Scared of the scorching sun and the hot winds? Well, summer is just not about sweat and heat; it is about summer vacations and memorable moments spend amidst the beautiful landscapes of India. Pack your bags and head towards any of the below mentioned top 20 tourist destinations of India to visit for an immemorial summer vacation this year.

1. Mysterious Leh-Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir

Leh-Ladakh is one of the most amazing places in India; quite aloof from rest of the country. This high altitude cold desert is encircled by the Karakoram Peaks and is decorated by beautiful lakes and mighty rivers, like Indus and Zanskar. The must-do activities at Leh-Ladakh include:

Worship at the multiple Buddhist monasteries, like the Shanti Stupa, Sankar Monastery, Hemis Monastery, Matho Monastery, Lamayuru Monastery, Alchi Monastery and many others.

Trek through the Nubra Valley and Tso Moriri to reach the Hemis National Park; the largest national park in North India and safe shelter for snow leopards. Trekking through Chadar ice-trek over shaky snow bridges, through Markha Valley, Henaskut to Wanla, Lamayuru to Pandum and through the rustic villages of Likerto Khaltse, gives you an insight into the Ladakhi culture and takes you through the spellbinding scenic beauty of the place.

River Raft through the fast rapids of River Indus; popular routes being Hemis – Stakna –  Shey – Thiksey – Choglamsar and Alchi – Khaltsey for the more adventurous.

Biking through the high passes of Leh-Ladakh is an adrenaline booster. Khardungla Pass is the highest motorable pass in the world, which also takes you to one of the most enchanting lakes of Ladakh, Pangong Tso.

Shop warm and soft pashmina shawls, stoles and woolen garments. You can bring back prayer wheels, Buddhist masks, colorful Thangka paintings and sparkling turquoise jewelry as souvenirs. The Tibetan market, Moti market are the main markets in Leh.

Relish piping hot Thukpa, thick soup with vegetables and delicious momo dipped in homemade sauce. Fresh bread with yummy apricot jam can serve as a delectable breakfast.

Read More : 5 Compelling Reasons to Visit Ladakh

Suggested Tour : 15 Days – Delhi to Ladakh Nubra Tour

2. Blissful Sikkim

Encircled with the snow capped Himalayas, Sikkim is an awe-inspiring tourist destination of India. Rejuvenate your body and soul listening to the ripples of River Teesta and strolling through 200 species of orchids. Must-do activities at Sikkim include

Hike through the sprawling greenery at the Himalayan Valleys of Sikkim. Inhale fresh air at the Rhododendron Forests or witness a mesmerizing sunrise at the Kanchenjunga Peak. You can also enjoy a breathtaking scenic beauty at the banks of Lake Tsogmo, reflecting the images of the Himalayan Range over the crystalline waters.

Trek at the tranquil high altitude Goecha La which takes you through the Dzongri and Thangsing meadows; Lamuney is the highest point for camping at Sikkim.

Raft through the rapids of River Teesta to de-stress yourselves. As you sail through the river, you pass through the paddy fields, deep green woods, small villages and white sandy beaches.

Watch almost 200 species of birds at the forests of Kewzing. The Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary shelters the unique species of Satyr Tragopan, Fire-tailed Myzornis, Sultan Tit, Puff-Throated Babbler, Streaked Spider hunter and Eastern Himalayan pheasants.

Ride on the cable cars to get a panoramic view of Gangtok from the top. Yak rides at the banks of Lake Tsomgo are fun. Cycle through the biking route of Gangtok – Rangpo, Gangtok – Temi or Gangtok – Melli to get on a trust with nature.

Party hard at the live music clubs of Sikkim, sipping tumblers of Tongba and relishing sumptuous Tibetan cuisines, which range from sisnoo, gundruk ka jhol, fermented soybean chutney to spicy pork curry.

Worship at one of the largest monasteries of Sikkim, Rumtek Monastery . This shrine depicts Buddhist architectural style and treasures a Golden Stupa, ancient relics of the sixteenth Karmapa.

