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A messy room, full of books, clothes, towels and other unnamed ‘treasures’, four friends are sitting around a table, sleepy eyes and mostly lazed out. Typical Sunday afternoon sleepiness is in the air and then, someone says- “Let’s go somewhere, man!” and suddenly the otherwise sleepy summer afternoon transforms into an exciting adventure. Planning, packing, bookings, little tiffs and then you are out! Out of the door, the house, the familiar world and most of all the comfort zone. Make your own real life story with these 20 offbeat summer destinations that are best visited with friends!
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Ladakh
The crown of India holds a sparkling gem of many colors- That little gem encrusted in silver snow and golden skies is called Ladakh- the ‘Land of the High Passes’. Beautified by its diversities, it is one of those places who beauty cannot be described. Encompassing towering mountains, beautiful lakes, cold and hot deserts all at the same time, your eyes cannot even begin to contain all that beauty at one go.
Take your bikes and just head to Manali by a train or a bus, and then begin on the ride towards Ladakh! Wheeling your bikes along the treacherous mountain passes is an experience that is best enjoyed with your buds! After all, you need somebody to hold up when you fall, don’t you? And then laugh of course, but pick you up first!
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Sikkim
The north eastern regions of India are an epitome of untouched beauty of nature. Left to grow at their own devices, the natural wonders here have mutated into these amazing sights of immense beauty. One such unexplored and pristine destination is Sikkim, nestled in the laps of the mighty Himalayas, its earth is nourished by the sparkling waters of the Teesta River.
Some of the most beautiful treasures lie ensconced in its boundaries. It is here that you can enjoy the cascading falls, trek the vast mountains of the Himalayas, even indulge in white water rafting, Mother Nature has been especially kind to this awe inspiring destination! Relaxing on the banks of the Gurudmongar Lake, while sipping on some hot chai and Maggie is an experience that you are not likely to forget any time soon. The monasteries, the paths laden with over 200 varieties of flowers and rhododendron are best enjoyed with friends that are of the same mindset as you.
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Andaman Islands
Elephants splashing about in the pristine blue waters of the ocean, NO! I haven’t lost my mind! This is a sight that will welcome you as you set foot on the Havelock beach. Home to 52 islands, the Andaman archipelago is magical with the aquamarine waters and silvery sands that adorn the southernmost tip of the subcontinent of India. Take a break from the same old scenery of beaches to witness the colors of the Indian Ocean and untouched sand strips. Go snorkeling, dive deep in the seas and unearth the true colors of the water!
The most beautiful beach in India, Radhanagari is also spread out on these turquoise wonderlands. Need we tell you how beautiful and perfect relaxing on the beach with your friends can be? You can almost see wave after wave take away your worries and anxiety and leave you with the strange comfort of nothingness. Friends, freedom and the virgin sands of Andaman is a perfect recipe for relaxation and memories. The islands can be easily reached from Vizag, Kochi and Chennai by regular flights.
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Bhutan
Also known as the ‘Happiest Country in The World’ the name itself is enough to lure you to these strangely familiar lands. Although, it is not actually part of the India, it can be easily reached by road from Siliguri, Jalpaiguri and Phuentsholing. Sitting prettily between India and China, it is the last seat where the calm culture of the Lamas and the monks still survives in all its authenticity.
This Shangri La (Gateway to Heaven) is a mecca for every kind of tourist, be it religious, adventurous or culture enthusiast. Where the tall mountains offer solace at one hand, on the other they also stand as challenging frontiers to conquer. Be it the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, the inviting valleys, the charming cities or the chanting of the monks simply heard with closed eyes, Bhutan will surely change you as a person inside out and tie your friends to you even closer.
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Tawang
Where the summer gives in to the beauty of nature and cools down the sun- Tawang. A town in Arunachal Pradesh, once again in the northeastern part of the country. Sparsely populated, Tawang is far removed from the heat wave that plagues the country during May or June as it is usually pleasantly cool.
