Do you despise exploring locations in the searing Indian summer heat? Do you love the rain? Do you find it tough to decide where to visit in India in the monsoon months from June to September? Or do you avoid travelling during this time altogether thinking you wouldn’t have a good time with all that rain? If you’ve answered yes to any of these questions, then this blog post on the best places to visit in monsoon in India is for you. These destinations are especially beautiful or have an alluring charm during the rainy months. I dislike the rain but I’ve loved visiting many of the locations given below during the monsoon months. And I encourage you to as well.
We are talking glistening greenery, pleasant temperatures, hot tea pakoras and parathas, some pitter-patter, a quiet atmosphere, and low prices. Don’t you just love being one of the only humans somewhere? We sure do!
So, here is a list of the best places to visit in rainy season in India recommended by our fellow travel bloggers and us!
Map of Places to Visit in Monsoon in India
1. Munnar, Kerala
Explored by Diana from The Globetrotting Detective
During the monsoon, travelling to Munnar in God’s own country, Kerala, is one of the most amazing things to do in India. Munnar’s nature is greener than ever and the air is most refreshing from July to September. The average temperature during the season of monsoon is between 23 °C and 34 °C.
Things to Do in Munnar
Munnar sits at an altitude of 1,600 m (5,200 ft) in the Idukki district in Kerala. Its never-ending and picturesque tea plantations, lush green forests and valleys, dramatic hill ranges, glittering waterfalls, rare flora and fauna offer a lot of different activities for the visitors like treks, nature walks and boating.
- Explore tea plantations: The main highlight in Munnar are the tea plantations where they make one of the best teas you can find in India. You can freely wander among these lush green tea plantations that sparkle during the monsoons. The most famous tea plantations are the Pallivasal Tea Estate, the Chinnakalal Tea Plantation, and the Kolukkumalai Tea Estate.
- Visit waterfalls and lakes: Amidst the tea plantations, you can find spectacular waterfalls such as the Attukad Waterfalls and lakes such as the Kundale Lake, Devikulam Lake and Mattupetty Dam.
- Visit a National Park: There are massive national parks in Munnar, the most famous bring being the Eravikulam National Park. You can see the unique Nilgiri Thar, other exotic wildlife and South India’s highest mountain – Anamudi Peak- here.
Some of the other most popular spots to visit in Munnar include the Top Station, the Echo Point, and the Madupetty Dam.
Discover and book experiences in Munnar.
How to Reach Munnar
Regardless of where you are coming from, first get to Kochi via flight, train or bus. From Kochi to Munnar (110 km), you can either take a taxi or a government bus (at only Rs. 130). Alternatively, you can reach Munnar via Coimbatore (156 km). To go to any of the small villages around Munnar, you can take a local bus, tuk-tuk or taxi.
Restaurants
Salkara is one of the best restaurants located in a little village called Anachal. For Rs.110, you’ll get a delicious breakfast complete with delicious egg curry, idiyappam, South Indian coffee and water. Dinner will cost about Rs. 200.
You get awesome snacks on the route between villages too. Downright the best snack in Munnar is fried banana with south Indian coffee or local tea priced at a total of only Rs.20. Amazing!
Accommodation
Stay in a small family-owned hotel in a village in Munnar, such as Anachal, surrounded by lush green tea plantations. Check out the Munnar Minds Homestay and the Grace Inn Munnar Homestay.
Click above on the property names to see prices and book your stay!
2. Coorg, Karnataka
By Jesal Desai from Tourist To Travellers
Coorg is one of the most beautiful places to visit in India during monsoon as the surroundings become lush green and glisten with the rain. The town lies serenely amidst misty mountains and is surrounded by dense forests that are rich in flora and fauna that become even more beautiful and romantic with the rain. Coorg is aptly called “The Scotland of India” for its breathtakingly stunning landscape with vast coffee plantations, majestic waterfalls, and serene lakes.
Things to Do in Coorg
- Dubare Elephant Camp: Watch elephants in their natural habitat being fed and bathed at the Dubare Camp. One can pay to feed the elephants too.
- Visit the coffee plantations: Coorg is one of the largest producers of coffee in India. Embark on a fascinating journey of coffee bean picking.
- Abbey Falls: Click Instagram-worthy pictures at Abbey waterfall.
