With Summer 2026 around the corner, it’s time to start planning that much needed vacation. As the sun starts to blaze the Indian subcontinent, the warmer weather typically leads to people seeking out cooler destinations, calming beaches, and mountains for higher elevation escapades. In this detailed guide, we have compiled the best places to visit this summer across the India subcontinent and have created destinations for a revitalizing vacation. Our selection of destinations are sure to satisfy the adrenaline junky and the people looking for some time to relax.
Top 8 Hill Stations to Escape Summer Heat
1. Manali
For those who love mountains and snow, Manali is one of the best places to visit in the summers in India. Located in the lap of the mighty Himalayas and the flowing Beas River, Manali is famous among families, students and adventure lovers from May to June, when the temperature is between 10° to 25°C. The Beas River offers rafting, and Solang valley has paragliding. You can also take a drive to Rohtang Pass. The clear skies, cool temperatures, and start of the adventure activities in the region, Manali is one of the best summer holiday destinations to visit in 2026. The Kullu-Manali Airport located in Bhuntar is the nearest airport.
2. Shimla
Shimla is a great destination for summer holidays which also reports beautiful weather and mountains. In May-June when the temps are between 15°C and 28°C it provides respite from the heat which is common in the Indian plains. Popular points of interest are Mall Poad, The Ridge, Kufri, and the Kalka-Shimla Toy Train. The cool air and the colonial architecture draw families and honeymooners. To visit Shimla in May and June for summer break is ideal, though March-April also has great weather though the crowds are a bit less. The nearest airport is at Jubbarhatti and for train travel Chandigarh is the nearby major station.
3. Darjeeling
Darjeeling stands out among places to visit in summer in India for its tea estates and sunrise views over Kanchenjunga. Summer temperatures stay between 11°C and 19°C, making sightseeing comfortable. Visitors explore Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, and enjoy rides on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. The ideal travel months are April to June when skies remain clear for mountain views. Bagdogra Airport is the Nearest airport, located about 70 km away.
4. Ooty
Ooty is a popular South Indian summer retreat known for lakes, gardens, and rolling hills. With temperatures between 15°C and 25°C during May-June, it provides a pleasant climate for boating at Ooty Lake and exploring the Botanical Gardens. The Nilgiri Mountain Railway is another highlight. The best time to visit Ooty is April to June for summer holidays. The nearest airport is Coimbatore International Airport, around 85 km away.
5. Leh-Ladakh
Ladakh is one of the most searched best summer holiday destinations for 2026 due to its dramatic landscapes and high mountain passes. Summer temperatures range between 5°C and 20°C. Travellers explore Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, Leh Palace, and Khardung La Pass. The best time to visit is June to September, as roads remain open and weather conditions support road trips. Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh connects major cities.
6. Munnar
Munnar is a refreshing summer destination in South India, known for tea plantations and misty hills. Temperatures range between 15°C and 25°C in May-June, making it suitable for sightseeing and nature walks. Visitors explore Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, and scenic viewpoints. The ideal months to visit Munnar are April to June. The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, about 110 km away.
7. Rishikesh
Rishikesh is one of the most exciting places to visit I summer in India for travellers who want adventure along with peaceful surroundings. Located on the banks of the Ganga, it is famous for river rafting, bungee jumping, riverside camping, and yoga retreats. Summer temperatures range between 20°C and 35°C, making water activities especially popular during this season. The best time to visit is March to June, when rafting is fully operational and the weather supports outdoor exploration. Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the nearest airport, around 20 km away.
8. Spiti Valley
Spiti Valley ranks high among the best summer holiday destinations for 2026 due to its dramatic terrain and peaceful monasteries. Surrounded by high mountains and clear blue skies, Spiti offers attractions like Key Monastery, Chandratal Lake, and scenic road trip routes. Summer temperatures range between 5°C and 20°C, making it the most accessible season as roads remain open. The ideal travel months are June to September, when snow clears and connectivity improves. The nearest major airport is Bhuntar Airport, followed by a long but senic road journey.
9. Andaman & Nicobar Islands
Andaman & Nicobar Islands are perfect for travellers looking for tropical beaches and marine adventures. Known for Radhanagar Beach, Havelock Island, and scuba diving experiences, this destination attracts honeymooners and families alike. Summer temperatures range between 24°C and 32°C, with calm sea conditions ideal for water sports. The best time to visit is April to June for beach activities and islands hopping. Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair connects the islands with major Indian cities.
10. Auli
Auli is a quiet Himalayan retreat and one of the scenic places to visit in summer in India. Known for ski slopes in winter, Auli transforms into a green meadow with clear views of Nanda Devi and surrounding peaks during summer. Temperatures range between 10°C and 20°C in May-June, making it suitable for trekking and cable car rides. The best time to visit Auli in summer is May and June, when the weather remains pleasant and mountain views stay clear. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, followed by a road journey to Auli.
Conclusion
Summer 2026 is a time which puts India’s travel scene in the spotlight. We see a great range of options from the cool hill stations to the serene islands which cater to all travel and pockets. Plan ahead, choose your destination carefully and get the most out of your summer break.
