Known For : Pangong Lake Zanskar Valley Khardung La
During the summer months in Ladakh, the snow blankets recede, unveiling panoramic landscapes of barren mountains, azure lakes, and lush valleys, making it an ideal time for trekking, biking, and cultural explorations. As monasteries come alive with festivals, the region becomes a melting pot of traditions, and the melting snow feeds the glistening rivers perfect for rafting.
Average budget: INR 20,000 to 40,000 for a week (varies based on accommodation and activities).
How to reach: Direct flights to Leh from major Indian cities, road trip from Manali or Srinagar (open during summer).
Best Time: April - Mid-July
Known For : Solang Valley Hadimba Devi Temple Manali Mall Road
In summer, Manali turns into a verdant paradise with blooming apple orchards, gushing rivers, and an escape from the scorching plains, offering myriad activities from trekking to paragliding. The pleasantly cool climate combined with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks makes it a favorite spot for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
Average budget: INR 15,000 to 35,000 for a week (depending on accommodation and activities).
How to reach: Flights to Kullu's Bhuntar Airport, followed by a short drive; regular bus services from Delhi, Chandigarh; drive via NH-21.
Best Time: October to June
Known For : Dal Lake Pampore (Saffron Town) Doodhpathri
Summer is a perfect time to visit Kashmir due to its mild weather, providing a refreshing escape from the intense heat of other regions. The stunning landscapes, including blooming gardens and lush valleys, are best enjoyed during this season. Visitors can explore popular spots like Dal Lake, Gulmarg, and the Tulip Festival in Srinagar, which adds vibrant colors to the picturesque setting.
Average Budget: INR 6000- INR 10000 per week.
How to Reach: Kashmir is accessible via Srinagar International Airport, offering flights from major Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore, or by road from Jammu, followed by a picturesque drive to the valley.
Best Time: September - November; March - May
Known For : Reckong Peo Nako Kalpa
In summer, Kinnaur unveils its vibrant colors with orchards full of apples, peaches, and apricots, against the backdrop of majestic snow-clad mountains and azure skies. The mild temperatures make it ideal for exploration, from wandering through charming villages to embracing the region's rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
Average budget: INR 12,000 to 28,000 for a week (depending on accommodation and activities).
How to reach: Nearest airport is Shimla, then a scenic drive to Kinnaur; regular bus services from Shimla and Chandigarh; self-drive or taxis via NH-5.
Best Time: April to June; September, October
Known For : Panchpula Khajjiar Dainkund Peak
Dalhousie, with its colonial charm and serene landscapes, becomes a verdant retreat during summers, offering travelers respite from the scorching heat. The season is perfect for strolling along the Victorian-era mansions, trekking through pine-clad valleys, and experiencing vibrant local festivals.
Average budget: INR 10,000 to 25,000 for a week (depending on accommodation and activities).
How to reach: The nearest airport is Pathankot (80 km away) followed by a scenic drive; regular bus services from Delhi, Dharamshala, and Amritsar; train services up to Pathankot followed by taxis or buses to Dalhousie.
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Mussoorie Mall Road Kempty Falls Camel's Back Road
Mussoorie, fondly known as the 'Queen of the Hills', offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges and becomes a picturesque escape with pleasant temperatures during the hot months. The vibrant flora, bustling Mall Road, and cascading waterfalls create a lively ambiance for both adventure enthusiasts and leisure seekers.
Average budget: INR 8,000 to 20,000 for a week (depending on accommodation and activities).
How to reach: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant in Dehradun (54 km away); Dehradun railway station is the closest rail link; buses and taxis from major cities like Delhi, Dehradun, and Haridwar are frequently available.
Best Time: September to June
Known For : Aru Valley Chandanwari Baisaran
Pahalgam, often termed as the 'Valley of Shepherds', transforms into a verdant paradise during summers, with its meadows bursting into a riot of colors and the Lidder River complementing the serene atmosphere. The refreshing climate makes it a sought-after destination for those looking to revel amidst natural beauty and engage in soft adventure activities.
Average budget: INR 7,000 to 18,000 for a week (depending on accommodation and activities).
