Not Shimla, Not Manali: 7 Lesser-Known Summer Retreats You Will Love

7 Offbeat Summer Destinations in India (2025) Better Than Shimla or Manali

When it comes to summer getaways in India, names like Shimla and Manali often top the list. But with growing tourist crowds, rising costs, and over-commercialisation, these once-tranquil retreats can feel more exhausting than relaxing. Thankfully, India is home to many lesser-known hill stations and offbeat summer retreats that offer the same, if not better, cool weather, scenic beauty, and peace, without the hustle and bustle.

Whether you are planning a quiet family vacation, a solo escape into the mountains, or simply want to explore somewhere new, these 7 hidden gems are perfect for a refreshing summer break in May or June 2025. So pack light, think offbeat, and discover your next favourite hill town.

1. Chopta, Uttarakhand – The Mini Switzerland of India

Nestled at an altitude of around 2,600 metres, Chopta is a haven for nature lovers and trekkers. Often referred to as the 'Mini Switzerland of India', it remains refreshingly untouched by mass tourism. The Tungnath Temple — the world’s highest Shiva shrine — and the Chandrashila trek offer breathtaking Himalayan views. During summer, Chopta is alive with blooming rhododendrons and lush alpine meadows. Accommodation options include homestays and eco-resorts, making it a sustainable choice for conscious travellers.

2. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh – Serenity at 10,000 Feet

Perched at 10,000 feet, Tawang combines natural beauty with rich Buddhist heritage. Home to the majestic Tawang Monastery — the largest in India — it exudes a peaceful aura. In May and June, the weather remains crisp and pleasant, offering a welcome break from the heat of the plains. Explore Sela Pass, shimmering lakes like Madhuri Lake, and quiet villages where time seems to stand still. Tawang is perfect for cultural travellers seeking tranquility with a side of snow peaks.

3. Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh – Where Music Meets Misty Hills

Ziro is not just about its famous music festival. Summer brings out its quieter, more introspective side. This UNESCO Tentative Site boasts lush rice fields, pine forests, and wooden tribal huts of the Apatani people — known for their sustainable lifestyle and unique traditions. It’s a photographer’s paradise and an ethnographer’s dream. With little digital noise and lots of natural serenity, Ziro is ideal for long walks, soulful reflections, and learning about indigenous cultures.

4. Chikmagalur, Karnataka – Coffee-Scented Coolcation

If North India’s hill stations feel overdone, Chikmagalur offers a Southern escape filled with fragrant coffee estates, misty mountains, and quiet luxury. Located in the Western Ghats, this hill town is a visual treat with winding trails, forested hills, and gushing waterfalls. Highlights include Mullayanagiri Peak (the highest in Karnataka), Hebbe Falls, and lush coffee plantations you can walk through. Plus, the town’s boutique resorts and homestays cater to both budget and high-end travellers.

5. Kalpa, Himachal Pradesh – Apple Orchards and Silence

Far from the hustle of Manali, Kalpa lies in Kinnaur district and remains a hidden gem even in peak tourist season. The views here are some of the best in Himachal — imagine the majestic Kinnaur Kailash range framed by apple orchards. Summer is the best time to see this village in full bloom. The local monasteries and temples add a spiritual touch, while wooden houses and terraced fields offer a postcard-perfect setting. Kalpa is the destination for those who want to do nothing but breathe, walk, and watch the clouds roll by.

6. Mawlynnong, Meghalaya – Asia’s Cleanest Village

Tucked in the East Khasi Hills, Mawlynnong is proof that community-driven tourism can thrive. Awarded the title of Asia’s cleanest village, its spotless paths, bamboo dustbins, and eco-conscious residents set a glowing example. In summer, the weather remains cool and misty — ideal for nature walks and birdwatching. Don’t miss the Living Root Bridge nearby in Riwai and the panoramic Sky View platform made entirely of bamboo. For an immersive stay, opt for a local homestay and eat traditional Khasi food by a wood fire.

7. Yercaud, Tamil Nadu – The Quiet Cousin of Ooty

Often overshadowed by Ooty and Kodaikanal, Yercaud offers similar scenic beauty minus the tourist crowd. Located in the Shevaroy Hills, this quaint hill town charms visitors with its lake, flower gardens, and dense forests. The 32-km Loop Road drive offers breathtaking views of plantations and valleys. Yercaud is also budget-friendly, with mid-range resorts, hiking trails, and peaceful vibes that suit couples, retirees, and solo wanderers alike. Summer temperatures here stay below 30°C, making it one of South India’s coolest places in May and June.