Diwali has left behind more than just lights and joy this year — it has also brought a layer of pollution that’s making the air across many Indian cities hard to breathe. As winter sets in, fog and smoke are mixing to form smog, and air quality levels are worsening. Delhi’s AQI is at a dangerous 357, and Gurugram’s is 325. Mumbai, however, is doing better with an AQI of 98.
But not all cities are struggling. As of 9am on November 7, data from aqi.in shows there are still places in India where the air is clean and refreshing. Here are the 5 cities with AQI under 50 right now:
1. Darjeeling, West Bengal — AQI: 22
Darjeeling’s cool mountain air smells of tea leaves and pine. Start your morning on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, watching the fog roll over rooftops. Take a peaceful walk through the tea gardens, then stop by Glenary’s for coffee and cake. For a magical sunrise view, head to Tiger Hill to see Kanchenjunga glowing golden.
2. Shillong, Meghalaya — AQI: 26
Shillong’s air is crisp and pine-scented. Walk around Ward’s Lake, or explore Laitumkhrah for cozy cafés and local Khasi food. Drive to Shillong Peak for misty city views, and visit the Don Bosco Museum to learn about the Northeast’s rich culture — all while breathing clean, fresh air.
3. Guwahati, Assam — AQI: 42
In Guwahati, mornings by Dipor Bil or Chandubi Lake feel calm and refreshing. Visit the famous Kamakhya Temple for peace and blessings, and explore the Assam State Museum to learn about local history. Later, relax in Nehru Park, surrounded by sculptures and shady trees.
4. Gangtok, Sikkim — AQI: 44
Gangtok’s cool mountain air is some of the cleanest in India. Visit Enchey Monastery, stroll along MG Marg, and stop at the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology to explore Sikkim’s Buddhist culture. For stunning views of Kanchenjunga, head to Tashi View Point.
5. Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala — AQI: 47
Thiruvananthapuram’s clean coastal breeze makes the city feel fresh and peaceful. Visit the grand Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, enjoy a traditional Keralan meal at Villa Maya, and unwind at Kovalam Beach during sunset. End your day exploring local art at Kanakakunnu Palace or the Napier Museum gardens.
Even as smog fills many Indian cities after Diwali, these five places offer something rare — clean, cool, and breathable air.
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