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Destinations Bucket List Material: Top 20 Summer Destinations In India
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Bucket List Material: Top 20 Summer Destinations In India

Be it a solo trip, an intimate getaway, or a family vacation, choose from these 20 summer destinations in India for a memorable holiday.

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By: Rashima Nagpal & Shrimayee Thakur Published: Mar 25, 2021 07:00 AM IST

Bucket List Material: Top 20 Summer Destinations In India

The hazy, lazy days of summer are here. That means watching misty clouds descend from a Himalayan cottage, diving into the cerulean waters of the Indian Ocean, camping in the northeastern rainforests, and more. Be it a solo trip, an intimate getaway with your partner, a family vacation, or a fun break with your best buds, these 20 destinations will give you plenty of choices for every mood. By Rashima Nagpal & Shrimayee Thakur

Summer Destinations In India

Family Vacations

KODAIKANAL, Tamil Nadu

Perched at an altitude of 2,133 metres, Kodaikanal is known as the ‘Princess of Hill Stations’. It is one of the most popular summer destinations in South India and a favourite of families. Visit the Berijam Lake (requires a permit from the forest department) for its calm blue waters and forested shores. For activities like boating and fishing, head to Kodaikanal Lake, a star-shaped waterbody constructed in 1863. The Pine Forest and Pillar Rocks—a set of three 122-metre-high rocks looming over the surroundings—make for great photo ops.

Summer Destinations In India

GETTING THERE

Located around 134 km away, Madurai Airport is the closest airport to Kodaikanal. Daily flights from Chennai, Bangalore, Trichy, and Mumbai arrive here.

STAY

The Carlton offers comfortable rooms with a breathtaking view of the Kodaikanal Lake (starts from INR 10,250/USD141).

KHAJJIAR, Himachal Pradesh

Known as ‘Mini Switzerland’, Khajjiar beckons with grassy meadows spread out as far as the eye can see, thick forests of deodar and pine, and clear blue skies. Its location in the foothills of the Dhauladhar range in the Western Himalayas offers opportunities for activities such as paragliding, horse riding, zorbing, and trekking. The tranquil Khajjiar Lake, surrounded by cedar trees, is perfect for a family outing. Don’t forget to visit the 12th-century Khajji Nag Temple, which is a fascinating blend of Hindu and Mughal architecture, and as its name suggests, dedicated to snakes.

Summer Destinations In India

GETTING THERE

Fly from Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi to Kangra Airport in Gaggal. From there, Khajjiar is a four-hour drive.

STAY

Located in nearby Dalhousie, JK Clarks Exotica offers luxurious rooms with balconies looking out to the snowy mountains of the Saach Pass (starts from INR 6,249/USD86).

SWARAJ DWEEP, Andaman & Nicobar Islands

Pristine white beaches, swaying palm trees, and sparkling blue water—the Andamans are a dream come true for beach bums. Swaraj Dweep (previously called Havelock Island) is popular for its gorgeous beaches—Radhanagar Beach is counted among the best beaches in Asia, and Elephant Beach is a favoured spot for adventure sports. You can simply take in the view while relaxing on the shores, or explore the stunning coral reefs and aquatic life of the archipelago by scuba diving or snorkelling.

Summer Destinations In India

GETTING THERE

The closest international airport is in the capital city of Port Blair. From there, both government ferries and helicopters ply to Swaraj Dweep. The fastest way to reach is to take a private catamaran.

STAY

Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Andamans offers 54 villas on stilts under coconut and palm trees. The resort also offers forest treks and a variety of activities for kids (starts from INR 28,450/USD392).

MAHABALESHWAR, Maharashtra

The dense forests, meandering rivers, and waterfalls of Mahabaleshwar offer refuge from the heat. That’s why it was once a summer getaway for the British and remains a popular weekend destination for locals of Mumbai and Pune. Mahabaleshwar’s rugged terrain and stunning vistas appeal to visitors of all ages, making it a favoured family holiday spot. Visit Mapro Garden to sample ice cream made from the region’s famous strawberries, explore the 17th-century Pratapgad Fort and the 16th-century Mahabaleshwar Temple, or spend a day at Velocity Entertainmentz, a 10-acre amusement park. Elphinstone Point offers a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding area, and you can catch the sunset from a boat on the Venna Lake.

