7 Best Places to Visit in Monsoon in India

Introduction

India is a country where monsoon raindrops dance with greenery, where the sweetness of nature blends seamlessly with the rhythm of monsoon rains. For these reasons, the monsoon season in India brings a magical change in the landscape, which is a cause of attraction for every tourist.

Many people do not like to travel during monsoons in India. But there are several places, which are the best places to visit in monsoon in India. From the lush greenery to the gushing waterfalls to the chirping of birds, these are the places that make you feel like heaven during the monsoons. Moreover, monsoon also provides relief from the scorching heat of summer.

From mist-covered mountains to ancient ruins surrounded by emerald forests during monsoons in India, the scent of wet earth, vibrant landscapes, and cascading waterfalls create an irresistible attraction.

You are thinking of planning a trip during monsoons. Here you will find information about the best places to visit in monsoon in India. So that you get an idea of where you want to go.

(Note: Before you plan your trip during the monsoon, it is essential to get information about the weather forecast of where you want to go and at what time. And even during your trip, you should be aware of the weather forecast so that you don’t face any hurdles during your journey.)

Let’s find out, 7 best places to visit in monsoon in India

Place 1: Munnar, Kerala 

Place 2: Goa

Place 3: Coorg, Karnataka 

Place 4: Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

Place 5: Shillong, Meghalaya

Place 6: Udaipur, Rajasthan

Place 7: Darjeeling, West Bengal

Place 1: Munnar, Kerala

Munnar is situated in Kerala and is a well-known paradise of Kerala. Nestled amidst the Western Ghats in Kerala, Munnar is a picturesque hill station that transforms into a fascinating wonder during the monsoons. With its lush green tea gardens, mist-covered mountains, waterfalls, and rejuvenating weather, Munnar becomes a popular destination for every traveler seeking tranquility and natural beauty.

As the rain falls, Munnar takes on a new avatar. The hills and valleys come alive with vibrant shades of green, painting a surreal picture that leaves you awestruck.

Things to do in Munnar in Monsoon

Tea gardens and plantations: Munnar is known for its vast tea plantations, and monsoons add extra charm to this green carpet. Spend a day exploring the tea gardens, interacting with a local tea owner, and learning about the tea production process. Consider visiting tea museums for the history associated with tea.

Enchanting waterfalls of Munnar: During the monsoons, the magnificent waterfalls of Munnar come alive, adding to the sanity of Munnar. Munnar is home to several scenic waterfalls, the most famous and popular of which are the Attukad Waterfalls, Lakkam Waterfalls, and Nyayamakad Waterfalls. Where you can see beautiful views of the water flowing through the rocky terrain.

Spectacular Top Station: For an amazing panoramic view, head to the top station. Situated at an altitude of about 1,700 meters, this vantage point offers an unparalleled view of the Western Ghats and the neighboring state of Tamil Nadu. The distant view of mist-clad mountains, rolling valleys, and Nilgiri hills creates a magical atmosphere.

Mattupetti Dam and Lake: This scenic spot offers a serene environment and a breathtaking view of the surrounding hills. Take a boat ride on the serene lake, enjoy the tranquility, and witness the natural beauty. If you’re lucky, you might spot some elephants or other wildlife along the banks, making your experience even more memorable.

Eravikulam National Park: Munnar is as well known for its natural scenery as it is for its wildlife. Munnar has an Eravikulam National Park known for the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Wildlife spotting amid mist-covered hills and rain-soaked forests is an experience that will leave you mesmerized.

Ayurvedic Rejuvenation: Monsoon is considered an ideal time for rejuvenation and Ayurvedic treatments. Munnar is famous for its Ayurvedic wellness centers and spas. You may consider indulging in relaxing massages, herbal baths and traditional Ayurvedic treatments that will rejuvenate your mind, body and soul.

How to reach munnar

By Air: The nearest airport to Munnar is Cochin International Airport, which is about 110 km away. From the airport you can take a taxi or bus to Munnar.

By Train: The nearest major railway stations from Munnar are Aluva, Coimbatore and Ernakulam railway stations. Which is connected with all other cities of India.

By Road: State Transport Buses (KSRTC) and private buses run regular services to Munnar from major cities of Kerala, including Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram and Kottayam.

Place 2: Goa.

