10 Smart Travel Hacks For Vacationing During Peak Summer In India
Wish to travel through India during the scorching summer months? Bold move. With mercury often soaring past 45 degrees Celsius in places like Rajasthan and Delhi, peak summer travel here isn't for the faint-hearted — but it can be absolutely worth it if you plan smart and stay prepared. From mango season in the lush south to the breezy Himalayan trails up north, there's a lot to love, stroll, sip, and snack your way through. Here are 10 clever, practical hacks that will help you stay cool, safe, energised, and sane while travelling through India in the relentless summer heat.
Here Are 10 Useful Tips To Travel During Peak Indian Summer:
1. Go Hill Or Go Home
If your travel dates are locked for May or June, your best bet is to head upwards. Think Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, or parts of the North-East. Shimla, Manali, Darjeeling, and Gangtok all offer a cool reprieve from the plains. Bonus: Fewer crowds mid-week and better chances of finding deals on homestays.
2. Time Your Day Like A Local
Noon to 3pm is prime oven-time. Locals often take a break or nap (yes, even in cities). Beat the heat by waking early for sightseeing and keeping afternoons reserved for shaded cafes, indoor museums or simply chilling in your hotel with a fan on full blast.
3. Stay Hydrated, But Smartly
Water is life, yes. But don't rely on just bottled mineral water (which can sometimes be fake or overpriced in touristy spots). Buy a reusable water bottle with an in-built filter like LifeStraw or carry electrolyte sachets to avoid dehydration. Coconut water, available almost everywhere, is also a great (and tasty) hydration hack.
4. Light Cotton Is Your Best Friend
Stick to loose-fitting, breathable cotton or linen clothes. Avoid dark colours which absorb heat, and say no to anything synthetic. Pack a scarf or dupatta — it's useful for shielding your neck, face, or head from direct sun and dust, especially in drier states like Rajasthan.
5. Download The Right Apps
From Ola and Uber for air-conditioned rides to Zomato for cool cafe suggestions, having a few handy apps makes travel easier. Also consider installing a good weather and AQI (air quality) app — especially for metro cities like Delhi, where dust and smog can worsen in summer.
6. Plan Travel Around Mango Season
Summer is mango season in India — and it's serious business. If you're headed to Maharashtra, Gujarat or Andhra Pradesh, time your visit to local mango festivals or orchards. You'll never look at supermarket mangoes the same way again.
7. Say Yes To Siestas, Not Street Food
As tempting as that chaat stall may look, summer heat and unhygienic handling don't mix well. Stick to reputable eateries, or choose freshly-cooked items over pre-prepared snacks. Upset stomachs in 45 degrees Celsius heat? A hard pass.
8. Pick Morning Or Late-Night Transport
Trains and buses during peak afternoon can feel like a steam room, especially if they're non-AC. Booking early morning or overnight travel not only helps avoid heat, but often means fewer delays and less chaos at stations.
9. Use SPF Like It's Your Job
Whether you're in humid Mumbai or dry Jaipur, the UV index is brutal. A broad-spectrum SPF 30 or above is a must — even if you're mostly indoors. Reapply every 3-4 hours, and throw in a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to complete the look (and the protection).
10. Don't Overpack Your Itinerary
Trying to tick off 15 sites in two days? Not in this heat. Leave buffer time, build in breaks, and allow space for impromptu plans. Indian summers can be unpredictable — one day it's dry, the next day there's a sudden storm or power cut.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
India.com
an hour ago
- India.com
Top 6 Sites For History Enthusiasts To Explore In And Around Kausani
Kausani is situated amidst the splendid beauty of the Himalayan foothills in Uttarakhand. This scenic region is famous for its panoramic views of snow capped peaks like Trishul, Nanda Devi and Panchachuli. Besides its natural splendor, it also boasts a rich historical tapestry woven with ancient ruins that remind us of past eras. For history buffs and tourists who want to unravel some of India's past, here are some must-see ancient ruins in and around Kausani. 1. Baijnath Temple The Baijnath temple is an epitome of ancient architecture as well as devotion topping our list. Just 17 kilometers from Kausani stands this temple complex which dates back to the 12th century dedicated to Lord Shiva. Enclosed by the serene beauty of Katyuri Valley, intricate stone carvings and graceful sculptures make viewing a spectacle. It remains an active site where long-forgotten rituals still echo through time. 2. Bageshwar Temples Further off about 38 kilometers away from Kausani are the Bageshwar Temples. Situated at the confluence point of Rivers Saryu and Gomti, this sacred place contains numerous old shrines meant for different Hindu deities which were constructed between 7th to 16th centuries by Chand and Katyuri dynasties depicting hundreds years' achievements in artistry combined with exercise spiritual reverence. 