Summer Destinations In India

GETTING THERE

Fly to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai. Mahabaleshwar is a six-hour drive from there.

STAY

Located close to the popular attractions, Le Méridien Mahabaleshwar Resort & Spa is the perfect base to explore the hill station (starts from INR 16,200/ USD222).

PACHMARHI, Madhya Pradesh

Also known as ‘Satpura ki Rani’ (Queen of Satpura), Pachmarhi is located in the Hoshangabad district of Madhya Pradesh. It is the only hill station and the highest point in the state, and is known for its majestic waterfalls: Rajat Prapat, Bee, Apsara, Duchess. The hill station gets its name from the five (pach) ancient caves (marhi) in the region that are said to have housed the Pandavas of Mahabharata during their exile. The Pachmarhi Wildlife Sanctuary is listed as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and it adjoins the Satpura National Park (satpura-national-park.com), a prime location to spot Royal Bengal tigers, leopards, and birds. The hill station also houses remnants of the British era: Christ Church, an ode to 19th-century European architecture, is built entirely out of sandstone. Trek up to Dhoopgarh, the highest point in the Satpura range, to catch a beautiful sunrise.

Summer Destinations In India

GETTING THERE

The closest airport is the Raja Bhoj International Airport in Bhopal, 208 km away, and it is connected to major Indian cities. From Bhopal, Pachmarhi is around five hours by road.

STAY

The Summer House offers a choice of 29 well-appointed rooms (starts from INR 5,000/USD69).

Solo Adventures

HAMPI, Karnataka

Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site dotted with the remnants of structures that date back to the 14th-century Vijayanagara Empire. Admire the ruins of opulent palaces, temples, and massive fortifications, where the architecture is a combination of several South Indian styles, such as Deccani, Chalukya, Hoysala, and Dravida. Most of the prominent ruins are located in two areas—the Royal Centre has palaces, baths, pavillions, stables, and temples for ceremonial use, while the Sacred Centre is set along the banks of the Tungabhadra River and encompasses the Virupaksha Temple and Hampi Bazaar area. A solo trip to this awe-inspiring region is incomplete without trying your hands at bouldering; Hanumanahalli is one of the popular climbing spots.

Summer Destinations In India

GETTING THERE

Fly to Kempegowda International airport in Bengaluru. From there, take a flight to Bellary Airport, 60 km away from Hampi.

STAY

Soak in royal luxury at Evolve Back Kamalapura Palace, built to emulate Vijayanagari grandeur (starts from INR 25,000/USD343).

VARKALA, Kerala

A laid-back beach town, Varkala is perched along the edges of 15-metrehigh red laterite cliffs. It is the only place in Kerala where the sea meets cliffs. The relaxed vibe of the town is ideal for soul-searching. Sunbathe by Varkala Beach, also known as Papanasam Beach. It is known for its mineral springs, which are believed to have medicinal properties. A dip in the springs is believed to cure the body of ailments and the soul of sins. Head to the 2,000-year-old Janardhana Swamy Temple located on the cliffs overlooking the sea, or the nearby Sivagiri Mutt, which was founded by philosopher and social reformer Narayana Guru.

Summer Destinations In India

GETTING THERE

Trivandrum International Airport in Thiruvananthapuram, 45 km away from Varkala, operates many international flights and offers great connectivity to major Indian cities.

STAY

Gateway Varkala-IHCL SeleQtions sits on the cliffs and offers a fantastic view of the Arabian Sea (starts from INR 3,500/USD48).

LACHEN, Sikkim

Lachen is a slice of paradise, with gushing streams, snow-covered hills, quaint monasteries, and views you can never get tired of. Sitting at an altitude of 2,694 metres, it is the starting point for treks into the Himalayas, the nearby Chopta Valley (popular among tourists for adventure activities), and the Gurudongmar Lake, the second highest lake in India. The water of the lake is crystal clear and fringed by mountains. The Lachen Monastery, built in 1858 by the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism, overlooks a village and is an ideal place for self-reflection.

