Best Places to Visit in India in Summer
Moreover, several families also opt for this time as schools & academic institutions, including colleges generally have summer vacations. Here are the Best Places to Visit in India hand - picked for you to enjoy this summer. summer is just not about sweat and heat; it is about summer vacations and memorable moments spend amidst the beautiful landscapes of India.
Andaman & Nicobar Islands
A cluster of 562 islands, Andaman & Nicobar is a tropical paradise to relax and rejuvenate. You must Andaman & Nicobar Islands to Scuba Dive and Snorkel in the clear, turquoise waters of Bay of Bengal. Get an amazing view of the varied marine life swimming underwater and get a lifetime experience touching the blood red corals. You can even sea-walk at North Bay Island, with school of fish swimming all around you. Parasailing, wind surfing, kayaking and water skiing are the other kinds of adventure sports that you can enjoy here. Witness history at the Cellular Jail Memorial. This used to be the colonial prison for the British rulers and the sea was then known as the 'Kala Paani'
Trek from Mount Harriet to Madhuban to check out the special flora and fauna of the islands. Trek to the tiny village of Chidiya Tapu to listen to the joyous tweets of parakeets, emerald doves, sea eagles, to name a few.
Visit the Mahatma Gandhi National Marine Park to view a stunning collection of gorgeous coral reefs and marine life. The Forest Museum is a treasure house of wooden artifacts while the Anthropological Museum takes you close to the tribal life of Andaman.
Leh-Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir
Leh-Ladakh is one of the most amazing places in India; quite aloof from rest of the country. This high altitude cold desert is encircled by the Karakoram Peaks and is decorated by beautiful lakes and mighty rivers, like Indus and Zanskar. The must-do activities at Leh-Ladakh include:Worship at the multiple Buddhist monasteries, like the Shanti Stupa, Sankar Monastery, Hemis Monastery, Matho Monastery, Lamayuru Monastery, Alchi Monastery and many others. Trek through the Nubra Valley and Tso Moriri to reach the Hemis National Park; the largest national park in North India and safe shelter for snow leopards. Trekking through Chadar ice-trek over shaky snow bridges, through Markha Valley, Henaskut to Wanla, Lamayuru to Pandum and through the rustic villages of Likerto Khaltse, gives you an insight into the Ladakhi culture and takes you through the spellbinding scenic beauty of the place. River Raft through the fast rapids of River Indus; popular routes being Hemis - Stakna - Shey - Thiksey - Choglamsar and Alchi - Khaltsey for the more adventurous.
Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir
Kashmir, known as the Paradise on Earth offers a different taste to your vacation. Here you can stay on House boats: It is a lifetime experience to stay on the well decorated and well equipped houseboats of Dal Lake. Here you open your eyes to the sight of shikaras sailing on the water, selling flowers and other products. if you want to avoid the hustle and bustle of the Dal Lake, stay at the houseboats of Nagin Lake.
Sikkim
Encircled with the snow capped Himalayas, Sikkim is an awe-inspiring tourist destination of India. Rejuvenate your body and soul listening to the ripples of River Teesta and strolling through 200 species of orchids. Must-do activities at Sikkim include
Hike through the sprawling greenery at the Himalayan Valleys of Sikkim. Inhale fresh air at the Rhododendron Forests or witness a mesmerizing sunrise at the Kanchenjunga Peak. You can also enjoy a breathtaking scenic beauty at the banks of Lake Tsogmo, reflecting the images of the Himalayan Range over the crystalline waters.
Trek at the tranquil high altitude Goecha La which takes you through the Dzongri and Thangsing meadows; Lamuney is the highest point for camping at Sikkim.
Coorg, Karnataka
Popularly termed as the Scotland of India, Coorg is a treat to the eyes. As far as you can see you will have stretches of green meadows while cool breeze kisses your face. You must home stay to experience the local culture and life style. This also gives you an opportunity to relish authentic cuisines like appam and rich pork curry, known as pandi. Among drinks, the lemon grass tea and fresh coffee of Coorg refreshes you after a long trip.
