If you’re looking for a summer getaway, a trip to the mountains would be on your mind. But are you worried about the tourist influx at the most sought-after spots? Well, we can’t really help it, but your trip doesn’t necessarily have to be just about ticking off touristy places or for those gram worthy pictures. Everyone would like to beat the heat in the hills, but here’s how you can do it differently. We have a list of activities you can indulge in to make your trip to the mountain towns more experiential, to truly escape the usual and unwind in the coolest way!

Take a pottery class in Palampur

Picture from Andretta Pottery’s Instagram .

Immerse in ceramic art at the foothills of the Dhauladhar range at Andretta, the oldest pottery studio in India. Around 24 km from Palampur, the studio provides the best of nature and art. Spending some time here will take your mind off everything and give you the break you deserve. From a 15-minute session to a full guided tour, you can choose to spend time here according to your interest. There is also a 3-month long residential course for those who want to master the art form.

Timings: 10 am to 5 pm

Price: Rs 650 for a 45 minutes session

Go mountain biking in Sikkim

An exhilarating experience of rising to high-altitude mountain ranges can be a ride of a lifetime. Explore the unexplored trails at your own pace and comfort of the Gangtok district and beyond. Cycling in the mountains gives you a chance to admire nature as it is, in its pristine form. The best thing is that it allows you to be a responsible tourist by reducing your carbon footprint. It is definitely an experience you must add to your list for a meaningful escape. Check out Zostel Gangtok for an experiential stay which is a happening hub of backpackers and a go to place for the coolest gigs and musical nights in town. You might also meet like-minded travellers here who would accompany you on further adventures in Sikkim.

Go apple plucking at Mashobra Apple Orchards (Shimla)

Different from your usual wandering in the Himalayan mountain towns, explore the famous Shimla state apple orchards this summer. You can escape the touristy Shimla and still savour the juicy apples of the region in a quaint little town, Mashobra, which is just 10 km from Shimla. So, relish plucking your own apples this season in a scenic orchard. If you’re looking for places to stay in Mashobra, check out Zostel Homes Mashobra which is also surrounded by apple orchards, oaks, deodars and pines. You can indulge in fun indoor games here and head to the nearby machan (watchtower) for surreal views.

Timings: 10 am to 5 pm

Price: Free of cost

Try the giant swing in Rishikesh at Jumpin Heights

Picture from Jumpin Heights website.

You must be familiar with river rafting, bungee jumping and other adventure activities in Rishikesh. The latest addition to such thrilling activities in the yoga capital of the world is the giant swing. Unleash the adventure junkie in you and fly amidst the mountains the next time you are there. They follow standard safety measures, so sit back, relax and get ready for some adventure. If you’re looking for a stay, Zostel Plus Rishikesh, Mohan Chatti is quite close and has a picturesque waterfall nearby. The hostel also has a game room where you can try your hands on vintage games.

Timings: 9:30 am to 5:30 pm

Price: Rs 3,700 per person

PS: It will be shut during the monsoons

Dine at Snowglu - the world’s largest igloo restaurant in Gulmarg

Nestled in the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas in Gulmarg, this unique restaurant should be on your list if you’re looking for an out-of-the-box experience on your trip to Kashmir. Have a meal at this cosy and beautifully crafted igloo adorned with intricate ice sculptures. Inspired by a similar cafe in Switzerland, the concept has been brought to life on a larger scale in India. The menu at Snowglu is a delightful fusion of local Kashmiri cuisine and other mouthwatering delicacies. Don’t forget to add this to your Kashmir itinerary for a lifetime experience.

Timings: 10:30 am to 9 pm

Price: The booking price of Rs 1,000 to sit inside the igloo cafe, and prices of the dishes vary.

So, skip the ordinary and try out these unique experiences on your next trip to the mountains. For regular travel updates and unique experiences, follow us on Instagram and check out our channel on YouTube for informative videos.