Top 17 Best Places to Travel in the Summer for an Unforgettable Vacation
Let’s be honest—summers in India can be brutal. The sun doesn’t just shine, it scorches. But don’t sweat it (literally), because India is also blessed with some seriously cool summer getaways—think misty hills, breezy beaches, green valleys, and charming little towns that seem to have pressed pause on the chaos of everyday life.
Best Places to Travel in the Summer to Beat the Heat
So if you’re dreaming of a vacation that’s equal parts chill and thrill, here’s a list of the 17 places to go for summer break for an unforgettable escape. Pack that sunscreen, grab your shades, book a car rental, and let’s hit the road.
1. Manali, Himachal Pradesh – For Snow and Solitude
Manali is that classic go-to summer spot and universally acknowledged as the best place for vacation in summer. Whether you’re into paragliding over the Solang Valley or just sipping chai with a view of snow-capped peaks, Manali gives you the space to slow down and breathe. Summers here are like nature’s reward after a year of hustling.
Why go: Stunning mountain views, adventure sports, cozy cafes, and a peaceful vibe that hits reset on your soul.
2. Munnar, Kerala – For Tea Gardens and Cool Breezes
Tucked away in God’s Own Country, Munnar is like a green painting brought to life. Rolling tea gardens, mist floating over the hills, and weather that makes you want to write poetry (or at least pretend to).
Don’t miss: Eravikulam National Park, tea museum visits, and boat rides on Kundala Lake.
3. Darjeeling, West Bengal – For Toy Trains and Mountain Vibes
Among the top places to go for summer break is the Tea Capital of Bengal, Darjeeling. Wake up to views of the Kanchenjunga, sip on world-famous tea, and ride a toy train that chugs through hills and forests. Darjeeling has a charm that’s impossible to ignore.
Top picks: Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Tiger Hill sunrise, and the peaceful Peace Pagoda.
4. Ooty, Tamil Nadu – For Colonial Charm in the Nilgiris
Ooty, or Udhagamandalam if you want to impress locals, feels like a British novel come to life. One of the most sought-after places to visit during summer, there are botanical gardens, homemade chocolates, and the famed Nilgiri Mountain Railway for that Insta-perfect click.
Pro tip: Visit Doddabetta Peak for a panoramic view that’ll steal your breath (in a good way).
5. Shillong, Meghalaya – For Waterfalls and Music
When considering the best places to travel in the summer, the Scotland of the East is an absolute must-visit. Shillong is cool, green, and full of soul. It’s not just about nature, it’s about culture too—live music, vibrant cafes, and friendly locals make this a summer gem.
What to do: Head to Elephant Falls, explore Umiam Lake, and don’t miss the music scene.
6. Nainital, Uttarakhand – For Lakeside Bliss
The Naini Lake is the star of the show, but Nainital is more than just pretty waters. It’s got colonial charm, bustling bazaars, and viewpoints that let you soak in the Himalayas without breaking a sweat.
Activities: Boating on the lake, a cable car to Snow View Point, and a lazy walk on Mall Road.
7. Coorg, Karnataka – For Coffee and Quiet
Ah, Coorg, one of the top summer vacation places for people from all over the country. A place where time slows down and the air smells of coffee. Located in the Western Ghats, it’s known for its emerald-green landscapes and pepper plantations.
Must-see: Abbey Falls, Madikeri Fort, and sunrise at Raja’s Seat.
8. Leh-Ladakh – For the Ultimate Road Trip
This is not just a vacation, it’s a journey of a lifetime. Adventure lovers and trekkers swear by the surreal beauty of Leh-Ladakh, the best places to travel in the summer. High-altitude passes, pristine lakes, and ancient monasteries await those who dare to venture to Ladakh.
Experience: Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, Magnetic Hill, and maybe even a bike trip on the world’s highest motorable road.
9. Mount Abu, Rajasthan – For a Desert Surprise
Yes, Rajasthan has a hill station. And it’s lovely. Mount Abu is the best place for vacation in summer and offers a break from the heat with cool breezes, beautiful Jain temples, and a calm lake perfect for lazy boating.