Trek to get close to the amiable nature of Coorg. Pushpagiri, Kotebetta, Thadiyandamol and Brahmagiri are some of the places for trekking at Coorg.
Raft at the Barapole River or be more adventurous with quad biking amidst the coffee plantations of Coorg for a different vacation. If you are in a mood for serenity and solitude, be at the Valanoor fishing camp. It is located at the backwaters of River Kaveri and has several species of freshwater fish, like, mahaseer, catfish and Eel.
Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Nestled amidst the Dauladhar range and PirPanjal mountains, Manali is the paradise for lovers. Located at a height of 2050 meters, Manali is a spot to play at the snow carpets of Manali. Explore the spellbinding natural beauty of the Himalayas trekking at the Hampta Pass. Get chilled with white river rafting on the wild waters of River Beas or shore high in the sky with paragliding and ski on the icy grounds of Rohtang Pass. Roll down the sprawling green hills of Solang Valley for some fun.
Darjeeling
If you want to wake up to the peeping sun from behind the snow peaks of Kanchenjunga or if you want to have a playful vacation, Darjeeling is your summer escapade. Here you can ride the toy trains, which take you round the sprawling greenery of Darjeeling. Pray at the Peace Pagoda and Ghoom Monastery to feel peaceful. Walk through the dew drenched tea plantations and sip a cup of exotic Darjeeling tea to feel refreshed. Witness a mesmerizing sunrise from the Tiger Hill, as the sky gets painted with sublime colors.
Buy curios from the make shift stalls of Batasia Loop. Checkout the various kinds of trekking equipment at the Himalaya Mountaineering Institute while the zoo located within its premises is a safe shelter for Red Panda, Snow Leopards, Himalayan Deer and Black Bear.
Sail over the crystalline waters of Sumendu Lake at Mirik. Observe the blend of Buddhist and Hindu cultures at the Mahakal Temple. Buy fresh cardamoms, Pashmina shawls and woolen carpets from the Tibetan markets. Relish hot chicken momo dipped in homemade sauces or thick noodle soup, Thukpa to keep yourself warm or spice up your life tasting dalle, a local pickle.
Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Yes, if you are looking for silence and solitude, Tawang welcomes you. Located at an altitude of 10,000 feet, this summer retreat is best known for Tawang Monastery which relates to the 14th century. This is the second largest monastery of Asia and a treasure house of old manuscripts, books and artifacts related to Buddhism. The Tipi Orchid Sanctuary is a 100 sq. kms protected area. You can trek through the dense woods to enjoy the natural habitat of the orchids or play with the baby elephants at the nearby Eagle nest Wildlife Sanctuary.
Sela Pass, which is the only high altitude pass of the world which is motorable. Drive through the Sela Pass to enjoy the bewitching scenic beauty of the surroundings. The Paradise Lake on the way is another gem in the nature's creation.
Gorichen Peak is a challenge to the trekkers and once you reach the 22,500 feet hill top, you will not regret the toil, due to the panoramic view of the lush greenery and snow White Mountain peaks that await your presence. The 16000 feet elevation of Bumla Pass is another trekking destination which can boost your adrenaline to the fullest.
Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
The spellbinding beauty of Mussoorie has earned it the name of Queen of Hills. The most visited places in Mussoorie are Lal Tibba is the highest point, perched at 2346 meters. Shadowed with pine and deodar trees, this sloping hills brings you more close to nature.
Happy Valley gives you an in-depth view of the Tibetan culture and also is a gateway to the scenic hotspot like Cloud's End. Jirapani Falls is another piece of natural beauty; a white cascade gushing down from the Shivalik Range, wrapped with flowers, creepers and shrubs.
