Explore India's Top 5 Summer Destinations: A Cool Escape from the Heat
As the scorching summer sun begins to blaze across the country, many of us start craving a retreat to cooler climes. Fortunately, India offers a plethora of picturesque destinations that not only provide respite from the heat but also promise unforgettable experiences. From serene hill stations to refreshing coastal getaways, here are the top five destinations to visit in India during the summer months
How to Get to Shila
By Air:
- Nearest Airport: Shila International Airport (SIA).
- Major Airlines: Shila Airways, FlyHigh, AirConnect.
- Transportation from Airport: Taxis, Airport Shuttles, Rental Cars.
By Train:
- Nearest Railway Station: Shila Central Station.
- Major Train Services: National Railways, Express Line.
- Transportation from Station: Local buses, taxis, bike rentals.
By Road:
- Major Highways: Highway 10 and Highway 25.
- Bus Services: Shila Express, City Bus Lines.
Luxury Hotels:
Shila Grand Hotel
- Location: Downtown Shila
- Price: $200 - $300 per night
- Amenities: Spa, Pool, Gourmet Restaurant, Free Wi-Fi
Mountain View Resort
- Location: Hillside
- Price: $250 - $400 per night
- Amenities: Infinity Pool, Guided Tours, Fine Dining
Mid-Range Hotels:
City Center Inn
- Location: City Center
- Price: $100 - $150 per night
- Amenities: Complimentary Breakfast, Free Parking, Gym
Riverside Hotel
- Location: Near Shila River
- Price: $120 - $180 per night
- Amenities: River Views, Restaurant, Free Wi-Fi
Budget Hotels:
Traveler's Lodge
- Location: Suburban Shila
- Price: $50 - $80 per night
- Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, Breakfast Included, Shared Kitchen
Backpackers Hostel
- Location: Near Bus Station
- Price: $20 - $40 per night
- Amenities: Dormitory and Private Rooms, Shared Lounge, Laundry Facilities
Places to Visit in Shila
Historical Sites:
Shila Fortress
- Highlights: Ancient architecture, Guided tours, Historical exhibits.
- Time Required: 2-3 hours
Old Town Shila
- Highlights: Cobblestone streets, Historic buildings, Local markets.
- Time Required: 3-4 hours
Natural Attractions:
Shila National Park
- Highlights: Hiking trails, Wildlife, Scenic viewpoints.
- Time Required: Full day
Crystal Lake
- Highlights: Boating, Picnic areas, Photography spots.
- Time Required: Half day
Cultural Attractions:
Shila Art Museum
- Highlights: Local and international art, Temporary exhibitions.
- Time Required: 2-3 hours
Cultural Center
- Highlights: Traditional music and dance performances, Workshops.
- Time Required: 2-3 hours
Adventure Activities:
Mountain Climbing
- Highlights: Guided climbs, Equipment rental.
- Time Required: Full day
River Rafting
- Highlights: Guided tours, Safety equipment provided.
- Time Required: Half day
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration
- Morning: Arrive and check into your hotel.
- Afternoon: Visit Old Town Shila and have lunch at a local restaurant.
- Evening: Explore the Shila Art Museum.
Day 2: Historical and Cultural Tour
- Morning: Visit Shila Fortress.
- Afternoon: Lunch at a downtown café, then head to the Cultural Center.
- Evening: Enjoy a traditional performance at the Cultural Center.
Day 3: Nature and Adventure
- Morning: Hike in Shila National Park.
- Afternoon: Picnic lunch at the park, then head to Crystal Lake for boating.
- Evening: Relax at your hotel or explore the local nightlife.
Day 4: Adventure Activities
- Morning: Mountain climbing adventure.
- Afternoon: Lunch at a mountain café, followed by river rafting.
- Evening: Departure or additional activities if you have more time.
Estimated Expenses
Travel Costs:
- Flight Tickets: $300 - $700 round trip (varies by location)
- Train Tickets: $50 - $150 round trip (varies by distance)
- Bus Tickets: $20 - $50 round trip
Accommodation Costs:
- Luxury Hotels: $200 - $400 per night
- Mid-Range Hotels: $100 - $180 per night
- Budget Hotels: $20 - $80 per night
Daily Expenses:
- Meals: $20 - $60 per day (varies by dining preference)
- Local Transportation: $10 - $30 per day
- Entry Fees and Activities: $20 - $50 per day
Total Estimated Cost for 4 Days:
- Luxury Trip: $1600 - $2500
- Mid-Range Trip: $800 - $1300
- Budget Trip: $300 - $600
How to Get to Munnar
By Air:
- Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (COK), approximately 110 km away.