Suggested Tour : 8 Days – Darjeeling Kalimpong Gangtok Tour

3. Romantic Coorg, Karnataka

Popularly termed as the Scotland of India, Coorg is a treat to the eyes. As far as you can see you will have stretches of green meadows while cool breeze kisses your face. You must home stay to experience the local culture and life style. This also gives you an opportunity to relish authentic cuisines like appam and rich pork curry, known as pandi. Among drinks, the lemon grass tea and fresh coffee of Coorg refreshes you after a long trip.

Trek to get close to the amiable nature of Coorg. Pushpagiri, Kotebetta, Thadiyandamol and Brahmagiri are some of the places for trekking at Coorg.

Raft at the Barapole River or be more adventurous with quad biking amidst the coffee plantations of Coorg for a different vacation. If you are in a mood for serenity and solitude, be at the Valanoor fishing camp. It is located at the backwaters of River Kaveri and has several species of freshwater fish, like, mahaseer, catfish and Eel.

De-stress yourself with the splashes of cold waters from the silvery cascades of Abbey Falls and Iruppu Falls. Nishargadhama, an island at the heart of River Kaveri takes you to an amazing land where herds of deer and elephants move on their mood, grazing soft green grass and peacocks dance to the rhythms of rain.

Pray at the tribal temple of Igguthappa, known for its super powers or visit one of the oldest temples of Coorg, Omkareshwara Temple. This shrine was built in 1820 and is a blend of Islamic and Gothic architectural style.

Read More : Top Places to Visit in Coorg, Karnataka

Suggested Tour : 4 Days – Coorg Madikeri Hill Station Tour

4. Exquisite Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Nestled amidst the Dauladhar range and PirPanjal mountains, Manali is the paradise for lovers. Located at a height of 2050 meters, Manali is a spot to play at the snow carpets of Manali. Explore the spellbinding natural beauty of the Himalayas trekking at the Hampta Pass. Get chilled with white river rafting on the wild waters of River Beas or shore high in the sky with paragliding and ski on the icy grounds of Rohtang Pass. Roll down the sprawling green hills of Solang Valley for some fun.

Rejuvenate and restore your health bathing at the hot Sulphur springs of the villages of Manikaran and Vashisht. Another way to have a refreshing vacation at Manali is to pray your heart out at the ancient shrines of Hidimba, Manu and Vashist; spin the prayer wheels at the Tibetan Monasteries. Or just get high with live music at the quaint cafes and look hot with colored tattoos.

Shop at the Tibetan Market. Buy Tibetan artifacts, souvenirs, like small prayer wheels, bamboo handicrafts, silver jewelry and Thangkas; wrap around soft and warm woolen rugs and shawls or look beautiful on designer warm apparels. Manali is also famous for its hand-woven carpets.

Read More : Top 15 Offbeat Places to Visit in Himachal Pradesh

Suggested Tour : 8 Days Himachal Hill Station Tour

5. Magical Andaman & Nicobar Islands

A cluster of 562 islands, Andaman & Nicobar is a tropical paradise to relax and rejuvenate. You must Andaman & Nicobar Islands to Scuba Dive and Snorkel in the clear, turquoise waters of Bay of Bengal. Get an amazing view of the varied marine life swimming underwater and get a lifetime experience touching the blood red corals. You can even sea-walk at North Bay Island, with school of fish swimming all around you. Parasailing, wind surfing, kayaking and water skiing are the other kinds of adventure sports that you can enjoy here.

Witness history at the Cellular Jail Memorial. This used to be the colonial prison for the British rulers and the sea was then known as the ‘Kala Paani.’

Trek from Mount Harriet to Madhuban to check out the special flora and fauna of the islands. Trek to the tiny village of Chidiya Tapu to listen to the joyous tweets of parakeets, emerald doves, sea eagles, to name a few.

Visit the Mahatma Gandhi National Marine Park to view a stunning collection of gorgeous coral reefs and marine life. The Forest Museum is a treasure house of wooden artifacts while the Anthropological Museum takes you close to the tribal life of Andaman.

