10 Best Places to Visit in Summer in North India

Looking for the best places to visit in summer in North India? You have landed right. There are many tourist spots in North India with beautiful landscapes and chill climates. Be it the colonial charm of Shimla to the adventurous spirit of Manali, North India is filled with amazing hill stations. Each destination has unique attractions, that people seek. Let us explore ten such places and why these spots should be at the top of your summer travel list!

Best Places to Visit in Summer in North India

1. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

Shimla is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in summer in north India. It is a charming hill station known for its colonial architecture, bustling Mall Road, and breathtaking views. Shimla is a prime spot of Himachal Pradesh tourism located in the foothills of the Himalayas. It offers a cool and pleasant climate, making it a popular summer retreat.

How to Reach:

By Air: The nearest airport is Jubbarhatti, about 23 km from Shimla.
By Train: Kalka-Shimla toy train is a scenic route connecting Shimla to Kalka.
By Road: Well-connected by road from major cities.

Best Places to Visit:

The Ridge: A large open space in the heart of the town, offering panoramic views of the mountains.
Jakhu Temple: Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, located on Jakhu Hill, the highest point in Shimla.
Mall Road: The main street lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Christ Church: Get to visit the second oldest church in North India.
Kufri: Famous for trekking suitable for hikers.

Things to Do:

Toy Train Ride: Experience the scenic Kalka-Shimla railway.
Shopping: Explore the local markets for handicrafts and souvenirs.
Trekking: Enjoy trekking trails around Shimla, like the one to Jakhu Hill.
Ice Skating: Visit the open-air ice skating rink during winter.
Heritage Walks: Discover the colonial architecture and history of Shimla.

2. Manali, Himachal Pradesh

If you are an adventure lover, you need to visit Manali at least once. Moreover, Manali is a paradise for nature lovers as well that is surrounded by towering mountains and dense forests. The hill station has a chill climate and stunning landscapes, making it one of the best places to visit in summer in north India.

How to Reach:

By Air: Arrive at the Bhuntar, which is only 50 km from Manali.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Joginder Nagar, about 165 km away.
By Road: Well-connected by road from all major cities.

Best Places to Visit:

Solang Valley: Get to experience adventure sports like paragliding and zorbing in the valley.
Rohtang Pass: Offers breathtaking views of the mountains and glaciers.
Hidimba Devi Temple: Visit the ancient cave temple with unique architecture.
Vashisht Hot Springs: Natural hot water springs with medicinal properties.

Things to Do:

Paragliding: Never miss the thrilling paragliding in Solang Valley.
River Rafting: Enjoy rafting in the Beas River.
Trekking: Explore trekking routes like the Hampta Pass and Bhrigu Lake.
Skiing: Visit Rohtang Pass for skiing and snowboarding.
Camping: Enjoy camping under the stars in the beautiful valleys.

3. Nainital, Uttarakhand

The third best place on our list of best places to visit in summer in north India is Nainital. This place is often referred to as the “Lake District of India,” as Nainital is famous for its beautiful lakes and mindblowing landscapes. It is located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand and is a great spot to escape from the summer heat.

How to Reach:

By Air: The nearest airport is Pantnagar, about 70 km from Nainital.
By Train: Just 34 km away, you can arrive at the nearest railway station, Kathgodam.
By Road: Well-connected by road from Delhi and other major cities.

Best Places to Visit:

Naini Lake: A beautiful lake in the heart of Nainital, perfect for boating.
Snow View Point: Offers panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayas.
Naina Devi Temple: A sacred temple located on the northern shore of Naini Lake.
Tiffin Top: A popular viewpoint offering stunning views of the town and surrounding hills.

Things to Do:

Boating: Don’t miss the boat ride on Naini Lake.
Cable Car Ride: Take a cable car to Snow View Point for breathtaking views.
Shopping: Explore the local markets for souvenirs and handicrafts.
Trekking: Trek to Tiffin Top and other nearby trails.
Wildlife Spotting: Visit the nearby Jim Corbett National Park for a wildlife safari.

4. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand

How about visiting the “Queen of Hills,” for the summer? Mussoorie is one of the best places to visit in summer in north India with its refreshing environment, green hills, cascading waterfalls, and colonial-era architecture. The hill station is located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand and serves as a popular summer retreat.

How to Reach:

By Air: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the nearest airport which is 54 km away.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Dehradun, about 34 km away.
By Road: Well-connected by road from Delhi and other major cities.

Best Places to Visit:

Kempty Falls: A popular waterfall offering a refreshing dip.
Gun Hill: The second highest point in Mussoorie, offering panoramic views.
Mall Road: The main shopping street with colonial-era buildings.
Camel’s Back Road: A scenic road offering beautiful views of the mountains.
Lal Tibba: The highest point in Mussoorie, offering stunning views of the Himalayas.

Things to Do:

Cable Car Ride: Take a cable car to Gun Hill for panoramic views.
Trekking: Explore trekking trails like Camel’s Back Road and Lal Tibba.
Boating: Enjoy boating at Mussoorie Lake.
Nature Walks: Take leisurely walks through the lush green hills.

5. Leh-Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir

Leh-Ladakh is another dream destination for adventure seekers. It is known for its rugged terrain, stunning landscapes, and Buddhist monasteries, and serves as a popular spot for adventure lovers and for people who seek spirituality.

How to Reach:

By Air: Arrive at the Kushok Bakula Rimpochee which is the nearest to Leh.
By Road: Well-connected by road from Manali and Srinagar.

Best Places to Visit:

Pangong Lake: A beautiful lake renowned for its changing colors.
Nubra Valley: Famous for its sand dunes, monasteries, and double-humped camels.
Thiksey Monastery: A beautiful monastery offering panoramic views of the Indus Valley.
Magnetic Hill: A majestic hill where known for bike rides.

Things to Do:

Trekking: Explore trekking routes like the Markha Valley and Chadar Trek.
River Rafting: Enjoy rafting in the Zanskar River.
Biking: Experience the thrill of biking on the rugged terrain of Ladakh.
Camping: Camp under the stars at Pangong Lake and Nubra Valley.
Monastery Visits: Explore the ancient monasteries and learn about Buddhist culture.

6. Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh

Dharamshala, the residence of the Dalai Lama, is an amazing hill station surrounded by dense forests and snow-capped mountains. It is beautified with the Tibetan and Indian cultures, thereby making it one of the best places to visit in summer in north India.

How to Reach:

By Air: The nearest airport is Gaggal Airport, about 13 km from Dharamshala.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Pathankot, about 85 km away.
By Road: Well-connected by road from Delhi and other major cities.

Best Places to Visit:

Namgyal Monastery: The personal monastery of the Dalai Lama.
Bhagsu Waterfall: A beautiful waterfall located near the Bhagsunath Temple.
McLeod Ganj: A suburb known for its Tibetan culture and monasteries.
Triund: A popular trekking destination offering stunning views of the Dhauladhar range.
Dal Lake: A small lake surrounded by deodar trees, perfect for a peaceful retreat.

Things to Do:

Trekking: Trek to Triund and other nearby trails.
Meditation: Participate in meditation and yoga sessions at local centers.
Shopping: Explore the local markets for Tibetan handicrafts and souvenirs.
Nature Walks: Take leisurely walks through the lush green forests.
Cultural Tours: Learn about Tibetan culture and visit monasteries.

7. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

Rishikesh is one of the best places to visit in summer in North India. If you are an adventure seeker or a person with a belief in spirituality, this is your summer destination.

How to Reach:

By Air: Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest airport located 35 km away.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh.
By Road: Well-connected by road from Delhi and other major cities.

Best Places to Visit:

Laxman Jhula: A breathtaking suspension bridge where you can have stunning views of the Ganges.
Triveni Ghat: A sacred ghat known for its evening aarti ceremonies.
Parmarth Niketan Ashram: A renowned ashram offering yoga and meditation sessions.
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: A revered temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located amidst scenic surroundings.
Beatles Ashram: A historic ashram where The Beatles stayed and composed music.

