Escape the Delhi heat: 10 refreshing places to visit this weekend

The burning Indian summer is here, with most parts of the country experiencing scorching heat. Everyone wants a break from this unbearable weather.

India is a country of varied landscapes, and we have options galore to beat the heat. Be it the chilly hill stations or the tranquil beaches, lush green forests, or cool desserts, you can find respite in a pleasant climate throughout the summer season.

Here are the top 10 places in India that have become perfect getaways this summer, offering relief from extreme heat.

1. Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Situated in Himachal Pradesh’s mountains, Manali is an evergreen favorite among tourists and sees maximum footfall during the summer. Located at a height of 2050 meters above sea level, Manali’s temperature ranges from 15°C to 20°C. That is much more soothing than what one experiences on the plains amid hot waves.

Manali has something for everyone: crystal-clear rivers running through, dense forests surrounding, snow-capped peaks standing tall, and thrilling adventure activities. Go hiking up to Hadimba Temple, or take a dip in the cold waters of the River Beas.

Mall Road offers shopping and eating, while ancient temples cater to history buffs. Solang Valley is great for adventure sports lovers, where they can indulge in various outdoor activities.

How to reach?

The nearest airport is Bhuntar, which is about 50 km away from Manali. The closest railhead is Joginder Nagar railway station, which is about 165 km away. Buses run from Delhi and other northern towns.

Manali(Credits: Canva)

2. Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir

Gulmarg, which becomes a world-famous ski destination during the winter, turns into a cool paradise when the snow melts down, revealing vast meadows carpeted with wildflowers during the summer. Situated in the Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir at an altitude of 2730 meters, Gulmarg witnesses temperatures ranging between 10 and 25 °C in the summer season.

Take leisurely walks through scenic alpine forests, ride horses on green meadows, or play golf at one of the world's highest golf courses. Have a fun-filled journey on the Gulmarg Gondola, which is one of the highest cable car rides globally. Visit ancient shrines, such as the Shiva temple, or offer prayers at Zain-ul-Abideen's mother's tomb.

How to reach?

Srinagar is the nearest airport, about 56 km away. Jammu is the closest railhead, at approximately 290 km. Buses, taxis, and cabs are available from Srinagar to Gulmarg.

Gulmarg(Credits: Canva)

3. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh

Tawang, situated deep within the northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh, enjoys pleasant weather throughout the summer, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 22°C. Known for many important Buddhist monasteries, untouched lakes, and abundant natural beauty, Tawang offers a refreshing Himalayan experience.

Visit the 400-year-old Tawang Monastery, trek through alpine forests leading up to high-altitude lakes, or visit historical sites and memorials. Majestic Sela Pass, en route to the rest of India from here, presents breathtaking views. Do not miss the grand Torgya Festival in January that showcases Monpa culture.

How to reach?

Tezpur in Assam has the nearest airport and railhead, both at a distance of around 320 km, which can be covered by shared taxis.

Tawang(Credits: Canva)

4. Shillong, Meghalaya

People often refer to Shillong as the Scotland of the East due to its resemblance to the Scottish Highlands. It has a very mild climate all year. During the summer, temperatures range from 23°C to 25°C. Located at an altitude of 1496 meters above sea level, Shillong in Meghalaya boasts scenic beauty with dense forests, waterfalls, and crystal-clear lakes.

For panoramic views, visit the beautiful Elephant Falls and Shillong Peak. There are also other lovely places, like Living Root Bridges of Mawlynnong Village, which are nature's wonders.

Don Bosco Museum is also worth checking out, along with Lady Hydari Park, where you can enjoy boating in Umiam Lake as well as indulge yourself in various adventure sports such as caving, rappelling, ziplining, etc.

How to reach?

The nearest airport is Umroi, around 40 km away, while Guwahati, which is about 104 km away, serves as the closest railhead; buses ply from Guwahati and Shillong.

Shillong(Credits: Canva)

5. Munnar, Kerala

With its emerald tea estates spread over mist-covered hills amidst rugged mountainscapes, Munnar truly deserves to be called one of the most frequented hill stations in South India. At an elevation of 1600 meters above sea level, Munnar always remains cool with a pleasant climate throughout the year, where summer hardly exceeds 15–25 °C.

Some places that should not be missed comprise going for a scenic walk through extensive tea plantations, wildlife spotting at Eravikulam National Park, visiting beautiful waterfalls besides historical sites such as Mattupetty Dam and Echo Point, among others, and also getting to know how tea processing takes place in factories.

One can stay at The Hosteller, Munnar, amidst lush greenery, which will give them close proximity to nature.

How to reach?

Cochin International Airport is the closest at 110 km away; Aluva Railway Station is about 100 km away; buses ply between Munnar and Cochin/Ernakulam regularly.

Wayand(Credits: Canva)

6. Coorg, Karnataka

Coorg is tucked away in the Western Ghats of Karnataka and boasts some stunning natural beauty with its misty hills, lush forests, expansive coffee plantations, and gushing waterfalls. At a height of 1525 meters above sea level, it remains pleasant throughout the year, where summers are usually around 15–20 °C.

One can visit Madikeri Fort to get a glimpse into the colonial past or choose to hike up Abbey Falls for a great view of cascading water surrounded by green cover. Another interesting place would be the golden-raised Talacauvery Temple (the origin point of the Cauvery River). Also, whitewater rafting can be indulged in on the Barapole River and Kaveri, among others.

How to reach?

