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With temperatures rising beyond 40 degrees Celsius, summertime in Delhi can get quite hot and even unbearable. This is why the summer season is the best time to plan a holiday away from the capital city to escape to a destination with much nicer weather! There are quite a few places to visit in summer near Delhi, especially hill stations, so you won’t have any problems finding one that best suits what you’re looking for.
15 Places To Visit In Summer Near Delhi To Beat The Heat
The following is a comprehensive list of 15 places to visit in summer near Delhi for a refreshing and fun vacation with your loved ones:
1. Shimla
Photo: Navneet Sharma / Wikimedia Commons
The capital of Himachal Pradesh and also the summer capital of erstwhile British India, Shimla is a very popular tourist destination during the summer season. It is a picturesque hill station that boasts of beautiful colonial charm, stunning peaks, sprawling sanctuaries, quaint cafes and of course, pleasant weather. This destination also has a few religious sites that one can visit, be it temples or churches. Moreover, it is known for its shops that sell a variety of local jewellery, handicrafts, warm shawls as well as woollens, and much more.
Major Attractions: The Ridge, Visceral Lodge, Kalka Shimla Toy Train, Mall Road, Chadwick Falls, Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary, Kali Bari Temple etc.
Best Time To Visit: March to June
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 4 days
Nearest Airport: Shimla Airport, Jubbarhatti
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Shimla
2. Kufri
Photo: Jeyasree S.B / Wikimedia Commons
Kufri is another one of Himachal Pradesh’s famous hill stations, situated a short distance away from Shimla. Although the winter season is the best time to visit Kufri owing to snowfall, it makes for an excellent summer getaway from Delhi. It is known for its beautiful colonial architecture since it was once a retreat for the Britishers and also features several challenging trekking trails that are ideal for adventurous souls! Kufri’s dense vegetation is home to diverse flora and fauna that are a must-see too. You can also take a day trip to the nearby Chail.
Major Attractions: Kufri Zoo, Green Valley, Kufri Fun World, Mahasu Peak, Chini Bangla, Indira Tourist Peak, Skiing, Yak riding etc.
Best Time To Visit: November to March
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Shimla Airport, Jubbarhatti
3. Dharamshala
Photo: Wojciech Kocot / Wikimedia Commons
Dharamshala, nestled amidst the Dhauladhar range, is one of the best places to visit in summer near Delhi since it offers an unforgettable cultural experience. This serene hill station in Himachal Pradesh is home to the Dalai Lama and is synonymous with Tibetan culture. Dharamshala was quite popular among the Britishers and is frequented by people today for its temples, monasteries, waterfalls, snowy mountains, museums and delectable food. You mustn’t miss out on its expansive tea gardens. Perhaps you can also take a trip to the nearby McLeodganj.
Major Attractions: Dalai Lama Temple, Dharamshala Cricket Stadium, Triund, War Memorial, Bhagsu Falls, St. John in the Wilderness Church etc.
Best Time To Visit: February to July
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 4 days
Nearest Airport: Kangra Airport
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Dharamshala On Your Next Vacation
4. Mussoorie
Photo: Manasarya92 / Wikimedia Commons
Mussoorie in Uttarakhand is a breathtaking hill station that is also referred to as the “Queen of Hill Stations.” It offers stellar views of the Shivalik ranges as well as that of Doon Valley and is an absolute treat for nature lovers. Mussoorie’s lush greenery, cool weather, gushing waterfalls, impressive colonial architecture and so much more draw in large crowds of visitors each year. Its many cafes and restaurants are worth checking out, as are its various vendors selling local goods that make for excellent souvenirs.
Major Attractions: Kempty Falls, Dalai Hills, Camel’s Back Road, Mall Road, Jharipani Falls, Jwala Devi Temple, Shedup Choepelling Temple, Mussoorie Lake etc.
