After summer’s long haul, the arrival of the monsoon brings immense respite from the scorching heat and extreme humidity. That’s exactly why we love this season so much, even though it’s a hassle for the ones who have a hectic commute ahead of them every day. With long weekends and the festive season just around the corner, we say, catch a break by crossing city limits! A monsoon getaway is a must when the outdoors are so beautiful – and no, we are not talking about metropolitan settings. Head to the hills or make your way to a quaint place that offers a relaxing time with scenic views. And if you’re confused about the destination, we’ve rounded up the best places to visit during the monsoon in India! Let’s discuss best places to visit in monsoon in India.
These spots fit every budget with ease, as they offer both luxury options and value-for-money stays. They also cater to all kinds of interests, whether you’re seeking an adrenaline rush or simply looking to have a great time while you’re off-duty.
Which destination is good in the rainy season?
Take a look and start planning your perfect vacation with these top places to visit in the rainy season.
Lonavala
A hill station in Maharashtra that is synonymous with monsoon for the quintessential Mumbaikar, Lonavala is just a drive away if you stay in Mumbai, Pune or surrounding areas! It’s the hottest spot for families, friend groups and solo travellers as it offers something for everyone. Cute cafes and luxe hotels that offer a spellbinding view of the hills have us sold on this cliche yet striking destination. Villas, big or small, are also all the rage among younger generations. Lonavala features plenty of them, so if a hotel is not your thing, then a villa with a pool might be absolutely enticing!
The drive itself is filled with fog and greenery, making you believe you’re in paradise. This is what makes it one of the best places to visit during the monsoons in India. But a road trip isn’t the only option; the latest Vistadome coaches are a great way to enjoy the ghats even more! Prepare to be mesmerised by the valleys and the cloudy skies as these coaches offer viewing areas and glass rooftops for a splendid experience. Besides, they’re also pocket-friendly. Grab your group and set out to Lonavala this monsoon! It’s the best time to be there.
Goa
Some people believe summers are a great time to visit Goa, and it is not the best place to visit in the rainy season. The others swear by post-monsoon months right until March. After all, that’s when the party season begins in full swing right? But the charm of this sought-after holiday destination stretches beyond these months, staying intact for all 365 days of the year! (It is also among the 10 Best Places In India For Honeymoon In 2022 For Newlyweds!) Visiting Goa in monsoon might be an unpopular opinion – but it’s really one of the best times if you’re not exactly looking to rave all night or attend sundowners by the beach.
Even though there is consistent rain in this coastal state during these months, you can enjoy activities like rafting, trekking, visiting spice gardens, driving up the ghats, etc. If you’re on a solo trip, you can book your stay at a hotel with a private beach space so if the rains hit, you’re not left stranded or inconvenienced. Goa’s offbeat cafes can also be explored thoroughly during this season. Since the tourist rush is less during monsoon, you don’t have to wait hours before you get a table. That in itself should be the best selling point! So go ahead and map out your vacation to one of the best places to visit in monsoon in India; we hope it’s a memorable one!
Udaipur
The city of lakes and riches, Udaipur comes to life in the most beautiful way during monsoon! The colours of the city just pop out magnificently, luring you in instantly. Monsoon is one of the most offbeat times to visit the city, but it’s definitely worth it. Rajasthan is ever-vibrant, and the arrival of the wet weather just makes it all the more surreal. The age-old architecture also possesses a certain unparalleled charm, with cultural attributes brimming to the core.
A lot of other Indian cities complain about massive humidity during monsoon but with Udaipur, which is among the best places to visit in monsoon in India, that is just not the case. The temperatures are also pleasant, which means you can easily be in outdoors without cursing the weather! From boat rides to heritage walks, you can do it all. Don’t forget to have a meal at a lakeside or lake view restaurant that gives you an out-of-the-ordinary experience. You can take this trip with your loved ones or hop onto a flight to Udaipur alone; it’s sure to impress you immensely.
Pondicherry
If a luxurious getaway is not the one for you, might we suggest the absolutely picturesque town of Pondicherry as one of the most spectacular monsoon destinations in India? Informally referred to as Pondy, the postcard-worthy place is home to mustard-yellow tinted villas and old colonial houses. The old-world beauty of the place is what really captivates you. Pondicherry is a great place for people looking out for a nature retreat or going on an extended detox session. For the mind and for the body, the town offers a lot of wellness options.
Vegan cafes or organic eateries line up its beautiful streets, with faint aromas undoubtedly pulling you in. Heritage sites such as forts, etc. are also worth the visit. For beach lovers, this is one of the best places to visit in monsoon in India as Pondicherry is known for its spectacular beaches, so you’ll find them secluded at this time! You can also indulge in certified scuba diving if that’s something on your bucket list. Visit Auroville for an overall relaxed vibe and savour some delectable French cuisine. The cobble-stoned streets will welcome you like no other! Planning a getaway to this gorgeous place in winter? It is one of the best places to visit in January in India!
