Summer: Top Must-Visit Domestic and International Destinations for Summer Travel

Finally, summer has arrived and many of us have started planning for the summer holidays. Welcome to our guide to the top must-visit domestic and international destinations for summer travel! As the temperature rises and the sun shines brighter, it is the perfect time to start exciting adventures near and far. Whether you are a family, a couple, a friend, or a solo traveler, these destinations are suitable for all. It brings a plethora of unforgettable experiences and endless fun. So, what are you waiting for? Prepare yourself by packing your bags, grabbing your sunscreen, and readying yourself to discover these incredible places.

Domestic Trip

Mahabaleshwar

Mahabaleshwar is famous for its stunning natural beauty, lush grass, and breathtaking views. It is located in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra. A lot of people come here to see the peaceful lakes, old temples, and cool weather in the middle of strawberry fields.

Most loved places

• Pratapgad Fort
• Elphinstone Point
• Mahabaleshwar Temple
• Connaught Peak
• Lingmala Waterfall Point
• Venna Lake

Foods to try

• Strawberries
• Maharashtrian Thali
• Chikki
• Bharli Vangi
• Parsi Food

How to reach

• The nearest railway station is Wathar Railway Station (60 km away).
• The nearest airport is Pune Airport (120 km away).

Where should I stay?

• Leela Resort, The Exotic Boutique Hotel
• Mountain Breeze Hotel
• Courtyard by Marriott
• The Arowana with Nest

Mount Abu

Mount Abu, the only hill station in Rajasthan, is a cool place to get away from the sweltering desert heat. Visitors come to the Aravalli Range to find peace and spiritual renewal in its beautiful scenery, such as at Nakki Lake and the Dilwara Temples.

Most loved places

• Dilwara Temple
• Sunset Point
• Nakki Lake
• Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary
• Guru Shikhar
• Toad Rock

Foods to try

• Dal Batti and Churma
• Gatte ki Sabji
• Ghoogri
• Pakori
• Rajasthani Thali

How to reach

• The nearest railway station is Abu Road Railway Station (28 km away).
• Nearest Airport: Maharana Pratap Airport, Udaipur (around 180 km away)

Where should I stay?

• Hotel Savera Palace
• Hotel Castle Rock
• Bikaner House
• Sun Hotel and Resort

Pachmarhi

Within Madhya Pradesh, Pachmarhi is a charming hill town known for its thick forests, gushing waterfalls, and prehistoric cave dwellings. It has hiking trails for people who like to be active and learn about history. For example, there are colonial ruins and old rock paintings to explore.

Most loved places

• Bee Falls
• Priyadarshini Point
• Dhupgarh
• Baba Mahadev Caves
• Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve
• Chauragarh

Foods to try

• Biryani
• Jalebi
• Ladoos
• Bhutte ki kees
• Korma
• Rogan Josh
• Dal Bafla

How to reach

• The nearest railway station is Pipariya Railway Station (around 50 km away).
• The nearest airport is Raja Bhoj Airport in Bhopal (around 195 km away).

Where should I stay?

• Greendale Resort
• Woodland
• MPT Glen View
• Pandav Retreat

Almora

Almora is in the Kumaon Hills in Uttarakhand. It has views of the Himalayas. Narrow, cobblestone streets lined with old-fashioned wooden buildings lead to historic temples and lively markets, showing the area's timeless draw.

Most loved places

• Chitai Golu Devta Temple
• Kasar Devi Temple
• Katarmal Sun Temple
• Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary
• Gananath Mandir
• Lala Bazar

Foods to try

• Bhang ki chutney
• Dubuk
• Singodi Sweet
• Bal Mithai Sweet

How to reach

• Kathgodam Railway Station (approximately 90 km away) is the nearest railway station.
• The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport (around 125 km away).

Where should I stay?

