Summers are just upon us, and it is one of the best times to take a break and escape from the humdrum of life. Adding to this is the joy of long weekends which we eagerly look forward to for planning our trips. So, with holidays like Good Friday and Eid just around the corner, we have created a list of the best places to visit in April in India.
Be it the seekers of solitude or those wanting to witness the blooming valleys and quaint towns, these easy-to-reach destinations have something to offer to travellers who cannot get enough of the hills. Additionally, the weather is just perfect — neither too hot nor too cold — to engage in various activities like sightseeing in Kasauli, taking a boat ride on Srinagar’s Dal Lake, camping in Dharamshala or simply sitting back enjoying the view of the rolling hills in Ooty.
Best places to visit in April in India
Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir
Srinagar, located on the banks of river Jhelum, is characterised by towering mountains, greenery, Chinar trees, houseboats and the magnificent Dal Lake, which is a sight to behold. However, one of the main reasons Srinagar is a must-visit in April in India is the mesmerising Indira Gandhi Tulip Garden (Asia’s largest tulip garden), where you can see the flowers in full bloom from mid-March to April end.
Other major attractions in Srinagar include Nigeen Lake, Betab Valley, Nishat Bagh, Mughal Garden and Chashm-E-Shahi Garden. At Dal Lake, witness the floating market and shikaras to get an insight into the local culture and economy. And if you want to extend your stay, add nearby spots of Sonmarg, Gulmarg and Wular Lake to you travel list. Also, be sure to indulge in local Wazwan cuisine and shop for Kashmiri Apples, apricots, shawls, almonds and saffron.
How to reach
By air: Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport, also known as Srinagar Airport, is around 12 kilometres away from Srinagar city
By train: Pattan Railway Station, about 30 kilometres from Srinagar, is the closest railhead
By car: Srinagar is about 248 kilometres from Jammu and 792 kilometres from Delhi by road
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Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Complete with lush valleys and serene mountains, you will fall in love with Manali in no time. The hill station is a haven for all kinds of travellers — whether you’re going solo, looking for some adventure, or whisking away your partner on a romantic trip. From trekking, paragliding and birdwatching to nature hikes and magnificent temples, there is something to do for everyone. Day temperatures in Manali range between 14-20 degrees Celsius, making the town extremely pleasant and comfortable.
Some of the major attractions are the Hadimba (or Hidimba) Devi Temple, Naggar Castle (which featured in the film Jab We Met), Old Manali, Bhrigu Lake, Rohtang Pass (especially for snow-based activities), Jogini Falls and Manu Temple. Be sure to purchase woollen clothes and socks in the town, and enjoy local dishes such as Siddu, Khatta and Babru.
How to reach
By air: Kullu-Manali Airport (also called Bhuntar Airport) is about 50 kilometres from Manali
By train: The nearest railway station is Ambala Cantt, which is roughly 350 kilometres away
By car: Manali is best reachable via road, and the mesmerising views en route will make the journey worth the while. Manali is 596 kilometres from Delhi, 306 kilometres from Chandigarh and 40 kilometres from Kullu
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Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh
Dharamshala is among the most scenic places that you can visit in April in India. The hill station is surrounded by dense coniferous forests and the Dhauladhar range in the backdrop, which makes for some beautiful views this time of the year. The hill station has a blend of Tibetan and Kangra cultures and is known as the abode of the Dalai Lama. Dharamshala is especially popular among the youth, who come here to trek and spend time at nature retreats in this weather.
If you’re in Dharamshala, be sure to go on the Triund Trek, and visit St John in the Wilderness Church as well as the Gyuto Monastery. Other attractions include the War Memorial, Dharamkot Studio and Kangra Fort.
How to reach
By air: Kangra-Gaggal Airport is located about 13 kilometres away from Dharamshala
By train: The nearest railway station is in Pathankot, which is about 85 kilometres from the hill station
By car: Dharamshala is well-connected by road. It is about 527 kilometres from Delhi and 237 kilometres from Chandigarh
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Kasauli, Himachal Pradesh
Located between Kalka and Shimla, Kasauli is the perfect retreat for those around Chandigarh and Delhi who don’t want to travel longer distances. The idyllic town was established by the British in 1842, which explains its colonial-era charm. Complete with pine and oak trees, the hill station makes for a great vacation spot, with its pleasant weather this time of the year.
Enjoy activities like paragliding, walking along the Gilbert Trail, visiting Christ Church and going to Monkey Point. Do try Tibetan food and shop for woollens and local treats such as marmalades and jams.
