Top 10 Places to visit in India in Summer With Family in 2024

Summer vacations in India are long because in most cities it is too hot for children to go to school. This makes planning a summer vacation trip even harder, as there are only few places that are cooler, and everyone rushes to those sites. So, in this post I have curated the list of best places to visit in summer in India with family in 2024 that are worth your time and money.

The list combines some touristic places with some offbeat gems for your ideal summer vacation. I have a plan to avoid the crazy crowd and traffic of Darjeeling in summer, where you can escape the crowd and still explore the scenic Himalayan terrain. I have similar alternative for Ooty in the south and Shimla in the north.

Since we are talking about summer destinations in India to visit with family, I have given priority to the safety and tourism infrastructure in the places. You can visit these places with kids as well as elderly parents.

Let's take a quick look at the criteria of selecting the top 10 places to visit in summer in India this year.

The post contains affiliate links for tours, hotels etc. This means if you make any purchase through the links in the post, I may get a commission without any additional cost to you.

How to choose a summer holiday destination in India?

The most important factor in summer for most is, of course, the climate. While in Europe, summer calls for sunbathing in the beaches, in India, it calls for escaping to someplace cooler. The humidity near the coastline and the burning temperature in interior India makes life miserable in the cities. Which is why, beaches and desert take a backseat, and people flock into the hill stations.

This brings us to the 2nd factor – crowd. In India avoiding crowd completely is nearly impossible unless you go on solo trips to obscure lands. Family-friendly summer destinations in India tend to pull crowd because they have all the amenities, accessibility and great options for food and accommodation.

The other factors I have considered is budget and accessibility. Some of the tourist spots like Kashmir and Lakshadweep are being aggressively promoted by the government which has led to prices skyrocketing in these areas. These are beautiful beyond doubt, but if you are looking for something that wouldn't burn a whole in your pocket if you pan a family vacation to, then this list is for you.

Thanks to my travel blogger friends as well who generously contributed to this list.

1. Meghalaya – the abode of clouds

Meghalaya is a beautiful state of India nestled in the Garo, Khasi, and Jaintia hills. It is one of the least explored places in India but has a wealth of experiences to offer. The temperature in summer is between 16 degrees and 31 degrees, with low precipitation making it a great time to visit the state.

The progressive culture, great music, environmental consciousness, and exemplary cleanliness are some of the areas where the state has a lot to teach the rest of India. Go on a family trip to Meghalaya and explore a new culture.

How to Reach Meghalaya?

The main connectivity of Meghalaya to the rest of India is through Guwahati, the capital of Assam. Umroi Airport near Shillong offers limited flights, but it tends to be costly and infrequent.

🛫Flight delays are getting too common in India these days. Get 100% compensation on delayed flights using Airhelp!

Trip Activities

Start your trip with the capital Shillong, which is resplendent with natural beauty. 

Enjoy the green vistas on a road trip from Shillong to Mawlynnong, which are just 90 km apart. This plastic-free village has set an example of environment-friendliness. It was recognized as the cleanest village in Asia and is often called “God’s own garden”.

While the homestays here are a little expensive, it will be a good experience to spend one night there. If you are on a tighter budget you can restrict yourself to a day trip.

There are many other natural and man-made wonders in Meghalaya. Limestone caves, perennial waterfalls, pristine lakes, forests, national parks – this tiny state has everything. You will find living root bridges which are man-made wonders of Garo and Khasi tribes.

The world’s only double-decker living root bridge can be found in Cherrapunji. Coming back to natural wonders, take a boat trip with your family at the transparent Umngot river of India, flowing through Dawki, a border town between India and Bangladesh.

2. Pelling – The Gorgeous Himalayan town

Located 131 km from the capital city Gangtok, Pelling is arguably the most beautiful town in the state of Sikkim. Pelling is an attractive destination for the mountaineers who use this as a base camp for challenging trekking expeditions. There are regular buses from Gangtok to Pelling and many jeep services to other nearby towns.

The temperature in Pelling ranges between 15 degrees and 20 degrees with occasional rainfall in the evening. The best thing about these rains is that following a night of heavy showers the sky clears up the next morning making way to the best views of Kanchenjunga from your hotel.

How To Reach Pelling

The most popular ways of getting to Pelling is through New Jalpaiguri Railway station or Bagdogra Airport, both of which are located in West Bengal.

Activities in Pelling

In Pelling, you will experience the Tibetian culture and visit some beautiful Buddhist monasteries. Pemyangtse Monastery is the largest and most famous of them.

