June is one of the hottest months of the year in India. The average temperature range from 85 °F to 98 °F.
The monsoon season begins to unleash rains in the southern parts of India and makes its way gradually up north towards the end of the month.
South India receives on average 400mm (16 inches) of rain in June, whereas northern India gets about 60 mm (2 inches of rain) on average.
Therefore, the best thing you can do in this hot month is to escape to the hill stations in the northern and northeastern Himalayan regions to find respite from the scorching heat.
Nestled in the states of Himachal Pradesh, Kashmir, Ladakh, Uttarakhand, Meghalaya, West Bengal and Sikkim are some of India’s greatest hill stations where Indians from the low-lying plains find the ideal refuge in the summer months.
If you are a wildlife enthusiast who does not mind braving the heat for encounters in the wild with the magnificent Royal Bengal Tigers, Asiatic Elephants, leopards, black panthers and other exotic animals, the month of June is the best time to visit.
To escape the heat and keep themselves hydrated, these elusive animals that are masters of disguise, congregate around water holes—which makes finding them easier.
As hot as they are, the months of May and June are, therefore, the best months for Tiger Safaris and other wildlife spotting adventures.
15 Best Places To Visit In June In India
1. Tirthan Valley, Himachal Pradesh
Located on the fringes of the Great Himalayan National Park in the Kullu District of Himachal Pradesh, the Tirthan Valley is perched at a height of 2,500 meters above sea level.
Named after the Tirthan River that flows in the region, this valley, located 120 miles from Shimla, is the perfect Himalayan destination for lovers of nature, wildlife, and hill station scenery.
With the Himalayan National Park and the Tirthan Wildlife Sanctuary located nearby, you can combine a mountain vacation with wildlife and nature adventures.
Lush green mountains, pine forests, a pristine river, snow-capped peaks in the backdrop, a wildlife sanctuary, and a national park all come together to make Tirthan Valley one heck of a holiday destination.
If you are the kind that prefers off-beat path-less-taken destinations, Tirthan Valley is the place for you.
Things to Do in Tirthan Valley
- River Crossing Adventures in the Tirthan River. If you crave adrenaline rushes, river crossing via a safety harness rope is a popular adventure activity in the valley.
- Wildlife Adventures at the Great Himalayan National Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site). This destination is known for its rich flora and fauna. In recent years it has emerged as a popular trekking and ecotourism destination. It is home to 371 flora, 31 mammals, 181 birds, and 9 amphibian species.
- Trout fishing in the Tirthan River.
- Visit the Chhoie and Rolla Waterfall.
- Camping on the riverside.
- White water rafting in the Tirthan River.
- Ecotours to the Tirthan Wildlife Sanctuary, home to the elusive Himalayan Snow Leopard, Musk Deer, Asiatic Brown Bear, and Kashmir Flying Squirrel.
- Visiting the Serlosar Lake and Jalori Pass.
2. Palampur, Himachal Pradesh
Palampur is a small hill town located in the Kangra District of Himachal Pradesh, 130 miles from Shimla. It is surrounded by the Dhauladhar Ranges of the Lower Himalayas.
The name Palampur is a combination of three words (Pani, which means water; “Alam” which means the home of; and “Pur” which means a settlement—”the settlement of plenty of water.”)
As the name suggests, the region has plenty of water, making it an ideal place for tea plantations. Once a part of the Jalandhar Kingdom, a British superintendent of Botanical Gardens introduced the tea bush here in 1849, which changed the destiny of this small hamlet. Palampur Tea is now famous all over India.
Aside from its famous tea, Palampur is popular with tourists visiting Himachal Pradesh due to its majestic Dhauladhar mountains beauty, lush green pine forests, streams, rivers, and hiking trails.
Things to Do in Palampur
- The Tea Gardens. Of course—how else should you begin in this land of aromatic tea? Take a guided tour of the Tea Estates, learn about the plantation and production processes, and enjoy relaxing walks in the cascading tea gardens.
- The nearby town of Bir Billing (18 miles from Palampur) is known as the Paragliding Capital of India. Might as well conquer your fear and take the plunge. Don’t worry, there will be a qualified expert during the flight with you with state-of-the-art equipment.
- Trekking in the Dhauladhar Mountains on the famous Bir Billing, Baijnath Temple, and Triund Treks.
