Top 21 Places to Visit in Monsoon in India

There is no doubt that India is a land of diversity; diversity in landscapes, diversity in culture, diversity in language, and more. It is the grandeur of its heritage and the beauty of its places that transforms it into a dreamland.

Speaking of its getaways, there are multiple; according to the purpose, season, budget and mood. You just need a reason or better say a break to explore its versatility, from the rough temper of Ladakh to rippling touch of Pondicherry and from the golden sand dunes of Rajasthan to history-telling ruins of Nalanda University, on each exploration you will find a new face of “Incredible India”

Visitors thronging this beautiful South Asian nation usually get confused which are the best places that they must include in their holiday itinerary or where to go in India during monsoon. But you need to be a rain lover and a tough soul to invade here as India is no short of captivating locations. Check out these lovely monsoon getaways that will definitely cast a spell of magic and fill your holidays with adventurous memories that you will treasure forever.

Monsoon Destinations in South India

Munnar—Ultimate Place to fall in Love

A destination for honeymooners, family vacationers, wildlife seekers, adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers-Munnar is undoubtedly an ultimate place to just fall in love with! Having topography full of sprawling tea plantations, green-dotted valleys, streams, cliffs, and of course rough rocks giving the much needed break to your sight’s velocity, this haven of Kerala looks in its best revitalizing form during monsoon.

Monsoon Period: June to September

Best Activity: Trekking, bird watching, hiking and sightseeing, especially beautiful cascades.

Kodaikanal—Land of Magical Vistas

Another fascinating monsoon destination in India, Kodaikanal symbolizes its name “The Gift of Forest” in true sense. With sun and clouds playing hide and seek with each other, and sometimes hammering down the pour heavily, it is really spectacular to watch the fresh look of this hill station of Tamil Nadu as well as smell the aroma of rain-washed mud. But plan your visit during rains only if you are daring enough to handle monsoon’s madness.

Monsoon Period: July and August

Best Activity: Trekking, cycling and sightseeing but high risk of landslides due to slippery mountains

Coorg— Fusion of Beauty and Tranquility

If you are in Coorg during rainy season then it is natural to have a million dollar smile! Dare to step out and get drenched by the pour just not to miss some spectacular views of Coorg. Cool breeze, pleasant weather, mist covered surroundings, and fresh green views are some of the admiring results of dewy period in the area. Don’t miss the rich aroma of hot coffee!

Monsoon Period: June to September

Best Activity: Sightseeing but be aware of leaches and snakes and do not try any extreme adventure activity.

Athirapally, Kerala—Perfect Combo of Calmness and Wilderness

As you embark on the journey to Athirapally and the moment you step out here, you will realize why it is said to be the favorite monsoon place in Kerala. Commonly known as the “Niagra of India”, Athirapally Falls is the most popular attraction of the area and it looks striking during monsoon. Follow the steepy way to the falls and enjoy the musical whispers of birds synchronizing perfectly with the loud voice of waterfall.

Monsoon Period: June to September

Best Activity: Sightseeing but be aware of leaches and snakes and do not try any extreme adventure activity.

Wayanad—The Rejuvenating Point

There is no doubt that Wayanad is one of the best hill stations in South India. And this means, there is no lack of beautiful natural sights. But what makes Wayanad so special is its adventurous side. Its strategic location in between of Western Ghats’ mountains gives travelers immense opportunities to trail trekking routes, mountain climbing, hiking etc. And to the much delight of vacationers, the place also hosts a special 3-day monsoon festival “Splash” to portray Wayanad as the most popular monsoon place in India.

Monsoon Period: June to September

Best Activity: Trekking, hiking and sightseeing

Kumarakom—Advent of Adventure

If you want to give yourself a monsoon treat then Kumarakom is the place for you to indulge. The advent of drizzle renovates the look of this emerald peninsula making it a series of green pictures. Feel the thrill and chill of standing drenched at Ashtamudi and Vembanad with heavy wind making you down on knees. But it is good to keep an umbrella along with you wherever you go in Kumarakom.

