10 Best Monsoon Places in India

Here is the list of the best monsoon places in India:

1. Munnar & Alleppey, Kerala
2. Coorg, Karnataka
3. Cherrapunji & Shillong, Meghalaya
4. Udaipur & Mount Abu, Rajasthan
5. Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh
6. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
7. Goa
8. Mahabaleshwar & Lonavala, Maharashtra
9. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
10. Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Introduction to Best Monsoon Places in India

India’s monsoon season offers respite from the scorching heat, painting the country’s vast landscape with vibrant shades of green and filling the air with a refreshing, earthy scent. Experiencing monsoon tourism in India is all about witnessing nature in its true glory and the cultural festivals that accompany the best monsoon places in India.

Whether you are considering a relaxing hill retreat or the lush landscape of a rural area, you will find monsoon holidays in the best monsoon places in India.

Munnar, Kerala (best monsoon places in India)

Munnar is a paradise that blooms in its full glory during the monsoons. The rolling tea plantations and low-hanging clouds create a charming atmosphere that attracts innumerable tourists and is one of the best monsoon places in India.

Places to Visit:

• Munnar Tea Plantation: Enjoy the rolling hills and tea plantations.
• Echo Point: Hear your voice echo back.
• Kundla Lake: Enjoy boating and beautiful views.
• Top Station: Witness the stunning views of the Western Ghats.
• Mattupetty Dam: Enjoy the scenic natural beauty and wildlife.
• Rajamalai (Eravikulam) National Park: Spot the Nilgiri Tahr (mountain goat).

Things to do:

• Trekking: Explore the hills and forests.
• Wildlife Safari: Spot wildlife in the national park.
• Boating: Enjoy boat rides in Kundala Lake and Mattupetty Dam.
• Tea Tasting: Experience the taste of Munnar tea.
• Spice Plantation Visit: Learn about the cultivation of spices like cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon.

Tinder Travel Tips:

• Pack warm clothes as it gets cold in the evenings.
• Carry comfortable shoes for trekking and walking around.
• Don’t forget to watch the sunrise from the hilltops.
• Taste the local delicacies like Idiyappam and Appam.
• Respect the environment and avoid littering.

Accommodation:

• Luxury resorts: Windermere Estate, The Leaf Munnar, and Tea Valley Resort.
• Budget-friendly options: Treebo Trend Munnar Inn, Munnar Inn, and Hotel Hill View.

Famous Food:

• Appam and Prawn Curry: A traditional Kerala dish made of rice and coconut milk, served with delicious prawn curry.
• Puttu and Kadala Curry: A classic breakfast combination made of steamed rice cakes (puttu) and spicy chickpea curry (kadala curry).
• Idiyappam with Egg Curry: A popular breakfast dish made of steamed rice noodles (idiyappam) served with delicious egg curry.
• Beef Fry and Malabar Parotta: A spicy beef fry dish served with flaky, flaky parotta (flat bread).
• Kairali Thali: A traditional Kerala thali served on a banana leaf, consisting of vegetable pachadi, elaaneer payasam, mezhukku purattai and many more.

How to get there:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (COK), 110 km away. Taxis or bus services are available from the airport to Munnar.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Aluva (AWY), 120 km away. Taxis or bus services are available from the station to Munnar.
• By Road: Kochi is well connected by bus services to major cities like Kottayam and Thrissur.

Best time to visit: September to November and January to March.

Coorg, Karnataka (Best Monsoon Places in India)

Nestled between the Western Ghats, Coorg offers a misty ambiance with vast coffee plantations and lush green hills, which is a sight to behold during monsoons. The rains add a new glow to this beautiful place, making it ideal for the best monsoon places in India for nature lovers and peace seekers.

Places to visit:

• Madikeri
• Madikeri Fort
• King’s Seat
• King’s Tomb
• Abbey Falls
• Omkareshwara Temple
• Dubare Elephant Camp
• Bailakuppe
• Bhagamandala
• Talakaveri
  

Things to do:

