SUMMER IDEAS

5 Beautiful International Destinations to Explore This May

Chandana Banerjee

Last updated: May 4, 2017

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As the mercury rises, so does the temptation to pack those bags and take off for cooler climes. With hill-stations in India packed to the brim, this is just the time to take that international trip you’ve always been vying for. Here are five countries where you can have lots of fun under the summer sun.

Bhutan

bhutan

Whether you’re in Bhutan during the summer months or at the cusp of monsoons, the country is a traveller’s paradise. Visit the Buddha Statue in Kuenselphodrang, Thimphu, or take a hike to Tiger’s Nest (Taktsang Monastery) in Paro. While you’re making your way to Tiger’s Nest, don’t forget to capture stunning views of the valley by your side—the skies are clear in the summer season, which makes for excellent photo opportunities. Pack a hamper and set out to explore the many exquisite monasteries in Bhutan—one of those is the famous Punakha Dzong that stands on the confluence of Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. To explore the astounding landscapes of the Himalayan range in Bhutan, rent a car and drive to Dochula Pass, which is approximately 30 km away from Thimphu city.

For those wishing to traverse through the natural wonders of Bhutan, take a hike to the beautiful Haa Valley located towards the southern-western zone of Paro, or explore the U-shaped Phobjikha Valley (also known as Gangteng Valley). These hikes will fill your diaries with riverside picnics, countless snapshots of the mountains, and a few interesting tales from the locals you might befriend on the way.

Norway

norway

There’s a lot to do and see in Norway. Begin by riding the cable car to Mount Floya to see the midnight sun. Once you’ve checked that off your bucket list, rent a car and go on a hair-raising drive along the Geiranger-Trollstigen National Tourist Route – a very popular road that snakes through the breathtaking landscape between Romsdal and Strynefjell. To explore more of the scenic treasures of the country, cruise through the fjords, past the steep mountains. The Seiland National Park, which is home to two glaciers – Nordmannsjøkelen and Seilandsjøkelen, is another place worth chalking into your itinerary.

If you want to get to know more about the culture of Sami people, then hop over to Finnmark to not only dip into their unique heritage, but also take part in their local music and art festivals that are hosted during the summer. And, don’t leave Norway before you enjoy a midnight concert of Norwegian folk songs and orchestras at the Arctic Cathedral in Tromsø.

Nepal

nepal

If you’ve ever wanted to travel to Nepal, this summer might just be the right time for you. With an abundance of natural beauty as well as historical architecture, Nepal is on every global traveller’s must-visit list. Begin with a trip to Mustang on the border of Nepal and Tibet. With its dense rhododendron and alpine forests, it’s a favourite with hikers, bikers and rock climbers. For exquisite views of snow-clad mountains, wild animals and forests, visit the Phoksundo National Park in Dolpo. If it’s historical sites that you’re after, take a guided tour through Kathmandu to see the UNESCO world heritage sites and the many temples that are scattered across the city.

Those wanting to try their hand at zip lining, canoeing, white water rafting and skydiving, Pokhara – the ‘City of Lakes’ – is just the place to get adventurous. However, if you’re craving greenery and exquisite views of the Annapurna, the quiet town of Nagarkot offers this and more to the nature lover.

Croatia

croatia

Want to spend a beautiful summer away from the touristy crowds? Croatia, with its burnished beaches, rolling vineyards, architectural gems and year-round sun is just the place you are looking for. History lovers will like visiting the Lovrijenac Fortress, an imposing structure posed on a cliff top with terracotta rooftops and commanding views. To soak in the charms of 16 interconnected turquoise lakes, verdant forest-covered mountains and tumbling waterfalls, hike through the Plitvice Lakes National Park, which is also a UNESCO Natural Heritage site. The Zagorje region is a delight with its quaint medieval castles, vineyards perched on hilltops and warm springs. While you’re here, pop into Krapina to tour the wine taverns, see the lovely Trakošćan Castle and hike through the highlands.

You can’t afford to miss the vibrant beaches and harbours when in Croatia, so pencil in a trip to Makarska for exclusive cruises and long stretches of beach time. The Mljet National Park is another place that you must visit for its dense pine forests, and sparkling saltwater lakes and lagoons, which makes it a great spot for kayaking and biking.

California

california

We can’t wrap up our list of summer destinations without mentioning California, can we? With national parks, exotic islands, deserts and lakes to explore, this is an interesting destination for anyone craving a fun-filled holiday. Begin with a trip to the Yosemite National Park, and hike through the scenic landscape dotted with mammoth waterfalls, rivers and majestic mountains. If you enjoy the challenge of walking through a sprawling desert, which is known for its inhospitable but strangely beautiful terrain, then head over to the Death Valley National Park. With a luxurious coastline and scenic woods, the Garrapata State Park and Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park are ideal for hikers and campers.

Lake Tahoe is a boater’s paradise in the summer months with locals and travellers flocking to this beautiful lake for some exquisite summer fun. The Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park, with its gigantic redwoods, granite peaks, mountain lakes and deep gorges is another hotspot worth visiting in California. And if you’re taking a family holiday with kids in tow, don’t forget to pop into Sea World – a theme park that’s known for its dolphin and orca shows.

Read More: What You Must Do in San Francisco

These five countries will leave you spoilt for choice in terms of adventure, entertainment, relaxation and more. Where do you want your summer holiday to unfold?

Comments

Joaquin | on 26 May 2018

Croatia is a well known holiday destination of the world where a lot of visitors visited it annually with family and friends and enjoyed the beauty of this alluring destination. I really like it so much and I have spent a really good time there.