• Hotel Aeradayo Inn
• 10 Nautical Miles
• Nayalap
• BluzSalzz Homes
• StayVista at Evergreen at The Village Walk

Pahalgam

Pahalgam, which is in the middle of the Kashmir Valley, is a nature lover's and adventurer's dream. It is surrounded by lush meadows, pine woods, and snow-capped peaks, and you can go hiking, fishing, or just enjoy the peaceful beauty of the Lidder River.

Most loved places

• Wadi e Hajan
• Shri Amarnath Cave Temple
• Deno Valley
• Mamleshwar Temple
• Tulian Lake
• Sheshnag
• Sinthan Top

Foods to try

• Rogan Josh
• Dum Aloo
• Yakhni
• Goshtaba
• Modur Pulao

How to reach

• The nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi Railway Station (around 280 km away).
• Srinagar Airport (about 90 km away) is the nearest airport.

Where should I stay?

• Posh Luxury Camps Pahalgam, By the River
• Hotel Green Heights
• Welcome Resort
• Radisson Golf Resort

Katra

The town of Katra in Jammu and Kashmir is very busy and is where many people start their journey to see Vaishno Devi. Before going on their spiritual trip to the holy shrine in the Trikuta Mountains, many people crowd the city's busy streets, which are lined with shops selling religious gifts and tasty treats from the area.

Most loved places

• Vaishno Devi
• The Nau Devi Cave Temple
• Mandir Charan Paduka

How to reach

• The nearest railway station is Katra Railway Station (within the town).
• The nearest airport is Jammu Airport (around 50 km away).

Foods to try

• Rajma Chawal
• Paranthas
• Baingan ka Bharta

Where should I stay?

• Hotel Katra Hills
• Hotel Narayan
• The Vaishnodevi Sarovar Portico
• Cardinal Ambica

Kohima

Kohima, the city of Nagaland, is a place that combines natural beauty, tribal culture, and cultural and historical importance. The National War Cemetery there remembers the Battle of Kohima, and the Hornbill Festival in the green hills of northeast India shows off the state's many customs.

Most loved places

• Puliebadze, Jotsoma Village
• Nagaland State Museum
• Kisama Heritage Village
• Kohima Cathedral Church
• Shilloi Lake
• Dzuleke
• Japvo
• Tibetan Market
• Botanical Garden

Foods to try

• Smoked Meat
• Fish
• Wild game meat
• Bamboo shoots fry.
• Traditional stews

How to reach

• The nearest railway station is Dimapur Railway Station (around 75 km away).
• Dimapur Airport (about 80 km away) is the nearest airport.

Where should I stay?

• Crescent International Hotel
• Alder Retreat
• Niraamaya retreats to Ardura.
• La Colline Resort

International Trip

Pokhara, Nepal

In the Himalayas, Nepal is a country with an unmatchable natural beauty. At its highest point, Mount Everest, and at its calmest, the lakes of Pokhara, it gives an unforgettable experience to both adventurers and spiritual seekers.

Most loved places

• Phewa Lake
• Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave
• Pokhara Lakeside
• Bhimsen Temple
• Sarangkot Sunrise

Where should I stay?

• Hotel Lake Shore
• Hotel Blossom
• Hotel Portland
• The Middle Path Hotel & Spa

Visa Details

• Nepal offers visas on arrival for most nationalities at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and at several land border crossings.
• Visa fees vary depending on the duration of the stay.
• Typically, we grant tourist visas for 15, 30, or 90 days.
• Visitors must have a passport valid for at least six months from the date of arrival.
• A visa extension is possible for a maximum total stay of 150 days in a visa year (January to December).
• Visa application forms are available at entry points or can be filled out online in advance.
• Multiple-entry visas are also available.

Foods to try

• Thakali Thali
• Sel Roti
• The fish was fried to perfection.

How to reach

• By Air: Fly to Pokhara Airport from Kathmandu or other major cities.
• By road: Take a bus or hire a private vehicle from Kathmandu or other nearby cities. The journey takes around 6–7 hours.
• Trekking: Some adventurous travelers prefer trekking routes from nearby areas such as Nayapul or Dhampus.