3. Kasol, Himachal Pradesh
A small hamlet in the Kullu District of Himachal Pradesh, Kasol is a little-known gem hidden in the Parvati Valley, 22 miles from the town of Kullu (139 miles from Shimla).
The Buntar airport is located 19 miles away, making it quite accessible through a domestic flight. It serves as a base camp for popular trekking destinations like Tosh, Kheergana, Malana, and Rasol.
In recent years, Kasol has earned a name for itself as a hotspot for backpackers and trekkers. It is a popular destination for its bohemian atmosphere. It hosts many music festivals and events that draw a large number of budding artists and music lovers.
Due to a heavy influx of Israeli tourists, Kasol is also known as the “Mini Israel of India.” You will find many Israeli cafes and restaurants that serve Middle Eastern delicacies.
The nearby villages of Manikaran and Chalal are also popular places with many old temples, hot springs, and quaint hamlets.
Things to Do in Kasol
- Trekking to Kheergana, Malana, Rasol and Tosh.
- Picnics by the River Parvati.
- Leisurely walks to the nearby Chalal village.
- Try Israeli cuisine at the Israeli Cafes in Kasol, especially their falafel and hummus.
- Attend Music Festivals and Performances. Many artists and performers from Israel and Europe come here for inspiration. In Peak Tourism season like June, you will find many concerts and events.
- Visit the hot springs of Manikaran.
- Pay respect at the Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara, considered sacred by the Sikh people.
- Bonfire and Camping.
- Meditation and Yoga.
4. Valley Of Flowers, Uttarakhand (North India)
Sprawling over 33 square miles, the Valley of Flowers was declared an Indian National Park in 1982. Located in the Chamoli District of Uttarakhand at a height of 3,352-3,658 meters above sea level, it is famous for its endemic alpine flower and unique flora and fauna.
Between the month of June and September, hundreds of rare Himalayan wildflowers bloom in the valley making it a spectacular sight to behold.
Flanked by the Nanda Devil National Park to the east, the Valley of Flower serves as a transition zone between the Great Himalayan ranges and the Zanskar range that stretches over Kargil (Ladakh).
In addition to the flowers, the Valley is also home to the Asiatic black bears, snow leopards, musk deer, brown bears, and red foxes.
You will need to trek for about 8 miles from the base camp at Govindghat to get to the valley. You will need a permit to enter the national park, which can be obtained at Ghangaria, the last human habitation before the valley.
Things to Do in the Valley of Flowers
- Trekking. To get to the valley itself, you will have to go through a trek of about 9 miles from Govinghat. Don’t worry the trek is of mild difficulty.
- Explore the valley. Flowers begin to bloom in June. It is a great time to be in the valley.
- Photography. For nature lovers and enthusiasts of nature photography, the Valley of Flowers is the ultimate Garden of Eden in June.
- Birdwatching for Himalayan Monal, Blue-fronted Redstart, and Himalayan Snowcocks.
- Wildlife spotting. The Valley is part of the Nanda Devi Bioreserve. Some rare animals found here are the Himalayan musk deer, blue sheep (bharal), and snow leopards.
- Pilgrimage to the sacred Sikh sight Hemkund Sahib located at a height of 4,329 meters near the Hemkund Lake.
- Witness the great Tipra and Ratban Parvat Glaciers.
- Camping, stargazing, and picnics.
5. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Known as the Yoga Capital of the World, the holy city of Rishikesh in the state of Uttarakhand is not just a famous sacred pilgrimage site in north India thronged by millions of devotees all over India and beyond, but it is also a popular tourist destination known for its water sports adventures, heritage tours, posh destination spas, and luxury hotels.
Nestled on the side of the Ganga River, which is considered sacred in the Hindu faith, Rishikesh is the site of the world’s largest yoga festival. Its Ashrams (holy community centers of learning) and yoga schools run by world-famous gurus and spiritual leaders attract seekers of healing and inner rejuvenation from all over the world.
Rishikesh is located only 140 miles from the capital Delhi and is therefore quite accessible for a perfect summer escape.
Things to Do in Rishikesh
- Yoga sessions with the masters. Join a yoga or meditation retreat and unlock your inner strength.
- Attend a Ganga Aarti Ceremony. Every evening at the Triveni Ghat (embankment) on the river, an intricate ceremony involving a recital of hymns, incantations, and prayers is conducted by the priest as a homage to the divine Ganga river.
- White water rafting in the river. The rapids are ideal for both beginners and experts.
