India’s summer can be intense, but it also unlocks a treasure trove of cool hill stations, lush valleys, and scenic retreats. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a seasoned explorer, this guide to the 10 Best Places in India will help you plan an unforgettable summer escape. Here’s everything you need to know about where to go, what to see, the best time to visit, and how to reach these 10 Best Places in India from Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, and Chennai.
Why Choose These 10 Best Places in India?
From the snow-capped mountains of Ladakh to the misty tea gardens of Munnar, these 10 Best Places in India offer pleasant weather, unique experiences, and a welcome break from the heat. Here’s the definitive list for your 10 Best Places in India summer adventure115:
- Ladakh, Union Territory of Ladakh
- Manali, Himachal Pradesh
- Munnar, Kerala
- Darjeeling, West Bengal
- Coorg, Karnataka
- Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
- Ooty, Tamil Nadu
- Gangtok, Sikkim
- Shillong, Meghalaya
- Nainital, Uttarakhand
10 Best Places in India & Best Time to Visit
The ideal time for a summer trip to these destinations is from late March to early July. This period ensures cool temperatures, clear skies, and open access to all major attractions. For places like Ladakh and Manali, June to September is especially pleasant, while hill stations in the south like Munnar and Ooty are best enjoyed from June to March468.
How to Reach the 10 Best Places in India
From Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, and Chennai
| Destination | From Mumbai | From Delhi | From Kolkata | From Chennai |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ladakh | Direct flight to Leh or via Delhi/Manali by road316 | Direct flight/train to Leh or via Manali by road16 | Flight to Delhi, then Leh | Flight to Delhi, then Leh |
| Manali | Flight/train to Delhi/Chandigarh, then bus/taxi to Manali5 | Bus/taxi from Delhi | Flight/train to Delhi, then bus/taxi | Flight to Delhi, then bus/taxi |
| Munnar | Flight to Kochi, then taxi/bus7 | Flight to Kochi, then taxi/bus | Flight to Kochi, then taxi/bus7 | Flight/train to Kochi, then taxi/bus |
| Darjeeling | Flight/train to Bagdogra/NJP, then taxi | Flight/train to Bagdogra/NJP | Train to NJP, then taxi | Flight to Bagdogra, then taxi |
| Coorg | Flight to Mangalore/Bangalore, then taxi/bus | Flight/train to Bangalore, then taxi/bus | Flight to Bangalore, then taxi/bus | Train/flight to Bangalore, then taxi/bus |
| Shimla | Flight/train to Chandigarh, then taxi/bus | Train/road to Shimla | Flight/train to Delhi, then train/road | Flight/train to Delhi, then train/road |
| Ooty | Flight/train to Coimbatore, then taxi/bus | Flight to Coimbatore, then taxi/bus | Flight/train to Chennai/Bangalore, then Ooty | Train to Coimbatore, then taxi/bus |
| Gangtok | Flight to Bagdogra, then taxi | Flight/train to Bagdogra/NJP, then taxi | Train/flight to NJP/Bagdogra, then taxi | Flight to Bagdogra, then taxi |
| Shillong | Flight to Guwahati, then taxi/bus | Flight/train to Guwahati, then taxi/bus | Flight/train to Guwahati, then taxi/bus | Flight to Guwahati, then taxi/bus |
| Nainital | Flight/train to Delhi, then taxi/bus | Train/road to Kathgodam/Nainital | Flight/train to Delhi, then taxi/bus | Flight/train to Delhi, then taxi/bus |
Highlights of the 10 Best Places in India
1. Ladakh
- Top Sights: Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, Hemis Monastery, Leh Palace19
- What to Do: Trekking, monastery visits, camel rides, high-altitude drives
- Best Time: June to September4
2. Manali
- Top Sights: Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, Hadimba Temple, Old Manali610
- What to Do: Paragliding, river rafting, trekking, café hopping
- Best Time: March to June6
3. Munnar
- Top Sights: Eravikulam National Park, Tea Museum, Echo Point, Blossom Park811
- What to Do: Tea plantation tours, hiking, wildlife spotting, boating
- Best Time: June to March8
4. Darjeeling
- Top Sights: Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Darjeeling Himalayan Railway112
- What to Do: Toy train rides, tea garden visits, trekking, monastery tours
- Best Time: March to June
5. Coorg
- Top Sights: Abbey Falls, Dubare Elephant Camp, coffee plantations, Raja’s Seat113
- What to Do: Plantation walks, river rafting, wildlife safaris, trekking
- Best Time: October to May
6. Shimla
- Top Sights: Mall Road, Kufri, Jakhoo Temple, Tara Devi Temple114
- What to Do: Toy train ride, shopping, temple visits, nature walks
- Best Time: March to June
7. Ooty
- Top Sights: Botanical Gardens, Ooty Lake, Doddabetta Peak, Rose Garden1
- What to Do: Boating, toy train rides, garden walks, mountain biking
- Best Time: March to June
8. Gangtok
- Top Sights: MG Marg, Rumtek Monastery, Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass115
- What to Do: Cable car rides, monastery visits, shopping, trekking
- Best Time: March to June
9. Shillong
- Top Sights: Umiam Lake, Elephant Falls, Shillong Peak, Mawphlang Sacred Forest1215
- What to Do: Boating, trekking, cultural tours, local cuisine
- Best Time: March to June
10. Nainital
- Top Sights: Naini Lake, Snow View Point, Naina Devi Temple, Mall Road115
- What to Do: Boating, cable car rides, shopping, hiking
- Best Time: March to June
Tips for First-Time Travelers
- Book in Advance: Summer is peak season; secure your transport and accommodation early.
- Pack Smart: Carry light woolens, rain gear, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes.
- Local Transport: Taxis, shared jeeps, and local buses are common in hill stations.
- Health & Safety: Stay hydrated, acclimatize in high-altitude areas, and follow local guidelines.
Final Thoughts
The 10 Best Places in India for a summer trip promise not only cool climates and scenic beauty but also a rich blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you’re traveling from Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, or Chennai, these 10 Best Places in India are accessible and perfect for a refreshing getaway. Start planning your 10 Best Places in India tour and make this summer unforgettable
