A dash of greenery, cool breeze, and the earthy smell of rain; there’s no other season like monsoon. Who doesn’t love the rains? Monsoon brings out the best of several destinations making them our weekend favorites. We’ve compiled a list of places to visit in India during monsoon for you. If you’re planning for a short weekend break, these monsoon getaways are picture perfect.
Puducherry
The rare combination of French aesthetics, Indian culture, and spiritual lineage make Puducherry a destination par excellence. This beautiful town near Chennai comes alive with a bohemian vibe every holiday season. The old-world appeal with modern ambiance should definitely be on top of your holiday list this monsoon.
Places to visit in Puducherry: Auroville, Promenade beach, Paradise beach, White Town, Pondy Bazar.
Coorg
Located in the southernmost part of Karnataka lies the beautiful town of Coorg. Popularly known as the Scotland of India, Coorg is a trekking haven during monsoon and a favourite weekend getaway from Bengaluru and Chennai.
Places to visit in Coorg: Abbi falls, Madikeri, Coffee plantations, Dubare Elephant camp, Talakaveri Widlife Sanctuary.
Munnar
There’s nothing more beautiful than Kerala during Monsoon. Rains followed by interludes of sunshine and the cool air bringing in the aroma of fresh tea leaves, distinguish Kerala’s hill station Munnar from the rest of the monsoon getaways down south.
Places to visit in Munnar: Eravikulam National Park, Shikara ride in the Kundala Lake, Carmelagiri Elephant Park, Kolukkumalai Tea Plantation.
Malshej Ghat
The hills come alive along with the mighty, majestic waterfalls at Maharashtra’s Malshej Ghat. Dark clouds over rain-washed mountains attract travellers from Mumbai and Pune throughout monsoon.
Places to visit near Malshej Ghat: Harishchandragad and the Shivneri Fort.
Lonavala
Monsoon lovers from Mumbai and Pune visit Lonavala every monsoon. The are numerous waterfalls on the way to this hill station trend on Instagram every monsoon. Nestled in the Sahyadri mountains, Lonavala has several resorts, hotels, and theme parks.
Places to visit in Lonavala: Bhushi Dam, Tungarli lake, Lion’s Point, Karla Caves.
Goa
Monsoon is no longer an off-season period for Goa. This season perhaps is the best time to discover Goa beyond beaches. Trek up to the waterfalls, visit the beautiful churches and villages to experience the local life and their monsoon festivities. If you are planning to visit Goa during monsoon, expect some good discounts on hotel stays and local activities.
Places to visit in Goa: Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary, Dudhsagar falls, spice plantations.
Darjeeling
Nestled at the foothills of the Himalayas, Darjeeling resonates nostalgia. As you take the beautiful toy train ride and gaze of the window to look at the mighty Khangchendzonga, you are left nothing but speechless. When in Darjeeling, don’t forget to indulge in a plate of your favourite authentic Tibetan momos.
Places to visit in Darjeeling: Ghum Monastery, Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Padmaja Naidu Zoological Park, Peace Pagoda.
Bishnupur
A village of artistic brilliance, Bishnupur is known for its iconic terracotta temples and Baluchari sarees. The terracotta temples that are a fine example of the history of Bengal’s architecture come alive during monsoon in hues of bright red and orange.
Places to visit in Bishnupur: Shyamrai Temple, Rasmancha Temple, District Museum.
Mount Abu
A respite from the scorching summer heat, Mount Abu brings in a fresh vibe to Rajasthan during the monsoon season. Experience the bright side of nature along with authentic Rajasthani cuisine at this quaint hill station this season.
Places to visit in Mount Abu: Nakki lake, Dilwara Temple, Sunset point.
Kutch
When it rains, the land of Kutch flourishes with fresh water, greenery, and wildlife. The white desert emanates a diamond-like shine attracting travellers to the salt-filled expanse.
Places to visit in Kutch: Kalo Dungar and Dholavira.
Ranikhet
Uttarakhand’s during monsoon is picture-perfect. Blessed with stunning views of the Himalayas, Ranikhet is a trekking paradise.
Places to visit in Ranikhet: Valley of Flowers.
Shillong
Shillong experiences heavy rainfall during monsoon. Rain-washed hills, waterfalls, and lakes make Shillong for travellers from Kolkata and neighbouring states.
Places to visit in Shillong: Elephant falls, Shillong Peak, Umiam Lake, Sweet falls.