Auli, Uttarakhand
If you want to avoid the tourist crowd, be at the lowlands of Auli. There are several reasons to visit Auli, like skiing at one of the highest Ski Resort of the world. At summer, this skiing destination transforms into a Valley of Flowers, which is a photographer's paradise.
Getting 180 degrees view of the Nanda devi Range. You can also get a bird's eye view of the towering mountains from the cable car rides of Auli; this is the highest and longest ropeway of Asia after Gulmarg. Located at 3010 meters above sea level, this place is also popular amongst paragliders. Boating over Auli artificial lake; one of the highest man-made lakes of the world. The Chenab Lake is another crystalline water body where you can spend some pleasant time boating and relaxing.
Trekking at Gorson Bugyal, an elevation of 3056 meters. This green pasture is surrounded by coniferous forests and oak trees. Chattarkund, lying just 1 km away from Gurso Bugyal is another trekking destination; a fresh water lake at the heart of the dense forest. Trek to Kwani Bugyal meadow, lying at a height of 3380 meters from where you can get a majestic view of Mt. Nandadevi and Mt. Dunagiri. Camping at this huge meadow and lying under the moonlit sky is a memory for life.
Wayanad, Kerala
This green paradise is a treat to the eyes. The long stretches of paddy fields, the chilled mist, the thick forests and the joyous tweets of birds, all blends to create a soothing natural ambience at Wayanad. Here you can hike at the towering hills of 6900 feet; Chembra Peak bring the highest trekking spot. Nestled at an altitude of 1740 meters, the Pakshipathalam Caves are deep rock caverns houses some of the rarest flora and fauna of South. The Banasura Ranges is another exciting trekking destination, dotted with steep slopes, gorges, mountain streams and deep thickets. The Neelimala View Point is a unique trekking spot with the scent of ginger and areca nuts filling the air. The Valley of Clouds, the Kurisumala Peak and the Kalladi Forests are the other hiking and trekking spots of Wayanad.
Munnar
Situated in 'God's own Country', Kerala, this quiet and picturesque hill station is one of the 20 best places to visit in India in May. See elephants at the Carmelagiri Elephant Park in Munnar. Go mountain biking and trekking and visit Echo Point and get to climb up to stay in a 'tree house'. Admire the Western Ghats with waterfalls stepping down and go fishing at Sita Devi Lake. Stroll along while taking in the refreshing aroma through lush green tea plantations. For wildlife lovers Eravikulam (Rajamalai) National Park is the best choice to see the flora and fauna.
Mount Abu
Mount Abu lies in Aravali Mountain Range and the only hill station in desert state Rajasthan. This place is popularly known as the oasis in the desert and is one lovely destination to visit in India during May. There are several lakes, green forests, rivers and waterfalls to cool down at. There is one famous spot that got its name from the look of it. It is called Toad Rock because it resembles a toad. People can climb atop the rock and even sit to get a view over the Nakki Lake. It gives an amazing feel. Dilwara Jain Temples, Abbu Road, Achalgarh Village, Guru Shikhar, Adhar Devi Temple and Wildlife Sanctuary are the top tourist attractions of Mount Abu.
Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
Perched at the Palani Hills, this hill station is at an elevation of 7200 feet. The foggy weather, the twisted roads, dense woods and echoing hills of Kodaikanal beckons the romantic hearts. Here you can Stroll around the Kodaikanal Lake hand in hand with your loved ones enjoying the pleasant breeze coming from the hills or sail over its waters watching a colorful sunset. Coakers Walk takes you through the deep valleys, filled with tweets of numerous birds and aromatic with clusters of vibrant flowers. Absorb the beauty of nature at Pillar Rocks, encircled with fog, standing high at 122 meters.Get kissed by the clouds at the Green Valley View point or spend some time just by yourself at the banks of the Berijam Lake.
Trek at the Dolphin's Nose, 2000 meters deep and providing a breathtaking view of the Western Ghats. Wash away the stress with the fresh waters of Liril Falls and Pambar.