3. Jageshwar Temples Go deeper into Uttarakhand mystic woods about eighty-five kilometers away from Kausani; you will discover Jageshwar Temples. Over one hundred shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva are found in this complex which is located deep inside a serene valley amidst towering deodar trees. The temples date back to the 9th to 13th centuries and are known for their beautiful stone carvings and peaceful surroundings that make them a sought-after destination for pilgrims seeking spiritual rejuvenation as well as history buffs doing what they love best. 4. Katarmal Sun Temple About thirty-five kilometers away from Kausani, you will find the Katarmal Sun Temple – a hidden treasure in the hills. Built in the ninth century, it is one of the few sun temples in India dedicated to Surya, the Hindu solar deity. Located at an altitude, its architectural style reflects intricacies of Kumaoni art with sculptures representing celestial beings and mythological tales. The temple not only reveals ancient astronomy and religious practices but also offers breathtaking views of Himalayan ranges. Temple Complex Let your hair down, let loose and go spiritual! Chitai Temple Complex is located approximately fifty kilometers from Kausani. Dedicated to Golu Devta who is believed to be an incarnation of Lord Shiva, people come here with bells as offerings praying for fulfilled wishes like no other temple does on Earth. This place has been standing for centuries now and contains lots of brass bells that have prayers inscribed on them that fill up the atmosphere with faithfulness. Rudreshwar Cave For those with a sense of adventure plus curiosity Patal Rudreshwar Cave makes a good fit on your itinerary. Situated around forty five kilometers off from Kausani this natural cave system holds religious importance and it's believed by most people that it's linked with the underworld. It is decorated with stalactites and stalagmites representing Lord Shiva thus creating a mystique feel that enchants devotees and tourists alike over centuries past. Conclusion The ancient ruins around Kausani take you through the pages of time, as they are steeped in spirituality. Each site not only boasts marvelous architectural achievements but also preserves Indian culture and religion since time immemorial. Regardless if you would rather visit temples or mysterious caves and waterfalls sanctuaries, travel around Kausani district promises rich experiences to uncover riddles of past life against a backdrop of the immaculate beauty of Himalayas.
India.com
2 hours ago
- India.com
India's International Train Links: These 5 Indian Stations Connect You To Another Country By Train
photoDetails english Updated:Jun 06, 2025, 08:17 PM IST Indian Railway Stations That Cross Borders 1 / 7 India isn't just connected by rail within its own vast landscape—it also reaches beyond its borders. From bustling passenger terminals to busy freight corridors, here are five Indian railway stations that link directly with neighboring countries like Bangladesh and Nepal. Haldibari Railway Station, West Bengal 2 / 7 Haldibari Railway Station, located just 4.5 km from the Bangladesh border, connects to Chilhati station on the other side. This route was revived in 2020 after more than five decades. In 2021, the Mitali Express began operating between New Jalpaiguri and Dhaka, with a halt at Haldibari, making international rail travel smoother for passengers. Jaynagar Railway Station, Bihar 3 / 7 Jaynagar in Bihar's Madhubani district lies close to the Nepal border and connects to Kurtha station in Janakpur. This passenger train service was restored recently, allowing people from both countries to travel without passports or visas. It's especially useful for those visiting relatives or traveling for cultural and religious reasons. Singhabad Railway Station, West Bengal 4 / 7 Singhabad station in Malda district doesn't see much passenger traffic but is an important freight transit point. It links to Rohanpur in Bangladesh and also supports cargo movement to Nepal. This makes it a vital station for international trade in the region, especially for bulk goods. Petrapole Railway Station, West Bengal 5 / 7 Petrapole is one of India's busiest border stations, located in the North 24 Parganas district. It connects to Benapole in Bangladesh and is the starting point for the Bandhan Express that runs between Kolkata and Khulna. Passengers using this service need valid passports and visas. The station also handles a high volume of freight, making it a key trade gateway. Radhikapur Railway Station, West Bengal 6 / 7 Radhikapur station, near the Bangladesh border in Uttar Dinajpur, connects directly to Biral in Bangladesh. While it mainly handles freight, it plays a big role in boosting trade between India's eastern states like Assam and Bihar and parts of Bangladesh. It's particularly important for transporting coal and agricultural products. More Than Just Tracks 7 / 7 These railway stations are not just about travel—they're about building connections between countries. Whether it's the Mitali Express carrying passengers or a freight train moving goods, these links highlight India's growing role in regional connectivity and cooperation.