- Hiking: Go hiking and enjoy sunset views at Raja’s Seat.
Discover and book experiences in Coorg
How to Reach Coorg
Coorg does not have its own airport or railway station and is generally reached by cab or private car. You can get to Coorg either by airports at Mysore (120km) or Mangalore (140km) or from the nearest railway station at Mysore (100 km).
Restaurants
Sri Ambika Upahar: Do try the Uttapam, Masala Dosa and mouth-watering chutneys.
Accommodation
Club Mahindra Madikeri, set in the lap of nature, is a great mid-budget option!
For luxury, book Coorg Wilderness Resort– it is an excellent resort nestled in nature, with an infinity pool, European Style rooms, and plenty of activities including its own sunset point that gives 360-degree views of the forest and hills. You can use the code INF20 for a 20% discount. This code is however not applicable on national holidays and ongoing package offers.
Click above on the property names to see prices and book your stay!
3. Sandur, Karnataka
Explored by Trisha and Modi from Try Wandering More
Sandur is a small mining town located about 40 kilometres from Hampi. Although rather unknown and overlooked, it has a beautiful landscape characterized by rugged blue-black mountains and narrow lanes through water-filled paddy fields. It also has a palace you can stay at to enjoy your time in this small but charming corner of India. The cherries on the cake are the sunflowers that are in full bloom during this time. Even Mahatma Gandhi believed that Sandur is one of the best places to visit in India during monsoon. He said after his visit – “Visit Sandur in September“. It is that gorgeous!
As such, it will be ideal to plan a trip to Sandur in September when the rains slow down. Combine this trip to Sandur with 2-3 day trip to Hampi.
Things to Do in Sandur
- Drive around the Sandur area: Take in the beautiful views of mountains, fields and cattle. Do stop to climb the 200 steps to the ‘See Sandur in September’ viewpoint to get a wonderful view of the valley and the streams that run through it.
- Explore the Palace of Sandur: This is the palace of the Ghorpade royal family of the Marathas that ruled Sandur. Built in 1940, the palace sits on a 30-acre property. It is worth admiring the spaces that have been left as is despite being converted to a hotel – the library, the living areas decorated in local handicrafts, the billiards room, the vintage cars in the garage and the gardens.
- Nari Halla Reservoir: Walk by this huge picturesque lake formed by the backwaters of the Nari Halla dam.
- Visit Temples: Kumaraswamy temple ( Krauncha Giri) is a beautiful temple built by the Chalukyas with a lovely forest setting. Another option is the Narasimha Kunda – a small regular temple with a beautiful gorge!
- Buy Handicrafts: If you’re into handicrafts, visit the Sandur Kushala Kala Kendra – a Lambani handicrafts centre set up by the royal family.
- Visit the Ancient Ruins at Hampi: This is something you simply can’t miss when having made it so close. Exploring the various sites in Hampi is a delight!
How to Reach Sandur
You can get to Sandur either by car or bus from airports at Bangalore (351km), Toranagallu (11 km), Bellary (61 km) and Belgaum (191 km) or from the nearest railway station at Hospet (29 km).
Accommodation
The WelcomHertitage Shivavilas Palace Hotel located here used to be the residence of the King of Sandur as mentioned above. Now, it is a 5-star hotel that is a museum in itself. Stay here to enjoy not only the interesting interiors of the palace that take you back in time but also the beautiful palace grounds. If you’re a nature and history lover, no stay can get any better! Fortunately, it is quite affordable compared to other palace hotels in India.
Click above on the property names to see prices and book your stay!
4. Goa
Explored by Lavinia from Continent Hop
No matter the time of year, Goa is an incredible place to visit. Many people avoid it during the monsoons as they believe it isn’t fun around this time. However, if done right, Goa is fun and super budget-friendly – definitely one of the best places to visit in India during the monsoon months. The best part is that since tourists don’t throng the place, Goa is more pleasant and quiet during this time. Most restaurants are open and the food in Goa stays the same, delicious!
The best time to visit during this period is either June or September when the rains are more manageable and almost all places are still open.
