India’s tourism department has a catchy slogan – “Incredible India”. There are plenty of great reasons why this is true – for one, the incredible diversity of the vast Indian subcontinent. While most of India is as hot and sunny as you can imagine, there are also certain stunningly beautiful getaways that keep you cool and fresh, even in the hottest Indian summer. Read on for our list of the Top 10 Indian Summer Destinations.
1.Nubra Valley, Ladakh.
Located in the astonishingly lovely and desolate Ladakh region, right in the bosom of the Himalayas, the Nubra Valley is one of the few places in India where it actually snows. While you shouldn’t expect any snow in the summer, be prepared for the outstandingly clear visuals of the famous Nubra Valley night sky – with millions of stars gloriously shining on you. Also, you’re gonna love exploring the natural beauty of Ladakh.
2.Coorg, Karnataka.
Coorg is just the place to go to if you love nature, greenery, exquisite scenery, and most importantly, coffee! Coorg is the top producer of coffee in India, and you’re gonna love a walk in the vast coffee plantations. Enjoy your coffee in Coorg while delighting in the cool breezes that this place is also famous for. Coorg is the top producer of coffee in India, and you’re gonna love a walk in the vast coffee plantations. Enjoy your coffee in Coorg while delighting in the cool breezes that this place is also famous for.
3.Mcleod Ganj, Himachal Pradesh.
Present in the foothills of the Himalayas and named after a British governor, this naturally beautiful hill station is favored by many foreign tourists. You’ll love the relaxed atmosphere of this place. Also, the locals are a very amiable bunch, very receptive to foreign tourists. Be sure to collect some really lovely handicrafts and jewelry on display in the busy markets of Mcleod Ganj, teeming with activity.
4.Shillong, Meghalaya.
Popular for its picturesque natural settings, and in particular for its lovely waterfalls, Shillong is a throwback to an earlier era of the British empire, with many of the grand architectural designs of the colonial era still being preserved and in very good shape. Do visit the Don Bosco Museum, Lady Hydari Park, Golf Course and many other great places when you get there.
5.Ooty, Tamil Nadu.
Perhaps the most famous of all Indian summer getaways, it’s difficult to come across a place anywhere in the world with the stunning beauty of scenery, as you’ll find in Ooty. Grab hold of your best camera, and start clicking away. Also, enjoy your boat rides in the clear and transparent Ooty lakes.
6.Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh.
If you just want to be alone, or just be with your partner, away from the teeming millions of India, Tawang is just the place for you. Sparsely populated, yet safe, you’ll enjoy the peace and quiet of this lovely hill town. Make it a point to visit the Tawang War Memorial, Craft Center, Gorichen Peak and other great places when you get there.
7.Darjeeling, West Bengal.
When in Darjeeling, a lovely hill city, full of splendid greenery and some of the most exotic flora and fauna, get on a fun trip on the famous Darjeeling Toy Train – you’ll just love the experience!
8.Masinagudi, Tamil Nadu.
If you’ve had enough of the hill stations, and long to see the wild life in the dense Indian jungles, Masinagudi, a small town in the midst of the Madumalai jungle is just right for you. Grab the camera, go on a wild life safari and catch hold of mammoth sized elephants, flighty deer, wild buffaloes, foxy foxes, and if you get lucky, even the dreaded tiger. jungle is just right for you. Grab the camera, go on a wild life safari and catch hold of mammoth sized elephants, flighty deer, wild buffaloes, foxy foxes, and if you get lucky, even the dreaded tiger !
9.Rishikesh, Uttarakhand.
If you’re into Eastern religion and spirituality, you’re gonna just love Rishikesh – which has been one of the most sacred places for Hindus for centuries. Visit the ancient temples and enjoy the peace and tranquility. If you are an adventure junkie, Rishikesh has something for you too -trekking, rafting, mountaineering, rock climbing – this place has got everything for the thrill seeker in you.
10.Mysore, Karnataka.
The big city of Mysore is a tourist magnet, and very cool during summers. There are any number of places you may visit when in Mysore – the monumental Mysore palace, the lovely botanical park at Brindavan Gardens, go on a wild safari in the nearby forests, visit the rare bird sanctuary at Ranganathittu, or spend a day of fun at the huge Mysore Zoo.