Punakha, Bhutan

Bhutan, which is also known as the "Land of the Thunder Dragon," is a secluded paradise with deeply rooted customs. Gross National Happiness (GNH) is more important than GDP in this country, which has both old monasteries high on cliffs and lush valleys complete with prayer flags.

Most loved places

• Paro Taktsang
• Punakha Dzong
• Phobjikha Valley
• Dochula Pass
• Simtokha Dzong

Where should I stay?

• Pemako Thimpu
• Gangtey Lodge
• Le Meridien Paro Riverfront
• The address is DusitD2 Yarkay Thimphu.

Visa Details

• All visitors to Bhutan require a visa, except for citizens of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives.
• Only after booking a trip with a licensed Bhutanese tour operator are visas issued.
• The tour operator in Bhutan processes visa applications.
• The Bhutanese government sets a daily tariff for tourists that covers accommodation, meals, transportation, and guide services.
• The Tourism Council of Bhutan issues visa clearance upon receipt of full payment.
• Tourists receive their visa clearance at immigration checkpoints upon arrival.
• Visas are usually valid for the duration of the booked tour.

Foods to try

• Ema Datshi
• Momos
• Puta
• Ara
• Thuep
• Kewa Datshi

How to reach

• Fly to Paro International Airport, Bhutan's only international airport.
• Major airlines operate flights from cities like Delhi, Kathmandu, Bangkok, and Singapore.

Switzerland

Switzerland, known for its beautiful mountain scenery, is a great place for people who love the outdoors and chocolate. Switzerland is always stunningly beautiful, whether you're skiing in the Swiss Alps, taking a cruise on Lake Geneva, or visiting cute towns like Lucerne.

Most loved places

• Matterhorn
• Jungfraujoch
• Lake Geneva
• Lucerne
• Interlaken
• Zurich

Where should I stay?

• Bürgenstock Hotel & Resort, Lake Lucerne
• Badrutt's Palace Hotel, St. Moritz
• The name is Chedi Andermatt.
• The Dolder Grand, Zurich

Visa Details

• Apply at the Swiss embassy or consulate in your home country.
• Required documents include a completed application form, passport-sized photos, a passport with validity beyond your intended stay, a travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, proof of sufficient funds, and travel insurance.
• Visa processing time varies but typically takes a few weeks.
• Fees apply for visa processing.
• Visa validity ranges from short-stay (up to 90 days) to long-stay (more than 90 days).
• Schengen visa holders can visit Switzerland as part of their itinerary.
• Ensure compliance with all visa regulations to avoid complications.

Foods to try

• Fondue
• Raclette
• Birchermüesli
• Rosti

How to reach

• Major international airports include Zurich Airport (ZRH) and Geneva Airport (GVA).
• Direct flights are available from many major cities worldwide.
• Airlines such as Swiss International Air Lines, Lufthansa, and others operate regular flights to Switzerland.

Iceland

Iceland has volcanoes, glaciers, and geysers that look like they belong in another world. It is a place of raw natural beauty and excitement. There are amazing things to do everywhere you go, from relaxing in hot springs under the midnight sun to searching for the Northern Lights.

Most loved places

• Glacier Lagoon
• Gullfoss Waterfall
• Thingvellir National Park
• Perlan
• Skogafoss

Where should I stay?

• Hotel Selfoss
• Konvin Hotel
• Hotel Dyrholaey
• Aurora Hotel

Visa Details

• Application Process: Apply through the nearest Icelandic embassy or consulate.
• Required Documents: Valid passport, completed visa application form, passport-sized photos, travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, travel insurance, and proof of financial means.
• Visa Fee: Varies based on nationality and visa type.
• Processing Time: Typically takes 15 days.
• Stay Duration: Up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
• Purpose: tourism, business, visiting family or friends, attending conferences.
• Additional Requirements: You may need a letter of invitation, proof of employment, or educational enrollment.
• Consult the embassy website for specific details and updates.