• Dubare Elephant Camp: Play, bathe, and ride with the elephants.
• Golden Temple: Experience the Tibetan culture.
• Abbey Falls: Click pictures.
• Trekking: Trek through the beautiful routes of the Western Ghats.
• Food Tour: Taste the local flavors of Coorg.
• Coffee Plantation Tour: Surround yourself with endless greenery.
• Camping: Camp on the riverbanks and in the woods.
• Cauvery River: Go fishing.
• Homestay: Experience the Coorgi lifestyle.
• Barapole: Enjoy river rafting.
• Jeep Safari: Explore Kabbe Hills and Nishani Hills.
• Hiking: Hike to Raja’s Seat.
• Madikeri Fort: Take a heritage tour.
• Quad Biking: Traverse through the muddy roads.
• Wildlife Safari: Visit Nagarhole National Park.
• Bird Watching: Visit Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Holy Bath: Visit Talacauvery.
• Rappling: See the Chelavara Falls.
• Microlight Flying: Experience the thrill of flying like a bird.
• Civet Creek Camp: Experience the thrill and adventure.
• Iruppu Falls: Witness the cold waters.
• Misty Rainforest: Experience the adventurous thrill.
• Cycling Trip to Kote Betta: Ride in the fresh air.
• Kushalnagar: Experience the greenery.
• Night Mountain Drive: Face the thrill of the night.
• Talacauvery: Experience the peace.
• Nisargadham: Enjoy the natural beauty.

Tinder Travel Tips

• Be cautious while trekking and hiking.
• Avoid traveling alone at night.
• Keep your valuables safe.
• Respect the local culture and traditions.
• Avoid drinking tap water and drink bottled water instead.

Accommodation

• Tamara Coorg
• Coorg Marriott Resort & Spa
• School Estate
• Kadkani River Resort

Famous Food:

• Dry Fish
• Crab Meat
• Bamboo Shoots
• Bramble Curry
• Chicken Curry with Jackfruit

How to get there:

• By Rail: The nearest railway station is at Mysore, which offers excellent rail connectivity with many major cities.
• By Road: Public buses from various cities like Bangalore, Hassan, and Mysore are available.
• By Air: The nearest airports are Bangalore and Mangalore.

Best Time to Visit: October to February

Cherrapunji & Shillong, Meghalaya (best monsoon places in India)

Shillong, known as the ‘Abode of the Clouds’, becomes a spectacular sight during the monsoons. Heavy rainfall turns the city green and makes its waterfalls – such as the Elephant Falls and Shillong Peak – a sight to behold, and visit India during rain season.

Places to visit:

• Nohkalikai Falls: One of the tallest waterfalls in India, surrounded by lush green trees.
• Mavasai Caves: A network of caves with impressive limestone formations.
• Living Root Bridge: A natural wonder of bridges made from the roots of ancient trees.
• Umiam Lake: A serene lake with picturesque surroundings.
• Elephanta Falls: A majestic waterfall surrounded by lush green forests.

Things to do:

• Trekking: Explore the beautiful trails and hills of Meghalaya.
• Caves: Discover the fascinating caves of Mawsmai and Krem Phillut.
• Boat ride: Enjoy a serene boat ride on the crystal-clear waters of Umiam Lake or Dawki.
• Village visit: Visit Mawlynnong, Asia’s cleanest village, and experience the local culture.
• Adventure sports: Try rock climbing, zip lining, or rappelling in the picturesque surroundings.

Tinder Travel Tips:

• Best Time: Visit during the winter months (October to March) for a comfortable trip.
• Clothing: Pack warm clothes for the cold weather, especially in winter.
• Footwear: Wear comfortable trekking shoes or boots for rough terrain.
• Rain Gear: Carry an umbrella or raincoat as the weather can be unpredictable.
• Responsible Tourism: Respect the local environment and culture and avoid littering or damaging the natural beauty.

Accommodation:

• Hotels: Choose from hotels ranging from budget-friendly to luxury options in Shillong and Cherrapunji.
• Homestay: Experience local hospitality by staying with a family in a homestay.
• Campsite: Pitch your tent or stay at a campsite amid the natural beauty of Meghalaya.

Famous Foods:

• Jadoh: A traditional Khasi dish made of rice and meat or fish.
• Momos: Steamed dumplings filled with meat or vegetables.
• Thukpa: A delicious noodle soup made with vegetables or meat.
• Smoked Pork: A local delicacy made by smoking pork over wood.
• Betel Nut: A popular snack made from the nuts of the betel nut tree.

How to get there:

By air: The nearest airport is Guwahati International Airport (GAU), which is connected to major cities in India.

By train: The nearest railway station is Guwahati Railway Station (GHY), which is connected to major cities in India.

By road: Shillong is connected to Guwahati and other cities in the Northeast by a network of roads.

Best time to visit: October to March

Udaipur & Mount Abu, Rajasthan (best monsoon places in India)

Contrary to the common arid portrayals of Rajasthan, Udaipur in India during the rainy season is a wonderful amalgamation of waterlogged architecture and lush green mountains. It is one of the beautiful monsoon regions of India where visitors can enjoy boat rides on the sparkling lakes and explore the royal heritage in pleasant weather.

