Coolest summer retreats of India with Hermes Voyages

As the Indian summer approaches, escaping to cooler climes becomes a priority. Hermes Voyages, India’s premier luxury lifestyle travel agency, invites you to explore the nation’s most refreshing summer destinations. From well-known hill stations to hidden gems, our curated journeys promise both comfort and adventure.

Jammu, Kashmir, Ladakh

Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh offer several cool retreats. Srinagar, the summer capital, is famous for its pristine Dal Lake and houseboat experiences. Gulmarg, known for its lush meadows, provides a serene environment, while Pahalgam, nestled along the Lidder River, offers picturesque views and tranquil surroundings. Sonamarg, translating to ‘Meadow of Gold,’ is another gem with its enchanting beauty. For those seeking an adventurous retreat, Ladakh’s cool temperatures and breathtaking landscapes are unparalleled. Pangong Lake, situated at an elevation of approximately 14,270 feet, is known for its mesmerizing blue waters and serene surroundings. The region’s unique culture and rugged terrains make it a haven for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.

Himachal Pradesh

This northern state is home to several hill stations that serve as perfect summer getaways. Shimla, the capital, boasts colonial architecture and scenic vistas. Manali, located in the Kullu Valley, is known for its adventure sports and vibrant culture. Dalhousie offers old-world charm with its Victorian-era buildings, while the serene Tirthan Valley provides a tranquil retreat away from the crowds.

Uttarakhand

Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, Uttarakhand offers destinations like Nainital, famous for its pear-shaped lake and pleasant climate. Mussoorie, often called the ‘Queen of the Hills,’ provides panoramic views of the Doon Valley. Auli is a haven for skiing enthusiasts, and Rishikesh, situated along the Ganges, is known for its spiritual retreats and yoga centres.

Arunachal Pradesh

Arunachal Pradesh, often referred to as the “Land of the Rising Sun,” offers a plethora of cool destinations perfect for a summer retreat. Tawang, nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, including snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and serene lakes. The Tawang Buddhist Monastery, one of the largest in India, stands as a testament to the region’s rich cultural heritage. Ziro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is celebrated for its lush green rice fields, rolling hills, and the unique Apatani tribal culture. The valley’s cool climate and picturesque landscapes make it an ideal summer destination. Dirang, located in the West Kameng district, offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Visitors can explore the Dirang Dzong, a historical fort, and enjoy the soothing hot water springs. Bomdila, the administrative headquarters of West Kameng district, provides panoramic views of the snow-clad peaks of Kangto and Gorichen. The town is also known for its monasteries and apple orchards. For those seeking offbeat destinations, Anini in the Upper Dibang Valley district is a hidden gem. Surrounded by steep hills and the Lohit River, Anini offers a tranquil environment away from the hustle and bustle.

Sikkim

This northeastern state is a treasure trove of natural beauty. Gangtok, the capital, offers stunning views of the Kanchenjunga range. Lachen and Lachung, quaint villages in North Sikkim, serve as gateways to the pristine Gurudongmar and Yumthang Lakes, respectively. The state’s cool climate and serene landscapes make it an ideal summer retreat.

Meghalaya

Known as the ‘Abode of Clouds,’ Meghalaya boasts destinations like Shillong, which offers a blend of colonial charm and natural beauty. Cherrapunjee and Mawsynram, among the wettest places on Earth, are renowned for their living root bridges and lush green landscapes. The state’s unique culture and pleasant weather make it a must-visit.

Odisha

While Odisha is often associated with its temples and beaches, Daringbadi, located in the Kandhamal district, is fondly referred to as the ‘Kashmir of Odisha.’ At an elevation of 3,000 feet, it offers pine forests, coffee plantations, and a cool climate, making it a perfect summer escape.

Karnataka

Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is a picturesque hill station in Karnataka. Famous for its coffee plantations, rolling hills, and lush forests, Coorg provides a refreshing ambience. The region’s cool climate and scenic beauty make it a favoured destination for nature lovers.

Kerala

Munnar, located in Kerala’s Western Ghats, is renowned for its tea gardens, misty hills, and pleasant weather. The hill station’s serene environment and lush greenery offer a tranquil retreat from the summer heat.

Tamil Nadu

Ooty, short for Udhagamandalam, is a charming hill station in Tamil Nadu. Known for its botanical gardens, lakes, and the UNESCO-listed Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Ooty’s cool climate and scenic landscapes make it a popular summer destination.

Rajasthan

Mount Abu, the only hill station in Rajasthan, provides a cool retreat amidst the desert state. Situated in the Aravalli Range, it is known for the Dilwara Temples, Nakki Lake, and its pleasant climate, offering a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty.

West Bengal

Darjeeling, known as the “Queen of the Hills,” boasts stunning views of the Kanchenjunga peaks, a nostalgic toy train ride, and numerous tea gardens. Kalimpong offers a blend of Tibetan and Nepali cultures, with monasteries, nurseries, and panoramic views of the Himalayas. Mirik, a serene town nestled around a lake, is perfect for boating, nature walks, and enjoying the cool climate. Kurseong, known as the “Land of White Orchids,” offers a peaceful environment with tea gardens, waterfalls, and colonial-era architecture. Lava, a quaint village located at an altitude of about 7,000 feet, is known for its dense forests, monasteries, and the Neora Valley National Park. Lolegaon, located about 25 km from Lava, offers breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga range and is known for its heritage forest. Rishyap, a small village near Lava, offers panoramic views of the Himalayas, dense forests, and a peaceful environment.

At Hermes Voyages, we specialize in crafting personalized itineraries that cater to your preferences. Whether you’re drawn to well-known hill stations or eager to explore hidden gems, our team ensures a seamless and luxurious travel experience. Embrace the cool comforts of India’s diverse landscapes this summer with Hermes Voyages.