Things to Do in Goa
- Dudhsagar Falls: Located in the Western Ghats on the borders of Goa, this is Goa’s tallest waterfall. It is a must-visit as it creates a milky illusion and also literally translates to a ‘sea of milk’. It is best visited during the monsoon as the volume of water in the falls is at its maximum. A wonderful sight! You can do a 4-hour trek here too.
- Basilica of Bom Jesus: This is the most famous Basilica in all of Goa as it holds the remains of the revered saint Francis Xavier. Its architecture is worth admiring!
- Sahakari Spice Farm: This plantation is full of spice, tropical fruit and medicinal trees. You can take a guided walk to learn all about these plants and trees and even buy some for your home.
- Fontainhas: This is the Latin quarter of Goa – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander these lanes to admire the colourful neighbourhood and its incredible Portuguese architecture.
- Vagator Beach – Vagator is a busy beach but not too crowded (not at all during the Monsoon) and has some of the best restaurants in the state.
Discover and book experiences in Goa
How to Reach Goa
The best way to reach Goa is by flight to Dabolim airport or by train to either Margao (for south Goa) or Panaji (for central and north Goa). You can also take a bus or drive it down from Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad and Gujarat.
Accommodation
Luxury: Resort Rio located near Baga beach has peaceful surroundings and a spa.
Mid-budget: Novotel Goa Resort & Spa located near Candolim also has a spa and bikes for guests
Budget: Beleza by the Beach has buffet breakfasts and views of the beach. For a hostel stay, opt for JUNGLE by the HostelCrowd at Vagator.
Click above on the property names to see prices and book your stay!
Pro-Tip
Make sure that when you visit, you drink filtered or bottled water and have a jacket with you at all times!
Related Read: A Complete Goa Travel Guide
5. Lonavala, Maharashtra
Explored by Trisha and Modi from Try Wandering More
Lonavla is a hill station resting on the lap of the Sahyadri mountains. The otherwise brown hills and valleys turn green only during this time of the year and so we suggest this is the time you visit to see the real beauty of the Western Ghats. The foggy surroundings, the fresh air, the serene lakes, the multitude of small waterfalls and the splendid valley views will take your breath away.
Things to Do in Lonavla
- Tiger Point and Lion’s Point: These are the most popular cliff-top viewpoints in Lonavala. Enjoy the emerald valley views while eating some pakoras and hot tea.
- Bhushi Dam: This is a scenic spot that has vivacious water running down the dam. The area is surrounded by chilly water, lush greens and rugged terrain.
- Pawna Lake: A serene lake where you can even opt to camp by the lakeside. The sunrise views from here are something else! Enjoy a stroll around the lake, go hiking, and boating.
- Rajmachi Fort Hike: Rajmachi Fort is an easy 5-6 hour hike that offers stunning green scenery during the monsoons. From the top, you’ll get an amazing view of the Western Ghats and Shirota Dam.
- Korigad Fort Hike: It is an easy hike through the jungle and steps. The best bit is that in the monsoons the steps overflow with water so climbing them can be slippery but also a superb adventure. Read more on this hike here.
- Adlabs Imagica: If it isn’t raining, you can also take a trip to Adlabs Imagica. Choose between an amusement park, a snow park and a water park or stay at the Novotel beside the parks and do all three.
How to Reach Lonavla
Lonavla can be reached by first taking a flight or train to Pune (65km) or Mumbai (85km). From either of these places, take a bus or cab to Lonavala. However, to see Lonavala properly we would suggest having your own vehicle. If you don’t have your own car/bike, hire a self-drive car.
Accommodation
The Lonavala area has plenty of beautiful places to stay.
Luxury: Hilton Shillim Estate Retreat (wellness resort), Della Adventure Resort (has its own adventure park), The Machan Resort, Aamby Valley City and Nostravila (villa with a private pool). These are all great for a staycation too.
Mid-Range: The Duke’s Retreat or Sterling Lonavala
Budget Stay: Meritas Countryside Resort or Meritas Adore Resort
Click above on the property names to see prices and book your stay!
Pro-Tip
Combine your trip to Lonavla with that to Pune, Mumbai, Mahabaleshwar and Goa. The ideal route would be Mumbai – Lonavla – Pune – Mahabaleshwar-Goa. If the rain flooding situation in Mumbai is bad at the time, skip it and do both Mahabaleshwar and Lonavala from Pune, then head to Goa.
