20 Places In India That Are Perfect For a Summer Holiday

Summer has already arrived and it’s time for you to make some plans for your summer vacation holiday in India. With so many exciting choices for summer vacation with friends and family, India often spoils its visitors. If you are tired of hectic schedules and the hustle & bustle of city life then some of the top and unique summer getaways in India are waiting for you. So, are you looking for the best places for a summer vacation in India? If yes, then you have reached the right place.

Here we come with some beautiful places to visit in summer in India with friends & family, those are the best 20 places you have to explore in summer vacation in India that are perfect for holiday destination

Summer has already arrived and it’s time for you to make some plans for your summer vacation holiday in India. With so many exciting choices for summer vacation with friends and family, India often spoils its visitors. If you are tired of hectic schedules and the hustle & bustle of city life then some of the top and unique summer getaways in India are waiting for you. So, are you looking for the best places for a summer vacation in India? If yes, then you have reached the right place.

Here we come with some beautiful places to visit in summer in India with friends & family, those are the best 20 places you have to explore in summer vacation in India that are perfect for holiday destination

Shimla is one of the ideal and best tourist places in Himachal Pradesh to explore in the summer season. Located in Himachal Pradesh, Shimla is also known as the ‘Queen of Hill Stations. Visit the beautiful Christ church on the ridge near the mall road and don’t forget to do shopping here.

How to Reach?

The Himalayan Toy Train is one of the finest ways to reach the hill town. Regular buses, cabs are available from major cities. The nearest airport is in Chandigarh.

Things To Do in Shimla

• Spring on the Toy Train from Kalka to Shimla.
• White water rafting at Tattapani.
• Linger around the Mall Road to eat, shop, and enjoy.
• See the beautiful Christ Church on the Ridge near the mall.
• Trek to Jakhu Hanuman Temple, perched on top of a hill.
• Explore the British architecture of Viceregal Lodge, Christ Church, etc.
• A visit to Kufri, Chail, and Mashobra, beautiful hill getaways.
• Get a family photo in the traditional attire for a fond memory.

If you are looking for a thrilling holiday destination in India then Ladakh is the ultimate place for you. The might mountain peaks, eye-catchy lakes, mesmerizing views of nature and perfect weather are few things that make your vacation memorable.

How to Reach?

The awesome way to reach Ladakh is by road. Either drive from Manali or Srinagar or take both paths alternatively. You can also fly to the Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, Leh.

Things to do in Ladakh

• Explore Leh city, attractions like Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, and markets.
• Spend days at the Zanskar Valley, Pangong Tso Lake, Tso Moriri, and Hemis National Park
• Visit monasteries of Ladakh including Hemis, Diksit, among so many.
• Photo stop at Khardung-La Pass, Magnetic hill, etc.
• River rafting on the River Indus.
• Watch the Llamas perform multicolor Chhams during monastery festivals.
• Ride a double-humped Bactrian camel in the Nubra Valley.

Manali is the popular summer vacation destination that offers a perfect combination of adventure, weather, scenic beauty, and other things that are required for an unforgettable vacation with friends & family.

How to Reach?

The highway to Manali is a beauty, therefore the best way to get to the hill town is on a bus, cab, or private vehicle. The closest airport is in Bhuntar, 50 km. away. The closest railway station is Chandigarh, 350 km away.

Things to do in Manali

• Sightseeing at Hadimba Temple, Van Vihar Himalayan Nyingmapa Gompa monastery, Club House, etc.
• Indulge in adventure sports at Solang Valley
• See Rohtang Pass for snow.
• Go river rafting in the River Beas.
• Short trips to Kullu, Manikaran Gurudwara, Jogini Falls, Arjuna Gufa, Bhrigu Lake and Vashisht Hot-Water Springs.
• Picnic at the apple orchards.
• Camping and trekking.

Are you looking for a hippie destination to spend your summer vacation with friends? If so, then Kasol should be in the top place. The breathtaking views of the mountains along with a night stay at camps by the river make your stay extraordinary.

