20 Best Places to Visit in Summer: Your Ultimate Guide!

Ready to add some more fridge magnets to your collection? India’s coolest spots are calling you!

India truly has it all to turn your summer into an unforgettable vacation! From the breathtaking beauty of Kashmir to the majestic mountains of Manali, the thrilling bike rides in Ladakh to the serene backwaters of Kerala, and the turquoise waters of the Andaman Islands, India offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to every traveller’s preferences.

When there are so many options for great places to visit in summer and everyone suggests different places, it’s normal to feel confused! But worry not, we’re here to tell you about the best places to travel in the summer and provide you with all the information about all the places to see in summer, so you can choose according to your preferences. Leaving the confusion aside, join us to have a detailed look at all the best places to visit in summer that will bring you a new journey and unique experience. Here’s a categorised list of best places to visit in summer to meet your specific needs:

Suggested Read: Fly To The Best Summer Holiday Destinations In The World

Hill Stations: Ideal Summer Places to Travel

2. Auli

3. Mussoorie

4. Darjeeling

5. Munnar

6. Ooty

7. Wayanad

8. Pachmarhi

9. Coorg

10. Mahabaleshwar

Places to See in Summer for Adventure/Trekking Lovers

12. Spiti Valley

13. Sikkim

14. Rishikesh

Places to See in Summer for Beach Lovers

16. Andaman and Nicobar Islands

17. Puri

Places to See in Summer for Mountain/Nature Lovers

19. Shillong

20. Panchgani

Your Dream India Summer Vacation: Hill Stations Await!

1. Manali: Discover Great Places to Visit in the Summer

Out of all the places to visit in Manali, don’t miss out on the stunning Solang Valley, the peaceful Hadimba Temple, and the lively vibe of Old Manali with its cosy cafes and busy markets.Manali is one of the great places to visit in summer in Himachal Pradesh, surrounded by beautiful green landscapes, mountains, and sloping houses. Some areas are covered with snow, making it look like a picture-perfect place. It’s so beautiful that you’ll feel like you need to pinch yourself to believe it’s real!

Suggested Read: Explore The Top Travel Tips For Manali For Making The Most Of This Beautiful Destination

Must-see attractions: 

• Hadimba Temple
• Solang Valley
• Rohtang Pass
• Vashisht Temple

Best activities to do:

• Paragliding
• Rafting
• Skiing
• Adventure Sports

Average budget: INR 15,000 to 35,000 for 7 days

Places to stay: luxury resorts, hotels near The Mall Road and cosy homestays

Best time to visit: October to June

Best Places to eat: 

• Café 1947 
• Drifter’s Café
• The Lazy Dog

2. Auli: Spot the Great Places to Visit in the Summer

Auli is one of the  best places to visit in summer to witness snow-covered landscapes, surrounded by tall mountains that offer a glimpse into another world.

Must-see attractions: 

• Auli Artificial Lake
• Kwani Bugyal
• Joshimath

Suggested Read: 13 Places To Visit In Uttarakhand This Summer

Best activities to do:

• Skiing and Snowboarding
• Trekking
• Camping
• Cable Car Ride

Average budget: INR 7,000 to 15,000 for a 3 day trip. 

Places to stay: 

• Auli Resort
• The Royal Village Auli
• GMVN Tourist Rest House

Best time to visit: Throughout the year

Best Places to eat: 

• GMVN Auli Restaurant
• Himalayan Abode Cafe 
• Auli D’s Food Plaza

3. Mussoorie: Explore Best Places to Travel in the Summer

If you are looking for some good places to visit in summer,  Mussoorie which is situated in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand is known for its serene beauty. Mussoorie’s Mall Road is well-known for its lively vibe and wide range of shops, where you’ll find plenty of souvenirs and local treats. Don’t forget to try the exciting cable rope ride to Gun Hill and visit the beautiful Kempty Falls to complete your trip! It offers the best weekend trips for people living nearby.

Must-see attractions: 

• Mall Road
• Kempty Falls
• Gun Hills
• Lal Tibba

Best activities to do:

• Trekking
• Paragliding
• Ziplining
• Cable Car Ride

Average budget: INR 8,000 to 20,000 for a week  

Places to stay: 

• The Savoy
• JW Marriott Walnut Grove Resort
• Rokeby Manor

Best time to visit:  September to June

Best Places to eat: 

• Lovely Omelette Centre
• The Tavern
• Neelam

Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Delhi To Escape Heatwave: Beat The Heatwave!