Things to Do:

River Rafting: Experience the thrill of rafting on the Ganges.
Yoga and Meditation: Participate in yoga and meditation sessions at various ashrams.
Camping: Enjoy riverside camping and bonfires.
Trekking: Explore trekking trails like the one to Neer Garh Waterfall.

8. Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir

Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, is renowned for its beautiful gardens, houseboats, and the serene Dal Lake. It has a cool climate and unique landscapes, for tourists to enjoy and chill out. Srinagar is easily accessible by all modes of transport which makes it a perfect summer tourist spot.

How to Reach:

By Air: Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport in Srinagar is the closest airport.
By Train: Jammu Tawi, which is almost 300 kilometers away, is the closest train station.
By Road: Jammu and other large cities are well-connected by road.

Best Places to Visit:

Dal Lake: Famous for its houseboats and shikara rides.
Mughal Gardens: A collection of wonderful gardens that includes Chashme Shahi, Nishat Bagh, and Shalimar Bagh.
On the northern shore of Dal Lake is the hallowed Muslim shrine known as Hazratbal Shrine.
Shankaracharya Temple: An ancient temple located on Shankaracharya Hill.
Nigeen Lake: A tranquil lake known for its serene beauty.

Things to Do:

Shikara Ride: Enjoy a peaceful shikara ride on Dal Lake.
Stay in a Houseboat: Experience staying in a traditional houseboat on Dal Lake.
Visit Mughal Gardens: Explore the beautifully landscaped Mughal Gardens.
Shopping: Shop for traditional Kashmiri handicrafts and souvenirs.
Trekking: Trek to nearby places like Dachigam National Park.

9. Auli, Uttarakhand

Auli is a lesser-known gem in Uttarakhand, famous for its skiing slopes and panoramic views of the Himalayas. It offers a cool climate and stunning vistas, making it a perfect summer destination.

How to Reach:

By Air: Arrive at Jolly Grant Airport which is the neartest airport located in Dehradun.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, about 256 km away.
By Road: Well-connected by road from Joshimath and other major cities.

Best Places to Visit:

Auli Lake: Visit the highest man-made lake in Auli.
Gurso Bugyal: A beautiful meadow to enjoy stunning views of the Himalayas.
Chattrakund: A small lake known for its crystal-clear water.
Joshimath: A nearby town known for its ancient temples and scenic beauty.
Nanda Devi Peak: The second highest peak in India, visible from Auli.

Things to Do:

Skiing: Enjoy skiing on the slopes of Auli during winter.
Cable Car Ride: Take a cable car ride from Joshimath to Auli for breathtaking views.
Trekking: Explore trekking routes like the one to Gurso Bugyal.
Camping: Camp under the stars in the beautiful meadows.
Nature Walks: Take leisurely walks through the lush green landscapes.

10. Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir

Gulmarg, known for its lush meadows and snow-covered mountains, is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding. In summer, it transforms into a beautiful meadow with vibrant flowers and offers a cool climate.

How to Reach:

By Air: The nearest airport is Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport in Srinagar, about 56 km away.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi, about 290 km away.
By Road: Well-connected by road from Srinagar and other major cities.

Best Places to Visit:

Gulmarg Gondola: One of the highest rope cars in the world.
Alpather Lake: A beautiful high-altitude lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains.
Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve: A wildlife sanctuary home to various species of flora and fauna.
St. Mary’s Church: A historic church located in the heart of Gulmarg.
Maharani Temple: An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Things to Do:

Skiing: Enjoy skiing on the slopes of Gulmarg during winter.
Gondola Ride: Take a gondola ride for breathtaking views of the mountains.
Trekking: Explore trekking routes like the one to Alpather Lake.
Golfing: Play golf at the highest golf course in the world.
Nature Walks: Take leisurely walks through the lush green meadows.

Conclusion

Therefore, these are the best places to visit in summer in North India that will assure you a variety of experiences. So pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable summer journey through North India’s enchanting landscapes!