Nowhere else would you find such vivid varieties of orchids as you will find here, in the Tipi orchid sanctuary or the imposing yet humbling structures of monasteries that bathe you in divinity like the Tawang Monastery. Some beauties are such that words fail to do justice, Tawang is one of them. If you are looking to have out of the box experience that you will remember for the rest of your life, Tawang is the place to be.
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Pachmarhi
In an otherwise hot state of Madhya Pradesh lies a hill station that holds a charm of the time bygone, Pachmarhi. A seat of the cantonment since the British Raj, its rolling hills and inviting valleys are a breath of fresh air for those looking for a break from summer. In the untouched thickets, you will find peace that eludes you in the city life.
The gushing falls of Bee Fall, RajatPrapat, DhootAkhilesh, GuptMahadev, Dhupgarh, Apsara Falls, HandiKhoh and Chauragarh. Go exploring the primeval caves which date back to almost 10,000 years ago; you may not find treasures of gold and silver but happiness and excitement will not elude you for long.
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Khajjiar
There are some places on the map of this world that look like they have jumped out straight from a fantasy land. Khajjiar is one such destination, rightfully called the Switzerland of India. This tiny town looks like a colorful saucer that is guarded by dense forests of Devdar, oak and silver firs. To make matters even more dreamlike, right in between this paradisaical land is a small lake with lush green shores. Located close to Dalhousie,in order to appreciate its beauty you must approach it by road. Rare are places where lake, pastures and forests all come together to form one balanced ecosystem. Pack your backpacks and head out, you won’t regret it!
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Kalpa
The perfect holiday experience with friends in summer must have five ingredients; cool climate, calmness, solace, fun and memories; and all of this is in abundance at Kalpa. Of all the destinations in this list, this one is probably the one that is still under explored but is gaining importance surely and steadily. Do make the trip here, before it becomes overcrowded like the other destinations in Himachal Pradesh.
Though it can be easily reached from Shimla which is both the nearest railway station and a major town; the way that passes through Manali and the Rohtang Pass is far more scenic and beautiful. The early morning sun rays that touch the Kinner Kailash peaks around Kalpa, paint them in a glitter orange, yellow and golden glow- a sight that is unparalleled.
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Manipur
Try going on the internet and research Manipur, chances are that you will find very less data that describes the true magic and allure of this place. One of the most pristine states of India, it is also one of the most beautiful and justifies its name which means ‘The jeweled land’.
Here you will find the wonders of the Loktak, the lake with the floating ‘phumdis’ (vegetation) The lake is also home to Keibul Lamjao, the only floating national park on the phumdis. Such is the exquisiteness of this north eastern state that it is impossible to imagine what it would look like sitting in a room. Go and experience it for yourself.
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McLeod Ganj
The seat of the Tibetan cabinet in exile and His Holiness the Dalai Lama, the fascinating village of McLeod Ganj is located in Dharamshala which is a part of Himachal Pradesh. Famous for its rustic existence and free, hippy culture, it is a destination that has attracted tourists from all parts of the world to its quiet and peaceful environs and picturesque locations of this place.
Expect to see the beautiful walls painted in bright colors, quaint coffee and bookshops, interesting souvenirs, cozy home stays and just an air of quietude and laid back happiness. If you are looking to have a sojourn with nature in a 60’s style, this is the place for you guys! Mcleodganj can be easily reached from Pathankot by a taxi or a bus service. Pathankot in turn is well connected to the rest of India by a sound rail network.
ACTIVITIES: List of Things you can do in Mcleodganj
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Cherrapunji, Meghalaya
Swirling clouds, stunning landscape and scenery shrouded in a veil of mysticism of the ancient tribal chieftains, Cherrapunji is located in the green valley of Meghalaya. The gateway this city is from Shillong, the capital city of Megahalaya from where a steep road ascends to this place, which holds the distinction of being the wettest place on earth. An ideal escapade from the arid, dreary heat of the rest of India, the city has just one season, Monsoon.
