Top 8 places in North India to visit during summers

Travelling is truly therapeutic and refreshing for me and for many others who are reading this now. While mountains, snow, and hills have always fascinated me, the local delicacies, roadside savouries, and mouth-watering desserts make my soul happier than ever. A perfect demonstration of this combination is the Northern region of India, its beauty that cannot be explained with just words. I, however, have tried my best to give you a glimpse of this beautiful paradise through this blog, for you to be able to plan a great holiday.

Having said so, there is no disbelief that Mother Nature has been kind enough to bless North India with a plethora of breath-taking places. Snow topped mountains, gigantic valleys, scenic rivers, lakes, historic monuments, spiritual towns, lush green national parks, adventure sports the list is never-ending when you start describing North India. Here is the top 8 list from Wetraveler to visit North India during your summer holiday.

 

Dalhousie: 

Have you been dreaming of travelling to Switzerland for a long? Does the idea of international travel, high airfare, and travel cost scare you? If you answered positively, do not get disappointed. A visit to the tiny little hill station up north called ‘Dalhousie’ will surely fulfil your dream of visiting Switzerland in India. Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, Dalhousie is an epitome of breath-taking views and picturesque landscape. Much like the European style, Dalhousie also boasts of colonial and British style architecture. The view of lush green oak and pine trees, towering mountains, tranquil rivers, and stunning waterfalls will make you fall in love with this place again and again. This is a summer retreat and a perfect place for honeymooners, nature lovers, and adventure buffs.

Nearest railway station: Pathankot

Places to visit in Dalhousie: Panchpula, Khajjar (mini Switzerland), Chamba, St. John Church, Subhash Baoli, Sach Pass, Dainkund peak, Rock Garden, Satdhara falls, Mall road

Book Hotels: Hotel Indraprasad, Hotel Ark, Snow Valley Resorts Dalhousie, Alps resort. Options for camping too

Restaurants: Shere Punjab, Café Dalhousie, Motil Mahal, Illusion Lounge bar, Shiva café

Dharamshala: 

Dharamshala an unspoiled hill town cocooned comfortably under the arms of the Himalayas will give you the perfect travel goal for your next summer vacation. A perfect amalgamation of alluring scenic beauty along with spiritual bliss, the place is a delight for outsiders. A few km away from Dharamshala is Mcleodganj, which is popular for His Holiness - The Dalai Lama home. Trekkers and thrill-seekers will thank the nature for a lifetime opportunity to trek in these deep and beautiful hills. Dharamshala’s weather is also pleasant throughout the year; thanks to the widespread mountains, clear sky, deodar cedar trees, and sparkling rivers.

How to reach: Nearest railway is in Pathankot and well connected from Delhi 

Dharamshala tourist places: Mcleodganj, Dal Lake, Gyuto Monastery, Kangra fort, Chamba, St. John Church, War memorial, Dharamshala cricket stadium, Tea Gardens

Hotels in Dharamshala: Indraprastha resort & Spa, Dragon resorts, Prakriti Aalay, Rakkh resort, Hotel Quartz, Udechee huts, Nibanna resort

Restaurants: Taste of India, Tibet kitchen, Jimmy’s Italian Kitchen, Illiterati, McLio restaurant

 

Nainital: The name ‘Nainital’ is derived from a beautiful lake called ‘Naini’ that sits beautifully in the centre of this town. Typically known as the Lake District of India this pretty hill station is surrounded by picturesque mountains, historical monuments, British architecture, gorgeous looking lakes, and pleasant weather throughout the year. Due to this, tourists flock here during summers, making it one of the popular hill stations of North India. Nainital is a peaceful place for a leisure holiday that will suit couples and families looking for a quick weekend gateway. Of course, the visit is incomplete without experiencing the boat ride in Naini Lake.

How to reach: Nainital has good connectivity from Delhi by train and road both. Kathgodham is the nearest railway station and Pantnagar is the nearest airport 

Nainital tourist places: Naini Lake, Snow viewpoint, The Mall Road, Nainital ropeway, Bhimtal lake, Nainital Zoo, Tiffin top, eco cave gardens, and many more 

Hotels in Nainital: The Hive Cottage, The Naini Retreat, Manu Maharani, Fun Villas, The Pinewood, God’s Own Cottage, The Himalayan View Cottage 

 

Dehradun: The capital city of Uttarakhand, Dehradun enjoys scenic beauty in abundance. It is considered one of the oldest cities of India, which got even mentioned in ancient mythological stories. The city has a postcard-perfect backdrop surrounded by magnificent-looking hills, spectacular waterfalls, parks, caves, and beautiful temples. The icing on the cake is Dehradun weather, which is pleasant throughout the year, thanks to the two holy rivers Ganga and Yamuna, which are situated on each side of the city. The city has also gained popularity as it houses one of the finest educational institutes, which attracts students from all over the country. With a host of activities to explore, such as trekking, cycling, camping, and skating, adventure enthusiasts should have Dehradun at top of their bucket list.

