From the snow-capped Himalayas, the misty Western Ghats, and the hill stations of North India, to the tea estates of South India and the serene towns of the Northeast, India offers some of the coolest and most refreshing escapes from the summer heat.

Whether you’re craving peaceful nature, adventure-filled trails, cultural exploration, or simply a break from rising temperatures, India has countless summer destinations that deliver unforgettable experiences. Think Rishikesh’s river adventures, Kashmir’s alpine valleys, Manali’s mountain charm, Munnar’s tea gardens, and Darjeeling’s toy-train magic.

Must-Visit Destination in India for  Summer 

But with so many beautiful places to choose from, deciding where to go can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve curated a handpicked list of the Best Places to Visit in India in Summer 2026, covering hill stations, nature retreats, adventure hotspots, family-friendly destinations, budget-friendly options, and offbeat gems.

1. Rishikesh

Rishikesh is one of the best summer destinations in North India, loved for its cool weather, Himalayan foothill scenery, and peaceful spiritual ambience. Located along the sacred River Ganga, the city offers a perfect mix of adventure, yoga, temples, waterfalls, and nature walks, making it ideal for family trips, solo travellers, and adventure lovers.

Often called the Yoga Capital of the World, Rishikesh attracts travellers to its ashrams, meditation centres, river beaches, and iconic suspension bridges like Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula. Whether you want thrilling river rafting, serene Ganga aarti evenings, or a refreshing escape from the summer heat, Rishikesh has everything in one place.

Things to do in Rishikesh 

1. Feel the serene vibes at the Beatles Ashram
2. River rafting and bungee jumping.
3. Visit Neer Garh Waterfall,
4. Camping and trekking to nearby points.
5. Visit Parmarth Niketan Ashram.

Rishikesh Temperature in Summer: 25°C to 36°C

How to Reach Rishikesh

Reaching Rishikesh is easy and convenient from major Indian cities:

By Air

• Nearest Airport – Dehradun Jolly Grant Airport(DED),
• Regular flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Kolkata & Hyderabad.
• Taxis and shared cabs are available outside the airport.

By Train 

• Haridwar Railway Station (25 km) is the major hub
• Frequent trains from Delhi, Jaipur, Mumbai, Kolkata & Varanasi
• Local buses/taxis available to Rishikesh

By Road

•  5–6 hours drive from Delhi
•  Regular Volvo/AC buses from Delhi, Kashmere Gate ISBT
•  National Highway 7 offers smooth connectivity

2. Manali 

Manali offers a perfect blend of snow-capped Himalayan views, pine forests, riverside charm, and adrenaline-packed adventure. Nestled along the Beas River, Manali attracts both nature lovers and thrill seekers with its scenic valleys, cool temperatures, and rich Himachali culture.

Whether you want to paraglide over Solang Valley, experience the magic of Rohtang Pass, stroll through Old Manali cafés, or relax amid deodar forests, Manali is a destination that makes every summer feel refreshing and unforgettable.

Things to Do in Manali

1. Adventure Sports: Paragliding, river rafting, trekking, zorbing & skiing (in nearby high-altitude areas)
2. Visit Solang Valley: Best for adventure activities & cable-car rides
3. Rohtang Pass: Snow views, glacier points & mountain vistas (permit required)
4. Jogini Waterfall: Short trek with stunning nature views
5. Temples: Visit Hadimba Devi Temple & Manu Temple
6. Old Manali: Cafés, live music, shopping & hippie culture
7. Beas River Activities: Riverside picnics, photography & short walks
8. Manikaran Sahib: Famous Gurudwara & hot springs (near Kasol)
9. Local Festivals: Hadimba Devi Fair, Winter Carnival, etc.

Manali Temperature in Summer: 10°C to 25°C

How to Reach Manali

Manali is well connected to major cities through road, air and rail access.

By Air

• Nearest Airport Kullu-Manali Airport, Bhuntar (KUU),
• Regular flights from Delhi & Chandigarh
• Taxis available from airport to Manali

By Road

• Delhi → Manali: 12–14 hours via NH 3
• Chandigarh → Manali: 8–9 hours
• Overnight Volvo buses available from Delhi, Chandigarh & Gurgaon

By Train

No direct railway station in Manali. Nearest options:
• Joginder Nagar Railway Station (160 km)
• Chandigarh / Pathankot → onward by bus or taxi

3. Shimla

Shimla’s cool climate, pine-covered hills, colonial-era charm, and scenic Himalayan views make it a refreshing retreat from the summer heat. Whether you’re strolling on Mall Road, riding the historic Kalka–Shimla Toy Train, or soaking in mountain views from The Ridge, Shimla offers the perfect mix of nature, culture and old-world elegance.

