A diverse country, India boasts varying climates, traditions, and cultures. From snow-capped mountains to deep valleys, colonial architecture to lush forests, and sprawling plantations to botanical gardens, summer vacation destinations in India offers many destinations to explore every season. Each place promises a scenic retreat, captivating the eyes and the soul. 

During the summer vacation, India transforms into a paradise for travelers. From the charming hill stations of Shimla and Manali in the north, to the serene Mount Abu in Rajasthan, a multitude of destinations beckon. Nestled amidst breathtaking mountains, Nainital and Darjeeling offer stunning scenery and a cool respite. If you seek captivating beauty, Kashmir, Sikkim, and Ladakh in the Himalayas will leave you spellbound with their snow-capped peaks, vibrant cultures, and adventure opportunities.. These destinations are ideal for families and friends looking to unwind and create lasting memories. Among these, the best places to visit in India during summer vacation with your family and friends include

Shimla & Manali ( Bus)

A trip to Shimla and Manali can be combined or visited individually. Shimla, known as the “Queen of The Hills,” boasts large farmlands, a serene atmosphere, and stunning hilltop views. Manali, the resort town nestled in Himachal Pradesh, boasts majestic hills, hidden gems, and enticing trekking routes. In contrast, the hot and humid northern plains can be quite unpleasant during summer. This is precisely why Shimla and Manali are popular summer destinations, offering a refreshing escape from the scorching heat.

A 3-day trip to Shimla followed by 3 days in Manali is ideal for rejuvenation. Families often choose these destinations for summer vacations due to the variety of adventurous activities available, such as trekking, camping, river rafting, and paragliding, catering to adults and children. Holiday packages are available for both destinations, separately or as a combined package.

When traveling to Shimla and Manali, several transportation options are available:

• By Road: Public buses from Delhi to Shimla cost around 500 rupees per person and take approximately 10 hours. Bus packages range from 700 to 900 rupees per person for a trip from Delhi to Manali, with Volvo buses costing between 1300 to 1500 rupees per person.

• By Train: A popular option to reach Shimla is the toy train from Kalka to Shimla, taking 5 hours. Trains from Delhi to Kalka in 3rd class AC cost around 500 rupees per person. For Manali, the nearest railway stations are Chandigarh or Ambala.

• By Flight: While flights to Shimla can be expensive, costing around 3000 rupees per person for a Delhi to Shimla flight that takes over an hour, Shimla’s airport is conveniently located 22 km from the main city. The nearest airport to Manali is the Kullu Manali airport, 50 km from old Manali.

Day 1: Shimla

• Arrive in Shimla by toy train, enjoying the scenic journey.
• Visit Tara Devi Temple, located 15 km from Shimla, offering panoramic views. 
• Explore the nearby Dhoodari Temple, accessible by a short walk.
• Discover the Indian Institute of Advanced Studies (Viceregal Lodge), known for its architecture and botanical garden.

Day 2: Shimla

• Begin your day with a visit to Jhaku Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, accessible by a ropeway ride with stunning views.
• Spend the evening shopping at Mall Road, a bustling street with shops and eateries.
• Explore Lower Bazar for budget-friendly shopping and local cuisine.
• Relax at the Ridge, a popular open area near Mall Road.

Day 3: Shimla to Kufri and then to Manali

• Depart early from Shimla to Kufri, a 45-minute drive, for adventure activities like bungee jumping and Burma Bridge.
• Travel from Kufri to Manali, a 7-hour journey offering stunning views.
• Check-in at a hotel in Manali and unwind, enjoying the scenic beauty.

Day 4: Explore Manali

• Visit the Hadimba Devi Temple, with affordable breakfast options along the way.
• Explore the bustling Mall Road in Manali and visit the serene Manu Temple.
• Spend peaceful moments at Van Vihar National Park.

Day 5: Excursion to Rohtang Pass

• Journey to Rohtang Pass, 10 kilometers from old Manali, for thrilling adventures like off-road biking and horse riding.
• En route, visit Nehru Kund, known for its refreshing water and peaceful ambiance.

Day 6: Discover Solang Valley

• Drive 20 minutes from old Manali to Solang Valley, offering breathtaking views and exciting activities like paragliding.
• Spend the day exploring the valley and enjoying its natural beauty.

Day 7: Departure from Manali

• Check out from your hotel in Manali, concluding your perfect summer vacation in Shimla and Manali.

Note: Prices mentioned are approximate and subject to change.

Budget:

For a family package including a 3-day, 2-night stay in a four-star hotel with breakfast and transportation to and from Shimla, the cost is 9000 rupees per person. For couples, this amount reduces to 8500 rupees per person. Solo travelers can expect to pay around 6300 rupees without a package. A 4-day, 3-night family package to Manali costs 5500 rupees per person, while a couple’s trip is around 7000 rupees per person. For solo travelers on a budget, a 2-day trip to Manali can cost approximately 5000 rupees.

