When summer’s intense heat becomes unbearable, there’s no better solution than to escape to India’s cool and beautiful hill stations. If you want to feel a connection with nature, seek adventure, or want relaxation, these destinations offer more than just respite from the heated sun. Below, I provided a curated list of the best hill stations in India, where you can cool off and enjoy some much-needed respite: S.No. Hill Station State Best Time to Visit 1 Manali Himachal Pradesh May to July 2 Darjeeling West Bengal April to June 3 Ooty Tamil Nadu March to June 4 Munnar Kerala April to June 5 Shimla Himachal Pradesh May to June 6 Nainital Uttarakhand March to June 7 Coorg (Kodagu) Karnataka March to May 8 Shillong Meghalaya April to June 9 Mount Abu Rajasthan March to June 10 Tawang Arunachal Pradesh March to October 1. Manali, Himachal Pradesh Manali, a popular hill station in Himachal Pradesh, is the ultimate summer getaway, packed with snow-capped peaks, adventure sports, and cozy mountain cafés. Known for its breathtaking views of the Himalayas and serene landscapes, Manali is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Whether you’re looking for a romantic hill station or an adventure-packed destination, Manali has it all. Why Visit: Manali offers snow-dusted peaks, adventure sports, and romantic vibes. Whether you’re into skiing in winter or trekking during the summer months, it’s the best hill station to visit in summer. Enjoy the charming cafes in Old Manali for a relaxed afternoon amidst the beautiful mountain backdrop. Things to Do: Rohtang Pass (for snow sports and adventure enthusiasts) Solang Valley (try paragliding, skiing, and zorbing) River rafting in Beas River Café-hopping in Old Manali, soaking in mountain views Best Time: May to July is the best time to visit, when the weather is perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Travel Tip: Book your Rohtang Pass permits in advance, as they are limited and fill up quickly. Also Read: Manali Travel Blog: Where to Go, Mall Road Tips & More 2. Darjeeling, West Bengal Known as the “Queen of the Hills,” Darjeeling in West Bengal is famous for its lush tea gardens, colonial charm, and heart-taking views of the Kanchenjunga range. It’s one of the best hill stations in India for a peaceful retreat or an immersive cultural experience. Why Visit: Darjeeling is a blend of colonial history, stunning views, and rich tea culture. This picturesque hill station in West Bengal offers not just breathtaking landscapes but a chance to experience the rich heritage of tea plantations. Things to Do: You can ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (UNESCO World Heritage site) Must visit Tiger Hill for a memorable sunrise view of the Himalayas Explore and taste local, freshly brewed Darjeeling tea from tea estates Walk on the Chowrasta Mall and shop for local handicrafts Best Time: April to June is the best time to visit for pleasant weather and clear skies. Travel Tip: Do not miss the sunrise at Tiger Hill for a panoramic view of the Himalayas. Also Read: Travel To Darjeeling: Travel Guide 3. Ooty, Tamil Nadu Ooty, located in the Nilgiri Hills, is one of the best hill stations in South India. Known for its lush gardens and cool weather, Ooty offers a beautiful escape from the heat of the plains. Also called the “Queen of the Nilgiris,” it’s the best place for nature lovers and honeymooners. Why Visit: Ooty is known for its lush green gardens, cool climate, and beautiful views. It is one of the best hill stations in India for honeymooners, offering a romantic getaway amidst beautiful lakes and hills. Things to Do: Ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway (UNESCO World Heritage site) Explore Ooty Lake and enjoy boating Visit the Botanical Gardens and Rose Garden Explore the tea plantations and discover the history of Ooty’s tea making Best Time: March to June is the ideal time to visit for pleasant weather and cool breezes. Travel Tip: Don’t miss out on the delicious homemade chocolates sold at the local markets! Also Read: Ooty Travel Blog: Our Incredible 3-day Trip 4. Munnar, Kerala Munnar, located in the Western Ghats of Kerala, is a paradise of tea plantations, misty hills, and heart-taking views. One of the best hill stations in India, it’s perfect for adventure seekers who want to explore lush greenery, wildlife, and tranquil landscapes. Why Visit: Munnar offers rolling tea plantations, mist-covered hills, and cool weather, making it the perfect retreat for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. It is also known as one of the best hill stations in South India. Things to Do: Visit the Tea Museum and learn about the region’s tea history Explore Eravikulam National Park and spot the Nilgiri Tahr Enjoy boating at Mattupetty Dam Hike to Anamudi Peak, the highest point in South India Best Time: April to June is the best time to visit, when the weather is ideal for sightseeing. Travel Tip: Try to visit early in the morning to experience the mist and fresh air in its full glory. 5. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh, is one of the most popular hill stations in India. Famous for its colonial architecture, pleasant weather, and scenic views of the Himalayas, Shimla is perfect for families, honeymooners, and those seeking a peaceful retreat in the hills. Why Visit: Shimla is known for its colonial charm, beautiful Mall Road, and stunning views of the Himalayas. It’s a perfect destination for both leisure and adventure, making it one of the best hill stations in India for families. Things to Do: Take the toy train from Kalka to Shimla Explore Mall Road for shopping and local food Visit Jakhoo Temple and enjoy a scenic hike Visit Kufri for adventure activities like skiing and tobogganing Best Time: May to June is the best time to visit for pleasant weather and sightseeing. Travel Tip: Explore Mall Road for local handicrafts and street food, which are some of Shimla’s top attractions.
