Your Guide to Clean-Air Travel in India
In today’s world, finding places with truly fresh and clean air can feel like a luxury — especially for those living in big cities. Pollution levels often fluctuate, and during certain seasons, many destinations become hazy and dusty. But the good news? India still has several beautiful travel spots that consistently record an AQI below 50, which means the air is clean, crisp, and healthy.
If you’re planning your next holiday and want a destination where your lungs can relax too, here are eight amazing places in India with clean air right now.
1. Munnar, Kerala – Breathe Fresh in the Western Ghats
If there’s one place where nature feels untouched, it’s Munnar. Surrounded by endless tea gardens, misty hills, and cool winds, Munnar is known for its clean and refreshing air. The lush greenery and high altitude help maintain an AQI well below 50.
What to do here?
- Visit Kolukkumalai for a magical sunrise
- Explore tea estates
- Enjoy boating at Mattupetty Dam
- Trek through Eravikulam National Park
Munnar is ideal if you want peace, greenery, and pure air — all in one place.
2. Coorg, Karnataka – The Scotland of India
Coorg (or Kodagu) is one of the most scenic hill stations in South India. With coffee plantations, forest valleys, and zero industrial activity, the air remains fresh and clean throughout the year. AQI often stays in the “good” range.
Must-visit spots:
- Abbey Falls
- Raja’s Seat
- Coffee plantations
- Namdroling Monastery
If you’re looking for a calm, green, and charming destination close to Bangalore, Coorg is perfect.
3. Aizawl, Mizoram – A Clean & Serene Capital City
Among India’s capital cities, Aizawl stands out for being exceptionally clean. Spread across hills and surrounded by pine forests, the city offers fresh air, pollution-free roads, and stunning sunset views.
Don’t miss:
- Durtlang Hills
- Mizoram State Museum
- Local markets
- Traditional cuisine
Aizawl is great for culture lovers, photographers, and travellers who want a peaceful break.
4. Coonoor, Tamil Nadu – A Quiet Escape in the Nilgiris
Coonoor is often overshadowed by its famous neighbour Ooty — but that’s exactly why it’s quieter, cleaner, and more relaxing. With beautiful viewpoints, tea gardens, and cool weather, Coonoor maintains low pollution levels and AQI under 50.
Things to do:
- Visit Sim’s Park
- Enjoy the view at Dolphin’s Nose
- Take a toy-train ride to Ooty
- Explore tea factories
A perfect destination for slow travellers and nature lovers.
5. Shillong, Meghalaya – The Abode of Clouds
Shillong’s charm is something you must experience at least once. Surrounded by pine trees, waterfalls, and scenic hills, this Northeast beauty often reports excellent air quality.
Top attractions:
- Umiam Lake
- Laitlum Canyons
- Elephant Falls
- Police Bazar
- Shillong Peak
The cool breeze, green landscapes, and fresh mountain air make Shillong the ideal “breath of fresh air” destination.
6. Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh – Untouched Himalayan Escape
If you’re dreaming of rugged mountains, apple orchards, and clean Himalayan air, Kinnaur is perfect. It is far from crowded tourist spots and maintains AQI around or below 50 almost all year.
Best places to see:
- Sangla Valley
- Chitkul (Last village of India)
- Kalpa
- Kinner Kailash viewpoints
Kinnaur is ideal for travellers who love nature, silence, and the magic of the mountains.
7. Pelling, Sikkim – Breathtaking Views of Kanchenjunga
One of the most peaceful hill stations in India, Pelling offers mesmerizing views of the Kanchenjunga range. Thanks to dense forests and low traffic, its AQI stays low and fresh.
Highlights include:
- Sky Walk
- Pemayangtse Monastery
- Rabdentse Ruins
- Khecheopalri Lake
If you enjoy spiritual places and mountain scenery, Pelling will win your heart.
8. Gokarna, Karnataka – Clean Beaches & Fresh Sea Breeze
Love beaches but want to avoid crowded Goa? Then Gokarna is your spot. With clean beaches, coastal winds, and low pollution levels, the AQI here often stays under 50.
Popular attractions:
- Om Beach
- Kudle Beach
- Paradise Beach
- Mahabaleshwar Temple
Whether you’re into yoga, water sports, or simply relaxing by the ocean, Gokarna offers a pollution-free beach holiday.
Why These Places Have Better Air Quality
These destinations naturally maintain a low AQI because of:
- Dense forests and natural landscapes
- High altitudes
- Low traffic and industrial pollution
- Coastal winds (in beach towns)
- Eco-friendly tourism practices (especially in the Northeast and Sikkim)
This makes them perfect for health-conscious travellers and families.
Conclusion
Finding clean-air travel destinations in India may seem difficult, but these eight places prove that nature still thrives beautifully across the country. Whether you love hills, beaches, forests, or culture-rich towns, each destination here offers something unique — along with the most important thing: pure air to breathe.
If you’re planning your next quick trip, choose a place where the journey heals both your mind and your breath.
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