How to reach: The nearest airport is Srinagar Airport, about 95 km away; Jammu is the nearest major railway station; taxis and buses are available from Srinagar to Pahalgam.
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Jakhu Temple Mall Road, Shimla Rashtrapati Niwas (Viceregal Lodge)
Shimla, the erstwhile summer capital of British India, offers a refreshing escape with its cool temperatures, lush green landscapes, and colonial architecture. The town bustles with tourists, especially on the Ridge and Mall Road, as they soak in panoramic views and indulge in local experiences.
Average budget: INR 6,000 to 15,000 for a week (depending on accommodation and activities).
How to reach: The nearest airport is Jubbarhatti, 23 km from Shimla; the town has its own railway station connected by the narrow-gauge Kalka-Shimla Railway; roadways connect Shimla to major cities like Delhi and Chandigarh.
Best Time: October to June
Known For : Chembra Peak Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary Stay in a Treehouse
Wayanad, set amidst the Western Ghats, presents a refreshing retreat with its misty mornings, vast spice plantations, and vibrant wildlife. The region bursts into a lush green tapestry in summers, making treks and sightseeing an absolute delight.
Average budget: INR 15,000 to 40,000 for a week (depending on accommodation and activities).
How to reach: The nearest airport is Kozhikode (Calicut) International Airport, about 65 km away; well-connected by roads from major cities in Kerala and Karnataka.
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Rafting in Rishikesh Lakshman Jhula Triveni Ghat
Rishikesh, flanked by the Ganges and the majestic Himalayas, becomes a hub for spiritual seekers and adventure enthusiasts alike during summers. The refreshing river breeze coupled with the mellifluous chants from temples creates a harmonious blend of tranquility and thrill.
Average budget: INR 10,000 to 30,000 for a week (varying with accommodation and activities).
How to reach: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, approximately 35 km away; Rishikesh railway station connects to major Indian cities, and buses ply regularly from New Delhi and other cities.
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Naini Lake Snow View Point Mall Road Nainital
Nestled around the emerald Naini Lake, Nainital offers a refreshing summer retreat with its cool climate, panoramic views, and vibrant flora. Boating, walking along scenic paths, or merely reveling in its colonial charm, the town presents a picturesque summer escape.
Average budget: INR 10,000 to 35,000 for a week (depending on accommodation and activities).
How to reach: The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, around 70 km away; the closest railway station is Kathgodam, 34 km from Nainital, and there are regular bus and taxi services connecting Nainital to major cities.
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Gurudongmar Lake Yumthang Valley Lachen
Nestled in the lap of the Eastern Himalayas, Sikkim is a captivating state that offers a mesmerizing blend of breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and spiritual tranquility highlighted by the dramatic contouring of the scenery from thick woodlands to colourful meadows and panoramic views of the snowcapped mountains.
Average budget: INR 7,000 to 30,000 for a week (depending on accommodation and activities).
How to reach: The nearest airport is Bagdogra in West Bengal, and the closest railway station is New Jalpaiguri. From there, one can hire taxis or use shared vehicles to reach Sikkim. It's advised to arrange transportation through a registered travel agency due to permit requirements.
Best Time: April to June, October to December
Known For : Pothamedu View Point Eravikulam National Park Rose Garden Munnar
Munnar, nestled in the Western Ghats, is a picturesque hill station known for its lush green tea plantations, misty valleys, and cool climate. During summers, the pleasant weather combined with blooming flora and exotic wildlife provides an ideal escape from the heat.
Average budget: INR 6,000 to 25,000 for a week (depending on accommodation and activities).
How to reach: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, and the nearest railway station is Aluva. From there, taxis and buses are available to Munnar which is approximately 110 km away.
Best Time: September to May
Known For : Bee falls Jata Shankar caves Pandava Caves
Pachmarhi, often dubbed the "Queen of Satpura," is Madhya Pradesh's only hill station, enveloped by cascading waterfalls, ancient caves, and dense sal forests. Summers here are milder than the plains, making it an attractive destination with its fresh mountain breeze and sunlit plateaus.