Shillong, Meghalaya
Encircled by the Khasi Hills from all sides, Shillong is one of the most wonderful tourist destinations of India. Fill your heart with fresh air at the rolling hills of Shillong, besides touching the clouds at the 2000 meters high Shillong Peak. This is also an ideal picnic spot with villages lying at its foothills, which look more like tiny dots from the top. Feeling the splashes of cold waters from the luxuriant Bishop's Falls, Beadon Falls, Crinoline Falls, Elephant Falls and Spread Eagle Falls or sailing over the mirrored waters of the Ward's Lake. Walk through the spectacular garden surrounding this artificial, horse-shoe shaped lake or feed the numerous species of fish which fill the lake.
Ooty
This is one of India's most beautiful and scenic hill stations. There is lush greenery and people get the best view of the famous Nilgiris from here. The whole city can be best viewed at Doddabetta Peak. Admire the multicolored botanical gardens and nature walk at Cairn Hill to see birds and animals peeking out now and then. See quiet waters at Upper Bhavani Lake while slight gushing waters in Pykara Lake. The Western Catchment is where you literally see mountains on the earth touching the clouds in the skies. This place is popular for honeymoon in South India and one can visit this place anytime.
Coonoor
Coonoor is the second largest hill station in Tamilnadu and 50 km. away from Ooty. This is another quiet pasture of the tea gardens. This hill station is even more peaceful and quite than Ooty making it another perfect spot to cool off the summer heat in May. This is one of the best places to visit in India during May. Take a ride on the Heritage train to get the best views of picturesque hills & nature side. This is the best weather to play Golf at the Wellington Gymkhana Club Golf Course. The Laws falls cascading down takes your breath away. Sim's Park, Lambs Rock, Dolphin Nose, The Taj Garden.
Matheran, Maharashtra
This small hill station of Maharashtra is perched at the Sahyadri Range and is a green heaven. The tourist hotspots of Matheran are Charlotte Lake: This serene picnic spot fills your holiday with fun.
Look- out Points: The Echo Point, Porcupine Point, Monkey Point, Panorama Point and Heart Point are some of the highest places at Matheran from where you can get a panoramic view of the surroundings.
Trekking: This is the nearest trekking destination to Mumbai. Trek from the Bhivpuri Station to Garbert Plateau to deep dive into the natural beauty of the hill station.
Horse Riding: Looking for some sun and thrill? Ride horses through Matheran, galloping from one place to another.
Valley Crossing: This is an awesome trip from Honeymoon Point to Louisa Point, where you get to know nature and can restore your health amidst the blissful nature.
Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh
If you want to get a vibe of the colonial charm of India, be at this only hill station of Madhya Pradesh. Enveloped with green valleys and natural lakes, this hill station brings to you a new way of life through trekking and leisure walks at Reechgarh, Bada Mahadeo, Pandav Caves, Padmini Lake, Priyadarshini Point and Apsara Vihar.
Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra
This exotic hill station of Maharashtra beckons tourists with its pleasant weather and lush greenery. The quiet hills of Mahabaleshwar has Peaks like Needle Hole Point, Arthur's Seat, Kate's Point, Wilson's Point and the 3 Monkey Point, from where you can get a panoramic view of the breathtaking beauty of the place.
The Veena Lake, which is born from the gushing waters of a stream, reflects the bewitching beauty of the surrounding greenery.
Masinagudi, Karnataka
If you want to be in the laps of nature this summer, be at Masinagudi National Park. Spread over a massive area of 60 sq. kms, this national park is a safe shelter to grey langurs and bonnet macaques. Tigers, leopards, bears, elephants, golden jackals, striped hyenas and multiple avian species like Malabar Trojan, crested hawks, eagles and tit babbler fill the jungle with twitters. The forest is also dense and diverse with tall bamboo plants, stretches of teak woods and with blooming trees like Indian Labumusum, Aredesia, Solanancea