- Temple Tour. Visit the Neelkanth Mahadev and Kunjapuri temples known for their religious and historical significance and architecture.
- Treat yourself to an Ayurvedic Massage and spa experience.
- Visit the Neer Garh Waterfall.
- Indulge in Adventure Sports like Bungee jumping, cliff jumping, trekking, camping, and other outdoor adventures.
6. Almora, Uttarakhand
Located at the foot of the Kumaon Hills, Almora is considered the pride of the Kumaon region. Two rivers, the Koshi and Suyal, flow alongside the city. The rivers combine with a background of snow-capped Kumaon Hills to make for spectacular natural sceneries.
This small picturesque hill station of 170,000 people is known for its tranquil and peaceful aura and a rich cultural heritage that goes back centuries. The weather is extremely pleasant in the month of June, making it an ideal place for a summer vacation.
Things to Do in Almora
- Temple Tour to the Nanda Devi, Kasar Devi, and Chitai Golu Devta Temples, which are renowned for their religious significance and architecture.
- Hike up to the Bright End Corner to get mesmerizing views of the Kumaon region.
- Day trip to the Jageshwar Temples, a complex of 100 temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Handicrafts shopping at the Lala Bazaar and Mall Road.
- Visit the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, located 18 miles from Almora which is a great place for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
- Paragliding. The small town of Binsar lies north of Almora, where you can paraglide into the Binsar and Almora region and capture breathtaking views of the Kumaon landscape.
7. Landour, Uttarakhand
If you are looking for a more accessible option for a serene vacation in Uttarakhand in June, then Landour located a mere 22 miles from the capital city of Dehradun is the ideal place to visit.
Continuous with the town of Mussoorie (“Queen of Hills”), Landour is a well-known British Raj-era hill station. The British India Raj government had a penchant for constructing and establishing cantonments at “hill stations” that served as retreats in the hot months of summer and as training centers for recruits and officers.
The name Landour comes from the village of Llandowror in southwest Wales. The lush green surroundings and pleasant climate reminded the commanding officer of his village in Wales.
Landour is known for its old-world British Raj-era architecture and heritage, serenity, and colonial charm. Combined with its sister town Mussoorie, Landour is one of the best destinations in India for an ideal summer holiday with the family.
Things to Do in Landour
- Explore colonial architecture. There are so many old churches, houses, and buildings that you can explore on a leisurely walk.
- Visit the adjacent Mussoorie, which is also a popular hill station, affectionately known as the “Queen of Hills.”
- Char Dukan (“Four Shops”) are an old remnant of the Raj era comprising 4 shops that have been in existence for almost one and half centuries.
- Hike up to the Lal Tibba in nearby Mussoorie, which is the highest point in the region, giving you views of the Doon hills and Landour Valley.
- Explore Landour’s famous walking trails.
- Coffee or Chai at the Sister’s Bazaar.
- Dine at the Rokeby Manor, a colonial-era heritage hotel.
8. Pelling, Sikkim (North East India)
Pelling is situated in the Gyalshing district of the North East Indian state of Sikkim at a height of 2,150 (7,200 feet), 80 miles from the capital city of Gangtok.
Hitherto an unexplored region, Pelling has become a popular station for tourists looking for an off-beat holiday amid lush green alpine vegetation, unique tribal culture, and nature trails. Excellent views of the Kanchenjunga, and the greater Himalayan ranges have further added to the allure of the region.
Things to Do in Pelling
- Watch the sun rise over Kanchenjunga, the highest mountain in India (the third highest in the world).
- Visit the holy rock of Rani Dhunga.
- Camping on the Khecheopalri Lake, which is considered holy by the Buddhist people.
- Explore the Rabdentse Palace Ruins. Rabdenstse was once the capital of the former Kingdom of Sikkim (1670-1814 AD) which was destroyed by a Gurkha invasion.
- Visit the Pemayangtse Monastery built in 1705 by Lama Lhatsun Chempo.
- Explore the Darap village of the Limbu tribe and learn about their way of life.
- Witness the Rimbi Waterfall en route to the Khecheopalri Lake, and the Changey Waterfall located 6 miles from Pelling.
- Explore the Sanga Choeling Monastery which dates back to 1697 AD.
9. Gangtok, Sikkim (Northeast India)
If you are in the northeast of India, then the capital city of Sikkim Gangtok is one of the best places to visit in the region. Located at a height of 1,650 meters (5,410 ft) in what is considered the Easter Himalayan range, the region consists of 3 Sikkimese ethnicities: Bhutia, Lepchas, and Nepalis.