4. Darjeeling: Discover Best Places to Visit for the Summer

It’s also a beautiful destination in West Bengal, for spending your summer days, with pleasant weather throughout the year. Kanchenjunga, the highest peak in India is visible from here, and the scenery is so breathtaking that it will make you fall in love with the place.

The best attractions in Darjeeling include Darjeeling-Rangeet Valley Passenger Ropeway which is the longest cable car in Asia. Also, Tiger Hill is a fantastic spot to witness the sunrise over the mountains.

Must-see attractions:

• Tiger Hill
• Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
• Tea Plantations
• Batasia Loop

Best activities to do:

• Ropeway
• Paragliding
• Trekking
• Mountain Biking

Average budget:  INR 7,000 to 25,000 for a 3 days  

Places to stay: 

• Mayfair Darjeeling
• Windamere Hotel
• Sinclairs Darjeeling
• Summit Swiss Heritage Hotel.

Best time to visit:  February to March and September to December

Best Places to eat: 

• Keventers
• Sonam’s Kitchen
• Zakir Hussain Road

5. Munnar: Spot the Best Places to Visit for the Summer

This city is one of the best places to visit in summer and offers exciting adventures like trekking, hiking, camping, and Jeep Safari. You’ll be surrounded by the aroma of spices such as cardamom, ginger, cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, and coffee. Don’t miss out on the delicious homemade chocolates available in the town’s shops.

Must-see attractions:

• Echo Point
• Attukad Waterfalls
• Tea Plantations
• Tata Tea Museum

Best activities to do:

• Rock Climbing
• Jeep Safari
• Trekking
• Mountain Biking
• River Crossing

Average budget:  INR 6,000 to 25,000 for a week 

Suggested Read: Munnar Travel Guide: Explore The Top Attractions And Activities

Places to stay: 

• Blanket Hotel & Spa Munnar
• Amber Dale Luxury Hotel and Spa
• Chandys Windy Woods

Best time to visit: September to May

Best Places to eat: 

• Copper Castle
• Saravana Bhavan
• Arabian Grills

6. Ooty: Find the Great Places to Visit in the Summer

If you are looking for some good places to visit in summer, Ooty is the perfect destination to experience lush greenery, tea gardens, waterfalls, hills, charming architecture, and iconic sights like Ooty Lake and Dolphin’s Nose.

Must-see attractions:

• Botanical Garden
• Ooty Lake
• Doddabetta Peak
• Toy Train

Best activities to do:

• Hiking and Trekking
• Boating
• Horse Riding
• Visit Doddabetta Peak
• Wax Museum

Average budget:  INR 6,000 to 25,000 for a week 

Places to stay: 

• Pebrock Heritage Inn
• Space 4 Resort
• Orchid Inn

Best time to visit: Throughout the year

Best Places to eat: 

• Willy’s Coffee Pub
• Oven The Restaurant
•  Earl’s Secret

Suggested Read: 9 Best Places To Eat In Ooty: The Foodie’s Guide

7. Wayanad: Uncover the Best Places to Travel in the Summer

The best attractions in Wayanad which will leave a long lasting memory include Chembra peak, the highest peak in Wayanad to witness the breathtaking views from the summit. Pookode Lake provides a peaceful escape in the lap of Mother Nature.

Must-see attractions:

• Edakkal Caves
• Chembra Peak
• Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
• Pookode Lake

Best activities to do:

• Trekking
• Hiking
• Mountain Biking
•  Ziplining

Average budget: INR 15,000 to 40,000 for a week 

Places to stay: 

• Vythiri Village Resort
• Wayanad Wild – CGH Earth
• Banasura Hill Resort
•  Lakkidi Village Resort.