Summer Destinations In India

GETTING THERE

Bagdogra Airport is approximately 200 km away from Lachen and is conencted to metro cities such as Delhi and Kolkata. Visiting Lachen requires an Inner Line Permit, for which you can wait in Gangtok (114 km) for a day. It takes approximately four-and-a-half hours to drive to Lachen from there.

STAY

Located in the middle of an apple orchard, The Apple Orchard Resort, built of wood and stone, has 11 spacious rooms equipped with modern amenities (starts from INR 7,479/USD103).

KOHIMA, Nagaland

Delve into Nagaland’s rich culture and delicious cuisine in its capital city, Kohima. Go trekking, rock climbing, or jungle camping in the subtropical rainforests, home to many species of flora and fauna. Head to Kohima Museum to learn about Nagaland’s myriad tribal groups, which make up a colourful cultural tapestry. Visit Ruzaphema for bazaars that sell a wide range of tribal handicrafts. Ten kilometres away from Kohima, the centuries-old Khonoma, popular as Asia’s first green village, is also worth a visit—both for its greenery and stories of bravery of Naga tribes during the British invasion in 1879.

Summer Destinations In India

GETTING THERE

The closest airport is in Dimapur, roughly 74 km from Kohima. It is well connected to cities like Guwahati, Imphal, Kolkata, and Dibrugarh.

STAY

de Oriental Grand offers comfortable rooms and various experiences such as cooking lessons, day trips, trekking through the Dzukou Valley, and camping with the locals (starts from INR 4,480/USD61).

JIBHI, Himachal Pradesh

Hidden deep in the Banjar valley in Himachal Pradesh, Jibhi is a quaint hamlet set along the banks of the Tirthan River, with clusters of wooden houses perched on slopes, and surrounded by thick forests of pine and cedar trees. Its offbeat location makes it an excellent destination for those seeking a quiet holiday. Only a short distance away from attractions like Jalori Pass, Sirlosar Lake, Chehni Fort, and the Great Himalayan National Park, Jibhi is also well suited for activities like birdwatching, fishing, and hiking.

Summer Destinations In India

GETTING THERE

Fly to Bhuntar from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport. From Bhuntar, Jibhi is approximately two hours by road. Alternatively, you can opt for the 493-km road journey (takes around 12 hours) from Delhi.

STAY

Surrounded by green mountains and close to a babbling stream, The Blue Stream Cottage, with just nine rooms, is a delightful escape (starts from INR 5,900/USD81).

Trips for Two

ALAPPUZHA, Kerala

A romantic vibe is characteristic to the backwaters of Kerala. The city of Alappuzha, or Alleppey as it was formerly called, lies at the heart of these backwaters. The ‘Venetian capital of Kerala’ borders the Lakshadweep Sea on one side and the Vembanad Lake—the largest lake in India—on the other. For a taste of the slow life, take a luxury backwater cruise with your partner. Picture narrow rural waterways, early mornings with local fisherman, rice-boat excursions, traditional Malabari cuisine, and entertainment on board.

Summer Destinations In India

GETTING THERE

Cochin International Airport, 83 km from Alappuzha, is well connected to domestic as well as international airports.

STAY

Call The Oberoi Vrinda luxury cruiser your home for up to four days. It comes with a choice of eight luxury cabins, the flexibility of check-in timings, and 24-hour private butlers (starts from INR 1,02,000/USD1,396 per cabin for two nights).

SRINAGAR, Jammu & Kashmir

The Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir carries the fragrance of love in its air. And there are few places better to experience it than the summer capital of Srinagar. Situated along the banks of the Jhelum River at a height of 1,600 metres, Srinagar is part of the Kashmir Valley. It is surrounded by sprawling gardens dating back to the Mughal era; some of the must-visits include the popular Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, and Chashma Shahi. Explore the nearby fields that produce the world’s best saffron, Old Town’s narrow winding lanes, and the hanging gardens of the sun-kissed Dal Lake on a private shikara. Srinagar also serves as the gateway to higher escapes.

