With blistering temperatures and a heatwave scorching many parts of the country, it’s time for the good ol’ summer holiday. Thankfully, India is blessed with getaways that not only give you your own space and time to connect with nature, reflect and start afresh; but also show you how to do all of this responsibly and sustainably. Here’s our round-up of the coolest getaways to bookmark this season:
Khonoma, Nagaland
The first settlement of Nagaland to earn the ‘Green Village’ tag, Khonoma is a beautiful hamlet nestled in the Naga Hills that is proud of its initiatives in sustainable living and eco-tourism. Lush forests, terraced fields, stone walkways and dwarf forts built of rocks, make you feel like you have entered an era of knights and princesses. With traditional Naga architecture and blooming flowers, you almost have ‘The Shire’ from Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings. A Hobbit Home, made by localite Asakho Chase, is the perfect backdrop for selfies.
- Nearest Airport: Dimapur, 80km (2 hours) away.
- Where to Stay: Dovipie Inn, Hill View Cottage and other homestays in Khonoma.
Warichora, Meghalaya
This quaint settlement in the southern Garo hills has recently become popular with offbeat explorers. The dense foliage here keeps the summer heat at bay. With its name translating to a ‘deep river’, Warichora offers a kilometre-long thrilling rafting route through a river canyon, amid lush forests with otherworldly mossy-green walls rising 45 feet high. While here, also take a dip in the crystal-clear Chibok Dare and Re-nang Dare waterfalls or explore the mysterious underground caves.
- Nearest Airport: Guwahati, 240km (7 hours) away.
- Where to Stay: Homestays in the villages of Dabalgre and Emangre; or hotels in Baghmara town 2 hours away.
Tadoba National Park, Maharashtra
Lather on sunblock and grab your safari hat, since the dry summer spell makes it easier to spot the majestic Bengal Tiger lurking near waterholes to quench its thirst. Tadoba stands out for its 20 topographically different habitat zones. From flying squirrels and the bison to jungle cats, there’s plenty for wildlife enthusiasts to explore. Summer also sees various migratory birds flocking to the region. Be it on jeep safaris, bird-watching tours or nature walks, always wear breathable clothes and hydrate yourself to beat the heat.
- Nearest Airport: Nagpur, 140km (2 hours) away.
- Where to Stay: Vanya Villas Resort & Spa, Svasara Jungle Lodge and other options around the park.
Summer Festival at Mount Abu, Rajasthan
If you’re looking for a cultural experience, head to Mount Abu in May around Buddha Purnima. The festival celebrates local culture and traditions of Hindus and Buddhists alike. On the agenda are traditional Rajasthani folk songs celebrating historic heroes through ballads, a mythologically significant boat race on Nakki Lake, ghoomar dance performances, fireworks and more. You can even partake in horse races, tug-of-war competitions, kite flying and be amused by events such as the Matka Race.
- Nearest Airport: Udaipur, 160 km (3 hours) away.
- Where to Stay: Palace Hotel, Cama Rajputana Club Resort and multiple options in Mount Abu
Minicoy Island, Lakshadweep
Swim away from the scorching summer heat in solitude at the pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters of Minicoy. This is Lakshadweep’s second-largest island and home to one of the largest lagoons and a stunning uninhabited islet, Viringili. It is also home to a 300-foot lighthouse that provides panoramic views of the surrounding area. For the ocean enthusiast, there is vibrant marine life to explore via snorkelling or scuba diving. For the culture lover, there are lava dances and Jahadhoni race boats.
- Nearest Airport: Agatti Island (45 minutes by helicopter).
- Where to Stay: Minicoy Island Beach Resort.
Tulian Lake, Pahalgam, Kashmir
This destination is about the journey. While most day-trippers on mules return by midday, we recommend a slow trek on foot to this stunning turquoise lake set amidst snow-capped peaks. Soak in jaw-dropping views of craggy peaks, alpine meadows and forests along the way. Only a mild level of fitness is needed for this 48km hike from Pahalgam through the grasslands of Baisaran. Camp overnight to gaze at the setting sun through a campfire, snuggle in warm blankets and listen to local stories from enthusiastic guides.
- Nearest Airport: Srinagar, 90km (2.5 hours) away.
- Where to Stay: Set up camp at Tulian Marg, a meadow below the lake.
Hemis, Ladakh
Beyond the endless drives through rugged and barren terrains that Ladakh is famed for, you can also witness the vibrant Hemis Festival in June. The 300-year-old Hemis Monastery springs to life with performers in colourful attire and masks, pulsating beats of drums, cymbals and trumpets, along with hundreds of devotees in attendance. The life of monks at nearby gompas might just inspire you to live a simple life too.
- Nearest Airport: Leh, 45km (1 hour) away
- Where to Stay: Dakpa House at Stakna Gompa; or at local homestays
