6 Photogenic Destinations Every Lens Lover Should Explore this Summer

 Every photographer dream of taking exquisite shots of landscape, nature, wildlife, and much more! Where you want to shoot the Northern Lights in timelapse or the wildflowers in the valleys of the Himalayas, nature has so much to offer. The mountain ranges of the Himalayas provide the perfect combination of natural beauty, adventure, and photogenic sceneries. 

This year plan an enthralling adventure trip to these picturesque destinations across North India:

1. Explore the scenic hill town of Pahalgam

Located at an altitude of 2740 m, Pahalgam is a picturesque hill town that seems to have come to life from the brushstrokes of a talented painter! This serene hamlet is surrounded by evergreen forests, cerulean lakes, and meadows dotted with spring wildflowers. Take a solitary walk across the scenic pastures while basking in the surrounding tranquility. For a rejuvenating trip to refresh your soul, plan a trip to Pahalgam this summer. 

When to visit Pahalgam: Summer months- June to October, Winter months- December & January

Fun Activities: Trek to the scenic Aru Valley. Enjoy horseback riding. Go canoeing. Visit the Sheshnag Lake.

Easiest Route:

• Travel by flight: Reach Srinagar by flight and you can hire a cab to reach Pahalgam.

• Travel by bus: You can board a connecting bus from Srinagar to Pahalgam.

• Travel by train: Jammu is the nearest railway station.

Book hotels in Pahalgam for a relaxing vacation in this quaint little hill station. You can book hotels in Pahalgam in advance as they can get booked quickly during the peak summer months. 

Book a safe and hygienic stay at the Oyo rooms hotels across various destinations in India. Oyo rooms hotels is ensuring safe stay for all their guests by adhering to W.H.O guidelines. 

2. Cerulean skies, pristine lakes, & rugged landscape at Ladakh

If you are looking for a tranquil getaway amidst majestic surroundings, plan a summer trip to Ladakh. Much loved by adventure seekers and trekkers Ladakh is known for its monasteries, mountain ranges, crystal-clear lakes, hiking trails, and panoramic views. Soak in the beauty of the pristine Pangong Tso lake. Camp right next to the lake to wake up to unforgettable sunrise views amidst the tranquil surroundings. Even if you are camping at different altitudes, you can keep your travel bags and other belongings at any Ladakh hotels. 

Book Ladakh hotels that offer budget-friendly accommodations for your next trip. Leh Ladakh hotels are best booked in advance as the peak travel season begins from May-June. 

Temperature: The average temperature ranges between 20°C-30°C.

Must-Visit Places: Nubra Valley, Gompa, Khardung La, Thikse Monastery, Leh Palace, Magnetic Hill, Shanti Stupa, and Chang La.

Fun Activities: Plan a trek to Chadar. If you can ride a motorbike, go to Magnetic Hill and Khardung La. You can also enjoy adventurous activities like river rafting in the Indus river. Other activities include mountain climbing at Stok Kangri and jeep safari in Ladakh. 

Easiest Route:

• The nearest airport is Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport. 

• The nearest railway station which is 700 kilometers from Ladakh is Jammu Tawi. 

• You can also travel by the Manali-Leh road which opens by mid of June.

Pro-Travel Tips: Check your oxygen levels before trekking towards Ladakh. Spend a day or two for acclimatization to avoid mountain sickness or shortness of breath.

3. Go hiking and camping by the lake at Leh

A biker's and trekker's paradise, Leh is one of the popular tourist spots to visit during summer. Surrounded by colossal mountains, azure lakes, and rugged terrain makes Leh an ideal getaway for nature lovers. Be captivated while driving through one of the most picturesque driveways in India. 

When to Visit Leh: Summer months- April to June, 

Fall/ Autumn months- September to October. All the connecting roadways remain closed after November owing to snowfall. 

Fun Activities: Plan a trekking and overnight camping trip by the lake. Go mountain biking across the rugged terrains and rocky highways. Visit the Zanskar Valley, Pangong Tso Lake, and Kargil valley. 

Easiest Route:

• Travel by flight: The nearest airport is Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport.

• Travel by bus: You can reach Srinagar by bus and board a connecting bus to reach Leh.

• Travel by train: The nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi

To get attractive deals at the best hotels in Leh, book at least two months in advance from your preferred travel date. 

You can check in your belongings at the best hotels in Leh while planning a trek to any nearby locations. 

4. Explore Solang Valley & trek to the Rohtang Pass in Manali

Manali is one of the picturesque destinations in India to travel for all photography enthusiasts. Book budget hotels in Manali in advance to avail attractive discounts during your stay. This budget-friendly hill station is a haven for honeymooners and couples alike during the summer months. Go for paragliding and mountain biking across the scenic mountain trails. Spend the day relaxing in the serenity of the lush green Dhauladhar mountain range. 

The average temperature in Manali in June-July ranges from 10 C to 25 C. To avoid overcrowded resorts, book budget hotels in Manali for a comfortable and memorable stay. 

Top Attractions: Solang Valley, Kullu, Trekking, Overnight camping

How to reach Manali: You can drive to Manali from Delhi or Shimla. Alternatively, you can book a private bus ride to Manali. 

5. Enjoy solitary boat rides across scenic fjords and pristine lakes in Nainital

To avoid peak season tariffs, check out for attractive offers at budget hotels in Nainital. Go for walks hand-in-hand around the mountain trails dotted with tall oak trees. Capture memories that will last a lifetime while cruising across the Bhimtal lake on your private boat. The rhododendron forests and calming lakes add to the beauty and charm of this hill town, making it a preferred destination during the summer months. Book a romantic stay by the lakeside at the best budget hotels in Nainital. The average temperature in Nainital and Bhimtal in June/ July ranges between 10 C to 28 C. Go for a boat ride in the Naini lake while enjoying majestic sunset views in Nainital. 

Top Attractions: Paragliding and trekking, Nainital Lake, Bhimtal Lake, and Tiffin Top

How to reach Nainital: You can travel by road from Delhi to reach Nainital by cab or state-run buses. 

6. Wildflowers, lakes, & Gondolas rides in Gulmarg

Be captivated with the sprawling spread of vibrant flowers overlooking the snow-clad mountains in Gulmarg. A paradise for adventure lovers, trekkers, and photographers, Gulmarg is the perfect place to enjoy skiing in the snow while enjoying the scenic views. While winter is the popular season to visit Gulmarg, a visit during the summer will allow you to enjoy the natural beauty in all its glory. 

When to visit Gulmarg: Summer trip from June to October. Winter trip during December & January.

Fun Activities: During the summer months plan an exciting trek and go mountain biking. Set sail on a romantic Gondola ride with your significant other to bask in the captivating views of the valley. Visit the Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve, Strawberry Field, and trek to Apharwat Peak.

Easiest Route:

• Travel by flight: Take a flight to Srinagar Airport and hire a cab/ taxi to reach Gulmarg within 3 hours. 

• Travel by bus: If you are traveling by state-run buses to Srinagar, take a connecting bus to Gulmarg. 

• Travel by train: Jammu is the nearest railway station.

These are the best photogenic destinations to visit for photographers this summer.