Things to do in Shimla

1. Ride the Kalka–Shimla Railway (UNESCO World Heritage)
2. Visit Jakhoo Temple, The Ridge, and Mall Road
3. Try adventure sports like river rafting, trekking, paragliding
4. Shop at Lakkar Bazaar for wooden handicrafts
5. Go ice skating at the Shimla Ice Skating Rink (Asia’s only open-air rink)
6. Visit Chadwick Waterfall in Glen Forest
7. Explore nearby attractions: Kufri, Mashobra, Naldehra, and Tattapani

Shimla Temperature in Summer: 16°C to 25°C

How to Reach Shimla

By Air

• Nearest Airport – Jubbarhatti Airport(SLV),
• Flights from Delhi & Chandigarh
• Taxis available from airport to main city

By Road

•  Delhi → Shimla: 8–9 hours
•  Chandigarh → Shimla: 3–4 hours
•  Regular Volvo and luxury buses available

By Train

• Nearest station: Kalka Railway Station (90 km)
• From Kalka, take the iconic Kalka–Shimla Toy Train through 100+ tunnels, bridges, and Himalayan forests

4. Kashmir

Clear blue skies, cool mountain air, blooming Mughal gardens, shimmering lakes, and pine-covered hills turn Kashmir into a refreshing retreat far away from the summer heat.

Whether you’re searching for nature, adventure, romance, or cultural experiences, Kashmir offers a perfect blend of everything. From the dreamlike charm of Dal Lake to the meadows of Gulmarg, the alpine wonders of Sonamarg, and the riverside beauty of Pahalgam, every corner of Kashmir feels magical.

Things to do in Kashmir

• A beautiful Shikara ride on Dal Lake
• Go to Mughal gardens: Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh, or
• Travel to Shankaracharya Temple.
• Skiing experience in Gulmarg,
• Trekking through mesmerising trails
• River rafting
• Buy Pashmina shawls, handicrafts, or carpets.

Kashmir Temperature in Summer: 09°C to 31°C

How to Reach Kashmir

By Air:

• Nearest Airport – Sheikh Ul-Alam International Airport, Srinagar
• Well connected to Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Chandigarh.

By Train:
Nearest stations:
– Jammu Tawi (260 km)
– Udhampur
Taxis and buses operate hourly to Srinagar.

By Road:
Travel via the scenic Jammu–Srinagar National Highway (NH44).

5. Ooty

Popularly called the Queen of Hill Stations, Ooty offers rolling green hills, stunning Nilgiri Mountain views, sprawling tea gardens, and a refreshing cool climate, making it the ideal retreat from India’s harsh summer heat.

Nestled in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu, Ooty charms travellers with its peaceful lakes, scenic mountain viewpoints, wildlife, colonial heritage, and the famous Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage toy train experience. Whether you’re planning a family trip, a romantic getaway, or a nature retreat, Ooty provides everything you need for a blissful summer vacation.

Things to Do in Ooty

• Travel to the Botanical Garden,
• Explore Doddabetta Peak,
• Visit to Ooty Lake,
• Experience the Nilgiri Mountain Railway,
• Travel to Mudumalai National Park
• Feel the peace at Pykara Lake and Falls, and
• Learn about tea at the Tea Museum

Ooty Temperature in Summer:15°C to 25°C 

How to Reach Ooty

By Air

• Nearest Airport: Coimbatore International Airport (CJB) – 87 km from Ooty
• Regular flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai.
• Taxis and buses are available from the airport.

By Train

• Nearest Railway Station: Mettupalayam
• Connects to Chennai, Coimbatore & other major cities.
• From Mettupalayam, you can take the Nilgiri Mountain Railway toy train to Ooty.

By Road

• Well-connected by road from:
  • Coimbatore – 85 km
  • Mysore – 125 km
  • Bangalore – 265 km
• State buses, private buses, and taxis available.

6. Coorg

Coorg Famous for its cool weather, endless greenery, and mist-covered hills. Coorg feels like a natural retreat where time slows down and nature takes over.

Often called the “Scotland of India”, Coorg welcomes travellers with rolling coffee plantations, fragrant spice estates, waterfalls, wildlife sanctuaries, and peaceful resorts hidden inside forests.

Wake up to the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, walk through lush estates, relax near gushing waterfalls, and spend evenings soaking in mountain views—Coorg’s charm is soothing in every way.