How to reach?

Kasol cannot be easily accessed by air. The closest airport is the Kullu Manali Airport, also known as Bhuntar Airport. Bhuntar is around 30kms from Kasol and you can hire a cab or a taxi to take you from Bhuntar to Kasol, from the airport.

Things to do in kasol

• Traverse On The Tricky Trails
• Visit The Traditional Village
• Get blessing from Manikaran Sahib Gurdwara
• Moon Dance Cafe Enjoy Here With Friends
• Parvati Shangri-La Festival Attend & Enjoy To The Fullest
• Visit the Ancient Malana Village
• Go For A Thrilling Trek
• Go For Fishing
• Take A Dip In The Soothing Water

You might not find beaches appealing in the summer season but when it comes to Andaman and Nicobar Islands your thoughts will definitely change. Get ready to enjoy the lip-smacking taste of tropical fruits while relaxing on the sandy shores.

How to Reach?

Flight connections to Port Blair are available from selected airports, so are sea cruises. Kolkata and Chennai are the two cities with connectivity to the island archipelago in the Bay of Bengal.

Things to do in Andaman

• Visit Port Blair, Havelock Island, Neil Island, and Radhanagar Beach among many.
• Experience sports like swimming, scuba diving, snorkeling, sea-walking.
• Bird watching in the tropical rainforests.
• See in passing India’s only active volcano in Barren Island.
• Enjoy picturesque sunrise and sunset.
• Bask in the sun, play in the blue waters, and laze in the languid beach resorts.

Among all the attractive hill stations, Dharmshala is one of the top most places to visit in summer in India. If you have a love for some exciting adventure activities like paragliding and others then do visit this place.

How to Reach?

Gaggal Airport and Pathankot railway station being settled close by, it is easy to travel to Dharamshala.

Things to do in Dharamshala

• Feel the adrenaline rush with paragliding.
• Set new goals with the Triund trek.
• Rest in the lap of nature with camping.
• Day tour to Kangra Valley.
• Get pictures in traditional garments.

How to Reach?

Jolly Grant Airport and Rishikesh railway station serves as the comfortable means to travel to Auli. Cab services are easily available to the destination.

Things to do in Auli

• Enjoy skiing at India’s Ski-Hotspot.
• Marvel at the Auli Artificial Lake.
• Explore the realms of Joshimath.
• Touch the sky with a Ropeway ride.
• Test your limits with the Auli Gorson trek.
• Be near to nature by camping.

When you are looking for unique and beautiful summer tourist places in India then Gangtok is definitely one such destination that you should not miss. The green valleys along with the appealing Kanchenjunga backdrop are sure a perfect treat for your eyes.

How to Reach?

Gangtok is smoothly accessible by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is in Bagdogra and the closest railway station is in Jalpaiguri, West Bengal. Cabs making a 4-5 hours travel to Sikkim’s capital are available from both.

Things to do in Gangtok

• Visit the Nathu La Pass
• River Rafting in Teesta
• Riding a yak at Tsomgo Lake
• Paragliding, and ropeway cable-ride from Deorali
• Visit the Rumtek monastery

Darjeeling is the topmost summer holiday place in India because of its amazing weather and picturesque beauty. The natural prettiness of this hill station is sure to win your heart.

How to Reach?

The hill town in North East India is best accessible by the Toy Train. Jalpaiguri is the closest railway station and the closest airport is in Siliguri.

Things to do in Darjeeling

• Ride the Toy Train to get to the hill town.
• Soak in the bliss at Batasia Loop and Gorkha War Memorial.
• Explore Tea Gardens at Happy Valley Tea Estate.
• Watch the majestic sunrise from Tiger Hill
• Trek to the Peace Pagoda at Charlemont Hill.
• Explore the wildlife at Padmaja Naidu Zoological Park.