Average budget: INR 5,000 to 20,000 for a week (depending on accommodation and activities).
How to reach: The nearest railway station is Pipariya, about 50 km away. From there, taxis and buses ply to Pachmarhi. The nearest major airport is in Bhopal, which is around 200 km away.
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Nilgiri Mountain Railway Ooty Lake Emerald Lake, Ooty
Ooty, or Udhagamandalam, is the "Queen of Hill Stations" nestled in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu. Its verdant tea gardens, winding roads, mist-covered mountains, and colonial architecture make it a summer haven for tourists escaping the heat of the plains.
Average budget: INR 6,000 to 25,000 for a week (depending on accommodation and activities).
How to reach: The nearest railway station is in Mettupalayam, 40 km from Ooty. From there, you can board the heritage toy train or hire a cab. The closest airport is Coimbatore International Airport, about 88 km away.
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Vaishno Devi Mandir Ardhkuwari
Vaishno Devi, located in the Trikuta Mountains of Jammu and Kashmir, is a sacred pilgrimage site dedicated to the Hindu goddess Vaishno Devi. Drawing millions of devotees every year, this spiritual journey entails an uphill trek through scenic landscapes to reach the holy shrine where the goddess resides in a cave.
Average budget: INR 3,000 to 15,000 for a 3-day trip (depending on accommodation and activities).
How to reach: The nearest railway station is in Katra. From Katra, one can start the trek or avail helicopter services. The closest airport is Jammu Airport, approximately 50 km from Katra. Buses and taxis frequently ply between Jammu and Katra.
Best Time: October to June
Known For : Dal Lake Shankaracharya Temple Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden
Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, is renowned for its picturesque Dal Lake, houseboats, and vibrant Mughal gardens. Surrounded by the majestic Himalayan peaks, it's a haven of tranquility with its shimmering lakes and colorful houseboats set against the backdrop of verdant meadows.
Average budget: INR 5,000 to 20,000 for a 3-day trip (depending on accommodation and activities).
How to reach: Srinagar has its own airport with regular flights connecting it to major cities. By road, it's connected via National Highway 1. The nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi, from where one can take buses or taxis to Srinagar.
Best Time: April to October
Known For : Gulmarg Gondola Alpather Lake Apharwat Peak
Gulmarg, nestled in the Pir Panjal mountains of Jammu and Kashmir, transforms into a carpet of vibrant flowers in summers and offers a serene escape with panoramic vistas. Renowned as a skier's paradise in winter, the town offers cool relief and adventure opportunities during the warmer months.
Average budget: INR 7,000 to 25,000 for a 3-day trip (depending on accommodation and activities).
How to reach: The nearest airport is Srinagar International Airport, approximately 56 km away. From there, taxis are available to Gulmarg. The nearest railway station is in Jammu, from where you can hire a cab or take a bus.
Best Time: October to June
Known For : Umiam Lake Elephant Falls Shillong Peak
Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, fondly referred to as the "Scotland of the East," boasts of a gentle climate in summers and is adorned with cascading waterfalls, rolling hills, and beautiful lakes. Its unique culture, colonial-era architecture, and natural beauty make it a sought-after summer retreat.
Average budget: INR 6,000 to 20,000 for a 3-day trip (depending on accommodation and activities).
How to reach: The nearest airport is Shillong Airport. However, the Guwahati airport, around 125 km away, is better connected. From Guwahati, one can hire a cab or take a bus to Shillong.
Best Time: September to May
Known For : Tiger Hill Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Batasia Loop
Nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas, Darjeeling is renowned for its sprawling tea gardens, the enchanting toy train, and panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga peak. The summer season, with its cool breeze and clear skies, provides an ideal ambiance for tourists to explore its British-era architecture, monasteries, and vibrant local culture.
Average budget: INR 7,000 to 25,000 for a 3-day trip (depending on accommodation and activities).
How to reach: The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport, roughly 95 km away. From there, you can hire a taxi or use shared transportation. Alternatively, New Jalpaiguri (NJP) is the nearest major railway station connecting to major cities.