How to reach: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport. The city is well connected by rail and road from Delhi

Dehrudun Tourist places: Tapovan, Lacchiwalla, Forest Research Institute, Tibetan Temple, Rajaji National Park, Tiger falls, Tapkeshwar temple, Sai Darbar Temple

Hotels in Dehradun: Four points by Sheraton, Doon Castle, Ajanta Continental, Padmini Palace, Ramada, The Solitaire, Lemarq 

Restaurants: Doon Darbar, Sheesha, Malabar restaurant, Black pepper, Kumar foods restaurant, Moti Mahal, Vatika

 

Manali: As soon as we think about Manali our imagination box starts tickling. We instantly visualize snowfall, mountains, valleys, scenic views, chic resorts, and what not. While all of this goes well as a synonym to Manali, the experience comes to life only when you visit this adorable place. One of the most popular tourist attractions of North, the place is not only popular amongst Indians but amongst foreigners too. Walking alongside the tall oak trees, feeling the soft touch of green meadows, and embracing the cold waves, the entire experience seems magical. Since winter witnesses’ heavy snowfall, the accumulation of glacier water from Rohtang pass has resulted in a beautiful formation of Beas River, which is quite popular for recreation and adventure activities. To sum up, Manali is such an incredible tourist destination that it’s impossible for any wanderer who is on the lookout for solace, peace, nature, wildlife, or a spiritual journey would return without promising to come back again.

How to reach: Manali is well connected to Delhi and Chandigarh through road and by rail 
Manali tourist places: Jogini waterfalls, Bead river, Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley, Hidimba temple, Manali sanctuary, Old Manali, Tibetan Monastery, Vashist, Gulaba

Hotels In Manali: Piccadilly Manali, The Manali Inn, The Orchard Green Resort, Snow Valley resort, Mary’s cottages, Mount Ville cottages, Hotel Daffodil

Restaurants: People, Johnson’s café, Café 1947, Chopsticks, Mount View restaurant, Oven in the Garden

 

Mussoorie:

Yet another gem of North India, Mussoorie is one of the best tourist attractions of summer. A simple yet quaint little town in Uttarakhand exemplifies the beauty of North India. Close to Dehradun city, it is typically referred as Queen of Hills, which keeps getting pretty year on year. The cinematic views of mountains, waterfalls, dense forests and perpetually pleasant weather will be etched in your minds forever. The town also presents the colonial architecture, which will virtually take you in a British era. On the other hand, shopaholics can have a time of their life to choose from a variety of souvenirs in the local markets. 

How to reach: Closest airport is Jolly Grant Airport and well connected to Dehradun and Delhi 

Manali tourist places: Kempty falls, Gun hill, Mussoorie Lake, The Mall Road, Mussoorie adventure park, Lal Tibba, Camels back road            

Hotels in Manali: Valley View hotel, Sterling Mussoorie, Honeymoon Inn, Hotel Krishna Palace, Seven oaks  

Restaurants: Kalsang, Doma’s Inn, Char Dukan, Lovely Omelette, Café Ivy, Café by the way

 

Ladakh: 

Ladakh is a high-altitude travel destination, which should be on every travellers bucket list. The rugged mountains, clear skies, serene blue lakes and the one of its kind Tibetan culture resembles Incredible India in the true sense. The captivating beauty of Leh is so tempting that by far it has become the most desirable destination for pilgrims, adventure seekers, nature lovers, and honeymooners. Driving up the highest motor-able roads, Khardungla and Changla pass will surely skip your beat. On the other hand, the radiating beauty of Lake Pangong TSO and TSO Moriri is so magical that for a moment you will imagine yourself in a dreamland.  

How to reach: Leh airport is the most convenient way to reach Bikers can take the Leh-Manali road, which is one of the scenic roads of India 

Leh tourist places: Pangong Lake, Tso Moriri Lake, Nubra Valley, Hunder, Khardungla Pass, Changla Pass, Tur Tuk, Magnetic hill, Shanti Stupa, Hanle

Hotels in Leh: Ladakh Himalayan retreat, Ladakh Residency, Hotel city palace, Hotel Nalanda, The Grand Dragon 

Restaurants: This being a seasonal destination and due to extreme temperature in winter, there are not many options for fine dining. It is advisable to eat in the hotel you are booked in

 

Kashmir:

Kashmir does not need any introduction or an overview; in fact even a small glimpse of this fairy-tale land will make your eyes sparkle and heart flutter with joy. The place, which is often in news due to its political uncertainty and unrest, is also one of the most beautiful travel destinations in the world. As soon as you land in Kashmir the panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, green pastures, ethnic architecture, and glittering lakes will soothe your eyes, mind, and body. Not just the natural beauty, Kashmiri locals are known for their impeccable hospitability and it is for this reason you should also explore the homestays for a day or two. An abundance of offerings ranging from peaceful nature, interesting wildlife, adventure trek points, beautiful shrines, fascinating history, pristine lakes, and perfect weather Kashmir cannot be missed by any soul on this earth.

How to reach: The nearest airport is Srinagar airport and is well connected to major cities of India. Jammu Tawi railway station is the nearest rail station. Kashmir is also well connected by road from cities like Delhi & Chandigarh. 

Kashmir tourist places: Srinagar, Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Pahalgam, Patnitop, Dal Lake, Jama Masjid, Jammu city, Amarnath, Dras, Shikara ride, Gulmarg gondola, Shalimar garden

Hotels in Kashmir: Lemon Tree, Pine view resort, Radisson blue, Jamal resort, Moutain view resort, Welcome hotel, The Vintage Gulmarg, Grand Mumtaz, Hotel Hilltop, Pahalgam retreat Restaurants: Shamyana restaurant, earthen oven restaurant, Mughal Darbar, Stream restaurant, Alchi kitchen, Ahdoos, Dana Pani, Lhasa restaurant, Highland Park, Grand Grills restaurant   

I am sure after reading and getting to know more about these destinations you may feel confused which destination to consider for your next holiday. Do write to me or leave a comment below for any more clarification.   

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