Places to Visit:

• Lake Palace: A beautiful palace located in the middle of the lake which has been converted into a hotel.
• Vintage Car Museum: A museum displaying a collection of vintage cars from the royal era.
• City Palace: A 16th-century palace with an impressive architectural style.
• Nakki Lake: A beautiful lake in Mount Abu with a scenic view.
• Kumbhalgarh Fort: A 30-km-long walled city at an altitude of 1900 m above sea level.

Things to Do:

• Boating: Enjoy boating in Pichola Lake and Nakki Lake.
• Ropeway: Experience a ropeway ride to the Karni Mata Temple.
• Shopping: Visit the local markets and buy authentic Rajasthani prints.
• Cruising: Enjoy a cruise in Nakki Lake at sunset.
• Sightseeing: Explore temples, spiritual places, and historical monuments.

Tinder Travel Tips:

• Clothing: Pack light cotton clothes, comfortable shoes, and umbrellas.
• Sun Protection: Carry sunscreen lotion and sunglasses.
• Camera: Bring a camera with extra batteries.
• Responsible Tourism: Respect the local environment and culture.

Accommodation:

• Hotels: Choose from hotels ranging from budget-friendly to luxury options in Udaipur and Mount Abu.
• Homestay: Experience the local hospitality by staying with family in a homestay.
• Resort: Enjoy a luxurious stay in a resort with beautiful views.

Famous Foods:

• Daal Baati Churma: A traditional Rajasthani dish made of lentils, wheat roti, and sweet dishes.
• Laal Maas: A spicy curry made of lamb and a variety of spices.
• Gatta Ki Sabzi: A curry made of gram flour and a variety of spices.
• Kachori: A crispy snack made of flour and a variety of spices.
• Mawa Kachori: A sweet snack made of flour, milk, and a variety of nuts.

How to get there:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Udaipur Airport (UDR), which is connected to major cities in India.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Udaipur Railway Station (UDR), which is connected to major cities in India.
• By Road: Udaipur and Mount Abu are connected to major cities in Rajasthan by a network of roads.

Best Time to Visit: July to September

Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh (best monsoon places in India)

Spiti Valley, located in Himachal Pradesh, is a beautiful and remote valley surrounded by the Himalayas. It is one of the best monsoon places in India for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those looking for peaceful relaxation.

Places to Visit:

• Key Monastery: A 1,000-year-old Buddhist monastery famous for its stunning architecture and spiritual significance.
• Dhankar Lake: A beautiful lake surrounded by mountains that offers breathtaking views.
• Kunzum Pass: A high pass with stunning views of the Himalayas.
• Chandratal Lake: A beautiful lake with crystal-clear waters and a serene atmosphere.
• Tabo Monastery: A historic monastery known for its ancient frescoes and sculptures.

Things to Do:

• Trekking: Explore beautiful trails and hike to nearby villages and monasteries.
• Camping: Camp in the beautiful valleys and enjoy stargazing.
• Rafting: Experience white-water rafting in the Spiti River.
• Yak Safari: Take a yak ride and explore the valley.
• Stargazing: Enjoy the clear night sky and gaze at the stars.

Tinder Travel Tips:

• Acclimatization: Spend a day or two in Shimla or Manali to acclimatize to the altitude.
• Pack Warm Clothes: Bring warm clothes and multiple layers for the cold weather.
• Road Conditions: Be prepared for rough roads and landslides.
• Limited Connectivity: Be prepared for limited phone and internet connectivity.
• Responsible Tourism: Respect the local culture and environment.

Accommodation:

• Homestay: Stay with local families and experience their hospitality.
• Campsite: Camp in beautiful locations.
• Hotels: Choose from several hotels in Kaza and other towns.
• Monastery Stay: Stay in monasteries and experience the spiritual atmosphere.
• Trekking Lodge: Stay in lodges along the trekking trails.

Famous Foods:

• Thukpa: Hearty noodle soup made with vegetables or meat.
• Momos: Steamed dumplings filled with meat or vegetables.
• Siddhu: Local bread made with wheat flour and yeast.
• Khol: A type of porridge made from wheat flour and milk.
• Chhaa: A type of butter tea made from tea leaves, milk, and butter.

How to get there:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport (KUU), which is connected to major cities in India.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Shimla Railway Station (SML), which is connected to major cities in India.
• By Road: Spiti Valley is connected to major cities in Himachal Pradesh by a network of roads.

Best Time to Visit: May to September

Rishikesh, Uttarakhand (best monsoon places in India)

Ranikhet, with its alpine forests, ancient temples, and Himalayan views, offers an enchanting, mist-covered ambiance in the monsoon. It is ideal for those who seek solitude and a direct connection with nature during their seasonal trip to the best monsoon places in India.