Best Time: February to March, September to December
Known For : Chaubatia Orchards Majhkhali Golf Course
Ranikhet, often referred to as the "Queen's Meadow", offers a refreshing blend of pine-covered hills, lush green meadows, and splendid views of the snow-capped Himalayas. Summers in Ranikhet bring a pleasant respite from the sweltering heat of the plains, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and nature walks.
Average budget: INR 5,000 to 15,000 for a 3-day trip (depending on accommodation and activities).
How to reach: The nearest railway station is Kathgodam, around 75 km away. From Kathgodam, taxis or buses are available to reach Ranikhet.
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Nathatop Skiing in Patnitop Naag Mandir
Patnitop, nestled in the Shivalik belt of the Himalayas in Jammu, is an enchanting hill resort known for its panoramic vistas and idyllic beauty. The pleasant climate during summer months makes it a much-sought-after escape, complemented by scenic treks, lush green landscapes, and activities like paragliding.
Average budget: INR 4,000 to 10,000 for a 3-day trip (depending on accommodation and activities).
How to reach: The nearest airport is in Jammu, 112 km away. From Jammu, taxis or buses are available to reach Patnitop. The Udhampur railway station, 45 km away, is the closest train link.
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Triund Bhagsu Falls Bhagsunag Temple
Mcleodganj, often dubbed as 'Little Lhasa', is a serene hill town in Himachal Pradesh, renowned for its Tibetan culture, monasteries, and breathtaking vistas of the Dhauladhar ranges. It's a hotspot for trekkers, spiritual seekers, and those looking for a peaceful retreat amid the mountains.
Average budget: INR 5,000 to 11,000 for a 3-day trip (depending on accommodation and activities).
How to reach: The nearest airport is Gaggal Airport, 20 km away. The closest major railway station is in Pathankot, 89 km away. Buses and taxis are easily available from these points to Mcleodganj.
Best Time: October to June
Known For : Jungle Safari in Corbett National Park Corbett Waterfall River Rafting in Corbett National Park
Corbett National Park, located in Uttarakhand, is India's first national park and a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. With its lush landscapes and a plethora of wildlife including the Royal Bengal Tiger, it's a perfect destination for those who seek the thrill of observing animals in their natural habitat.
Average budget: INR 7,000 to 15,000 for a 3-day trip (depending on accommodation and activities).
How to reach: The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport (110 km away). The closest railway station is Ramnagar Railway Station. Buses and taxis are easily available from these points to Corbett National Park.
Best Time: Mid October to Mid June
Known For : Tawang Monastery Sela Pass Madhuri Lake
Tawang, nestled in Arunachal Pradesh, boasts mesmerizing landscapes and is home to the iconic Tawang Monastery, one of the largest monasteries in India. The region, rich in Tibetan culture, becomes especially picturesque with snowfall in the winter months.
Average budget: INR 6,000 to 12,000 for a 3-day trip.
How to reach: The nearest airport is Tezpur Airport. From there, taxis can be hired to reach Tawang, but the journey is long and best covered over two days.
Best Time: March - June; September - October
Kaziranga, in Assam, is famed for housing two-thirds of the world's great one-horned rhinoceroses. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a biodiverse hotspot, drawing nature enthusiasts globally.
Average budget: INR 7,000 to 14,000 for a 3-day trip.
How to reach: The nearest airport is Jorhat Airport. From there, Kaziranga is about 2 hours away by car.
Best Time: October to June
Known For : Dzukou Valley and Japfu Peak Kohima Museum Touphema Village
Kohima is the hilly capital of Nagaland, which is one of the seven sister states of India. ‘Kohima’ is the anglicized name given by the British, the original name being 'Kewhira' derived from the Kewhi flowers found in the region. Famous for its ethereal environment and untouched beauty, it is a land of folklore passed down through the ages.
Average budget: INR 5,000 to 10,000 for a 3-day trip.
How to reach: Dimapur is the nearest airport and railway station. Buses and taxis are available from Dimapur to Kohima.