As the state’s biggest and most populist city, Gangtok is the heart and soul of Sikkim. Pleasant all-year-round weather makes it one of the best places in India for a serene holiday.
Gangtok is a fine combination of scenic beauty, rich Sikkimese culture, rich heritage, ancient Buddhist monasteries, and hospitality.
Things to do in Gangtok
- Visit the ancient Enchey Monastery, one of the key Buddhist monasteries in the state.
- Leisurely walks on MG Road, the main promenade in the city which comprises shops, restaurants, and old buildings.
- Visit the glacial Tsomgo Lake.
- You can also visit the Indo-China border at the Nathula Pass. Entry, however, is limited and may not be granted under certain circumstances.
- Tashi Viewpoint for views of the Kanchenjunga ranges.
- Take the Gangtok (Ropeway) Cable Car.
- Wildlife spotting at the Himalayan Zoological Park.
- Sikkim Handicrafts and Handloom Center.
10. Darjeeling, West Bengal
Looking for an idyllic place to visit in India in June with family? Darjeeling is the place to be.
Perched at a height of 2,045 meters above sea level in the state of West Bengal, the charming hill station of Darjeeling is the most popular tourist destination in Eastern Himalayas. Along with Kolkata and the Sundarbans National Park, it is one of the top places to visit in this part of India.
Bordering the Kingdom of Bhutan to the east, the Tibet Autonomous Region in the farther north, Nepal to its west, and Bangladesh to the southeast, Darjeeling is a unique legatee to multiple cultures, ethnic influences, and historical traditions.
With mesmerizing views of the Himalayas, lush green cascading tea gardens, the world-famous Toy Train, colonial heritage sites, and top-notch hospitality infrastructure, Darjeeling is one of India’s most incredible places.
Things to do in Darjeeling
- Watch the sunrise over Mount Kanchenjunga from Tiger Hill located just outside Darjeeling town center. It is arguably one of the greatest sunrises in the world.
- Take the UNESCO World Heritage Site Darjeeling Himalayan Railway ride, popularly known as the Darjeeling Toy Train ride that winds through picturesque forests.
- Take a Plantation Tour to a Tea Estate to learn about the process of tea making.
- Buddhist Monastery Tour to the Yiga Choeling, Ghoom, and Bhutia Busy Monasteries.
- Visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI) and the Darjeeling Zoo.
- Explore the Japanese Peace Pagoda, a symbol of inter-faith harmony.
- White water Rafting in River Teesta.
- Stroll the Mall Road and Chowrasta promenades lined with shops, eateries, cafes, and restaurants.
11. Shillong, Meghalaya
The capital of the state of Meghalaya, nestled in the East Khasi Hills, was nicknamed the “Scotland of the East” by officers of the British Raj who found refuge here in the summer months to escape the summer heat.
A must-visit place in Meghalaya, Shillong boasts scenic rolling hills, waterfalls, vibrant indigenous cultures, lakes, Living Root Bridges, and caves.
Things to Do in the Shillong
- Visit the picturesque Barapani Lake, also known as the Umiam Lake.
- Explore the Elephants, Sweet, and Shadthum Water Falls.
- The Living Root Bridges of Cherranpunji and Maylynnong are marvelous feats of engineering of the Khasi people, whereby the roots of trees are guided to form walkable bridges over streams and waterways.
- Plan a day trip to “Wettest Place on Earth” Cherranpunji known for its waterfalls, lush greenery, and root bridges.
- Explore the Mawsmai and Arwah Caves.
- Learn about the history, culture, and heritage of the region at the Don Bosco Museum.
- Buy traditional Khasi handicrafts at the Bara and Police Bazaar.
12. Aizawl, Mizoram
Aizwal is the capital state of the Indian state of Mizoram. It is located at a height of 1,132 meters (3,714) feet above sea level.
Mizoram (the land of the Mizo people) does not get the attention it deserves from tourists, but this little Indian state that shares borders with Assam, Tripura, Manipur, and Bangladesh has its fair share of cultural and natural attractions.
Aizawl is known for its unique Mizo culture, Raj-era colonial buildings, traditional festivals like Chapchar Kut, Mim Kut, and Pawl Kut, and folk dances.