Places to visit:

• Laxman Jhula: A famous iron suspension bridge
• Laxman Temple: A temple dedicated to Lord Lakshman
• Tera Manzil Temple: A multi-story temple with several small temples
• Triveni Ghat: Confluence of three rivers
• Ram Jhula: An iron suspension bridge

Things to do:

• Morning yoga at Ganga Ghat
• Bungee jumping
• Visit Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
• River rafting
• Camping in Shivpuri

Tinder Travel tips:

• Rishikesh is easily accessible from major cities
• Rishikesh is a spiritual place, so dress modestly
• Taste local foods like veg momos and veg burgers
• Book accommodation well in advance
• Be prepared for crowds during peak season

Accommodation:

• Blue Jay Hostel: Budget-friendly
• Backpacker Panda Rishikesh: Budget-friendly
• Hotel Yoga Tapovan: Mid-range
• Hotel Grace Ganga: The Himalayan Retreat: Moderate Range

Famous Foods:

• Veg Momos
• Veg Burger
• Chole Bhature
• Lassi
• Jalebi

How to get there:

• By Road: Rishikesh is connected to major cities via bus or private vehicle
• By Train: Nearest railway station is Haridwar Railway Station
• By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant in Dehradun

Best Time to Visit: September to June, March

Goa (One of the best monsoon places in India)

Goa is often known for its vibrant beach life, during monsoon it transforms into a romantic, less crowded landscape with rivers and the lively Sao Joao festival. This is a time when nature lovers can witness the greenery around the waterfalls and the spice plantations in full bloom which are the best monsoon places in India.

Places to Visit:

• Old Goa: A famous Roman Catholic pilgrimage site
• Basilica of Bom Jesus: A church with the relics of St. Francis Xavier
• Se Cathedral: The largest church in Asia
• Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception: A spiritual and geographical center of Panjim
• Dudhsagar Falls: A waterfall with a pool for swimming

Things to Do:

• Visit the spice gardens
• Take a yoga class on the beach
• Take a bike ride
• Take a sunset cruise
• Go clubbing

Travel Tips:

• Try to avoid traveling during the monsoon season (June to September)
• Book accommodation in advance
• Try the local seafood
• Be prepared for crowds during peak season
• Do not drink the tap water

Accommodations:

• Phoenicia Riverside Resort
• Beach Street Eco Resort & Spa
• Amritara Aura Resort & Spa
• Crystal Goa Emerald Edition
• The Grand Leonie Resort

Famous Foods:

• Seafood
• Shrimp Curry
• Bhelpuri: A spicy snack
• Bebinca: A dessert
• Sorpotel: A meat stew

How to get there:

• By air: Goa has an international airport at Dabolim and a new airport, Manohar International Airport, in North Goa
• By road: Goa is connected to major cities via bus or personal vehicle
• By train: Goa has two main train stations, Vasco da Gama and Madgaon

Best time to visit:

• Mid-October to mid-March for peak season
• June to September for the monsoon season
• March to May for the summer season
• November to February for the winter season

Mahabaleshwar & Lonavala, Maharashtra (best monsoon places in India)

Mahabaleshwar and Lonavala are two popular hill stations in Maharashtra, India, known for their beautiful scenery, temples, caves, waterfalls, and scenic views.

Mahabaleshwar is famous for its strawberry farms and temples, such as the Mahabaleshwar Temple and Panch Ganga Temple, which is one of the best monsoon places in India, while Lonavala is famous for its caves such as the Karla Caves and beautiful views of Lion Point and Tiger Leap.

Both destinations offer a relaxing getaway from urban life and are perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Places to Visit:

• Mahabaleshwar Temple, Panch Ganga Temple, Krishnabai Temple, Elphinstone Point, Savitri Point (Mahabaleshwar)
• Karla Caves, Lion Point, Tiger Leap, Bhushi Dam, Aamby Valley (Lonavala)

Things to Do:

• Visit the famous Mahabaleshwar Temple and Karla Caves
• Take a scenic drive to Elphinstone Point and Lion Point
• Enjoy the views of Savitri Point and Tiger Leap
• Discover Panch Ganga Temple and Bhushi Dam
• Take a boat ride on Venna Lake and visit Aamby Valley

Tinder Travel Tips:

• Book accommodation well in advance for both destinations
• Taste local strawberries in Mahabaleshwar and chikki in Lonavala
• Be prepared for crowds during peak season in both destinations
• Wear comfortable shoes for trekking in both destinations
• Don’t miss watching the sunset at Bombay Point in Mahabaleshwar and Lion Point in Lonavala

