Looking for the best places to visit in summer, ranging from the misty hill stations of Himachal to the peaceful valleys of Kashmir and green canopies of Munnar. Whether you’re seeking adventure, just want to unwind, or want a scenic getaway, the following top summer getaways in India ensure a cool break from the burning sun. Let’s find out the must-visit places this summer!
Places to escape the summer heat
1. Shimla
Shimla is famed for being one of the most visited places in summer and among the popular destinations in India.Shimla the capital of Himachal Pradesh is one of India’s most popular Hill stations known for its colonial charm, cool climate, and breathtaking landscapes. Once the summer capital of British India, Shimla still retains its old-world charm with beautiful Victorian-style buildings and scenic mountain views.Shimla is a perfect destination to go with friends, family, partner and even solo traveller.The best time to visit Shimla is March to June (pleasant summer) during this season. Shimla is pleasant and many activity spots and sightseeing places open for tourists.
Shimla trip in Summer 2025:
1. Nice Weather: In summer, Shimla temperature ranges from 15°C to 30°C.Shimla gives relief from the scorching summer sun.
2.Colonial Beauty: You can experience British-era buildings like Viceregal Lodge, Christ Church, and Gaiety theatre, proving its historical richness.
3.Scenic Toy Train ride: Ride by Kalka-Shimla Toy Train, a UNESCO World Heritage, amidst breathtaking vistas of mountains.
4.Mall road & ridge: The mall road is ideal for shopping local cuisine, and an evening walk with scenic views of the Himalayas.
5. Nature & Adventure: Go to Kufri, Chail, and Mashobra for trekking, horse riding, and nature walks.
How to reach Shimla?
You can visit Shimla by flight – The nearest airport to Shimla is Chandigarh Airport (IXC) at about 113 km from Shimla, By train: Shimla is linked with Kalka, by the UNESCO World Heritage Kalka-Shimla Railway or by road: You could drive from areas such as Delhi, Chandigarh, and Manali to Shimla, or you can drive by bus from surrounding cities and towns to Shimla.
2. Leh
Leh’s beauty is difficult to define. Considered to be among the favorite summer spots in India, Leh is where you make limitless travel experiences. From world-class and colourful monasteries like Thiksey monastery, Shanti Stupa and Hemis Monastery to Leh Palace, Leh Market, etc., there are simply too many to see in Leh. Another tourist destination in Leh is Magnetic Hill where you will be left wondering how the law of gravity is violated. If you are up for adventures, then relish the adventure of trekking in the hilly terrain of Leh, one of the popular treks being the Chadar Trek.The ideal season to visit Leh is from May to September. The weather remains pleasant and roads to Leh remain open during these months, and one can reach this far-flung Himalayan area easily. The reason one should visit Leh in the summer season is that it provides a clear sky, which is the best for undertaking outdoor activities and viewing the scenic beauty of Ladakh.
Leh trip in summer 2025:
1.Pleasant Weather: Leh temperature ranges from 15°C to 25°C in summer. Summer(May-September) is the best time to visit and explore Leh without extreme cold.
2.Scenic Road Trips: You can travel through Manali-Leh Highway or Srinagar-Leh Highway that offer breathtaking and high-altitude passes like Rohtang Pass,Zoji La and Baralacha La.
3.Mesmerizing Landscapes:Experience stunning barren mountains, clear blue skies, and pristine lakes like Pangong Lake and Tso Moriri.
4.Adventure and Trekking: This place is perfect for trekking, river rafting in the Indus and mountain biking on rugged terrain.
5.Local Festivals: Witness a grand celebration i.e. Hemis Festival (June-July)of Ladakh’s Buddhist heritage.
How to reach Leh?
You can visit Leh By Air (Fastest & Easiest Way) Airport – Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (Leh Airport) ,By Road (Scenic & Adventurous Route)You can take one of the two scenic highways to reach Leh:Via Manali (Manali-Leh Highway) or Via Srinagar (Srinagar-Leh Highway) ,or By Bike (For Adventure Enthusiasts) Popular Routes – Delhi-Manali-Leh / Delhi-Srinagar-Leh.
3. Kashmir
Kashmir also called as ‘Paradise on Earth’ is famous for its heartbreaking landscapes, lush green valleys, snow-capped mountains, and serene lakes. This place is perfect to visit in summer with cool weather.The ideal time to visit Kashmir is from March to August. During this period, the weather is peaceful and pleasant, which is perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing
Kashmir trip in Summer 2025:
1. Good Weather: In summer i.e. April to June provides weather from 15°C to 30°C that is ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
2. Breathtaking Valleys: Explore and visit areas such as Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Betaab Valley for their scintillating view and pleasant weather.