6. Diamond Triangle, Odisha
Explored by Soumya from Stories by Soumya
If you are looking for a beautiful, green, and historical place to visit in India during the monsoon, head to the Diamond Triangle of Odisha. Home to three ancient Buddhist cities, the Diamond Triangle once flourished as the seat of Buddhist learning in eastern India. Today, it is filled with ruins of stupas and old monasteries that are replete with stories and tales from centuries ago.
During rains, the Assian Hill range that the cities are located on becomes lush green and temperatures dip. The Buddhist ruins stand out in stark contrast to the greenery and appear doubly beautiful.
Places to see in the Diamond Triangle in Odisha
- Lalitgiri: 4 Sprawling monasteries and a Maha Stupa form the crux of Lalitgiri Buddhist ruins in Odisha. A large, oval-shaped prayer hall or Chaitragraha is the most impressive structure in the entire ensemble. Do not miss Buddha’s relic caskets at the Lalitgiri Museum.
- Ratnagiri: Ratnagiri is famous for its massive monastery and elaborately carved doorway which you cannot skip.
- Udaygiri: Udaygiri, the lesser-known gem of Odisha’s Diamond Triangle, is home to lost monasteries and beautiful stupas, many yet to be discovered by the world.
The museums of both Lalitgiri and Ratnagiri are remarkable, neatly organized, and trace the history of Buddhism in Odisha and India.
How to reach Odisha’s Diamond Triangle
By air, you can reach the nearest airport in Bhubaneswar (85km) and then get to the Diamond Triangle by car or bus. The easiest is to book an Ola outstation taxi for a day trip from Bhubaneswar.
Accommodation
Stay in Bhubaneswar, Odisha’s capital city and visit the Diamond Triangle on a day trip.
Luxury: Mayfair Lagoon make for a super memorable stay. It is centrally located and surrounded by lagoons and gardens that have very interesting statues and displays.
Mid-Budget: Mayfair Convention is a little lower end than its aforementioned brother. However, the rooms are luxurious enough and well-appointed at half the price. Also, it is located right in front of Mayfair Lagoon so you can take advantage of the facilities at Mayfair Lagoon too!
The food at both Mayfair hotels is quite delicious.
Click above on the property names to see prices and book your stay!
Pro-Tip
- Get a good pair of walking shoes since the ruins need to be explored on foot.
- Have lunch at Toshali Resort located right in front of the Ratnagiri Museum. If possible, call them and let them know you are coming. These places do not see many tourists. So, it always helps to give them a heads up.
- Combine a visit to the Diamond Triangle with trips to the beach town of Puri (69 km from Bhubaneswar) and to Konark Temple (73 km from Bhubaneswar). Also, tour the temples of Bhubaneswar. Discover and book experiences in Odisha
7. Udaipur, Rajasthan
Recommended by Haley Blackall from HaleyBlackall.Com
Udaipur, the magical City of Lakes is located in the popular Rajasthan state of northwestern India and is dubbed the Venice of the East for its sophisticated lake systems. Udaipur is also home to beautiful whitewashed palaces and colourful culture that you shouldn’t miss.
If you are looking to visit one of the best monsoon destinations in India, Udaipur fits the bill. The city is best visited in September as the rain has made the surrounding hills lush green. The mild temperatures of this time also lend to a more pleasant sightseeing experience as opposed to summer. To top it all off, the best tour and hotel discounts can be found during this time.
Things to See and Do in Udaipur
- Udaipur City Palace: Udaipur’s main palace was built in 1599 and is where Maharana Udai Sing II (the founder of Udaipur) resided in his reign as King. The creamy substantial yet elegant walls of the palace sit atop a hill over the old town, with spectacular views of the sparkling Lake Pichola.
- Sunset Cruise on Lake Pichola: Book yourself a relaxing cruise on a small boat at sunset. The view and colours at this time of day are breathtaking and will take you past the famous Taj Lake Palace, which is now a luxury hotel. You can alternatively also book a boat ride with a 3-course dinner at Jagmandir Palace.
- Drinks atop the Jagat Niwas Palace: Laze the evening away with a cocktail in hand at the graceful Jagat Niwas Palace right at the water’s edge
- Rooftop Yoga session: This can be arranged with your hotel and is one of the most unique experiences to have in Udaipur.