Category: Blogs
10 Delhi Tourist Places You Must Visit During Holidays!
Delhi, the capital city of India, is a blend of history, culture, religiosity, food, and architecture. With strong Mughal-era monuments and bustling local markets, there is something in the city for each and every visitor. Whether you are a history enthusiast, shopaholic, or religious visitor, this list of Delhi tourist places will guide you through the best the city has to offer. List of 10 Famous Places to Visit in Delhi (2025) 1 – Red Fort 2 – India Gate 3 – Qutub Minar 4 – Chhatarpur Temple 5 – ISKCON Temple 6 – National Rail Museum 7 – Bangla Sahib Gurudwara 8 – Agrasen Ki Baoli 9 – Sarojini Nagar Market 10 – Pragati Maidan Red Fort – India’s Pride Red Fort is a most popular Delhi tourist places, constructed with exquisite red sandstone and featuring detailed Mughal architecture. You can find museums, traditional crafts, imitation jewelry, and the thronged Meena Bazaar within. The breathtaking carvings and massive courtyards will leave you breathless. Do not forget to catch the light and sound show at dusk – it is magic! Built by: Emperor Shah Jahan Entry Fee: Free for kids under 15 years; ₹10 for Indians; ₹250 for tourists Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed on Mondays) Closest Metro Station: Chandni Chowk Distance from Airport: 20 km Places of Interest nearby: Digambar Jain Temple, Sis Ganj Gurudwara, Paranthe Wali Gali Pro Tip: Get there early in peak season to avoid queuing. India Gate – Tribute to the Brave India Gate is a war memorial for Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives in World War I. Fire-burning Amar Jawan Jyoti is available here day and night. Surrounded by sufficient lawns and patriotic surroundings, this is one of the most famous places to visit in Delhi. Built by: Edwin Lutyens Entry Fee: Free Timings: 24/7 Nearest Metro: Central Secretariat Distance from Airport: 14 km Attractions nearby: National Gallery of Modern Art Best Time to Visit: October to March Tip: This is Perfect for family picnics – take your food along and enjoy the scenery. Qutub Minar – A Towering Heritage A World Heritage Site, the Qutub Minar is one of the world’s tallest brick minarets. The monument was built by Qutb-ud-din Aibak, showcasing Indo-Islamic architecture. Do not miss the rust-resistant Iron Pillar in the vicinity! Built by: Qutb-ud-din Aibak Entry Fee: Free for children under 15 years; ₹10 for Indians; ₹250 for foreigners Timings: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays) Nearest Metro: Qutub Minar Distance from Airport: 13.8 km (36 mins) Nearby Spot: Chhatarpur Temple Travel Tip: Even though the destruction that happened in the past, it still does make it one of the most popular Delhi tourist spots. Chhatarpur Temple – A Peaceful Escape Situated in South Delhi, the Chhatarpur Temple is a serene place of worship covering 70 acres of land. This Goddess Katyayani temple contains exquisite idols of numerous gods. It’s a spiritual haven of peace. Built by: Baba Sant Nagpal Hours of operation: 4:00 AM – 11:00 PM Nearest Metro: Chhatarpur Distance from Airport: 12.2 km (33 mins) Tip: Appreciate the intricate design and sacred ambiance. Also Read: 36 Famous Festivals of India: National and Religious Festivals in India 2025 ISKCON Temple – Spiritual and Cultural Complex Committed to Radha and Lord Krishna, the ISKCON Temple in Delhi is not only a religious site but also has a restaurant, museum, and event facilities. The temple appears stunning in the evening, particularly during Janmashtami. Built by: International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) Opening hours: 4:30 AM – 8:30 PM Closest metro station: Nehru Place (Violet Line) Tip: Attend evening aarti for a religious experience of bhajans and lights. National Rail Museum – Trainspotter’s Paradise One of the most interesting family and child-friendly Delhi tourist places, the National Rail Museum features old trains such as toy trains, diesel, and steam locomotives. Some trains even offer short joyrides! Entry Fee: ₹20 Timings: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM (Closed on Mondays and public