3. Shikara Ride on Dal Lake: Go to Dal Lake and take a serene boat ride in the floating gardens of Srinagar.
4. Stay in a Houseboat: Relish the old-world charm of classic houseboats on Dal Lake or Nigeen Lake.
5. Adventure & Sports: Gulmarg has numerous adventurous sports such as trekking, river rafting and gondola.
How to reach Kashmir?
- By air: Take a flight to Srinagar International airport that is well connected to Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore.
- By Train: Nearest railway station Jammu Tawi (270 km from Srinagar)
- By Road : Scenic road trips via Jammu-Srinagar Highway.
4. Mahabaleshwar
Mahabaleshwar is a scenic hill station in the state of Maharashtra, the strawberry center of India. It is known for its healthy climate, verdant valleys, breathtaking views and fresh strawberries. It is ideal for summer for nature enthusiasts, adventure lovers and for those searching for a relaxing retreat.The ideal period to visit Mahabaleshwar between the months of March and June. The weather at this time is in perfect condition, ideal to explore and undertake outdoor activities. Summer vacation places
Mahabaleshwar trip in summer 2025:
- Cool & Refreshing Weather: The climate of Mahabaleshwar is between 15°C to 30°C that makes it a perfect getaway from summer heat.
- Scenic Viewpoints: Do go to viewpoints such as Arthur’s Seat, Wilson Point, and Elephant’s Head Point for a panoramic view of the Sahyadri hills and valleys.
- Strawberry farms: As Mahabaleshwar is called the strawberry capital of India, so you can enjoy fresh strawberries, mulberries and raspberries at local farms. Don’t miss strawberry cream, a famous delicacy here!
- Serene Lakes & Waterfalls: Visit and enjoy a boat ride at Venna Lake, and visit Lingmala Waterfall for a refreshing experience.
- Historic Temple: Visit and Explore the Mahabaleshwar temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and the Panchganga Temple, where five rivers meet.
How to reach Mahabaleshwar?
1.By Road – Well-connected by road from:
- Pune (120 km, ~3-4 hours)
- Mumbai (260 km, ~5-6 hours)
2.By Train – Nearest railway station: Satara (60 km away)
3.By Air – Nearest airport: Pune International Airport (120 km away)
5. Lonavala
Lonavala is the most visited hill-stations in Maharashtra especially by most Mumbaikars and Punekars. It is famous for its lush green hills, waterfalls, caves and misty weather. It is a perfect weekend getaway especially in summer and monsoon, offering a cool climate and breathtaking landscapes.
Lonavala trip in summer 2025:
- Pleasant Climate: The temperature of Lonavala ranges from 18°C to 32°C. Lonavala provides a refreshing break from the summer heat.
- Trekking and Adventure: Visit and explore Rajmachi Fort, Lohagad fort, and Duke’s Nose that are ideal for trekking and camping.
- Scenic Points: Take stunning views from Tiger’s Leap, Lion’s Point, and Rajmachi Point.
- Ancient Caves: Travel and discover the Karla & Bhaja Caves, the ancient Buddhist rock-cut caves which have beautiful carvings.
How to reach Lonavala?
- By Road – Well-connected by road from:
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- Mumbai (83 km, ~2 hours)
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- Pune (65 km, ~1.5 hours)
- By Train – Lonavala Railway Station is on the Mumbai-Pune railway route.
- By Air – Nearest airport: Pune International Airport (70 km away)
6. Darjeeling
Darjeeling is a charming hill station located in West Bengal. This place is famous for its cool weather, tea gardens, toy train rides, and breathtaking views of the Himalayas. This is a perfect summer retreat with the blend of colonial charm, adventure and natural beauty.
Darjeeling trip in summer 2025:
- Comfortable Weather : From 10°C to 25°C, Darjeeling provides a breezy retreat from the heat of summer.
- Breathtaking Kanchenjunga Scenery :Behold the magnificent sunrise over the world’s third-highest mountain from Tiger Hill.
- Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train): A World Heritage Site as declared by UNESCO, the toy train journey presents stunning vistas of the hills and tea gardens.
- Lush Tea Gardens: Do visit and do explore the esteemed tea estates, Happy Valley tea estate being one of them to have splendid Darjeeling tea fostered around.
- Trekking & Adventure: An unequaled experience to trek and explore Sandakhphu, Singalila Ridge, and Rock Garden.
- Ropeway Ride: Enjoy a cable car ride that gives one of the most exquisite views of tea gardens and the valley beneath.
- Chowrasta Mall Road: Stroll through local markets, shop for woollens, handicrafts, and Tibetan souvenirs.
- Delicious Local Food : Enjoy some Momos, Thukpa, Churpi, and Darjeeling tea in places such as Glenary’s and Keventers.
How to reach Darjeeling ?
You can reach Darjeeling by Air -the Nearest Airport is Bagdogra Airport (70 km away) by Train –the Nearest Railway Station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP) (75 km away), by Road – Well-connected to Siliguri, Kolkata, and Gangtok. Destinations to visit in summer
