Summer season is here and the only respite from this scorching heat is the school holidays or weekends to escape away from the chaos and crowds of cities. School holidays are great for planning a quick vacation to recharge your batteries; however, the idea of peak summer season comes with overpriced packages and high airfare. Perhaps, you cannot escape your work commitments but a quick excursion wouldn’t be a problem. It is an ideal time to plan a holiday with family and explore a new destination while having fun and new experiences. Here are the top destinations in India that you must consider visiting with family during summer holidays.

Munnar, Kerala

Popular for its lush hills, pleasant climate and hillsides sprawled with tea plantations, Munnar is truly a one-of-a-kind place and perfect for summer holidays. Drive through the twisted roads surrounded by lush plantations while enjoying air filled with a strong scent of tea and sound of birds chirping, and you’ll know why Munnar is a gem of Kerala. There is so much to do here – spend your evening while enjoying a cultural performance and if you’re up for adventures, go for paragliding or rock climb to witness views from the top. You can also indulge in spas and massages to rejuvenate and freshen yourself.

Must-Visit Places: Elephant Lake, Kundala Lake, Anamudi Peak, Tata Tea Museum, Echo Point, Devikulam, Chinnakanal and Chithirapuram.

Leh, Ladakh

It's hard to explain the beauty of Ladakh in words and if you’re seeking a thrilling holiday, this is the place to be. Rough terrain and snow conditions during most of the year make it a challenging destination to explore. State highways are only open during specific period which is why summer is the ideal time for visiting. The majestic mountains, barren land and the crystal-clear waters of Pangong lake will take your breath away. Spot rare snow leopards at Hemis National Park, drive to the highest motorable pass in the world - Khardung-La and spend your night stargazing.

Must-Visit Places: Zanskar Valley, Khardung-La Pass, Pangong Tso Lake, Hemis National Park, Magnetic Hill, Nubra Valley and Shanti Stupa.

Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Manali is a popular hill station which attracts vast number of tourists especially in summer. Easily accessible from Delhi and Chandigarh, this Himachal gem boasts endless lush valleys, cascading river and snow-capped mountains. Even 3 to 4 days are enough to explore this serene hill town – go on stroll at the Mall Road and look for souvenir to take home, try adventure activities in Solang valley or visit Rohtang Pass to enjoy snow.

Must-Visit Places: Jogini Falls, Manu temple, Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk Art, Arjun Gufa, Rohtang Pass, Hidimba Devi Temple, Bijli Mahadev.

Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

Shimla is another famous hill station in Himachal Pradesh and perhaps one of the most visited places in summer. It was once the summer capital of British India and quite accessible from Delhi and Chandigarh. You can either spend a relaxed weekend here or choose to extend the stay by exploring nearby places such as Chail and Kufri. Spend your time taking a stroll in the famous Mall Road and discover its numerous cute cafes or pay your respects at the most sacred temples.

Must-Visit Places: Mall Road, The Ridge, Jakhu Temple, Kufri

Mount Abu, Rajasthan

Just 185 kilometres from Udaipur, Mount Abu is Rajasthan’s only hill station located in the Aravalli Hills and often referred to as an oasis in the desert. It provides a respite from the scorching heat to Rajasthanis and Gujaratis, and is especially popular amongst honeymooners. It boasts lush forests, exotic flora and fauna, ancient temples as well as majestic forts, and carries great spiritual importance for both Hindus and Jains with over 80 temples and shrines, Dilwara temple being the most famous.

Must-Visit Places: Dilwara Temple, Raghunath temple, Government Museum, Gaumukh Temple.

Mussoorie, Uttarakhand

Mussoorie is another popular hill station which sees scores of tourists in summer and offers thrilling activities such as waterfall bathing and paragliding in hills. It was established by British colonialists and the ghosts of bygone era still lingers in its churches, summer palaces and hotels. When the mist clears you can enjoy views of the green Doon Valley and the snow-capped Himalayan peaks. 

Must-Visit Places: Dhanaulti, Lal Tibba, Gun Hill, Kempty Falls, Mall Road.

Gangtok, Sikkim

Sikkim’s capital is a great place to explore the beauty of North East India and offers plunging green valleys, snow-capped views of Khangchendzonga and a pleasant weather. From monasteries to wildlife, there is so much to see and experience here. Ganktok’s commercial heart Mahatma Gandhi (MG) Marg is packed with restaurants, shops, cafes and travel agencies. Visit Rumtek Monastery, enjoy scenic views from Tashi View Point or trek to Chhangu Lake and Tsomgo Lake to make the most of your trip. 

Places to Visit in Sikkim: Tsomgo Lake, Ravangla, Rumtek Monastery, Tashi Viewpoint, Lachung, Lachen and Yumthang Valley, Zuluk.

Are you interested in planning a summer holiday to one of these destinations? Contact our travel experts for flight and holiday offers tailored to your requirements.