Top Tourist Places to Visit in India in June & July

The month of June and July is the time when the season for summer holidays in India reaches its crescendo. With schools and colleges closing at this time of year, June and July also becomes best time for family holidays in India. Since it is also the peak of summer season in India with monsoon in the offing, there are quite a few places where one could travel to for a fulfilling summer holiday in India.

To seek respite from the scorching sun and humidity, hill stations are the most favored tourist places in India to travel in summer. A bulk of the popular hill stations in India are in the North and North Eastern India, but West and South India also have fair share of some equally magnificent hill stations to go for summer vacations in India. Surprisingly even the desert kingdom of Rajasthan has a hill station for you to plan your break.

But there is more to summer holidays in India than hills.

Have you had enough of the hills? How about going scuba diving and snorkeling this June? Would you love to explore the pristine coasts and tropical islands with rich coral life, verdant forests and unspoiled landscapes?

Read on and find out the best places to visit in June in India to plan a summer holiday of your liking.

Ooty: The Queen of Hills

The emerald lake in the Nilgiri Hills near Ooty

Nestled in the between the Nilgiri Hills, Ooty is a one of the best hill stations in South India to be visited during the month of June. The picturesque hill station surrounded by lush countryside, greets you with a pleasant weather and an abundance of places of interests to explore.

[Also check out 5 popular hill stations in India]

Things to do in Ooty visit attractions like Botanical Gardens, Rose Gardens, The Tea Factory, Echo Rock, Doddabetta Peak, Dolphin's Nose, Sims Park, Annamalai Temple, Hidden Valley, Wax Museum, and many more. Adding the element of comfort and luxury, there are various hotels, inns, guesthouses, and resorts available.

[Read more about Ooty]

Munnar: Spices and Plantations

Munnar is renowned for its emerald tea plantation and sublime vistas

One of the most popular hill stations in South Indian state of Kerala, Munnar is favored honeymoon destination in India. With its scenic locales, vast stretches of emerald tea plantations & forests, pervading calm and fascinating views, Munnar attracts family vacationers and romantic couples alike.

Things to do in Munnar include tea tours, spice tours, nature walks, visit to Tea Museum and hikes along the nearby trails in the Western Ghats. If you are visiting Munnar for your holidays in June, you could include the nearby sights such as Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, Attukal Waterfalls and Top Station.

Plan your summer holiday with this 6 days Munnar tour package that also include trip to Ooty, Thekkady (Periyar National Park) and Kumarakom.

[Read more about Munnar here]

Also check out 5 best places to visit in Kerala.

Lakshadweep: The Tropical Paradise

Kadmat Islands in Lakshadweep is one of the most secluded one and offers good snorkeling opportunities

Literally meaning ‘hundred thousand islands’, Lakshadweep located 400 kilometers off Indian coast in Arabian Sea, is one of the most off the beaten path destinations in India. There are in fact only 36 islands comprising India’s smallest union territory out of which 3 - Agatti, Kadmat and Bangaram Island - are open to foreign tourists. However a permit is required by both Indians and foreigners for visit to Lakshadweep which could are issued from Kochi.

Lakshadweep Islands is one of the best places in India for scuba diving and snorkeling. Various water sport activities are also available at Kadmat, Bangaram and Agatti Island.

The charm of these islands lies in their remoteness from the mainland making them crowd free and less ‘touristy’. Then there are turquoise corals, pristine coastline dotted with coconut palms and stretches of beige sand that conjures postcard perfect moments.

[Check out this 6 days Lakshadweep tour package at IndianHoliday.com]

Ladakh: The Land of Lamas

At an awe inspiring altitude of more than 14,000 feet, Pangong Lake is one of the top attractions in Ladakh

Ladakh is one of the best destinations in India to travel to in summer and during the entire monsoon season. Bereft of rain as it is, Ladakh is favored among the adventure and thrill seekers as the highway to this himalayan kingdom opens up in May. June is the best time to visit Ladakh if you want to avoid the crowd in Leh.

Amazing rock formations, ancient Buddhist culture, some of the highest motorable passes in the world, and turquoise high altitude lakes are the major allure of Ladakh.

Likir Monastery against the awe inspiring landscape of Ladakh

Things to do in Ladakh may include visits to Pangong Lake, Tso Mori Ri Lake, Nubra Valley, Lamayuru, Padum, Kargil and the confluence of River Indus and Zanskar.