&w=3840&q=100)
First Post
2 hours ago
- First Post
Jaw-dropping beauty, visual feast: What to expect on Vande Bharat train trip to Kashmir
On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially opened two specially built Vande Bharat trains between Katra town and Srinagar city read more Prime Minister Narendra Modi flags off the Vande Bharat Express to inaugurate the Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat service, at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi station, in Katra, Jammu and Kashmir. PTI The long-awaited train to Kashmir is now a reality, giving a breathtaking and daring trip across the stunning terrain while crisscrossing the world's tallest railway bridge that seems to kiss the skies. On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially opened two specially built Vande Bharat trains between Katra town and Srinagar city. This would ensure all-weather surface connection with the Kashmir valley and cut the journey time between the two locations by two to three hours. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD PM Modi interacts with students inside Vande Bharat train, in J&K. PTI In the midst of winding tunnels built deep into the heart of the Shivaliks, the train gently winds through tiny gorges, deep valleys capped with towering Himalayan peaks and beautiful green forests, while the River Chenab runs alongside to it. The man-made engineering marvels include the highest Chenab bridge, India's first cable-stayed railway bridge and the 13-kilometre T-50 tunnel. Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the inauguration of the Chenab bridge, the world's highest railway bridge over the Chenab river, in Reasi district. PTI For travellers from across the country, especially nature-loving tourists, this journey promises an unforgettable passage through one of the most scenic and awe-inspiring routes on Earth. Vande Bharat train, flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, crosses the Chenab rail bridge, in Reasi district of J&K. PTI 'It is not an ordinary train but one meant for tourism — a visual feast and a traveller's date with nature, with beautiful and eye-catching scenery. I love it. I will remember it for years to come,' said author Satesh Verma from Delhi while talking to PTI. Nestled in the northernmost part of India, Jammu and Kashmir stands as a timeless symbol of natural splendour and serene beauty. Among the many ways to experience this enchanting region, a train ride from Katra to Kashmir offers a breathtaking journey through some of the most spectacular landscapes in the country. Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the inauguration of the Anji bridge, India's first cable-stayed rail bridge over the river Anji, in Reasi district of J&K. X/ @narendramodi Locomotive Pilot Manoj Kumar Meena expressed pride in driving the first train to Kashmir, calling it 'a simple journey through a wonderland with ever-changing frames of nature — from forests to rocky mountain peaks, deep valleys and narrow gorges, alongside man-made marvels.' 'I am proud to pilot this train to Kashmir which was flagged off from here. Can you believe it? The drive is a visual feast through a wonderland. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD 'Every frame of nature changes after short distances. The world's highest bridge and the tunnels are the biggest attractions,' he told PTI. Kumar, along with fellow locomotive pilots Vikas Chouhan and Rajinder Kumar, said, 'This will change the outlook of the Jammu region in terms of tourism. It will receive a major boost.' As the train snaked its way post-inauguration from Katra, the base camp of the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine, it felt like a visual odyssey, a living postcard offering a soul-stirring experience even before one sets foot in the Kashmir valley. Sahil Kumar, a railway employee from Kashmir, said as the train enters the heart of the mountains, passengers will witness a symphony of changing seasons and landscapes from snow-laden pine forests in winter to vibrant spring blossoms and from summer's lush greenery to the golden hues of autumn. As the train ascends, the plains of Jammu slowly give way to emerald forests, towering peaks, green valleys and the serpentine river Chenab. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD 'The grandeur of the Himalayas, Shivaliks and Pirpanjal forms a magnificent backdrop, while the train's lovely interior and comfort add a soothing charm to the dramatic scenery.' When the Vande Bharat train arrived on the world's highest Chenab bridge, standing 359 metres above mean sea level, school children on board cheered, shouting 'Jai Mata Di' in a moment of joy and pride. In a historic moment earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi dedicated to the nation the engineering marvel that is the Chenab Bridge — the highest railway bridge in the world, connecting the remote villages of Bakkal and Kauri in Reasi district. Designed to endure harsh terrain and extreme weather, the bridge can withstand wind speeds up to 260 kilometres per hour and is built to last 120 years. The Tricolour flies high over the Chenab Rail Bridge! It's a feeling of immense pride that this bridge seamlessly blends ambition with execution, reflecting India's growing capability to build futuristic infrastructure in the most challenging terrains. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 6, 2025 STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD 'It was a dream to visit this bridge and take pictures. I loved this moment. It's a great opportunity to travel on this first train. Thank you, Modi ji,' a Class 9 student, Sunita Kumari said. Like her, other students were elated to witness the historic opening of this incredible track to Kashmir. 'Now Kashmir is fully integrated. You can see this beauty. It's a once-in-a-lifetime moment, we are part of history,' said another student, Anurag. Another man-made marvel on the Katra–Banihal section is the Anji Khad Bridge, a high-value tourist attraction and India's first cable-stayed railway bridge. Supported by 96 cables, the 725-metre-long bridge stands 331 metres above mean sea level. The 272-kilometre-long Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, constructed at a cost of Rs 43,780 crore, comprises 36 tunnels covering 119 km and 943 bridges traversing the rugged Himalayan terrain. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD 'The Banihal–Katra section of the project is known for its man-made wonders — the world's highest railway bridge, the cable-stayed Anji Khad bridge, the longest T-50 tunnel, and a chain of tunnels and bridges. It is a breathtaking experience from a tourism perspective,' said Dilip Kumar, Executive Director of the Railway Board. He said this 111-km section has 97.4 km of track passing through tunnels and over bridges. 'It's a journey through India's engineering marvels,' he said. Social media has already dubbed this ride 'India's Switzerland experience' after viral videos showcased snow-covered trains cutting through the valley. Tourists, influencers and even South African cricket legend Jonty Rhodes expressed awe and a desire to experience it. Asserting that the journey on the Vande Bharat trains through hills will be a beautiful journey, Union Minister Jitendra Singh said, 'It is a beautiful journey, with scenic views along the way. Children, youth and even couples can take photos en route. This will also serve as an alternative route and reduce congestion on the highway.' STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD
