Affordable Summer Vacation Destinations in India for Families
Budget summer vacation destinations in india:
Summer is upon us, and now is the perfect time to plan a wonderful escape for the family! A perfect summer adventure with the family can be made possible in India, from a good dose of mountainous hill stations to serene beach settings-all these at little cost.
So, in this blog, we will be covering the best budget summer holiday destinations in India for families. Most of these places experience great weather, have budget-friendly hotels, and have fun things for people from all age groups to do.
Hill stations in india:
Indeed, India is house of some of the best hill stations for summer vacations, where one really has to escape the sweltering heat. Manali, Ooty, and Darjeeling are some such destinations that enjoy maximum cool weather with lush greenery around and unbelievably beautiful landscapes for an added refreshing touch during summer vacations. What these hill resorts offer are so much more than just natural beauty; there are adventure activities and cultural experiences, and of course, local food relishes all tied on to making the journey memorable for families.
Best Budget Hill Station:
For families, here are some of the best budget hill stations in India that will easily provide a lot of cheap things and experiences at low costs. Kodaikanal, Mount Abu, and Mahabaleshwar have many budget halls, cheap local transport, and a number of free sightseeing spots. With smart travelling plans, families can enjoy a free and easy-going summer holiday without spending a huge amount of money.
1. Shimla & Kufri, Himachal Pradesh
Shimla, the “Queen of Hills,” boasts the maximum popularity in summer travel in India. It is quite pleasant and cool here. It is the ideal getaway when the going gets too hot.
Attractions:
✔️ The Ridge & Mall Road – The place for shopping and evening walk.
✔️ Kufri Fun World – An amusement park where children can enjoy some rides.
✔️ Jakhoo Temple – Be amazed by the views of the hills.
Budget Tip: Instead of central Shimla, stay at Kufri to avail cheaper hotel rates.
🔸Delhi to Shimla-Kufri (Best for Snow & Colonial Charm)
Route: Delhi → Chandigarh → Solan → Shimla → Kufri
Distance: ~350 km
Travel Time: 8-9 hours by road
Why? A classic hill station route with picturesque views, adventure activities, and a touch of British-era charm.
2. Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Manali is one of the most beautiful hill stations, with snow-capped peaks and rolling green valleys, which match its adventurous activities. Holidaying in Manali is great for relaxation, and it is an adventure for thrill-seekers.
Attractions:
✔️ Hadimba Temple – A serene temple enveloped in the embrace of towering deodar trees.
✔️ Solang Valley – Engage in paragliding, ropeway rides, or snow-laden activities.
✔️ Mall Road – Ideal for shopping and trying out some local dishes.
Budget Tip: Instead of a personal taxicab, buses is best Affordable option for transportation.
🔸 Delhi to Manali (Best for Budget Travelers & Adventure Seekers)
Route: Delhi → Chandigarh → Mandi → Manali
Distance: ~540 km
Travel Time: 12-14 hours by road
Why? This route offers stunning mountain views, affordable stay options, and adventure activities like paragliding and trekking.
3. Darjeeling, West Bengal
Darjeeling represents a tropical paradise that is famous with its tea garden, beautiful mountains, and toy train. The weather is fair, and the town contains the perfect mix of adventure, culture, and nature.
Top Attractions:
✔️ Tiger Hill – Sunrise view of the snow-covered mountains.
✔️ Darjeeling Himalayan Railway – Small train with great views.
✔️ Peace Pagoda – Beautiful Buddhist temple in a very quiet mood.
Budget Tip: Opt for budget home stays as opposed to exorbitantly priced hotels.
🔸Kolkata to Darjeeling (Best for Scenic Train Journeys & Tea Gardens)
Route: Kolkata → Siliguri → Darjeeling
Distance: ~615 km
Travel Time: 12-14 hours (Train + Road)
Why? Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, breathtaking tea plantations, and budget homestays make it a great pick.
4. Munnar, Kerala
The green tea gardens, waterfalls, and cool climate are all major props in making Munnar an ideal summer getaway. Indeed, it is one of the best destinations for nature lovers.
Top Attractions:
✔️ Eravikulam National Park – Spot the rare Nilgiri Tahr (mountain goat).
✔️ Mattupetty Dam – Peaceful boat ride.
✔️ Tea Gardens – To visit tea factories and learn how tea is produced.
Budget Tip: Small guest houses instead of luxurious resorts.
🔸Best Route to Munnar, Kerala (Best for Tea Plantations & Misty Hills)
Route: Kochi → Aluva → Perumbavoor → Adimali → Munnar
Distance: ~130 km
Travel Time: 4-5 hours by road
Why? This route takes you through winding roads, waterfalls, and lush tea gardens, making it one of the most scenic drives in South India.
5. Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Among the finest summer holiday destinations in the region of South India, Ooty has a lovely, cool weather and, as country would be covered with gardens, lakes, and those lovely rolling hills.
Some of the major attractions:
✔️ Ooty Lake – Boating and cycling with the family.
✔️ Botanical Garden – Nice place to rest and spend time with flowers and plants.
✔️ Doddabetta Peak – Highest point in Ooty with breathtaking views.
Budget Tip: Nilgiri Toy Train traveling for affordable yet scenic travel.
🔸Bangalore to Ooty (Best for Weekend Getaways)
Route: Bangalore → Mysore → Bandipur → Ooty
Distance: ~270 km
Travel Time: 6-7 hours by road
Why? A scenic drive through Bandipur National Park, tea gardens, and cool weather make it perfect for a weekend retreat.
6. Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra
Well known for its strawberry farms, waterfalls, and viewpoints, Mahabaleshwar is a perfect place to cool down during summer holidays. This is one of the best budget hill station in Maharashtra.
Top Attractions:
✔️ Venna Lake – Boating facilitation and pony ride.
✔️ Mapro Garden – Strawberry ice creams and milkshake.
✔️ Arthur’s Seat – Eye-catching view of the valleys.
Budget Tip: Travel the first week of June to skip the crowd of tourists.
🔸Mumbai to Mahabaleshwar (Best for Families & Nature Lovers
Route: Mumbai → Pune → Wai → Mahabaleshwar
Distance: ~263 km
Travel Time: 6-7 hours by road
Why? A budget-friendly, family-friendly hill station with waterfalls, strawberry farms, and pleasant weather.
7. Mount Abu, Rajasthan
Mount Abu is the only hill station in Rajasthan-it deeply connects with summer holidays. Lakes, temples, view points-all with very low priced entry- are sure to melt your heart.
Top Attractions:
✔️ Nakki Lake- For a relaxing boat ride, just ideal.
✔️ Guru Shikhar- The highest peak of Rajasthan, known for splendid views.
✔️ Dilwara temples- Recognized for impressive marble carvings.
Budget Tip: Dine in local dhabas instead of costly restaurants.
🔸 Udaipur to Mount Abu (Best for Rajasthan’s Only Hill Station)
Route: Udaipur → Pindwara → Mount Abu
Distance: ~165 km
Travel Time: 3-4 hours by road
Why? A quick and easy road trip to a cool hill station with Dilwara Temples and Nakki Lake.
8. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
This hill station is much more quietly calling than Ooty. It swathes the country into misty valleys, waterfalls, and lakes, and enriches jaded lives with affordable stays.
Top Attractions:
✔️ Kodaikanal Lake – Cycling, boating, horse riding.
✔️ Pillar Rocks – Surrounded with clouds, a lovely viewpoint.
✔️ Coaker’s Walk- Famous for relaxed evening walks.
Budget Tip: Spend on government cottages for a low-priced stay.
🔸Chennai to Kodaikanal (Best for Honeymooners & Nature Enthusiasts)
Route: Chennai → Trichy → Dindigul → Kodaikanal
Distance: ~525 km
Travel Time: 10-11 hours by road
Why? Misty mountains, lakes, and budget-friendly cottages offer a perfect romantic escape.
9. Coorg, Karnataka
Scotland of India” is its name due to the green hills and coffee plantations all over it.An amazing summer travel destination, it stays pleasant the whole year.
Top Attractions:
✔️ Abbey Falls – A beautiful waterfall in the lap of nature.
✔️ Dubare Elephant Camp – Kids love to feed and bathe elephants.
✔️ Madikeri Fort- A very good perspective of the historical site.
Budget Tip: Opt for a homestay in a coffee plantation-for an unforgettable experience.
🔸Bangalore to Coorg (Best for Coffee Plantations & Nature Lovers)
Route: Bangalore → Mysore → Hunsur → Coorg
Distance: ~265 km
Travel Time: 5-6 hours by road
Why? A scenic drive through lush green coffee estates and waterfalls, ideal for a peaceful getaway.
10. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
When thinking about summer, Tawang stands out as an ideal less traveled destination. The place is quiet, easy on pockets, all under snow-capped mountains.
Top Attractions:
✔️ Tawang Monastery-Most prominent and largest Buddhist monastery in India.
✔️ Sela Pass-An elevated mountain pass, covered with snow.
✔️ Nuranang Waterfalls-A hidden treat for nature lovers.
Budget Tip: Save money on expensive air flights-travel via Guwahati.
🔸Guwahati to Tawang (Best for Adventure & Monastery Visits)
Route: Guwahati → Tezpur → Bomdila → Tawang
Distance: ~520 km
Travel Time: 13-15 hours by road (2 days recommended)
Why? This challenging but scenic route passes through Sela Pass and beautiful landscapes of Arunachal Pradesh.
There is a myriad of hill stations in India where you could visit during the summer. Seek adventure, relax, or just enjoy mesmerizing views; these hill stations promise experiences that will not be forgotten in a hurry. From the pristine green woods of Munnar to the cobbled streets of Shimla, every hill station has something special to boast about.
For thrifty travelers, one can view the best budget hill stations in India for a refreshing vacation without breaking the bank. Kodaikanal, Mount Abu, and Coorg are examples of amazing affordable places of staying, good local food, views, and places ideal for family travel. Plan wisely, travel smart, and make the most of your summer break!
Frequently Asked Questions about Best budget Hill Stations and Routes
What is the best time to visit hill stations in India during summer?
The ideal time to visit hill stations in India for summer is from March to June, as the weather remains cool and pleasant before the monsoon season begins
. Which are the best hill stations in India for summer vacations?
Some of the best hill stations in India for summer are Shimla, Manali, Darjeeling, Munnar, Ooty, and Coorg. These destinations offer cool weather and scenic beauty, making them perfect for escaping the summer heat.
What are some affordable hill stations in India for families?
Budget-friendly hill stations in India include Kodaikanal, Mount Abu, Mahabaleshwar, and Tawang. These places offer reasonable accommodations, affordable food, and great sightseeing options.
Which hill station in India is less crowded in summer?
Lesser-known and peaceful hill stations like Tawang, Chamba, and Yercaud are great options if you want to avoid crowds during the summer.
