Summer vacations are the perfect time to escape the scorching heat and explore scenic destinations. Here are some of the best summer vacation spots in India, along with approximate costs for a two-day stay, sightseeing, and food expenses. We have also included details about the nearest airport, railway station, and how to reach the destination from there.
1. Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Why Visit?
Manali is a beautiful hill station known for its cool climate, adventure sports, and breathtaking landscapes.
Approximate Costs (for 2 days per person)
- Stay: ₹3,000 – ₹5,000 (Budget to mid-range hotel)
- Food: ₹1,500 – ₹2,500
- Sightseeing: ₹2,500 (Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple, and local shopping)
- Total: ₹7,000 – ₹10,000
How to Reach?
- Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport (Kullu-Manali Airport) – 50 km from Manali
- Nearest Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station – 162 km from Manali
- Mode of Travel: From the airport or railway station, take a taxi (₹2,000 – ₹3,500) or a bus (₹300 – ₹800) to Manali.
2. Darjeeling, West Bengal
Why Visit?
Darjeeling offers lush green tea gardens, stunning views of Kanchenjunga, and pleasant weather.
Approximate Costs (for 2 days per person)
- Stay: ₹2,500 – ₹4,500
- Food: ₹1,200 – ₹2,000
- Sightseeing: ₹2,000 (Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Darjeeling Ropeway, Tea Gardens)
- Total: ₹6,000 – ₹9,000
How to Reach?
- Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport – 70 km from Darjeeling
- Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri (NJP) – 74 km from Darjeeling
- Mode of Travel: From Bagdogra/NJP, take a taxi (₹2,500 – ₹3,500) or shared cab (₹300 – ₹500 per person) to Darjeeling.
3. Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Why Visit?
Ooty is a serene hill station known for its tea plantations, gardens, and beautiful lakes.
Approximate Costs (for 2 days per person)
- Stay: ₹3,000 – ₹5,000
- Food: ₹1,500 – ₹2,500
- Sightseeing: ₹2,000 (Ooty Lake, Doddabetta Peak, Botanical Garden, Tea Estates)
- Total: ₹7,000 – ₹10,000
How to Reach?
- Nearest Airport: Coimbatore International Airport – 90 km from Ooty
- Nearest Railway Station: Mettupalayam Railway Station – 40 km from Ooty
- Mode of Travel: From Coimbatore/Mettupalayam, take a taxi (₹2,000 – ₹3,500) or a toy train (₹500 – ₹1,000) to Ooty.
4. Munnar, Kerala
Why Visit?
Munnar is a picturesque hill station with lush green tea gardens, waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuaries.
Approximate Costs (for 2 days per person)
- Stay: ₹3,000 – ₹5,500
- Food: ₹1,500 – ₹2,500
- Sightseeing: ₹2,000 (Echo Point, Mattupetty Dam, Tea Gardens, Eravikulam National Park)
- Total: ₹7,500 – ₹10,500
How to Reach?
- Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport – 110 km from Munnar
- Nearest Railway Station: Aluva Railway Station – 110 km from Munnar
- Mode of Travel: From Cochin/Aluva, take a taxi (₹2,500 – ₹4,000) or a bus (₹300 – ₹800) to Munnar.
5. Nainital, Uttarakhand
Why Visit?
Nainital is known for its serene lakes, lush green hills, and adventure activities.
Approximate Costs (for 2 days per person)
- Stay: ₹2,500 – ₹4,500
- Food: ₹1,500 – ₹2,500
- Sightseeing: ₹2,000 (Naini Lake, Snow View Point, Naina Devi Temple, Tiffin Top)
- Total: ₹6,000 – ₹9,000
How to Reach?
- Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport – 70 km from Nainital
- Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam Railway Station – 34 km from Nainital
- Mode of Travel: From Pantnagar/Kathgodam, take a taxi (₹1,500 – ₹2,500) or a bus (₹300 – ₹600) to Nainital.
6. Shillong, Meghalaya
Why Visit?
Shillong is famous for its pleasant weather, waterfalls, and vibrant local culture.
Approximate Costs (for 2 days per person)
- Stay: ₹3,000 – ₹5,500
- Food: ₹1,500 – ₹2,500
- Sightseeing: ₹2,500 (Umiam Lake, Elephant Falls, Shillong Peak, Ward’s Lake)
- Total: ₹7,000 – ₹10,500
How to Reach?
- Nearest Airport: Shillong Airport – 30 km from Shillong
- Nearest Railway Station: Guwahati Railway Station – 105 km from Shillong
- Mode of Travel: From Shillong Airport/Guwahati, take a taxi (₹2,500 – ₹3,500) or shared cab (₹500 – ₹1,000) to Shillong.
Final Thoughts
India offers a variety of breathtaking summer destinations for all kinds of travelers, from adventure seekers to nature lovers. The cost estimates can vary based on travel style, accommodation preferences, and seasonality. Plan your trip wisely, and enjoy a memorable summer vacation!
Which of these destinations is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below!
