Discover the Best Places to Visit in India in June

June marks the beginning of the monsoon season in India, but it's also a shoulder season when the crowds haven't arrived yet and you can find good deals on travel. Here are some of the best places to visit in India in June:

Hill Stations: Escape the summer heat in the hills of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and North East India. Some of the popular options include:

Manali

Manali is an excellent pick for a June escape. During this shoulder season, you'll benefit from pleasant weather and avoid peak summer crowds. Here's what Manali offers in June:

• Explore the Town: Nestled in the Himalayas, Manali boasts a charming town center. Stroll down Mall Road, the main street, exploring shops and cafes. Visit the Hidimba Devi Temple, a beautiful wooden structure dedicated to Bhima's wife from the Mahabharata epic.
• Adventure Activities: Manali is a haven for adventure seekers. Paraglide, go mountain biking, or try river rafting on the Beas River. For a bigger challenge, trek to Rohtang Pass or Hampta Pass.
• Relaxation in Hot Springs: Vashisht, a village near Manali, is renowned for its natural hot springs with supposedly medicinal properties. It's a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploration.

• Tibetan Monasteries: Manali's Tibetan population is significant, reflected in the presence of several monasteries. These offer a glimpse into Tibetan culture and Buddhism.

  Manali shines year-round, but June offers a particularly sweet spot with pleasant weather, manageable crowds, and a variety of activities.

   

Dalhousie: 

Dalhousie, another jewel in Himachal Pradesh, offers a charming escape in June. Here's why it should be on your June travel list:

• Enticing Hill Station: Dalhousie's colonial heritage blends with a picturesque setting amidst verdant valleys. Imagine strolling along winding lanes, breathing in fresh mountain air, and soaking in the serenity.
• Architectural Delights: Dalhousie boasts colonial marvels like Panchpula, a five-point waterfall surrounded by pine trees, and Sach Pass, the highest road in Himachal Pradesh with stunning vistas.
• Adventure Activities: Dalhousie caters to adventure enthusiasts with options like trekking scenic Dainkund Peak, embarking on mountain biking expeditions, or paragliding for an adrenaline rush.
• Calming Churches: Find peace in the tranquility of churches like St. Andrew's, built in the neo-Gothic style, and St. Francis', known for its stained-glass windows.

• Tibetan Influence: Immerse yourself in a touch of Tibetan culture at the Tibetan Mini Market, where you can find unique handicrafts and souvenirs. Savor a cup of steaming Tibetan butter tea for a local experience.

  With pleasant June weather, captivating beauty, and a range of activities, Dalhousie promises a refreshing summer escape.

   

Darjeeling

Darjeeling, the "Queen of Hills," is a captivating hill station nestled amidst the Himalayas in West Bengal. June might not be the absolute peak season for Darjeeling, but it still offers a compelling experience for travelers:

• Pleasant Weather: While the monsoon season approaches in June, Darjeeling experiences shoulder season with comfortable temperatures. Escape the scorching summer heat in other parts of India and enjoy refreshing Darjeeling mornings.
• Lush Greenery: The pre-monsoon showers enhance the already verdant landscape of Darjeeling. Witness rolling hills carpeted in lush green tea plantations and soak in the beauty of nature.
• Fewer Crowds: Compared to the peak summer months, June sees a dip in tourist influx. Explore Darjeeling's sights at a leisurely pace and avoid the hustle and bustle.
• Potential for Discounts: Hotels and travel companies might offer deals and discounts to attract visitors during the shoulder season. This can be a budget-friendly time to visit Darjeeling.
• Things to Do in Darjeeling:
• Witness the Sunrise Over Kanchenjunga: Take a ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and witness the breathtaking sunrise over the majestic Kanchenjunga peak, the world's third-highest mountain.
• Explore Tea Plantations: Darjeeling is synonymous with world-famous tea. Visit a tea plantation, learn about the tea-making process, and indulge in a cup of freshly brewed Darjeeling tea.
• Tibetan Monastery Trail: Immerse yourself in the rich Tibetan culture by exploring monasteries like the Bengal Buddhist Monastery and the Ghoom Monastery.
• Joyride on the Darjeeling Ropeway: Take a scenic cable car ride up to Singalila National Park for panoramic views of the Himalayas.

• While June might not be the ideal time for trekking due to potential rain showers, Darjeeling still offers a delightful escape in June with its pleasant weather, captivating beauty, and unique experiences.

   

Shillong:

Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, is another fantastic hill station to consider for your June travels. Here's what makes Shillong a compelling choice:

• Pleasant Summer Weather: June falls right in the sweet spot of Shillong's summer season. You'll experience comfortable temperatures, typically ranging between 16-26 degrees Celsius, with clear skies and refreshing evenings.
• Blooming Landscapes: The pre-monsoon showers enhance the lush greenery of Shillong. Picture rolling hills carpeted in vibrant hues and cascading waterfalls brimming with fresh rainwater.
• Adventure Activities: Shillong offers a haven for adventure enthusiasts. June's dry days are perfect for trekking, mountain biking, or exploring caves. You can also try water rappelling for an adrenaline rush.

• Cultural Delights: Immerse yourself in the vibrant Khasi culture, the indigenous people of Meghalaya. Explore local markets, try traditional Khasi cuisine, and witness their rich heritage through dance performances.

   

  Ladakh: June marks the beginning of the tourist season in Ladakh, a high-altitude desert region in Jammu and Kashmir. Here you can experience stunning scenery, Buddhist monasteries, and adventure activities like trekking and river rafting.