How to reach
By air: The nearest airport is in Chandigarh, which is about 60 kilometres from Kasauli
By train: The nearest railway station is Kalka Railway Station, which is about 22 kilometres from Kasauli
By car: The destination is well-connected by road and is easily reachable by private cars, cabs and buses. Kasauli is 57 kilometres from Chandigarh and 350 kilometres from Delhi
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Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
Located in Uttarakhand, Mussoorie is also called the Queen of Hills. With comfortable weather and a pleasantly cool breeze, it is the perfect escape from the plains, making it among the must-visit places in April in India. Mussoorie not only offers some enchanting views of the hills but also has some quiet places for you to sit and unwind – right amid nature.
Some popular attractions here include treks such as Nag Tibba and boating. Spend your evenings at Mall Road or visit Kempty Falls. Another activity that adventure lovers should opt for is rock climbing.
How to reach
By air: The nearest airport is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is about 60 kilometres away
By train: Dehradun Railway Station is located 34 kilometres from Mussoorie
By car: Mussoorie is well-connected by road. It is 274 kilometres from Delhi, 201 kilometres from Chandigarh and 34 kilometres from Dehradun
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Nainital, Uttarakhand
The best-known feature of Nainital is the beautiful emerald lake that lies in the centre of the hill station. Surrounded by green hills, markets and charming cottages, the town is a tranquil, calm getaway from the bustling city life. Go boating in the lake, walk around its markets for fresh produce and local Pahadi cuisine, and purchase souvenirs for your friends and family.
Explore places such as heritage buildings and temples like Hanuman Garhi and Naina Devi, along with the many churches that dot the destination. You can also visit the Pangot and Kilbury Bird Sanctuary for birdwatching.
How to reach
By air: The nearest airport is in Pantnagar (69 kilometres)
By train: The nearest railway station is in Kathgodam, which is about 35 kilometres from Nainital
By car: A road trip to Nainital will take you through various cities and changing landscapes. The hill station is 315 kilometres from Delhi and 287 kilometres from Dehradun
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Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand
If your ideal vacation includes wildlife safaris and birdwatching, among the best places to visit in April in India, is Jim Corbett Park. Located a few hours from Delhi, it makes for the perfect weekend getaway offering luxurious resorts that have pools and spas for a comfortable experience.
Other attractions include the Corbett Waterfall, Garjia Temple and activities such as fishing and mountain biking to keep yourself entertained.
How to reach
By air: The nearest airport is in Pantnagar, located about 80 kilometres from Corbett
By train: The nearest railway station is Ramnagar Railway Station, which is about a kilometre from the national park
By car: The destination is 243 kilometres from Delhi
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Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Nestled in the Nilgiri Hills in Tamil Nadu, Ooty is characterised by vast tea plantations, blue-hued mountains, and meadows. Adding to its panoramic views are pine forests and eucalyptus trees, as well as beautiful waterfalls. A popular place to visit in April in India, Ooty enjoys pleasant weather and is great for anyone seeking a quiet escapade from city life.
Some of the experiences you must include in your trip are a ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and going to the Tea Museum. Other must-visit places include Botanical Gardens, Pykara Village, Upper Bhavani Lake, St Stephens Church, Catherine Waterfall and the Honey and Bee Museum, to name a few.
How to reach
By air: The nearest airport is in Coimbatore (88 kilometres), which receives flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru
By train: Ooty has its own railway station, which is on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway route. It is about 900 metres from the main town
By car: Ooty is accessible by road and is about 86 kilometres from Coimbatore
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Masinagudi, Tamil Nadu
Another serene destination amidst the Nilgiris, Masinagudi is just about an hour’s drive away from Ooty. A part of the Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary, the place is blessed with a thick forest cover, cascading waterfalls and stunning landscapes. No doubt, then, that Masinagudi makes for a calming retreat for nature lovers and wildlife photographers this time of the year.
Places that you must visit include Pykara Falls, Mudumalai National Park, Maravakandy Dam, and Moyar River. Go on nature safaris, and the rest of the time, spend time on nature hikes or reading by a waterfall. Go camping if you have the time to make the most of your trip.
How to reach
By air: The nearest airport is in Coimbatore (116 kilometres)
By train: The nearest railway station is the Ooty Railway Station, which is 30 kilometres away
By car: The hill station is well-connected by roads and makes for a beautiful journey up the hills. Ooty is about 114 kilometres from Masinagudi
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Munnar, Kerala
Marked by winding pathways and calming nature, Munnar is among the places to visit in April in South India. Spend your time walking amidst the tea plantations and many gardens or sit by its waterfalls for some calm. What makes Munnar special is water sports at Mattupetty Dam, shikara rides at Kundala Lake, local cuisine and street shopping.
When in Munnar, visit Lakkam Waterfalls, Kalari Kshetra, and the local markets and churches. You can also go out camping in the woods, or go on a trek or two.
