Summer arrives with massive force in the subcontinent, but it brings along some hearty cheer for travel freaks and people who love using #Wanderlust on their social profiles. But not every place is conducive to such mega loads of arriving tourists, the Shimla water crises might have scared off even the choicest of Himachal Pradesh admirers. Here are some handpicked destinations in India, where the youth can celebrate, explore and experience the best phase of their lives!
Dharamshala
Unlike more touristy places like Shimla, this place has the perfect balance between unending natural beauty and hippy culture. If you want a quaint yet bubbling place, find a comfortable hostel or home-stay in Dharamkot, which is only a few minutes from the main town. A mesmerizing trek to Triund will take your breath away, while the superlative European cuisine found at pocket friendly prices is a big plus.
Must Visit – Shiva Café, a trademark joint which can be reached by hiking through a rather exciting path will blow your mind, and that’s a guarantee!
Kodaikanal
This South Indian hill station, nested in Tamil Nadu is a traveler’s dream when it comes to spending your summers. The sweltering heat will vanish as you set foot here and walk along the star shaped iconic Kodai Lake surrounded by lush evergreen forests. Many people are known to have experienced psychedelic offerings here, but the food and drive will more than fulfill your appetite for surrealism. Accommodations are a plenty and other sites like waterfalls, caves, hikes and cycling around the lake will keep you happy and healthy!
Must Visit – The market which houses homemade chocolate vendors. You cannot pack enough for people back home and you might just stay an extra day fulfilling your chocolate dreams.
Ladakh
This is at the top of any person’s list and needs no introduction, but visiting it is the only way to truly experience this heavenly kingdom. A road trip or a flight to Leh can reach you to Ladakh. In this land of Monasteries and the seat of Buddhism, enjoy the staggering views of the Pangong Tso lake and Zanskar Valley. Relish some local cuisine and as AirBnB says ‘Live there’ to assimilate what this land has to offer.
Must Visit – A bike ride to Khardung La Pass is a once in a lifetime experience, the very act of it is unparalleled and should be on your list!
Nainital
If lakes are your thing, look no further, because this land of beautiful lakes in Uttarakhand will fulfill all your needs. Surrounded by forested lands of Kumaon, it has a plethora of places to visit but Naini lake and the Nainital Zoo stand out. Watch beautiful sunrises and sunsets, enjoy the local food and go for endless hikes and adventure activities.
Must Visit – Saat Taal, the lake with seven corners can be explored by crossing the lake in a boat. The resort on the other side is what will mesmerize your senses.
Munnar
God’s own country Kerala offers this majestic hill station, where the perfect climate and lush hills make it a divine abode. The tea plantations and views will keep you busy, while being amidst nature and observing it up close through shikaras and elephant rides makes it an affair to remember.
Must Visit – Live in a tree house in Munnar and you will find you literally rising above all things human!
