As the pre-summer season approaches, it’s the perfect time to plan a weekend getaway in India. The pleasant weather during this period makes it ideal for exploring various destinations across the country. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat in the hills or a cultural experience in historic cities, India offers a plethora of options to suit every traveler’s preference.
Planning a short trip before the summer heat sets in allows you to enjoy these destinations at their best. From the scenic landscapes of hill stations to the rich heritage of royal cities, there’s something for everyone. Embarking on a pre-summer weekend getaway not only provides a refreshing break but also helps in rejuvenating your mind and body.
To assist you in choosing the perfect destination, we’ve curated a list of the top 12 pre-summer weekend getaways in India. Each of these places offers unique experiences and is ideal for a short retreat during this season.
Table of Contents
Here are the Top 12 Pre-Summer Weekend Getaways in India:
- Manali, Himachal Pradesh
- Udaipur, Rajasthan
- Goa
- Nainital, Uttarakhand
- Munnar, Kerala
- Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra
- Darjeeling, West Bengal
- Ooty, Tamil Nadu
- Kaziranga National Park, Assam
- Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir
- Shillong, Meghalaya
- Rann of Kutch, Gujarat
Pre-Summer Weekend Getaways in India
| Destination | State | Best Places to Visit | Best Time to Visit | Average Cost for 2 People (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manali | Himachal Pradesh | Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, Hadimba Temple | March to June | 15,000 – 20,000 |
| Udaipur | Rajasthan | City Palace, Lake Pichola, Jag Mandir | February to March | 20,000 – 25,000 |
| Goa | Goa | Baga Beach, Fort Aguada, Dudhsagar Falls | November to March | 25,000 – 30,000 |
| Nainital | Uttarakhand | Naini Lake, Snow View Point, Naina Devi Temple | March to June | 15,000 – 20,000 |
| Munnar | Kerala | Tea Gardens, Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam | March to May | 20,000 – 25,000 |
| Mahabaleshwar | Maharashtra | Pratapgad Fort, Venna Lake, Mapro Garden | March to June | 15,000 – 20,000 |
| Darjeeling | West Bengal | Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Darjeeling Himalayan Railway | March to May | 20,000 – 25,000 |
| Ooty | Tamil Nadu | Ooty Lake, Botanical Gardens, Doddabetta Peak | March to June | 20,000 – 25,000 |
| Kaziranga National Park | Assam | Jeep Safari, Elephant Safari, Kaziranga Orchid Park | November to April | 25,000 – 30,000 |
| Gulmarg | Jammu & Kashmir | Gulmarg Gondola, Apharwat Peak, Biosphere Reserve | March to June | 20,000 – 25,000 |
| Shillong | Meghalaya | Umiam Lake, Elephant Falls, Shillong Peak | March to June | 20,000 – 25,000 |
| Rann of Kutch | Gujarat | White Rann, Kala Dungar, Kutch Museum | November to March | 20,000 – 30,000 |
1. Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Manali is a go-to destination for travelers seeking a mix of adventure and scenic beauty. The pleasant weather in March and April makes it perfect for exploring Solang Valley, Hadimba Temple, and Rohtang Pass. Whether you’re trekking, paragliding, or simply soaking in the views, Manali has something for everyone. The town is also famous for its cafes and markets, adding a lively touch to your trip. If you’re looking for a quick escape to the mountains before summer, Manali is an excellent choice.
Best Places to Visit
- Solang Valley
- Rohtang Pass
- Hadimba Temple
Best Time to Visit
March to June
Average Cost for 2 People (INR)
15,000 – 20,000
2. Udaipur, Rajasthan
Udaipur, known as the “City of Lakes,” is all about grand palaces, stunning lakes, and vibrant markets. The pre-summer months offer comfortable weather, allowing you to enjoy boat rides on Lake Pichola, explore the magnificent City Palace, and take in the royal heritage. The narrow streets of Udaipur are filled with colorful handicrafts and delicious Rajasthani cuisine. If you love history, culture, and scenic views, Udaipur is a perfect weekend getaway.
