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3 Tips to Follow for a Healthy Summer Vacation

  • Keep Yourself Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water during summer, especially when you are travelling is a must. Avoid alcoholic and caffeinated beverages, as it can lead to dehydration. Include more vegetables and fruits in your diet when you are outdoors, which is also a great way not only to keep you hydrated but also to provide you with essential minerals and vitamins.

  • Reduce Sun Exposure: Avoid exposing yourself to the intense sun for a healthy vacation. The UV rays are quite strong from 10 to 4 p.m. So, during this time, plan for indoor activities like shopping, lunch, or other fun holiday activities.

  • Protect Your Skin: Protecting your skin is the most important thing when you plan your holidays during summer. A water-resistant sunscreen (at least SPF 30) is a must, especially when you are outdoors. Even on cloudy days, do not forget to apply sunscreen. Also, wear clothing with long pants and sleeves, lip balm with SPF, and sunglasses with UV-blocking.

10 Best Summer Vacation Places in India

Almora

Almora is a fantastic getaway for a summer vacation in Uttarakhand. Surrounded by old oaks and dwindling pines, small streams, slate-roofed houses, and apple orchards, the hill station has a divine aura that appeals to anyone. The grandeur of the snow-capped Himalayas, mesmerizing scenery, unique handicrafts, cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine beckons tourists to this marvellous destination.

Things to Do

  • Martola is a scenic place situated about 10 kilometres from Almora. Nestled amidst thick woodlands, scenic grandeur and well-manicured gardens, the site has lured many foreign nationals to settle here.

  • Kasar Devi Temple is situated at an altitude of 2,100 m and offers picturesque views of deodar and pine forests. Katarmal Sun Temple, which is about 16 km from Almora, was built in the 9th century AD by the Medieval Katyuri Kings.

  • Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary is about an hour’s drive from Almora. It was established in 1988 to conserve special Oak trees. It offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks.

How to Reach

  • Pantnagar Airport is the nearest airport located about 115 km away. Almora has good road connectivity with many cities and towns in North India. The road distance between Almora and Delhi is 365 km, which can be covered in around 10 hours.

Sarahan

Soaked in natural splendour, Sarahan is situated on the banks of Sutlej River. The snow-capped peaks, terraced farms, emerald pine forests, and apple orchards welcome you to Sarahan. From April to June would be the ideal time to visit Sarahan.

Things to Do

  • The famous Bhimkali Temple is about 800 years old. It is one of the 51 Shaktipeeths of India. The exquisite carvings and architecture of the temple is a sight to behold. It is built in Indo-Tibetan Style.

  • The Bird Park is a breeding centre and houses bird Monal – the state bird.

  • Bhaba Valley lures many visitors for its alluring landscape, alpine meadows, and reservoir lake. The other attractions include Sangla Valley, Darang Ghati, Banjara Retreat, and Jeori hot spring.

How to Reach

  • There are excellent bus services from Shimla and Delhi. The Jubbarhatti Airport is about 175 km away from Sarahan and has regular flights from Delhi, Shimla, and Mumbai. There are taxi services available from the airport to reach Sarahan.

Pahalgam

Located at an altitude of 7,200 feet, Pahalgam is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. The place is just incredible during summer and a must-visit for travel enthusiasts. Situated at the juncture of Sheshnag Lake and Lidder River, this ‘Valley of Shepherds’ boasts of stunning sights of hillocks and snow peaks, and lush pine backwoods. The place experiences snowfall in December and January.

Things to Do

  • Mamleshwar Temple is one of the ancient temples with a rich history. Situated on the banks of the Lidder river, the Shiva Temple is about a kilometre from Pahalgam. Another famous temple established by the ruler Maharaja Avantivarman is the Avantipur Temple that you should give a visit.

  • Kolahoi Glacier: The spectacular Kolahoi Glacier is situated at 18,000 feet, and the trekking is laborious, but the stunning views make the journey truly memorable.

  • Aru Village is about 15 km from Pahalgam. The scenic hamlet is surrounded by surreal vistas, conifers and pine woodlands, and marvellous green glades.

  • Tulian Lake is nestled amidst Pir Panjal and Zanskar Mountain ranges and offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks. The lake is overlaid with snow, a hidden gem of Kashmir Valley. The trekking trails to the lake from Baisaran is tedious, but the stunning locales will make up for the weariness.

How to Reach

  • The Srinagar Airport is the nearest airport that is 47 km from Pahalgam. There are regular buses to Pahalgam from major cities in the country.

Panchmarhi

Nestled amidst the lush Satpura range, Pachmarhi is one of the popular destinations of Madhya Pradesh. The legend says that Pachmarhi is the place where Pandavas stayed during their exile. Captain James Forsyth discovered this beautiful hill station in 1857. Located at an elevation of 1100 m, the area is cool and pleasant and is part of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Things to Do

  • Panchmarhi comprises numerous temples, wildlife reserves, hilltops, and waterfalls, which makes it interesting to explore this quaint hill town.