Ooty ( Kedarnath Travel Guide)

Ooty, also known as Udagamandalam, is a popular hill station in Tamil Nadu, renowned for its natural beauty and serene atmosphere. It is a favorite destination for nature enthusiasts, offering stunning scenic views and pleasant weather throughout the year, making it an ideal choice for a family summer vacation.

Ooty is well-connected to major southern cities like Bangalore, Mysore, and Coimbatore, which are accessible via airports and railway stations. Direct public AC and non-AC buses are available from these cities to Ooty. Another option is the toy train journey from Coimbatore to Ooty, providing a unique experience through tea plantations, lush forests, and tunnels.

Ooty: A 3-day itinerary

Day 1: Local sightseeing

• Begin your journey at the historic Botanical Garden, open from 7:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., showcasing stunning flora. The entry fee is 50 rupees per person. 
• Visit the Ooty Boat House for various boating options and an adventure park, with an entry fee of 15 rupees for adults. 
• The Rose Garden, blooming from April to September, offers vibrant flowers. 
• Doddabetta Peak provides a panoramic view of Ooty. 
• Conclude your day with local shopping at the Upper Bazaar.

Day 2: Kunnur route

• Explore the Kunnur road, famous for its viewpoints offering breathtaking mountain and valley views. 
• Dolphin’s Nose Point and Sim’s Park are must-visit spots. 
• Lamp’s Rock offers a remarkable viewpoint with a 10-minute trek. 
• The evening can be spent boarding the toy train from Ooty to Coonoor, offering a scenic journey.

Day 3: Pykara route

• Visit the Pine Forest for horse riding and the 6th-mile shooting point. 
• The Wenlock Down Natural Trail offers breathtaking landscapes with a nominal entry fee. 
• Explore the Pykara waterfall near the Pykara boathouse.
• Visit the hidden gem, St. Monica Lake.

Day 4: Safari Exploration

For an extended trip, visit the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, offering different Safari routes. The Safari price ranges from 2500 to 6000 rupees.

Budget:

A three-day itinerary is sufficient for a trip to Ooty, with hotel rooms costing around 2000 rupees per night for two adults. Meals can amount to 700 rupees per person per day and transportation costs for a four-seater car range from 5000 to 6000 rupees. Miscellaneous expenses can be around 500 rupees. Therefore, the total cost per person for an average trip to Ooty ranges from 8500 to 9000 rupees. Budget-friendly travelers can reduce this to 4000 to 5000 rupees by choosing hostels and public transport.

Kashmir

Kashmir, nestled in the Himalayas, offers breathtaking views of green valleys, snow-capped mountains, beautiful gardens, and stunning lakes. Trekking to the high peaks of Kashmir is a thrilling experience for adventure lovers, while the region’s natural beauty makes it a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Beyond its landscapes, Kashmir is renowned for its warm hospitality, adding to its allure as an ideal tourist destination.

To reach the picturesque paradise of Kashmir, your starting point is Srinagar, which can be accessed by either air or road. Direct flights to Srinagar are available from major cities like Mumbai and Delhi, offering a convenient and time-saving travel option. For those looking for a more economical mode of transportation, reaching Jammu first and then taking public buses or shared taxis to Kashmir is a viable alternative. These buses and taxis are available at affordable rates, usually around 700 to 800 rupees, and the journey takes approximately 6 to 7 hours, offering scenic views along the way.

Kashmir: A 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar

Upon arrival at Srinagar airport, located 25 km from the main city, you can book a private taxi to reach your hotel, costing around 1200 rupees on average.

Day 2: Sonmarg Exploration

Visit Sonmarg, known for its trekking trails and stunning landscapes, particularly beautiful during the summer season.

Day 3: Day Trip to Gulmarg

Reach Gulmarg by car, ropeway, or pony, and explore its attractions, including the picturesque Drung Waterfall.

Day 4: Discover Srinagar

Enjoy a boat ride on Dal Lake, visit Shankaracharya temple, and explore beautiful gardens like Shalimar, Chashma Shahi, Tulip, and Nishad.

Day 5: Houseboat Experience

Experience a stay in a houseboat, offering a unique and luxurious accommodation option in Kashmir.

Day 6: Excursion to Pahalgam

Book a private taxi or train to Pahalgam and explore its natural beauty, including the Aaru Valley and Betab Valley.

Day 7: Departure from Pahalgam

Depart from Pahalgam and return to Srinagar. En route, visit Kesar farm in Pampore.

