10 Best Places to Visit in India in June

June marks the arrival of the monsoon in many parts of India, offering a unique charm and refreshing landscapes. While some regions get soaked in rain, others remain pleasant and ideal for travel. If you're wondering where to go in India in June, here are the top 10 destinations to consider for an unforgettable vacation.

1. Munnar, Kerala

Surrounded by lush tea plantations, Munnar becomes a misty paradise during June. The monsoon rains add to its natural charm, making it perfect for nature lovers and honeymooners.

• Top Attractions: Eravikulam National Park, Tea Museum, Mattupetty Dam
• Weather: Cool and rainy

2. Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Manali offers a cool retreat with snow-capped mountains, adventure activities, and scenic valleys. In early June, you can still enjoy a mix of sunshine and snow.

• Top Attractions: Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, Old Manali
• Weather: Pleasant, 10–25°C

3. Coorg, Karnataka

Known as the "Scotland of India," Coorg is stunning in June with mist-covered coffee plantations and gushing waterfalls.

• Top Attractions: Abbey Falls, Dubare Elephant Camp, Raja's Seat
• Weather: Mild showers, lush greenery

4. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh

If you're looking for serenity and spirituality, Tawang is an ideal choice. With Buddhist monasteries and scenic lakes, it remains relatively untouched by heavy tourism.

• Top Attractions: Tawang Monastery, Madhuri Lake, Sela Pass
• Weather: Cool and dry, ideal for exploration

5. Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir

One of the few places that are best visited in summer, Ladakh opens up in June with clear roads and stunning views. Perfect for bike trips and adventure seekers.

• Top Attractions: Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, Khardung La Pass
• Weather: Dry and sunny, 15–25°C

6. Darjeeling, West Bengal

With its rolling tea gardens and colonial charm, Darjeeling is a cool escape from the summer heat.

• Top Attractions: Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
• Weather: Mild rain, foggy mornings

7. Mount Abu, Rajasthan

The only hill station in Rajasthan, Mount Abu offers a pleasant climate and lush surroundings, especially with light rains during June.

• Top Attractions: Nakki Lake, Dilwara Temples, Sunset Point
• Weather: Cool and breezy

8. Shillong, Meghalaya

Known as the “Scotland of the East,” Shillong is spectacular in the monsoon with waterfalls and cloud-covered hills.

• Top Attractions: Umiam Lake, Elephant Falls, Shillong Peak
• Weather: Wet and beautiful

9. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

Spiritual and adventurous, Rishikesh is perfect for yoga retreats, river rafting, and scenic views in early June before the monsoon intensifies.

• Top Attractions: Laxman Jhula, Beatles Ashram, Ganga Aarti
• Weather: Warm days, occasional rain

10. Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh

Ideal for offbeat travelers, Spiti Valley becomes accessible in June. Rugged mountains, ancient monasteries, and minimal crowds make it a gem.

• Top Attractions: Key Monastery, Chandratal Lake, Kaza
• Weather: Dry and cold

Final Thoughts

June is an exciting time to explore India, with options ranging from green hill stations to arid mountain valleys. Whether you want relaxation or adventure, there's a perfect destination waiting for you. Don't forget to check the local weather before you go, and book early to get the best deals!

Have questions or want a customized travel plan? Contact us here and we’ll help you plan your perfect June vacation in India.

A Guide to Exploring the Serene Beauty of Kerala Backwaters

Kerala, often referred to as "God's Own Country," is renowned for its lush landscapes, serene backwaters, and rich cultural heritage. Among its many attractions, the Kerala backwaters stand out as a unique and tranquil experience that beckons travelers seeking solace in nature's embrace. These serene waterways, a labyrinthine network of rivers, lakes, and canals, offer a unique glimpse into Kerala's natural beauty and rural life. This guide aims to navigate you through the ethereal beauty of Kerala's backwaters, offering insights into how to best explore and appreciate this natural wonder.

Understanding Kerala Backwaters

The Kerala backwaters are a network of interconnected rivers, lakes, and lagoons that lie parallel to the Arabian Sea coast. Stretching over 900 kilometers, these backwaters are formed by the intricate network of canals and waterways that weave through villages, rice paddies, and coconut groves. The primary regions famous for backwater experiences include Alleppey (Alappuzha), Kumarakom, Kollam, and Kasargod.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to explore Kerala's backwaters is during the winter months, from October to February, when the weather is pleasantly cool and dry. This period offers comfortable conditions for cruising along the waterways and enjoying the natural beauty without the interruption of heavy rainfall.

Modes of Exploration

1. Houseboats (Kettuvallams): One of the most popular ways to experience the backwaters is by renting a traditional houseboat, known as a kettuvallam. These houseboats, once used for transporting rice and spices, have been converted into luxurious floating accommodations with bedrooms, bathrooms, and even kitchens. Cruising on a houseboat allows you to leisurely drift along the waterways, passing by lush greenery and quaint villages. Most houseboats come with a crew, including a chef who prepares delicious Keralan meals using fresh local ingredients.