Other places to visit when in Pelling are the rock garden, the spectacular Kanchenjunga falls, the Pelling skywalk and the Khechopalri Lake. You can also visit the ruins of Rabdentse Palace to quench some thirst for history.

Overall, it is a budget summer holiday destination which offers a plethora of experiences.

Accommodation in Pelling

There are different types of accommodation in Pelling – from budget hotels to homestays as well as big resorts. There are sufficient public transport and local tour companies for budget travel.

You can book even 4-star hotels within Rs.5000 per night in lower Pelling. Budget hotels with standard facilities are available from Rs. 1000 per night. My top pick is Kaya Gantavya Resort in Lower Pelling.

3. Kurseong – The Offbeat Alternative to Darjeeling

Located at 4860 feet, Kurseong is the unsung twin of Darjeeling, 32 km away from the most famous hill station of West Bengal. Like Darjeeling it has a distinct Anglo-Indian charm, expansive tea gardens on rolling hills, breathtaking views of the Himalayas and beautiful monasteries. Unlike Darjeeling it is quiet, and significantly less commercialized.

Most importantly, you don't have to battle the traffic jams to explore this small town in the summer.

How to Reach Kurseong?

Attractions in Kurseong

Some of the best places to visit in Kurseong are Eagles's Craig, Deer Park and Netaji Subhash Museum. The Makaibari tea estate producing the famous Makaibari Darjeeling tea is located inKurseong. You can also take day trips to Rohini Park, Chimney and Paglajhora falls.

Accommodations in Kurseong

You can enjoy a luxurious stay at Taj Chia Kutir in the Makaibari tea estate.🛋️🌟

You can also choose from a plethora of homestays and hotels in a lower range. The Allita Hotel is a top pick in mid-budget category.

4. Kalimpong -The Charming Himalayan City

Kalimpong is a lovely Himalayan town in North Bengal in the Kalimpong district of West Bengal. Not as famous and crowded as Darjeeling, it offers a tranquil escape from the heat of summer. Stay in the Delo hills to enjoy cool weather and amazing views of the mountains.

How To Reach Kalimpong?

Attractions in Kalimpong

The Kalimpong Science city is a classic amusement park that encourages scientific temper in kids. It is a must-visit place when you are in Kalimpong with family. You can visit the science city, Hanuman tok, Buddha park, cactus garden and Deolo Park on the same day.

The next few days you can spend exploring the countryside like Lava, Lolegaon , Rishyap and others. You can also enjoy excursions to Takdah, Tinchuley and Lamahatta.

Besides breathtaking views Kalimpong also has a bustling market and amazing nightlife, just like Darjeeling. You can book your stay in Morgan House, a government owned property in Kalimpong Town. You will also get several mid-budget hotels in Delo Hills, which is the highest point in Kalimpong and offer excellent weather during the summer.

5. Munnar – The Lush Green Nilgiris

Munnar is the ruby in the bejeweled crown of Kerala, God’s own country. The queen of hills in the Western Ghats is known for its unparalleled green vistas, the rich diversity of flora and fauna, the lakes and cascades.

How to reach Munnar?

Attractions in Munnar

It is my favorite place in South India and an excellent summer holiday destination. Due to the high altitude and greenery, the climate remains cool even when many other hill stations in south India are not.

For example, Wayanad is another amazing hill station in Kerala, but I will not recommend it for summer vacation because it would be hot. Munnar, on the other hand, has a very soothing and temperate climate.

Kodaikanal and Ooty are great, but they are extremely crowded in summer. While you will not need light woolens as you would in Pelling, you will not perspire either. Take your family to the bustling tea gardens and tour of one of the many tea factories of Munnar.

The advantage of visiting Munnar in summer is that you will get a clear sky and a clear view of the mountains.

It is also a great time to spot wildlife as animals come out of the depths of the jungle to drink water in the lakes. Visit the Eravikulam national park to spot the endangered Nilgiri tahr and walk freely in the hills. You can also go on a safari in Thekkady tiger reserve, which is just 93 km away from Munnar. Don't miss the jeep safari to the highest organic tea estate in the world, just outside Munnar, at Kolukkumalai.

The nearest city with airport accessibility is Kochi which is 132 km from Munnar and has frequent bus service. You can also visit Munnar by an overnight Volvo bus from Bangalore.