Best Places to Visit
- City Palace
- Lake Pichola
- Jag Mandir
Best Time to Visit:
February to March
Average Cost for 2 People (INR)
20,000 – 25,000
Also Read: 10 Tourist Attractions in Rajasthan you Must Visit
3. Goa
Goa is the ultimate beach destination, and visiting before peak summer lets you enjoy its charm without the extreme heat. Spend your days at Baga Beach, explore historic forts like Aguada, or take a trip to Dudhsagar Falls. Goa’s nightlife, beach shacks, and water sports make it an exciting retreat. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Goa never disappoints.
Best Places to Visit:
- Baga Beach
- Fort Aguada
- Dudhsagar Falls
Best Time to Visit:
November to March
Average Cost for 2 People (INR)
25,000 – 30,000
4. Nainital, Uttarakhand
Nainital is one of the most beautiful hill stations in North India, perfect for a refreshing weekend trip. The cool climate during the pre-summer months makes it ideal for boating on Naini Lake, visiting Snow View Point, and exploring the famous Naina Devi Temple. The town’s colonial charm and surrounding hills make it a great escape from city life. Strolling along Mall Road and trying local delicacies is a must-do experience here.
Best Places to Visit
- Naini Lake
- Snow View Point
- Naina Devi Temple
Best Time to Visit
March to June
Average Cost for 2 People (INR)
15,000 – 20,000
5. Munnar, Kerala
Munnar is a paradise for nature lovers, with its rolling tea gardens, misty hills, and pleasant weather. The pre-summer months are perfect for visiting the Eravikulam National Park, exploring the famous tea estates, and enjoying a boat ride at Mattupetty Dam. The fresh air, scenic landscapes, and peaceful ambiance make Munnar a great destination for relaxation. If you’re looking for a green escape, Munnar is an excellent choice.
Best Places to Visit
- Tea Gardens
- Eravikulam National Park
- Mattupetty Dam
Best Time to Visit
March to May
Average Cost for 2 People (INR)
20,000 – 25,000
Also Read: Top 12 Unexplored Places to Visit in India
6. Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra
Mahabaleshwar is an ideal weekend getaway from Mumbai and Pune, offering beautiful viewpoints, waterfalls, and strawberry farms. March to June is a great time to enjoy scenic spots like Arthur’s Seat and Venna Lake before the monsoon arrives. The town is also known for its delicious strawberries and fresh air. Whether you prefer a relaxing vacation or a bit of adventure, Mahabaleshwar has plenty to offer.
Best Places to Visit
- Pratapgad Fort
- Venna Lake
- Mapro Garden
Best Time to Visit
March to June
Average Cost for 2 People (INR)
15,000 – 20,000
7. Darjeeling, West Bengal
Darjeeling is a charming hill station known for its colonial heritage, scenic landscapes, and world-famous tea gardens. The weather in March and April is perfect for exploring Tiger Hill for a breathtaking sunrise, riding the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, and strolling through vibrant local markets. The fresh mountain air and peaceful surroundings make it an excellent pre-summer retreat. If you love tea, don’t forget to visit one of the many tea estates.
Best Places to Visit
- Tiger Hill
- Batasia Loop
- Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
Best Time to Visit
March to May
Average Cost for 2 People (INR)
20,000 – 25,000
8. Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Ooty is a classic hill station with beautiful botanical gardens, serene lakes, and rolling hills. The pleasant weather from March to June makes it ideal for sightseeing, whether you’re boating on Ooty Lake, visiting the Doddabetta Peak, or exploring the famous Nilgiri Mountain Railway. The town is a perfect mix of nature and old-world charm, making it a great escape before summer sets in.
Best Places to Visit
- Ooty Lake
- Botanical Gardens
- Doddabetta Peak
Best Time to Visit
March to June
Average Cost for 2 People (INR)
20,000 – 25,000
Also Read: 12 Best Places to Visit in North India This Summer
9. Kaziranga National Park, Assam
Kaziranga is a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts, home to the famous one-horned rhinoceros. The pre-summer months offer the best chance to spot rhinos, tigers, and elephants during jeep or elephant safaris. The park is also rich in birdlife, making it a paradise for photographers and nature lovers. Visiting before the monsoon ensures comfortable weather for exploring this incredible UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Best Places to Visit
- Jeep Safari
- Elephant Safari
- Kaziranga Orchid and Biodiversity Parkc
Best Time to Visit
November to April
Average Cost for 2 People (INR)
25,000 – 30,000
10. Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir
Gulmarg is a dream destination for adventure lovers, offering snow activities in March and lush greenery as the season transitions. Whether you want to ride the famous Gulmarg Gondola, go skiing at Apharwat Peak, or simply enjoy the breathtaking landscapes, this destination promises a magical experience. The crisp mountain air and stunning scenery make it a great place to unwind before summer.