Read More : Top 10 Best Beaches in India

6. Spiritual Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

Rishikesh is a complete package of fun, excitement and divinity. Located at the Himalayan foothills this summer holiday destination has a soothing climate and awe-inspiring scenic beauty. Here you can

Mediate and perform yoga at the health resorts spread throughout the city. These yoga centers can transform your stressed life into a life pf peace and tranquility; helping you get into a better diet and restore your health.

Visit the banks of River Ganges to watch Ganga Aarti. The priests worship the holy waters by making offerings, illuminating the place with oil lamps and singing hymns.

Feed the fish from the Ram and Laxman Jhula Bridge or walk through the Aastha Path, which starts from Barrage to Ram Jhula to go to the Triveni Ghat. There are local markets located at both sides of the bridge where you can collect ethnic wears, locally designed jewelry, precious stones, spiritual books and items.

Worship at the old temples, namely, Bharat Mandir, Raghunath and Hanuman Mandir.

Boost your adrenaline with adventure sports like river rafting over River Beas, playing paint balls, bungee jumping from an enormous height of 120 to 160 feet. Flying fox, cliff jumping, air safari, kayaking, hiking, rock climbing, water rappelling are the other activities that brings you close to nature at Rishikesh.

Read More : 10 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Uttarakhand

Suggested Tour : 12 Days Haridwar & Rishikesh Tour

7. Homely Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh

Yes, if you are looking for silence and solitude, Tawang welcomes you. Located at an altitude of 10,000 feet, this summer retreat is best known for Tawang Monastery which relates to the 14^th century. This is the second largest monastery of Asia and a treasure house of old manuscripts, books and artifacts related to Buddhism.

The Tipi Orchid Sanctuary is a 100 sq. kms protected area. You can trek through the dense woods to enjoy the natural habitat of the orchids or play with the baby elephants at the nearby Eagle nest Wildlife Sanctuary.

Sela Pass, which is the only high altitude pass of the world which is motorable. Drive through the Sela Pass to enjoy the bewitching scenic beauty of the surroundings. The Paradise Lake on the way is another gem in the nature’s creation.

Gorichen Peak is a challenge to the trekkers and once you reach the 22,500 feet hill top, you will not regret the toil, due to the panoramic view of the lush greenery and snow White Mountain peaks that await your presence. The 16000 feet elevation of Bumla Pass is another trekking destination which can boost your adrenaline to the fullest.

Shonga-tser Lake is an enchanting water body reflecting the high snow -capped peaks and with a soft bed of grass all around to help you rest and relax.

Nuranang Waterfalls is a spectacular 100 meters’ cascade rejuvenates you with its cold splashes of water.

8. Beautiful Darjeeling

If you want to wake up to the peeping sun from behind the snow peaks of Kanchenjunga or if you want to have a playful vacation, Darjeeling is your summer escapade. Here you can ride the toy trains, which take you round the sprawling greenery of Darjeeling. Pray at the Peace Pagoda and Ghoom Monastery to feel peaceful. Walk through the dew drenched tea plantations and sip a cup of exotic Darjeeling tea to feel refreshed.

Witness a mesmerizing sunrise from the Tiger Hill, as the sky gets painted with sublime colors.

Buy curios from the make shift stalls of Batasia Loop. Checkout the various kinds of trekking equipment at the Himalaya Mountaineering Institute while the zoo located within its premises is a safe shelter for Red Panda, Snow Leopards, Himalayan Deer and Black Bear.

Sail over the crystalline waters of Sumendu Lake at Mirik. Observe the blend of Buddhist and Hindu cultures at the Mahakal Temple. Buy fresh cardamoms, Pashmina shawls and woolen carpets from the Tibetan markets. Relish hot chicken momo dipped in homemade sauces or thick noodle soup, Thukpa to keep yourself warm or spice up your life tasting dalle, a local pickle.

