TRAVEL
Escape the summer heat by visiting these scenic hill stations in India
Everyone is searching for a cool location to unwind and escape the heat now that summer has arrived. If you hate the heat, you certainly dislike summer. Are you considering leaving the oppressive summer heat behind and traveling to some cooler locations to relax? Thankfully, there are places to explore in India that provide some relief from the severe heat, like mountains, hills, beaches, exotic forests, and other natural locations.
It is advisable to go towards the region of the mountains. The summertime charm of the valley just can’t compete with the beautiful sights. There is sufficient greenery surrounding for you to be able to enjoy the treasures of nature, it is not bitterly cold, and the sunshine and clean mountain air feel restorative. There are many places to visit in India with many great and inspiring attractions to witness. Reaching India depends on where you’re flying from but just so you’re clear, Indigo Airlines is a great option to fly with, they offer reasonable fares and great services.
Here are a few of the top locations to visit this summer to chill and relax without suffering from sunstroke:
- MUNNAR, KERALA
Munnar is renowned as one of the iconic hill stations in India. It is a hill station that inspires romanticism or a paradise that tells about the mesmerizing beauty of nature. It was formerly a popular British summer retreat location. Due to the unusual scenery, unmatched beauty of the surroundings, and favorable climate, this location is a well-known honeymoon destination.
The word “Munnar” means “three rivers” in the native tongue. This describes the three rivers that pass through the area: the Periavaru, Mattupeeti, and Nallathanni. Munnar attracts tourists from all over the world for a variety of reasons, including its lavish variety of flora and wildlife. Due to its location in the Western Ghats, Munnar is also home to a number of protected areas that are home to some of the rarest and most endangered plant and animal species.
- AULI, UTTARAKHAND
Auli, an underrated but significant ski town, is situated in the Garhwal Mountains, a section of the massive Himalayan mountain range. It is often renowned as Dev Bhoomi because of the numerous temples all around this town that can be visited on the way to Char Dham. Due to the well-known monastery at Joshimath, which is adjacent to Auli, it is also thought to have received Shankaracharya’s blessing. The mountainous terrain has established itself as a well-liked skiing destination for ardent skiers.
In the winter, sporting events are organized for visitors, which draws a large crowd. The best months to travel are from April through June when the temperature is relatively cool. You would appreciate the snowfall, the cool winter air, and the skiing options if you’re an adventure seeker who enjoys experiencing the frigid winter in Auli, which lasts from November to February.
- MCLEOD GANJ, HIMACHAL PRADESH
The Himachal Pradesh town of McLeod Ganj also referred to as Upper Dharamshala, is situated in the Kangra valley. Both the air and road from Delhi can be accessed to go to McLeod Ganj. The cheapest method to get from Delhi to McLeod Ganj is via bus, which takes 12 hours. Gaggal airport, located 15 kilometers south of Dharamshala, is the closest airport.
This town is less Indian and more Tibetan in terms of clothes, cuisine, and culture. Before daybreak, this Himachali town is a very lonely and empty place with everything closed, including the majority of hotels and motels, but after 9 am, it transforms into a completely different place, full of activity with people either selling items or ambling along the narrow alleyways of the town.
- PAHALGAM, JAMMU & KASHMIR
In the Anantnag area of the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, Pahalgam is a town and an informed regional advisory body. It is a well-known hill station and tourist destination. Pahalgam, which is 2,130 meters above sea level and 95 kilometers from Srinagar, is perhaps the most well-known hill resort in the Kashmir valley. The temperatures don’t dip as low at night since it is significantly lower than Gulmarg, and the magnificent Lidder River runs right through the town, which is another advantage.
Pahalgam offers luxurious, affordable, and midrange hotels. The cabins also provide horses for transportation, however, they are prohibited from entering the building and must wait outside the entrance. Pahalgam will undoubtedly be the perfect escape location for those who enjoy nature. Aru Valley, Betaab Valley, and even white water rafting are just a few of the sightseeing opportunities this location offers you. These attractions will have you coming back again and again.
- CHOPTA, UTTARAKHAND
Chopta, Uttarakhand’s little Switzerland, is a popular tourist destination all year round. It offers nice summers, refreshing monsoon air, and snow-covered winters. It is the hub of the Panch Kedar, or the center of Lord Shiva’s five most renowned temples in Uttarakhand. Numerous national and international conservation and ecological bodies acknowledge it as a prime location for birdwatching.
Travelers who wish to take in the snow-covered surroundings like to go on hikes and visit the Tungnath temple in the winter. Bird watchers often come here after the rain to see rare birds. The world’s tallest Lord Shiva Temple is also located here.
- SHILLONG, MEGHALAYA
One of North-East India’s seven sister states is Meghalaya. Meghalaya means “abode of clouds” in Sanskrit. Shillong is among the most well-known tourist attractions in Meghalaya. It is both the state’s biggest city and the capital of Meghalaya. Shillong and its surroundings provide a variety of tourist sites to discover, including waterfalls, caves, natural parks, and lakes. In addition to the natural beauty of Shillong, you may learn about the tribal people’s culture, tradition, and way of life while seeing the city’s numerous attractions.
Shillong has exceptionally good weather because of its proximity to the Bangladeshi plains and the mountains in the area. You can explore the magnificent Umiam Lake and wander along its banks if you wish to feel the cool wind of the lake, vegetation, and pine trees. Visit Ward’s Lake and Shillong Golf Course for a peaceful stroll, and be sure to stop by Police Bazar for luxury handicrafts and other regional items.
Kenneth is a proud native of sydney, born and raised there. However, he pursued his education abroad and studied in Australia. Kenneth has worked as a journalist for almost a decade, making valuable contributions to prominent publications such as Yahoo News and The Verge. Currently, he serves as a journalist for The Hear Up, where he focuses on covering climate and science news. You can reach Kenneth at [email protected].