Best Time: October to June
Known For : Double Decker Living Root Bridge Nohkalikai Waterfalls Mawsmai Cave
Cherrapunjee, in Meghalaya, is often dubbed the wettest place on Earth. Its surreal landscapes, root bridges, and cascading waterfalls make it a monsoon paradise.
Average budget: INR 6,000 to 11,000 for a 3-day trip.
How to reach: The nearest airport is in Shillong. From there, taxis can be hired to reach Cherrapunjee in about 2 hours.
Best Time: October to February
Known For : Tarin Fish Farm Kile Pakho Ziro Music Festival
Ziro, located in Arunachal Pradesh, is renowned for its breathtakingly beautiful valleys and the unique Apatani tribe. An UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ziro also hosts the famous Ziro Music Festival, attracting music enthusiasts globally.
Average budget: INR 5,000 to 10,000 for a 3-day trip.
How to reach: The nearest airport is Tezpur Airport in Assam. From there, taxis can be hired to reach Ziro.
Best Time: September - November ; March - May
Known For : Kamalabari Satra Dakhinpat Satra Garmur
Majuli, in Assam, holds the distinction of being the world's largest river island. Rich in culture, it's a stronghold of Neo-Vaishnavism and boasts numerous ancient Satras (monasteries).
Average budget: INR 4,000 to 8,000 for a 3-day trip.
How to reach: The nearest airport is Jorhat Airport. From Jorhat, one can take a ferry to reach Majuli.
Best Time: October - April
Known For : Raghurajpur Artist Village Sri Jagannath Puri Temple Puri Beach Markandeswara Temple
Puri, situated in Odisha, is primarily known for the revered Jagannath Temple and its sun-kissed beaches. As one of India's Char Dhams, it's a significant pilgrimage spot for Hindus.
Average budget: INR 6,000 to 12,000 for a 3-day trip.
How to reach: The nearest airport is Bhubaneswar Airport. From there, Puri is about a 2-hour drive away. Puri also has its railway station.
Best Time: July to March
Known For : Nathula Pass MG Road, Gangtok Tsomgo Lake
Extremely alluring, pleasantly boisterous and wreathed in clouds - Gangtok, the capital city of the Sikkim can also give you a spectacular view of Mt. Kanchenjunga, at a distant skyline. The pristine hill station nestled in mountains and clouds is also a base for a whole lot of trekkers to the Himalayan mountain ranges.
Average budget: INR 7,000 to 15,000 for a 3-day trip.
How to reach: Nearest airport is Bagdogra. Regular taxis and buses ply from the airport to Gangtok.
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Morgan House Durpin Dara hill Cactus Nursery
Kalimpong is a virgin hill station in West Bengal renowned for its panoramic valley views, Buddhists monasteries and churches and Tibetan handicrafts etc. Perched on the eastern Himalayas, Kalimpong is known for its colonial-era architecture, monasteries, and vibrant markets.
Average budget: INR 5,000 to 10,000 for a 3-day trip.
How to reach: Nearest airport is Bagdogra. Taxis are available from the airport to reach Kalimpong.
Best Time: March to June, September to December
Known For : Mahanada Wildlife Sanctuary Sumsing and Suntalekhola Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary
Starting from river Teesta in the East to river Sankoshi in the west, Dooars is a local name given to the floodplains of North-East India around Bhutan. The name 'Dooars' has emerged from 'door' as Dooars is the gateway to Bhutan. Nestled at the foothills of the eastern Himalayas, Dooars is renowned for its rich biodiversity and dense forests.
Average budget: INR 5,000 to 9,000 for a 3-day trip.
How to reach: Nearest airport is Bagdogra. From there, taxis and buses are available to reach Dooars.
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Abbey Falls Mandalpatti Raja's Seat
Located amidst imposing mountains in Karnataka with a perpetually misty landscape, Coorg is the place to be for all nature lovers. This popular coffee producing hill station is not only popular for its beautiful green hills and the streams cutting right through them. It also stands as a popular destination because of its culture and people.
Average budget: INR 7,000 to 14,000 for a 3-day trip.
How to reach: Nearest airport is Mangalore. Regular taxis and buses connect Mangalore to Coorg.