Read More : Tips for First Time Darjeeling Travellers

Suggested Tour : 5 Days – Darjeeling Tour Packages

9. Soulful Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

Perched at the Palani Hills, this hill station is at an elevation of 7200 feet. The foggy weather, the twisted roads, dense woods and echoing hills of Kodaikanal beckons the romantic hearts. Here you can

Stroll around the Kodaikanal Lake hand in hand with your loved ones enjoying the pleasant breeze coming from the hills or sail over its waters watching a colorful sunset. Coakers Walk takes you through the deep valleys, filled with tweets of numerous birds and aromatic with clusters of vibrant flowers.

Absorb the beauty of nature at Pillar Rocks, encircled with fog, standing high at 122 meters.Get kissed by the clouds at the Green Valley View point or spend some time just by yourself at the banks of the Berijam Lake.

Trek at the Dolphin’s Nose, 2000 meters deep and providing a breathtaking view of the Western Ghats. Wash away the stress with the fresh waters of Liril Falls and Pambar.

Pray at the Kurinji Andavar Temple, dedicated to Lord Murugan. The temple exhibits Dravidian architectural style and is encircled by the famous Kurinji flowers, which bloom once in 12 years.

Read More : 6 Top Places To Visit In Karnataka

Suggested Tour : 6 Days – Mysore Ooty Kodaikanal Karnataka Tour

10. Enthralling Wayanad, Kerala

This green paradise is a treat to the eyes. The long stretches of paddy fields, the chilled mist, the thick forests and the joyous tweets of birds, all blends to create a soothing natural ambience at Wayanad. Here you can hike at the towering hills of 6900 feet; Chembra Peak bring the highest trekking spot. Nestled at an altitude of 1740 meters, the Pakshipathalam Caves are deep rock caverns houses some of the rarest flora and fauna of South.

The Banasura Ranges is another exciting trekking destination, dotted with steep slopes, gorges, mountain streams and deep thickets. The Neelimala View Point is a unique trekking spot with the scent of ginger and areca nuts filling the air. The Valley of Clouds, the Kurisumala Peak and the Kalladi Forests are the other hiking and trekking spots of Wayanad.

Cycle through the sprawling tea gardens of Nilgiri, listening to humming of the gardeners; breathing the strong aroma of the coffee plantations and addictive scent of the cardamom plantations; checking out the bamboo arts and crafts of the Uravu bamboo factory, which range from spice boxes, lampshades to rainmakers.

Safari at the wildlife of Wayanad at the Tholpetty wildlife sanctuary. Watch out the cool and large elephants grazing through the swamps, teak and bamboo forests of the protected area. The Muthanga wildlife sanctuary is another place to spot herds of elephants, spotted deer, bison, Malabar squirrels and leopards.

Read More : Top Tourist Attractions in Wayanad

Suggested Tour : 13 Days – Wayanad Tour with Kerala Beaches & Forests

11. Miraculous Shillong, Meghalaya

Encircled by the Khasi Hills from all sides, Shillong is one of the most wonderful tourist destinations of India. Fill your heart with fresh air at the rolling hills of Shillong, besides touching the clouds at the 2000 meters high Shillong Peak. This is also an ideal picnic spot with villages lying at its foothills, which look more like tiny dots from the top.

Feeling the splashes of cold waters from the luxuriant Bishop’s Falls, Beadon Falls, Crinoline Falls, Elephant Falls and Spread Eagle Falls or sailing over the mirrored waters of the Ward’s Lake. Walk through the spectacular garden surrounding this artificial, horse-shoe shaped lake or feed the numerous species of fish which fill the lake.

Play golf at one of the highest altitudes at the Shillong Golf Club; it is also the first 18-holed golf course of India.

12. Refreshing Munnar, Kerala

Lying at an enormous height of 6000 feet, Munnar used to be the summer resort of the British rulers. You can discover a new life at Munnar by walking through the dewy tea plantations, inhaling the fresh air and sipping some aromatic tea. Here you can also go for trout fishing at the Sita Devi Lake, located at the heart of the tea plantations. The TATA tea museum is also a must visit to know more about tea processing.