Foods to try

• Harkari
• Reykjavik's Hot Dog
• Ice cream and cheese
• Rye bread

How to reach

• By Air: Keflavík International Airport (KEF) is the main international airport in Iceland, located near Reykjavik. Direct flights are available from major cities worldwide. Airlines like Icelandair, Delta, British Airways, and WOW Air operate flights to Iceland.

 

• By Sea: During the summer months, cruise ships dock at ports like Reykjavik and Akureyri. Popular cruise routes include those from Europe and North America. Ferry services operate from Denmark and the Faroe Islands to Iceland, providing an alternative travel option.

Singapore

Singapore is an exciting city-state where old and new cultures come together. The city has a wide range of attractions for all types of visitors, from futuristic skyscrapers and lush urban parks to busy street markets and hawker stalls with Michelin stars.

Most loved places

• Gardens by the Bay
• Sentosa Island
• Marina Bay Sands
• Singapore Botanic Gardens
• Chinatown
• Orchard Road
• Singapore Zoo and Night Safari
• Clarke Quay

Where should I stay?

• The Fullerton Hotel
• Mandarin Oriental
• The Ritz-Carlton
• Marina Bay Sands

Visa Details

• Nationals of many countries are eligible for visa-free entry for up to 30, 60, or 90 days.
• Citizens from countries not eligible for visa-free entry must apply for a visa through the appropriate channels.
• Types of visas include tourist, business, and employment visas.
• Requirements typically include a valid passport, a completed visa application form, a recent photograph, proof of travel arrangements, and proof of sufficient funds.
• Processing times vary but generally take a few days to a few weeks.
• Visa extensions may be possible under certain circumstances.
• It's advisable to check the latest visa requirements before planning travel.

Foods to try

• Ice Kacang
• Kaya Toast
• Roti Prata
• Char Kway Teow
• Hainanese Chicken Rice

How to reach

• By Air:

Changi Airport is Singapore's main international airport, served by numerous airlines worldwide. Direct flights are available from major cities globally. Indirect flights from smaller cities with layovers. The airport is well-connected to the city center via MRT, taxis, and buses.

• By Sea:

Cruise ships offer routes to Singapore's Marina Bay Cruise Centre. Various cruise lines operate routes from nearby countries, such as Malaysia and Indonesia.

Bali

Bali is a tropical paradise with gorgeous beaches, lush rice fields, and old temples that draw both sunbathers and people looking for spiritual guidance. Bali is a beautiful place to visit, whether you want to surf in Kuta, check out the artsy vibe in Ubud, or hike up Mount Batur to see the sunrise.

Most loved places

• Ubud
• Uluwatu Temple
• Tanah Lot
• Tegallalang Rice Terraces
• Mount Batur
• Seminyak
• Nusa Penida
• Tirta Empul Temple

Where should I stay?

• Bliss Surfer Hotel
• Grandmas Plus Hotel Seminyak
• Ping Hotel Seminyak Bali
• Kuta Paradiso Hotel
• POP! Hotel Denpasar Teuku Umar

Visa Details

• Bali offers a Visa on Arrival (VoA) for many nationalities, including citizens of the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and many European countries.
• For tourism purposes, the VoA allows stays of up to 30 days.
• Visitors must have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond their arrival date.
• You can extend the VoA once for an extra 30 days.
• The fee for the VoA is payable in cash (US dollars) upon arrival.
• Visa requirements and fees may vary, so it's advisable to check with the Indonesian embassy or consulate before travel.

Foods to try

• Nasi Goreng Sayur
• Tahu Isi
• Sayur Urab
• Babi Guling
• Sate Lilit

How to reach

By Air:

• Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar is the main gateway to Bali.
• Direct flights are available from major cities worldwide.
• From the airport, taxis, shuttles, and car rentals are readily available for transport to your destination.