Things to Do in Coorg

• Feel the splash from Abbey Falls,
• Travel to Namdroling Monastery (Golden Temple).
• Trek to Tadiandamol Peak,
• Admire the natural landscape at Raja Seat.
• Explore wildlife at Nagarhole National Park,
• Refresh yourself at Dubare Elephant Camp, and
• Indulge in the interesting history of Madikeri Fort.

Coorg Temperature in Summer: 20°C to  35° C

How to Reach Coorg

By Air

• Nearest Airport: Kannur International Airport(CNN),
• Other airport options: Mangalore (140 km) and Bengaluru (260 km).

By Train

• Nearest Railway Station – Mysuru Junction,
• Well-connected to major cities.

By Road
Coorg has excellent road connectivity from:
– Mysuru (3 hours)
– Mangalore (4 hours)
– Bengaluru (5–6 hours)

7. Munnar

Munnar is an amazing city in Kerala, famous for its widely spread tea gardens. It offers blissful nature and cool weather to visitors in the Western Ghats of Kerala. Along with tea gardens, fog-covered hills and dazzling waterfalls, it makes it a refreshing place away from the heat.

From the iconic Eravikulam National Park to the majestic Anamudi Peak, every corner of Munnar feels like a postcard, making it a favourite among nature lovers, honeymooners, and summer travellers.

Things to Do in Munnar

• Visit tea gardens and factories,
• Explore scenic viewpoints
• Go on a trek to peaks such as Anamudi
• Watch wildlife at Eravikulam National Park.
• Visit famous waterfalls, Attukal and Chinnakanal
• Travel to Dams such as Mattupetty and Kundala.

Munnar Temperature in Summer: 20°C to 35°C

How to Reach Munnar

By Air

• Nearest Airport – Cochin International Airport,
• Regular flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai.

By Train

• Nearest Railway Station – Aluva,
• Well-connected to major Indian cities.

By Road

• Munnar has excellent road connectivity from:
  – Kochi → 4 hours
  – Coimbatore → 5 hours
  – Madurai → 5 hours

8. Darjeeling

Darjeeling is Famous for its spectacular Himalayan views, lush tea gardens, cool weather, and colonial-era charm. Darjeeling is also home to the world-famous Tiger Hill Sunrise, where you can witness golden rays touching the peaks of Kanchenjunga, and on clear days, even glimpses of Mount Everest.

Whether you love mountain walks, tea garden tours, monasteries, or vibrant local markets, Darjeeling is peaceful, picturesque, and perfect for a summer holiday.

Things to Do in Darjeeling

• Watch the stunning sunrise from Tiger Hill,
• Visit tea gardens,
• Take a ride in the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway,
• Explore monasteries.
• Go for trekking, river rafting, or paragliding.
• Travel to the Peace Pagodas
• Visit gardens and taste local cuisine.

Darjeeling Temperature in Summer: 18 °C to 25°C

How to Reach Darjeeling

By Air

• Nearest Airport – Bagdogra Airport, 68 km
• Direct flights available from Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Guwahati.

By Train

• Nearest Railway Station – New Jalpaiguri,
• A major rail hub connected to all metro cities.

By Road
Regular taxis and buses run from:

• Siliguri → 2.5 hours
• Kalimpong → 2 hours
• Gangtok → 4 hours

9. Gangtok

Pleasant weather, breathtaking Himalayan views, clean streets, monasteries, and a perfect blend of urban comfort and natural beauty, Gangtok promises a refreshing escape from rising temperatures.

The heart of the city, MG Marg, comes alive every evening with golden street lights, cafés, live music, and a pedestrian-only walkway that feels straight out of a dream.

One of the biggest highlights of visiting Gangtok in summer is the clear views of Mount Kanchenjunga. Watching the peak turn golden at sunrise is a memory you’ll carry forever.

Gangtok is also home to ancient monasteries, crystal-clear lakes, and scenic viewpoints, making it perfect for families, couples, and adventure seekers alike.

Things to Do in Gangtok

• Travel to Tsomgo Lake,
• Visit Nathu La Pass,
• Find your peace at Rumtek Monastery,
• Spend some moments at MG Marg.
• Enjoy rafting in the Teesta River and
• A cable car ride for complete city views.

Gangtok Temperature in Summer: 12°C to 28°C

How to Reach Gangtok

By Air

1. Nearest Airport – Pakyong Airport(PYG)
Limited flights; weather-dependent.

2. Major Airport – Bagdogra Airport
Best option with daily flights from Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad.

By Train

• Nearest Railway Station – New Jalpaiguri
• Major railway hub connecting all metro cities.