Best Time To Visit: March to June
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
5. Rishikesh
Photo: Ajay Tallam / Wikimedia Commons
Not only a beautiful hill station but also one of India’s holiest destinations, Rishikesh in Uttarakhand is surely worth visiting. It is situated where the rivers Ganga and Chandrabhaga converge and is termed the “Yoga Capital of the World.” It houses different temples and ashrams and is renowned for its aartis along the Ganga river. Many sadhus here teach yoga, meditation and other such activities. Furthermore, Rishikesh is also great for adventure seekers since activities like river rafting, bungee jumping, cliff jumping etc. are famous here.
Major Attractions: Lakshman Jhula, Triveni Ghat, The Beatles Ashram, Kaudilya, Bharat Mandir, Muni ki Ret etc.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 4 days
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Rishikesh
6. Ranikhet
Photo: Harshit SR / Wikimedia Commons
Ranikhet, which translates to “Queen’s Land,” is a tranquil and picturesque hill station in Uttarakhand that was established during British rule. It is the perfect place to visit in summer near Delhi since it has pleasant weather during this time and is also known for its vast orchards, old temples, bustling markets, exciting trekking trails and gorgeous views of the Nana Devi mountain. Furthermore, it serves as the headquarters of the Indian Army’s Kumaon Regiment.
Major Attractions: Majhkali, Golf Course, Dwarahat, Jhula Devi Temple, Chaubatia Orchards, Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum etc.
Best Time To Visit: March to June
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport
7. Mukteshwar
Photo: Sanjoyg / Wikimedia Commons
Looking to escape the sweltering Delhi heat? Visit Mukteshwar in Uttarakhand which is an idyllic hill station with cool weather and abundant natural bounty. Located close to Nainital, it owes its name to a temple that is over 350 years old and it is also believed that Lord Shiva slayed a demon here. It is best known for its sprawling orchards, numerous trekking and hiking trails, lush green meadows, dense forests and outstanding views of the Himalayas.
Major Attractions: Chauli ki Jaali, Mukteshwar Dham Temple, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Paragliding, Rock climbing etc.
Best Time To Visit: March to June
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Mukteshwar
8. Dalhousie
Photo: Karanparekh2298 / Wikimedia Commons
The “Little Switzerland of India,” Dalhousie is undoubtedly one of the places to visit in summer near Delhi since its cool climate offers respite from the capital city’s heat. Its valleys featuring pine forests, stellar views of the Himalayas, colonial architecture, cascading waterfalls and more make it a wonderful tourist destination, especially for honeymooners. Don’t forget to stop by its markets to find souvenirs like woollens, shawls, Tibetan handicrafts and more.
Major Attractions: Satdhara Falls, Chamera Lake, Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, Panchpula, Dainkund Peak, St. John’s Church, Sach Pass etc.
Best Time To Visit: March to June
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Kangra Airport
9. McLeodganj
Photo: Sridhar Rao / Wikimedia Commons
McLeodganj is often visited alongside Dharamshala and is synonymous with a rich Tibetan culture given that it is home to the Dalai Lama and also the seat of the exiled Tibetan Government. It is called Little Lhasa and there are numerous temples and monasteries here that you must visit. Besides its culture, McLeodganj is also famous for its dense forests, waterfalls, cafes, Tibtena institutes, museums and more. Trekking routes through scenic locations also draw in visitors.
Major Attractions: Bhagsu Falls, Namgyal Monastery, Dharamkot, Shiva Cafe, Norbulingka Institute, Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts, Kalachakra Temple etc.
Best Time To Visit: March to June
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Kangra Airport or Gaggal Airport
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In McLeodganj
10. Morni Hills
Photo: Manojkhurana / Wikimedia Commons
Located neither in Uttarakhand nor in Himachal Pradesh, Morni Hills is a hill station near Chandigarh in Haryana. It also happens to be the state’s only hill station. If you’re looking for a quick getaway from Delhi, this is the place for you! Morni Hills is ideal for family picnics owing to its serenity and pretty views of nature. This destination is also home to rich biodiversity and is therefore wonderful for bird watching. Moreover, it is of great archaeological significance too since carvings that go all the way back to the 7th century were found here.
