Best places to visit in Monsoon in India

Monsoon in India isn’t just a season, it is an emotion. Be it Delhi people who see rain as an escape from the scorching heat or Mumbaikars who greet the rain showers like an old friend. Although when it comes to travelers, this is yet another excuse for them to explore some of the best places to visit in Monsoon.

If you are someone who doesn’t mind the rains and wants to make the most out of the season, then we’ve something to satiate your monsoon-loving travel bug.

While most people would prefer to look out the windows with a cup of tea in their hands, many love to experience it firsthand, in the Himalayas or even tropical forests of the Northeast. We compiled a list of all the must-visit places in Monsoon so you can plan your next rainy get away without any hassle!

Top 10 Places to visit in Monsoon that must be on your bucket list.

1. Coorg, Karnataka

This beautiful town nestled in the Western Ghats of Karnataka is situated at an elevation of 1452 meters above sea level. Popularly known as Scotland of India and Kashmir of the South, it is a breath of fresh air and a sight to behold in monsoons.

One of the most unique hill stations in India, it is well-known for its stunning views. In addition is home to Bylakuppe, India’s second-largest Tibetan settlement.

All in all, it is an ideal getaway for every kind of person, be it an adventure seeker, explorer, foodie, or someone who simply needs a break from the monotonous lifestyle.

Coorg is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in monsoon near Karnataka. With all that it has to offer, you can be sure that every single minute of the trip will be memorable. There are numerous places one can visit when you are on a trip to Coorg.

All of which is beyond beautiful in the monsoon season, with a hot cup of beverage that feels like a hug from inside and breathtaking rain around is the perfect combination.

Things To Do In Coorg, Karnataka :

Trek to Tadiandamol Peak and Kopatty
Bathe Elephants at Dubare Elephant Camp
Safari to Nagarhole National Park
Praying at Omkareshwara Temple
Microlight Flying

Places To Visit In Coorg, Karnataka:

Abbey falls
Harangi Dam
Madikeri Fort
Namdroling Monastery

Festivals Not To Miss In Coorg, Karnataka:

Kailpodhu which is the celebration of Field-Guarding Weapons and Field-Plowing Implements.
Puttari which means new rice is the harvest festival of Coorg.
Kaveri Sankramana is associated with the river Kaveri, and is to celebrate its birth.

2. Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh

It is a paradise that is not unknown to anyone. Elevated at a steering altitude of 3,000 m, it is as beautiful as the first drop of the monsoon.

Spiti means The Middle Land and is a true expression of India and Tibet’s union. Highlands and Himalayan peaks envelope Spiti. The twisting roadways and cliffs make the journey to Spiti exciting and adventurous.

A trip to Spiti Valley is like unraveling all the treasures that it holds. Being home to numerous high points, monasteries, breathtaking lakes, and rich culture for centuries. Spiti is a rain shadow region, because of which even in the monsoons it receives very less rain. This makes it a perfect delightful surrounding with specially crafted butter tea in your hand.

There are numerous activities you can get engaged in when you are here. To note, it is completely safe to travel to Spiti in the monsoon season.

Things To Do In Spiti Valley:

River rafting in Spiti and Pin rivers
Sending handwritten letters from the highest post office in the world
Camping at Chandratal
Paying a visit to monasteries that are 100 years old.

Places To Visit In Spiti Valley:

Komic Village which is the highest in the world
Pin valley
Langza
Dhankar

Festivals Not To Miss In Spiti Valley:

Losar Festival marks the beginning of the Tibetan New Year.
Tribal Fair is popularly known as Kumbh of Spiti valley.
La Darcha Festival is a multi-day Festival.
Gochi Festival is celebrated in February.

Popular Read: Spiti Valley FAQs answered

3. Munnar, Kerala

Next on our list of places to visit in Monsoon in Munnar. Situated about 1600m above sea level, it is the embodiment of natural beauty that gets enhanced with the caress of rain.

Munnar translates to three rivers in Malayalam. It is located at the junction of three mountainous areas which are Muthirapuzha, Nallathanni, and Kundala.

Because of the variety of rainfall in India, each location evolves into a transcendental and wonderful land in its distinct way. Munnar is a stunning beauty with splendid places and views around every corner.

Additionally, Munnar has some unique things to do which makes it a perfect destination to experience the monsoon in India.

Things To Do In Munnar, Kerala:

Tea plantation walks
Indulge in a Jeep safari to waterfalls and hanging bridge
Visit Eravikulam National Park
Experience breathtaking sunset behind Misty Mountains

Places To Visit In Munnar, Kerala:

Kundala Lake to take a Boat Tour
Waterfalls such as Attukal, Lakkom, Chinnakanal, etc
Taking a glimpse of Lockhart Gap
Tree House Stay

Festivals Not To Miss In Munnar, Kerala:

Attukal Pongala where women gather in the temple to make offerings.
The Pongala festival is a ten-day-long celebration.

4. Shillong, Meghalaya

It is the capital city of Meghalaya and is at an elevated altitude of 1496 meters above sea level. Shillong gets its name from U-Shillong, an influential deity.