Best Time: October to March
Known For : Emerald Lake, Yercaud Pagoda Point Botanical Garden, Yercaud
Nestled in the Shivaroy Hills of Tamil Nadu, Yercaud is a hill station in the Eastern Ghats steeped in abundant greenery. Commonly called ‘Ooty of the Poor’, this region has a history dating back to the time of the British. Located at an altitude of 4970 feet, Yercaud is known for its vast expanses of coffee plantations and great weather.
Average budget: INR 5,000 to 10,000 for a 3-day trip.
How to reach: Nearest airport is Salem. Yercaud is well connected by road to major cities.
Best Time: October to June
Known For : Sim's Park Dolphin's Nose Ketti Valley
One of the three beautiful Nilgiri hill stations, Coonoor is the second largest hill station of the Western Ghats. It is situated at an altitude of 1930 meters and just 19 km from Ooty. With slopes of tea plantations, dotted with many attractions and blessed with chilly weather throughout the year, this place is a perfect summer retreat.
Average budget: INR 6,000 to 12,000 for a 3-day trip.
How to reach: Nearest airport is Coimbatore. Coonoor is well connected by road and rail.
Best Time: October to March
Located in the Mysore district of Karnataka, Nagarhole National Park boasts of rich wildlife including both flora and fauna. Located near Bandipur National Park, it is packed with the bounty of raw nature in its best form. Bestowed with best of wildlife, forest cover and varied topography, this place offers gushing streams, gentle slopes and shallow valleys.
Average budget: INR 7,000 to 15,000 for a 3-day trip.
How to reach: Nearest airport is Mysore. Nagarhole can be reached by road from major cities.
Best Time: October to May
Known For : Jungle Safari, Kabini Boating in Kabini
Located around 245 km from Bangalore, Kabini is primarily known for its handful of luxury resorts around the Kabini River and Nagarhole National Park in the vicinity. Please note that there are not many budget-friendly accommodations near Kabini River. It is a popular weekend getaway from Bangalore, Mysore and Mangalore.
Average budget: INR 8,000 to 18,000 for a 3-day trip.
How to reach: Nearest airport is Mysore. Kabini is well connected by road.
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Kaas Plateau Table Land Mahabaleshwar
Deriving its name from the five hills surrounding it, Panchgani is a popular hill station near Mahabaleshwar in Maharashtra, famous for its various sunset and sunrise points and scenic valley view. A picturesque hill station in Maharashtra, Panchgani is renowned for its pleasant climate, strawberry farms, and colonial architecture.
Average budget: INR 6,000 to 11,000 for a 3-day trip.
How to reach: Nearest airport is Pune. Panchgani is accessible by road from major cities.
Best Time: September to May
Known For : Elephant's Head Point Chinaman's Falls Dhobi Waterfall
Mahabaleshwar is a hill station located in the Western Ghats, in Satara district of Maharashtra. Apart from its strawberries, Mahabaleshwar is also well known for its numerous rivers, magnificent cascades and majestic peaks. It is among the most sought after weekend getaways from Pune & Mumbai, located about 120km south-west of Pune and 285km from Mumbai.
Average budget: INR 6,000 to 12,000 for a 3-day trip.
How to reach: Nearest airport is Pune. Well connected by road.
Best Time: October to June
Known For : Raigad Fort Diveagar Beach Jagadishwar Temple
Raigad, is a historically rich district is situated in the Konkan region of Maharashtra. Located at 2,851mts, it is surrounded by Mumbai Harbour, Thane, Pune, Ratnagiri and the Arabian Sea. Historically significant for its fort, Raigad was the capital of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's Maratha Empire.
Average budget: INR 3,000 to 7,000 for a 3-day trip.
How to reach: Nearest airports are Mumbai and Pune. Accessible by road and rail.
Best Time: November to March
Known For : Harihareshwar Beach Kalbhairav Temple Ganesh Gully
Surrounded by four hills and with river Savitri flowing through the town, Harihareshwar is famous for its temple of Lord Harihareshwar and is a popular weekend beach destination especially for people in Mumbai and Pune. It's a coastal town renowned for its temples and serene beaches.