If you have a taste for the extraordinary beauty of the wilderness, Cherrapunji will surprise you with dense wooded patches along the slopes. In spite of being the wettest place on earth, it does enjoy some warm days of liquid sunshine that lifts the pall of dark clouds to reveal a view that stretches as far as Bangladesh. Tufts of orchid bloom in the most unlikely of places, and the citrus smell of oranges fills the air. Wherever you go, the cascading falls of the mountains welcome your arrival with a constant whoosh-whoosh! Could there be a better place for exploration and glee? We think not!
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Horsley Hills, Andhra Pradesh
If the northern frontier of India seems too far for you to access, rest assured that Horsley Hills will be a medicine to your wanderlust. Head out on a road trip from Bangalore to this idyllic destination 180 km away. The B.Kotha Kota road connects this destination to Karnataka, quite conveniently. Famous for the groundbreaking, innovative Rishi Valley School, Horsley Hills will enchant you with the spell of majestic views of the surrounding hills.
While here, challenge your friends to some interesting adventure activities such as rappelling, trekking, rock climbing etc. Not just beauty, the destination also has an air of mysticism as it was believed to be the residence of a tribal woman, called YenuguMallammaKonda, who was believed to have been raised by elephants. Empowered with ancient magic, she used to heal the townspeople with her powers. One fine morning, the villagers woke up to see her gone and thinking she was an angel, built a temple in her honor. The approach road itself is a thing of beauty as it passes through thickets of Eucalyptus, Gulmohar and the lavender blooms of Jacaranda. Koundinya Wildlife Sanctuary is also another destination for those of you with a taste of wildlife!
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Kadmat Island, Lakshadweep
Lakshadweep, the thousand Islands, are located at an approximate distance of 200 km from the southern tip of India. In reality, there are just about 27 atolls which are each connected by ferry boats. While a flight from Kochi or Chennai will get you Agatti, it is the journey from thereon to Kadmat that will enchant you! Catch the splash of the ocean waves as you travel by a Catamaran to land on the coast of these stunning blue waters offset by the pristine white sands.
Also called, cardamom islands, the Kadamat are an excellent place for indulging in water sports to your heart’s content! Voted as one of the most beautiful island destinations in the word, Kadmat Islands have managed to stay far removed from the spoils of city life and human interference. The Bnagram islands nearby are also a great place to visit if you want to catch the bioluminescent spectacle of waves crashing on the sand banks. Have we tempted you enough? Or should we go on?
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Kalimpong
In the ancient environs of West Bengal lies a quaint hill station that is famous for its closeness to the Himalayas and an year round temperate climate. Its name? Kalimpong or the Black Spur, also translated as ‘The Ridge where we play’ in the local language. In the days when it was inhabited by tribals, this is where they would unwind with a few group games and sports after a full day’s work. Is it a sign? Yes, it is! You have to be here to experience the manifestation of nature’s blessings and indulge in some camaraderie and games!
The meeting point of the Teesta and Rangeet rivers occurs in this region and is called the ‘Lover’s Point’! How appropriate! Easily approached from the nearby hill station of Darjeeling, the road that brings you here is a destination in itself seeing as how wonderfully carved in beauty it is. Embodying all that is charming, it is also home to Dr. Graham’s Homes, a school built by a Scottish Missionary, for the European-Asian kids in the region. Replete with amiable bakeries, Scottish Cottages, Swimming pool and cozy guesthouses, the school is a must see on your list of things to do in Kalimpong! What are you waiting for? Open your maps and get going! Explore all this and more with our exclusive Darjeeling tour packages.