Monsoon Period: June to September 

Best Activity: Ayurvedic therapies and bird-watching

Alleppey—Sensuous Touch of Mother Nature

Like other tourist places in Kerala, Alleppey too dress up a very greeny look during monsoons but still it is counted as one of the top places to visit in monsoon. Then what separates it from others? Step into this picturesque city and you will soon realize this as swiftly as monsoon water merge with lake ripples. Watch the transforming shades of the surroundings while enjoying a Kerala fish curry and spicy Karimeen fry. A ride in shikara is another interesting and never to miss attraction of monsoon in Alleppey.

Monsoon Period: June to September 

Best Activity: Shikara ride, fishing, sightseeing and savouring mouthwatering local delicacies.

Monsoon Destinations in West India

Mahabaleshwar—Blend of Spirituality and Beauty

It is generally advised to avoid Mahabaleshwar trip during monsoon but if you are an adventure freak and love getting wet in downpour then head to this hill station of Maharashtra. The place truly transforms itself into a paradise with the onset of rains. Cool climate, fresh breeze, refreshing forest outlook and tranquil atmosphere definitely make it one of the best places to visit in India during monsoon.

Monsoon Period: June to September

Best Activity: Sightseeing

Khandala—Legend of Sahyadris

Drive just 3km from Lonavala to reach Khandala, a hilly terrain area that lies in the foothills of Sahyadris Range or better says the Western Ghats. Despite height of just 625 meters (in comparison to other hills stations of India) above sea level, Khandala has its own admirers and visitors. The place serves as a wonderful weekend hangout and hiking point for people residing around, especially for Mumbai but with the beginning of drizzles, the scenic beauty of the place blooms like a garden of old memories.

Monsoon Period: June to August

Best Activity: Hiking

Goa—The Much-needed Break

There are many reasons to visit Goa during monsoon. Some of its popular festivals like Sao-Joao, the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul and Bonderam Flag Carnival falls in the rainy season and thus brings a fresh breeze of liveliness in the surroundings of this tiny bliss. Along with this enthusiasm, rains cast a spell of magic on nature too with attraction like Mollem National Park, Dudh Sagar Falls and Mandovi River painting amazing views on Goa’s sand cover.

Monsoon Period: June to September

Best Activity: Trekking at Amboli Ghats and Cotigao and whitewater rafting in River Mandovi

Lonavla—Captivating Green Carpet

Lonavla or Lonavala is a perfect choice to be at during rainy season. Once you visit it, you will find gallon of allure in this small hilly package of Pune. Fantastic green sights, beautiful waterfalls, ponds and some wonderful sightseeing sites make Lonavla an eye-catcher during monsoon. With heavy clouds hammering over your head and Karla Caves and Visapur Fort waiting to take you back in the bygone era, Lonavla emerges as a big relaxing spot.

Monsoon Period: June to September

Best Activity: Sightseeing

Panchgani—A Date with Rain

Drive around 5 hours from Mumbai to reach Panchgani, a small hill station placed in the lush Western Ghats. The place is not so popular among honeymooners but its wetty appeal is enough to make you stay here for hours or days. Venna Lake, Lingmala Waterfalls, Table-Land, horse-riding and many more things to do and see add a punch to your voyage of Panchgani. Celebrate monsoon with some hot local dishes served at eateries near to the lake.

Monsoon Period: June to September

Best Activity: Sightseeing

Monsoon Destinations in North India

Leh Ladakh—Journey down the Memory lane

An incredible place to behold; an enormity to conquer; an abode to relive and a road to moon escape, visit Leh Ladakh and get lost in its endless beauty. A favorite choice for adventure seekers, this remote destination of India is truly a place of contrasting beauties: rugged deserted hills-crystal clear lakes, serene Buddhist monasteries-colourful festivals. Unlike other destinations of India, monsoon period is regarded as the best time to capture Leh Ladakh in your memory.