Best time to visit: Throughout the year

Best Places to eat: 

• Elixir Wildlife Hotel
• The Windflower Vythiri Resort
• Carmelia Haven Wayanad
• Wayanad Gate

Suggested Read: Wayanad Travel Guide: Explore The Best-Kept Secret Of Kerala

8. Pachmarhi: Find the Best Places to Travel in the Summer

Must-see attractions:

• Jatashankar Caves
• Reechgarh
• Pandav Caves
• Dhoopgarh
• Bee Falls

Best activities to do:

• Hiking and Trekking
• Boating on Patalganga River
• Sightseeing
• Wildlife spotting at Satpura National Park

Average budget: INR 15,000 to 40,000 for a week 

Places to stay: 

• Golf View Retreat
• Moustache Paharpani Retreat
• Hotel Pachmarhi

Best time to visit: Throughout the year

Best Places to eat: 

• The Arks Point
• Machan The Rooftop Restaurant
• Sai Ki Rasoi Restaurant

9. Coorg: Uncover the Best Places to Travel in the Summer

The aroma of natural coffee plantations located in Coorg is more tempting than “Starbucks” coffee, whose scent is so tempting that coffee lovers cannot resist themselves. One of the great places to visit in summer!

Must-see attractions:

• Abbey Falls
• Dubare Elephant Camp
• Talakaveri
• Madikeri Fort

Best activities to do:

• Coffee Plantation Tour
• Trekking and Hiking
• Ayurvedic Rejuvenation
• Wildlife Spotting

Average budget: INR 7,000 to 14,000 for 3 days trip. 

Places to stay: 

• Coorg Wilderness Resort & Spa
• Evolve Back, Coorg
• Club Mahindra Madikeri

Best time to visit: October to March

Best Places to eat: 

• East End Hotel
• Taste Of Coorg
• The Falls at The Tamara Coorg

10. Mahabaleshwar: Spot the Best Places to Visit for the Summer

It’s a perfect weekend getaway for people living in Pune and Mumbai, but it’s popular among people from all over India as well.

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Maharashtra

Must-see attractions:

• Pratapgad Fort
• Venna Lake
• Arthur’s Seat
• Elephant’s Head Point
• Lingmala Waterfall

Best activities to do:

• Boating on Venna Lake
• Horse riding
• Trekking and hiking
• Sightseeing
• Strawberry picking (seasonal)

Average budget: INR 7,000 to 14,000 for 3 days trip. 

Best Places to stay: 

• The Mahabaleshwar Strawberry Resort
• The Vineet Resort

Best time to visit: October to March

Best Places to eat: 

• The Rooftop
• Pizzeria La Creazione
• Govinda’s Restaurant

Summer Destinations for Trekking and Adventure

11. Ladakh: Spot the Best Places to Visit for the Summer

Ladakh is adorned with monasteries, temples, stupas, and crystal clear lakes like Pangong Tso which stands out as one of the most brackish water’s lakes and it is very famous because of its blue colour. Ladakh is one of the nice places to visit in the summer!

Suggested Read: Leh Ladakh In November: A Detailed Travel Guide.

Must-see attractions:

• Pangong Tso
• Hemis Monastery
• Leh Palace
• Shanti Stupa
• Thiksey Monastery

Best activities to do:

• Trekking
• Rafting
• Mountain Biking
• Jeep Safari
• Stargazing

Average budget: INR 20,000 to 40,000 for a week 

Best Places to stay: 

• The Indus Valley Retreat
• Chamba Camp Dictaphone
• The Matt Hotel

Best time to visit: Throughout the year

Best Places to eat: 

• Gesmo Restaurant
• The Tibetan Kitchen
• Ladayuru Restaurant

12. Spiti Valley: Find the Best Places to Travel in the Summer

With its barren lands, stunning scenery, and towering mountains, it’s a beauty you never thought nature could create!

Tibetan culture and Monasteries are the major attractions of this valley. There are tons of things to do in Spiti Valley so don’t miss this one of the best places to visit in summer for your India summer vacations!

Must-see attractions:

• Dhankar Lake
• Kunzum Pass
• Chandratal Lake
• Langza Village
• Komic Village

Best activities to do:

• Mountain Biking
• Homestay Experience
• Camping
• Stargazing

Average budget: INR 9,000 to 15,000 for 3 days 

Best Places to stay: 

• Spiti Eco Lodge
• Demul Guesthouse

Best time to visit: March to June

Best Places to eat: 

• Hotel Spiti Yak
• Moon Dance Cafe
• Dhaba at Kunzum Pass

13. Gangtok: Uncover the Best Places to Travel in the Summer

The best thing about Gangtok is the stunning view of Mount Kanchenjunga, the third highest peak in the world. That’s why it’s a perfect place offering the best India summer vacation!

Gangtok is also full of beautiful natural attractions like Tsomgo Lake, Ban Jhakri Falls, Tashi Viewpoint, and more.