- Transportation from Airport: Taxis, Prepaid Cabs, Rental Cars.
By Train:
- Nearest Railway Station: Aluva Railway Station, approximately 110 km away; Ernakulam Junction, approximately 130 km away.
- Transportation from Station: Taxis, Buses.
By Road:
- Major Highways: NH 85 connects Munnar to major cities.
- Bus Services: Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) buses, private buses.
Accommodation in Munnar
Luxury Hotels:
Spice Tree Munnar
- Location: Chinnakanal
- Price: ₹12,000 - ₹18,000 per night
- Amenities: Spa, Infinity Pool, Fine Dining, Nature Walks
The Panoramic Getaway
- Location: Chithirapuram
- Price: ₹10,000 - ₹15,000 per night
- Amenities: Rooftop Pool, Multi-cuisine Restaurant, Wellness Center
Mid-Range Hotels:
Abad Copper Castle
- Location: Kannan Devan Hills
- Price: ₹5,000 - ₹8,000 per night
- Amenities: Valley Views, Restaurant, Ayurvedic Spa
Tea County Munnar
- Location: KTDC Hill Resort, Munnar
- Price: ₹4,000 - ₹7,000 per night
- Amenities: Conference Hall, Restaurant, Trekking
Budget Hotels:
Green Ridge Holiday Home
- Location: Central Munnar
- Price: ₹2,000 - ₹4,000 per night
- Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, Complimentary Breakfast, Travel Desk
Misty Mountain Resort
- Location: Pallivasal
- Price: ₹1,500 - ₹3,000 per night
- Amenities: Restaurant, Garden, Kids' Play Area
Places to Visit in Munnar
Natural Attractions:
Eravikulam National Park
- Highlights: Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, Anamudi Peak.
- Time Required: 3-4 hours
Mattupetty Dam and Lake
- Highlights: Boating, Scenic Views.
- Time Required: 2-3 hours
Tea Gardens
- Highlights: Tea Plantations, Tea Museum.
- Time Required: 2-3 hours
Attukal Waterfalls
- Highlights: Trekking, Photography.
- Time Required: 2-3 hours
Adventure Activities:
Trekking and Hiking
- Popular Trails: Meesapulimala, Top Station.
- Time Required: Full day
Paragliding
- Highlights: Scenic flights over the hills.
- Time Required: Half day
Cultural and Historical Sites:
Munnar Tea Museum
- Highlights: History of Tea, Processing Demonstrations.
- Time Required: 1-2 hours
Lockhart Gap
- Highlights: Panoramic Views, Sunset Point.
- Time Required: 1-2 hours
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration
- Morning: Arrive at Cochin International Airport and transfer to Munnar.
- Afternoon: Check into your hotel and have lunch.
- Evening: Visit the Tea Museum and take a stroll through the tea gardens.
Day 2: Natural Attractions
- Morning: Visit Eravikulam National Park.
- Afternoon: Have lunch and head to Mattupetty Dam and Lake for boating.
- Evening: Relax at your hotel or explore local markets.
Day 3: Adventure and Sightseeing
- Morning: Go trekking to Meesapulimala or visit Top Station.
- Afternoon: Lunch at a hilltop café, then visit Attukal Waterfalls.
- Evening: Enjoy the sunset at Lockhart Gap.
Day 4: Cultural and Departure
- Morning: Try paragliding or take a nature walk.
- Afternoon: Visit a local spice plantation.
- Evening: Departure to Cochin International Airport or extend your stay.
Estimated Expenses
Travel Costs:
- Flight Tickets: ₹5,000 - ₹15,000 round trip (varies by location)
- Train Tickets: ₹500 - ₹2,000 round trip (varies by distance)
- Bus Tickets: ₹300 - ₹800 round trip
Accommodation Costs:
- Luxury Hotels: ₹10,000 - ₹18,000 per night
- Mid-Range Hotels: ₹4,000 - ₹8,000 per night
- Budget Hotels: ₹1,500 - ₹4,000 per night
Daily Expenses:
- Meals: ₹500 - ₹2,000 per day (varies by dining preference)
- Local Transportation: ₹300 - ₹1,000 per day
- Entry Fees and Activities: ₹500 - ₹1,500 per day
Total Estimated Cost for 4 Days:
- Luxury Trip: ₹50,000 - ₹80,000
- Mid-Range Trip: ₹20,000 - ₹35,000
- Budget Trip: ₹10,000 - ₹20,000
How to Get to Ladakh
By Air:
- Nearest Airport: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh.