The nearest airports are Mangalore (135 km) and Bengaluru (260 km). Mysuru, at 120 km, is the closest railhead. Regular buses ply from Bengaluru and Mysore to Coorg.

Coorg(Credits: Canva)

7. Mount Abu, Rajasthan

Among only a few hill stations located in the desert state, Mount Abu stands tall at an altitude of 1220 meters above sea level. The summer temperatures here range from 23°C to 32°C, thus providing respite from the scorching heat experienced elsewhere in Rajasthan.

Situated amidst the Aravalli Range, this town houses many Jain temples along with Hindu temples, as well as beautiful lakes and viewpoints.

Some must-see places include the famous Dilwara Jain Temples spiritual hub, Brahma Kumaris popular Sunset Point, where one can enjoy boating in Nakki Lake, shopping for local handicrafts, hiking up to Achalgarh Fort, etc. Even wildlife can be explored at Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary.

How to reach?

The nearest airport is in Udaipur, around 185 km away, while Abu Road railway station is just 27 km away. Buses, taxis, and trains connect Mount Abu with cities like Jaipur, Jodhpur, Ahmedabad, etc.

Mount Abu(Credits: Canva)

8. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

Known as a very lovable hill station in the Palani Hills of Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal is famous for its amazing natural beauty and pleasing weather that always keeps coolness in the air. It is situated at an elevation of 2133 meters and has summer temperatures around 15-20 °C.

Take a walk across Kodai Lake, go for scenic strolls through pine forests, visit enchanting Bryant Park with all those colorful flowers blooming there, or explore waterfalls such as the Silver Cascade Falls.

Trek through trekking trails and have a view of the valley from Coaker's Walk. Pay a visit to Kurinji Andavar Temple, where Kurinji flowers bloom every 12 years, and also see Pillar Rocks.

How to reach?

Madurai International Airport is located at about 120 km, which is the nearest airport, while Kodai Road railway station is just 100 km away from here. Regular bus services are available between Kodaikanal and other nearby cities or towns.

Ooty(Credits: Canva)

9. Darjeeling, West Bengal

The Queen of Hills—Darjeeling is one of the most renowned hill stations situated in eastern India at an altitude of 2050 meters above sea level in West Bengal state, bordering the Nepal region. The average temperature during summers remains pleasant, varying between 10°C and 15°C, keeping it slightly colder than the rest of the country, even though it is so close to the tropics.

Ride the UNESCO World Heritage Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train), visit tea estates, and watch beautiful sunset views on clear days with Kanchenjunga visible nearby along colonial-era buildings like Ghum Monastery and Observatory Hill, which provide panoramic views over this entire town, including Mt. Everest, if weather permits.

Take a walk down Mall Road, where there are street food stalls selling momos, fried noodles, etc., amidst the hustle bustle of tourists thronging these streets throughout the day.

How to reach?

Bagdogra airport (70 km) is the nearest airport, whereas New Jalpaiguri railway station (70 km) serves as the closest rail head. Regular bus services and taxis ply between Darjeeling and other parts of West Bengal.

Darjeeling(Credits: Canva)

10. Andaman and Nicobar Islands

If you like beaches more than mountains, then head towards the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, which offer the best island beach holiday experience ever had by anyone to date. These islands are located in the Bay of Bengal and enjoy a tropical climate throughout the year, with an average temperature ranging from 22°C to 30°C during the summer season.

Laze around on pristine sandy shores fringed with coconut palms, indulge in exciting water sports such as scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, etc., or go for island-hopping ferry rides across various very different yet equally beautiful islands, each having unique characteristic features.

Do some reef walking amidst vibrant coral reefs found all along these waters, especially near Havelock Island, where one can even feed fish while standing knee deep into the water itself.

Enjoy lip-smacking seafood delicacies, both Indian and continental-style cuisine, cooked using locally available fresh catch from nearby fishing villages.

Don’t miss the light sound show held every evening here at Cellular Jail under the open sky, depicting various freedom struggle episodes that took place during the British Raj, followed by cultural performances showcasing dances and music traditions prevailing among the different tribes inhabiting these remote areas.

How to reach?

Port Blair’s Veer Savarkar International Airport has better connectivity with major Indian cities than any other airport in Andamans. Inter-island ship and ferry services operate on a regular basis, connecting all inhabited islands together.

Andaman and Nicobar Islands(Credits: Canva)

So this summer, escape the heat wave sweeping across India and head out to these cool places where nature still holds its sway over everything else, which promises to be not only visually refreshing but also spiritually uplifting too. Be it salubrious weather, an abundance of scenic beauty, or myriad sights and activities, do whatever takes your fancy because, indeed, there is something for everyone.

Find comfy stays with The Hosteller

This summer, after such a large number of astonishing spots to visit, the next stage is finding an ideal accommodation . Look no further than The Hosteller — India’s biggest chain of inns that offers reasonable, protected, and comfortable stays for explorers the country over.

Situated in or near all the referenced places, these hostels are scattered across 50 destinations. Wake up to grand perspectives from Manali , appreciate Wayanad, or unwind in Port Blair — you should simply book a spot at one of these clean, mindful lodgings with comfortable beds.

Meet individual explorers in like-minded spaces, partake in exercises together, and make deep-rooted companionships.

With luxuries like WiFi, cooling, a nonstop reception desk, and a travel assistance work area, among others, there isn’t anything that they don’t have available here!

Have a great time while remaining at any incredible systems administration lodging—experience different societies as well as enjoy delightful sights around phenomenal objections. Make this mid-year important with The Hosteller.