Experience the splendor of the rains at these 20 monsoon destinations in India

8 years ago

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The monsoon is here and it is time once again to experience the beauty of the rains. If you are thinking about putting off your travel plans, these 20 places will make you think twice. So check out the list and visit the place closest to you!

1. Chherrapunji

While the debate as to whether Chherrapunji or Mawsynram is the wettest place in India continues, you should visit Meghalaya to experience the rains and the gorgeous Nohkalikai Falls. Now, with heavy rains, you might get ensconced with just mist and mist all around, but the experience of that kind of rain is not an every-day experience, you see.

Another reason – the drive from Shillong to Cherrapunji is beyond beautiful, winding through valleys, green mountains and tiny hillside towns. Gorging on a plate of momos in this weather from a road side stall adds to the experience.

2. Ranikhet

Visit this hill station in Uttarakhand when the monsoon sets it. The mountains of Garhwal offer mesmerising views of valleys, mountains, and high-altitude lakes. And, if you are up for some serious trekking, go on a guided trek to the Valley of Flowers and get hypnotised by the countless vibrant-hued flowers, fresh air and the peacefulness!

3. Agumbe

Not many outside Karnataka know of this place, situated at 2,000 ft above sea level, it receives copious amount of rains. Dotted with little-known beautiful waterfalls and trek options, this place is a nature-lover’s delight. The place is also the heart of wildlife conservation efforts. Agumbe is for those who enjoy the rustic life, sans filters.

4. Mount Abu

While it rains sparsely in most of Rajasthan, Mount Abu – its only hill station receives most of it. The majestic mountains, coupled with the rich architecture, get all the more beautiful when it drizzles! A visit to this quaint hill station during the monsoons is an experience that you will enjoy!

5. Lonavala

Agreed, this one place in Maharashtra can be visited round the year, but the monsoon is extra special. It feels like a scene straight out of a romantic Bollywood movie. Awesome climate, your loved ones beside you, can you ask for more?

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6. Coorg

One of the favorite travel hotspots in Karnataka, Coorg offers beautiful views of lush green hills, waterfalls and coffee plantations. You could also trek into the wilderness or enjoy some river rafting. The place will also awaken the foodie in you – the delicious Coorgi cuisine and some home-made wines from fruits like jackfruit and pineapple!

7. Shoja

Situated in Himachal Pradesh, about 70 km from Kullu is a hamlet that is fairly unexplored. You will be treated to views of unending slopes of emerald forests and snow-clad peaks of the Himalayan range. Enjoy a walk, just after a fresh drizzle!

8. Dudhsagar waterfalls

If you are trekking enthusiast, you probably have visited this already. If not, you should. Trekking through the railway tunnels from Castle Rock to Dudhsagar in Goa is thrilling beyond compare. And, if you would just like to see the waterfalls minus the trek, buy a train ticket from Margao to Londa and view the waterfalls in its full glory.

9. Meghamalai

Situated at 6,000 ft above sea level in the southern Western Ghats, you are welcomed into a world whose beauty is hard to describe. Situated in the Theni District of Tamil Nadu, Meghamalai borders the Periyar Tiger Reserve in Kerala.

10. Orchha

With the Betwa river brimming with water, the monsoon is the near-perfect time to explore the town of Orchha and its wildlife sanctuary known for its varieties of birds. Dotted with historical palaces and temples, Orchha should be on your itinerary if you are travelling or in Madhya Pradesh.

11. Munnar

One of Kerala’s most popular destination for all seasons gets even more beautiful with the monsoons. Sipping a cup of locally brewed chai surrounded by tea plantations, green rolling hills and mist, you would want a small cosy home there.

12. Kaas Plateau

A few kilometres away from Satara city, Kaas Pathar as the locals call it, is known for the wild flowers which bloom during August-September. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this place in Maharashtra boasts of more than 850 different species of flora, which include carnivorous plants!

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13. Chikamagalur

Over here, there is nothing but greenery as far as your eyes can see. Trek to Mullanyagiri or Kemmanagundi and test your strengths. Play in the numerous small waterfalls hidden in the plantations. Or just relax in a home stay. Chikamagalur in Karnataka is a traveller’s paradise.

14. Coonoor

Go to Coonoor and enjoy the toy train ride to Ooty and it will be the highlight of your trip, reminding you of a beautiful bygone era! From a spectacular view of the plans to panoramic view of the Nilgiris, you are sure to be smitten by this hill station.

15. Jog Falls

Thundering and roaring, this majestic waterfall is a sight to behold in the monsoons. Nestled in the Sharavati valley, yet easily accessible, the view casts a spell. You can even take a local guide’s help to reach the other side of the falls, where it plunges into the valley from a height of 829 ft in four magnificent cascades. Shutterbugs, don’t give this place in Karnataka a miss!

16. Malshej Ghat

A mountain pass in the Western Ghats, is of special interest to adventure lovers. This charming hill station is a perfect travel destination in Maharashtra to soak in the rains.

17. Athirapalli Falls

Begin your journey at Chalakudy, drive through winding roads, small villages and lush green trees – all the way to beautiful Athirappilly Falls in Kerala. Take the paved path to reach the top of the waterfalls or the bottom, to see the waterfalls in full force – a sight to behold! Also, visit the Vazhachal falls, which is just 5km away.

18. Araku Valley

You can either drive or opt for a train journey, both of which are equally beautiful and reach the Araku Valley nestled in the Eastern Ghats in Andhra Pradesh. Home to tribal communities, the area is known for its lovely green countryside during the monsoon. You could also consider visiting the nearby Borra caves.

19. Saputara

This hill station in Gujarat dotted with lakes, streams, woodlands and hills, gets covered in a blanket of rain drops during the monsoons. With spectacular view points, especially during sunrise and sunset, the experience of visiting the mist laden hills during the monsoons with family and friends, makes it an ideal escapade.

20. Kalimpong

Situated on a ridge overlooking the Teesta River, this popular hill station in West Bengal is known for the many types of rhododendrons and orchids that grows here. But, visiting the hill station in monsoon rejuvenates the soul – sitting in the balcony of a home stay, sipping tea and watching the clouds go by.

Well, this is just a mini compilation. There are even more beautiful places around your cities and hometowns. Explore them and tell us your wanderlust experience.