- Major Airlines: Air India, GoAir, Vistara.
- Transportation from Airport: Taxis, Rental Cars.
By Road:
- Manali-Leh Highway: Open from June to September; approximately 475 km.
- Srinagar-Leh Highway: Open from May to October; approximately 434 km.
- Bus Services: HRTC and JKSRTC buses.
By Train:
- Nearest Railway Station: Jammu Tawi, approximately 700 km from Leh.
- Transportation from Station: Taxis, Buses.
Accommodation in Ladakh
Luxury Hotels:
The Grand Dragon Ladakh
- Location: Leh
- Price: ₹15,000 - ₹25,000 per night
- Amenities: Central Heating, Multi-cuisine Restaurant, Spa
The Zen Ladakh
- Location: Leh
- Price: ₹12,000 - ₹20,000 per night
- Amenities: Indoor Pool, Wellness Center, Panoramic Views
Mid-Range Hotels:
Hotel Singge Palace
- Location: Leh
- Price: ₹5,000 - ₹8,000 per night
- Amenities: Restaurant, Travel Desk, Free Wi-Fi
Hotel Ladakh Residency
- Location: Leh
- Price: ₹6,000 - ₹9,000 per night
- Amenities: Traditional Ladakhi Décor, Terrace, Garden
Budget Hotels:
Zostel Leh
- Location: Leh
- Price: ₹1,000 - ₹2,500 per night
- Amenities: Dormitory and Private Rooms, Shared Kitchen, Common Lounge
Rainbow Guest House
- Location: Leh
- Price: ₹1,500 - ₹3,000 per night
- Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, Garden, Mountain Views
Places to Visit in Ladakh
Natural Attractions:
Pangong Tso Lake
- Highlights: Crystal-clear blue waters, Scenic views.
- Time Required: Full day
Nubra Valley
- Highlights: Sand Dunes, Bactrian Camels, Monasteries.
- Time Required: 1-2 days
Tso Moriri Lake
- Highlights: Pristine lake, Bird Watching.
- Time Required: Full day
Magnetic Hill
- Highlights: Optical Illusion, Scenic Drive.
- Time Required: 1-2 hours
Adventure Activities:
Trekking
- Popular Trails: Markha Valley, Chadar Trek.
- Time Required: Multiple days
Biking
- Popular Routes: Leh to Khardung La, Leh to Pangong Tso.
- Time Required: Varies by route
Cultural and Historical Sites:
Thiksey Monastery
- Highlights: 12-story complex, Maitreya Buddha Statue.
- Time Required: 2-3 hours
Hemis Monastery
- Highlights: Largest monastery in Ladakh, Annual Hemis Festival.
- Time Required: 2-3 hours
Leh Palace
- Highlights: 9-story building, Panoramic views of Leh.
- Time Required: 1-2 hours
Shanti Stupa
- Highlights: White-domed stupa, Sunset views.
- Time Required: 1-2 hours
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration
- Morning: Arrive at Leh Airport and acclimatize.
- Afternoon: Check into your hotel and have lunch.
- Evening: Visit Leh Palace and Shanti Stupa.
Day 2: Cultural and Historical Tour
- Morning: Visit Thiksey Monastery.
- Afternoon: Have lunch and explore Hemis Monastery.
- Evening: Return to Leh and relax at your hotel.
Day 3: Natural Attractions
- Morning: Drive to Pangong Tso Lake.
- Afternoon: Enjoy a picnic by the lake and take photographs.
- Evening: Return to Leh or stay overnight in Pangong (depending on preference).
Day 4: Adventure and Departure
- Morning: Visit Nubra Valley via Khardung La.
- Afternoon: Enjoy camel rides and explore Diskit Monastery.
- Evening: Return to Leh and prepare for departure or extend your stay.
Estimated Expenses
Travel Costs:
- Flight Tickets: ₹6,000 - ₹15,000 round trip (varies by location)
- Bus Tickets: ₹1,000 - ₹3,000 round trip
- Car Rentals: ₹2,000 - ₹4,000 per day
Accommodation Costs:
- Luxury Hotels: ₹12,000 - ₹25,000 per night
- Mid-Range Hotels: ₹5,000 - ₹9,000 per night
- Budget Hotels: ₹1,000 - ₹3,000 per night
Daily Expenses:
- Meals: ₹500 - ₹2,000 per day (varies by dining preference)
- Local Transportation: ₹500 - ₹1,500 per day
- Entry Fees and Activities: ₹500 - ₹1,500 per day
Total Estimated Cost for 4 Days:
- Luxury Trip: ₹60,000 - ₹90,000
- Mid-Range Trip: ₹30,000 - ₹45,000
- Budget Trip: ₹15,000 - ₹25,000
How to Get to Coorg
By Air:
- Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport, approximately 160 km away; Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore, approximately 250 km away.