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Kasol
In the Parvati Valley on the banks of the river of the same name, lies the small hamlet Kasol, a laidback stopover for tourists looking for an experience of the Hippie kind. Popular amongst travelers all over the world, the beautiful places of this town will either make you fall in love instantly or put you off forever! But, knowing you guys, we think it’s an ideal getaway for a group of friends just looking to spend some beautiful times in the lap of benevolent nature while doing some trekking here and then experience the serenity of camping in Kasol Valley.
The reggae vibe of the place is further enhanced by several trekking tours in the valleys of Kasol and are a great place to interact with fellow travelers who, just like you, are mystified by the magic of Kasol! There’s no such thing as too much happiness, is there?
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Everest Base Camp, Nepal
A very popular trekking destination well known for its diversity, exotic sceneries, adventures and challenges along with the cordial reception of the Sherpa people is the Everest base camp trek. The EBC trek is the world famous trekking destination ever since it was first expedited by Sir Edmond Hilary and his group.
The easiest way to reach the EBC is to embark it from Lukla; a classic trek from here will land the trekkers amidst snow-capped mountains, rare sceneries, wild yaks, numerous valleys, rhododendron forests and splendid monasteries to reach the dream summit that stands proudly in a mystical surrounding.
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Chopta
In the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, lies a destination that is so beautiful that you have to pinch yourself to see if it’s real! Located at a height of 2,700 m it is richly embellished in beauties of snowy peaks, rich vegetation and scenic vantage points, Chopta is actually a lush meadow on the outskirts of a lush forest of rhododendron, oak and deodar.
Devriyatal, a picturesque water body in the region is famous for beautiful camping spots that are inviting and present the most amazing views of the sunrise! Tungnath, a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Shiva also showers blessings on this charming little destination. Chopta is also a gateway to the Chandershila trek which is one of the most exciting trails to undertake! Get your tents, pack your rucksack and just head to this amazing getaway that will make you forget everything!
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Mawlynnong
In the Meghalaya State to the north east of India, lies the best kept secret of Indian tourism; Mawlynnong! Know why it is famous? Because it is one of the cleanest village in Asia! Not only is it clean, it also uses the waste it generates to form manure for the crops grown in the region. Walking through the pathways, that are all neatly cobbled, it is hard to imagine a more perfect spot to beat the summer heat!
The cool breeze and the fresh, clean locales will bring out a neat freak in you that even you did not know existed! While here, do not even dare to miss the rare sight of the living root bridges. Untouched by vagaries of the human kind, they are totally natural formed out of a hundreds of years of roots entwining together and forming a pathway that is strong enough to hold atleast 50 people! Miss this, and you are sure to regret it! Located at just about a 90 km drive from Shillong, it easily reached by well-maintained roads. As beautiful as it is, we urge you to maintain the cleanliness of the village and maintain an eco-friendly lifestyle while here.
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Almora
In the beautiful “Land of Gods’ Uttarakhand lies Almora, a beautiful hill station that is blessed with views of the Himalayas unlike any other! The allure of Almora lies in its connectivity and yet remoteness from any ills of the modern city life. The hills of Almora have enticed tourists from all parts of the world for decades, most of whom come to experience the hospitality and beauty of the Kumaoni people. Delectable cuisine, proximity to the Himalayas and easy going beauty of the roads, houses and surroundings all of which combine to make it an irresistible place for you! Just pull up your socks, button up your coats and pack your bags onward to your escape from the summer heat!
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Athirapally Falls
Close your eyes and picture a respite from the scorching summers, that is beautified by the cascades of a snow white waterfall that is enveloped in the blanket of lush green! That picture you just painted in your mind is Athirapally, the location of the falls of the same name.
Colorful hornbills flit past you in a vision of pure beauty, while the perches of the rain-forest offer them a perfect relief from a day full of work! Take a dip in the refreshing pools at the base of the waterfall and celebrate the spirit of friendship and bonding that has brought you this far. We guarantee a lifetime of memories, mirth and glee that you will reminisce over as you remember this sojourn with nature at Athirapally!