Average budget: INR 3,500 to 8,000 for a 3-day trip.
How to reach: Nearest airport is Mumbai. Accessible by road.
Best Time: October to March
Known For : Nakki Lake Guru Shikhar Toad Rock
The only hill station of Rajasthan, its cool atmosphere and lush green surroundings make it a major tourist spot within the state. The most important attraction, however, are undoubtedly the Dilwara temples, which is one of the most stunning piece of architecture in the country. If you are a history or architecture buff, this is one of the places you should absolutely not miss out in India.
Average budget: INR 6,000 to 13,000 for a 3-day trip.
How to reach: Nearest airport is Udaipur. Accessible by road and rail.
Best Time: October to March
Known For : Periyar National Park Periyar Tiger Trail Bamboo Rafting in Thekkady
Home to the country's largest Tiger Reserve- Periyar, Thekkady is an important tourist destination in Kerala. Periyar National Park, a major attraction, is where you can enjoy bamboo rafting in the catchment area of Mullaiperiyar Dam. Travelers can also experience night treks in the wilderness of Periyar.
Average budget: INR 7,000 to 14,000 for a 3-day trip.
How to reach: Nearest airport is Kochi. Accessible by road.
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Green Valley View (Suicide Point) Kodaikanal Lake Bear Shola Falls
Located in the state of Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal is one of the most famous honeymoon destinations in India. When you think of Kodaikanal, you think of a wonderful climate, cliffs covered in mist, cloud-capped mountains and beautiful lakes and valleys, and once you visit this hill station, you will find that every bit of what you have imagined it to be is true.
Average budget: INR 5,500 to 12,000 for a 3-day trip.
How to reach: Nearest airport is Madurai. Accessible by road.
Best Time: September to May
Known For : Sitla Chauli ki Jaali Mukteshwar Dham Temple
Mukteshwar is a small hill town located around 50 km from Nainital in Uttarakhand. Known for adventure sports, fruit orchards, ancient temple.and a dazzling view of Himalayan ranges, Mukteshwar is named after the 350-year-old Shiva Temple housed here called Mukteshwar Dham.
Average budget: INR 4,500 to 10,000 for a 3-day trip.
How to reach: Nearest airport is Pantnagar. Accessible by road.
Best Time: October to June
Known For : Skiing in Auli Trishul Peak Auli Ropeway
Dotted with the apple orchards, old oaks and pine trees there is no dearth of natural beauty in Auli. Apart from skiing you can also go for numerous treks in the hills of Garhwal Himalayas and enjoy the spellbinding views of the snow-draped mountains. Auli is a popular hill resort in the Himalayan range dating back to 8th Century AD.
Average budget: INR 7,000 to 15,000 for a 3-day trip.
How to reach: Nearest airport is Dehradun. Accessible by road.
Best Time: December - February
Known For : Malshej Falls Pimpalgaon Joga Dam Harishchandragad
Malshej Ghat is a mountain pass and a popular hill station, nestled in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra. With its numerous lakes, waterfalls, mountains, and verdant flora and fauna, Malshej Ghat is popular among hikers, trekkers and nature lovers.
Average budget: INR 4,000 to 9,000 for a 3-day trip.
How to reach: Nearest airport is Mumbai. Accessible by road.
Best Time: July to March
Known For : Louisa point Charlotte lake Monkey Point Matheran
Nestled amidst the Sahyadri range on the Western Ghats, Matheran is a cosy little hill station that stands at an elevation of 2600 feet above sea level, and is just 100 kilometres away from Mumbai, making it the perfect weekend getaway. With its name literally translating to “overhead forest”, Matheran is the smallest hill station in all of India.
Average budget: INR 5,000 to 11,000 for a 3-day trip.
How to reach: Nearest airport is Mumbai. Accessible by rail and road.
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Devi Lake Pallivasal Falls Thoovanam Falls
Devikulam is a small hill station in Kerala, it's known for its serene landscapes, tea gardens, and waterfalls. The lake in Devikulam with a legend of its own, greenest sceneries, waterfalls and tea plantations are what offer its charm to Devikulam, a hill station in Kerala.
