The scorching summer heat is well on its way! While summers have their fair share of fun (read mangoes & longer days), you and I know that it’s the perfect excuse to go out on a holiday to a cooler place. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered because here are 5 getaways in India to escape the summer heat!
1. Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh
Known as mini Switzerland Of India, Khajjiar is a must visit to beat the heat in India with its beautiful snow-capped mountains including Mount Kailash!
The Khajjiar Lake and Ground has been made iconic in Kuch Kuch Hota Hai. It looks like a floating island! Opt for a cosy Airbnb for your accommodation here, starting only at Rs 1000 per night.
We recommend you make plans for Khajjiar soon and enjoy the scenic beauty and cool breezes along with a hot bowl of noodle soup!
Average temperature: 17-35 Degree Celsius, the days are warmer but evenings pleasantly cool.
How to get here: the Nearest airport is in Dharamshala, Gaggal Airport (120 km) and then take a taxi. You can also get here by bus from Chamba and Dalhousie (24 km) while the nearest railway station is in Pathankot (118 km) from where taxis will be available.
2. Gangtok, Sikkim
Visit Sikkim to revel in a cool atmosphere full of culture! Head to Gangtok here enclosed in statuesque mountains, paddy fields and orange orchards. Also, Indulge in a host of yummy dishes here like Momos, Thukpa, Wonton, Gyathuk, Thenthuk, Shah-Phaley, authentic soups etc!
Don’t forget to try Chang – a local, alcoholic beverage and fermented Soybean as well. The best getaway from the scorching heat ever, homestays here will give you a more personal touch over hotels.
Average temperature: 8-25 Degree Celsius, pleasant days and cold nights!
How to get here: the Nearest airport is in Bagdogra, West Bengal (124 km) from where you can take a taxi. The closest railway station is in New Jalpaiguri in Siliguri (148 km), take a taxi or a state-run bus from here to Gangtok.
3. Munnar, Kerala
Munnar is the ideal retreat for escaping summers. Just breathe in the crisp mountain air and watch the sunlight dance through acres of trees and tea plantations.
Head straight to the Eravikulam National Park and spot the Nilgiri Thar, a rare mountain goat found in this region. Visit the century-old Tea Museum and watch the sunset over the scenic Mattupetty Dam.
Gorge on delicious Appams, Idiyappams with egg curry and Puttu along with Kadala curry here! Opt to stay amongst the tea plantations, both hotels and Airbnbs are available.
Average Temperature: 22-35 Degrees Celsius. Hot days but pleasant nights.
How to get here: Nearest Airport is in Cochin, from there get a cab to Munnar. Buses are available from all major cities in Kerala to Munnar. Nearest railways station is in Aluva (110 km), take a bus or cab from here.
4. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Situated 10,000 feet high above Mean Sea Level and surrounded by lakes, this beautiful location is a feast for your senses.
There are loads of places to check out including Sela Pass, the beautiful Tawang Monastery, Taktsang Gompa, Gorichen Peak, Shonga-tser Lake and the mesmerizing Nuranang Waterfalls. Relish the Pika Pila made here by the Apatani tribe as well as bamboo shoot curries and Apong, rice beer!
Average Temperature: 20-35 Degree Celsius, warm days and cool nights.
How to get here: Nearest airport lies in Salonibari Airport, Tezpur, Assam (317 km), taxi again from here! Buses ply regularly from Guwahati and Bomdila but just make sure not to travel at night as the roads to Tawang are not in proper shape yet. The nearest railway station is in Rangapara in Tezpur.
5. Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh
Located in the Satpura range, there’s an ancient legend that the Pandava brothers visited Pachmarhi during their exile. We’re just suggesting a holiday!
A treasure indeed, this hill station is the perfect way to beat the heat. It has beautiful Buddhist caves and gorgeous waterfalls. There’s also the Satpura National Park which makes for the perfect family excursion.
Don’t forget to indulge in local dishes like Dal Bafla, Korma, Jalebis etc.
Average Temperature: 22-35 Degree Celsius
How to get here: Closest airports are in Bhopal and Jabalpur. From there, buses and cabs run to Pachmarhi. Closest Railway Station is Pipariya railway station.
Now you know where to escape the summer heat!