How to reach
By air: The nearest airport is in Kochi (125 kilometres)
By train: The nearest railway station is in Aluva, about 110 kilometres away
By car: Kochi is located about 127 kilometres away and makes for a pleasant trip up the hills
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Idukki, Kerala
Idukki, located in God’s Own Country (Kerala), is a picturesque district dotted with rivers, hill stations and the splendour of nature. The quaint place makes for a rejuvenating vacation over the weekend and is a must-visit in the month of April. What also makes Idukki special this time of the year is the Chithrapournami celebrations, which happen at the Mangaladevi Temple here. The temple opens for devotees once a year, on this full moon day, and priests from Tamil Nadu and Kerala conduct ritualistic prayers.
Immerse your senses in the magnificent views of steep cliffs and beautiful lagoons or go exploring on foot deeper into the woods. Some popular attractions here include Idukki Arch Dam, the Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary, Keezharkuthu Falls, Valara Waterfalls, and Hill View Park.
How to reach
By air: The nearest airport is in Kochi, about 100 kilometres away
By train: The nearest railway station is in Kottayam (103 kilometres)
By car: Idukki has a good network of roads and is about 126 kilometres from Kochi
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Nandi Hills, Karnataka
Located just a couple of hours from Bengaluru, Nandi Hills offers the weekend getaway you didn’t know you needed. The destination is a collection of hillocks that provide breathtaking views of nature. Also, present here are intricately carved arches, majestic pillars and carefully painted walls and ceilings, which add to its charm.
The place also has several shrines and monuments scattered about, which will make for a great short trip when your mind needs a vacation after months of non-stop work. Also experience activities such as cycling, trekking and camping.
How to reach
By air: The closest airport is in Bengaluru and is located roughly 38 kilometres from the hill station
By train: Bangalore City Junction railway station is located 60 kilometres from Nandi Hills
By car: The road distance between Bengaluru and Nandi Hills is 61 kilometres
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Borra Caves, Andhra Pradesh
Among the largest caves in the country, Borra Caves are in the Ananthagiri Mandal of the Visakhapatnam district in Andhra Pradesh. Discovered by William King George of the Geological Survey of India in 1907, these caves are said to have been formed some one million years ago. The caves were created due to the flow of the Gosthani River on the limestone deposits and are known for their magnificent stalactite and stalagmite formations. Some stories suggest that the caves were discovered by a cowherd who came here while searching for his lost cow. He saw a Shiva Linga inside the caves and believed that it was the god who saved his cow.
Other major attractions in and around Borra Caves include a small temple located just outside the caves and Araku Valley (which is roughly 35 kilometres from here). About two hours away is the INS Kurusura Submarine Museum, as well as beaches like Ramakrishna Beach.
How to reach
By air: Visakhapatnam Airport (83 kilometres) is the closest to Borra Caves
By train: The nearest railway station is Borra Guhalu (950 metres), which receives a train daily from Visakhapatnam
By car: Borra Caves are well-connected by roads to Visakhapatnam (90 kilometres) and Araku (37 kilometres)
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Shillong, Meghalaya
Also called Scotland of the East, Shillong is a truly enchanting destination to visit in April in India. Among the popular festivals that fall around this time of the year is Shad Suk Mynsiem, which is a traditional way of offering thanks for the bountiful harvest. The capital of Meghalaya is a picturesque city, with magnificent views of the mountains and its combination of lakes, waterfalls and jungles, which are at their best around this time. Visit attractions such as Elephant Falls, Lady Hydari Park, Ward’s Lake, and Laitlum Canyons.
Some other places that you must visit around Shillong are Umiam Lake, Dawki River, and David Scott Trail. Make sure to sample local delicacies and bring back traditional crafts such as shawls and bamboo products.
How to reach
By air: Shillong Airport is located almost 24 kilometres from Shillong City
By train: The nearest railway station is in Guwahati, which is located roughly 97 kilometres away
By car: You can hail a bus or a taxi to reach Shillong from Guwahati (98 kilometres)
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Agartala, Tripura
Agartala is known for its verdant greenery. The city celebrates Garia Puja, which is held on the seventh day of the month of Baisakh (April) which makes visiting the destination this time of the year a memorable experience. Locals worship Lord Garia, the deity of livestock and wealth.
Within the city, explore its local life and culture as well as spots such as Ujjayanta Palace and Tripura Government Museum. Be sure to relish Chuak (a local rice beer) as well as dishes made using fermented bamboo shoots and Berma (fermented fish). Places around Agartala that you must plan a trip to include Jampui Hills, Tripura Sundari Temple and Neermahal Palace.
Check out our complete guide to the best places to see in Tripura.
How to reach
By air: Agartala has its own airport, which is about 11 kilometres from the city centre
By train: Agartala Railway Station is located 7 kilometres from the city
By car: The city is well-connected by roads and is located about 323 kilometres from Aizawl
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Kurseong, West Bengal
Located in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, Kurseong boasts a pleasant climate throughout the year. The hill station is located just 30 kilometres from Darjeeling and is a relatively quieter spot than its much more popular counterpart. Also called ‘Land of the White Orchids’, Kurseong is home to cascading waterfalls, misty skies and lush green roads, making for a relaxed weekend.
