It’s April, and temperatures in Delhi and many other cities are already nearing 40°C. To escape the scorching heat, people naturally look for cooler destinations. When thinking of a chill getaway, Shimla and Manali often come to mind. These popular hill stations attract tourists throughout the year and are usually quite crowded.
However, if you’re seeking peace along with pleasant weather, consider exploring some lesser-known offbeat hill stations. These destinations offer calm surroundings, scenic views, misty mountains, and beautiful lakes—perfect for a relaxing summer break away from the crowds. Here are some such hidden gems to visit this summer:
Kalga Village (Himachal Pradesh)
Located in the Parvati Valley near Pulga Dam in Himachal’s Kullu district, Kalga is a haven for trekking enthusiasts. During April, Kalga enjoys a cool climate with average maximum temperatures around 14°C and minimum temperatures dropping to -4°C. If you love trekking, this 28 km trail can be completed in around three days. The village also offers breathtaking views of the Manikaran Valley from the hilltop, with particularly magical sunsets.
How to Reach Kalga:
Manikaran, about 25 km from the nearest airport, is the closest town. From there, Kalga is just 10 km away and marks the starting point of the trek. Alternatively, reach Kullu district and travel by road to Bhuntar to access Kalga.
Spiti Valley (Himachal Pradesh)
Spiti Valley is one of the coldest destinations in Himachal Pradesh. While winters here are extremely harsh, even during summer, the weather remains chilly. In April, the temperature ranges from a bone-chilling -13°C to a maximum of just 3°C. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, Spiti offers a truly wintry experience in summer. It is an ideal destination to visit from March to June.
How to Reach Spiti Valley:
The nearest railway station is Joginder Nagar, 169 km away. From there, you can take a taxi or local bus. You can also enjoy a toy train ride from Pathankot to Joginder Nagar for a unique travel experience.
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Tawang (Arunachal Pradesh)
Famous for its cool climate and majestic monasteries, Tawang is a top summer retreat in Arunachal Pradesh. In April, the average maximum temperature is around 14°C, with minimum temperatures as low as 2°C. Tawang is home to India’s largest and the world’s second-largest monastery. Surrounded by serene landscapes and refreshing weather, it’s perfect for a peaceful holiday.
How to Reach Tawang:
There are no direct flights to Tawang. The nearest airport is in Tezpur, about 387 km away. From Guwahati, it’s a 450 km journey by road, which can take over a day due to hilly terrain.
Zero Point (Sikkim)
Located in the Yumthang Valley of Sikkim, Zero Point is a dream destination for snow lovers. The area offers stunning views of snow-covered mountains, including the majestic Kanchenjunga. The temperature here remains below freezing even in April.
How to Reach Zero Point:
You can reach Gangtok by train or flight, then travel 140 km to Yumthang Valley. From Yumthang, it’s a 13 km (about one-hour) drive to reach Zero Point.
These lesser-known destinations not only promise cold weather in the peak of summer but also provide a much-needed break from crowded tourist spots. Plan your trip to one of these places and enjoy a calm and refreshing vacation!