Goa, a vibrant coastal city on India’s west coast, is famous for its delightful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and laid-back charm. So Goa is good for every season, but Goa flourishes during the monsoon season. With lush green landscapes, roaring waterfalls, and a refreshing atmosphere, Goa in the monsoons offers a unique and enchanting experience for travelers seeking tranquility and natural beauty.

The monsoon season in Goa starts around June and lasts till September, transforming the region into a verdant paradise. The countryside comes alive with blooming flowers, cascading springs, and flowing rivers. You must explore the scenic beauty of the Goan countryside to take advantage of this mesmerizing beauty.

Things to do in Goa in Monsoon

Exploring Calm Beaches: While monsoons bring strong currents to the ocean, Goa has many beaches that remain accessible. Although swimming is not advisable due to strong currents, you can take a leisurely walk along the beach and feel the misty sea breeze. Additionally, if it doesn’t rain, you can try your hand at activities like jet skiing, parasailing and banana boat rides.

Dudhsagar Falls: One of the main attractions during the monsoon season in Goa is the awe-inspiring Dudhsagar Falls. Located on the border of Goa and Karnataka, this magnificent four-tiered waterfall is a sight to behold. The milky-white waters, surrounded by lush greenery, create a breathtaking spectacle. Accessible via a thrilling jeep safari or a scenic train journey, Dudhsagar Waterfall offers an exhilarating experience.

Goa’s Colonial Heritage: Goa is a treasure trove of history and culture. The rainy season offers an excellent opportunity to explore Goa’s rich history and architectural wonders. Visit Old Goa’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Basilica of Bom Jesus and the Se Cathedral, which reflect the region’s Portuguese influence.

Delicious Goan Cuisine: Goan cuisine is a delicious blend of Indian and Portuguese flavors. Savor hot bhaji-pao (vegetable curry with bread) or enjoy a traditional Goan fish curry with fragrant rice. Be sure to try drinks like the crispy prawn cutlets or the refreshing Fani (a local alcoholic drink made from cashew or coconut).

Apart from this, you can visit other attractions of Goa such as Sinkerim Fort, Tambadi Surla Temple, Molem National Park, Aguada Fort, Dolphin Show, and Chapora Fort.

How to reach Goa

By Air: Goa has its own Goa International Airport, also known as Dabolim Airport. It is well connected to major cities in India and also has some international flights.

By Train: Goa has several railway stations, the main one being Madgaon (also known as Margo). Many trains from different parts of India have a stop at Madgaon.

By Road: National Highways NH 48, NH 66 and National Highway 4A are the main highways connecting Goa with neighboring states. A Mumbai to Goa road trip during monsoons is priceless as you can enjoy scenic views along the way.

Place 3: Coorg, Karnataka

Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is an attractive hill station located in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, India. Famous for its lush green landscapes, mist-covered hills, cascading waterfalls and fragrant coffee plantations, Coorg becomes an enchanting paradise during the monsoon season. With rain-soaked terrains and rejuvenated vegetation, Coorg presents a unique charm that lures tourists from across the globe.

Things to do in Coorg in Monsoon

Explore the Majestic Waterfalls of Coorg: Coorg is home to several magnificent waterfalls that come alive during monsoons. Abbey Falls near Madikeri is a popular attraction known for its exquisite beauty. Another mesmerizing waterfall is Irupu Falls in the Brahmagiri range.

Captivating Wildlife Sanctuaries: Coorg is home to several wildlife sanctuaries which become more attractive during the monsoons. Nagarhole National Park and Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary are the most famous sanctuaries in Coorg. Here you can see elephants, deer, leopards and different species of exotic birds.

Exciting adventure activities: For thrill-seekers, Coorg offers numerous adventure activities that are even more fun during monsoons. Coorg’s famous adventure is river rafting. White-water rafting in the rushing waters of the Barapole River offers a rewarding experience. If you are a trekking enthusiast, you can go to the peak of Tadiandamol, the highest mountain in Coorg. The misty atmosphere and cool monsoon breeze will help boost your appetite.

Coffee plantations and aromatic delights: Coorg is known for its coffee plantations, and visiting these lush green gardens during your monsoon trip is a special experience. Don’t forget to sip some freshly brewed coffee. Many plantations offer guided tours where you can learn about the techniques from growing coffee to harvesting.

