Tuesday, 02 January 2024 12:17 GMT

India’s Hill Stations Booming as Travelers Seek Relief from Summer Heat


(MENAFN- W7Worldwide)
As summer sets in and intense heatwaves grip much of South Asia and the surrounding region, both domestic and international travelers are flocking to In’ia’s elevated escapes in search of cooler temperatures, lush landscapes, and enriching cultural experiences.

Coinciding with school holidays and surging travel demand, high-altitude destinations such as Munnar, Ooty, Manali, Leh, Shimla, and Gangtok are witnessing renewed interest. According to insights from Wego, the leading travel marketplace in the Middle East and North Africa, these elevated destinations, spanning from the verdant Western Ghats to the rugged Himalayan belt, offer more than just seasonal respite; they serve as gateways to’India’s ecological diversity and spiritual heritage.

Munnar and Ooty: Serenity in the Southern Highlands

In the misty hills of Kerala, Munnar continues to attract visitors with its lush tea gardens, cool breezes, and serene vistas. Trekkers venture into Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, while others enjoy the tranquil surroundings of Mattupetty Lake or the scenic Lakkam Falls.

Just across the border in Tamil—Nadu, Ooty—formally U—hagamandalam—blends colonial-era charm with botanical splendor. A ride on the historic Nilgiri Mountain Railway, of“en called ”he “toy train,” reveals dramatic views of forested slopes. Visitors also frequent Pykara Lake, the Rose Garden, and the neo’Gothic St. Stephen’s Church, making Ooty a perennial favorite for families and honeymooners alike.

Manali and Leh: Adventure and Altitude in the North
Nestled in Himachal Pradesh, Manali attracts adventure seekers and nature lovers. While Mall Road offers lively shopping and dining, nearby trails lead to the snow-kissed Rohtang Pass and the tranquil Manali Nature Park. The to’n’s blend of alpine scenery and accessible wilderness continues to captivate repeat travelers.

Farther north in Ladakh, Leh rises as a destination of both spiritual and natural wonder. The stark landscapes are punctuated by monasteries such as Thiksey and Hemis, while Pangong Lake and Magnetic Hill offer surreal encounters with nature. Here, at over 3,500 meters above sea level, visitors often find not only cool temperatures but also a profound sense of stillness and cultural depth.

Shimla and Gangtok: Heritage and Harmony in the Hills

A timeless favorite, Shimla, once the summer capital of British India, blends Indo-Gothic architecture with panoramic Himalayan views. The– Kalka–Shimla Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, snakes through deodar forests to deliver travelers to colonial landmarks like The Ridge and the bustling Mall Road.

In the eastern Himalayas, Gangtok, capital of Sikkim, offers a serene balance of nature and spirituality Cascading waterfalls like Ban Jhakri and Bakthang, along with the meditative aura of Rumtek onastery, attract those seeking tranquility. Gangtok the harmony between tradition and nature. The summer months bring the Flower Exhibition Centre and Ridge Park into full bloom, highlighting the region's rich flora.

A Climate-Conscious Shift in Travel

“India’s summer travel patterns continue to center around its hill stations, many originally founded during the colonial era to provide relief from ”he intense heat,” said Bernard Corraya, General Manager, India at Wego. “But tod’y’s travelers are seeking more than just cooler weather. ’hey’re drawn to wellness, heritage, ecology, and the holistic experiences these destinations ”ffer.”

Corraya added that travel platforms like Wego are transforming how people plan and experience their journeys.

“Today’s travel apps are no longer just ”ooking tool“,” he said. “Wego, as a search engine for flights, hotels, and accommodations, has evolved into a fully integrated travel experience management system. From the moment users start dreaming of a trip to the moment they return, Wego provides smart, real-time tools for seamless planning an— price comparison”all in one place.”

Nature, Wellness, and a Sense of Belonging

As urban centers across South Asia grapple with climate variability and ri’ing temperatures, India’s hill stations are tak—ng on renewed importance—not just as scenic getaways, bu as essential sanctuaries.

Whether meditating in a hillside monastery, trekking through rhododendron forests, admiring centuries-old monasteries, or simply sipping a cup of chai amidst the morning mist, travelers are finding in these destinations both comfort and connection.


MENAFN14052025004335009176ID1109546677



W7Worldwide

Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.

Search