Some of the important Buddhist Monasteries to visit in Ladakh for a glimpse on ancient Buddhist cultural traditions are the Hemis , Thiksey, Lamayuru Monastery, Diskit Monastery, Shey, Rizong and Likir among others.

[Check out 5 top places to visit in Ladakh]

Several world famous trekking routes starts from Ladakh and draws visitors from around the world to this Himalayan wonder which include the Frozen River or Chadar Trek and Markha Valley Trek.

[Check out Ladakh holiday packages at LehLadakhIndia.com]

Ayurveda in Kerala

Kerala is one of the top places for Ayurvedic therapies and spa in India

Kerala is known for so many things and it has also been rated as one of the "top 50 places to visit in the world in a lifetime" by National Geographic Traveller. There are world class beaches including Kovalam which has been rated as one of the top 10 beaches in India and then there is abundant wildlife at Periyar. But what beats them all is the lure of Ayurvedic therapies that draws visitors from around the world to Kerala.

Perhaps the best time to visit Kerala especially if you are looking forward to ayurvedic therapies and spa is upon the arrival of Monsoon. Based on the ancient science of healing and rejuvenation, Ayurveda is practiced at its authentic best at some of the finest Ayurveda resorts in India.

The reason why we recommend July as the best time to visit Kerala is that arrival of monsoon makes Kerala a relatively quieter place. It is the time of healing and rejuvenation as well as honeymoon and romance as the rains lashes “God’s own Country” and the palm fringed backwaters, emerald tea plantations and lush paddy field exude an aura of fertility and renewal.

[Also check out top places to go for honeymoon in India]

And this is why monsoon happens to be the best time to visit Kerala for Ayurveda and rejuvenation.

For Ayurvedic massages and therapies, it is best to visit Kerala during monsoon especially in July and August

One of the best ways to experience the July monsoon in Kerala is to take refuge in one of the tree houses. Tree houses are recent eco-friendly initiative to boost tourism in Kerala. For a combination of tranquility and seclusion with rejuvenating Ayurvedic therapies, we’d recommend Vythiri Resort in Wayanad.

The Tree House at Vythiri Wayanad in Kerala

Hovering 30 meters above a rainforest canopy Vythiri is a romantic place where the lazy mornings are spent bird-watching and the rest of the day keep you busy with a lots of adventure activities like hiking with a naturalist and you should have a reason to rejoice as all these things come “on the house”.

[Book your stay in Vythiri Resort Wayanad]

Don’t forget to attend SPLASH, a cultural fest organized by the Wayanad's tourism department, a monsoon carnival in July at Kalpetta. Highlights include local sports like vadamvali (tug-of-war), kabaddi (a team game similar to "tag"), archery, slow cycle races, crab tours, rock climbing, marathons, rafting and mud football.

Gangtok: The Hidden Himalayan Secret

Tsongmo Lake or Changu Lake is a glacial lake in the East Sikkim, India, some 40 kilometres (25 mi) away from Gangtok at altitude of 3,780 m (12,400 ft)

Gangtok buzzes with tourists from far off places due to extremely pleasant weather during the month of June. This place is the perfect destination for vacations on the nature trail. The Kanchenjunga, the mountain peak, serves some of the amazing views of the area. Along with enjoying the vacations between the hills, you may also visit the Rumtek Monastery, Enchey Monastery, Do-drul Chorten, and Dodrupchen Monastery.

The place is highly under the influence of Buddhist monasteries. The place is also perfect for adventure seekers as they can involve in various activities like trekking. There also are various hotels, inns, guesthouses, etc., to provide comfortable accommodation during the stay in Gangtok.

[Check out this 7 days Gangtok tour package to plan your summer holiday]

Darjeeling: Magnificent Vistas and the Toy Train

The breathtaking view of Darjeeling town against the backdrop of resplendent Himalayas

Take a tour to Darjeeling in the month of June to enjoy a replenished vacation. Along with the pleasant weather, the place serves you with excellent views and amazing trip in the lap of nature. At the Tiger Hills, you may take pleasure in enjoying a beautiful view of the dawn.

The place is also praised for exotic flora and fauna at Himalayan Zoo. Also take time to visit Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Buddhist Monasteries, Japanese Peace Pagoda, Rock Garden, etc. Here, you can also enjoy wonderful Darjeeling Mountain Railways fondly referred to as the 'toy train' inscribed by UNESCO as World Heritage Site.