Relaxing in charming homestays of Coorg: There are many charming homestays in Coorg, which give you a chance to relax in the open of nature. Nestled amidst coffee estates and lush greenery, this cozy accommodation offers the perfect blend of comfort and tranquility.

Other attractions in Coorg besides this, visit the Namdroling Math. It is the largest Tibetan settlement in South India and offers an exquisite glimpse of its culture with its gold-painted temples and bright lanterns. Visit the charming Dubere Elephant Camp, where you can interact with the elephants. Madikeri Fort, the fort dates back to the 17th century and is now a converted museum.

How to reach Coorg

By Air: The nearest airport to Coorg is Mangalore International Airport, which is about 160 km away. Another nearby airport is Campegowda International Airport (BLR) in Bangalore, from where the distance to Coorg is about 260 km. From here you can reach Coorg by bus.

By Train: The nearest railway station is Mysore Junction, which is about 95 km away. From there you can take a taxi or bus to Coorg.

By Road: If traveling from major cities near Coorg, you can get a bus. On the way you get a beautiful view of natural beauty.

Place 4: Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

Kodaikanal, often referred to as the “Princess of Hill Stations”, is a charming hill town located amidst the Western Ghats of Tamil Nadu, India. This charming hill town is the perfect destination for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse themselves in nature. During the monsoon season, Kodaikanal transforms into a lush, green paradise, with misty mountains, gushing waterfalls, and plenty of opportunities for adventure.

Things to do in Kodaikanal in Monsoon

Cocker’s Walk: One of the most popular attractions in Kodaikanal is the Cocker’s Walk. It is a one-kilometer paved road that offers spectacular views of the valleys and surrounding hills. This place is also suitable for photography.

Pillar Rocks: This is a natural rock formation, a group of three granite boulders standing at a height of about 400 feet. This place is one of the most popular attractions of Kodaikanal. The misty atmosphere during monsoons adds a spectacular touch to the entire scene.

Kurinji Andavar Temple and Bryant Park: Kodaikanal has beautiful temples and gardens that offer a sense of tranquility amidst nature. Kurinji Andavar Temple, dedicated to Lord Murugan, offers scenic views of valleys and hills. Bryant Park, a beautifully manicured botanical garden that is home to a variety of flora.

Enchanting Falls: Monsoon is the best time to see the enchanting waterfalls in Kodaikanal as they flow in full force. Silver Cascade Falls, Bear Shola Falls and Ferry Falls are popular attractions. The rushing water with the misty atmosphere creates an atmosphere of serenity and beauty that is truly unforgettable.

Trekking Adventures: For adventure enthusiasts, monsoons are the best time to go trekking in Kodaikanal. The weather is pleasantly cool, and the forests come alive with the sounds of nature. Trekking trails like Dolphin’s Nose, Vattakanal Falls and Perumal Peak offer thrilling experiences, as those trekking trails pass through dense forests, valleys and grasslands.

Boating in the fog: Kodaikanal has a man-made lake called Kodai, which is an iconic attraction in the heart of the city. Boating in Kodai Lake amid the fog is a once in a lifetime experience. The stillness of the water and the chirping of birds around create a melody that soothes the soul and delights the green eyes around the lake. A paddleboat ride in the monsoons is one thing that should not be missed.

Berijam Lake and Bison Wells: These quiet and secluded spots are located away from the bustling tourist areas, offering a peaceful retreat amidst misty mountains. If you have come with your beloved partner then definitely consider visiting this place.

Culinary delights: While exploring Kodaikanal, don’t miss the opportunity to taste the local cuisine. Kodaikanal has its unique offerings. During the monsoons, you can savor hot pakoras, steaming cups of filter coffee and traditional South Indian dishes like idli and dosa. The region is known for its homemade chocolates, you must try them.

How to reach Kodaikanal

By Air: The nearest airport to Kodaikanal is Madurai Airport (IXM), which is about 120 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Kodaikanal.

By Train: The nearest major railway station to Kodaikanal is Kodai Road Railway Station (KQN), which is about 80 kilometers from Kodaikanal. You can take taxi or local bus to reach Kodaikanal.

By Road: Kodaikanal is well connected by road to major cities and towns in South India. Regular bus services run to Kodaikanal from cities like Madurai, Coimbatore, Bangalore, Chennai and Trichy.