Highlight: Dilwara Temples—trust us, the intricate marble work is worth it.
10. Gangtok, Sikkim – For Peace and Prayer Flags
Gangtok is modern yet spiritual, busy yet calm. In the list of leading summer vacation places, It’s where monasteries and mountaintops meet, and where you can taste momos while gazing at the Himalayas.
Don’t skip: Rumtek Monastery, Tsomgo Lake, and a yak ride, if you’re feeling adventurous.
11. Auli, Uttarakhand – For Meadow Magic
Famous for skiing in winter, Auli transforms into a hiker’s dream in summer and is one of the best places to travel in the summer. Green meadows, oak forests, and uninterrupted views of Nanda Devi—this is where you go to feel alive.
Best for: Trekking, ropeway rides, and soul-searching moments with nature.
12. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh – For Hidden Beauty
Tawang is offbeat, untouched, and absolutely stunning. Monasteries perched on hills, crystal-clear lakes, and a strong Tibetan influence make this one of India’s best-kept secrets. With car rental from Revv that offer flexibility and ease-of-commute, exploring becomes a breeze.
Vibe check: Spiritual, scenic, and surprisingly serene.
13. Coonoor, Tamil Nadu – For the Quiet Sister of Ooty
If Ooty feels a little too crowded for your taste, head to Coonoor. It’s calm, cool, and comes with views that don’t scream for attention—they just quietly impress you.
Things to love: Sim’s Park, Lamb’s Rock, and endless cups of Nilgiri tea.
14. Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra – For Strawberry Fields Forever
Perched high in the Sahyadris, Mahabaleshwar is a sweet summer retreat—quite literally, thanks to its strawberry farms. It’s breezy, beautiful, and just a road trip away from Mumbai or Pune. It is considered the best place for vacation in summer by seasoned travellers.
Unwind with: Boating on Venna Lake, viewpoints like Arthur’s Seat, and fresh fruit cream.
15. Kashmir Valley – For a Slice of Heaven
From Srinagar’s iconic shikara rides to Gulmarg’s green meadows and Pahalgam’s scenic trails, Kashmir is the crown jewel of India. And in summer, it’s just perfect—lush, colorful, and dreamy.
Make time for: Tulip gardens (if you’re early), the floating vegetable market, and sipping kahwa with a view.
16. Ranikhet, Uttarakhand – For Pine Forests and Peaceful Vibes
If you’re looking to escape the tourist crowd and just listen to the rustle of pine trees and chirping birds, Ranikhet is your kind of place. This quaint cantonment town offers a laid-back summer retreat with clean air, scenic trails, and postcard-worthy views of the Himalayas.
Perfect for: Long nature walks, picnics under pine trees, golf with a view, and quiet sunsets. Visit the Jhula Devi Temple and Chaubatia Gardens for that extra touch of charm.
17. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu – For Misty Hills and Lake Strolls
Often called the “Princess of Hill Stations,” Kodaikanal is tucked away in the Palani Hills and offers that perfect mix of cozy weather, misty mornings, and soothing landscapes. The star-shaped Kodaikanal Lake, flower-filled valleys, and winding forest trails make it a dreamy summer destination.
Don’t miss: Cycling around the lake, boating, exploring Coaker’s Walk, and trying homemade chocolates from the local shops.
Car Rental for the Best Places to Travel in the Summer
Whether you’re craving some mountain air, a peaceful retreat, or just want to escape the heat and noise of the city, there are plenty of great summer destinations calling your name. And if you’re thinking road trip (because let’s face it, half the fun is in the journey), a self-drive car rental can make life so much easier.
Services like Revv offer a super convenient way to hit the road. You get clean, well-sanitized cars, flexible rental plans that won’t box you in, and even doorstep delivery, so no running around before your getaway begins. Whether you need a small car for two or an SUV for the whole gang, Revv’s got options, all with clear pricing and no hidden surprises. Just book, drive, and start your summer adventure.
