15 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Monsoon in India

There is no better time than the monsoon season to explore the length and breadth of India. The flowers bloom in full glory, mountains turn into lush green forest trails, and waterfalls start to gush in full swing when the rain starts to make its way to different parts of India and turn it into the haven paradise that it is.

After a lot of thinking and researching, we have made a list for every kind of traveler. Below are the 15 best places to visit in India during the monsoon season to explore India and get spellbound with the jaw-dropping lush landscapes.

1. Lonavala, Maharashtra

Nestled among the Sahyadri mountain ranges and the ghats, Lonavala is the best place to visit in India during the monsoon. Located only about 83 km away, this is one of the most alluring and green towns in Mumbai. 

How to reach- The nearest airport is Mumbai airport approx. 89 km away. It takes about 1 hour 50 minutes from Mumbai (89 km), and 1 hour 16 minutes from Pune (83 km) by road to reach Lonavala. 

Things to do- Trekking, hiking, camping, horse riding, sightseeing

Popular Attractions- Embark on a rejuvenating hike to Nagphani or famous as “Duke’s Nose” point, capture the raging waterfall at The Tiger Point cliff top, pay homage at Shree Narayani Dham temple, visit the remarkable Karla caves built around 3rd BC by Buddhist Monks, and explore the scenic sites and breathtaking waterfalls.

Weather in Monsoon- The temperature reaches between 22-27 C with frequent rain showers.

2. Goa:

Goa is a popular monsoon destination in India for its beaches, amazing nightlife, and boho culture. This vibrant city is on the dream list of every traveler. The land of beaches becomes more colorful and vibrant with never ocean and scenic greenery all around that will leave you spellbound in its beauty.

How to reach- The nearest airport is Goa International airport. A road trip is the ultimate adventure in monsoon, which takes about 9 hours 15 minutes from Mumbai (594 km), and 5 hours 30 minutes from Pune (458 km) by road. Madgaon and Vasco-da-Gama are well connected major railway stations.

Things to do- Scuba diving, parasailing, skiing, white river rafting, kayaking, hiking, camping, and much more.

Popular Attractions- Go for a trek to the famous Dudhsagar Waterfall, visit the 17th century Aguada Fort, UNESCO listed Basilica of Bom Jesus, and experience the wildlife closely at Bondla Sanctuary, gamble at the rich casinos, Baga Beach for a hippie nightlife, and more.

Weather in Monsoon- The weather is soothing during the monsoon that reaching between 28-30 C

3. Munnar, Kerela:

South states of India are heaven with lush green rolling hills and capturing its beauty when drenched with rainfall makes Munnar a must-visit place during monsoon in India. Witness the God’s Own Country with cloud-kissed mountains, a lush backdrop of green hills, home to the endangered mountain goat, Lakkam Waterfalls, and the highest peak in the Western Ghats.

How to reach- A road trip from Cochin to Munnar will take approx. 3 hours and 44 minutes by road, which covers about 131 km. The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (110 km away) and Madurai International Airport (140 km away). The railway station at Aluva is the nearest one (110 km).

Things to do- Trekking, sightseeing, tea plantation tours, jeep safari, rock climbing, biking, and camping.

Popular Attractions- Spot the exotic wildlife at Eravikulam National Park, explore small waterfalls and hiking trails at Attukad Waterfalls, trek the highest western ghats peak- Anamudi, and capture the mesmerizing panoramic view of tea plantation on hills.

Weather in Monsoon- The weather remains pleasant with regular rainfall and an average temperature between 23-34 C.

4. Coorg, Karnataka:

The coffee plantations, valleys with blooming flowers, and natural serenity all around are indeed a cheerful sight to capture and make Coorg the best place to visit in India during the monsoon season. Often called Scotland of India, the majestic beauty of this hilly town with pleasant cold weather is such a dream escape from a hustling life.

How to reach- The nearest airport is in Mysore (approx. 120 km away), Mangalore (approx. 160 km), and Bengaluru (approx. 265 km away). Embark on an exciting road trip from Bangalore about 270 km away.