holidays) Nearest Metro: Dhaulakuan Distance from Airport: 8.1 km (21 mins) Must-Do: Take pictures and explore the royal carriages and rare engines. Bangla Sahib Gurudwara – Inner Peace in the City A tranquil oasis amidst the mayhem of Delhi, the Bangla Sahib Gurudwara is renowned for its sacred sarovar (pond), langar (community kitchen), and white marble complex. It also houses a museum, hospital, and library. Built by: General Sardar Bhagel Singh Entry Fee: Free Timings: Open 24/7 Nearest Metro: Rajiv Chowk Distance from Airport: 13 km (28 mins) Close by: Rakab Ganj Gurudwara, Birla Mandir Tip: Go post-sunset to escape scorching marble floors during summer. Agrasen Ki Baoli – A Stepwell with Tales Made popular by Bollywood films such as PK, Agrasen Ki Baoli is a centuries-old stepwell that’s famous for its unusual architecture and mystical aura. It’s also said to be haunted, making it a hotspot for adventure-seekers! Built by: King Agrasen Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM Nearest Metro: Barakhamba Road or Rajiv Chowk Distance from Airport: 16.5 km (35 mins) Tip: Perfect for aesthetic photography and offbeat travel stories. Sarojini Nagar Market – Shop Till You Drop Haggling is the order of the day if you are a haggler. Sarojini Nagar Market is a shopper’s delight and haggler’s heaven. You will find everything trendy and export surplus branded products at affordable prices. Timings: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Closed on Mondays) Nearest Metro: INA Metro Station Distance from Airport: 9.9 km (27 mins) Tip: Bargaining is key! Shop smart and explore the street food around. Pragati Maidan – Delhi’s Mega Exhibition Center Pragati Maidan is Delhi’s largest exhibition and convention center, spread over 150 acres. It hosts national and international trade fairs, expos, and cultural events. The complex includes lush lawns, walkways, and outlet spaces. Architect: Raj Rewal Entry Fee: Event-based (From ₹9914 for packages) Timings: According to event schedule Nearest Metro: Pragati Maidan Distance from Airport: 15.9 km (33 mins) Tip:
36 Famous Festivals of India: National and Religious Festivals in India 2025
India is a rich tapestry of hues, cultures, and age-old festivals. With almost every day on the calendar, there is a festival that converts roads into processions of joy, houses into palaces of light, and hearts into cups of collective bliss. From the snow-clad peaks of Himachal to Kerala’s beaches where the sun rises high, the beat of celebration never stops — every corner of the country has its own method of bringing people together in the guise of stories, rituals, and celebration. What is so captivating about these festivals is the sheer diversity they represent. They transcend state boundaries, religions, and languages to create a living mosaic of unity in diversity. Wild or small, large or sorrowful, each fest is throbbing with meaning — and always with a feeling of belonging. So if you’re prepared to dive into the colors, tastes, rhythms, and sacred traditions of Indian existence, here’s a warmly selected guide to 36 of India’s most celebrated festivals of India, along with dates and highlight moments. Because in India, each festival is not only for a day — it’s a tale, a memory, a shared pulse. List of 36 Major Festivals in India 2025 (With Dates) Here’s a quick overview of the biggest religious and national festivals in India for 2025: Month Festival Date Day January Makar Sankranti / Pongal 14 Jan Wednesday February Vasant Panchami 2 Feb Sunday February Thaipusam 11 Feb Tuesday February Maha Shivaratri 26 Feb Wednesday March Holika Dahan 13 Mar Thursday March Holi 14 Mar Friday March Hindi New Year 29 Mar Saturday March Ugadi / Gudi Padwa / Telugu New Year 30 Mar Sunday April Ram Navami 6 Apr Sunday April Hanuman Jayanti 12 Apr Saturday April Baisakhi / Vishu 14 Apr Monday April Bengali New Year / Bihu / Tamil New Year 14 Apr Monday May Akshaya Tritiya 30 May Friday May Buddha Purnima 11 May Sunday June Jagannath Rath Yatra 27 June Friday July Guru Purnima 10 July Thursday August Raksha Bandhan 9 Aug Saturday August Janmashtami 16 Aug Saturday August Ganesh Chaturthi 26 