Some of the must-visit places around the hill station are Eagle’s Crag (which also makes for a great hike), Darjeeling, Dow Hill and Dow Hill Park, as well as the tea gardens here.
How to reach
By air: Bagdogra Airport is located about 40 kilometres from Kurseong. It gets flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Ahmedabad, to name a few cities.
By train: The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri, from where you can board the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway to reach Darjeeling. Kurseong is 29 kilometres from here.
By car: It is roughly 30 kilometres from Darjeeling, 43 kilometres from New Jalpaiguri and 629 kilometres from Kolkata.
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Lonavala, Maharashtra
Probably among the most popular getaways from Mumbai and Pune, Lonavala is a must-visit in April. The hill station is characterised by its cascading waterfalls which make for some amazing treks, camping by the lakeside, and trips to the temples and old, dilapidated forts around. Adventure sports such as Bungee Jumping await you at Della Adventure Park, while Imagica is known for its water rides.
Some other attractions around Lonavala include Pawna Lake, Lohagad Fort, Khandala and Karla Caves. Be sure to buy locally-made chikki and fudge from here!
How to reach
By air: The nearest airports are in Pune (69 kilometres) and Mumbai (92 kilometres)
By train: Pune Railway Station is 69 kilometres away, while the Mumbai Central station is 95 kilometres from Lonavala
By car: Mumbai is about 82 kilometres from Lonavala, while Pune is roughly 67 kilometres
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Panchgani, Maharashtra
Nestled amidst the Sahyadri Mountain Ranges, Panchgani is a magnificent hill station in the heart of Maharashtra. It is surrounded by lakes, peaks and waterfalls, making for a rejuvenating experience. Spend quiet hours in its many cafes or go for long walks on nature trails. Between March to May, Panchgani and the nearby hill station of Mahabaleshwar have a strawberry festival, where enthusiasts from across the country come to sample the delicious fruit as well as edibles such as jams, sauces and candies made with it.
Other things to do here are nature walks and treks, visiting the cheese factory, and spending time at Sherbaug.
How to reach
By air: The nearest airport is in Pune (101 kilometres)
By train: The closest railway station is in Satara (52 kilometres)
By car: Panchgani is well-connected by road and is about 101 kilometres from Pune
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Alibaug, Maharashtra
A couple of hours away from Mumbai is Alibaug (or Alibag). The beach destination is another popular getaway for locals in April, given its pleasant climate and many beaches. The town is also a popular wedding destination, having hosted nuptials of celebrities such as Varun Dhawan and Natasha Dalal and influencers such as Juhi Godambe Jain.
Alibaug has ample beaches, forts and temples for you to explore. What makes visiting the place more fun is the ferry ride you can take from Gateway of India in Mumbai to reach here.
How to reach
By air: The nearest airport is the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai (108 kilometres)
By train: The nearest railway stations are in Roha (56 kilometres) and Panvel (62 kilometres)
By car: You can drive down from Mumbai (98 kilometres) or Pune (145 kilometres)
Another way to reach is via ferries that you get at Gateway of India in Mumbai, which will offer magnificent views of the sea
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Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh
Pachmarhi is in the Satpura Range and is also called ‘Satpura ki Rani’. The destination comes blessed with a variety of offerings, including temples, wildlife sanctuaries, woods and waterfalls. Visit spots such as Pandava Caves, Pachmarhi Catholic Church, Satpura National Park and Rajat Prapat.
When there, enjoy activities such as horse riding, trekking and ziplining, or immerse yourself in the surroundings on long hikes and outdoor picnics.
How to reach
By air: Raja Bhoj International Airport in Bhopal is the nearest to Pachmarhi and is located about 222 kilometres away
By train: The nearest railway station is in Pipariya, about 52 kilometres away
By car: Pachmarhi is about 210 kilometres from Bhopal and 288 kilometres from Jabalpur
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Hero and Featured Image credit: Rasheda Akter/Unsplash
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Answer: Some of the cities that are a must-visit in April in India are Shimla, Manali, Mussoorie, Ooty, Masinagudi, Bengaluru and Shillong.
Answer: Some must-visit places in April in India are Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Maharashtra and the Northeastern states.
Answer: Some hill stations you can visit in April in India are Manali, Kurseong, Darjeeling, Nandi Hills, Mussoorie, Munnar and Coonoor.
Anushka Goel
Digital Features Writer
Anushka has previously worked with publications such as the Times of India and Being Indian. A graduate from Xavier Institute of Communications, she specialises in entertainment, food and travel. She also likes to write about sustainability and beauty. When not working, you can catch her reading a book, tending to her plants, cooking or playing an instrument.
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