Are you
wondering which are your best bet for the next holiday destinations in India?
Being a
traveler and a nature lover, I have experience some really amazing and
exquisite views in India. Few of those are not very popular but when it comes
to a peaceful, calm and relaxing place that can rejuvenate your soul, I bet these
places are the best ones!
Some of
these are very apt for biking experience and some of these places has its own
beauty in terms of culture, season, history and natural beauty.
This
list of some popular and some off the beaten path tourist places in India. I
hope this blogpost helps you plan some unforgettable summer vacations in India
whether it’s a family break, a get together of friends, escape from your
corporate existence or a romantic getaway
and honeymoon trip.
So
without further digressions, we move on to our list of the best summer holiday destinations in India
to help you choose and plan your vacation!
Top Places to go for Summer Holiday in India
1.
Ladakh
2.
Sikkim
3.
Bhutan
4.
Tawang
5.
Darjeeling
Ladakh: Adventure, Romance & Buddhism
Fondly referred to as the "Little Tibet", Ladakh is no more the India's best kept secret when it comes to tourism and one of the finest places for summer holidays in North India. This high altitude cold desert in India is a once in a lifetime experience.
Fondly referred to as the "Little Tibet", Ladakh is no more the India's best kept secret when it comes to tourism and one of the finest places for summer holidays in North India. This high altitude cold desert in India is a once in a lifetime experience.
Well Ladakh is one such thing. A trip to
Ladakh - just like love - can’t be expressed in words. The mighty Karakorum
with its cotton-wool peaks bounds Ladakh, a terrain characterized by vast
barren valleys, lofty mountain passes, beautiful lakes, and the last
undisturbed home of Tantric Buddhist population.
Ladakh’s arid terrain
undergoes drastic weather changes owing to its elevation. Temperature varies in
extremes both during summers and winters. That’s the allure of Ladakh. Summer
is the best time to visit this magical land of Lamas and that is why it is
the top tourist place in India to visit during summer.
There are a score
of high mountain passes including the tough Baralacha La and the second highest
Taglang La along with the vast mesmerizing Morey Plains and the
thrilling Gata Loops for a road trip.
What are the attractions
you ask?
Well the entire landscape of Ladakh is a sight to behold, the burnished mountainous terrain, sparse vegetation, snow capped mountains, the emerald Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri and Tso Kar and Hunder - also referred to as the desert in the sky - along with the magnificent monasteries in the sky are what makes Ladakh so special.
Well the entire landscape of Ladakh is a sight to behold, the burnished mountainous terrain, sparse vegetation, snow capped mountains, the emerald Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri and Tso Kar and Hunder - also referred to as the desert in the sky - along with the magnificent monasteries in the sky are what makes Ladakh so special.
 |
| Pangong Tso is one of the most prominent tourist places in Ladakh |
Ladakh also has the power
to bring out the pest of poet, thinker, writer and photographer in you. And if
you are uncertain because Ladakh falls in the state of Jammu and Kashmir, know
this that unlike the rest of J&K, Ladakh has seen almost no violence since
India got Independence.
Sikkim: Family, Adventure and Honeymoon Destination
 |
| Rumtek is one of the most important Tibetan Buddhist Monasteries in North East India |
One of the most unexplored
and mystical places in India happen to be the North East region. Bound by the
majestic Himalayas with the gushing Teesta River crisscrossing the
entire stretch of the land, Sikkim in North East India is one of the best
tourist places in India to uncover. The fact that it is relatively unexplored
makes it all the more appealing for discerning travelers and one of the top
destinations for summer holidays in India.
There are myriad opportunities for all kind of travelers when it comes to things to do and places to visit in Sikkim. There are Buddhist Monasteries, cascading waterfalls, unexplored caves, gushing rapids, Himalayan trekking trails, high altitude lakes and lush valleys to be explored that makes Sikkim an ideal destination for family holidays, adventure trip and honeymoon tours in India.
There are myriad opportunities for all kind of travelers when it comes to things to do and places to visit in Sikkim. There are Buddhist Monasteries, cascading waterfalls, unexplored caves, gushing rapids, Himalayan trekking trails, high altitude lakes and lush valleys to be explored that makes Sikkim an ideal destination for family holidays, adventure trip and honeymoon tours in India.
 |
| Gurudongmar Lake in Sikkim is one of the top tourist destinations in North East India |
The picturesque valleys laden with over 200 species of orchids and
rhododendron forests and relatively mild treks into pristine Himalayan ranges
and the stunning Kanchendzonga makes
Sikkim alluring as a popular honeymoon destination in India especially during
Summer. At Ravangla where the
only tea estate of Sikkim is located, honeymooners could found a blissful
escape surrounded in shroud of greenery lorded over by the mighty Kanchendzonga
peak.
 |
| A view of Kunchendzonga in the morning from Sikkim |
 |
| Gurudwara Nanak Lama Sahib |
Day hikes in
Sikkim in lush valleys of Himalayas are especially favored by the visitors on a
family holiday. The easy to moderate hikes that could be undertaken even by
elderly and children passes through bucolic surroundings and wooded hills
dotted with rhododendron forests and giant magnolia trees punctuate the deep
verdant cove. One of the top places to visit in Sikkim also includes Tsogmo Lake, a high altitude lake with
towering Himalayas in the backdrop.
The lake remains frozen during winters but one could still visit it and enjoy hot sip of tea and momos on the frozen lake. Yet another important lake to visit in Sikkim is the Gurudongmar Lake. Don’t miss out on visiting Gurudwara Nanak Lama Sahib and nearby Buddhist shrine when you visit Gurudongmar Lake considered one of the holiest site in Sikkim.
For adventure
lover, rowing down the Teesta River in rapids varying from grade 1 to 4 offers
an adrenaline pumping experience. For more pro rafters, the extreme rapids of Rangeet River that flows through Sikkim
and Kalimpong offers challenging
stretches of rapids.
If you like to soar like an eagle, then visit Sikkim in the month of October and November which is the ideal time for paragliding in Sikkim. Bright sunny sky and favorable weather makes it ideal time for paragliding and it is also when the annual paragliding festival is held in Gangtok, capital city of Sikkim.
For religious and cultural interactions, one could visit Rumtek Monastery, one of the most important centers of Tibetan Buddhism and a repository of ancient and medieval artifacts. Rumtek Monastery also happens to be the official seat of the Karmapa Lama. Yet another important place to study Tibetan Buddhism is the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology in Gangtok.
If you like to soar like an eagle, then visit Sikkim in the month of October and November which is the ideal time for paragliding in Sikkim. Bright sunny sky and favorable weather makes it ideal time for paragliding and it is also when the annual paragliding festival is held in Gangtok, capital city of Sikkim.
For religious and cultural interactions, one could visit Rumtek Monastery, one of the most important centers of Tibetan Buddhism and a repository of ancient and medieval artifacts. Rumtek Monastery also happens to be the official seat of the Karmapa Lama. Yet another important place to study Tibetan Buddhism is the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology in Gangtok.
Bhutan:
For Adventure, Culture & Nature
 |
| Bhutan, the last Shangri La is the sole surviving Himalayan Buddhist Kingdom |
Well not exactly
in India but still it could be reached by road only from India and the fact
that Indian National do not
need to pay $250 daily tourism fee or get the visa, we couldn't resist but add this as one of
the best places for summer holidays in India. Even if you are a foreign
national, you would love to read on!
Wedged between India and China, Bhutan is remote and pristine
destination where the ancient Buddhist tradition is still preserved. Held
separate by the formidable mountains, this Himalayan Kingdom also referred to
as the ‘last Shangri La’ is perhaps the only country where developed is
measured not by GDP but Gross Domestic Happiness.
 |
| Tourism in Bhutan is unique and the Bhutanese pride themselves on a sustainable, eco-friendly approach |
Druk Yul, ‘the
land of thunder dragon’ as it is locally referred to, the essence of Bhutan
lies in its traditions, Buddhist culture, unspoiled landscapes and absence of
‘crowd’ tourism. It is also one of few last places in the world where Tantric
Tibetan Buddhism, with temples of florid and lamas in maroon robes chanting
to ancient instruments still survives intact.
Tourism in Bhutan is strictly regulated with government’s emphasis on
“High Value, Low Impact Tourism.”
There’s a hefty daily package for tourist (except from India, Bangladesh
and Maldives) and the tourist visas must be initialized by a government
authorized tour operator in Bhutan.
Things to do in Bhutan
 |
| Taktsang Palphug Monastery in Paro, also known as the Tiger's Nest is a prominent Himalayan Buddhist sacred site and temple complex |
One of the
positive impacts of tourism policy of this Himalayan Kingdom is the visitor's
ability to plan tailor made their tour to Bhutan. Tour themes in Bhutan could
be easily segregated as 1) history and culture, 2) trekking or 3) nature tours in the most protected and pristine
surroundings in the
Himalayas.
Must visit places for a complete cultural experience of Bhutan are Punakha, Thimpu, Dochu La
Pass, Gangtey, Wangdi Phodrang, Trongsa and spectacular Dzongs & monasteries.
