Blog Details

10 Long Weekend Getaways in India for a Cool Summer Escape

As the summer sun blazes across India, the quest for a refreshing retreat becomes paramount. Whether you’re a city dweller seeking respite or an adventurer yearning for new horizons, India’s diverse landscapes offer the perfect escape. Here are ten handpicked destinations that promise cool climates, breathtaking views, and unforgettable experiences.

1. Manali, Himachal Pradesh – The Quintessential Mountain Retreat

Why Visit: Nestled in the Beas River Valley, Manali is a haven for those seeking both adventure and tranquility. With its snow-capped peaks, lush forests, and vibrant culture, it’s a destination that caters to all.

Highlights:

• • Explore the Solang Valley for paragliding and zorbing.

• • Visit the ancient Hadimba Temple surrounded by cedar forests.

• • Stroll through Old Manali’s quaint cafes and shops.

Best Time to Visit: May to June for pleasant weather and blooming flora.

2. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh – Serenity Amidst the Clouds

Why Visit: Perched at an elevation of 3,048 meters, Tawang offers a unique blend of spiritual heritage and natural beauty. Its remote location ensures a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle.

Highlights:

• • Marvel at the Tawang Monastery, the largest in India.

• • Witness the mesmerizing Sela Pass adorned with prayer flags.

• • Explore the tranquil Pankang Teng Tso Lake.

Best Time to Visit: April to June for clear skies and accessible roads.

3. Coorg, Karnataka – The Coffee Country

Why Visit: Often referred to as the ‘Scotland of India,’ Coorg’s rolling hills and aromatic coffee plantations provide a sensory delight. The cool climate and verdant landscapes make it a perfect summer getaway.

Highlights:

• • Tour the coffee estates and learn about the bean-to-cup journey.

• • Visit Abbey Falls, a picturesque waterfall amidst spice estates.

• • Experience the unique culture of the Kodava people.

Best Time to Visit: October to March for the best weather, though summers are also pleasant.

4. Leh-Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir – The Land of High Passes

Why Visit: For those seeking adventure and unparalleled landscapes, Leh-Ladakh offers dramatic vistas, ancient monasteries, and a chance to disconnect from the digital world.

Highlights:

• • Drive through the Khardung La Pass, one of the highest motorable roads.

• • Camp beside the serene Pangong Lake.

• • Explore the historic Leh Palace and Shanti Stupa.

Best Time to Visit: June to September when the roads are open and the weather is favorable.

5. Munnar, Kerala – Tea Gardens and Tranquility

Why Visit: Munnar’s mist-covered hills and sprawling tea plantations offer a serene escape. The cool climate and lush greenery make it a favorite among honeymooners and nature lovers.

Highlights:

• • Visit the Tea Museum to understand the region’s history.

• • Trek to Anamudi Peak, the highest in South India.

• • Explore Eravikulam National Park, home to the Nilgiri Tahr.

Best Time to Visit: September to March for clear skies and pleasant temperatures.

6. Shillong, Meghalaya – The Scotland of the East

Why Visit: Shillong’s rolling hills, colonial architecture, and vibrant music scene offer a unique blend of cultures. The city’s cool climate and natural beauty make it a refreshing summer retreat.

Highlights:

• • Boat on the pristine Umiam Lake.

• • Visit the Don Bosco Museum to delve into Northeast India’s diverse cultures.

• • Explore nearby Cherrapunjee, known for its living root bridges.

Best Time to Visit: March to June for pleasant weather and blooming landscapes.

7. Sangla Valley, Himachal Pradesh – A Hidden Gem

Why Visit: Tucked away in the Kinnaur district, Sangla Valley offers untouched beauty, apple orchards, and traditional wooden houses. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking solitude amidst nature.

Highlights

Visit the quaint village of Chitkul, the last inhabited village near the Indo-China border.

Explore Kamru Fort, a testament to the region’s rich history.

Enjoy riverside camping along the Baspa River.

Best Time to Visit: April to June for blooming orchards and clear skies.

8. Auli, Uttarakhand – The Skiing Paradise

Why Visit: While Auli is renowned for its winter sports, the summer months reveal lush meadows and panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks, making it a year-round destination.