Place 5: Shillong, Meghalaya

Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya, is a picturesque paradise nestled among the enchanting hills in Northeast India. It is famous for its attractive landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and pleasant weather. Known as the “Scotland of the East”, Shillong has charm throughout the year, but the monsoon season imbues the city with a mystical charm that is truly unparalleled. Rain-soaked hills, vibrant greenery, and cascading waterfalls are all the more attractive during monsoons.

Things to do in Shillong in Monsoon

Embracing Nature’s Splendor: Monsoons lend unparalleled charm to Shillong’s natural landscapes. Leitlum Canyons is one of the most beautiful canyons in Shillong, from where you will get stunning views of lush green valleys and hills. Another place is Shillong Peak, which gives you a panoramic view of the city. The scenery is breathtakingly beautiful and especially during monsoons, it offers a spectacular view of the clouds.

Enchanting Waterfalls: Shillong is famous for its magnificent waterfalls, and monsoons multiply its beauty. Don’t miss the iconic Elephant Falls, one of the most visited waterfalls in Shillong. The surrounding greenery and the mist from the falls make Elephant Falls a paradise. Another waterfall, the Nohkalikai Falls, one of the highest plunging waterfalls in India, cascades down from a height of over 1,100 feet and presents a breathtaking sight.

Umiam Lake: One of the unique attractions of Shillong which looks almost magical during monsoons. The serene silence, beauty, and serenity of a lake can be a perfect way to relax and rejuvenate.

Explore the local culture: The city is home to various indigenous tribes, and their traditions and festivals come alive during the monsoon season. Don’t miss the hustle and bustle of festivals like Behdienkhalam and Wangala, where locals showcase their colorful traditional costumes, lively dance, and melodious music.

Exploring Living Root Bridges: One of the unique attractions near Shillong is the living root bridges at Cherrapunji and Mawlinong. This extraordinary bridge is constructed by connecting the aerial roots of ancient rubber fig trees, creating a natural wonder.

Trekking and Adventure: Shillong and its surrounding areas offer excellent opportunities for trekking and adventure activities during the monsoons. The hills and valleys come alive with gushing streams and pristine lakes, offering exciting options like trekking on the double-decker Living Root Bridge or boating in Umiam Lake. Go for waterfall rappelling at Elephant Falls, an adventurous experience.

How to reach Shillong

By Air: The nearest airport to Shillong is Shillong Airport, also known as Umroi Airport. It is located about 40 kilometers from the city.

By Train: The nearest major railway station to Shillong is Guwahati railway station in Assam, which is connected to Samarg Bharat. The railway station is about 100 km from Shillong.

By Road: Shillong is well connected by road, and you can reach the city by bus, taxi or private vehicle. National Highway 6 (NH6) connects Shillong to Guwahati, which is about 100 kilometers away.

Place 6: Udaipur, Rajasthan

Udaipur, known as the “Venice of the East” and the “City of Lakes”, is located in central Rajasthan and is one of India’s most popular destinations. Udaipur has a unique charm, which sets it apart from other cities. The city is steeped in history, dating back to the Rajputana era. The city’s rich history and cultural heritage make for an enchanting experience. Glistening lakes, lush greenery, and beautiful architecture come alive during the rains. Notable historical landmarks include the City Palace and the Monsoon Palace, which offer a glimpse of the grandeur of the city.

Things to do in Udaipur in Monsoon

Grand Palaces: What sets Udaipur apart from the rest are its grand palaces, which reflect the city’s royal heritage. The monsoon season adds a unique charm to these structures, as the marble facades take on a new charm with the glistening rainwater. The most iconic palace of Udaipur is the City Palace. Located on the banks of Lake Pichola, the City Palace is a perfect blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture and the museum inside is a treasure trove of artifacts from the bygone era. The panoramic view of Lake Pichola from the palace is a sight to behold.

Another must-visit attraction is the Lake Palace located in the middle of Lake Pichola. A palace exudes an aura of mystery and romance. Take a boat ride to reach the palace and witness its ethereal beauty up close. Also, Monsoon Palace, also known as Sajjangarh Palace, is the perfect place to experience the magic of monsoons in all its glory.

Charming Lakes: One of the main attractions of Udaipur is its magnificent lakes. Pichola Lake, Fateh Sagar Lake and Uday Sagar Lake are some of the famous ones and the rainy season creates a mesmerizing atmosphere. Take a boat ride on these lakes, and witness the rain-kissed hills, ornate palaces and colorful buildings reflected on the lake’s raw surface.