Splashing fresh waters from the cascades of the Western Ghats. Also, visit the Top Station Viewpoint to view the beautiful blossoms of Neelakurinji flowers, which bloom once in 12 years.

Checkout the endangered species of Nilgiri Tahr at the Eravikulam National Park. If you want to be in a real paradise be at the Blossom National Park, which is adorned with colorful flower beds.

Echo your name from the Echo Point. If you love adventure, go for rock climbing, paragliding, rappelling and cycling through the slopes of Munnar.

Read More : Top Tourist Attractions in Munnar

Suggested Tour : 3 Days – Munnar Tour Packages

13. Quaint Mount Abu, Rajasthan

This is the only hill station at the desert state of Rajasthan. This granite hill top is safeguarded with dense forests and is also a pilgrimage. Mount Abu is known for the Dilwara Temples: This group of Jain temples are beautifully sculpted with religious images and decorated with intricate designs. Almost a thousand years old, these shrines are made from marble.

Shopping Arcade: Mount Abu is a shopper’s paradise. Fill your bags with locally designed jewelry, leather goods and shoes, boutique apparels and handicrafts made from sandalwood, sandstone, marble and metal.

Quintessential Cuisines: Rajasthani cuisines are famous worldwide; satisfy your taste buds with local platters like DaalBaati Churma, lalmaas, kheer sangria and many more. Know more about what to eat in Mount Abu.

Read More : Attraction Not To Miss in Mount Abu

Suggested Tour : 5 Days – Jaipur, Pushkar, Mount Abu Tour

14. Charming Auli, Uttarakhand

If you want to avoid the tourist crowd, be at the lowlands of Auli. There are several reasons to visit Auli, like skiing at one of the highest Ski Resort of the world. At summer, this skiing destination transforms into a Valley of Flowers, which is a photographer’s paradise.

Getting 180 degrees view of the Nanda devi Range. You can also get a bird’s eye view of the towering mountains from the cable car rides of Auli; this is the highest and longest ropeway of Asia after Gulmarg. Located at 3010 meters above sea level, this place is also popular amongst paragliders.

Boating over Auli artificial lake; one of the highest man-made lakes of the world. The Chenab Lake is another crystalline water body where you can spend some pleasant time boating and relaxing.

Trekking at Gorson Bugyal, an elevation of 3056 meters. This green pasture is surrounded by coniferous forests and oak trees. Chattarkund, lying just 1 km away from Gurso Bugyal is another trekking destination; a fresh water lake at the heart of the dense forest. Trek to Kwani Bugyal meadow, lying at a height of 3380 meters from where you can get a majestic view of Mt. Nandadevi and Mt. Dunagiri. Camping at this huge meadow and lying under the moonlit sky is a memory for life.

Pilgrim at Joshimath, located at a height of 1890 meters. This is also the holy confluence of Alakananda and Dhauliganga. This religious tourist spot is also the gateway to Himalayan Expeditions, trekking trails and camping.

Read More : 7 Best Destinations for Skiing In India

15. Captivating Mussoorie, Uttarakhand

The spellbinding beauty of Mussoorie has earned it the name of Queen of Hills. The most visited places in Mussoorie are Lal Tibba is the highest point, perched at 2346 meters. Shadowed with pine and deodar trees, this sloping hills brings you more close to nature.

Happy Valley gives you an in-depth view of the Tibetan culture and also is a gateway to the scenic hotspot like Cloud’s End.

Jirapani Falls is another piece of natural beauty; a white cascade gushing down from the Shivalik Range, wrapped with flowers, creepers and shrubs.

Nag Devta Temple is a must visit to check out the local rituals and way of worship of Lord Shiva.

Benog Wildlife Sanctuary is a safe residence of a wide range of wildlife, like the Himalayan goat, panther, leopards, deer and bears.

Himalayan Weavers is a government stall where you can buy warm clothes woven by the local Bhotia and Shilpkar tribals.