Average budget: INR 5,500 to 12,000 for a 3-day trip.
How to reach: Nearest airport is Kochi. Accessible by road.
Best Time: November to May
Known For : Munsiyari Chandak Kafni Glacier Trek
Pithoragarh is an idyllic valley in Uttarakhand, it's often termed as the 'Little Kashmir' for its picturesque landscapes. The small urban town bustling with tourists is a prime example of raw beauty of nature. A gateway to Himalayan Range, this town also serves as the stop over for pilgrims on their way to Kailash Mansarover.
Average budget: INR 4,000 to 8,500 for a 3-day trip.
How to reach: Nearest airport is Pantnagar. Accessible by road.
Best Time: April to June, October to December
Known For : Zero Point Jageshwar Kasar Devi
Set in the background of snow-capped Himalayan ranges of Uttarakhand, the sprawling town of Almora is a beautiful hill station. With easy accessibility from Delhi and other major cities of North India, Almora is known for its rich cultural heritage, unique handicrafts, sumptuous cuisine and magnificent wildlife. This town has two major rivers- Koshi (Kaushaki) and Suyal (Salmali).
Average budget: INR 6,000 to 13,000 for a 3-day trip.
How to reach: Nearest airport is Pantnagar. Accessible by road.
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Key Monastery Chandratal Lake Pin Valley National Park
Long winding roads and picturesque valleys presenting glimpses of cold deserts and snow-crowned mountains, with intermittent greenery and picture-perfect villages welcome you when you set foot into Spiti Valley. With the thick Himalayan snow cutting Spiti off from the rest of the country for around 6 months a year, the summer months are the only time Spiti is directly accessible via motorway.
Average budget: INR 8,000 to 18,000 for a 3-day trip.
How to reach: Nearest airport is Kullu. Accessible by road.
Best Time: Mid May to Mid Oct
Known For : Manikaran Sahib Nature Park Kasol Tosh
Commonly known as the Amsterdam of India, this quaint little village is resplendent in natural scenic beauty, and is one of the few places in the country that is yet to be ruined by urbanization and commercialization. Situated between the towns of Bhuntar and Manikaran, Kasol might seem like a plain, nondescript village from the outside, but it is one of the best places in the country to just sit back and chill in the lap of nature.
Average budget: INR 5,000 to 10,000 for a 3-day trip.
How to reach: Nearest airport is Bhuntar. Accessible by road.
Best Time: October to June
Meghalaya, famed as the "abode of clouds," captivates visitors with its diverse landscapes, including hills, valleys, lakes, caves, and waterfalls. Cherapunji, renowned for its high rainfall, adds to the state's allure, creating a serene and picturesque atmosphere that enchants all who visit.
Average budget: INR 6,000 to 20,000 for a 3-day trip (depending on accommodation and activities).
How to reach: The nearest airport is Shillong Airport. However, the Guwahati airport, around 125 km away, is better connected. From Guwahati, one can hire a cab or take a bus to Shillong.
The ‘Land of the Thunder Dragon’ – Bhutan nestles in the mountainous regions of the Eastern Himalayas and is one of the cleanest countries in the South Asian region. A remote kingdom that still clings to its Buddhist culture but embraces modernization, Bhutan is a land of beautiful valleys, snow-clad mountain views, and lush greenery.
Ideal Duration : 7-10 days for a cultural tour or trekking; 2 weeks for a more immersive experience
Airport : Paro International Airport (PBH)
Getting Around : Government-approved vehicles, limited public transport, trekking for some regions
Nepal, nestled between India and China and renowned as the home of Mt. Everest, beckons adventure enthusiasts with its Himalayan allure. Dubbed the "roof of the world," Nepal boasts diverse landscapes, from towering peaks to verdant valleys and vibrant cities, making it a destination rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Ideal Duration : 7-10 days for trekking and cultural exploration; 2 weeks for a broader experience
Airport: Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu
Getting Around : Buses, microbuses, taxis, and domestic flights for longer distances
Which is your preferred place to visit in summer in India? Let us know in the comments below!