Top 10 places in the hills for a perfect summer vacation in India

When the plains start to feel like a frying pan and your AC whines in exhaustion, it’s time to hill out. Yes, we mean pack those bags, dust off your travel playlist, and head straight to where the air is crisp, the views are dreamy, and your chai cools slower than your temper in Delhi heat.This summer, ditch the poolside and find yourself on the hillsides. Whether you want to trek, sip chai with a view, or just nap under pine trees, India’s hills are calling—and we strongly suggest you put your phone on airplane mode and answer.
So, here are 10 offbeat-to-iconic hill destinations in India that make for a summer escape worth bragging about:

While most places are tanning under the sun, Tawang might just hand you a snowball. At 10,000 feet, this hidden gem is where Buddhist monasteries meet clouds, and your Insta stories basically write themselves.

If doing nothing is your summer goal, Kasol is your soul town. Lazy riverside cafes, chill mountain air, and conversations with strangers who call themselves “digital nomads.” Bonus: Maggi tastes better here. Don’t ask why. It just does.

This tiny hamlet is all that you need when when it comes to gorgeous Himalayan views. Think of it as the shy cousin of Manali, but one who can recite poems and cook you a pahadi meal. Trekkers, this is your launchpad.

If Ooty is the noisy teenager, Coonoor is the artsy sibling who reads Murakami and prefers jazz over EDM. Tea plantations, toy train rides, and an old-world charm that feels like a Wes Anderson film.

Nestled in the Shevaroy Hills, Yercaud is a quiet escape that’s been hiding in plain sight. It’s not flashy, it’s not crowded, and that’s exactly why it’s awesome. Sunset at Pagoda Point is a legit vibe.

Known for skiing in winter, Auli in summer is pure magic. Lush meadows, cable car rides, and Himalayan peaks doing the most for your selfie game. Also, way fewer tourists—thank us later.

Ziro is like that indie playlist you discovered before it was cool. Surreal landscapes, bamboo huts, and Apatani hospitality. Come here to recharge your soul or maybe write that novel you’ve been procrastinating since 2020.

Coffee lovers, listen up: Chikmagalur is your summer love story waiting to happen. Rolling plantations, misty mornings, and a flavourful scent in the air that seems to be so refreshing. Also, sunrise at Mullayanagiri? It’s definitely not to be missed.

Kalimpong doesn’t try too hard, and that’s its superpower. Quieter than Darjeeling, but equally scenic, with old British architecture and cheese momos (yes, they exist). Just go.

Tirthan is where you go when you're done with all things mainstream. No loud crowds, just the sound of a river, rustling leaves, and your own thoughts (gasp). Ideal for nature nerds and introverts.