Shedup Choepelling Temple is a gem of Tibetan architecture. It comes with bright interior walls, clay lamps, prayer flags and is encircled with a lush green garden filled with colorful flowers.

Suggested Tour : 12 Days – Chardham Tour Package

16. Alluring Matheran, Maharashtra

This small hill station of Maharashtra is perched at the Sahyadri Range and is a green heaven. The tourist hotspots of Matheran are Charlotte Lake: This serene picnic spot fills your holiday with fun.

Look- out Points: The Echo Point, Porcupine Point, Monkey Point, Panorama Point and Heart Point are some of the highest places at Matheran from where you can get a panoramic view of the surroundings.

Trekking: This is the nearest trekking destination to Mumbai. Trek from the Bhivpuri Station to Garbert Plateau to deep dive into the natural beauty of the hill station.

Horse Riding: Looking for some sun and thrill? Ride horses through Matheran, galloping from one place to another.

Valley Crossing: This is an awesome trip from Honeymoon Point to Louisa Point, where you get to know nature and can restore your health amidst the blissful nature.

Read More : Must See Tourist Places in Mumbai

Suggested Tour : 5 Days – Mumbai With Goa Tour

17. Blissful Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir

Kashmir, known as the Paradise on Earth offers a different taste to your vacation. Here you can stay on House boats: It is a lifetime experience to stay on the well decorated and well equipped houseboats of Dal Lake. Here you open your eyes to the sight of shikaras sailing on the water, selling flowers and other products. if you want to avoid the hustle and bustle of the Dal Lake, stay at the houseboats of Nagin Lake.

Stroll through the Mughal Gardens: Stroll through the Shalimar, ChasmeShahi and Nishat Gardens of Kashmir to sooth your eyes to the vibrancy of bright flowers and refresh yourself with the aroma of bright flowers.

Relish Lip Smacking Cuisines: Srinagar is famous for its delectable dishes, such as Wazwan cuisines.

Suggested Tour : 7 Nights – Srinagar Ladakh Tour

18. Rich Masinagudi, Karnataka

If you want to be in the laps of nature this summer, be at Masinagudi National Park. Spread over a massive area of 60 sq. kms, this national park is a safe shelter to grey langurs and bonnet macaques. Tigers, leopards, bears, elephants, golden jackals, striped hyenas and multiple avian species like Malabar Trojan, crested hawks, eagles and tit babbler fill the jungle with twitters. The forest is also dense and diverse with tall bamboo plants, stretches of teak woods and with blooming trees like Indian Labumusum, Aredesia, Solanancea.

Suggested Tour : 13 Days – Karnataka Tour with Goa

19. Thriving Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra

This exotic hill station of Maharashtra beckons tourists with its pleasant weather and lush greenery. The quiet hills of Mahabaleshwar has

• Peaks like Needle Hole Point, Arthur’s Seat, Kate’s Point, Wilson’s Point and the 3 Monkey Point, from where you can get a panoramic view of the breathtaking beauty of the place.
• The Veena Lake, which is born from the gushing waters of a stream, reflects the bewitching beauty of the surrounding greenery.
• Yummy strawberry, raspberry and mulberry dipped in cream.

Read More : Sightseeing Tours of Mumbai in a Day

Suggested Tour : 7 Days – Mumbai Goa Cochin Tour

20. Colonial Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh

If you want to get a vibe of the colonial charm of India, be at this only hill station of Madhya Pradesh. Enveloped with green valleys and natural lakes, this hill station brings to you a new way of life through trekking and leisure walks at Reechgarh, Bada Mahadeo, Pandav Caves, Padmini Lake, Priyadarshini Point and Apsara Vihar.

Read More : Top 10 Places to Visit in Madhya Pradesh

Summers are no more sweltering when you have a vacation at any of the above retreats of India.

Also Read : Romantic Destinations for Summer Vacations in India

                     25 Best Places to Visit in India in June

                     Top 20 Exciting Places to Visit India in July

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