Best Places to Visit
- Gulmarg Gondola
- Apharwat Peak
- Biosphere Reserve
Best Time to Visit
March to June
Average Cost for 2 People (INR)
20,000 – 25,000
11. Shillong, Meghalaya
Shillong, often called the “Scotland of the East,” is a vibrant hill station known for its cool climate, stunning waterfalls, and lively culture. March to June is an excellent time to visit spots like Umiam Lake, Shillong Peak, and Elephant Falls. The city’s cafes and music scene add a modern charm to its natural beauty. If you’re looking for a mix of relaxation and adventure, Shillong is a fantastic pick.
Best Places to Visit
- Umiam Lake
- Elephant Falls
- Shillong Peak
Best Time to Visit
March to June
Average Cost for 2 People (INR)
20,000 – 25,000
12. Rann of Kutch, Gujarat
The Rann of Kutch is a unique destination known for its vast salt desert and cultural heritage. Visiting in March allows you to catch the final days of the Rann Utsav, a festival showcasing local music, dance, and crafts. The white desert under a moonlit sky is an unforgettable sight. If you love offbeat destinations, the Rann of Kutch offers a one-of-a-kind experience.
Best Places to Visit
- White Rann
- Kala Dungar
- Kutch Museum
Best Time to Visit
November to March
Average Cost for 2 People (INR)
20,000 – 30,000
Conclusion
A quick getaway before the summer heat kicks in can be the perfect way to relax, explore, and recharge. Whether you prefer the mountains of Manali and Nainital, the beaches of Goa, or the cultural charm of Udaipur and Rann of Kutch, there’s a destination for every kind of traveler. This pre-summer window is also great for exploring wildlife in Kaziranga, enjoying tea plantations in Munnar, or soaking in the colonial charm of Darjeeling.
If you’re looking for the best deals and hassle-free travel, TripFactory has customized packages to make your weekend escape seamless and enjoyable. Plan your trip now and make the most of the season before the summer rush begins a seamless travel experience. Book now and start your pre-summer adventure with ease!
Also Read: 10 Famous Festivals of Northeast India
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best destinations for a pre-summer weekend getaway in India?
Some of the best places for a weekend trip before summer are Manali, Udaipur, Goa, Nainital, Munnar, Mahabaleshwar, Darjeeling, Ooty, Kaziranga National Park, Gulmarg, Shillong, and Rann of Kutch. These destinations offer pleasant weather and great sightseeing opportunities.
What is the best time for a pre-summer weekend getaway?
The ideal time for a pre-summer getaway is from February to early April, when the weather is comfortable, and tourist places are less crowded compared to peak summer months.
Which destinations are best for adventure lovers?
If you love adventure, Manali (paragliding, trekking), Gulmarg (skiing, snow activities), Kaziranga National Park (wildlife safaris), and Rann of Kutch (desert experiences) are excellent choices.
What are the best budget-friendly weekend getaways in India?
Destinations like Nainital, Mahabaleshwar, Ooty, and Shillong offer affordable accommodations and travel options, making them ideal for budget travelers.
Which destinations are best for couples looking for a romantic weekend?
For a romantic escape, Udaipur, Munnar, Goa, and Darjeeling offer stunning landscapes, cozy stays, and peaceful surroundings, perfect for couples.
What are the must-visit wildlife destinations for a pre-summer trip?
If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, Kaziranga National Park (Assam) is a must-visit to see one-horned rhinos, while Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve (Jammu & Kashmir) offers a chance to see rare species in their natural habitat.
What are the best travel packages for pre-summer weekend getaways?
For the best travel deals and customized packages, check out TripFactory. They offer tailored itineraries, affordable prices, and hassle-free bookings to make your trip smooth and enjoyable.