Wondering about the best places to visit in September in India? If yes, then this is your quick guide to the best that India has on offer. And believe us, you will have a tough time choosing. Right from the misty, rolling hills of Munnar and the high Himalayas of Ladakh to the backwaters of Kerala and the ancient monasteries of Arunachal Pradesh, you can choose it all. While some surprise rain showers in September can set the roads just right for those scenic drives, the weather remains pretty much clear all along the month to make your vacation hassle-free.

Gangtok

Nestled in the lower Himalayas, the city of Gangtok has grown over the mountains and in the valleys. Seen from the skies or even from the ropeway, Gangtok shows a colourful facade against the backdrop of the snow-clad mountains. At one time, Gangtok was an important stop on the trade route between British India and Tibet. The Nathu La pass saw a constant stream of traders and travellers come across mountains on either side, bringing not only goods but religious texts and beliefs too. All that came to an end with the Indo-China war of 1962, which ended the independence of Tibet and closed its borders with India. In recent times, the situation has improved with the pass being opened for trade at regular intervals, and also with the route to Kailash being opened through this side. Things are looking up for Sikkim, and especially Gangtok. There is so much to see and do, that tourists are pouring in! Here are 10 places you must visit, if you are in Gangtok!

Nainital

You can choose from a myriad things to do in Nainital, Kumaon’s famous tourist destination. While boating at Naini Lake is a quintessential Nainital experience, you can go for a session of stargazing at the Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences, ride up the ropeway to Snow View, go trekking up to Tiffin Top or get a sneak peek into Himalayan wildlife at the lesser known GB Pant Zoo. Evening strolls by the lakeside is, of course, a must do.

Gokarna

Gokarna, a sleepy little beach town, lies secluded off the national highway 17, which makes its way to Goa. Located very close to the Karnataka- Goa border, Gokarna has been a popular destination since the 70s and 80s when hippies found this hamlet to be more peaceful and serene than the vibrant Goa. It was then only known as a spiritual town on the western coast of Karnataka, which was popular for its Mahabaleshwar Temple. With the incessant flow of tourists, backpackers and foreign hippies, Gokarna has carved a niche for itself in the Indian travel circuit. Its serene and secluded beaches, tucked away from the crowd are the major attractions that bring hordes of visitors to this beach hamlet. Though there are many beaches, some accessible only through a trek or a catamaran ride, Om Beach has been extremely popular. With numerous shacks, hotels and cafes lined on Om Beach and Kudle Beach, Gokarna is an ideal place to relax and break away from the monotony of life.

Kullu-Manali

From the snowy delights of Rohtang Pass to the soothing warmth of the surrounding thermal springs, there are several places to visit in Kullu Manali for nature lovers and thrill seekers. With its picturesque views of snow-clad mountains, river valleys, charming cafes and laidback vibe, this hill station in Himachal Pradesh is an immensely popular vacation spot with both domestic and foreign tourists. Its widespread appeal draws everyone from adventure sport enthusiasts and vacationing families and honeymoon couples and hippie backpackers. Here are seven places you must visit during your holiday.

Munnar

There are plenty of interesting places to visit in and around Munnar. While nature lovers must visit places like Echo Point, Eravikulam National Park and Kundala Lake, there is a lot for culture buffs as well. The dolmens and rock paintings at Marayur near Munnar, and the Tea Museum that is one of the biggest tea estates in town, are great for some cultural and historical insight. Other than these, the lush green tea estates that line the roadside in Munnar are a no less attraction for those who can marvel at picture perfect scenic beauty.

Arunachal Pradesh

Arunachal Pradesh is one of the Seven Sister states in the lesser explored region of North East India. I had the pleasure of exploring this state for 11 days and seeing the best of the best! I’ve lived in and travelled India for three years, but this has been my absolute favourite place that I’ve visited so far. There is a variety of people and cultures in Arunachal Pradesh. The northwest area is inhabited by Monpa people who are Buddhist and Tibetan in culture, while some areas are of Hindus and others are of Christians. The villages throughout the state have tribal people with many different beliefs such as worshipping the sun and the moon. With such a mixed bag, you might find it daunting to plan your itinerary, but you need not worry as here are some of the things to see in Arunachal Pradesh that must be a part of your list.

Ladakh

The rugged terrain of Ladakh is dotted with innumerable monasteries or gompas as the majority of its population practice Buddhism as their religion. These monasteries not only attract visitors for religious and cultural significance but also for architectural splendour. Old scriptures, thangkas, murals and other relics effortlessly capture the attention of visitors. Besides, the peaceful ambience of these gompas has a rejuvenating effect. To believe that you have seen it all by visiting just one monastery would be wrong as each monastery is unique in one way or the other.