Summer escape: 5 must-visit scenic Himalayan towns in India

With summers approaching, people are already making plans to beat the heat by planning vacations in the hill stations. Imagine if these places are surrounded with Himalayan peaks, dense forests, rivers, and spiritual charm. The Himalayas are home to some of the most stunning towns in India which are beyond the popular hill stations.
Here’s a list of five of the most scenic Himalayan towns that should be considered this summer vacay.

Altitude: 10,000 ftBest Time to Visit: March to June, September to November
Set in Arunachal Pradesh, Tawang is a beautiful blend of Tibetan culture, high-altitude landscapes, and spiritual significance. The place is home to the Tawang Monastery, the largest in India and second largest in the world, this town offers stunning views of the Eastern Himalayas. The journey to Tawang itself is an experience, winding through misty mountains, frozen lakes like Sela Lake, and alpine forests.
Must visit attractions: Tawang Monastery, Bum La Pass, Nuranang Falls

Altitude: 11,500 ftBest Time to Visit: May to September
While technically a cold desert, Leh is nestled within the Greater Himalayas and offers surreal mountain vistas, unique Tibetan-Buddhist culture, and clear blue skies. Surrounded by some of the world’s highest motorable passes and turquoise lakes like Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri, Leh is a scenic and spiritual experience unlike any other.​
Don’t Miss: Leh Palace and Shanti Stupa, Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake, Hemis Monastery

Altitude: 8,800 ft
Best Time to Visit: April to November
Often called the "Mini Switzerland of India," Chopta is an unspoiled gem in the Garhwal Himalayas. It’s the base for the Tungnath trek—the highest Shiva temple in the world—and offers panoramic views of peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba. Chopta’s meadows and pine forests make it a haven for trekkers, birdwatchers, and solitude seekers.​
Don’t Miss:Tungnath and Chandrashila trek and Deoria Tal lake

Altitude: 7,200 ftBest Time to Visit: March to May, September to December
With spellbinding views of the Kanchenjunga—the world’s third-highest peak—Pelling in West Sikkim is a must-visit for nature lovers. The town is surrounded by dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and ancient monasteries. Pelling is less commercialized than Gangtok, making it ideal for travelers seeking peace amidst pristine beauty.​
Don’t Miss: Pemayangtse Monastery, Rabdentse Ruins, Kanchenjunga Waterfall and Skywalk

Altitude: 9,700 ftBest Time to Visit: April to June, September to October
Kalpa is another beautiful Himalayan town set in Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh. This is a quiet, picturesque town with dramatic views of the Kinnaur Kailash range. Unlike the busier towns of Himachal, Kalpa offers tranquility, apple orchards, and traditional wooden houses with carved facades. As the sun rises, the snow-capped peaks turn pink, then golden—a sight that will stay etched in your memory.
Don’t Miss: Kinnaur Kailash Shivling view, Roghi village and Suicide Point, Buddhist temples