Dreaming of a summer getaway that’s easy on your wallet but rich in experience? Then it’s time to skip the usual tourist trails and explore India’s untapped destinations. Even better, you can use your credit card rewards to get there. Yes, those points and miles you’ve been collecting aren’t just for online shopping; they can actually open doors to incredible travel experiences across India. For this reason, we’ve rounded up five offbeat destinations you can explore this summer without blowing your budget, simply by tapping into your credit card perks.
- Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh
Nestled in the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas, Ziro Valley offers wide green fields, pine forests and a cool summer climate. Besides its natural beauty, it’s a place where slow living and tribal culture still thrive. Many travel credit cards let you redeem points for flights to nearby airports like Itanagar, Lilabari or Dibrugarh. Additionally, booking your hotel or local transport through card partner apps may offer you cashback or extra benefits, such as room upgrades.
- Tirthan Valley, Himachal Pradesh
If you’re craving peace with a side of trout fishing and forest hikes, Tirthan Valley should be your choice. It’s less commercial, equally stunning and just as thrilling. Moreover, most cards offer cashback or rewards points on hotel bookings through partner platforms. Certain cards offer free night stays or complimentary upgrades, allowing you to enhance your trip without additional costs.
Just a short drive from Mussoorie lies the sleepy village of Kanatal. Next to apple orchards and quiet trails, it’s the perfect digital detox spot. Credit card reward points can help ease travel costs, whether it’s for rental cars, cozy homestays, or road trip essentials. With South Indian Bank credit cards, you also get a 1% fuel surcharge waiver across all petrol pumps, making long drives more affordable. That means less worrying about expenses and more time sipping chai with a view. Equally important, some travel credit cards also offer accidental insurance during travel, providing you with peace of mind.
Known as the wettest place on Earth, Mawsynram offers a cool, refreshing escape from scorching summer heat. With its misty hills, deep caves and endless green landscapes, it’s perfect for travelers looking to unplug and reconnect with nature. Moreover, the early summer months bring lush beauty without the peak monsoon downpours, making it ideal for exploration. Use your credit card reward points to book flights to Shillong and local stays. In addition, several travel cards provide perks like discounted eco-tourism packages or cashback on local bookings.
If you want the magic of Ladakh without the usual tourist rush, Hemis is your go-to. Equally appealing to nature lovers and culture seekers, Hemis is home to one of the oldest monasteries in the region, offering quiet and striking landscapes. Credit card travel portals often have partnerships with boutique hotels in Leh, allowing you to use your points for bookings and even adventure activities. And if your card offers airport lounge access? That’s a little luxury before the real adventure begins.
Final Thoughts
The best part? You don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy these getaways. With the right use of your credit card rewards, a little planning and an eye on ongoing offers, you can turn everyday spending into a well-deserved summer break. Many cards now offer added perks like flight discounts, hotel deals and even concierge support to make your travel seamless.
South Indian Bank’s credit cards, for instance, come with benefits like fuel surcharge waivers, welcome rewards and accelerated points on categories like dining, movies and groceries, making your summer travel even more rewarding. Just check your app or bank portal before you book—there’s often more available than you think.
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Disclaimer: The article is for information purpose only. The views expressed in this article are personal and do not necessarily constitute the views of The South Indian Bank Ltd. or its employees. The South Indian Bank Ltd and/or the author shall not be responsible for any direct/indirect loss or liability incurred by the reader for taking any financial/non-financial decisions based on the contents and information’s in the blog article. Please consult your financial advisor or the respective field expert before making any decisions.