Summer, as we know, is the hottest season of the year but it is a fun time for the children as they get off from their school at this time of the year. Therefore this is the perfect time for going on a vacation with family to the coolest and the most beautiful places in our country. India has diverse physical features and is blessed with a lot of hilly regions which have the most pleasant climate during summers and act as perfect destinations to create unforgettable memories.

Here’s a list of the Top 5 places in India to visit in summer. Have a look at the list before planning a holiday in India. Take a look!

1. Manali
2. Shimla
3. Ladakh
4. Nainital
5. Kashmir

1. Manali - Lover's Paradise | India's Honeymoon Capital

A holiday in Manali conjures up images of green mountains amidst the snow-covered ranges, a breath of fresh air and a relaxing vacation. Manali is among the most beautiful places to visit in India in summer. It is bequeathed with mercerizing scenery, lush greenery, and miraculous flora and fauna.

How to Reach:

• Nearest Airport is Bhuntar, 50 Kms away from Manali.
• Nearest railhead is in Chandigarh, 291 Kms away from Manali.
• Road trip: Manali is 546 Kms away from Delhi.

Ideal Duration: 3-4 Days

Things to do:

• Indulging in adventure sports at Solang Valley is one of the best things to do in India in summer. Try paragliding, zorbing, quad biking and many others here.
• Head to Rohtang Pass to play in the snow in summer.
• Spot the most beautiful migratory birds in a bird sanctuary nearby.
• Explore Kullu if you have more time in hand.

2. Shimla - Queen of Hills

Shimla is a well-known hill station in Northern India and is one of the most famous vacation places in summer that perfectly captures Indian magnificence with British elegance. It is bequeathed with a rich history and is sanctified with natural beauty. If you’re looking for a relaxing yet fun retreat, Shimla has to be on your list of coolest places to visit in India in May and June.

How to Reach:

• Nearest Airport is Chandigarh, 115 Kms away.
• Nearest railhead is Kalka.
• Road Trip: Shimla is 360 Kms away from Delhi.

Ideal Duration: 3-4 days

Things to do:

• Mall road which fascinates the tourist the most.
• Jakhu Hill is a short and a beautiful drive from Shimla. Visit Lord Hanuman’s Temple here.
• Another major landmark is the Viceregal Lodge which was built during the British reign.
• If you have a fetish for polo then stops over at Annandale which is 4km from the Ridge.

3. Ladakh - India's Own Moonland

Every biker’s dream vacation, Ladakh’s beige craggy hillscape set an appealing contrast to the blue lakes and sky. Summer is considered the best time to visit Ladakh, placing it among loveliest summer holiday destinations in India. Famous Buddhist monasteries of India such as the Thiksey Monastery add vibrant hues to the panorama.

How to reach:

• Leh Airport in Ladakh is well-connected to cities like Delhi.
• Jammu Tawi Railway Station is located about 700 km from Leh city in Ladakh. This is the closest railway station from Ladakh.
• Road trip: The closest major city from Ladakh is Delhi, 1300 km away. If you’re planning a road trip from Delhi to Ladakh, then assure you take enough stoppages enroute and allow yourself to acclimatize.

Ideal duration: 5-7 days

Things to do:

• Explore the rocky routes of Ladakh on an Enfield.
• Experience sheer serenity beside the emerald Pangong Tso Lake.
• Take the camel rides through the sand dunes of Nubra Valley, one of the top places to visit in Ladakh.

4. Nainital - Misty Lakes and Mountains

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Surrounded by lush hills, Nainital is one of the most beautiful summer holiday destinations in India. Easy accessibility and plenty of accommodation options make it a preferred weekend escape from cities like Delhi and Chandigarh.

How to reach:

• Pantnagar Airport is the nearest airport from Nainital, located 60 km away.
• Nearest railhead from Nainital is Kathgodam Railway Station, at a distance of 20 km.
• Road trip: Delhi is the nearest major city from Nainital. The distance between the two is 300 km.

Ideal duration: 2-3 days

Things to do:

• Enjoy boating in Naini Lake – one of the best things to do in Nainital.
• Trek to Tiffin Top for a mesmerizing view of the sunset or sunrise.
• Go bird-watching in Pangot and Kilbury Bird Sanctuary.

5. Kashmir - The Heaven On Earth

When we talk about a summer destination, how can one forget to mention the best place to visit in India in summer – Kashmir? Gulmarg, Srinagar and Pahalgam in Kashmir Valley form the perfect trio for any tourist to explore. Truly the 3 are no less than a paradise hideaways.

How to Reach:

• Nearest Airport is in Srinagar.
• Nearest railhead is Jammu, 290 Kms away from Kashmir.

Ideal duration: 6-7 days

Things to do:

• Kashmir has everything you can think about- lakes, houseboats, hills and gardens.
• Cruise in the azure waters of Dal Lake.
• Take a gondola ride in Gulmarg and visit the many bollywood destinations in Pahalgam.
• Sonmarg is known for its enthralling land of flamboyant blooming flower filled pastures, plush greenery, snow-capped mountains, still, valleys and pine flocked slopes.