Majestic waterfalls, stunning caves, incredible landscapes, and an authentic rich culture make Shillong unique.

Cherry Blossom in Shillong is an experience like no other. Interestingly, since many notable musicians have come from here, it is often known as India’s music capital. From a place that is known profoundly for music, you can imagine how majestic it would be this monsoon season.

Moreover, with every attraction being showered with beautiful rain, it is indeed a sight to hold. Dwelling on the lip-smacking local food such as Tungrymbai, Jadoh, Pukhlein, etc amidst the beautiful rain is indeed a combination like no other.

Things To Do In Shillong, Meghalaya:

Go for an adventurous trek to David Scott Trail
Camping and spending the night under a starry sky
Undertake an Exciting Carnival at Nh7 Weekender
Visit Mawlynnong, Asia’s Cleanest Village

Places To Visit In Shillong, Meghalaya:

Police Bazar
Don Bosco Museum
Ward’s Lake
Laitlum Canyons
In addition, don’t miss out on the highest point of Shillong which is Shillong Peak

Festivals Not To Miss In Shillong, Meghalaya:

Shad Suk Mynsiem where dance is performed to represent the Khasi society’s matrilineal and patrilineal structures
Behdeinkhlam Festival, Behdeinkhlam literally means “chasing away the plague.”
Wangala Festival which is a post-harvest festival celebration
Nongkrem festival is celebrated for good harvest, peace, and prosperity.

5. Ladakh, Jammu – Kashmir

Leh Ladakh, well known as The Land of High Passes is surreal. Situated at an elevation of 2750 – 7672 meters above sea level. One could not even imagine what this place and the experience it holds unless you visit. While it’s said that nothing is perfect, Ladakh is surely an exception here. To add, it is also the center of Tibetan Buddhist culture. Which you will experience and be mesmerized by it.

Although it is the rainy season, Ladakh continues to receive so little rainfall. With what little rain falls in short spurts of sudden rainstorms, which is unusual.

Almost all of the time, the clouds are clear, and the weather is pleasant. It’s a fine opportunity for exploring adventure, and other Ladakh-renowned activities. In addition, there are many interesting facts about Ladakh that will light up the curiosity to know more. And visit this beautiful destination.

Things To Do In Ladakh, Jammu – Kashmir:

Try Yak Cheese Momos
Visit Chemrey Monastery’s Illuminating Spot
Souvenirs can be purchased at the Main Bazaar
Seek some peace at Gurudwara Patthar Sahib

Places To Visit In Ladakh, Jammu – Kashmir:

Sangam
Nubra Valley
Shanti Stupa
The Stok Palace
The Hall of Fame museum

Festivals Not To Miss In Ladakh, Jammu – Kashmir:

Hemis Festival on the 10th day of the Tibetan lunar month
The Dosmoche Festival is a two-day event
The Tak Tok Festival is honored by lama dances
The Ladakh harvest Festival in September

6. Goa

It is that one destination that remains on top of everyone’s bucket list. College trips, Romantic Getaways, or even leisure trips are often planned by travelers with keeping Goa in mind. However, most people don’t know that the charm of Goa becomes tenfold when it rains.

Despite its small size, it has around 130 kilometers of coastline with a long stretch of mainly perfect and spotless beaches. North Goa and South Goa are the two districts. Even though this is a well-explored place, and can indeed be overcrowded at times. Yet, you will get to experience an altogether different side of Goa during the monsoon season.

There are numerous reasons why Goa is a preferred place for the monsoons. Some of them are, affordable travel expenses, less crowded which is quite rare to experience, the popular nightlife. Additionally, the scooter rides in between unknown roads and beautiful rain. Being in Goa in the off-season is indeed the most underrated experience you can have.

Things To Do In Goa:

Rafting in the Mhadei River
Shopping at Anjuna Flea Market
Cycling on the islands of Divar and Chorao
Sun setting cruise on the Mandovi River

Places To Visit In Goa:

Dudhsagar Waterfalls
Fort Aguada
Butterfly Beach
Dona Paula

Festivals Not To Miss In Goa:

Saint Francis Xavier’s Feast is observed to commemorate Saint Xavier’s death
Grape Escapade is the biggest wine festival
Sao Joao Festival held at the start of the monsoon season
Vasco Saptah

7. Darjeeling, West Bengal

It is also popularly called the Queens Of The Hills. At a steering elevation of 2,045 m, it is a town in the Himalayan foothills. It is a heavenly retreat with visions of mountain peaks covered in snow, beautiful lush green, and scenic views.

In the coming monsoon season, The surrounding becomes greener, because of which the whole town is in its prime. Around 85 tea estates add up to the reason for the famous Darjeeling Tea.

The breathtaking view of rain along with a specially crafted tea will make you feel alive all over again. In addition, you will be able to find relatively cheaper accommodation in the rainy season.

