Springtime Getaways: 4 Must-Visit Places In India In April For Seniors Travellers

With the biting cold of the winter months giving way to the warmth and colours of spring, April offers some of the best weather for travellers to explore India. In fact, it is the perfect time to visit those places that have mild weather during this time, fluctuating between extreme heat and cold during the peak of summer or winter.

April is also the time when the plains of India, including the major metropolis of Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai experience the first burst of the summer heat. As such, these springtime getaways give them a nice opportunity to unwind and relax in the pleasant weather away from the heat.

So, here are four travel getaways in India for senior travellers to enjoy in April.

Kashmir: Blooming Heaving

Kashmir becomes nothing less than a paradise for travellers in April, with the valley encased in a riot of colours, including apple blossoms, tulips, and almond trees in bloom. Top places to visit include Srinagar, which is the heart of the valley, and the tulip garden (Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden), which is Asia’s largest tulip garden. Other popular attractions include Dal Lake and Nigeen Lake, Mughal Gardens, Old Srinagar, and the Jagia Masjid.

Gulmarg, a winter wonderland, transitions into a spring ski paradise in early April, with the highest green golf course in the world opening up with the thaw of the winter snow. Pahalgam, a peaceful retreat that is perfect for nature lovers, is a serene retreat with a picturesque setting. Other popular attractions include the Betaab Valley, Aru Valley, and the Lidder River.

Festivals and events in Kashmir in April include the Tulip Festival in Srinagar, which showcases tulips, live Kashmiri folk music, local crafts, food stalls, and cultural programs. Baisakhi Celebrations in the Jammu region are observed by Sikhs and Hindus with fairs, temple visits, and cultural events.

Try authentic Kashmiri cuisine, such as Wazwan, shop locally, go on gentle walks and hikes, and immerse yourself in the local culture. Travel tips include carrying warm clothes, booking accommodations and tulip garden tickets early, hiring a local cab or tour guide, and checking for permits if visiting border areas like Gurez Valley.

Wayanad: A Lush Spring Escape

Wayanad, a lush, green destination in the Western Ghats of Kerala, is a perfect springtime destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to unwind. The region offers a variety of attractions, including the Banasura Sagar Dam, Edakkal Caves, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Pookode Lake, Soochipara Falls, Chembra Peak, Kuruva Island, and local temple festivals called Utsavams.

Top places to visit in April include Banasura Sagar Dam, Edakkal Caves, Pookode Lake, Soochipara Falls, Chembra Peak, Chembra Peak, Spice Plantation Tours, Tribal Village Visits, Ayurvedic Spa & Wellness, and Kerala-style meals served on banana leaves, bamboo biryani, and traditional tribal dishes.

Though the weather is typically warm in April, mornings and evenings are cool and breezy. Pack light and carry cotton clothes, trekking shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and a light jacket. Eco-resorts, homestays in plantations, and tree houses are popular options.

To reach Wayanad, take a moderately challenging trek to reach the caves, which requires a moderately challenging trek. The region is also home to elephants, leopards, deer, and birds, making it an ideal spot for morning and evening safaris.

Festivals in Wayanad in April include traditional percussion music, elephant processions with colourful decorations, and cultural performances at temples, such as Thirunelly Temple and Valliyoorkavu Bhagavathi Temple.

Coorg: India’s Scotland

Coorg (Kodagu), a picturesque hill station in Karnataka is a magical place to explore in April, with misty mornings, coffee blossoms, and scenic hills wrapped in green.

The weather is pleasantly warm during the day and cool at night, making it ideal for relaxation and adventure. Top places to visit in Coorg in April include the Abbey Falls, Raja’s Seat, Namdroling Monastery (Golden Temple), Dubare Elephant Camp, Talaauvery and Bhagamandala, and coffee and spice plantations.

Festivals and events in Coorg in April include Kailpodh, which is also actively celebrated in September, and Temple Fairs (Jatre) held by many local temples. Top things to do in Coorg in April include trekking, rafting, bird watching, nature walks, savouring local Kodava cuisine, shopping, and visiting local markets.

Travel tips for Coorg include packing cotton clothes, a light jacket, sunscreen, trekking shoes, and insect repellent. The nearest airports are in Mangalore and Kannur. Coorg is best reached by road from Mysore, Bangalore, or Mangalore.

Darjeeling: Tea and Toy Trains            

Darjeeling in April offers a dreamy landscape with clear skies, cool weather, and lush rolling tea gardens in full bloom. The clear weather also offers a perfect view of the Kanchenjunga.

Top places to visit include Tiger Hill, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train), Batasia Loop, Peace Pagoda, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Happy Valley Tea Estate, Rock Garden and Ganga Maya Park.

For the adventurous, a trek to Sandakphu offers a delightful experience through a forest of rhododendrons. The lucky ones might also catch sight of the endangered and extremely elusive and shy red panda.

Darjeeling offers a plethora of options for travellers – shopping at the Chowrasta and the Mall Road, trying local cuisine at famous eateries and restaurants, visiting monasteries (Ghoom Monastery, Dali Monastery, Bhutia Basti Monastery, attending cultural shows hosted by the Lepcha and Nepali communities, and lastly, tasting the world famous Darjeeling Tea at the numerous kiosks and tea houses. One can also take a guided tour of the Happy Valley Tea Estate.

Festivals in Darjeeling during April include Ram Navami, Easter, and Buddha Jayanti. Ram Navami is a Hindu festival celebrated in early April with local processions and prayers in temples like Makal Temple. Easter is celebrated with church services and festive meals, while Buddha Jayanti holds special prayers and processions at the Japanese Peace Pagoda and local monasteries.

Wear comfortable walking shoes, carry a light jacket, and choose accommodation that offers a clear view of the mighty Kanchenjunga. Also, take care of altitude sickness.