Discover and book experiences in Udaipur
How to Reach Udaipur
As one of the main cities of the region of Rajasthan, Udaipur enjoys the convenience of its airport for easy travel. The Maharana Pratap Airport is located 22 km or a 45-minute taxi ride from Udaipur’s city centre costing Rs. 700 (around USD 10).
Accommodation
- Luxury: Stay at Taj Lake Palace in the middle of the lake for an unforgettable palace stay.
- Mid-range: Udai Kothi is a beautiful boutique hotel that is modern yet has Udaipur’s old-world charm. You’ll find like you’re staying in a palace without staying at one.
- Budget: Go Stops has a good location, clean rooms and friendly staff.
Click above on the property names to see prices and book your stay!
Restaurants
- Ambrai Restaurant for beautiful views of Lake Pichola
- Sai Baba Paratha for the tastiest parathas
- Syah Restaurant for a luxury dining experience
8. Jaipur, Rajasthan
Explored by Ellis Veen from Backpacker Adventures
One of the best places to visit during the monsoon in India is Jaipur. Being the capital of the desert province of Rajasthan, Jaipur only sees a modest amount of rainfall meaning that it will be overcast with maybe a couple of hours of rain at the end of the day. However, Jaipur sees just enough rain to bring relief from the oppressing summer heat that precedes the rainy season. August is the wettest month and the sun will increasingly show itself once September starts.
Many people avoid Jaipur during the monsoon, but there are plenty of reasons to visit. It will be quieter and prices are lower in the offseason. In addition, temperatures are pleasant, the air feels fresh and the surrounding hills are lush and green. Jaipur is also known as the pink city because of its terracotta pink colour that only becomes more pronounced when the rain washes away the dust.
Things to See and Do in Jaipur
There is a lot to see in Jaipur so you’ll definitely need a couple of days here to explore the city fully.
- City Palace: Explore Jaipur’s royal palace and its palace museum
- Hawa Mahal: A beautiful five-storey palace of the winds
- Jaipur’s Bazaar: Go souvenir shopping while trying Rajasthani street food in between
- Amber Fort: A magnificent fort on top of a scenic hillside. A must-visit!
- Water Palace (Jal Mahal): A picturesque palace in the middle of Sagar lake
- Gaitore Cenotaphs: Royal tombs just outside of Jaipur
- Galta Ji Monkey Temple: A charming, peaceful and secluded temple with lots of monkeys
- Nahargarh Fort: A fort with beautiful views over Jaipur
Discover and book experiences in Jaipur
How to Reach Jaipur
Jaipur has an international airport with direct flights to most major cities in India. A more sustainable way to reach Jaipur is by train. Because of its central location in Rajasthan trains connect Jaipur with Delhi, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Udaipur and beyond. You can also drive it down or take a bus from Delhi.
Food
Jaipur is a great destination if you love food. Chokhi Dhani is a superb upmarket restaurant to try Rajasthani food, but also don’t miss the street food in the bazaar.
Accommodation
In Jaipur, there are lots of accommodation options. Budget options include Zostel Hostel or Vinayak Guesthouse. For more comfort, you can also choose Hilton Jaipur or The Leela Palace for the utmost luxury.
Click above on the property names to see prices and book your stay!
9. Dzukou Valley, Nagaland
Explored by Joydeep Phukan from The Gypsy Chiring
Located at 2452 meters above sea level, the Dzukou Valley of Nagaland in Northeast India is a trekker’s paradise. The conclusion of cherry blossoms in the state marks the advent of monsoon rains and the revival of the verdant hills of Dzukou. The monsoon scenery of Dzukou Valley comprises enchanting green hills, a gushing cold river stream, blue skies, and the exclusive seasonal flowering of Dzukou Lily (Lilium Chitrangadae). The best time to visit the valley is from May till August for its flowers and mesmerizing views.
Things to See and Do in Dzukou Valley
- Hike down to the valley.
- Swim in the river stream in the valley.
- Enjoy the panoramic view of Dzukou from the top of a cave located in the middle of the valley. A must-see.