Things to do- Elephant rides, wildlife safari, nature walks, trekking and coffee plantation tours.

Popular Attractions- Pleasant your eyes with the famous Abbey Falls, Raja’s Seat for picturesque sunset views, learn about Tibetan culture at Bylakuppe, visit the second highest waterfalls in India- Jog Falls, and embark on refreshing hiking on rugged mountain trails.

Weather in Monsoon- The weather is soothing during the monsoon reaching between 23-16 C.

5. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu:

Kodaikanal is a hill station in Tamil Nadu. Situated in the area of granite cliffs, it is also known as ‘Princess of Hill Stations”. The enchanting waterfalls, lakes, lush green valleys, and grassy hills come more alive during the monsoon making it a paradise place to visit in India.

How to reach- The nearest airport is Madurai (approx. 120 km away), Trichy (approx. 150 km), and Coimbatore (approx. 175 km away). Embark on a beautiful road trip from Bangalore that takes approx. 9 hours to cover about 490 km of distance.

Things to do- Boating, fishing, rock climbing, nature walks, trekking, and sightseeing.

Popular Attractions- Visit the man-made Kodai Lake for beautiful sights, hike to the season Bear Shola Waterfalls and Silver Cascade Falls, stroll on Coakers Walk and hike to scenic Palani Hills.

Weather in Monsoon- The weather is soothing during the monsoon reaching between 28-20 C.

6. Pondicherry:

Formerly a French Colonial settlement in India until 1954, Pondicherry is a postcard-perfect place in India during the monsoon surrounded by tree-lined streets, old mustard-colored colonial villas, and chic boutiques, and unspoiled beaches. The rainy months add a cool ambiance and lush green scenery makes the place a perfect escapade.

How to reach- The nearest airport is Puducherry Airport (approx. 10 km away), others are in Madras (approx. 122km), and Tiruchirapalli (approx. 178 km away). Go on a refreshing road trip from Chennai about 160 km away. The closest railway is in Villupuram about 35 km away.

Things to do- Boating, Scuba diving, biking, sightseeing, parting, and shopping

Popular Attractions- Walk by the pristine Paradise Beach, botanical gardens for rich flora and fauna, heritage buildings, ancient temples, and serenity retreats and lakes.

Weather in Monsoon- The weather is soothing during the monsoon reaching between 30-25 C.

7. Wayanad, Kerala:

Located in God’s Own Country, Wayanad is one of the best places to visit during monsoon in India with lush padded fields, rolling hills, rich coffee plantation, flora and fauna, and a variety of breathtaking waterfalls. Take part in the full monsoon swing at the famous festival- The Splash.

How to reach- The nearest airport is Calicut International Airport (approx. 65km away). The closest railhead is in Kozhikode about 110 km away. Embark on an exciting road trip through Nilambur road via NH 17.

Things to do- Wildlife safari, caving, nature walks, camping, trekking, ziplining, cycling, and coffee plantation tours.

Popular Attractions- Visit the Edakkal Caves dating back to the Neolithic age, Banasura Hills for day hikes amid forested mountains, cascading waterfalls, and honeymooner’s site at Kolagappara, capture the spellbinding sunrise from Sunrise Valley, and the most-awaited monsoon carnival- The Splash.

Weather in Monsoon- The weather is soothing during the monsoon reaching between 30-24 C.

8. Malshej Ghats, Maharashtra:

Snuggled in the Western Ghats range of Maharashtra, Malshej Ghat is a mountainous pass and is a very popular destination in India that reveals its unreal beauty during the monsoon season. It is famous for cascading waterfalls, alluring lakes, rugged lush mountains, and rich flora and fauna. 

How to reach- The nearest airport is in Mumbai about 120 km away, and Pune approx. 91 km away. The closest railway station is Kalyan Railway Station about 85 km away from the town. Embark on a fun road trip of about 3 hours via NH 222 from Pune.

Things to do- Bird watching, nature walks, trekking, and sightseeing.

Popular Attractions- Enjoy bird watching at Pimpalgaon Joga Dam, Naneghat for breathtaking mountain trails and caves, and many gushing waterfalls with amazing sunrise and sunset spots.