- Transportation from Airport: Taxis, Rental Cars.
By Train:
- Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Junction, approximately 120 km away.
- Transportation from Station: Taxis, Buses.
By Road:
- Major Highways: NH 275 connects Coorg to major cities.
- Bus Services: Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) buses, private buses.
Accommodation in Coorg
Luxury Hotels:
Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa
- Location: Madikeri
- Price: ₹15,000 - ₹25,000 per night
- Amenities: Spa, Infinity Pool, Fine Dining, Nature Walks
The Tamara Coorg
- Location: Kabbinakad
- Price: ₹20,000 - ₹30,000 per night
- Amenities: Spa, Yoga Pavilion, Coffee Plantation Tours
Mid-Range Hotels:
Club Mahindra Madikeri
- Location: Madikeri
- Price: ₹7,000 - ₹10,000 per night
- Amenities: Restaurant, Pool, Adventure Activities
Heritage Resort Coorg
- Location: Madikeri
- Price: ₹6,000 - ₹9,000 per night
- Amenities: Ayurvedic Spa, Outdoor Pool, Restaurant
Budget Hotels:
Coorg International Hotel
- Location: Madikeri
- Price: ₹2,000 - ₹4,000 per night
- Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, Restaurant, Pool
Hotel Coorg Regency
- Location: Madikeri
- Price: ₹1,500 - ₹3,000 per night
- Amenities: Complimentary Breakfast, Free Parking, Travel Desk
Places to Visit in Coorg
Natural Attractions:
Abbey Falls
- Highlights: Scenic waterfall, Coffee plantations.
- Time Required: 1-2 hours
Raja's Seat
- Highlights: Sunset views, Seasonal garden.
- Time Required: 1-2 hours
Dubare Elephant Camp
- Highlights: Elephant interactions, River rafting.
- Time Required: 2-3 hours
Nagarhole National Park
- Highlights: Wildlife safaris, Rich biodiversity.
- Time Required: Full day
Adventure Activities:
Trekking
- Popular Trails: Tadiandamol Peak, Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Time Required: Full day
River Rafting
- Location: Barapole River.
- Time Required: Half day
Cultural and Historical Sites:
Madikeri Fort
- Highlights: Historical architecture, Museum.
- Time Required: 1-2 hours
Omkareshwara Temple
- Highlights: Unique architecture, Sacred site.
- Time Required: 1-2 hours
Bylekuppe Tibetan Monastery (Golden Temple)
- Highlights: Tibetan culture, Monastic life.
- Time Required: 2-3 hours
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration
- Morning: Arrive and check into your hotel.
- Afternoon: Visit Abbey Falls and have lunch at a local restaurant.
- Evening: Explore Raja's Seat and enjoy the sunset.
Day 2: Nature and Wildlife
- Morning: Visit Dubare Elephant Camp.
- Afternoon: Have lunch and head to Nagarhole National Park for a wildlife safari.
- Evening: Return to your hotel and relax.
Day 3: Adventure and Cultural Tour
- Morning: Go trekking to Tadiandamol Peak.
- Afternoon: Lunch at a hilltop café, then visit the Madikeri Fort.
- Evening: Explore Omkareshwara Temple.
Day 4: Cultural and Departure
- Morning: Visit Bylekuppe Tibetan Monastery.
- Afternoon: Lunch at a nearby restaurant and explore local markets.
- Evening: Departure or additional activities if you have more time.
Estimated Expenses
Travel Costs:
- Flight Tickets: ₹5,000 - ₹15,000 round trip (varies by location)
- Train Tickets: ₹500 - ₹2,000 round trip (varies by distance)
- Bus Tickets: ₹300 - ₹800 round trip
Accommodation Costs:
- Luxury Hotels: ₹15,000 - ₹30,000 per night
- Mid-Range Hotels: ₹6,000 - ₹10,000 per night
- Budget Hotels: ₹1,500 - ₹4,000 per night
Daily Expenses:
- Meals: ₹500 - ₹2,000 per day (varies by dining preference)
- Local Transportation: ₹300 - ₹1,000 per day
- Entry Fees and Activities: ₹500 - ₹1,500 per day
Total Estimated Cost for 4 Days:
- Luxury Trip: ₹70,000 - ₹1,00,000
- Mid-Range Trip: ₹30,000 - ₹45,000
- Budget Trip: ₹15,000 - ₹25,000
How to Get to Andaman and Nicobar Islands
By Air:
- Nearest Airport: Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair.