World Heritage Darjeeling Mountain Railways at crossing Batasia Loop

One of the top things to do in Darjeeling is the tea plantation tour where you can even learn the art of authentic tea making. Glenburn Tea Estate is one such place to go to.

[Check out this 4 days Darjeeling tour package at IndianHoliday.com]

Andaman Islands: A Tropical Bliss

Swimming Elephants of Andaman Islands are now only exist in Havelock

In Havelock Island one could go snorkeling with swimming elephant as their companion

Steeped in history and home to ancient tribes, Andaman is one of the popular honeymoon destinations in India. Tropical islands, rich marine life, unspoiled corals, pristine forests and creamy beaches are the major draw of Andaman.

Although Port Blair has become a crowded tourist place, Havelock with its secluded beaches, water sport activities like scuba diving and snorkeling is the place to be. Radha Nagar Beach in Havelock Island is considered to be the best place to go for snorkeling in India.

Barefoot Scuba at Havelock Island is the highest rated PADI dive resort in Andaman

Other things to do in Andaman include visit to the historical Cellular Jail where freedom fighters were kept in exile by British and which gave the Andaman its dreaded name ‘Kala Pani’ (Black Waters).

[Check out this 7 days Andaman tour package]

Or read more about Andaman.

Valley of Flowers, Uttarakhand

Valley of Flowers National Park is an Indian national park, located in West Himalaya, in the state of Uttarakhand and is known for its meadows of endemic alpine flowers and the variety of flora

Well, not much to say about this place to recommend this to as one of the best destinations in India to visit in July. It’s a part of UNESCO World Heritage Site and it remains open to visitors only for 3 months. With more than 300 varieties of flora and fauna in full bloom in the valley, the month of July and August is the best time to visit the Valley of Flower in Uttarakhand.

As if the beauty of this verdant paradise is not enough, the trekking trail which may include Hemkund Sahib if you want it; is a breathtaking venture into one of the most pristine stretches of Himalayas. That the camping is not allowed here and that you have to enter Valley of Flower after sunrise and leave it before sunset says a lot about the conservation efforts of the authorities who are working hard to keep this paradise from being lost.

Binsar: Back to Nature

The 300 km view of Himalayas from the Zero Point at Binsar

The spectacular panorama of the 5 mighty Himalayan peaks from Zero Point in Binsar

Located in the Kumaon Himalaya in Uttaranchal 25 kilometers from Ranikhet, Binsar is a verdant paradise for those seeking the rejuvenating touch of nature. Situated on a ridge overlooking great Himalayan peaks inside Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, this small hill town is best visited for tranquil retreat, nature walks and panoramic views of the mighty Himalayan peaks.

One of the less hidden weekend getaways from Delhi, Binsar is ideal for family summer holidays in India. One of the must to do things in Binsar is trip to Zero Point. This point offer panoramic view of some of the majestic Himalayan Peaks including Chaukhamba, Panchachuli, Nanda Devi, Kedarnath and Nanda Kot.

[Check out this extended Uttarakhand tour package that include trip to Almora, Binsar, Ranikhet and Kausani]

Kodaikanal: Of Spices and Teas

The lush tea plantations and scenic vistas make Kodaikanal one of the popular places to visit in June for summer holiday in South India

Meaning ‘gift of the forest’, Kodaikanal is a scenic hill station located in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Perched on lofty hills and surrounded by lush forest in the Western Ghats, Kodaikanal is renowned for majestic panoramas, waterfalls and emerald lakes. Promenades are rewarding at this hill station. With its romantic ambience and colonial charm, Kodaikanal is one of the popular places for honeymoon in India.

[Getting married soon? Here's top 5 honeymoon destinations in India in summer]

Upper Lake in Kodaikanal surrounded by lush hills and forests

Some of the things to do in Kodaikanal include Coakers Walk with fascinating views of the valley, visit to Sacred Heart Natural Science Museum, Moir’s Point, Berijam Lake and horse riding at Kodai Lake.

Check out this 8 days ultimate South Indian hill station tour package which includes visit to Kodaikanal, Ooty, Munnar and Kochi.

