7 super cool places must visit this Summer

Auli, Uttarakhand

Rishikesh is a small serene town famous for meditation and yoga. It is an ideal destination for adventures like Rafting, trekking, rock - climbing, etc. About 250km from Rishikesh established one of India's most popular destinations. While you may be able to hit the slopes with ski gear, Auli has as much to offer in summers and in winters. Temperatures here are expected to range between 5 degrees Celcius and 20 degrees Celsius.

Nearest airport: Jolly Grant Airport Dehradun; direct flights from New Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru.

Gangtok, Sikkim

Sikkim is the largest city in Gangtok. Sikkim's capital is all about natural beauty; lakes and falls, dense trails, and a direct view of Mount Kanchenjunga from various points across the city. Hop on a candle car on the famous Gangtok ropeway to get a bird's eye view of the city palisaded by towering peaks. Temperatures can dip as low as 17 degrees Celcius, so pack some layering.

Nearest airport: Pakyong airport; direct flights from New Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, etc.

Hemis, Ladak

Even in winter, temperatures in Leh hardly ever cross 17°C. But as the snow melts and the elusive cats of Hemis lunge into hiding, the slopes of the village welcome a new attraction: wildflowers and singing birds. Consider taking the popular Markha trek, which passes through the park during summer, or witness the Hemis Festival at Hemis Gompa. The annual religious event celebrates the victory of good over evil and sees locals reveling in Cham dance, drinking chang, and dressing up in vibrant clothing.

Nearest airport: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport; direct flights from New Delhi, Mumbai, and Srinagar

Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

Hike up to Dolphin’s Nose and watch mist curl up across the open valley. It’s also the time for flower exhibits and summer shows in the hill station. Boat rides are available at Kodai Lake, and picnics can be enjoyed at Bryant Park. Temperatures here are currently in the early 20s and are expected to dip lower as the month progresses. Nearest airport: Madurai airport; direct flights from New Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, etc.

Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir The lesser-known town of Pahalgam doesn’t have as much tourist pull as Gulmarg or Sonmarg in Jammu and Kashmir, which is exactly why you should go. Go trekking up into the Aru Wildlife Sanctuary during the day or enjoy the single-digit temperatures at night. does river raft down the Lidder River or pony riding across the meadows?

Nearest airport: Sheikh Ul Alam International Airport Srinagar; direct flights from New Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, etc.

Sangla, Himachal Pradesh

Located by the sparkling waters of the Baspa River, Sangla Valley is a quiet retreat. Peak afternoon temperatures are currently at 9°C here. Walk through the many meadows, immerse in local Tibetan culture, and don’t forget to feast your soul on the saffron farms and apple orchards of Sangla.

Nearest airport: Shimla, Bhuntar Airport Kullu-Manali; direct flights from New Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, etc.

Sonamarg, Jammu & Kashmir Sonamarg is known for its jaw-dropping views of the glaciers, lakes, and meadows carpeted with flowers. The weather in this mountainous region is always cool, just right to go trekking across the different lakes or to ride a pony up to the Thajiwas glacier. Nearest airport: Sheikh Ul Alam International Airport Srinagar; direct flights from New Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, etc.

Srinagar, Jammu, and Kashmir Srinagar are perfect year-round, but the pleasant 15 degree-atmosphere right now makes it even more enjoyable. The vivid green of chinar and deodar contrasts the pristine waters of the Dal Lake here. The tulip festival of Srinagar takes place in April, and you can also visit various historical sites or enjoy the city’s breathtaking vistas aboard a houseboat. Nearest airport: Sheikh Ul Alam International Airport, Srinagar; direct flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, etc.

Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh

Tawang is located along the borders of Bhutan and Tibet. Even at its hottest, the district doesn’t see the mercury rise beyond 23°C. The largest Buddhist monastery in India—the Tawang Monastery—is located here. Tawang is stunning with its crystal clear lakes and gushing waterfalls. Nearest airport: Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport Guwahati; direct flights from Mumbai, New Delhi, Bengaluru, etc.