  • Satpura National Park sprawls over an area of 524 sq.km. On the safari ride, you can witness untrodden forest, deep gorges, wriggling rivulets, and an array of animals.

  • Mahadeo Peak is one of the highest points that has the holy shrine of Lord Shiva. The greenery and pristine nature views are calming to your senses.

  • Handi Koh is a 300 feet cliff that has many mythological tales associated with it. Enveloped in the lush forest, Handi Koh is an enticing place for trekking.

How to Reach

  • Bhopal airport is the nearest one (195 km). To reach Pachmarhi hill station, you need to first land at Piparia, which is about 2 hrs drive from Pachmarhi. There are buses and taxis available from here to reach Pachmarhi.

Masinagudi

Located in the southern state of India, Masinagudi is an ecology corridor that lures travellers from different regions throughout the year. It is a delightful destination for every traveller, whether they are nature lovers, adventure seekers, or wildlife photography enthusiasts. Masinagudi is just 30 km from Ooty, a popular hill station in Tamil Nadu.

Things to Do

  • Masinagudi Jeep Safari is a fun way to explore the wilderness of the forest located at the foot of the Nilgiris.

  • Maravakandy Dam, built in 1951, is an absolute beauty that one must witness in the morning. From the animal watching tower, one can see breath-taking views of animal and bird species.

  • Theppakadu Elephant Camp is a paradise for wildlife and nature lovers and wildlife photographers. Established in 1972, elephants are trained at the camp and has lured tourists for its exciting wildlife experiences.

How to Reach

  • Coimbatore is the nearest airport (140 km) and is well connected to major cities in the country. There are buses from Bangalore and Chennai, and the nearest railway station is in Mysore (90 km).

McLeod Ganj

Mcleodganj is a stunning suburb located in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. It is snuggled at the foot of Dhauladhar ranges and lures both Indian and foreign travellers, who want to explore Tibetan culture, the melange of Tibetan, Italian, Israeli, and Indian cuisines, and learn yoga and meditation. The soaring snow-capped peaks, enthralling scenic beauty, soothing ambience and solemn sounds of ringing bells and chanting makes it an abode of profound peace and harmony.

Things to Do

  • The untouched Bhagsu Falls is set amidst pristine scenery and offers a marvellous glimpse that leaves everyone spellbound. The Bhagsunath Temple situated close to falls is worth visiting.

  • The Namgyal Monastery offers an unparalleled mystic aura and spiritual experience.

  • The mountainous terrain of McLeod Ganj is a favourite spot for trekkers that offers Triund Trek, Minkiani Pass Trek, and Kareri Lake Trek.

  • The Masrur Rock-cut Temple is perfect for those interested in archaeology that boasts of monolithic structures similar to those found in Ellora and Mahabalipuram.

How to Reach

  • Kangra airport is about 15 km from McLeod Ganj, and there are flights from Delhi and other major cities in India. There are taxi and bus services from Delhi that take about 10 to 13 hours to reach Dharamshala that is 6 km from McLeod Ganj. The railway station at Pathankot is the nearest one.

Ziro

The balmy climate, captivating surroundings, cradle of impressive Apatani tribal group is what you can experience in Ziro, a quaint old town located in Arunachal Pradesh. It is a perfect place just to sit back, unwind, and immerse yourself in the perfect settings. The climate is pleasant all through the year and hence ideal for traveling any time of the year. The locals organize music festival every year that encourages people to bond over the diverse musical culture. If you are looking for a colourful destination veiled by the carpeted green vegetation, lush grasslands, then Ziro would be an ultimate getaway.

Things to Do

  • Talley Wildlife Sanctuary is home to endangered clouded leopards. It also displays the stunning spectrum of flora and fauna.

  • You can also indulge in several trekking opportunities that this town offers.

  • The other prominent attractions include Bamboo Grove, Tarin Fish Farms, and Meghna Cave Temple.

How to Reach

  • Lilabari is the nearest airport, but Guwahati would be the right place to fly and then travel by road to this stunning place. Overnight buses are available from Guwahati.

Devikulam

Devikulam is a splendid hill station situated about 8 km from Munnar in Kerala. The sheer picturesque grandeur of the place mesmerizes anyone. The idyllic location is blessed with breath-taking locales, gushing waterfalls, unique flora and fauna, velvety lawns, and Sita Devi lake. This sacred water body attracts a lot of tourists as it is believed to have curative powers.

Things to Do

  • Pallivasal Waterfalls, Marayur Sandal Forest, and Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary are perfect locales for nature lovers.