Monsoon Period: Ladakh not affected by monsoon

Best Activity: Trekking, jeep safaris and cycling

Mussoorie—An Eye-catching Beauty

You cannot ignore adding this green emerald beauty of Uttarakhand in your India’s monsoon tour. Blessed with the beauty of rolling hills, exotic flora and fauna, and magnificent views of Doon Valley and the Shivalik range, Mussoorie looks truly amazing during rainy period. It is really breathtaking to get a glimpse of clear blue sky with green vistas.

Monsoon Period: July to September

Best Activity: Sightseeing

Kausani—A Nature Trail to Trek

When it comes to top places to visit in India during monsoon, Kausani stands proudly as one of the favorites. Individuals looking for perfect clear views of the Himalayas must explore this small gem of Uttarakhand. It is a round-the year destination but if you want to have a glimpse of breathtaking beauty of Mother Nature then visit this place in the months of July till mid September.

Monsoon Period: July to September

Best Activity: Watch Nanda Ghunti, Trishul, Panchachuli and Chaukhamba peaks of Himalaya Mountain Range along with trekking.

Manali—Spectacular Show above the Sea

It is really a good idea to start India’s monsoon exploration from northern region. And your foremost stopover will definitely be Manali. No one can escape the perfect harmony of green landscapes and snow-covered peaks. Though it is little bit difficult to travel to Manali during rainy season but for adventure seekers it is the best time to trek the destination.

Monsoon Period: July to September

Best Activity: Trekking

Shimla—Gateway to Himalayas

With the dewy feel in the air that minimize the buzz of hot sun, it is time to throng Shimla, one of the most popular and beautiful hill stations of India. Showers showcase their play in Shimla on a routine basis but can’t fade the allure of this lovely city. Bliss of walk on lanes covered with fog or sipping your favourite coffee by a roadside eatery or just enjoying the lull of rain drops seems magical in its own.

Monsoon Period: July to September

Best Activity: Exploration

Monsoon Destinations in North-West India

Jaipur—Fresh Breeze of Rain Romance
After the sweltering summers it’s time to celebrate the onset of monsoon, especially if you are looking for a trip to Jaipur. Being an architectural jewel, the city comes alive with a refreshing new look of its forts and palaces during rainy season. Cloudy sky over your head brings a great respite from the sultry and scorching sunny days and thus makes Jaipur one of the most preferred monsoon getaways in the country.

Monsoon Period: June to September
Best Activity: Sightseeing

Udaipur—Place of Ripples
If you really love Udaipur and visit it again and again then this time schedule your plan in monsoon period. Life in Udaipur, like its beautiful lakes, is at its full bloom during these magical spells of clouds. Savour delicious ‘dil jani’ or give your taste buds a spicy treat of Dal Batti Churma, is another great monsoon delight in Udaipur. Don’t forget to capture your monsoon memories in lens.

Monsoon Period: July to September
Best Activity: Sightseeing and boating

Mount Abu—A Scenic Vista amidst Desert 
Being a hill station, Mount Abu is a round-the year place but it is eye-catching to watch this lovely destination when clouds cover up the sky and water drops come down to the earth. Mount Abu is the right choice for those who are looking for a perfect dose of nature, spirituality and adventure. There are numerous temples dotted all over the place. Adding to the beauty of this green sight are water-full waterfalls and scenic mountains romancing with mist.

Monsoon Period: August to September
Best Activity: Sightseeing and trekking

Pushkar—Journey to Relish
When it rains heavily in other parts of India, get up for a wonderful trip to Pushkar not just to let the dustballs making you screamed or the sultry sun giving you the tan. But to explore the beautiful and soothing side of Rajasthan. It is only during monsoon that Pushkar’s famous lake sheds its dry look. Imaging what is more romantic than an awakening peacock call, an early morning camel ride, a stroll around the market as an explorer, enjoying spicy Rajasthani dishes, watching sun going dawn and listening folk songs!

Monsoon Period: July to September
Best Activity: Sightseeing