Dream Budget Destinations in India for Upcoming Summer Vacations

It’s that time of the year again when our entire year’s travel research is put to use. The time when the annual summer break is upon us, and we look for destinations where we can get some relief from the unprecedented high temperatures. Where some plan on spending their vacations at a beachfront luxury, others head to the Himalayas for a spiritually and mentally uplifting embrace or to the Western Ghats to the tea and spices laden valleys. Whatever your idea of an ideal summer vacation, here’s a list of some budget destinations in India where you can head for a family beak, a get together with friends or a romantic getaway.

1. Tawang

Situated at the Northeastern edge of the country, Tawang is a gift of the nature displaying its unparalleled beauty in every inch of the land. This picturesque town is bound by Tibet on the North, Sela range of West Kameng to the East and Bhutan on the South-West, thus making it culturally unique from rest of the places in India.

Things to do: Visit the chief religious attractions in Tawang, including Tawang Monastery, Urgeling Gompa and Taktshang Gompa; or breathtaking valleys, peaks and lakes such as Shonga-tser, Nagula Lake, Pangateng Tso, Nuranang Falls and Gorichen Peak.

2. Leh

Considered as the Mecca for travellers, Leh is one of the most beautiful places to be. It is home to the most incredible landscapes, lush green valleys, sparkling blue waters and snow laden Himalayan passes, and is truly a paradise on earth. Here you can relax, rejuvenate and treat your senses to a whole new world.

Things to do: Set on a trek at some of the best trekking trails, indulge in bird watching, get high on the beauty of mother nature and visit historical monuments such as Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace, Nubra Valley, Thiksey and Shey Monastery, or spend a day at Pangong Tso Lake.

3. Gangtok

The city of Gangtok is an untouched beauty known for its religious and cultural diversity. The region has an influence of the Buddhist, the Nepalese and the local Tribal community, thus making it a one-stop destination for diverse experiences. For travellers, Gangtok is a gateway to some of the incredible trekking trails and hiking routes.

Things to do: Soar high like an eagle by partaking in paragliding. Visit places of high importance like the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, Enchey and Rumtek Monsatery.

4. Wayanad

This silent hill town in Kerala is ideal for anyone who’s looking for a relaxed summer vacation spot. Fondly called as ‘The Green Paradise’, Wayanad boasts of its lush agriculture fields, misty hills and thick forests. Wayanad bird sanctuary is one of the main attractions here, and probably the most popular bird watching destinations in the country.

Things to so: Take a leisure walk along the fields and soak in the aroma of tea, coffee, vanilla and spice plantations. Head to the tourist attractions, like Meenmutty waterfalls, Chethalayam, Chembra Peak, Neelima and Banasura Sagar Dam.

5. Rishikesh

Addressed as the ‘World Capital of Yoga’, Rishikesh is a place to reckon with. There are a large numbers of yoga centers and ashrams in the city which are a great means for meditation and tranquility. Notwithstanding its acclaim for being the top yoga destination in India, Rishikesh has also emerged as one of the popular adventure places. Head here to get an adrenaline rush like never before.

Things to do: Camping, water rafting, cliff jumping and bungee jumping are some of the activities that you can try in Rishikesh. Also, you must try Ayurvedic cuisines and teas at numerous joints setup in the city. Not to forget, make sure to head to the German Bakery and the Chotiwala Restaurant.

Click here for hotels in Rishikesh

So, with the sun beating down, pack your bags and head to these amazing places for a memorable vacation.