Shillong, also known as the Scotland of the East is the most suitable answer to your question which is the perfect place for a summer holiday. It is really a splendid place to visit with your friends & family during the summers.

How to Reach?

Shillong Airport in Umroi is the nearest airport. Bus services are provided by Meghalaya Transport Corporation. Guwahati railway station is the closest railway station situated at a distance of 105 km from Shillong.

Things to do in Shillong

• Boating in Umiam Lake
• Sightsee Elephant Falls, Shillong Peak, Sweet Falls, Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures, Lady Hydari Park, etc.
• Angling at Dawki
• Trekking to Meghalaya Living Root Bridge, Kyllang Rock, and Sophet Bneng
• Camping, Horse riding, rock climbing and waterfall rappelling
• River rafting or Kayaking at Kynshi River

If you are looking for an unusual holiday destination in India for the summers then Kanatal should be on your list. It is a charming village located near Mussoorie. This place is surrounded by lofty mountains as well as plush green. Something that you cannot miss here is the splendid sunrise and sunset.

How to Reach?

Kanatal by train. Rishikesh (75 km) and Dehradun (85 km) are the closest railway stations to Kanatal. They are connected to many major cities via rail networks. You can take a taxi or ride a bus to reach Kanatal.

Things to do in Kanatal

• Witness The Spots It’s Famous For
• Get Closer To Nature
• Spend Night Under The Star-Studded Sky
• Glide Amidst Towering Greens
• Fight Your Fears
• Explore The Wild Side

Settled in the lush lap of Western Ghats, Munnar is a perfect escape when the temperature goes up in the summers. Munnar is not too far from Kerala which is also known as God’s Own Country.

How to Reach?

Munnar is the beautiful hill station of Kerala and well connected to cities. Kochi International Airport and Ernakulam Railway station are the closest air and rail connection.

Things to do in Munnar

• Enjoy the lush beauty of tea gardens.
• See Kundala Lake, Echo Point, and Elephant Lake
• Trek to Anamudi Peak
• Explore Tata Tea Museum
• Pay a visit to Chithirapuram, Devikulam, and Chinnakanal
• Stay in a treehouse
• Trekking to the echo point, mountain biking, Shikara ride in Kundala Lake

Rishikesh is one of the most beautiful places to visit in summer holidays with your family. Don’t forget to attend the evening and morning aarti held on the banks of River Ganga which will definitely rejuvenate you.

How to Reach?

Rishikesh has the nearest international connection with Delhi Airport or Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. The nearest railway station is in Haridwar.

Things to do in Rishikesh

• River rafting in River Ganga
• Camping on the river banks
• Bodysurfing
• Fox-flying on wires suspended between two mountains.
• See ancient temples
• Know all about Yoga
• Indulge in Ayurveda and meditation at the Ashrams.

Lakshadweep islands are not just beautiful tropical islands in India but also in the world. The mesmerizing scenery, remote location, and amazing weather are a few things that will make your summer vacation memorable.

How to Reach?

Kochi, Kerala is the gateway to the emerald islands of Lakshadweep. Cruises and frequent flights are available for Agatti and Bangaram Island.

Things to do in Lakshadweep

• Explore the beautiful coral reefs.
• Enjoy swimming, wind-surfing, diving, snorkeling, and kayaking.

Located in Nilgiris, Ooty is one of the most famous destinations for summer holidays in South India. Don’t forget to enjoy the toy train ride experience and exploring tea estates along with colonial attractions.

How to Reach?

The Nilgiri Mountain railways are the best and easy way to get to reach the hill town. Tamil Nadu State Road Transport Corporation (TNSRTC) and many private bus services drive regularly. The closest airport is Coimbatore Airport 95 km from Ooty.

Things to do in Ooty

• Pay a visit to Coffee, tea plantations, botanical gardens.
• A fun Toy Train Ride in Nilgiri Mountain Railways.
• Trekking and Camping at Avalanche Lake.
• Enjoy a game of golf at the Golf Course.
• Picnic at the Emerald Lake, Kamaraj Sagar Dam, etc.