Things to Do in Aizawal
- Explore the rich culture of Aizwal with trips to its cultural landmarks, and local markets, and indulge in the traditional Mizo cuisine.
- Visit Solomon’s Temple, renowned for its unique architecture.
- Learn about the Mizo culture and history at the Mizoram State Museum.
- Taste the Mizo cuisine. We recommend the Bamboo Shoot Curry, Pork, and Sawhchiar Mizo Porridge.
- Visit the Cathedral of St. Paul.
- Trekking to the Durtlang Hills.
- Visit the Aizawl Zoological Park.
- Cultural immersion at the village of Reiek Tlang situated just outside the city.
13. Madhya Pradesh: Pachmarhi And Tiger Safaris In Panna, Bandhavgarh, & Kanha
The central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh is one of India’s best places for wildlife adventures and tiger safaris. National parks and tiger reserves of Madhya Pradesh like Kanha, Satpura, Panna, Madhav and Van Vihar offer great wildlife encounters.
With the highest density of the Royal Bengal Tigers anywhere in India, the Kanha, Bandhavgarh, and Panna are particularly famous for their Tiger Safaris.
If you can brave the heat in June, these national parks are the best places to visit in India in June for tiger sightings as these otherwise elusive animals that are masters of disguise tend to congregate around water holes to stay hydrated.
Pacnmarhi was the erstwhile summer capital of the Central Provinces. If you want a hill station vacation in June with family, then the town of Pachmarhi in the Narmadapuram district, located at a height of 1067 meters, is a great place to pay a visit. The region is part of the Satpura Biosphere Region which also houses the Satupura Tiger Reserve and the Satpura National Park.
Things to Do in Madhya Pradesh
- Tiger Safaris in Panna, Badhavgarh, Kanha or Satpura. With so many options of National Parks and Tiger Reserves to choose from in Madhya Pradesh, you are spoiled for choice. June is one of the best times to visit Tiger Safaris.
- Explore the scenic beauty of Pachmarhi in the Satpura Range of mountains. Pachmarhi boasts lush green mountains, cascading waterfalls, and rich fauna, including many tigers.
- Visit the waterfall of Pachmarhi like Bee Falls, Apsara Falls and Raja Prapat Falls.
- Explore the caves of Pachmarhi especially the Jata Shankar and Pandava Caves.
- Try adventure sports like rock climbing, rappelling and paragliding.
14. Coonoor, Tamil Nadu
The charming hill station of Coonoor (also spelled Kunnur) ensconced in the Nilgiri Mountain of the state of Tamil Nadu is a good place to escape the heat in south India.
Coonoor is famous for its tranquility, pleasant weather, waterfalls, hiking trails and rolling tea gardens. It is one of the most visited sites in southern India in the summer season.
Things to do in Coonoor
- Visit the Sim Botanical Garden which has a variety of exotic plants, flowers and trees.
- Tea Garden Tours. Learn about the tea-making process. Get to know the tea farmers and tea-plucking women. Enjoy freshly-brewed tea.
- Hike up to the Dolphin’s Nose Viewpoint to get mesmerizing views of the Nilgiri mountains range.
- Visit the famous Catherine Falls, which is a double-cascade waterfall and a popular tourist destination.
- Trek to Lamb’s Rock, another popular trail and viewpoint in Coonoor.
- Pay a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Nilgiri Mountain Railway.
15. Coorg, Karnataka
Also known as Kodagu, Coorg is located in the Western Ghats at a height of 984 meters (3,228 ft) above sea level in the state of Karnataka.
If you enjoy lush green landscapes, waterfalls, coffee plantations and a laidback off-beat ambiance, then Coorg is the place for you.
It is one of the most important coffee-producing regions in India which adds another dimension to its appeal. Coffee Plantation tours are a new sub-genre of tourism in the region that is gaining massive traction with local and international tourists.
Things to Do in Coorg
- A Coffee Plantation Tour. Learn about the art and process of coffee making on guided tours to plantations.
- Explore the historical Madikeri Fort which dates back to the 17th century.
- Enjoy the panoramic views of the Coorg’s landscape from the Raja’s Seat, a viewpoint that was the favorite of the rulers of the Coorg state.
- Visit Abbey Falls, a popular tourist spot.
- Picnic by the side of Talakaveri River, which is considered a sacred river in these parts.
- Visit the Namdroling Buddhist Monastery, also known as the Golden Temple.
- Birdwatching.