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Gangtok: Unfolding The 32 Gems Of Sikkim

Must-see attractions:

• Tsomgo Lake
• Nathula Pass
• Rumtek Monastery
• MG Marg
• Hanuman Tok

Best activities to do:

• Mountain Biking
• Trekking
• Cable Car Ride
• Stargazing

Average budget: INR 7,000 to 15,000 for a 3 day trip.

Best Places to stay: 

• Sikkim Tourist Guest House
• Chumbi Residency
• Mayfair Gangtok

Best time to visit: Throughout the year

Best Places to eat: 

• Taste of Tibet
• Roll House
• The Orchid House
• Doma Kitchen

14. Rishikesh: Find the Great Places to Visit in the Summer

One of the main attractions that draw people from all over the world is the famous Ganga Aarti, which brings peace and enlightenment. There’s also the iconic Ram and Laxman Jhulas over the rivers and crystal-clear lakes surrounded by mountains.

One of the best activities here is white water river rafting in the pure Ganga River! It’s the most thrilling rafting experience you can find in one of the best places to visit in summer. It offers the best weekend trips for people living nearby.

Must-see attractions:

• Triveni Ghat
• Laxman Jhula
• Ram Jhula
• The Beatles Ashram
• Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

Best activities to do:

• River Rafting
• Yoga and Meditation
• Ayurveda Rejuvenation
• Trekking

Average budget: INR 10,000 to 30,000 for a week

Best Places to stay: 

• The Neeraj Ganga Heritage Palace
• Sterling Palm Bliss
• Aloha on the Ganges
• Atali Ganga
• EllBee Ganga View

Best time to visit: Throughout the year

Best Places to eat: 

• The 60’s Beatles Café
• Ganga Beach Cafe
• Bistro Nirvana

Best Places to Visit in Summer for Beach Lovers

15. Goa: Find the Best Places to Travel in the Summer

Goa isn’t just about beaches; it’s a whole different vibe! Enjoy epic road trips, cosy bonfires on the sand, hopping parties, and exploring colourful streets filled with funky art. Don’t miss the Basilica of Bom Jesus with its stunning baroque architecture, and discover hidden gems like Dudhsagar Waterfall.

As the sun sets, the real fun begins with non-stop dancing and unforgettable parties. After all the adventure, relax in fancy spas and enjoy some “me time” in the best places to visit in summer.

Grab your sunscreen and shades—Goa is calling, and you can’t miss out on this best place to visit in summer!

Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Goa

Must-see attractions:

• Baga Beach
• Dudhsagar Falls
• Calangute Beach
• Palolem Beach
• Old Goa (includes churches and cathedrals like Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral)

Best activities to do:

• Parasailing, jet skiing, and kayaking.
• Dolphin watching
• Backwaters cruise
• Nightlife
• Scuba diving and snorkelling

Average budget: INR 15,000 to 20,000 for a 3-4 day trip

Best Places to stay: 

• Colonia Santa Maria
• The LaLiT Golf & Spa Resort Goa
• Baga Hideout Resort
• Moustache Goa Luxuria

Best time to visit: November to February

Best Places to eat: 

• Calamari
•  Mum’s Kitchen
• Venite Bar & Restaurant.

16. Andaman Islands: Spot the Great Places to Visit in the Summer

This one of the best places to visit in summer is surrounded by vast blue seas, powdery white sands, and the soothing sound of waves, the Andaman Islands provide a truly relaxing experience. These islands will make you forget all your worries, give you the “Maldives” vibes.

It’s not just about the beaches. Andaman also offers lush greenery, rich wildlife, unique limestone caves like Baratang, and fascinating mud volcanoes that make you feel like you’ve stepped into an ancient world.

Suggested Read: Andaman In October:All You Need To Know In 2024

Must-see attractions:

• Kala Pathar beach
• Chidiya Tapu
• Limestone Cave Baratang
• Elephant beach
• Cellular Jail

Best activities to do:

• Scuba diving
• Surfing
• Snorkelling
• Dolphin boat ride
• Sea walking

Best Places to stay: 

• Sea Shell Resort & Spa
• Silver Sand Beach Resort
• SeaShell Samssara

Best time to visit: October to May

Best Places to eat: 

• Annapurna Restaurant
• Full Moon Cafe
• Bonova Café & Pub

17. Puri: Uncover the Best Places to Travel in the Summer

In the 1970s, Puri gained fame due to the legalisation of bhang but its availability is now limited.Tourists often stay near New Marine Drive, while backpackers prefer the Chakra Tirtha area. If you’re visiting in June-July, don’t miss the Rath Yatra (chariot festival), which is famous all over India. That’s why it’s a perfect place offering the best India summer vacation!

