When we think about summer, it’s the season of bright sun, mangoes, air coolers, ice cream, and holidays! Summers are incomplete without travelling to your grandparents’ house or taking a trip with them! Wondering why you would travel during this scorching weather? And where would you go? Don’t worry as we let you escape the summer heat by presenting you with the best places to visit during the summer in this article.
India is a land of beautiful landscapes and with so many choices, it becomes difficult to decide where to head towards. Your mind keeps oscillating between places and oh god, you land up going to those super cliche places with a sea full of people. Before you get all worked up, here we are to help you decide destinations that are offbeat and virgin from human interference.
Top 5 Places to go during Summer in North India
1. Kalpa
Kalpa is a small village, in Himachal Pradesh . It’s not very popular among tourists because it’s secluded from people’s interference. For those of you who are looking forward to spending some time in the laps of the mountains, watching the might of the Himalayas blanketed with white snow, and the sun sprinkling a dash of gold as it rises, Kalpa is just one of the best tourist places in north india. Apple orchards are a bonus.
Where is Kalpa?
Kalpa is located in a small district called Reckong Peo, almost 240 km away from Shimla. This beautiful village can be reached either by public buses or private vehicle. There are not many hotels in Kalpa but that hardly matters as the amazing homestay culture in the village allows travelers to get a first-hand experience of the Himachali culture and cuisine.
2. Auli
A new entrant to the list of tourist attractions, Auli is hidden towards the north of Uttrakhand. This “skiing destination in India” attracts many tourists during winters when the town wears a white sheet. But if you’re planning a trip to Auli during the summers, you’ll be surprised to see the hidden gems of nature. Chattrakund Lake, Joshimath, the artificial lake of Auli, etc., are some of the places with natural beauty beyond human imagination. Do not come back without camping under the sky in Auli in the summer. With the most thrilling experience, this is one of the exciting places to visit in North India.
Where is Auli?
Auli is located in the Chamoli District of Uttrakhand, at 10,010 ft above sea level. At a distance of 196 km, Rishikesh is the nearest railway station to Auli. You can also take a flight to Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, and then travel to Auli via public transport or a private taxi.
3. Kullu Manali
Kullu Manali in Himachal Pradesh is the perfect traveller and trekker destination. Snow-capped summits, the Beas River, deodar and pine trees, and fruit orchards provide picturesque vistas that allow people to escape the monotony of city life. Alternatively, a summer escape to Shimla temperature, which is India’s most popular tourist destination, may be invigorating and energizing. A trip to Dharamshala, with its Kareri Lake, Strawberry Hills, and expansive tea plantations, will be as enlightening and captivating as any other north east India tourism destination in Himachal Pradesh.
Where is kullu manali?
Manali is one of the most beautiful towns that is located near the northern end of the kullu valley at the height of 6,398 ft. The town is at a distance of 250 kilometers from Shimla, the capital of HP. The nearest airport to Manali is Bhuntar located 50 kilometers away from it. You can also take the bus which will be well-connected to tourist destinations like Leh, Shimla, and Delhi. Self drive on the road is also an option to reach Manali!
4. Ladakh
A trip to Jammu and Kashmir’s Nubra Valley, often known as the Valley of Flowers, is a backpacker’s dream. A simple look at the pious Buddhist temples, a leisurely stroll, an easy trek, or even a lengthy drive will quench your hunger for adventure and peace for several years. Alternatively, a trip to Gulmarg, Asia’s only hill-skiing resort with shimmering meadows and snow-capped mountains, might be exciting and enticing. Even leisurely cruises on quaint-looking houseboats on the Dal Lake in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir’s summer capital, makes it one of the sensational places to visit in north east india.
Where is Ladakh?
Ladakh is an Indian union territory in the northwestern Indian subcontinent, near the Karakoram and the westernmost Himalayan mountain ranges. The easiest way to travel to Ladakh is to take a flight. The nearest airport is Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport located in Leh.
5. Mussoorie
Mussoorie, nestled in the Himalayan foothills and surrounded by beautiful green plantations, is a destination that gives composed luxury to its tired tourists. The Shivalik hills, unusual flora and wildlife, and the beautiful Doon valley are all worth seeing. The Gun Hill ropeway ride, which takes you to Mussoorie’s second-highest peak, is an amazing experience.
Where is Mussoorie located?
Mussoorie is a hill station and municipal board in Uttarakhand, India. It is located in the Dehradun district. It’s around 35 kilometers (22 miles) north of Dehradun, the state capital, and 290 kilometers (180 miles) north of New Delhi, the national capital. The hill station is located in the Garhwal Himalayan range’s foothills. You can travel to Mussoorie in regular UPSRTC buses that run from kashmiri gate, Delhi to Dehradun.
6. Spiti Valley
This is a frigid Himalayan desert valley. This is where India and Tibet meet in the centre. Trekking, mountain biking, spectacular views, mountain forests, crystal-clear rivers, glacier backgrounds, monasteries, and much more are all popular activities in this area. During the summer, it is the best time to visit north east India, as the surrounding snow melts, revealing the true grandeur of the location. Choose a jeep safari if you like to sit back and relax. The two prominent monasteries in this area are Ki and Dhankar. Visit Tabo monastery if you admire the art and culture of this region.
Where is Spiti Valley?
Spiti Valley is a chilly, desert mountain valley located high in the Himalayas in the north-eastern section of Himachal Pradesh, India. You can always fly as Kullu airport is the nearest airport. Trains are also available near Shimla. Road transportation is convenient when airlines and trains aren’t available.
