An Easy Tourist Guide to Summer Destinations in North India
North India is not just home to the majestic Himalayas. The valleys, natural waterfalls, lush green landscapes, and most of all, the warm North Indians—you’ll have it all here. If there’s one way to beat the Indian summer, it is to visit these North Indian wonders. Summer heat is a constant in the plains, but you’ll find North India a refreshing haven with its pleasant weather, fun activities, and greenery.
Planning Your Great Northern Escape- Visa Essentials
Before you embark on your adventure to experience the North Indian Mountain breeze, let's talk about Visa essentials for international visitors. Getting to Know the Tourist Visa for India with its Processing Time, Fees, and Tips to Accelerate Your Application is your initial important step. India’s visa process has opened up to many e-Visa possibilities. Many have found the hassle-free 5-Year e-Tourist Visa perfect for multiple visits. For your travel plans to proceed without any issues, research the application for the Indian Tourist e-Visa and its requirements beforehand.
Now, let’s get to know more about the top North Indian Destinations for tourists.
Shimla- The Queen of Hills
Shimla is nestled cozily in the timeless evergreen woods of Himachal Pradesh. For centuries, it has been the summer retreat for the English and post-independence for Indians. You’ll like the agreeable climate, colonial architecture, and cosmopolitan charm of this place.
Historic Centre
Start at the Ridge with the city unfolded below, visit the historic Christ Church, and hike to Jakhu Temple for spiritual light.
Nostalgic Journey to Take
Travel by the UNESCO World Heritage Kalka-Shimla Toy Train.
Shopping & Culture
Go to Mall Road for local woolens and handicrafts, and woody marvels at Lakkar Bazaar.
Getaways
Travel to Kufri for adventure and scenery, or venture into the old Indian Institute of Advanced Studies. For more getaways to unwind, Dalhousie and Chail are amongst the Top Offbeat Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh.
Dalhousie-The Tranquil Retreat
This pleasant hill station is spread over five hills and is only a short drive away from Shimla. Enjoy the picturesque hill station with all its colonial flavour and deodar and pine tree forest cover. It is also perfect for a stroll while pointing out beautiful churches while soaking in the cool mountain air.
Chail-Royal Retreat with Quiet Atmosphere
Another quiet retreat near Shimla, Chail, has the world's highest cricket pitch and a beautiful palace (now a heritage hotel).
It's perfect for the person looking for a quiet retreat from the maddening crowd, with ample scope for nature walks and quiet night stargazing.
The Valley of Gods- Manali & Beyond
Manali is a retreat from the summer heat, beckoning nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers in equal proportions, with its exciting alpine climate, foamy Beas River, and steep snow peaks.
Manali is Adventure and Tranquility Combined
Adventure Destination
Start your Manali vacation at Solang Valley, a goldmine for adventure seekers with zorbing, paragliding, and ATV biking.
High-Altitude Thrills
Travel to Rohtang Pass (check access) for spectacular panoramic vistas of the Pir Panjal range and Dhauladhar range.
Spiritual & Cultural Immersion
There are some great off-beat destinations nestled right in the Cedar forests, like the Hadimba Devi Temple and the Manu Temple in Old Manali.
(Be sure to check out other off-beat destinations in this other article of ours! )
Bohemian Vibes & Wellness
Old Manali is not just great for the nature trails but also for the peaceful little cafes where you can unwind and rest. Don’t miss out on the rejuvenating experience of the natural sulfur hot springs at Vashisht Temple.
River Thrills
Get your heart racing with river rafting in the Beas River, a summer favorite.
Legendary Expeditions
For the ultimate adventure junkie, a bike holiday along Manali-Leh is guaranteed to provide scenery and challenging riding.
Kasol & Spiti- Bohemian Culture and Cold Deserts
Let’s find out more about these, shall we?
Kasol- Backpackers' Paradise
This hill station is located in the Parvati Valley. It is famous for its laid-back atmosphere befitting its riverside setting. The short treks here can be quite refreshing.
Spiti Valley- High-Altitude Wonderland
Think of this as a snowy desert valley nestled between the cold Himalayan ranges. The wild scenery and green meadows are untouched by humans and are a perfect retreat from the Indian summers.
Winter Contrast
Offering a dissimilar summer experience, do not forget that most of such high-altitude destinations prove to be the Best Winter Destinations with Snowfall in India, with an entirely different, snowy beauty.
Spiritual and Adventure Honeypot- Uttarakhand Jewels
Uttarakhand, or "Devbhumi" (Land of the Gods), offers a mix of summer getaways from spiritual pilgrim centers to adventure sport resorts and serene hill resorts.
Rishikesh & Haridwar- Spiritual and Adventure Fusion
If you’re visiting Haridwar, there’s no way you’re leaving without witnessing the Ganga Aarti at the Triveni Ghat in Rishikesh. The Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula will naturally follow on your itinerary. Get in touch with your spiritual self at the Parmarth Niketan ashram and the Vashishta Gufa, an ancient cave where one of the seven revered Rishis(Sages) of Hinduism meditated.
Adventure Capital
The title of "Adventure Capital of India," is often given to Rishikesh for the adventure sports prevalent in here. You can try white-water rafting, bungee jumping, and trekking to waterfalls like Neer Garh. Your Summer visit will be quite rewarding because April-June is ideal for rafting.
Haridwar Pilgrimage
Behind Rishikesh lies Haridwar, one of India's holiest places. Participate in the Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri, travel by ropeway to visit the Mansa Devi Temple, and also pay your respects at the Bharat Mata Mandir.
Mussoorie- The Queen of the Hills (Uttarakhand)
Nicknamed the "Queen of the Hills," Mussoorie's foggy summits and colonial structures draw a decent crowd of tourists.
