Rainy Escapes: Exploring India's Offbeat Destinations in the Monsoon Season
As the monsoon season sets in, many popular tourist destinations in India are usually avoided by travelers. However, India is full of hidden gems that are best explored during the monsoon season. Here are some offbeat destinations that are perfect for travelers looking to explore India during the monsoon:
Mawlynnong, Meghalaya
Located in the northeastern state of Meghalaya, Mawlynnong is a charming village that is often referred to as the "cleanest village in Asia". With its lush greenery, stunning waterfalls, and unique living root bridges, Mawlynnong is a paradise for nature lovers.
Valparai, Tamil Nadu
Nestled in the Western Ghats, Valparai is a picturesque hill station that is relatively untouched by tourists. With its mist-covered hills, sprawling tea estates, and glistening waterfalls, Valparai is the perfect destination for a serene monsoon getaway.
Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh
Located in the northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh, Ziro is a quaint town that is home to the Apatani tribe. Surrounded by rolling hills, rice paddies, and forests, Ziro is a great destination for trekkers and nature lovers.
Chikmagalur, Karnataka
Known for its coffee plantations and lush greenery, Chikmagalur is a popular destination for travelers seeking a peaceful retreat. With its misty hills, glistening waterfalls, and serene forests, Chikmagalur is the perfect destination for a monsoon escape.
Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
Often referred to as the "Princess of Hill Stations", Kodaikanal is a charming town nestled in the Palani Hills of Tamil Nadu. With its stunning views of the Western Ghats, serene lakes, and lush greenery, Kodaikanal is a great destination for a relaxing monsoon getaway. During the monsoon season, the region comes alive with numerous waterfalls, lush greenery, and misty mountains. Visitors can go on treks, nature walks, or simply enjoy the beauty of the region.
Munnar
The beautiful hill station of Munnar is located in the Western Ghats and is known for its sprawling tea plantations, rolling hills, and misty weather. During the monsoon season, the region comes alive with lush greenery and numerous waterfalls. Visitors can go on nature walks, trekking, or simply relax in the serene surroundings.
Thekkady
Thekkady is a popular wildlife destination in Kerala and is known for its beautiful Periyar National Park. The monsoon season brings a new life to the forest, with animals coming out to enjoy the cool and wet climate. Visitors can go on jungle safaris, bamboo rafting, and enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
Cherrapunji
Located in Meghalaya, Cherrapunji is one of the wettest places on earth and is a perfect destination for monsoon lovers. The region is known for its breathtaking waterfalls, lush green forests, and unique living root bridges. Visitors can explore the region on treks or simply enjoy the monsoon rains in the tranquil surroundings.
Coorg
Located in Karnataka, Coorg is a beautiful hill station that is known for its coffee plantations, scenic beauty, and misty weather. During the monsoon season, the region comes alive with numerous waterfalls and greenery. Visitors can go on nature walks, treks, or simply relax in the beautiful surroundings.
Shillong
Shillong is the capital of Meghalaya and is known for its natural beauty, waterfalls, and hill stations. During the monsoon season, the region comes alive with numerous waterfalls and greenery. Visitors can go on treks, explore the natural beauty of the region or simply enjoy the cool and misty climate.
Goa
Goa is a popular beach destination in India and is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and seafood. During the monsoon season, the region is less crowded, and visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the region, explore the waterfalls, and indulge in adventure activities.
Wayanad
Wayanad is a popular destination in Kerala and is known for its natural beauty, wildlife, and coffee plantations. During the monsoon season, the region comes alive with lush greenery, numerous waterfalls, and misty mountains. Visitors can go on treks, nature walks, explore the wildlife, or simply relax in the serene surroundings.
Mahabaleshwar
Mahabaleshwar is a popular hill station in Maharashtra and is known for its scenic beauty, waterfalls, and strawberry farms. During the monsoon season, the region comes alive with numerous waterfalls and greenery. Visitors can go on treks, nature walks, or simply relax in the beautiful surroundings.
Coonoor
Coonoor is a beautiful hill station located in Tamil Nadu and is known for its scenic beauty, tea plantations, and misty weather. During the monsoon season, the region comes alive with numerous waterfalls and greenery. Visitors can go on treks, explore the tea plantations, or simply relax in the tranquil surroundings.
Nelliyampathi
Nelliyampathi in monsoon is a sight to behold. The lush green mountains and valleys, the cool breeze, and the serene waterfalls make it a perfect destination for nature lovers. The monsoon season, which starts in June and lasts until September, transforms the landscape into a picturesque wonderland. The tea and spice plantations are in full bloom, and the aroma of the fresh leaves and flowers fills the air. Visitors can enjoy trekking, hiking, and camping in the hills while taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding forests. The cascading waterfalls and gushing streams are a sight to behold, and one can spend hours listening to the soothing sound of the waterfalls. Overall, Nelliyampathi in monsoon offers a peaceful retreat in the lap of nature.
These offbeat destinations in India offer a unique experience that is best explored during the monsoon season. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the beauty of India's offbeat destinations.