Things To Do In Darjeeling, West Bengal:

Witnessing the Paglajhora Falls which is visible only in the monsoon while driving along the hill cart road
Hand-picking from the tea plantations
Riding on the heritage toy train of Darjeeling.
Additionally, you can pay a visit to Ghoom monastery which houses one of the oldest and biggest statues of Buddha

Places To Visit In Darjeeling, West Bengal:

The Tiger Hills
The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute
Nightingale Park
The Rock Garden or the Barbotey Garden

Festivals Not To Miss In Darjeeling, West Bengal:

Teesta Tea and Tourism festival which includes a tea culture display and exhibition, as well as tasting sessions
Darjeeling Carnival the focus is on rock and band music in English, Bengali, and Nepali
Losha wherein the celebration goes on for about a week
Tihar that starts with crow feeding and ends with Bhai Tika

To-Read: Safety Measures For Roadrip In Monsoon

8. Lonavala, Maharashtra

Lonavla is a beautiful hill station situated in the Sahyadri Range of the Western Ghats. Located at an elevation of 624 m above sea level, it is a breathtaking destination. It is enveloped by forests, majestic waterfalls, dams along with pristine lakes. So it is the most popular place to visit in the monsoon near Maharashtra.

It is known as the Jewel Of Sahyadri. With Maharashtra being well-known for its rain, Lonavla is undoubtedly one of the best places to experience the monsoon season in India. With the tiny droplets of rain in this picturesque place. You will experience a low-stress level, and your worries and the burden of the monotonous life will seem to go away.

Interestingly, it is renowned for the production of hard candy – chikki. This is a mixture of different nuts and Jaggery which when combined give a sweet taste. It is a perfect lip-smacking thing to try when you pay a visit. In addition, there are numerous activities you can engage in such as photography, trekking, games at adventure parks, etc.

Things To Do In Lonavala, Maharashtra:

Experiencing the sunset at Lion’s point
Going to caves like Bhaja and Karla
El Taj is the perfect corner to go to in the monsoon season
Pose with Celebrities at the Wax Museum

Places To Visit In Lonavala, Maharashtra:

Beautiful dams such as Bhushi and Pawna
The age-old fort Tikona
Pavana Lake
Shree Narayani Dham Temple
Ryewood Park

Recommended Read: Best Treks to do in Maharashtra

9. Auli, Uttarakhand

10 Places To Go This Monsoon Season — Auli

It is indeed one of the best places to visit in the monsoon near Uttarakhand. Located around 2,800 meters above sea level and encircled by hectares of oak and conifer forests. It provides spectacular views of several of India’s highest peaks, such as the country’s second-highest peak, Nanda Devi.

Moreover opens doors to the Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Park. As well as the Hemkund Sahib gurdwara, and other famous trekking destinations. Auli means meadows, which is an accurate representation according to the features of the land.

In monsoon, it is one of the best destinations to go to. Surprisingly, It receives moderate rainfall, and the temperature fluctuates between 10 degrees Celsius and 20 degrees Celsius. The best activity to do in the monsoon season is to take relaxing walks around town. Additionally, explore the hill station and its many popular spots.

Things To Do In Auli, Uttarakhand:

The gondola that is the cable car
Going for ropeway
Trekking to Rudraprayag
Hike to Kwani Bugyal
Visit Nanda Devi National Park

Places To Visit In Auli, Uttarakhand:

Trishul peak
Joshimath
Rudraprayag, and Kwani Bugyal which is a very famous destinations for trekking
Auli Artificial Lake
Chattrakund Lake

10. Andaman And Nicobar Islands

This island is an Indian archipelago in the Bay of Bengal that includes nearly 300 islands. It is indeed one of the most breathtaking islands known to humankind. In the event that it is a fine example of what you call ‘Tropical Paradise,’. With palm-fringed seashores, sparkling clean stretches of white sands, an undisrupted presence of coexistence, and incredibly clear blue waters everywhere throughout.

Visiting a tropical island in the monsoon might seem like a very unusual thing to do. But, this is where it unexpectedly gets better. Everyone has an eye on the perfect sun-kissed beaches, but the rain-drenched beaches are a view one can die for, it’s absolutely beautiful. In addition, you get to travel for cheap and all the resorts are readily available. With less crowd around, you can get that perfect picture your heart (and Instagram) craves for. The standard attractions are open, so it’s pretty much a win-win situation.

Things To Do In Andaman And Nicobar Islands:

Scuba diving in Havelock Islands, and Neil Islands
Parasailing in the Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex
Visit the Samudrika Marine Museum
Try Glass Bottom Boating
Visit Forest Museum

Places To Visit In Andaman And Nicobar Islands:

Ross Island
Cellular Jail
Makruzz
Chidiya Tapu
Elephant beach

Festivals Not To Miss In Andaman And Nicobar Islands:

Island Tourism Festival
Beach festival
World Tourism Day celebrated in Port Blair
Monsoon Festival

If you are already imagining yourself with a cup of hot beverage in the monsoon season, and indulging in local food of the best places to visit in monsoon, then let’s turn the imagination into a reality, and hop on the well-needed trip.