- Major Airlines: Air India, IndiGo, Vistara, GoAir.
- Transportation from Airport: Taxis, Prepaid Cabs, Rental Cars.
By Sea:
- From Mainland India: Ships operate from Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam to Port Blair. The journey takes about 3-4 days.
- Transportation from Port: Taxis, Auto Rickshaws, Buses.
Accommodation in Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Luxury Resorts:
Taj Exotica Resort & Spa
- Location: Havelock Island
- Price: ₹25,000 - ₹40,000 per night
- Amenities: Private Villas, Spa, Water Sports, Infinity Pool
Barefoot at Havelock
- Location: Havelock Island
- Price: ₹15,000 - ₹25,000 per night
- Amenities: Eco-friendly Cottages, Scuba Diving, Ayurvedic Spa
Mid-Range Hotels:
SeaShell, Havelock
- Location: Havelock Island
- Price: ₹7,000 - ₹12,000 per night
- Amenities: Beachfront Property, Restaurant, Bar
Symphony Palms Beach Resort
- Location: Havelock Island
- Price: ₹6,000 - ₹10,000 per night
- Amenities: Private Beach, Restaurant, Bar
Budget Hotels:
Aashiaanaa Residency Inn
- Location: Port Blair
- Price: ₹2,000 - ₹4,000 per night
- Amenities: Complimentary Breakfast, Free Wi-Fi, Travel Desk
Blue Bird Resort
- Location: Havelock Island
- Price: ₹3,000 - ₹5,000 per night
- Amenities: Garden, Restaurant, Free Wi-Fi
Places to Visit in Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Beaches and Islands:
Radhanagar Beach
- Location: Havelock Island
- Highlights: White sand, Clear waters, Sunset views.
- Time Required: 2-3 hours
Elephant Beach
- Location: Havelock Island
- Highlights: Snorkeling, Water sports.
- Time Required: 3-4 hours
Neil Island
- Highlights: Coral reefs, Natural rock formations.
- Time Required: Full day
Ross Island
- Highlights: Historical ruins, Scenic views.
- Time Required: Half day
Adventure Activities:
Scuba Diving
- Popular Spots: Havelock Island, Neil Island.
- Time Required: 2-3 hours
Snorkeling
- Popular Spots: Elephant Beach, North Bay.
- Time Required: 1-2 hours
Sea Walking
- Popular Spots: North Bay, Havelock Island.
- Time Required: 1-2 hours
Cultural and Historical Sites:
Cellular Jail National Memorial
- Location: Port Blair
- Highlights: Historical significance, Light and Sound Show.
- Time Required: 2-3 hours
Anthropological Museum
- Location: Port Blair
- Highlights: Tribal history, Cultural artifacts.
- Time Required: 1-2 hours
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration
- Morning: Arrive at Port Blair and check into your hotel.
- Afternoon: Visit the Cellular Jail National Memorial.
- Evening: Attend the Light and Sound Show at Cellular Jail.
Day 2: Beach and Water Activities
- Morning: Travel to Havelock Island.
- Afternoon: Visit Radhanagar Beach.
- Evening: Relax at your resort or explore local markets.
Day 3: Adventure and Exploration
- Morning: Go snorkeling or scuba diving at Elephant Beach.
- Afternoon: Lunch at a beachfront café, then visit Neil Island.
- Evening: Return to Havelock Island.
Day 4: Cultural and Departure
- Morning: Travel back to Port Blair.
- Afternoon: Visit the Anthropological Museum.
- Evening: Departure from Port Blair or additional activities if you have more time.
Estimated Expenses
Travel Costs:
- Flight Tickets: ₹6,000 - ₹15,000 round trip (varies by location)
- Ship Tickets: ₹3,000 - ₹10,000 round trip (varies by class)
Accommodation Costs:
- Luxury Hotels: ₹15,000 - ₹40,000 per night
- Mid-Range Hotels: ₹6,000 - ₹12,000 per night
- Budget Hotels: ₹2,000 - ₹5,000 per night
Daily Expenses:
- Meals: ₹500 - ₹2,500 per day (varies by dining preference)
- Local Transportation: ₹500 - ₹1,500 per day
- Entry Fees and Activities: ₹500 - ₹2,000 per day
Total Estimated Cost for 4 Days:
- Luxury Trip: ₹80,000 - ₹1,20,000
- Mid-Range Trip: ₹40,000 - ₹60,000
- Budget Trip: ₹20,000 - ₹30,000
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