Summer Escapes: Discover India's Top 5 Destinations from May to July

India is a diverse and captivating country that offers an array of enchanting destinations to explore throughout the year. If you are planning a trip to India between May and July, you are in for a treat. This period falls within India's summer season, where vibrant festivals, pleasant hill stations, and picturesque coastal towns beckon travellers. From the majestic mountains of Himachal Pradesh to the serene backwaters of Kerala, here are the top five places to visit in India between May and July, each offering a unique and unforgettable experience. Here is the list of the top 5 places to visit in May-July.

1. MountAbu

Being the only hill station in the desert state of Rajasthan, this place is no less than "An Oasis of Thar Desert." This place is an architectural fusion of rustic abodes of tribal community and British bungalows and a touch of Royal holiday lodges here or there. You can find Janisim in the religious aspect of life. Some of the famous places here to visit are Nakki Lake, along with being the first manmade lake in the country, which is also known to be the final resting place of the ashes of Mahatma Gandhi. Near this lake stands the Mascot of MountAbu, The Toad Rock View Point, it is a naturally strained-shaped rock, making it a perfect place for Selfies but remember to wear comfortable shoes while visiting it as it is located on the main trekking trail near the lake. Next comes Guru Shikhar, being the highest point of this mountain range so good for sightseeing and 300 steps from it stands the temple of Guru Dattatreya(known to be the incarnation of the Divine Trinity of Hindus Bhrama, Vishnu, and Mahesh). As it is mentioned before this town is Jainism hot spot, So at this moment presenting Dilwara Jain Temple, made between the 11th -13th centuries yes, it's very old but time doesn't put a single scratch it, earning it a place in one of some architectural perfections of India. These are just a few names of its attractions this city has a lot more to offer making it worth a visit. (src-Rajasthan Tourism)

2. Manali

Manali or said to be previously knowns as Manu-Alaya (abode of Manu), is often regarded as a gift to the world from the Himalayas. A small township located in the romantic Beas River Valley made its place in the top 25 most romantic hill stations in India according to Curlytales in 2020, with its overwhelming valleys and adventurous sports spots, In this city one can have the best of both worlds from its heritage values of Hidimba temple and Manu temple to Adventurous Salang Nullah to Arts in Neggar village's Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery, and let's not forget Mysterious Naggar Castle build by Raja Sidh Singh in 1460AD as some unsolved riddles of its own. Talking about Religious aspects then let's not forget about Brighu Lake, known to be the meditation point of Sage Brighu. Other attractions include Manali Wildlife Sanctuary, Nehru Khud and the Manali Gompa. (src-Himachal Tourism)

3. Darjeeling

Holding the title of 'Queen of hills' along with Mussoorie, this Bengali hill station is not only known for its tasty and fragrant tea leaves but also its immense range of Flora and Fauna. It offers one a magnificent sunrise point over Kanchenjunga and a viewpoint of Mt. Everest from the internationally famed Tiger Hill. Batasia Loop is an example of marvellous engineering with its toy train view around it and a memorial standing tall with the names of all brave sons of Darjeeling engraved on it who lost their lives in different battles since 1947. Not to forget about UNESCO-proclaimed World Heritage Site, whose 600 mm wide track Darjeeling Himalayan Railway(DHR) or Toy train made in 1881 holds its very own fan base. This Queen holds much more wonders in her pockets like this, Shanti Stupa and Ghoom. (scr- West Bengal Tourism)

4. Cherrapunji

Yes, you read it right, the wettest place on this earth Cherrapunji aka Sohra made its place on this list, but don't judge the book by its title. This city of rain has beauty and stories of its own. From luxurious stays to cosy homestays, this city has something to offer everyone. This city is also known to be the place where civilizations meet, if it is the cultural capital of Khasis then it is also the gateway to the colonial age. While the valley comes to its full glory in monsoon, in the dry season its valleys become a perfect combination of blue skies and striking trekking trails. Its Dainthlen Falls and Nahkalikai Falls have their own set of immortal khasi tales, and its Noh Sngithaing Falls give a picture-perfect view of shining water trails during its more magnificent sunrise. Let's not forget it's Arwah Caves which tells the stories of the evolution of our planet and Mawsmai Caves is an ecosystem of its own with underground pools, over-the-top natural formations and naturally preserved fossils. etc. Who wouldn't want to go to this nature's paradise?

 (src-Madhey Pradesh Tourism)

5. Mussoorie

If we are talking about summer vacation destinations, then this place is a must. This famous Queen of Hills has a lot to offer from romantic honeymooners to leisure travellers, everyone can find their type of holiday here in this town. From the Municipal Garden filled with beautiful and colourful flowers to Mussoorie Lake for boating and sightseeing of Doon Valley and let's not forget Lal Tibba, the highest hill here that provides the best view to north and snow-capped Himalayan peaks if you saw this during sunrise well then you have seen enough. Then there is Christ Church one of the oldest churches made by Britishers during their "not so small visit" to India. Still, this church is more famous for its Deodar tree in its garden planted by Queen Mary, That time Princess of Wales on one of her "weekly' visits to Mussoorie, Some British gifts to this city include Gun Hill, the highest point of Mall Road, which is a very good trail for late night walks by the way. This city has a religious point too named Surkanda Devi Temple, it is said that Devi Sati's Head fell here after Lord Vishnu destroyed her physical self to save the world from the anger of Lord Shiva. Talking about nature well this city has it too, its three waterfalls(Bhatta Falls, Jharipani Falls and Kempty Falls) are like the jewel on this queen's crown. (src-Uttrakhand Tourism)

In conclusion, India's May to July period offers a plethora of incredible destinations to explore. Whether you seek the serene beauty of the hills, the vibrant culture of Rajasthan, or the refreshing coastal breeze, there is something for everyone. From the enchanting landscapes of Mount Abu and the adventurous allure of Manali to the captivating charm of Darjeeling and the mystical wonders of Cherrapunji, each place has its unique appeal. And let's not forget the majestic hill station of Mussoorie, with its panoramic views and romantic atmosphere. So, pack your bags, embark on an unforgettable journey, and immerse yourself in the beauty and diversity that India has to offer during these summer months.