How to Reach the Dzukou Valley
A hike of 5-6 hours, Dzukou Valley can be reached via two trekking trails- Jakhama and Viswema. The nearest railway station- Dimapur is at a distance of 83 km and 89 km respectively. From the station, both shared and private cabs ply to Kohima every day till 4 pm, except Sunday when only private cabs might be available. From Kohima, it is another half hour’s journey to Jakhama.
Dimapur Airport in Nagaland is the nearest regional airport, while the Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi Airport in Guwahati of Assam is the nearest International Airport.
Food
Kohima, Morung Kitchen, and The Bamboo Shoot Restaurant are the best for ethnic cuisines such as Axone and Naga Lotha Dish. While at the valley, the Campsite Owners offer Rice Thali (veg and non-veg) once a day. One may order noodles for breakfast.
Accommodation
In Kohima, Morung Lodge is preferable for backpackers. While Niraamaya Retreat is a great option for mid-budget travellers and Kohima Camp Nagaland is for luxury ones.
The Dzukou Valley is looked after by the Southern Angami Youth Organisation (SAYO) which provides camping and dorm facilities, along with kitchen space and utensils for rent.
Click above on the property names to see prices and book your stay!
Pro-Tips
Considering the monsoon weather, it is suggested to stay at the valley for at least 2-3 days to experience the magical aura of Dzukou.
10. Leh, Ladakh
Explored by Dzangir Kolar from Dr Jam Travels
Ladakh, the land of high passes, is a mountainous region nestled in the Himalayas with villages at altitudes between 2800 – 4500 metres (9000 – 15000 feet). Because of the high altitude, the area is a desert with minimal vegetation. Ladakh is bordered by Pakistan, and Tibet (Chinese territory), so interestingly, you can find influences of these countries in the people, culture and food.
Leh, the capital of Ladakh and your entry point into the region, lies 3500 meters (11,500 feet) above sea level. So while visiting ensure you acclimatize for at least a day in order to not get acute altitude sickness.
Ladakh’s tourist season lasts from April to September. While Leh can be visited year-round, the best time to visit it would be in combination with the rest of Ladakh in the months of May, June and September when the temperature is better (3ºC -21ºC) than other times of the year and rainfall is low.
Things to See and Do in Leh, Ladakh
- Leh City Attractions: The main attractions are the 16th century 9-storey Leh Palace (now a museum), Shanti Stupa, Namgyal Tsemo Monastery (it has the best view of Leh city)
- Sham Valley: Take a day trip on this route to see Magnetic Hill (an optical illusion where cars seem to be going up a hill), the Confluence of Zanskar and Indus Rivers and some monasteries.
- Monasteries: Take a trip to monasteries like Thiksey (15th century), Shey and Diskit.
- Rafting: Rafting on Indus is a great experience for adventure enthusiasts.
- Khardung La Pass: Marketed as the highest motorable road pass (though it isn’t), at more than 5500 meters (18000 feet).
- Hemis National Park: It is the perfect place to spot snow leopards with a 50% chance of seeing them on a safari.
If you’re travelling to such a remote place, it will be ideal to also see other areas of Ladakh like Nubra Valley (sand dunes and camels), Turtuk Village (the last village before Pakistan that is inhabited by Balti people), and Pangong Lake (beautiful blue lake of which 1/3rd is in India).
You’ll need at least 8 days for this whole trip including Leh if reaching the city by flight!
Compare and book Leh tours and experiences.
How to Reach Leh
Leh can be reached directly by flight, by road from Delhi/Chandigarh via Manali or from Srinagar in Kashmir. Taking the roadway to Leh is an experience by itself and is considered better for acclimatization too. You’ll enjoy views of the Indus river’s deep gorges, magnificent panoramas, and pass the second-coldest town in the world, Drass.
Accommodation
Luxury: The Grand Dragon Ladakh is undoubtedly the most popular hotel in Leh.
Mid Budget: WelcomHeritage Lha-Ri-Sa Resort and Ladakh Sarai are beautiful properties.
Budget: Stay at one of the many guesthouses like Tsetan Guest House. Basic but well-rated and well-located.
Click above on the property names to see prices and book your stay!
What do you think? Which of these locations are you most taken by? Do tell us in the comments. Also, tell us which other places you think are the best monsoon destinations in India. We might just expand this post 🙂
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