Summer Destinations In India

GETTING THERE

Srinagar Airport, located 12 km outside of the city of Srinagar, is well-connected to major Indian airports.

STAY

Vivanta Dal View is an upscale resort perched on Kralsangri hill overlooking Dal Lake (starts from INR 16,000/USD218 per night).

CANACONA, Goa

Located away from most crowded tourist attractions of the state, Canacona in South Goa offers a welcome respite even during off-season months. Home to the popular Palolem Beach, Cabo de Rama Fort, the lesser-explored Butterfly Beach, Cola Beach, and countless hidden hamlets and waterfalls, the region is a playground for romantic adventures. Come summer and couples get to have this part of the Sunshine State pretty much to themselves. Sign up for yoga mornings together, go kayaking, plan romantic dinners, or have a martini with an ocean view.

Summer Destinations In India

GETTING THERE

Fly to Goa International Airport; Canacona is a pleasant 63-km drive from the airport.

STAY

The LaLiT Golf & Spa Resort Goa is an extravagant all-suite golf resort set on Raj Baga Beach in Canacona (starts from INR 8,200/USD112).

SHILLONG, Meghalaya

Peaceful yet lively, popular yet pristine, the hill station of Shillong is perfect for couples who enjoy being in nature’s lap. Located at an altitude of 1,500 metres, the capital city of Meghalaya offers plenty for the adventurous couple—from hiking the David Scott Trail to boating on the Umiam Lake to kayaking on the Kynshi River. It also has cultural attractions in equal measure. The city’s landmarks include a manicured garden called Lady Hydari Park; the Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures, which is an ode to the region’s tribal communities; a British-era church called All Saint’s Cathedral; and the bustling Bara Bazaar, which is a great place to find local food and souvenirs.

Summer Destinations In India

GETTING THERE

Shillong Airport, 30 km outside of the city of Shillong, is well-connected to major Indian cities.

STAY

Ri Kynjai – Serenity by the Lake is a beautiful hillside resort overlooking the Umiam Lake (starts from INR 12,000/USD 164).

AGRA, Uttar Pradesh

With the Taj Mahal being the epitome of romantic monuments, Agra features on the bucket list of most couples visiting India. But there’s more to the city than the legendary marble mausoleum. The erstwhile capital of the Delhi Sultanate, Agra boasts of two more UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Agra Fort, made of red sandstone; and Fatehpur Sikri, built by Akbar in the second half of the 16th century. Located on the banks of the Yamuna River, which is perfect for a sunset cruise, Agra also has a wealth of green strips. Explore Mehtab Bagh, a square riverside garden complex north of the Taj Mahal complex; and the ancient vineyard (now a sprawling courtyard) of Anguri Bagh in front of Khas Mahal at Agra Fort.

Summer Destinations In India

GETTING THERE

The Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi is 222 km from Agra. It takes around four hours on the Yamuna Expressway.

STAY

Check in to The Oberoi Amarvilas, a palatial hotel less than a kilometre from the Taj Mahal, for a regal experience (starts from INR 24,000/USD328 per night).

Getaways with your Gang

PUDUCHERRY, Tamil Nadu

A French colonial settlement until 1954, Pondicherry (renamed Puducherry) is a fascinating Union Territory bordering the Bay of Bengal. Featuring distinctive French and Tamil quarters, the town’s diversified character is reflected in its architecture and cuisine. On one hand is a cobbled seafront boulevard dotted with vegan restaurants, while on the other is a bustling South Indian market flanked by hole-in-the wall eateries serving regional cuisine. With gorgeous beaches, artisanal boutiques, and a youthful vibe, it is the ideal place for a fun vacation with friends. The attractions include The Sacred Heart Basilica, Puducherry Museum, Promenade Beach, and Paradise Beach.

