Summer getaways

Summers in Delhi are harsh. So harsh that one is left panting! While this year, unseasonal rainfall has brought in a break from the scorching sun, the heat is lying just on the periphery.

As per the weather forecast, the blistering heat is set to return to Delhi next week. With temperatures soaring up to 45º C easily, even the best of ACs, the coolest of drinks and the best of programmes can become dampening. Therefore, weekends can be the time to take a short break from the capital’s heatwave.

Here are a couple of places where Delhiites are known to visit every summer:

1. Rishikesh

A little over five hours drive, Rishikesh is holiday destination with great weather and is undoubtedly one of the top places to visit in summers near Delhi. Located in the foothills of the Himalayas along the convergence of Ganga and Chandrabhaga River, Rishikesh is a small town in the Dehradun district, located close to Haridwar in Uttarakhand. It is known for its adventure activities, ancient temples, popular cafes. It is around 223 km from Delhi.

2. Lansdowne

Perched amidst the Garhwal Hills of Uttarakhand, 243 km from Delhi, Lansdowne is a quaint little hill town that not many tourists know of. Off the beaten tourist trail, Lansdowne is a pristine town, miles away from the hustle and bustle of the city. This hill station is neither commercialised nor heavily urbanised, making it the perfect getaway for anyone looking to take a break amidst peace and solitude.

3. Naukuchiatal

It is a nine cornered lake, a small picturesque village. It is a destination for those who seek quietude and tranquility beneath the shade of pure nature. As the name of the place suggests, this place is mainly known for its nine cornered lake which measures up to 1 km in length and 40 m deep.

4. Kufri

Kufri is a quaint little hill town 20km away from Shimla,Himachal Pradesh. Earlier known to be the summer retreat for the British in 1819, Kufri still harbors its past through the colonial buildings and architecture around.

With its pleasant summer weather and winter snowfall, Kufri is flocked by tourists almost at all times.

5. Shimla

Probably the most popular hill station in northern India, Shimla is the capital city of Himachal Pradesh. Famous for its Mall road, the Ridge, toy train and colonial architecture, it is popular among couples and families alike.