By Sea:

• Cruise ships occasionally dock at Bali's ports, such as Benoa Port.
• Ferry services connect Bali with nearby islands like Java and Lombok.

Austria

From the majestic peaks of the Alps to the charming streets of Vienna, Austria is a country steeped in history, culture, and natural splendor. Whether you're waltzing in Vienna's palaces, skiing in the Tyrolean Alps, or savoring a slice of Sachertorte in Salzburg, Austria offers a timeless charm that enchants visitors year-round.

Most loved places

• Vienna
• Salzburg
• Innsbruck
• Hallstatt

Where should I stay?

• Hotel Daniel
• Wombats City Hostel
• Hotel Imlauer & Bräu, Salzburg
• A&O Wien Hauptbahnhof

Visa Details

• Required for short-term stays (up to 90 days) in Austria and other Schengen countries.
• Application through the Austrian embassy or consulate in your home country.
• Necessary documents include a passport, a visa application form, passport-sized photos, a travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, travel insurance, financial means proof, and a visa fee payment.
• Processing time typically takes 15 calendar days.
• Visa validity depends on the purpose of travel.
• Additional requirements may apply based on individual circumstances.
• A visa allows for tourism, business, family visits, or other short-term purposes in

Foods to try

• Kaiserschmarrn
• Kasnudeln
• Spinatknödel
• Käsespätzle
• Wiener Schnitzel
• Leberkäse

How to reach

By Air:

• Vienna International Airport (VIE) is the main gateway.
• Direct flights are available from major international airports worldwide.
• Domestic flights connect Vienna with other Austrian cities.

List of Essentials for a Summer Trip

Packing for a summer trip requires careful consideration of both essentials and personal preferences to ensure comfort and convenience. Here's a comprehensive guide to what to pack for a summer getaway:

Summer Clothing:

1. Lightweight and breathable clothing such as cotton shirts, shorts, dresses, and skirts.
2. Swimsuits and cover-ups for beach or poolside lounging.
3. For cooler evenings or indoor spaces with air conditioning, light jackets or sweaters are recommended.
4. Comfortable walking shoes or sandals are suitable for exploring and sightseeing.
5. A hat or cap and sunglasses to protect against sun exposure.
6. Undergarments and socks for daily wear.

Accessories:

1. Travel-sized umbrella or lightweight rain jacket for unexpected showers.
2. Backpack or tote bag for carrying essentials during day trips.
3. Travel-sized toiletries include sunscreen, insect repellent, shampoo, conditioner, and body wash.
4. Personal hygiene items like toothbrushes, toothpaste, and deodorant.
5. Medications and a first-aid kit for any emergencies.
6. Portable charger or power bank for keeping electronic devices charged on the go.
7. If you're traveling to a country with different electrical outlets, bring a travel adapter.
8. For navigating new destinations, use a travel guidebook or map.

Tech Gear:

1. Smartphone and/or camera for capturing memories.
2. Headphones or earbuds for entertainment during travel.
3. Portable speakers for outdoor music enjoyment.
4. Waterproof phone case or pouch.
5. E-reader or tablet for reading books or magazines on the beach or by the pool.

Miscellaneous:

• Reusable water bottles to stay hydrated throughout the day.
• Snacks like granola bars, nuts, or dried fruits provide quick energy boosts.
• A travel journal or notebook for jotting down experiences and memories.
• Lightweight beach towel or sarong for sunbathing or picnics.
• Foldable or reusable shopping bag for carrying souvenirs or groceries.
• Ziplock bags or packing cubes are useful for organizing and separating belongings in luggage.

Conclusion

Whether you're craving the tranquility of a tropical beach or the adventure of exploring a vibrant city, these top domestic and international destinations offer something for every traveler seeking the perfect summer getaway. Pack your bags, embrace the sunshine, and embark on a memorable summer journey.