By Road

Regular taxis and buses from:

• Siliguri → 4 hours
• Darjeeling → 3.5 hours
• Kalimpong → 2 hours

10. Ladakh

Ladakh popular among travellers for its pleasant climate, rocky mountains and beautiful landscape. Ladakh remains at the top of the travellers’ list who love off-road driving or bike riding.

Along with that clear sky, stunning lakes, and trekking are something that draws the visitors here. Ladakh is a paradise for those searching for an escape from the heat. The tranquil monasteries and the surrounding area further add to its splendour.

Things to Do in Ladakh

• Experience the serene vibes at stunning Pangong Lake and Tso Moriri,
• Ride the highest motorable road in the world at Khardung LA
• Visit ancient monasteries such as Diskit and Thiksey
• Feel the surrounding vibes of Nubra Valley, and
• Set on an adventurous trek to Chadar or visit the Zanskar River

Ladakh Temperature in Summer

The Ladakh temperature remains between 15° and 22° in summer.

How to Reach Ladakh

By Air 

• Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL)
• Direct flights available from Delhi, Mumbai, Chandigarh, Srinagar.

By Road (Popular Routes)

• Manali → Leh Highway (478 km) – Open June to September
• Srinagar → Leh Highway (420 km) – Open May to October

11. Auli

Auli, known for its cool mountain weather, lush green slopes, deodar forests, and breathtaking views of the Nanda Devi range, Auli offers a refreshing retreat for travellers seeking peace, nature, and scenic beauty.

In summer, Auli transforms into a paradise of meadows (Bugyals) and pleasant sunshine, making it ideal for nature lovers, trekkers, honeymooners, and families. The famous Auli Ropeway (Asia’s longest cable car) offers jaw-dropping panoramic views of Himalayan peaks.

Whether you want to trek through alpine landscapes, enjoy mountain photography, relax in eco-friendly resorts, or simply breathe in fresh Himalayan air, Auli promises a memorable summer break.

Things to Do in Auli

• Experience trekking in the hills.
• Enjoy breathtaking views of nature.
• Camping to make nature your home.
• Travel to Gorson Bugyal
• Experience the ropeway ride.
• Visit the famous Nanda Devi National Park.
• Enjoy a walk in nature.
• Explore Auli Artificial Lake
• Indulge yourself in a conversation with local people.

Auli Temperature in Summer: 7°C to 20°C

How to Reach Auli

By Air:

• Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun(DED)
• Taxi and bus services are easily available to Joshimath and Auli.

By Road:

• Well-connected via NH7 from Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Dehradun.
• The final stretch from Joshimath to Auli (12 km) can be covered via road or ropeway.

By Train:
Nearest railway station – Rishikesh (260 km)

12. Shillong

Rolling green hills, misty valleys, musical culture, endless waterfalls, and cool mountain breeze, Shillong truly lives up to its title “Scotland of the East.”

The refreshing climate makes it a perfect escape from India’s scorching heat. Travellers love Shillong for its peaceful atmosphere, vibrant cafes, Khasi culture, crystal-clear lakes, and scenic viewpoints. Whether you want nature, adventure, photography, or a relaxed holiday, Shillong offers a blissful break from busy city life.

Things to Do in Shillong

• Visit Umiam Lake for spectacular nature views and a boat ride.
• Travel to Laitlum Canyons for panoramic beauty, and
• Explore the colonial architecture at the Mary Help Cathedral of Christians.
• Go for a trek over the David Scott Trail
• Try rock climbing.
• Visit Police Bazaar to acquaint yourself with local culture.
• Taste mouthwatering Khasi cuisine.

Shillong Temperature in Summer: 16°C to 26°C 

How to Reach Shillong

By Air:

• Nearest airport – Shillong Airport(SHL)
• Major flights connect from Kolkata & Guwahati.
• Alternative: Guwahati Airport (GAU) has better connectivity + more flight options.

By Road:
Guwahati to Shillong drive via NH6 is scenic and takes 2.5–3 hours.

By Train:
No direct railway station. Nearest: Guwahati Railway Station.

Conclusion

India is filled with countless summer destinations, each offering its own magic—from the snow-kissed Himalayas to the misty tea estates of the South and the peaceful landscapes of the Northeast. While this list highlights some of the best places to visit in India in summer, it represents only a small glimpse of what the country truly offers.

Whether you’re chasing cool mountain weather, thrilling adventures, serene lakes, or cultural escapes, India has a perfect summer destination waiting for you. Now is the time to step away from the heat, breathe fresh mountain air, and create unforgettable memories.

If you’re ready to turn your summer plans into reality, connect with the TrekHops team. We’ll help you choose the right destination, plan your itinerary, and design a summer holiday you’ll remember forever.