Monsoons in India are a true celebration of life and rejuvenation. There is no need to stay indoors all the time. It is the perfect time to experience the beauty, the lush greenery and forces of nature. This is also a great time to enjoy the benefits of good deals and discounts on hotels and flights.
Places to visit for a monsoon vacation in India.
Udaipur, Rajasthan
When you think of Rajasthan, the picture that comes to mind is of dry and arid deserts. However, the beauty of Rajasthan in the monsoon is unparalleled. The countryside is washed clean of the summer dust and replenished with greenery. The “City of Lakes”, Udaipur is the perfect destination to witness the beauty of monsoon season in India.
Trek to the Monsoon Palace for stunning views of the city spread below and the lakes brimming with water. Stay put in Udaipur or head to Kumbhalgarh for a delightful monsoon itinerary.
How to Reach: Udaipur is well connected by rail, roads, and air.
Goa
You might think that Goa is an odd choice to visit in monsoon season. However, there is a different kind of beauty to this beach destination during this time. The rain drizzling on the sandy shores and moody skies make for perfect Instagram photos. The scenery is bathed in green and its is a great time to relax and relish the Goan cuisine.
Visit the Aguada Fort, or the Dudhsagar Falls that is in full force during this time. You can also choose to simply relax in the beach and experience the picturesque settings.
How to Reach: Goa is easy to reach by air, road and rail from all major cities in India.
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Coorg, Karnataka
The rich aroma of coffee plantations, the rolling misty hills, the cool climate, and delicious Coorgi cuisine are some of the top reasons to travel to Coorg in the monsoon. There is a variety of exotic flora and fauna which makes this place a must visit. This is an ideal destination for nature lovers and those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Visit the Jog Falls which is the second highest waterfall in India, and you might just catch a beautiful rainbow. Trek through the verdant paths or simply languish in the lap of nature.
How to Reach: Coorg is approximately 5 hours drive from Bengaluru. Nearest airport is Mysore (120 kms), Mangalore (135 kms) or Bengaluru (260 kms). The nearest railway stations are at Mysore, Mangalore and Hassan.
Cherrapunji, Meghalaya
The raw beauty of the second rainiest place on the Earth is something you need to see to believe. Known as the “Scotland of the East”, Cherrapunji is a spectacular place to visit in India during monsoon. The emerald green grass grows abundantly, and a fine mist envelops you like a blanket. It is like stepping into a place where time stands still.
Visit the waterfalls that are swollen with the monsoon rains, the Nokhalikai Falls being the most picturesque. Explore the famous living roots bridge and caves or enjoy the greenery.
How to Reach: Shillong (approximately 80 kms) is the closest airport and Guwahati (150 kms) is the nearest railway station.
Munnar, Kerala
God’s Own Country is resplendent with natural beauty in the monsoon months and you must visit Munnar to experience it yourself. The vast rolling tea gardens, the gossamer mist, pleasant weather, and romantic weather makes it the perfect monsoon getaway destination.
Spot some exotic wildlife at the highest peak of the Western Ghats, Anamudi, visit waterfalls or walk amidst natural splendor and soak in the fresh air.
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How to Reach: It is approximately 4 hours’ drive from Kochi (130 kms). The nearest railway stations are at Ernakulam and Aluva, two major cities of Kerala. Madurai (140 kms) and Kochi (110 kms) are the nearest airports.
Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir
The best time to explore the mountains of Ladakh is during the Ladakh Festival in September. It’s an amazing experience with colorful shows and interesting programs. With the sparkling lakes, magnificent mountain passes and spectacular panoramic views, Ladkah must be on your monsoon destinations list this year.
Visit the crystal clear Pangong lake, take bike rides across the cold desert, seek blessings of the monks at Thiksey and experience the vibrant Ladakh Festival. Walk around the quaint villages and interact with the locals.
How to Reach: From Delhi (1262 kms) it is approximately 12 hours by road. The nearest airport is Leh and the nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi.
Pondicherry, Tamil Nadu
This tranquil city in Tamil Nadu is a picture-perfect destination that is dotted with old French houses, cobbled streets, cafes and bars located at the sea front. It is also home to the famous Auroville founded by the ascetic Aurobindo. The drizzling rains add a new element to the romantic city, and you find yourself lured into its old-world charm.
Visit Auroville to experience peace and tranquility, visit a French café to try the mouthwatering pastry, or simply take a walk along the rain-soaked beaches.
How to Reach: The nearest airport is Chennai which is approximately 2 hours away. The closest railway station is Villupuram (35 kms).
Orchha, Madhya Pradesh
The heart of India is abounding with history and natural splendor and one of the best times to explore this part is during the monsoons. Orchha, established by Raja Rudra Pratap in 1501 has one of the most iconic skylines in India. The intricately carved temples set on the shores of the Betwa River is an ideal destination for history buffs and photographers.
Visit the Jahangir Palace, cenotaphs on the riverside, temples and forts and take back a slice of history. You can also visit the custard apple orchards which are filled with the aroma of ripe fruits at this time.
How to Reach: Jhansi (20 kms) is the nearest railway station.
Darjeeling, West Bengal
The “Queen of Hills” is a perfect place to visit during the monsoon season. The climate is pleasant, and the surrounding mountains play a delightful game of hide and seek. The clouds envelop you as you walk along the Mall Road or chug along the heritage Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.
There are many monasteries including the Ghoom Monastery to visit and experience peace and quiet. You can also visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, the Zoological Park, or one of the many tea estates of the region.
How to Reach: The nearest airport is Bagdogra (95 kms) and the nearest railway stations are Siliguri and New Jalpaiguri.
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Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
This scenic hill station nestled in the foothills of the Garhwal Himalayan range was once a favorite summer retreat for the British. Today it is one of the most popular tourist destinations for couples, families and youngsters. The beautiful scenery, flora and fauna make this a perfect destination for a monsoon vacation in India.
Visit the Lal Tibba and wonder at the spectacular views stretching out before you or visit the Kempty Falls. You can also see India’s first Tibetan Temple at Happy Valley. There are also places to buy amazing hand-woven silk and pashmina shawls, scarves and stoles.
How to Reach: It is 295 kms away from Delhi and a comfortable drive. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant in Dehradun (54 kms). It is also well connected by trains from Delhi.
So, pack your bags and grab your umbrellas and head out for a mesmerizing monsoon vacation this year!