Summer Destinations In India

GETTING THERE

Puducherry is 149 km from Chennai International Airport, which is well-connected to major Indian cities as well as some international ones.

STAY

Le Dupleix is a French-style heritage hotel located in the heart of Puducherry (starts from INR 4,500/USD62).

KOCHI, Kerala

The port city of Kochi offers an unhurried tropical holiday. Discover the region’s unique Chinese-fishing-net culture, Malabar-style luncheons, heritage walks, cutting-edge art, and beautiful sunsets on a trip with your friends. The traditional side of the city comes across vividly in places like Mattancherry, where an eponymous palace showcases the Kerala style of architecture interspersed with colonial influences. The city is also home to many artsy cafes. If you fancy birding, Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary makes for a wonderful excursion.

Summer Destinations In India

GETTING THERE

The Cochin International Airport is one of the major airports in the country that offers domestic as well as international connectivity in good measure.

STAY

A heritage waterfront hotel like Brunton Boatyard by CGH Earth is the way to go in a city like Kochi (price on request).

LONAVALA, Maharashtra

A road trip from Mumbai to Lonavala is popular for good reason. Lonavala is blessed with a cool climate through the year. With plenty of caves, dams, and greenery at your disposal, it’s perfect for a weekend with friends. Explore the region’s Buddhist history with a visit to the Karla and Bhaja caves; hike to the Tiger’s Leap for a panoramic view of the valley; camp beside Bhushi Dam on Indrayani River; go paragliding in Aamby Valley; catch a sunset from the rugged Lohagad Fort; and discover the wealth of waterfalls in this part of the Western Ghats.

Summer Destinations In India

GETTING THERE

Lonavala is a pleasant 84-kilometre drive from Mumbai. The city of Mumbai is well-connected internationally as well as to the rest of India by road, rail, and air.

STAY

The Machan is a modern nature resort offering accommodation in luxurious tree houses (starts from INR 13,000/USD177).

SPITI VALLEY, Himachal Pradesh

Rugged, offbeat, and mystical, Spiti Valley is a must-visit if your squad of travellers have a penchant for adventure and are fascinated with Buddhist culture. It is a remote Trans-Himalayan valley accessible only by road, with the nearest airport being in the district of Kullu, 227 kilometres away. With rocky mountain passes and hairpin bends, the road trip to Spiti is awe-inspiring. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the valley by visiting the monastery and high-altitude lake in the village of Dhankar; the village of Hikkim, which is home to the highest post office in the world; and the iconic Ki Gompa, which looks over the town of Kaza.

Summer Destinations In India

GETTING THERE

Fly down to the Kullu-Manali Airport in Bhuntar, a domestic airport well-connected to major Indian cities. Spiti is 227 km from the airport; hit the road via the newly built Atal Tunnel.

STAY

Base yourselves in Spiti Village Resort, featuring unique luxurious mud cottages in Kaza (starts from INR 7,500/USD102 per night).

LANDOUR, Uttarakhand

A British-era hill station that is known for its literary charm, cosy cafes, and quaint vibe, Landour is ideal for laid-back quality time with your closest pals. The town offers humble experiences such as soulful food at a club of four shops called Char Dukan; stories from author Ruskin Bond’s childhood at his picture-postcard home called Ivy Cottage; ageing countryside manors and cathedrals. Trek to Nag Tibba, which offers picturesque views of Himalayan ranges, pick up a slice of creamy blueberry cheesecake from the legendary Landour Bakehouse, or just sit in the wilderness and spot pheasants, deers, martens, and more. Landour is often clubbed with a trip to its popular sister town Mussoorie, but even on its own, it makes for a memorable vacation.

Summer Destinations In India

GETTING THERE

Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, 62 km away, is the nearest, and offers good connectivity to major Indian cities.

STAY

Rokeby Manor offers quaint English country style rooms (starts from INR 16,100/USD221).

Related: Top 5 Summer Vacation Destinations In Asia You Need To Explore This Year

Written By

Rashima Nagpal & Shrimayee Thakur

Rashima Nagpal & Shrimayee Thakur

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