Must-see attractions:

• Jagannath Temple
• Puri Beach
• Konark Sun Temple
• Chilika Lake
• Lighthouse

Best activities to do:

• Temple hopping
• Beach activities
• Cultural experiences
• Shopping
• Boating

Average budget: INR 6,000 to 12,000 for a 3-day trip.

Best Places to stay: 

• Mayfair Waves 
• Toshali Sands
• Coco Palms Puri

Best time to visit: July to March

Best Places to eat: 

• Chung Wah Restaurant
•  Honey Bee Bakery & Pizzeria
• Wildgrass Restaurant

India Summer Vacation: Mountain/Nature Attractions

18. Kashmir: Uncover the Best Places to Visit for the Summer

Floating on Dal Lake in a small boat, with huge mountains all around you. It’s a scene so magical that even some 5-star hotels can’t compete with the charm of the traditional houseboats and shikaras. Walking in the field of flowers in Gulmarg and wandering through the forests in Pahalgam can make you feel that you are in some kind of dreamland. Kashmir is known to be the best place to visit in summer!

Suggested Read: 17 Best Places To Visit In Kashmir: Unveil The Charms Of This Paradise

Must-see attractions:

• Gulmarg
• Pahalgam
• Dal Lake
• Gurez Valley
• Sonamarg

Best activities to do:

• Shikara ride on Dal Lake
• Trekking
• Skiing and Snowboarding
• Paragliding
• Houseboat Stay

Average budget: INR 6000- INR 10000 per week

Best Places to stay: 

• Wangnoo Houseboats
• Hotel Glacier Heights
• Comrade Inn 

Best time to visit: October to Jun

Best Places to eat: 

• Ahdoos, Srinagar 
• Dana Pani, Pahalgam
• Nathus Sweets
• Shamyana Restaurant

19. Shillong: Find the Best Places to Travel in the Summer

Shillong is a popular tourist destination with a variety of attractions. Ward’s Lake is perfect for boating and picnics. The Don Bosco Centre showcases the local culture and traditions. You can also experience the unique Khasi culture here. Shillong is a perfect getaway with its beautiful landscapes and vibrant culture. Shillong is the perfect destination for those who are looking for summer places to travel.

Must-see attractions:

• Ward’s Lake
• Shillong Peak
• Shillong View Point
• Elephant Falls
• Laitlum Canyons

Best activities to do:

• Hiking and trekking
• Boating
• Caving
• Waterfall
• Golfing

Average budget: INR 6,000 to 20,000 for a 3-day trip

Best Places to stay: 

• Ri Kynjai
• Pinewood Hotel
• Cafe Shillong Bed & Breakfast
• The Eee Cee Hotel

Best time to visit: September to May

Best Places to eat: 

• City Hut Family Dhaba
• Deja Vu Restaurant
• ML 05 Cafe

Suggested Read: Best Of Shillong: Must Visit Places For The Authentic Meghalayan Experience

20. Panchgani: Spot the Best Places to Visit for the Summer

Apart from beautiful strawberry gardens, this place offers stunning mountains and picturesque plains that works as a therapy for travellers. 

Must-see attractions:

• Sydney Point
• Table Land
• Dhom Dam
• Rajpuri Caves
• Strawberry Fields

Best activities to do:

• Boating
• Paragliding
• Horse riding
• Sightseeing
• Nature walks

Average budget: INR 6,000 to 11,000 for a 3-day trip

Best Places to stay: 

• Ravine Hotel 
• Il Palazzo Hotel
• Miraya Hotel.

Best time to visit: September to May

Best Places to eat: 

• Hotel Namaste
• Jaffer Bhai’s Restaurant
• Den Dine Cafe

Conclusion

To conclude, India is full of great places to visit in summer for a perfect vacation! From the beautiful beaches of Goa, to magnificent mountains of Kashmir and adventurous landscapes of  Ladakh, the choices are endless! India’s diverse natural beauty, spanning from Kashmir to Kanyakumari,  are gifts of nature that you cannot resist. What are you waiting for? Back your bags and remember, you only have one life, so don’t let the summer heat ruin your mood or your vacation plans!