Accommodation:

• Hotel Lake View, Hotel Shreyas, Hotel Panorama, Hotel Saket Plaza, Hotel Ravi Kiran (Mahabaleshwar)
• Hotel Rama Krishna, Hotel Gurudev, Hotel Shivneri, Hotel Lions Den, Hotel Chandralok (Lonavala)

Famous Food:

Strawberry with Cream, Vada Pav, Pani Puri, Misal Pav, Bhel Puri (both destinations)

How to get there:

• By Air: Pune Airport (PNQ) is the nearest airport, which is 120 km from Mahabaleshwar and 60 km from Lonavala
• By Road: Both destinations are connected to major cities via bus or private vehicle
• By Train: Pune Railway Station is the nearest railway station, which is 120 km from Mahabaleshwar and 60 km from Lonavala

Best Time to Visit: December to May

Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu (best monsoon places in India)

Kodaikanal is a beautiful hill station in Tamil Nadu which is one of the best places monsoon places in India. It has a blend of natural beauty, religious significance, and adventure opportunities. It is famous for its lakes, waterfalls, and temples.

Places to Visit:

• Coaker’s Walk
• Kodaikanal Lake
• Berijam Lake
• Pillar Rocks
• Dolphin’s Nose

Things to Do:

• Boat ride on Kodaikanal Lake
• Trek to Dolphin’s Nose
• Explore Berijam Lake
• Hike Coaker’s Walk
• Visit Pillar Rocks

Tinder Travel Tips:

• Plan your trip during the off-season to avoid crowds.
• Book accommodation well in advance.
• Pack comfortable shoes for trekking.
• Don’t forget to watch the sunset at Coaker’s Walk.
• Respect the local environment and wildlife.

Accommodation:

• Hotel Lake View
• Hotel Shreyas
• Hotel Panorama

Famous Food:

• Idli
• Dosa
• Vada
• Sambhar
• Pongal

How to get there:

• By Air: Madurai Airport (IXM)
• By Train: Kodaikanal Road Railway Station (KQN)
• By Road: Bus services are available from major cities

Best time to visit: December to May

Andaman and Nicobar Islands

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a union territory of India located in the Bay of Bengal and are Top Indian destinations in monsoon, known for their spectacular beaches, coral reefs, and diverse wildlife. These islands are a popular destination for water sports, adventure activities, and relaxation.

Places to Visit:

• Port Blair
• Havelock Island
• Neil Island
• Baratang Island
• Diglipur

Things to do:

• Snorkeling and scuba diving at Havelock Island
• Visit the Cellular Jail in Port Blair
• Explore the mangrove forests at Baratang Island
• Relax on the beaches of Neil Island
• Trek to the highest point in Diglipur

Tinder Travel Tips:

• Plan your trip during the off-season to avoid the crowds.
• Book accommodation and ferry tickets well in advance.
• Pack light and comfortable clothes.
• Don’t forget to watch the sunset at Havelock Island.
• Respect the local environment and wildlife.

Accommodation:

• Hotel Shompen, Port Blair
• Hotel Sea Shell, Havelock Island
• Hotel Neil Island, Neil Island

Famous food:

• Seafood (fish, prawns, crabs)
• Coconut water
• Curries made with coconut milk
• Rice and dal
• Fresh fruits (coconut, bananas, mangoes)

How to get there:

• By air: Veer Savarkar International Airport, Port Blair (IXZ)
• By sea: Regular ferry services from Chennai, Kolkata and Visakhapatnam

Best time to visit: October to May

Conclusion

India turns into a lush green paradise during monsoons in India, and many places come alive with the rains. One of the best monsoon places in India to enjoy the monsoons to the fullest is Kerala, often referred to as “God’s own country”.

The backwaters here are more picturesque, and the countryside looks freshly washed and wonderfully green. Munnar, with its vast tea plantations, looks incredibly beautiful even in the best monsoon places in India. Goa is another best monsoon places in India, where the beaches may be restricted for swimming due to the rough seas, but the beautiful waterfalls and lush green landscapes are a gift for nature lovers.

Coorg in Karnataka, also known as the ‘Scotland of India’ Is one of the best monsoon places in India, offers misty hills and coffee plantations that are one of the best monsoon places in India. Finally, the Ghats of Maharashtra such as Lonavala and Khandala offer spectacular views of waterfalls and greenery, making them perfect for those who enjoy a humid, cool climate. These destinations offer a unique experience, each of which transforms into vibrant hubs of life, energized by the best monsoon places in India.

FAQs (best monsoon places in India)