Exploring the vast and diverse landscapes of India during the monsoon season is an unforgettable experience. The lush greenery, overflowing lakes, and majestic waterfalls create a mesmerizing backdrop, making these destinations a paradise for rain lovers. Here are some must-visit places in India during the monsoon that will make you fall in love with the rain.
1. Lonavala, Maharashtra
Nestled in the Sahyadri hills, Lonavala is a rain lover’s haven. The verdant environment, enhanced by beautiful waterfalls, is a sight to behold.
- Distance from the airport: 90 km
- Must-try: Savor hot Masala Chai with spicy Vada Pav and Bhajiyas.
- Highlights: Visit Tiger’s Leap, Bhushi Dam, and Della Adventure.
2. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
Kodaikanal, often referred to as the “Princess of Hill Stations,” is enchanting during the monsoon with its lakes, waterfalls, and lush hills.
- Distance from airport: 504 km
- Must-visit: Kodaikanal Lake, Coaker’s Walk, Bryant Park.
- Highlights: Enjoy outdoor activities like walking on the beach, swimming, and water sports.
3. Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Comprising around 570 islands, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are perfect for adventure and nature enthusiasts.
- Distance from airport: 31 km
- Must-visit: Havelock Island, Baratang, Radhanagar Beach.
- Highlights: Engage in thrilling water sports and witness breathtaking sunsets and sunrises.
4. Coorg, Karnataka
Known for its dense natural flora and fauna, Coorg is a romantic monsoon getaway with stunning waterfalls, lakes, and coffee plantations.
- Distance from airport: 285 km
- Must-visit: Abbey Falls, Raja’s Seat.
- Highlights: Adventure sports like trekking, mountaineering, and camping.
5. Munnar, Kerala
Munnar, a paradise in Kerala, is renowned for its misty hills and expansive tea gardens.
- Distance from the airport: 110 km
- Must-visit: Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, Anamudi.
- Highlights: Enjoy the serene atmosphere and pleasant climate.
6. Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh
Known as “Little Tibet,” Spiti Valley is mesmerizing during the monsoon with its unique landscape.
- Distance from the airport: 196 km
- Must-visit: River rafting and savoring Tibetan dishes like momos and noodles.
- Highlights: Experience the magic in the air and the stunning flora and fauna.
7. Leh & Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir
Leh & Ladakh, located in the Indus Valley, is captivating during the rainy season.
- Distance from airport: 2.4 km
- Must-visit: Camping, safari in Nubra Valley, Leh Palace.
- Highlights: Surrounded by vast mountain ranges and historic Buddhist monasteries like Shanti Stupa.
8. Valley of Flowers National Park, Uttarakhand
This high-altitude Himalayan valley offers a vibrant carpet of alpine flowers during the monsoon.
- Distance from airport: 295 km
- Must-visit: Trekking.
- Highlights: Home to around 300 different varieties of alpine flowers.
9. Goa
Monsoon transforms Goa into a lush paradise, offering more than just beaches.
- Must-visit: Butterfly Conservatory, Mandovi River Sunset Cruise.
- Highlights: Dudhsagar Falls, spice plantations, and historic buildings.
10. Periyar National Park, Kerala
Famous for its elephants and lush greenery, Periyar National Park is a wildlife enthusiast’s delight.
- Distance from airport: 158 km
- Must-visit: Elephant rides through the jungle.
- Highlights: The park is particularly beautiful during the monsoon.
11. Shillong, Meghalaya
Known as the “Scotland of the East,” Shillong is stunningly beautiful during the monsoon.
- Distance from the airport: 54 km
- Must-visit: Experience the music and vibrant life of the forests.
- Highlights: Enjoy the mild climate and lush landscapes.
12. Ranikhet, Uttarakhand
Perched at 6,000 feet, Ranikhet offers old-world charm and stunning views of the Himalayas.
- Distance from airport: 301 km
- Must-visit: Temples and the Golf Course.
- Highlights: Enjoy scenic walks among cedar and pine trees.
13. Udaipur, Rajasthan
Udaipur, with its picturesque lakes and palaces, is particularly enchanting during the monsoon.
- Must-visit: Bagore-ki-Haveli, ropeway rides.
- Highlights: Camel safaris and strolls along Lake Pichhola.
14. Manesar, Haryana
Close to Delhi, Manesar offers lush green landscapes and diverse wildlife.
- Must-visit: Lohagarh farms, NeverEnuf garden, Jungle Adventure.
- Highlights: Watch migratory birds and enjoy the greenery.
15. Kerala
Kerala, with its hill stations, coffee and tea plantations, and rich wildlife, is perfect during the monsoon.
- Must-visit: Houseboats and lighthouses.
- Highlights: Explore wildlife sanctuaries and national parks.
16. Himalayas
The Himalayas, with their snow-capped peaks and lush valleys, are a must-visit during the monsoon.
- Distance from airport: 50 km
- Must-visit: Trekking and mountain biking.
- Highlights: Ideal for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
17. Neemrana Fort, Rajasthan
This historical fort is breathtaking during the rainy season.
- Distance from airport: 163 km
- Must-visit: Vintage car drives.
- Highlights: Enjoy romantic walks, swimming, and the fort’s historical charm.
18. Lansdowne, Uttarakhand
Lansdowne is a serene hill station perfect for peaceful walks and trekking amidst tall trees.
- Distance from airport: 144 km
- Must-visit: Trekking.
- Highlights: Scenic beauty and tranquility.
19. Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary, Haryana
A haven for bird watchers, Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary is especially beautiful during the monsoon.
- Distance from airport: 14 km
- Must-visit: Observe the flora and fauna.
- Highlights: Scenic beauty perfect for photography.
20. Okhla Bird Sanctuary, Delhi
Close to Delhi, the Okhla Bird Sanctuary offers picturesque beauty and a variety of bird species.
- Distance from airport: 24 km
- Must-visit: Bird watching.
- Highlights: Ideal for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
Explore these breathtaking destinations during the monsoon and experience the unparalleled beauty and charm of Incredible India.