With rising pollution and increasing crowds at every next tourist destination, travelling has started becoming more of a chore than something we’d look forward to. Popular tourist destinations like Agra, Jaipur, Lonavala, Bengaluru, etc. are either jampacked with tourists or have started suffering from issues like pollution, and mismanagement of resources. While they still get many tourists, its high time to start looking for newer places that not only are soothing to the eyes but also cleaner, greener, and overall healthier. These cities not only rate superb on the air quality index but are also great tourist havens. For the next relaxing and enriching trip, make sure you consider this list of cities with best air quality in India.
Here are some cities with the lowest AQI in India that you can visit for some solace and relaxation
1. Imphal
Home to the world’s oldest polo ground, Manipur’s Imphal is one of the best when it comes to air quality index, and that it is full of surprises only makes it better. With rich culture, natural beauty, and much greenery everywhere, Imphal ranks high in the cities with the best air quality in the country and draws tourists from everywhere. Apart from the regular tourist attractions, an experience you cannot miss in Imphal is the Ima Keithel market which happens to be the only women’s market.
2. Kohima
Apart from its colonial history, and a hotspot for experiencing tribal cultures, Nagaland’s Kohima also has one of the lowest AQI in India. This quaint city has many museums that you can explore, and if music is what interests you, make sure you check out the Hornbill Music Festival held here every year. For adventure lovers, this city with one of the best air quality index rankings is also a gateway for trekking into the famed Dzukou Valley.
3. Kullu
One of the most beautiful places in Himachal Pradesh, Kullu is also one of the cities with best air quality in North India. It is also a great travel destination, no matter what kind of traveller you are. If culture is your thing, don’t forget to enjoy the Holi procession here, and for adventure lovers, there is always the option of going river rafting in the stunning Beas that flows nearby.
4. Munnar
Often known as Kashmir of South, Munnar will stun you with its crisp air, making its place on the air quality index pretty clear. The beautiful hill station is also a tourist magnet with great attractions like Matupetty Dam, Rose Garden, and Tea Museum, and easy access to other nearby locations like Athirapally Falls, and Eravikulum National Park. Don’t forget to enjoy the local chocolates made fresh on a small scale when you are in Munnar.
5. Mysuru
While Mysuru is a much bigger city in comparison to the aforementioned cities that feature on the air quality index, it quite matches their clean and green vibe easily. When visiting this city with one of the lowest AQI in India, you have so much to explore. Starting from the crown jewel, that is the Mysuru Palace, to the stunning Chamundeshwari Temple. The Palace is especially stunning during the 10-day Dasara festival, and the temple is famous for its arduous 1000-step climb. You can now also take a ropeway to get to the top.
6. Pahalgam
This beautiful destination in Kashmir needs no introduction. Quite famous for being a snow wonderland, Pagalgam with its great standing on the air quality index is just as amazing in the spring and summer seasons. The valley turns into a beautiful meadow of vibrant blooms, that makes for a sight like no other. Whether you visit Pahalgam when its white, or full of life in spring, this city easily has one of the best air quality in India.
7. Shillong
The capital of Meghalaya, Shillong is a city that needs to be experienced. With quaint lanes, stunning cafes, great local music culture, and a view that is unparalleled, this city in the North East is one of the best tourist destinations with low AQI in India. Shillong is also quite close to many other stunning places in Meghalaya you can visit for a respite from the hustle and bustle of city life, like Mawsynram.
8. Coorg
Often called the Scotland of India for its resemblance to the scenic country, it is no surprise that Coorg makes it to the list of cities with best air quality in India. It is also a great travel destination. Whether you are visiting the waterfalls, visiting coffee plantations, or exploring the local cuisine, Coorg is sure to steal your heart.