Dalhousie: Communion with Nature

A view of Hills in Dalhousie

Yet another of the hill station eastablished by British, Dalhousie with its verdant pine forests and majestic views of distant Himalayas is one of the top places to visit in India in June and entire summer. It is a welcome break from the other crowded hill stations in Himachal Pradesh like Shimla, McLeodganj and Manali.

The tranquil vibe of Dalhousie is best enjoyed through promenades with fascinating view of the valley and lush surroundings. The colonial charm of Dalhousie is evident in its Raj era buildings and churches. Things to do in Dalhousie include visits to St. Francis and St. James Church and yet another stroll to behold the Painted rock carvings done by Tibetan refugees depicting Buddhist deities.

[Browse through 39 summer holiday packages in Himachal Pradesh]

Nainital: Lakes and Hills

Naini Peak, Nainital, Uttarakhand

Named after the Naini Lake, this hill station located close to Delhi is one of the most popular weekend getaways from Delhi. It is also an ideal location for family holidays in summer in India. Located at an altitude of 1,938 meters, Nainital was a popular summer retreat established by British.

Favorable weather and a host of activities like boating, nature walks, cable car rides, rock climbing and strolls down the mall makes it suitable to all kind of visitors. Nainital could be visited round the year except for the months of monsoon.

[check out 91 more ideas for weekend getaways from Delhi at IndianHoliday.com]

Mount Abu: An Oasis in the Desert

Located close to Gujarat border, Mount Abu in Rajasthan is a much sought after hill station of Gujaratis who prefer to taste drinks stronger than lassi

The only hill station in Rajasthan, Mount Abu is renowned for its picturesque scenery, emerald lake, glorious vistas and spectacular Jain Temples in Delwara. Located at an altitude of 1,220 meters, Mt Abu is a favorite hill station flocked by Rajasthani, Gujratis and steady stream of foreign visitors. This hill station in Rajasthan is a favored family holiday destination in India.

[Check out some more ideas for family summer holidays in India]

Things to do in Mount Abu include visits to Jain and Hindu temples (there are more than 80 of them), Nakki Lake, Toad Rock and wildlife sanctuary. The best time to visit Mt Abu is June and it also happens to be one of the places to visit in India during monsoon even in July and August.

[Check out 10 more places to visit in India during monsoon]

Recommended: Best place to visit near India in June

Bhutan: The Land of Thunder Dragon

Bhutan is one of the last Himalayan Kingdom that remain intact to this day

Bhutan, a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The place is dotted with numerous monasteries that are worth visiting. The Taktsang Monastery is one of the most pristine Buddhist monasteries in the Bhutan. Kurje Lhakhang is a temple that showcases exquisite architecture.

Taksang Monastery, popularly known as the Tiger's Nest is one of the most awe inspiring sights in Bhutan

The place also has Dzongs, erstwhile fortress, like Trongsa Dzong, Gasa Dzong, Shigatse Dzong, Drukgyal Dzong, Singye Dzong, Kagyu-Dzong, Tsechen Monastery and Dzong, Gonggar Dzong, Lhuentse Dzong, etc., that serve panoramic view of the place. For the adventure seekers, the place is also perfect for trekking. The hotels, guesthouses, inns, etc., are also available to serve comfortable stay during your vacations.

[Check out this 6 days Bhutan tour package]

Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh

Camping and trekking are popular amongst adventure enthusiasts when they answer the call to visit Spiti Valley

After Ladakh, Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh is one of the best places to visit in India in July and throughout monsoon. Bereft of rain even during monsoon and with its barren beauty and high altitude lakes and a lot of trekking ops, Spiti is one of the best places in India to visit during the month of Jily, August and September.

Trans Himalayan treks kile Tabo to Tso Mori Ri in Ladakh and the trek to Chandra Tal are some of the most popular things to do in Spiti.

Key Monastery in Lahul Spiti, Himachal Pradesh

The lowest point in Spiti valley is 11,000ft and many villages lie as high as 14,000ft. In spite of the the harsh landscape and difficult living conditions, Spiti valley with its breathtaking scenery and rich Buddhist cultural heritage that include some spectacular monasteries offers a sense of tranquility and awesomeness that could only be bettered by a visit to the nearby Ladakh in Jammu and Kashmir.

Where will you go? Did we miss any name that should have been on the list? We'd be glad to know your thought through the comment section below.

And here are some Himachal Tour Packages if you are interested in making a trip to this magical land this summer or monsoon for your holidays!