  • Mangalam Devi Temple Ruins offer magnificent views. The Mattupetty Lake nestled amidst tea estates gives a picturesque glimpse of misty hills surrounding the place.

  • There are ample opportunities for trekking and rock climbing. Also, the Sita Devi Lake is famous for trout fishing.

How to Reach

  • Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport, which is about 111 km on Aluva-Munnar Road. Aluva is the nearest railway station to about 112 km.

Kinnaur

Himachal Pradesh, situated in the western Himalayas, is an epitome of natural splendour. Kinnaur is a gem of this state that is dotted with lush green valleys, snow-capped mountains, quaint alpine villages, and picturesque vineyards and orchards. This ‘Land of Fairy tales’ is a perfect destination whether you are looking for a spiritual retreat, adventure, or laid-back vacation. If you want to reconnect with nature, then a visit to the beautiful hamlets of Kinnaur is a must. These villages perched at higher altitudes of Himalayas provides hypnotizing glimpse of fruit orchards, the vibrant carpet of wildflowers, undulating meadows, and magical milieu of milky white hill ranges.

Things to Do

  • Sangla Valley is an adventure hub offering paragliding, fishing, and river rafting. It is also a popular spot for trekkers. Kinnaur Kailash Trekking gives a splendid trekking experience to trekking buffs.

  • As Kinnaur is close to the Tibetan region, you can witness colourful monasteries. Narayana-Nagini Temple, located in Kalpa, showcases beautiful Himachali architecture.

  • Rakcham Chitkul Sanctuary is sure to leave wildlife enthusiasts with an exhilarating experience.

How to Reach

  • There are daily buses from Chandigarh and Delhi to Kinnaur. The nearest railway station and airport are located in Shimla.

Tawang

The land of Monks – Tawang is situated in the northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh. It is a perfect place to explore during summer, especially if you love visiting historical sites and Buddhist monasteries. This untouched nature retreat is truly a hidden gem of Arunachal Pradesh. The place is blessed with stunning scenic beauty and is enclosed by lush coniferous trees, valleys, hills, and pleasant climate make this place absolutely blissful and perfect for those looking forward to spending their holidays in a peaceful destination.

Things to Do

  • Tawang Monastery, Nuranang Waterfall, Shonga-Tser Lake, and Taktsang Gompa Monastery are the main attractions.

  • Located at 6,858 m, Gorichen Peak hike is one of the top attractions and ideal for adventure seekers as they can enjoy hiking unclaimed peaks for a rewarding experience. It is about 164 km from Tawang.

  • Tibetan Settlement Market has roadside shacks and shops that sell traditional handicrafts.

How to Reach

  • The nearest airport is at Tezpur, but it is recommended to fly to Airport at Guwahati and then travel by road. Taxi services and overnight buses are available from Guwahati.

An Important Tip: Keeping Your House Safe While You’re Away for Long

Protecting your home while on vacation is just as important and protecting things you bring with you. There are several ways you can do this.

  • Check your household insurance: Make sure the cover you have is valid while you’re away. Check for any exclusions in the policy that may render it void. For instance, if you’re away for more than a certain number of days, if it's valid if you have a house-sitter and so on.

  • Don’t leave your house looking unoccupied: Mow the lawn before you leave, bring in washing from the line, cancel milk and newspaper subscriptions, and leave the curtains open. You can also install a light on a timer that gets turned on in the evening.

  • Get a home monitoring system: Opt for a home security system that allows you to view the live video remotely. This is an expensive investment but worth the investment for the peace of mind.

  • Leave a key with a family member: You can have a trusted person stop by every day or two. They can take care of your unexpected courier packages, water your plants, bring the trash out, and so on.

  • Lock up valuables in a safe: Leave your valuables in a small safe and keep them secure. If shelling out money for a safe isn’t an option, then hide them in unusual places like the kitchen pantry or bathroom closet.

  • Don’t advertise your vacation on social media: Don’t post anything about your vacation before leaving, and if you do, make sure your address isn’t there on it. Delete Facebook posts, party invites, and so on that may put your home at risk.
Writer
Malathi
Malathi is a freelance content writer offering blogging, ghost-writing, and copywriting services. In addition to developing digital marketing content, she maintains niche websites related to kids, parenting, and pregnancy. Malathi's works have been featured on several prominent blogs and websites. When she is not writing, you will find her exploring exotic locales on our beautiful planet.

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Summers Truly are the Best Time for Travelling!

There are a plethora of reasons why summers make the best time for travelling. Thanks to the summer weather, packing is simpler, as you will need lighter fabric, and bulky items can be avoided. This makes space for souvenirs and gifts that you can buy from the destination. The summer season also allows vacationers to relax on the beach, enjoy water sports, and there are more places open during this period that you can take complete advantage of. So, take some time off from your hectic schedule this summer and indulge in summer adventure and sightseeing.