Mahabaleshwar is the beautiful hill station in the Western Ghats that is perfect for summer holidays with your special ones. This destination is known for adventurous trekking trails, delicious raspberries, and beautiful weather.

How to Reach?

Drive to Mahabaleshwar from Pune. MSRTC (Maharashtra State Road Transport Service) runs regular buses. Pune, 120 km, is the most convenient airport as well as a railway station.

Things to do in Mahabaleshwar

• Sightsee attractions like Mahabaleshwar Temple, Morarji Castle, Mount Malcolm, Rajpuri Caves, Wilson Point, and Pratapgad Fort
• Trekking the beautiful nature trails.
• Do not miss the Strawberry Festival, where you can eat strawberries to their heart’s delight in the 9 days-festival which usually takes place in the month of May.
• Holy pilgrimage to Shree Kshetra Mahabaleshwar, the temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
• Boating on Venna Lake

If you are looking for the best summer destination in India which is visited by fewer people then Kalimpong in West Bengal is a one-stop solution for you. This place is blessed with beautiful weather and several attractive tourist places.

How to Reach?

Bagdogra Airport is the nearest air terminal from Kalimpong. New Jalpaiguri Railway station is the closest rail station. Cabs are available from both, offering frequent connectivity to the hill town.

Things to do in Kalimpong

• Trek to Deolo Hill.
• Pay a visit to Pedong Monastery.
• Explore Dr. Graham’s Home.
• Pray at the Mangal Dham.

Kinnaur is widely popular around the world as the perfect place for summer vacation due to its calmness as well as appealing loveliness. The lush green forests, flowing rivers of Satluj, and rugged mountains are few things that make Kinnaur seem directly out of a fictional book.

How to Reach?

Kinnaur is a valley located in the state of Himachal Pradesh. It is connected by road to major cities like Dehradun and Shimla. It does not have an airport or rail connectivity. here is how to reach Kinnaur.

Things to do in Kinnuar

• Trekking
• Trout Fishing in Baspa River
• Rock Climbing
• Valley Crossing at Sangla
• Touring Monasteries and Temples
• Eating in Kinnaur
• Shopping in Kinnaur

Put away in the mountains of Jammu and Kashmir, Pahalgam is an untouched beauty that is a popular summer destination in India. Visiting this place is definitely a treat to your eyes, mind as well as the soul.

Pahalgam is sure to leave you surprised with its distinctive beauty which is formed by natural marvels. Chandanwari, Aru Valley, Mamaleshwara temple, Betaab valley, and Kolahi glacier are a few places that you should not miss while visiting Pahalgam.

How to Reach?

Srinagar airport is the closest domestic airport to Pahalgam which is approximately 95 km away. Pahalgam is well-connected with the neighboring cities of Srinagar and Jammu.

Things to do in Pahalgam

• Betab Valley for Bollywood Feels
• Mammal Temple for A Tranquil Escape
• Sheshnag Lake for Nature Lovers
• Lidder Amusement Park for an adventurous break
• Aru Village & Valley for Lush Meadows
• Baisaran Hills
• Avantipur Temple
• Pahalgam Golf Course

With time, Spiti has turned out to be the famous destination in India for summer vacation with friends. This place is as paradisiac as it can get. The long stretches of snaky roads along with deep valleys covered in lush green vegetation are a few things that will definitely leave you stunned.

How to Reach?

Kullu Airport at Kullu is the closest airport. One can board a taxi or rickshaw from the airport to reach the destination. Shimla is the closest railway station.

Things to do in Spiti Valley

• River Rafting
• Pin Valley National Park
• Buddhist Monasteries
• Camping
• Trek To Dhan Kar Lake
• Village Of Giu

Thus, summers are here, make plans with your friends and family for vacations by choosing the best places that are perfect for summer breaks.