   

Hill stations of South India:

Munnar

Munnar, nestled in Kerala's Western Ghats, is a popular summer destination in June. Here's why it's a compelling choice:

• Pleasant Weather: June is Munnar's shoulder season, offering a break from the scorching summer heat elsewhere in India. Expect comfortable temperatures, perfect for exploring the outdoors.
• Blooming Beauty: Pre-monsoon showers create a visual treat. Witness hills carpeted with vibrant seasonal flowers, adding to the town's charm. The famed Neelakurinji blooms every 12 years, so you might be lucky!
• Waterfall Spectacle: Pre-monsoon showers rejuvenate Munnar's waterfalls. Atukkad, Cheeyappara, and Valara Falls are at their most spectacular in June.
• Adventure Activities: June's dry days are ideal for trekking the lush green hills. You can also try mountain biking or explore Echo Point, a natural phenomenon known for interesting sound effects.

• Tea Delights: Munnar is famous for its sprawling tea plantations. Take a tour, learn about the process, and enjoy a cup of freshly brewed Munnar tea.

  Munnar in June offers a delightful escape with comfortable weather, captivating scenery, unique experiences, and fewer crowds compared to peak season.

   

Coorg

Coorg, the "Scotland of India," is a captivating hill station in Karnataka. June, the start of the monsoon, can still be a great time to visit. Here's why Coorg should be on your June itinerary:

• Pleasant Monsoonal Weather: June brings the monsoon to Coorg, but gently. Expect comfortable temperatures with refreshing showers and occasional sunshine.
• Lush Greenery at its Peak: Pre-monsoon showers make Coorg even more verdant. Imagine rolling hills draped in lush coffee estates and rain-washed forests, creating a breathtaking scene.
• Fewer Crowds and Potential Discounts: June is Coorg's shoulder season, so you'll encounter less congestion and potentially find deals on travel and accommodation.
• Activities in Coorg During June:
• Explore Coffee Plantations: Coorg is famous for its coffee. Visit a plantation, learn about the coffee-making process, and enjoy a fresh cup of Coorg coffee.
• Trekking amidst the Greenery: While heavy monsoon rains might limit options later, June offers opportunities for trekking. Explore trails like Tadiandamol Peak, Coorg's highest, or Nishani Motte for panoramic vistas.
• Waterfall Spectacle: Pre-monsoon showers rejuvenate Coorg's waterfalls. Witness the cascading beauty of Abbey Falls or the serenity of Iruppu Falls.

• Discover Wildlife: Coorg boasts rich biodiversity. Take a jeep safari in Nagarhole National Park or explore Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary to spot elephants, tigers, and various bird species.

  Coorg in June offers a unique experience: comfortable weather, breathtaking rain-washed landscapes, exciting activities, and fewer crowds. It's a perfect destination for a monsoon escape!

   

Wayanad

Wayanad, nestled in the Western Ghats of Kerala, is a perfect destination for those seeking a monsoon getaway in June. Here's what makes Wayanad compelling in June:

• Monsoon Magic: June marks the beginning of the monsoon, transforming Wayanad into a verdant paradise. Lush greenery carpets the hills, waterfalls come alive, and the air is cleansed with refreshing showers.
• Pleasant Escape from Summer Heat: Escape the scorching summer heat of the plains and experience Wayanad's comfortable temperatures, ranging between 20-32 degrees Celsius.
• Ideal for Nature Lovers: With the monsoon, Wayanad's natural beauty is at its peak. Explore dense forests teeming with wildlife, hike amidst rolling hills, or simply relax amidst the tranquil monsoon vibes.

• Fewer Crowds and Budget-friendly Options: June is the shoulder season, offering a chance to experience Wayanad without peak-season crowds. You might also find better deals on accommodation and tours.

   

Activities in Wayanad During June:

• Trekking Adventures: While heavy monsoon rains may limit options later, June offers opportunities for trekking. Explore trails like Chembra Peak or Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary for a glimpse of diverse flora and fauna.
• Wildlife Exploration: Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is home to elephants, tigers, and various bird species. Take a Jeep safari or go bird watching to experience the rich biodiversity.
• Waterfall Spectacle: The pre-monsoon showers rejuvenate Wayanad's waterfalls. Witness the cascading beauty of Meenmutty Falls, the highest waterfall in Kerala, or enjoy the serenity of Soochipara Falls.
• Explore Historical and Cultural Sites: Visit Edakkal Caves, known for prehistoric petroglyphs, or immerse yourself in the rich tribal culture of Wayanad.
• Wayanad in June offers a unique monsoon experience – comfortable weather, breathtaking waterfalls, lush landscapes, exciting activities, and fewer crowds. It's a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a tranquil escape!

• Andaman and Nicobar Islands: If you're looking for a beach vacation, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a great option in June. The weather is pleasant, and the islands are known for their pristine beaches, coral reefs, and clear waters.
• Western Ghats: The Western Ghats are a mountain range that runs along the western coast of India. In June, the monsoon rains have just begun, making the waterfalls and hill stations even more beautiful. Some of the popular places to visit in the Western Ghats include:
  • Lonavala: A popular hill station near Mumbai, Lonavala is known for its waterfalls, caves, and trekking trails.
  • Mahabaleshwar: Another hill station near Mumbai, Mahabaleshwar is famous for its strawberries, waterfalls, and boating on Venna Lake.
  • Coorg: As mentioned earlier, Coorg is also located in the Western Ghats.

This is just a starting point, of course. There are many other great places to visit in India in June. With a little research, you can find the perfect destination for your interests and budget.