7. Darjeeling
Darjeeling, India’s tea capital, is a unique hill station nestled in the Himalayan foothills. Starting your holiday with a toy train excursion to the hill station is the best way to make the most of it. If your budget permits, go on a tea tour through a premium tea estate. It might be a small area in terms of geography. When it comes to tourism, this location is known for a variety of activities such as cable car rides, hiking, jeep safaris, mountain biking, mountain walking, rock climbing, and more. Peace pagoda, temples, vistas, Himalayan zoo, Batasia Loop, Observatory Hill, rock garden, Srubbery Park, and many more attractions are available for touring.
Where is Darjeeling?
Darjeeling is a city in India’s Eastern Himalayas, located at an elevation of 2,100 metres (7,000 feet) in the state of West Bengal’s northernmost area. It is well-known for its tea production. You can fly as Bagdogra Airport is the nearest airport by air connection. You can travel by train as New Jalpaiguri is the closest railhead to Darjeeling. You can also choose to travel by road.
8. Kasol
If you want to know if paradise exists in real life, visit Kasol. It’s a beauty unveiled by nature that can detox your mind to a whole new level. An amalgamation of beautiful villages and untouched nature, Kasol is the perfect place for a perfect summer retreat. Engross yourself in the freshness of nature as Kasol is unblemished by telephone signals. You will spend some time with yourself and your loved ones, making memories over deep conversations, laughter, and amazing Tibetan food. The village is famous for the monastery and its mind-blowing cafes, making it one of the best places to visit in north east India.
Where is Kasol?
This beauty is nestled away in the mountains near Kullu. The nearest bus stand and railway station to Kasol are Joginder Nagar and Rajpath. From there, you need to take public buses or a private vehicle. The beautiful villages in Kasol have warm-hearted hosts who treat you with love and feed you the regional cuisine.
Suggested Reading: Best Hill Stations Near Delhi within 5 Hours Drive!
9. Chopta
They call it the “Switzerland of Uttrakhand” and you HAVE to agree. Chopta is home to dwindling pine trees, deodars and a hub for solitude seekers. The quintessential meadows and unaltered beauty of evergreen forests attract many trekkers and travelers to Chopta every year. While in Chopta, you can breathe in the fresh air, lose yourself in the lush green and praise the grandeur of the mighty peaks like Trishul, Nanda Devi, and Chaukhamba on all sides. You can spend some time in the lap of nature by trekking, camping or maybe indulging in yoga and meditation.
Where is Chopta?
Chopta is just 162 km away from Rishikesh and is well connected with public buses and private cars, just like any other hill station in North India. With a mesmerizing view throughout the journey in those public buses, you can play all your favorite songs and indulge in some introspection while you reach the beautiful village.
10. Chamba
Already humming “Chamba kitni door” in your head? I am sure every time you hear this soulful track, it makes you want to visit Chamba. Well, maybe this time you can actually go to this unspoiled part of nature. A little away from the famous tourist spots like Dalhousie and Dharamshala, Chamba is a quiet place near Shimla. The beauty of the river Ravi gushing through the hills of Chamba is a sight of dreams and is extremely refreshing. You will never regret ditching the “popular” hill stations for this silent beauty that’ll keep a part of your heart when you leave. The town is also famous for its “Pahari paintings, art, and craft.”
Where is Chamba?
Chamba is a town in Himachal Pradesh. The nearest railway station to Chamba is Pathankot, which is about 120 km away. The nearest airport to Chamba is Jammu, but you need to travel for a good 6 hours to reach the town by car or bus.
Beautiful Places to visit in North-East India during Summers
1. Pelling, Sikkim
It’s time to ditch the beaches. This summer, relish the hills. Pelling, located at the foothills of mount kanchenjunga is ideal for this. The place takes you on a 17th-century nostalgia trip with its Buddhist monasteries, palaces, and ruins. The weather is extremely pleasant, especially near the Kanchenjunga falls.
2. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
A Times article once said that Tawang is a place “where you can sit for hours, doing nothing.” The beautiful town is situated at an altitude of 3,048 meters. So, when you are at Tawang, you are literally at the top of the world! Must-visit spots include the 400-year-old Buddhist monastery, Sela Pass, Gorichen Peak, and Nuranang Waterfalls.
3. Chadar, Leh- Ladakh
The Chadar Trek is a winter trail over the frozen Zanskar River. Also known as the Zanskar Gorge, this trail is used by locals as their only means of transport during winters. If you are up for a good adventure, then Chadar Trek is the one for you.
4. Ziro Valley
Situated in Arunachal Pradesh, Ziro Valley is something of a dream. The place entrances you with its natural flora. It is surrounded by a breathtaking landscape of pine-clad hills. If you are headed here, then summer is the best time. You will be in awe of how the valley is so cool, even in the summers.
5. Dawki, Meghalaya
Dawki is a beautiful town in the West Jaintia Hills district of Meghalaya. The town is most famous for its river, also known as the Dawki. As you can guess from this picture, the Dawki river is really clean. In fact, it has a reputation for being the cleanest river in all of Asia. A swim in the pristine river and a ‘sky walk’ on bamboo trails towards the highest point in the area are great for your soul.
WRAPPING UP
Picking the right place to visit in North India during the summer is no easy task. There is no shortage of options when planning a summer vacation in North India, from huge mountains to lovely valleys, hill stations to green meadows, monasteries to temples. The list of sites described above is our honest attempt to help you organize an unforgettable summer vacation with your family, friends, coworkers, or spouse. Even on a shoestring budget, you can plan a vacation and make the most of it.