6. Shimoga – Go off-beat in Karnataka

Shimoga and Sharavati valley is probably the most underrated destinations in Karnataka. That’s a good thing because most of the places are quite unexplored.

How to reach?

The impeccable beauty of the Gajanur dam, the views from Kavaledurga fort and the Jog Falls are my favorite attractions in Shimoga.

Explore the nearby Honnemaradu Lake and experience sunset at Agumbe. There are many other waterfalls and trekking trails in the Sharavati valley.

You can also visit the Sharavati wildlife reserve for a safari. Read our full travel guide for Shimoga.

Accomodation in Shimoga

Royal Orchid Shimoga, Hotel Mayura near Jog Falls.

7. Dalhousie – Khajjar, Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh is a landlocked Himalayan state known for its undulating mountains and green vistas. Dalhousie is an amazing place for family vacation which has a well-developed tourist infrastructure but less crowded than Shimla or Manali.

How to reach?

You can enjoy the colonial architecture, the beautiful weather, views of the snow-capped mountains and the waterfalls in Dalhousie. A trip to Dalhousie can also include a day trip to Khajjar, the mini-Switzerland of India and Chamba. Grab the detailed itinerary for a family trip to Dalhousie Khajjar and Chamba here.

8. Sangla Valley – Off the beaten track in the Himalayas

The Himalayas comes to the rescue from Delhi's scorching hot weather. When Shimla and Manali are swarming with tourists, I went looking to Sangla valley for a quieter recluse. Here are only a handful of tourists in the peak summer months which makes it a perfect destination for family holidays.

How to Reach?

Activities in Sangla Valley

The valley is surrounded by lush greenery, snow-capped mountains in visible sight and a river flowing at a fast pace. Baspa riverbed of Sangla is a lot quieter version of Manali's Beas River. No activities in place, no food vendors, just huge rocks to enjoy the scenery, Baspa River is perfect for those who'd like to enjoy time with family amid nature.

Bering Nag temple dedicated to the lord of snakes and is built from wooden structures based on Buddhist pagodas. The valley is also home to centuries-old Kamru Fort which is said to host 33000 Gods. The main shrine of the fort isn't open for tourists while the Kamakshi Devi temple in the premises is open for those who'd like to pray here. A Buddhist monastery is another place to visit here, it isn't open all day, but the monks open up the doors for those who'd like to visit.

Accommodation in Sangla

Accommodation is available starting from Rs.1500 even in 3-star hotels if you book early. The average price of a 3-star hotel is around Rs.2500 per night.

9. Kasol – The Heavenly Himalayas

Nestled in the lap of the Parvati Valley, Kasol emerges as an offbeat yet enchanting summer escape for families seeking tranquility without breaking the bank. It is one of the most popular destinations for budget backpackers and moutain-lovers.

Known for its picturesque landscapes and laid-back atmosphere, Kasol provides a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. The offbeat charm of this destination sets it apart, offering a break from the conventional tourist hubs.

How to reach Kasol?

You can explore the fairy forest in Pulga, visit the Parashar Lake and temple and enjoy trekking in the valleys.

Affordable accommodations, ranging from cozy guesthouses to riverside camps, cater to various budgets.

Kasol is a scenic drive from Bhuntar Airport, making it convenient for time-poor travelers. With the Parvati River serenading in the background and the towering mountains as your backdrop, Kasol promises a unique family retreat, fostering lasting memories in the lap of nature.

10. Ladakh – The Barren Beauty

Ladakh is a Union Territory situated in the northern part of India, surrounded by the Himalayas and the Karakoram Range. The primary hub in Ladakh is Leh, serving as the entry point to the region's breathtaking landscapes and cultural attractions.

How to reach Ladakh?

Reaching Ladakh, a region celebrated for its stark landscapes and rich culture, requires planning due to its remote location and challenging terrain. Ladakh is not directly accessible by train, so travelers typically combine train travel with road journeys to reach this breathtaking destination.

With its moderate temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C, it offers a perfect escape from the scorching heat. A week is ample to explore Ladakh's beauty, suitable for families with children and adventure seekers alike. Marvel at attractions like Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, and monasteries that dot the landscape.

To commute within Ladakh, taxis and rented bikes are readily available, allowing you to traverse the breathtaking landscapes efficiently. Pack your bags for a unique family adventure in Ladakh!

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That's a wrap for this list. I have tried to cover the most budget-friendly and family-friendly options for you to explore this summer. Please share you favorite summer escapes in the comment section. Check out my top travel planning resources for Indian destinations.

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