7 Best Hill Stations to Visit in India in Summers

Indian summer is synonymous with scorching heat. But worry not! India is diverse in every way—language, culture, and landscape. There is a plethora of escapes waiting to keep you cool and lively. Whether you wish to head to snow-capped mountains, delve into the arms of lush green hill stations, or soak your feet in serene beaches, India has an ideal summer vacation for you.

May is often the time for travel escapades in India, coinciding with children’s yearly holidays. My favorite places to visit during the summer are the mountains. Nothing beats a refreshing mountain retreat that offers a welcome break from the scorching summer heat. While beaches are also a good option, my preference leans towards the hills. Let’s explore some of the best hill stations to visit in India during the summer.

7 Top Places to Visit in India in Summers 

Mount Abu, Rajasthan

Rajasthan’s sole hill station, Mount Abu, offers a perfect escape from the scorching summer temperatures. Nestled in the Aravali Range, the largest state in India boasts a splendid landscape with pleasant weather year-round.

During the summer months, numerous tourists from neighboring states like Gujarat and Rajasthan flock to Mount Abu to seek respite from the heat. This hill station offers diverse attractions, including lakes, temples, and trekking points.

Key places to visit include Guru Shikhar, the highest point in the Aravalli Range; Achalgarh Fort, offering picturesque treks to the meadows; and Dilwara Temple, renowned for its intricately carved ambiance.

Coorg, Karnataka:

If you’re seeking to escape the crowds and discover an offbeat destination this summer, head to Coorg, the jewel of Karnataka and fondly called the ‘Scotland of India.’ While the best time to visit Coorg is typically October to March, don’t underestimate the charm of a summer getaway here.

Coorg offers beautiful hills blanketed in lush greenery and a gentle summer breeze that soothes the soul. Imagine picturesque waterfalls cascading amidst fragrant coffee plantations—the magic of Coorg is truly indescribable.

Must-visit attractions in Coorg include the majestic Abbey Falls, the serene Namdroling Monastery (Golden Temple), the Dubare elephant camp, and my personal favorite, the Talakaveri temple in Virajpet.

Coorg remains a hidden gem waiting for you to explore its secrets. You’ll return with memories to cherish and a heart filled with tranquility.

Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir:

Ladakh, often referred to as the ‘Roof of the World,’ has been calling to my travel-weary soul. Its summer beauty holds a unique charm—imagine snow-capped peaks glistening under the warm sun, with every breath you take feeling clean and crisp. In summer, you won’t even notice the heat.

Set against an expansive backdrop that stretches as far as the eye can see, Ladakh is best explored during the summer months, when temperatures are comfortably mild compared to the extreme cold of winter. Must-visit destinations in Ladakh include the enchanting Nubra Valley with its dunes, and Pangong Lake, known for its shimmering turquoise waters.

If you seek serenity this summer, look no further than Ladakh. Embrace its extraordinary magic and book your tickets to experience a destination unlike any other.

Darjeeling, West Bengal:

Dubbed the ‘Queen of Hills,’ Darjeeling offers a blend of adventure and tranquility. Nestled in the Eastern Himalayas, this hill station blooms beautifully in May. From the stunning panorama of emerald green hills to the majestic Kanchenjunga range etched against the sky, Darjeeling exudes colonial charm and serves as a refreshing escape from summer heat.

Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through sprawling tea estates, pausing to savor freshly brewed tea—a UNESCO World Heritage site testimony to its unparalleled beauty. The picture-perfect vistas provide ample opportunities for capturing memorable photos. A must-do experience is witnessing the dawn break over the Kanchenjunga range—a mesmerizing display of colors as the sun’s first rays kiss your face and snow-capped mountains captivate your gaze, leaving you speechless.

Mussoorie, Uttarakhand

Mussoorie hill station in Uttarakhand

There’s a place tucked away in Uttarakhand that holds a piece of my heart—Mussoorie. More than just a hill station, it’s a sanctuary for the soul, nestled amidst the breathtaking views of the Garhwal Himalayas. The magic of Mussoorie is truly surreal.

My love affair with this hill station began long before I set foot here, through the pages of Ruskin Bond’s novels. The way Mr. Bond portrays the beauty of Mussoorie in his stories is simply out of this world, and the place lives up to every setting he describes. The best time to visit Mussoorie is undoubtedly during the summers when the sun paints the mountains with vibrant green hues and offers a welcome respite from the heat below. Located just about 35 km from the plains of Dehradun, this quaint hill station beckons you to stay forever.

A must-experience here is a leisurely stroll along the Mall Road, the heart of Mussoorie, indulging in local delicacies, and visiting the Company Garden for a day of tranquility. Simply enjoying a quiet cup of tea amidst the backdrop of snow-capped mountains is enough to soothe your soul. This summer, I’m setting my sights on Mussoorie once again.

Ooty in Udhagamandalam, Tamil Nadu

Best Places to Visit in Ooty

Did you know we have our own slice of Switzerland in India? It’s called Ooty, and visiting this quaint hill station during summer is a must. Ooty enjoys pleasant weather year-round, offering a place where the climate is mild, the air crisp, and the landscape picture-perfect.

Bid farewell to sweltering summer heat as you arrive at this beautiful mountain retreat, blessed with a treasure trove of natural beauty. From diverse flora and fauna to sprawling tea and coffee estates, Ooty’s charm is irresistible.

Key attractions include Dodabetta Peak, offering breathtaking panoramic views from Ooty’s highest point. The Government Botanical Garden is a haven for nature enthusiasts, bursting with vibrant blooms and lush landscapes. The dreamy Pine Tree Forests hold a special place in my heart; a stroll among them feels like nature is gently blessing you with joy and peace.

Ooty is more than just sightseeing; it’s about slowing down, breathing in the fresh mountain air, and immersing yourself in the beauty of Mother Earth. This summer, I’m trading the ordinary for the extraordinary.

Thekkady, Kerala

No list of hill stations to visit in India during summer is complete without mentioning God’s own country, Kerala. A haven of natural beauty, Thekkady stands out with its diverse landscape of lush rainforests and exotic flora and fauna.

While I’ve explored Munnar and the Ashtamudi backwaters in Kerala, Thekkady’s charm surpasses them all. This quaint hill station offers unique regional experiences like Kalaripayattu and Kathakali, enriching your visit with flavors you won’t find elsewhere in Kerala.

For wildlife enthusiasts, Thekkady is a paradise. The Periyar Tiger Reserve safari stole my heart—the thrill of spotting wildlife from a jeep amidst thick forests is unforgettable. The sumptuous food we enjoyed after the safari was heavenly. The verdant forests of Thekkady are home to unseen birds and large groups of elephants, catering to every nature enthusiast’s delight.

Conclusion

Summer calls out with the allure of escape, and India unfolds a tapestry of destinations eager to whisk you away from the heat. Forget about traffic jams and crowds. This summer, delve into the heart of hidden gems and rediscover the magic of India’s hills.

Go beyond the guidebooks and uncover the enchantment of the mountains. So, pack your bags for an adventure—India’s captivating summer havens await!