Rains– the very image of which conjure thoughts of wet earth, dark grey skies, cool breezes, dancing peacocks, soothing greenery and cups of hot tea with fitters and Maggie has always held a special place among those love the monsoon season. A time to relax and celebrate life, there are many who consider monsoons in India as the best time to visit some of the most picturesque destinations of the country.
Below are some of Top 15 places to visit in India during monsoons
Goa- A around the year destination, Goa has always been a firm favorite with young and old alike. You can hire a scooter and enjoy a drive in the rains, take a walk on the beaches, go on a trek to the mighty Dudhsagar falls and better still enjoy a rain dance while indulging in its seafood delicacies. A word of caution though- avoid water activities especially when it’s raining hard.
Orchha – Often shadowed by its more popular cousin –Khajuraho, Orchha located on the banks of the River Betwa is the place to be during the monsoons. The best way to enjoy this town of forts and temples during the monsoon is to enjoy a hot cup of beverage while watching the silver liquid drops.
Lonavala – A popularweekend gateway from Mumbai and Pune, Lonavala looks like fairyland during the monsoons. Besides visiting the Bushi Dam waterfall, the Karla caves and trekking up to the tiger point, the best way to enjoy the rains have a hot beverage along with a “butta” (maize)
Mahabaleshwar – The Queen of Hill Stations in Maharashtra, Mahabaleshwar is one of the popular places to visit in monsoons. The drive along the Western Ghats itself is very scenic with lush greenery all around and a perpetual mist. While camping is a strict no-no, you can however go boating at the lake, visit the waterfalls and if possible go on a trek on its numerous trails.
Udaipur – a romantic city with a royal heritage, Udaipur has been popular with both families and honeymooners alike all due to its pleasant climate which goes up a notch during the monsoons. The city looks beautiful under the grey clouds, the landscape lot greener and cool breeze makes sightseeing and boating on the lakes more comfortable.
Rann of Kutch – If you don’t mind the occasional showers, the Rann of Kutch is one of the best destinations in Gujarat to visit during the monsoons.Though you may not get a chance to see the Rann of Kutch festival, the region’s white deserts, beautiful virgin sea beaches, Dholavira (an Indus valley site) and the wild ass sanctuary more or less compensates for it. A not to miss sight during the monsoon is its shallow wetlands which gets submerged during monsoons and dries up during the remaining seasons.
Spiti Valley- a region that receives little rain, Spiti valley is a haven for adventurer’s lovers. A great place for activities like trekking, rock climbing, mountain biking, rappelling, camping etc, the tranquility and pleasant weather will have you visiting the place again and again. Spiti valley is also known for its monasteries, snow capped peaks and breathtaking natural beauty.
Ranikhet- A charming hill station and cantonment area, Ranikhet is one of the most beautiful destinations in Uttarakhand that looks even lovelier after fresh showers. From numerous temples to lakes to gardens to various orchards, you can also get some great views of the Himalayas.
Pondicherry – This French enclave on the eastern coast of India looks breathtaking during the rains. A drive or cycle along the beach or through its myriad lanes will leave you speechless as you make your way under the rains discovering the rich French, Portuguese and Tamil history and culture evident in its colonial building, bakeries and much more.
Shillong –The ‘abode of the clouds’, a visit to Shillong is a must during the monsoons. One of the wettest destinations in the world, you will be rendered speechless by its natural scenery, gushing waterfalls and crystal clear lakes.
Darjeeling – Though the city receives heavy showers during the monsoons, the mesmerizing surroundings of the hill station, tea plantations and British architecture makes Darjeeling one the most visited hill stations in the east.
Alleppey – There is something romantic about a boat ride on the backwaters of Alleppey especially during the rains. And it’s a must do activity that should be in the bucket list of every couple.
Coorg – For a nature, coffee and monsoon lover, Coorg is a must visit destination. The hill station looks beautiful after a morning shower and guests can enjoy several activities like picnic, boating and hiking. The Irpu, Abbi, Mallalli, Chingara and Cheluvara waterfalls are not to be missed as also the Pushpagiri wildlife sanctuary and the Jog falls.
Munnar – This popular hill station of Kerala looks heavenly during the rains. One can enjoy taking a walk in its numerous tea and coffee estates, trek to the Anamudi peak to look for exotic wildlife and enjoy a picnic at the Devikulam Lake & Attukal waterfalls.
Andamans – Another around the year destination, what makes the island popular monsoon destinations are its white sand beaches, lush tropical vegetation and the deep blue sea. While a few water sorts may be prohibited, you can still go a trek to Mount Harriet, take a walk on its sandy beaches or better still enjoy the rains from the rooms of your resorts.
It’s magical to see dry lands turn to lush greenery and water bodies filled to the brim during the rains. Reach out to Swosti Travels to plan your monsoon vacation in India.