Major Attractions: Morni Lake, Morni Fort, Tikkar Lake, Trekking, Boating, Thakurdwara Temple, Camping etc.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
Nearest Airport: Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport, Chandigarh
11. Manali
Photo: Vinay Jilowa / Unsplash
With a symphony of natural beauty including emerald-green valleys, snow-clad mountains, and lush forests of oak, deodar, and pine, Manali is one of the scenic places to visit in summer near Delhi for family. From marvelling at the Solang Valley and offering prayers at Hadimba Devi Temple to soaking in the scenic beauty of Rohtang Pass, there’s a lot to explore here. It is also known for its culinary extravaganza. Furthermore, Manali is also an excellent spot for trekking, rafting, skiing, paragliding, horse-riding, and zorbing.
Major Attractions: Rohtang Pass, Hadimba Temple, Solang Valley, Manu Temple
Best Time To Visit: October to February
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 5 days
Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport
Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Manali
12. Auli
Photo: Aniket Mandish / Unsplash
Auli, renowned for its verdant meadows, ski slopes, and snow-capped mountains, is one of the picturesque places to visit in the summer season near Delhi. It is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Here, you can indulge in trekking, skiing, and camping. Trekking enthusiasts can explore trails such as the Kuari Pass Trek, a scenic trek route. Traverse through the Gurso Bugyal, take in mesmerising vistas of Trishul Peak, relish panoramic vistas of the surrounding area on an Auli ropeway, and enjoy a peaceful retreat at the Auli Artificial Lake.
Major Attractions: Auli Ski Resort, Nanda Devi and Nar Parvat,
Best Time To Visit: November to March
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 4 days
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, about 280 km away
13. Kalsi
Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons
Kalsi, tucked away in the lap of Dehradun district, is one of the best places to visit near Delhi during summer. With a treasure trove of lofty peaks, rugged hills, verdant valleys, and glistening rivers, Kalsi boasts unparalleled natural beauty. It is famous for the Ashoka Rock Edict, Asan Barrage, Dakpathar, Chakrata Hills, and more. Kalsi is an ideal abode for travellers seeking a tranquil escape with a touch of historic significance.
Major Attractions: Ashokan Rock Edict, Yamuna River views, Khalsi Fort Ruins
Best Time To Visit: October to February
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, about 105 km away
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Dehradun
14. Nainital
Photo: Supratik Deshmukh / Unsplash
Nainital, nestled in the Kumaon foothills of the outer Himalayas, is one of the charming places to visit near Delhi during summer vacation. The town encapsulates an emerald-coloured Naini Lake, green-capped peaks, lush hills, and more. It is also home to several other smaller lakes like Bhimtal, Sattal, and Naukuchiatal, each with its unique charm. For adventure enthusiasts, Nainital offers opportunities for trekking, rock climbing, and paragliding. From Tiffin Top to Snow View Point and the bustling Mall Road, there’s a lot to explore in this scenic abode.
Major Attractions:
Best Time To Visit:
Ideal Trip Duration:
Nearest Airport:
15. Kasauli
Photo: Amrinder Singh / Unsplash
Kasauli, exuding colonial-era charm, is one of the most affordable places to visit near Delhi in summer. With a misty mountain backdrop, magnificent peaks, and lush green vegetation, it is a paradise for nature lovers. Here, you can explore the Monkey Point, Toy Train Ride, Timber Trail, Mall Road, Sunset Point Kasauli, Gilbert Trail, and more. This hilly cantonment town is perfect for a weekend getaway, offering picturesque landscapes in the surroundings.
Major Attractions: Naini Lake, Naina Devi Temple, Mall Road
Best Time To Visit: October to February
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 4 days
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport, about 70 km away
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Kasauli
Since Delhi tends to get quite hot and humid during the summers, it is no surprise that people look to get away from the city for a few days to spend some time in cooler and more pleasant weather, perhaps amidst nature. Hill stations serve as the best destinations for a summer holiday from the capital city and given its geographical location, there are a number of such places to visit in summer near Delhi which are not too far either! So if you’re looking to plan a trip near Delhi, you don’t need to look further than TripXL!
Cover Photo: A.Savin / Wikimedia Commons
