Best Travel Destinations in India

India is a photographer’s dream, offering an extraordinary range of landscapes, cultures, and seasonal transformations. From the snow-capped Himalayas to the sun-kissed beaches of the south, every season brings a new visual spectacle. Whether you're a professional travel photographer or an enthusiast with a passion for capturing beauty, this guide will help you plan your trips around India’s most photogenic destinations—categorised by summer, monsoon, and winter.

- ANIRUDH IYER

1. Summer (March - June):

Escape the Heat in Cool Highlands and Coastal Paradises

Summer in India can be harsh, with temperatures soaring above 40°C in many regions. However, this is the perfect time to explore the country's hill stations, desert landscapes, and tropical islands, where the weather remains pleasant, and the scenery is breathtaking.

A. Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir

- The Land of High Passes & Stark Beauty

Ladakh, often called “Little Tibet”, is a high-altitude desert with dramatic landscapes—snowy peaks, turquoise lakes, and ancient monasteries perched on cliffs. The summer months (May-September) are the only time when roads are accessible, making it ideal for photography expeditions.

Photography Highlights:

• Pangong Tso Lake - Famous for its shifting shades of blue, this lake is a surreal sight against the barren mountains. The best time to shoot is sunrise or sunset when the colours are most vibrant.

• Nubra Valley - A unique high-altitude desert with sand dunes and double-humped Bactrian camels. The contrast between the dunes and snow-capped peaks is mesmerising.

• Hemis & Thiksey Monasteries - These Buddhist monasteries glow golden in the morning light, offering incredible opportunities for architectural and cultural photography.

• Tso Moriri Lake - Less crowded than Pangong, this lake reflects the surrounding mountains perfectly, ideal for mirror-effect shots.

Pro Tip: Use a polarizing filter to enhance the colours of the lakes and reduce glare.

B. Shimla & Manali, Himachal Pradesh

- Colonial Charm & Alpine Meadows