With mercury continuing to rise every single day, one needs a break from work and the hustle-bustle of city life. The feeling then is to go away to a ‘cool’ place for a few days and beat the scorching sun. In a large and diverse country like India, there is no dearth of options either.
From the snow-capped peaks in the Himalayas to the blue oceans, and from the valley of Kashmir to dense forests spread across India, you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to deciding where to spend your vacation.
As you scout for cool and sane places to visit this summer, here is our recommendation.
Leh-Ladakh
These two should rank high in your bucket list if you are someone who needs anywhere to go to beat the summer heat. With a myriad of interesting places to visit such as Zanskar Valley, Pangong Tso Lake, Khardung-La Pass, Spituk Gompa and Hemis National Park, one will certainly feel rejuvenated for the rest of the year.
Srinagar
You can always be sure of an amazing vacation here. Apart from the famed Kashmiri hospitality, the mighty mountain peaks, the breath-taking views, the stunning lakes, house-boats combine together to make it a perfect dream destination. However, do research on the prevalent security situation there before you take a call. Do visit Dal Lake, Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, Tomb of Zin-ul-Abidin, Jama Masjid, Hazratbal Mosque, Shankaracharya Hill and try out a Shikara ride in Dal Lake and shop from the floating markets.
Shillong
It is easily among the best options if you are considering a trip to northeast. The lush-green hills with pine trees, shimmering lakes, breathtaking waterfalls, and adventure activities on offer make Shillong a major tourist destination. As an added advantage, Shillong is the only hill station in India that is accessible from all sides. Do visit Ward’s Lake, Sweet Falls, Shillong Peak, Khasi Hills, Umiam Lake, Elephant Falls, Laitlum Canyons, and Mawjymbuin Caves. For adventure lovers, you can try waterfall rappelling at Elephant Falls, cave exploration, boating in Umiam Lake, and yacht riding at Umiam Lake Water Sports Complex.
Munnar
It is famous for its temperate climate and greenery of its vast tea plantations. An easy and laid back destination to spend your summer holidays. Do visit Kundala Lake, Echo Point, Elephant Lake, Anamudi Peak, Tata Tea Museum, Chithirapuram, Devikulam, and Chinnakanal when you are here. Also try living in a tree house, trekking to the echo point, mountain biking, Shikara ride in Kundala Lake, and elephant safari at the Carmelagiri elephant park.
Andaman Islands
Sunny skies, golden sand, turquoise waters, and virgin beaches make Andaman islands your perfect go-to destination during summer holidays – especially if you are considering a honeymoon trip around this time. In addition to the delicious food and stunning vista offered here, there are many places to visit in Andaman. Do visit, Cellular Jail National Memorial, Radhanagar Beach, Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex in Port Blair, Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, and Chidiya Tapu among others. You can also try banana boat riding, snorkeling, scuba diving, parasailing, undersea walking, glass-bottom boating, riding the seaplane, swimming with the elephant, and attending the light & sound show at the Cellular Jail here making this trip the trip of the lifetime.