettable stay in the heart of Coorg’s natural beauty.
Things to Do
Coffee Plantations: Explore the verdant coffee plantations that dot the landscape of Coorg and learn about the coffee-making process on a guided tour.
Abbey Falls: Trek through the dense forests to reach Abbey Falls, a picturesque waterfall cascading from a height of 70 feet amidst lush green surroundings.
Trekking: Embark on scenic treks to popular spots like Tadiandamol Peak, the highest peak in Coorg, offering panoramic views of the Western Ghats.
Gangtok, Sikkim
Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim, is a serene hill station nestled in the eastern Himalayas, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and cascading waterfalls. May is an ideal time to visit Gangtok when the weather is pleasant, and the landscape is adorned with blooming rhododendrons and orchids.
Stay Recommendation
Experience the charm of our exquisite villas in Gangtok. La Ipsing Farm offers a serene heritage home surrounded by lush biodiversity, while Himalayan Horizon captivates with its awe-inspiring location and uninterrupted vistas. Guests can indulge in nature walks and games, and relish a delectable array of cuisine at the in-house restaurant. Our villas promise an unforgettable retreat in the heart of Gangtok’s beauty.
Things to Do
Rumtek Monastery: Visit the Rumtek Monastery, one of the largest and most important monasteries in Sikkim, known for its exquisite architecture and vibrant Buddhist art.
Tsomgo Lake: Take a scenic drive to Tsomgo Lake, a glacial lake nestled amidst snow-capped mountains, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Nathula Pass: Embark on a thrilling excursion to Nathula Pass, located on the Indo-China border, and witness stunning views of the Himalayas and the Chumbi Valley.
Best Places to Visit in June
Leh-Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir
As the summer reaches its peak, escape to the surreal landscapes of Leh-Ladakh, nestled in the remote corners of the Indian Himalayas. June marks the beginning of the tourist season in this high-altitude desert region, offering travellers a chance to explore its rugged beauty and unique cultural heritage.
Stay Recommendation
Escape to our luxurious villas in Jammu & Kashmir. Nazm offers lush floral meadows and alpine vistas, while Suroor blends traditional elegance with modern comfort. Both villas near Gulmarg provide breathtaking views. Explore Leh-Ladakh on an 8-9 hour scenic drive from Gulmarg for an adventure-filled excursion.
Things to Do
Monastery Tour: Explore the ancient Buddhist monasteries of Hemis, Thiksey, and Diskit, adorned with colourful prayer flags, intricate murals, and centuries-old artefacts.
Pangong Lake: Take a mesmerizing drive to Pangong Lake, famous for its ever-changing shades of blue and stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains.
Nubra Valley: Embark on a thrilling journey to Nubra Valley via the world’s highest motorable pass, Khardung La, and witness the stark beauty of its dunes, double-humped camels, and ancient monasteries.
Munnar, Kerala
Munnar is a picturesque hill station nestled in the Western Ghats of Kerala, known for its sprawling tea estates, misty valleys, and pristine natural beauty. June is an excellent time to visit Munnar when the weather is cool, and the landscape is adorned with blooming Neelakurinji flowers.
Stay Recommendation
Escape to Paradise Valley and Vale Echoes villas in Munnar for tranquil and luxurious experiences. Alfresco dining and mountain views await at Paradise Valley, while Vale Echoes offers expansive valley vistas and a relaxing environment. Designed for comfort, both villas promise an unforgettable stay.
Things to Do
Tea Plantations: Explore the vast tea estates of Munnar, such as the Tata Tea Museum, and learn about the history and process of tea cultivation in the region.
Eravikulam National Park: Embark on a wildlife safari in Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Mattupetty Dam: Visit Mattupetty Dam and enjoy boating amidst lush greenery, with the backdrop of the mist-covered Western Ghats.
Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Rishikesh, situated on the banks of the Ganges River in the foothills of the Himalayas, is a spiritual and adventure hub known for its yoga and meditation centres, ancient temples, and thrilling outdoor activities. June is an ideal time to visit Rishikesh when the weather is pleasant, and the river rafting season is in full swing.
Stay Recommendation
Experience divine tranquillity at Vista Divine and Mango Trails, two exceptional villas in Rishikesh. Vista Divine offers lush surroundings and stunning Ganges views, with a private lawn and bar. Mango Trails features a mango orchard and Greek-inspired farmhouse, along with Thar off-road experiences. Both offer barbeque, bonfire, and a refreshing pool.
Things to Do
River Rafting: Experience the adrenaline rush of white-water rafting on the Ganges River, with various rapids ranging from mild to challenging levels.
Yoga and Meditation: Attend yoga and meditation sessions at one of the many ashrams and wellness centres in Rishikesh, known for their spiritual ambience and experienced instructors.
Visit Temples: Explore the ancient temples of Rishikesh, such as the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Triveni Ghat, and Bharat Mandir, and soak in the spiritual vibes of the sacred city.
Wrapping Up Your Summer Adventure
Whether you’re seeking tranquillity amidst the hills, adventure in the great outdoors, or cultural immersion in ancient traditions, these destinations offer the perfect escape for your summer vacation in 2024. Pack your bags, embark on a memorable journey, and make the most of India’s enchanting summer destinations. From the misty hill stations of Darjeeling and Manali to the serene backwaters of Kerala and the rugged beauty of Leh-Ladakh, let your summer trip be filled with unforgettable experiences and cherished memories. Plan your itinerary, book your accommodations with StayVista, and get ready for extraordinary and incredible summer getaways in India.