Budget:

• Accommodation: Off-season rates range from 2000 to 2500 rupees per night for two adults, while on-season rates can reach 3500 to 4000 rupees.
• Meals: Budget around 500 rupees per person per day.
• Transportation: Budget approximately 8000 rupees for the entire trip.
• Package Options: Consider a package for a more cost-effective trip, ranging from 12000 to 20000 rupees per person.
• Solo Travelers: Shared taxis can help reduce costs, with solo travel expenses ranging from 11000 rupees.

Experience the beauty and charm of Kashmir with this comprehensive itinerary, designed to make the most of your visit to this breathtaking destination.

Sikkim

Sikkim, nestled in the Eastern Himalayas, boasts a rich culture and biodiversity that attract tourists. Known for its pilgrimage sites, natural beauty, landscapes, lakes, and lush green valleys, Sikkim offers a vibrant culture and heritage.

To reach Gangtok in Sikkim, travelers can start from Siliguri in West Bengal. Public buses shared taxis, and cabs are available from Siliguri to Gangtok, with bus fares of around 180 rupees per person and shared taxi fares of around 300 rupees per person, taking approximately 5 to 6 hours. Another option is to travel from Bagdogra in West Bengal, where a bus ride to Gangtok costs 50 rupees per person, or opt for a private taxi at 3000 rupees.

Day 1: Arrival and Local Sightseeing in Gangtok

• Upon arrival in Gangtok from Bagdogra or Siliguri, start your exploration with a visit to the vibrant MG Road market, offering a variety of eateries at reasonable prices. 
• Head to Hanuman Tok, a temple with numerous mythological stories, reachable within 25 minutes. 
• Explore Ganesh Tok and the nearby Himalayan Zoological Park, where the entry fee is 25 rupees for adults and Rs 10 for children, with entry closing at 3:00 p.m. 
• Don’t miss the plant conservatory, adorned with blooming flowers and an entry ticket of 30 rupees per person. 
• Nearby, visit the picturesque Lhasa waterfalls. 
• Conclude your day with a visit to the Tashi viewpoint, with an entry fee of 10 rupees per person, and the Gonjang and Namgyal monasteries.

Day 2: More of Gangtok

• Start your day with a visit to the serene Enchey Monastery, followed by a trip to the Rumtek Monastery, a significant religious site in Sikkim. 
• In the afternoon, explore the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and the nearby Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, home to rare wildlife species like the red panda. 
• End your day with a visit to the beautiful Banjhakri Falls and Energy Park, known for its lush greenery and tranquil ambiance.

Day 3: Excursion to Lachung

• Embark on a scenic drive to Lachung, a picturesque village in North Sikkim. 
• En route, stop at Singhik View Point and Seven Sisters Waterfalls for breathtaking views. 
• Upon reaching Lachung, visit the stunning Yumthang Valley, also known as the Valley of Flowers, famous for its vibrant blooms. 
• Relax and enjoy the serene beauty of the valley before heading back to Gangtok.

Day 4: Journey to Lachen and Gurudongmar Lake

• To make the most of your day in North Sikkim, rise with the sun and embark on a drive to Lachen. Nestled amidst breathtaking scenery, this charming village awaits, promising another taste of North Sikkim’s beauty.
• Visit the sacred Gurudongmar Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world, known for its pristine beauty and spiritual significance. 
• Please note that visiting Gurudongmar Lake requires obtaining an inner line permit. 
• Having soaked in the beauty of the lake, you can also visit the Lachen Monastery before heading back to Gangtok, bringing your unforgettable Sikkim adventure to a close.

Budget:

For a 4-day 3-night trip to Sikkim, a package typically costs between 4500 to 7000 rupees per person. It’s advisable to consult a travel agent, especially for a trip to Lachen, where a permit is required. In Gangtok, the average hotel price is around 1500 rupees for two adults per night. Avoid hotels in North Sikkim, as they tend to be more expensive. Budget around 500 to 600 rupees per day for meals per person. Transportation costs range from 2000 to 2500 rupees per day. Therefore, for 2 days and 1 night in Gangtok including hotel, meals, and transportation, you can expect to spend around 4000 rupees per person.

Conclusion

A summer vacation trip transcends a simple getaway; it’s a precious opportunity to unwind, forge unforgettable memories, and solidify bonds with loved ones. Whether you choose to explore the serene hills of Nainital, immerse yourself in the lush landscapes of Shimla and Manali, or delve into the cultural richness of Mount Abu, each destination promises a unique experience. These trips extend far beyond mere sightseeing. They offer a chance to rejuvenate your mind and body, a welcome escape from the daily grind. So, pack your bags, embark on a journey of discovery, and create a summer vacation that will forever be etched in your memory.. Embark on a summer vacation to India’s top destinations with your family and friends. These trips strengthen bonds and provide moments of joy and relaxation for everyone involved.