2.   Shikara Rides: Similar to those in Kashmir, shikaras in Kerala are smaller, motorized boats ideal for short rides or day trips on the backwaters. They offer a more intimate experience compared to houseboats and allow for closer interaction with local life along the banks.

3.   Canoeing and Kayaking: For the adventurous traveler, canoeing or kayaking through narrow canals and waterways provides a more active and immersive way to explore the backwaters. This allows you to navigate through smaller channels and get closer to wildlife and birdlife that thrive in these habitats.

Responsible Tourism

While enjoying the backwaters, it's crucial to practice responsible tourism:

·      Respect Local Customs: Kerala has a rich cultural heritage; respect local traditions and customs, especially when visiting villages and religious sites.

·  Eco-Friendly Practices: Opt for eco-friendly houseboats that follow sustainable practices. Minimize plastic usage and avoid littering to preserve the pristine beauty of the backwaters.

 

Must-Visit Attractions

·         Alleppey (Alappuzha): Known as the "Venice of the East," Alleppey is famous for its intricate network of canals, lakes, and lagoons. A visit here often includes cruising past paddy fields, quaint villages, and witnessing local life along the banks.

·         Kumarakom: Located near the Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom offers a quieter and more laid-back backwater experience. It's also home to the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, where you can spot migratory birds like Siberian storks and egret.

·         Kollam: This lesser-explored backwater destination offers a glimpse into the rural life of Kerala, with its serene waterways bordered by coconut palms and traditional fishing villages.

Cultural Experiences

Exploring Kerala's backwaters isn't just about the scenery; it's also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture:

·    Visit Villages: Take a walk through the villages along the backwaters to interact with locals, observe traditional fishing techniques, and witness artisans at work.

·     Attend a Kathakali Performance: Kathakali is a traditional dance-drama of Kerala, known for its vibrant costumes, elaborate makeup, and expressive storytelling. Many resorts and cultural centers near the backwaters offer performances for visitors.

·    Culinary Delights: Indulge in authentic Keralan cuisine aboard your houseboat or at local eateries along the backwaters. Don't miss specialties like fresh seafood cooked in coconut milk and traditional dishes like appam with stew.

Conclusion

Exploring Kerala's backwaters is not just a journey through stunning landscapes but a cultural immersion into one of India's most enchanting regions. Whether you choose a luxurious houseboat cruise or opt for a more adventurous kayak ride, the backwaters promise a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Embrace the tranquility, savor the local flavors, and discover why Kerala's backwaters remain a timeless gem in the heart of South India.

 

Chota Imambara (Hussainabad Imambara) - Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India

Chota Imambara, also known as Hussainabad Imambara is an imposing monument located in the city of Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India. It was built by Muhammad Ali Shah, The third Nawab of Avadh in 1838, it was to serve as his own mausoleum. It is also known as the Palace of Lights because of its decorations during special festivals.

Bara Imambara (Asafi Imambara) - Uttar Pradesh, India

Bara Imambara is an imambara complex in Lucknow, India, built by Asaf-ud-Daula, Nawab of Lucknow, in 1784. It is also called the Asafi Imambara. Bara means big, and an imambara is a shrine built by Shia Muslims for the purpose of Azadari. The Bara Imambara is among the grandest buildings of Lucknow.

Hawa Mahal - Jaipur, Rajasthan, India

Hawa Mahal is a palace in Jaipur, India. It was built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, and designed by Lal Chand Ustad in the form of the crown of Krishna, the Hindu god. Its unique five-storey exterior is also akin to the honeycomb of the beehive with its 953 small windows called jharokhas that are decorated with intricate latticework. The original intention of the lattice was to allow royal ladies to observe everyday life in the street below without being seen, since they had to observe strict "purdah" (face cover).

Built of red and pink sandstone, the palace is situated on the main thoroughfare in the heart of Jaipur's business centre. It forms part of the City Palace, and extends to the Zenana or women's chambers, the chambers of the harem. It is particularly striking when viewed early in the morning, lit with the golden light of sunrise.

Phugtal Monastery - Ladakh, India

Phugtal Monastery or Phugtal Gompa is a monastery in south-eastern Zanskar, Ladakh in northern India.

Founded by Gangsem Sherap Sampo in the early 12th century, the monastery is a unique construction built into the cliffside like a honeycomb. It located on the mouth of a cave on the cliff face of a lateral gorge of a major tributary of the Lungnak (Lingti-Tsarap) River.

Wat Rong Khun – The White Temple of Thailand

Wat Rong Khun is a contemporary unconventional Buddhist temple in Chiang Rai, Thailand. It was designed by Chalermchai Kositpipat. Construction began in 1996 and is expected to be completed 60 - 90 years after the death of the artist and designer.