Attractions around Udaipur: If you are looking to venture out of the city, Kumbhalgarh Fort will not disappoint you. Kumbhalgarh is the second-most important fort in Rajasthan. The fort is huge and beautiful, you will surely get lost in its beauty. Another impressive and peaceful place is the temple town of Ranakpur. An architectural wonder of the city, the Jain temple is adorned with intricate carvings from the walls to the pillars to the ceiling. Ranakpur makes you feel like you are in an ancient era. The city is surrounded by lush green forests, which you can trek if you wish.

Delicacy and local food: Rajasthan is famous all over India for its food. Indulge in mouth-watering street food like kachori, mirchi vada and garam pakodas during monsoons. Must try traditional Rajasthani dishes like Dal Bati Churma and Gatte Ki Sabzi, the most famous Rajasthani dish. Don’t forget to try the local sweets here, especially the famous Ghevar.

How to reach Udaipur

By Air: Udaipur has a domestic airport called Maharana Pratap Airport, which is well connected to major cities in India.

By Train: Udaipur is connected to major cities of India by an extensive railway network. Udaipur City Railway Station and Rana Pratap Nagar Railway Station are the two main railway stations in Udaipur.

By Road: Udaipur is well connected to nearby cities and towns through a network of national highways and state highways. You can reach Udaipur by taxi, bus or drive your own vehicle.

Place 7: Darjeeling, West Bengal

Nestled in the lap of the mighty Himalayas, Darjeeling is a captivating hill station in the state of West Bengal, also known as the “Queen of Hills”. Darjeeling is famous for its mist-covered mountains, lush green tea gardens, and breathtaking views of the majestic Kanchenjunga peak. Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, this hill station is a perfect blend of nature’s beauty and serenity. The monsoon season adds four moons to it. Tiger Hill Viewpoint is a popular spot for breathtaking sunrise views.

Things to do in Darjeeling in Monsoon

Darjeeling Beauty: Darjeeling receives abundant rainfall during the monsoon season, which transforms the region into a verdant paradise. The hills come alive with glistening waterfalls, blooming flowers, and mist-covered valleys. Tiger Hill Viewpoint is a popular place to witness the breathtaking sunrise view. From here you get a wonderful and breathtaking view of the Kanchenjunga Peak, the most majestic peak of the Himalayas. These scenes will surely satisfy your soul.

Visit a monastery: Darjeeling is a hub of Buddhist monasteries and exploring these holy places during the monsoons adds an element of serenity to your trip. Ghum Monastery, Yiga Choling Monastery, and Bhutia Basti Monastery are some of the prominent monastic institutions that you can visit. These monasteries offer a peaceful atmosphere, intricate architecture, and breathtaking views from the monastery.

Toy Train Ride: A trip to Darjeeling is not complete without experiencing the enchanting Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the “Toy Train”. The monsoon season adds a touch of magic to the experience as the train passes through mist-covered hills, offering panoramic views of lush green valleys.

Tea Tasting and Garden Tour: Darjeeling is famous for its world-famous tea gardens, and the monsoon season adds a magical touch to these plantations. Many tea estates organize tours and tastings during this time, giving you an insight into the complex process of tea production. Learn about the tea making process, and taste freshly brewed Darjeeling tea.

Adventure Activities: Despite the monsoon rains, Darjeeling offers ample opportunities for adventure enthusiasts. You can indulge in activities like trekking and hiking. Popular treks like the Sandakphu Trek and the Singalila Ridge Trek offer spectacular views of the Himalayas, lush valleys and vibrant vegetation. River rafting on the Teesta and Rangit rivers is also an exciting adventure that lets you see the raw natural beauty of the region up close.

How to reach Darjeeling

By Air: The nearest airport to Darjeeling is Bagdogra Airport, which is well connected to major cities in India. Darjeeling is about 90 kilometers from Bagdogra.

By Train: New Jalpaiguri (NJP) is the nearest major railway station to Darjeeling. It is well connected to various cities in India. You can take the famous Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (also known as the “Toy Train”) to New Jalpaiguri Darjeeling. The toy train journey is scenic but slow compared to road transport.

By Road: If you prefer to travel by road, you can reach Siliguri, which is well connected to major cities by bus and car. From Siliguri, you can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to Darjeeling.