Aug Tuesday September Onam 5 Sept Friday September Durga Ashtami 30 Sept Tuesday October Dussehra 2 Oct Thursday October Diwali 20 Oct Monday October Govardhan Puja 22 Oct Wednesday October Chhath Puja 27 Oct Monday November Gurpurab 5 Nov Wednesday December Christmas 25 Dec Thursday Most Celebrated Festivals of India (You Shouldn’t Miss) Diwali – The Festival of Lights Date: 20th October 2025 (Monday) Where: Celebrated across India Highlights: Diyas, fireworks, sweets, family gatherings No other festival captures the spirit of India like Diwali. Streets glow with oil lamps, homes are cleaned and decorated, and families come together for puja and sweets. It celebrates the return of Lord Rama after 14 years in exile. If you’re in India during Diwali, you’re in for a sparkling treat! Holi – The Festival of Colours Date: 14th March 2025 (Friday) Where: Northern India is a hotspot – especially Vrindavan & Mathura Highlights: Playing with colors, bhang, dancing, Holika bonfire This iconic celebration marks the triumph of good over evil and welcomes spring with open arms and powdered hues. It’s one of the most internationally recognized festivals in India and is truly an experience for all your senses. Dussehra – The Victory of Good Over Evil Date: 2nd October 2025 (Thursday) Where: All across India, especially Mysore & Kullu Highlights: Ram Lila, Ravan Dahan, cultural processions Dussehra is all about the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana. Watch epic stage plays, fireworks, and vibrant parades celebrating righteousness and courage. Navratri – Nine Nights of Devotion and Dance Date: 30 March to 7 April 2025 Where: Best enjoyed in Gujarat, Mumbai, and Delhi Highlights: Garba nights, dandiya, fasting, traditional wear Navratri brings nine nights of nonstop dance and devotion. Fasting, spiritual reflection, and electric Garba beats fill the air. It’s one of those festivals of India where tradition and party spirit go hand-in-hand! Durga Puja – The Spirit of Bengal Date: 28 September – 2 October 2025 Where: Kolkata is the soul of this festival Highlights: Pandal hopping, Durga idol immersion, feasts For Bengalis, Durga Puja is bigger than life. Art meets spirituality with larger-than-life idols, majestic decorations, and traditional dances that make it one of the grandest festivals in India. Janmashtami – Celebrating Krishna’s Birth Date: 16 August 2025 (Saturday) Where: Mathura and Vrindavan Highlights: Krishna jhankis, Dahi Handi, temple decorations Temples come alive with midnight prayers, devotional songs, and energetic “Dahi Handi” competitions. Children dress as little Krishnas and Radhas—it’s both adorable and deeply spiritual. Ganesh Chaturthi – Lord Ganesha’s Birthday Date: 26 August 2025 Where: Mumbai and Maharashtra lead the celebration Highlights: Huge Ganesha idols, Visarjan processions, music, and dance Eleven days of pure joy, music, and devotion! Lord Ganesha is welcomed into homes and streets, worshipped daily, and then farewelled with massive processions to the sea. Gurpurab – The Sikh Festival of Light and Wisdom Date: 5 November 2025 (Wednesday) Where: Punjab, Delhi, and Sikh communities globally Highlights: Langar, Nagar Kirtan, decorated Gurudwaras Marking the birthdays of Sikh Gurus, Gurpurab is a spiritual experience. From soulful hymns to community kitchens serving free meals to all, it’s a day filled with peace and compassion. Also Read: Top 5 must visit Pilgrimage places in India Raksha Bandhan – A Thread That Binds Love Date in 2025: 9th August (Saturday Where: Widely celebrated in North, Central & West India Why It Matters: Celebrates the bond of love and trust between brothers and sisters. Don’t Miss: The colorful rakhis, bustling markets, and of course, delicious sweets! What To Do: Celebrate with your siblings and keep the spirit of care and support alive. Raksha Bandhan is one of the most cherished festivals in India, especially among siblings. It’s a beautiful ritual where sisters tie a sacred thread (rakhi) on their brothers’ wrists, praying for their well-being. In return, brothers vow to protect their sisters and shower them with gifts. Eid-Ul-Fitr – A Sweet Ending