8 Popular Indian Travel Destinations With AQI Below 50 (At Present)

After weeks of smog-filled skies and air purifiers working overtime, a breath of truly fresh air can feel like a luxury. Across India, pollution levels in major cities have spiked to alarming highs, but not every corner of the country is shrouded in haze. There are still pockets of pristine air, misty mornings, and landscapes that smell of pine, rain, and open fields. These are places where you can see stars at night and actually feel the breeze on your skin. These destinations aren't just easy on the lungs, they're a balm for the senses: quiet, scenic, and deeply restorative. Whether you're planning a long vacation or a quick weekend escape, heading to higher altitudes or greener valleys can be the best way to reset. Here are some of India's clean-air getaways that promise to help you breathe easy again:

8 Popular Indian Travel Destinations With Good Air Quality:

1. Ooty

Approx current AQI: 22

Ooty. Photo Credit: Unsplash

Cradled in Tamil Nadu's Nilgiri Hills, Ooty remains one of India's most soothing hill stations. It's a place where crisp air, misty mornings, and stretches of tea plantations invite you to slow down. Take a joyride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway as it winds past tunnels, forests, and bridges that seem straight out of an old film. Stroll through the beautifully landscaped Botanical Gardens or paddle a boat across the scenic Ooty Lake fringed by eucalyptus trees. Adventure-seekers can trek up to Doddabetta Peak for sweeping valley views, while quieter souls may prefer a walk around Avalanche Lake or the emerald tea estates of Coonoor nearby.

Also Read: 7 Wellness Retreats Near Delhi You'd Love To Visit For Fresh Air And Peace

2. Kodaikanal

Approx current AQI: 25

Kodaikanal. Photo Credit: Unsplash

Wrapped in cool mist and lush forests, Kodaikanal offers some of the cleanest, most soothing air in South India. The famous Kodaikanal Lake lies at the heart of the town, perfect for boating, cycling, or simply watching the fog drift over the water. Trails through Coaker's Walk and Bryant Park burst with blooms and valley views, while the Pillar Rocks and Silver Cascade Falls showcase nature's quiet grandeur. Adventure-seekers can explore the less-trodden Pine Forest or trek up to Dolphin's Nose for sweeping panoramas. Evenings here move at an unhurried pace, too. In every season, Kodaikanal feels like a fresh-air retreat where nature takes the lead.

3. Manali

Approx current AQI: 24

Manali. Photo Credit: Unsplash

Set along the Beas River in Himachal Pradesh, Manali's pine-scented air and snow-capped peaks make it a favourite mountain retreat. From exploring the apple orchards and ancient Hadimba Temple to lounging in the lively cafés of Old Manali, there's a lot to do for visitors. For thrill-seekers, Solang Valley offers paragliding, zorbing, and skiing in winter. Wander to the scenic Jogini Falls or take a day trip to Naggar Castle for stunning views of the valley below. Evenings by a riverside bonfire or a stroll through local markets filled with woollens and handicrafts complete the experience. In every sense, Manali's fresh, cool air feels like a tonic for the senses.

4. Nainital

Approx current AQI: 26

Nainital. Photo Credit: Unsplash

Tucked in the Kumaon hills of Uttarakhand, Nainital is built around a shimmering lake and ringed by pine and oak forests. Its crisp mountain air and picture-perfect scenery make it one of India's most peaceful hill getaways. Visitors can enjoy a lazy boat ride across Naini Lake, ride the cable car to Snow View Point, or hike up to Tiffin Top for panoramic views. The bustling Mall Road offers cosy cafés, bakeries, and souvenir shops, while the Naina Devi Temple adds a spiritual touch. With its old-world charm, mountain mist, and star-filled nights, Nainital feels like a timeless escape from smog and screens alike.

5. Srinagar

Approx current AQI: 24

Srinagar. Photo Credit: Unsplash

In the heart of Kashmir, Srinagar's beauty unfolds across glassy lakes, snowy peaks, and Mughal gardens that bloom with tulips and chinar trees. The city's cool, clean air carries the scent of saffron and pine, especially on misty mornings over Dal Lake. A shikara ride through its floating gardens or a stay in a traditional houseboat reveals the poetic calm that defines Srinagar. Visit the Mughal gardens of Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh, or head up to Pari Mahal for sweeping views of the city below. The old bazaars, filled with carpets, papier-mache crafts, and fragrant kehwa tea, offer a glimpse of Kashmiri artistry.

Also Read: 10 Indian Cities With The Cleanest Air: Breathe Easy, Travel Freely

6. Darjeeling

Approx current AQI: 15

Darjeeling. Photo Credit: Unsplash

High in the Eastern Himalayas, Darjeeling offers crisp mountain air, emerald tea gardens, and toy train whistles creating a rhythm all its own. The UNESCO-listed Darjeeling Himalayan Railway winds past slopes blanketed in mist, while sunrise at Tiger Hill turns Kanchenjunga's snowy peak to gold. Visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute or the Peace Pagoda for glimpses of adventure and calm side by side. In town, wander through Chowrasta's cosy cafés or browse for woollens and local teas. Don't miss a visit to a working tea estate for a tasting session amid the leaves. With its cool weather, British-era charm, and unhurried pace, Darjeeling feels like breathing in the mountains themselves.

7. Shillong

Approx current AQI: 16

Shillong. Photo Credit: Unsplash

Shillong is a patchwork of rolling hills, misty waterfalls, and a relaxed yet vibrant culture. The air here feels lighter, as if scented with pine and music drifting through the streets. Visit Elephant Falls and Sweet Falls to see nature in full motion, or hike to Shillong Peak for sweeping views of the city and its surrounding valleys. Ward's Lake and the lively Police Bazaar show the town's playful side, while nearby Laitlum Canyon offers one of the most breathtaking views in all of Meghalaya. The city's thriving cafe culture, love for live music, and friendly Khasi hospitality make every stroll memorable.

8. Gangtok

Approx current AQI: 20

Gangtok. Photo Credit: Unsplash

Perched high in the Himalayas, Gangtok combines clean air, mountain mysticism, and modern charm. The city's streets are spotless and lined with flowers, while MG Marg buzzes with cafés, boutiques, and mountain energy. Visit the Enchey and Rumtek monasteries to soak in spiritual calm, or take a day trip to the glacial Tsomgo Lake and the dramatic Nathula Pass. For panoramic views of Kanchenjunga, head to Tashi View Point or Hanuman Tok. The city's eco-conscious spirit shows in its ban on plastic and emphasis on sustainable tourism. Whether sipping butter tea in a quiet monastery courtyard or watching clouds drift over terraced hills, Gangtok offers a rare kind of Himalayan serenity.

Note: AQI can vary depending on time of day, and conditions may change quickly. The above scores are based on real-time data from aqi.in as of around 4 pm on November 12, 2025.