Tawang,
Arunachal Pradesh: Adventure & Spirituality
 |
| Lake near Tawang |
One of
the least populated towns in Arunachal Pradesh, Tawang is one of the
most sought –after destinations in summer in India ideally visited in May and
June before the arrival of Monsoon or after late September and in October.
It is
located in the westernmost district of Arunachal Pradesh and shares its borders
with Assam. It is a perfect retreat from the hustle-bustle and the scorching
heat of summer. The need for weather change is one of the most motivating
reasons to plan a trip to Tawang.
The
reason behind Tawang’s popularity as a summer retreat is its positioning at
the altitude of about 10,000 feet above sea level which accounts for its
pleasant weather. This region is quite famous for the imposing 14th century
Tawang Monastery. It was built at the will of 5th Dalai Lama ‘Merag Lama
Lodre Gyamtso’ and belongs to Mahayana sect of Buddhism.
Another
major attraction of Tawang is the Tipi Orchid Sanctuary which houses thousands of varieties of orchids.
Sela Top Pass, which remains covered with snow throughout the year, is the major route to get to Tawang.
Sela Top Pass, which remains covered with snow throughout the year, is the major route to get to Tawang.
Tourist
places in Tawang: Hot water springs -
Pankang Teng Tso Lake - Sangeshar Lake - Sela Pass - Tawang Galden Namgyal
Lhatse
Fairs
& festivals: The most celebrated
festival of Tawang is ‘The Losar’, the famous Tibetan Buddhist festival, which
took place in the months of February/March.
Travel
Tips: Tawang is a restricted area.
Foreign nationals need inner line permits to visit this hill station and
permits are available from major cities such as Delhi, Guwahati and Kolkata.
Souvenir/Shopping: One can purchase local and traditional handicrafts for taking
back home as souvenir.
Best
time to visit Tawang is from April till October. Be prepared for incessant
rains if you are traveling here after the arrival of monsoon in India.
Darjeeling:
Tea, Adventure and Romance
 |
| Darjeeling is a scenic Hill station famous for its tea gardens and majestic view of Kanchendzonga |
Nestled on the precipice of
a mountain ridge and bounded by verdant plantations of globally renowned teas, Darjeeling
is so not West Bengal.
With jagged peaks of magnificent Himalayas offering spectacular panorama - you could even see the peak of Mount Kanchendzonga - Darjeeling is the place to be to savor unruffled luxury and to rejuvenate your senses.
You could also take Darjeeling Mountain Rail (one of the popular "Toy Trains of India") to explore and soak in the magnificent surroundings of this scenic hill station in India. June is ideal month to plan your trip to avoid summer's scorching heat.
As with most other hill stations in India which were the playgrounds of erstwhile British rulers during Raj, you could find colonial mansions and churches as well as recent structures such as Buddhist and Hindu temples and botanical gardens.
The steep narrow streets are crowded with colorful souvenir and handicraft shops and a good steaming brew and excellent Indian and Tibetan fare are never far away. You could also choose from exciting trekking trails which trace ancient trade routes not to mention the breathtaking sights.
Best Time: Most tourists visit after the monsoon (October and November) and during spring (mid-March to the end of May) when skies are dry, panoramas are clear and temperatures are pleasant.
So, what are you waiting for, pick a place, pack your bagpack, put on your hiking and water boots, get your gears tuned up and Ready, Set ... Go!!!! I hope this was useful for some of you.
Stay Safe, Travel More!
SaNj
With jagged peaks of magnificent Himalayas offering spectacular panorama - you could even see the peak of Mount Kanchendzonga - Darjeeling is the place to be to savor unruffled luxury and to rejuvenate your senses.
You could also take Darjeeling Mountain Rail (one of the popular "Toy Trains of India") to explore and soak in the magnificent surroundings of this scenic hill station in India. June is ideal month to plan your trip to avoid summer's scorching heat.
As with most other hill stations in India which were the playgrounds of erstwhile British rulers during Raj, you could find colonial mansions and churches as well as recent structures such as Buddhist and Hindu temples and botanical gardens.
The steep narrow streets are crowded with colorful souvenir and handicraft shops and a good steaming brew and excellent Indian and Tibetan fare are never far away. You could also choose from exciting trekking trails which trace ancient trade routes not to mention the breathtaking sights.
Best Time: Most tourists visit after the monsoon (October and November) and during spring (mid-March to the end of May) when skies are dry, panoramas are clear and temperatures are pleasant.
So, what are you waiting for, pick a place, pack your bagpack, put on your hiking and water boots, get your gears tuned up and Ready, Set ... Go!!!! I hope this was useful for some of you.
Stay Safe, Travel More!
SaNj