Wayanad
Situated in Kerala, the rural district is a famous monsoon vacation destination in India. It also ranks among the 10 Best Place To Visit in India in Summer Vacation – so be sure to check it out if you want to save this paradise for later. It is a haven for nature lovers, especially during the rainy season. Offering a lot of plantation tours, treks and trails, Wayanad is a monsoon hotspot. With lush green expanses that are a treat to the eyes, one can relax in the arms of nature and unwind in ideal weather conditions! The highlight of visiting Wayanad during monsoon is their festival ‘Splash’ which attracts tourists and artists worldwide.
If you’re a tourism writer, you’ll have a lot to talk about when you visit this cultural carnival at one of the best places to visit during monsoons in India. If you’re a mere tourist though, you’re free to participate in several sports as well as other activities organised by the Kerala Tourism department. Apart from this, the lakes and the thick bushy pathways around them are a must-visit as they fully bloom in monsoon. The caves and falls are also spectacular! If you’re heading to Wayanad in the monsoon, don’t forget to carry your trekking gear. Also, a complete checklist of trekking will come in handy! Most things are a hike away here, so you’re going to need the proper equipment to avoid injuries or inconvenience.
Malshej Ghat
Looking for a quick escape in or around Maharashtra? Malshej Ghat, which features some of the state’s most rare flora and fauna, is a stunning spot for nature lovers or enthusiasts and is among the best places to visit in the monsoon in India! There are a lot of group treks as well that head out to spots around this place, and you can join any one of them. Ranging from beginner level to intermediate, they offer the perfect respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. Birdwatching is also a sought-after activity here, and we would suggest getting in touch with a naturalist or guide for the full experience.
If trekking is not your thing and you still wish to be connected to nature somehow, then camping is another alternative. Be out in the wild with a group of fellow campers in Malshej Ghat, and we’re sure you’ll go home with a truckload of memories. Expect heavy to very heavy rainfall during the monsoon, though; Malshej Ghat is frequented for this reason itself! Be sure to carry your windcheaters and appropriate monsoon footwear.
Mount Abu
Another best destination for monsoon is Mount Abu, which we’re sure many of you must have already visited, whether with family or with friends. It’s exceptionally stunning during monsoon with its cloudy skies, and since it is the only hill station in Rajasthan, it’s worth the visit! The risk factor during monsoon is low, and if you make proper arrangements, you can ensure a smooth stay in this place.
Mount Abu railway station is also well-connected to various cities like New Delhi, Jaipur, Mumbai, etc. The famous hill town has a rich history dating back to the 11th century and also finds a mention in the Puranas as Abudaranya. The architecture of Jain Dilwara Temples and the Achalgarh Fort are stunning showcases of the respective periods’ construction styles. You don’t need anything specific except proper rain gear for a trip to Mount Abu in the monsoon! Also, you can get it done on a pretty low budget, doesn’t it make it to the best places to visit in monsoon in India list?
Coorg
Wondering what are the ideal places to visit in the monsoon? Coorg’s landscape is truly remarkable and an exceptionally beautiful destination all year round! It is one of Karnataka’s most stunning hill stations. Coffee lovers can find themself lost in the vast coffee plantations rich with aroma and nature. You can also sample some exclusive and premium coffee beans for your next cuppa! The waterfalls too, come to life here during monsoon. It is known as the ‘Scotland of India’ and with good reason!
Since it has a lot of green expanses, they look all the more vibrant after heavy showers, beckoning one to explore them in all their glory! Wildlife enthusiasts can get exploring at the Nagarhole National Park and Pushpagiri sanctuary. Water babies can take a trip to the majestic Jog Falls, which is the second-highest waterfall in India. The Kaveri will also be fully flowing during monsoon and that is a treat in itself!
Shillong
With cloudy skies and stunning hills, Shillong in Meghalaya is one of the best places to visit during India monsoon in India. Highly renowned for its captivating beauty, the hill town appears to be all the more amazing during the monsoons. If getting drenched is not really a problem for you, and you in fact love it during the rainy season, then this will prove to be the greatest getaway. The misty clouds and billowing waterfalls are a great sight. If you’re looking to try some local cuisine, there are a lot of low-key spots for you to explore! They serve the most delectable food, and you’ll remember the meal for a lifetime.
If you’re not convinced yet, maybe the rolling hills of the town will draw you in as nothing else can! The clouds outline the already-beautiful skies, giving them a cotton candy aesthetic. Being the capital city of Meghalaya, Shillong brings in a perfect blend of old-world charm and fresh essence. Blissful and perfect for solitude seekers, it presents several things like parks, peaks, landscapes and also museums, to keep any tourist mesmerised constantly during their stay!
Make sure that you have all your bases covered when it comes to taking a trip during monsoon. Even the best places to visit in monsoon in India can pose their own set of challenges owing to nature, so research thoroughly and prepare a travel checklist no matter where you’re going!