Major Attractions
Watch the busy Mall Road, cable car excursion to Gun Hill Point for Himalayan views, and enjoy great sunrises at Lal Tibba.
Nature's Bounty
Watch Kempty Falls and trek to Bhatta Falls and Jharipani Falls. Enjoy relaxed evening walks on Camel's Back Road.
Historic Vista
Spot George Everest House for Doon Valley view.
Lake Focus
This scenic hill station is all about the pear-shaped Naini Lake, perfect for boating, yachting, and paddling.
Spiritual & Scenic Points
Visit the famous Naina Devi Temple and ride the cable car to Snow View Point for stunning Himalayan vistas. Tiffin Top also offers equally stunning views.
Family Fun
Take a walk through the fascinating Eco Cave Gardens and the High Altitude Zoo. Bird enthusiasts would love Kilbury Road.
Lakeside Walks
Enjoy leisurely strolls, shopping, and local cuisine along lively Mall Road.
Auli- Meadow and Majestic Peaks
A winter sports resort, by and large, Auli is a bustling, verdant green haven during summer, with beautiful scenery.
Scenic Rides
Travel on the Auli Ropeway for panoramic aerial views of Nanda Devi.
Trekking & Nature
Trek to Gorson Bugyal, a sea of wildflowers, and unwind at Chattrakund Lake for peaceful picnics.
Outdoor Activities
Perfect season for hiking and trekking in summer, where one can hike along the routes of Auli to Gorson Bugyal and Kuari Pass. Camping on starry nights is an experience to cherish.
High-Altitude Desert- Ladakh
For an adventure of a lifetime, Ladakh in summer is a fantasy realized. This high-altitude desert nation magically referred to as "Little Tibet" offers out-of-this-world scenery, dramatic landscape, and Buddhist opulence. June-September is the best season, when roads are accessible and the weather is nice.
Leh & Its Dreamy Scenery
Visit Leh Palace for town vistas from everywhere and Shanti Stupa for a peaceful atmosphere and a stunning sunset.
Monastery Explorer
Witness the rainbow-hued Buddhist heritage of Thiksey Monastery (equivalent to Lhasa's Potala Palace) and Hemis Monastery.
Nubra Valley & Camels
Visit Nubra Valley, a paradise with cold deserts, sand dunes, and double-humped Bactrian camels. Witness Diskit Monastery here.
High-Altitude Drive
Experience the bungee-jumping-like drive over Khardung La Pass, the world's highest motorable road, through scenic landscapes.
Pangong & Tso Moriri Lakes
Visit the breathtaking Pangong Lake (over 14,000 ft), famous for its changing shades of blue. Cycling or camping, here is simply unforgettable. Visit other breathtaking lakes like Tso Moriri.
Adventure Central
Ladakh is a motorbiker's paradise, with great motorbike tours. Experience white-water rafting in the Zanskar River and other trekking activities.
Offbeat and Peaceful Retreats
For quiet and finding quirky secrets, North India is full of offbeat and serene hideaways. The locations are serene, as one would discover, with plenty of space to indulge in authentic immersion in nature and culture, most of them among the Top Offbeat Places to Visit in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand.
Lansdowne- A Taste of Mountain Life
This serene hill station in Uttarakhand is a serene secret haven enveloped by colonial elegance and lushness.
Perfect for tranquility, relaxation, nature trails, sightseeing of ancient churches, and a stress-relieving experience.
Almora & Kausani- The Secret Gems of Kumaon
Almora
A refreshing retreat between the Kumaon hills with easygoing weather, picturesque Himalayan scenery, rich heritage, and colorful bazaars.
Kausani
A scenic hill station famous for stunning Himalayan views (e.g., Trishul and Nanda Devi mountains), popularly known as "Switzerland of India." Excellent place for nature lovers and peaceful strolls.
Munsiyari- Little Kashmir
Tiny rural village in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand, off the beaten track and acclaimed for its untainted beauty and massive peaks.
Ideal for treks and mountaineering, with a rugged and real Himalayan experience.
Planning Your Summer Escape- Tips to Remember
To have a hassle-free, memorable summer tour of North India, keep these tips in mind-
Weather Watch
Weather in mountains can be unpredictable even during the summer months. Dress in layers, i.e., light jackets for the evening. Thermals and heavy clothing are required for higher mountain altitudes such as Ladakh.
Book In Advance
The peak tourist season (May-June) is the best time to visit, and therefore it is better to book your accommodation in advance to get the most reasonable prices and to avoid last-minute hassles. Homestays are the best place to stay for an actual experience.
Transportation Options
North Indian hill stations are well linked by road. The easy taxi and bus facility is also available. For traveling on offbeat roads, it is convenient to have a car or a bike. When flying to Leh to visit Ladakh, allow one or two days for acclimatization.
Altitude Sickness Precautions
For higher-altitude locations like Ladakh, exercise caution with Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Stay hydrated with lots of water, rest upon arrival, and refrain from alcohol and cigarettes for the initial couple of days.
Respect Local Customs
Wear modest clothing when visiting religious sites like temples and monasteries, and refrain from speaking. Where possible, seek permission before taking photos of locals to be sensitive to their privacy.
Sustainable Travel
Practice ecotourism. Refrain from single-use plastics, do not litter, remain on trails where indicated when hiking, and make a conscious effort to patronize local businesses in an effort to help the local economy.
A North Indian summer for you will be all about nature, culture, and ofcourse, adventure! Embrace the spiritual aspects within yourself, feel the thrill of adrenaline, all while venturing away from the sweltering heat of summer. So, grab your bags, say goodbye to the city's summer heat, and immerse yourself in the cool, refreshing touch of the stunning North India.