Highlights:

• • Take the cable car ride from Joshimath to Auli for breathtaking views.

• • Trek to Gorson Bugyal, a vast alpine meadow.

• • Witness the majestic Nanda Devi and other snow-capped peaks.

Best Time to Visit: April to June for pleasant weather and clear views.

9. Darjeeling, West Bengal – The Queen of the Hills

Why Visit: Darjeeling’s old-world charm, misty mornings, and the aroma of freshly plucked tea leaves make it a dreamy summer escape. Perched on the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas, this hill station is as poetic as it is picturesque.

Highlights:

• • Ride the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

• • Sip world-famous tea at one of the many lush tea estates.

• • Watch the sunrise at Tiger Hill, where Mount Kanchenjunga lights up in gold.

• • Visit the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, home to snow leopards and red pandas.

Best Time to Visit: April to June, when the skies are clear, and the weather is just the right kind of crisp.

10. Mount Abu, Rajasthan – The Desert’s Only Hill Station

Why Visit: Who knew Rajasthan, the land of blazing heat and golden dunes, hides a cool, green escape? Mount Abu, nestled in the Aravalli Range, offers a soothing retreat with lakes, temples, and viewpoints that’ll surprise you.

Highlights:

• • Take a boat ride on Nakki Lake, surrounded by myth and hills.

• • Visit the Dilwara Temples, known for their stunning marble carvings.

• • Hike or drive up to Sunset Point and Honeymoon Point for postcard-worthy views.

Best Time to Visit: March to June, when the climate is pleasantly cool compared to the rest of Rajasthan. Perfect For: Quick road trips from Gujarat and Delhi, or anyone wanting to chill in the middle of the desert state.

Bonus Tip: How to Make the Most of Your Long Weekend Getaway

Planning a long weekend escape isn’t just about picking a destination—it’s about making it count. Here are a few quick tips to make your trip smooth and satisfying:

• • Book Early: Summer is peak season in hill stations. Hotels and transport get sold out fast.

• • Travel Light: Avoid bulky luggage, especially if you’ll be hopping between buses, jeeps, or trekking.

• • Layer Up: Even in summer, nights in the hills can get chilly. Carry at least one warm jacket or shawl.

• • Hydrate Smart: At high altitudes, dehydration can sneak up on you. Drink water regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty.

• • Be Responsible: Respect local culture, avoid littering, and choose eco-friendly stays wherever possible.

So… Where Will You Escape This Summer?

India’s geography is a gift when it comes to summer escapes. Whether you’re dreaming of sipping coffee on a misty balcony in Coorg, watching the stars dance over Pangong Lake, or catching the golden glow of Kanchenjunga from a Darjeeling hilltop—there’s a perfect long weekend waiting for you.

And the best part? You don’t need weeks off to experience them. Just a long weekend, a light backpack, and a curious heart.

This summer, trade the heat for highlands. Swap honking horns for chirping birds. Choose clouds over crowds.

Let LPO Holidays help you plan the perfect cool-weather break—custom itineraries, handpicked stays, and all the insider tips you need to explore like a local.

FAQs – Long Weekend Summer Getaways in India

Q: What are the best months for a summer escape in India? A: April to June is ideal. This is when the plains heat up, and the hill stations are at their most comfortable.

Q: Are these destinations family-friendly? A: Absolutely! Places like Munnar, Coorg, Darjeeling, and Manali are great for kids, seniors, and all age groups.

Q: I want an offbeat, less touristy place. Any suggestions? A: Go for Tawang, Sangla Valley, or Auli in the off-season. They’re serene, scenic, and wonderfully crowd-free.

Q: Are these good for solo travelers? A: Yes! Especially if you’re looking for peace, inspiration, and safe environments. Places like Shillong, Coorg, and Tawang are loved by solo wanderers.

Final Word…….

Whether you’re a mountain soul, a tea-sipper, or a road-tripper, India offers a treasure chest of cool summer destinations just waiting to be explored over a long weekend. The hills are calling, and you owe it to yourself to answer.

Don’t just survive summer. Escape it—in style.