Weather in Monsoon- The weather is soothing during the monsoon reaching between 30-25 C.

9. Spiti, Himachal Pradesh:

Also popular as “Small Tibet”, Spiti Valley is quite a popular destination in North India, especially during monsoons with cloud-covered mountains, mystical rains, and freshly bloomed flowers surrounding the entire region. Spiti means “the middle land” and is situated between Tibet and India. Famous for its old monasteries and Tibetan culture a place that has an enigmatic aura will leave you bewitched.

How to reach- The nearest airport is in Bhuntar near Kullu about 245 km away. The closest railway station is Joginder Nagar Railway Station about 360 km away from the town. The best way to explore Spiti Valley is through a road trip from Manali or Shimla.

Things to do- Small hiking trails, camping, photographing wildlife, and sightseeing.

Popular Attractions- Visit famous ancient monasteries such as Tabo, Key Gompa, and Kaza monastery, drive to the world’s highest village- KOMIC, and hike to the Chandratal Lake during the full moon.

Weather in Monsoon- The weather is soothing during the monsoon reaching between 10-4 C.

10. Valley of Flowers, Uttarakhand:

Valley of Flowers is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand and is the most visited place in India during the monsoon. The valley is an Indian National Park established in 1982 and is now a UNESCO heritage site. Blessed with the exotic Himalayan flora, the valley changes its color throughout the monsoon season as over 300 different species of flowers bloom across the valley. So, grab your raincoat and be ready to capture the valley in rich hues.

How to reach- The nearest airport is in Dehradun about 245 km away. The closest railway station is in Rishikesh about 270 km away from the town. Road trip to Govindghat and trek from there to reach the destination.

Things to do- Hiking and trekking, camping, wildlife photography, strolling in the meadows, and sightseeing.

Popular Attractions- Trek to Gorson Bugyal for scenic beauty, explore the local villages bordering the Indo-Tibet region, and the famous last village of India- Mana.

Weather in Monsoon- The weather is soothing during the monsoon reaching between 25-19 C.

11. Ranikhet, Uttarakhand:

Ranikhet, Queen of Meadows, truly does justice to the name. One of the charming towns in Uttarakhand, it is best explored during the monsoon season. The beautiful pine forests and the magnificent Himalayas have an ethereal charm when fluffy clouds cover the mountains with all their glory.

How to reach- The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport about 119km away. The closest railway station is in Kathgodam about 80km away from the town. Embark from Rishikesh or Dehradun for a memorable road trip.

Things to do- Hiking and trekking, camping, wildlife photography, strolling in the meadows, and sightseeing.

Popular Attractions- Pay homage to Jhula Devi temple, and capture the amazing range of views from Nanda Devi’s peak point.

Weather in Monsoon- The weather is soothing during the monsoon reaching between 20-5 C.

12. Gokarna, Karnataka

Located on the Arabian Sea in the southwest region of Karnataka, Gokarna is a popular Hindu pilgrimage destination in India. According to a mythical belief, Lord Shiva emerged from Mother Earth in a form of a cow in this place. Hence, Gokarna is a home to the oldest temple, Mahabaleshwar, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The rustic yet vibrant outlook of the town attracts visitors from around the world every year.

How to reach- The nearest airport is in Dabolim in Goa about 140km away. The closest railway station is in Ankola about 20km away from the town. Take left from NH48 and drive up to Mirijan. The route then joins NH66 going to Gokarna from Mirijan.

Things to do- Beach trekking, boat ride, yoga, and sightseeing.

Popular Attractions- Visit Om Beach, Paradise Beach, Half Moon Beach, Mahabaleshwar Temple, and watch the sunset at Yana caves.

Weather in Monsoon- The weather is soothing during the monsoon reaching between 22-29 C.

13. Auli, Uttarakhand:

Famous for skiing and other snow activities, Auli is a popular hill station in India surrounded by oak forests and several mountain ranges. The scenic meadows and pristine lakes become more glorious during the monsoon season making it the best place to visit in Uttarakhand in India. Auli receives moderate rainfall from July to September and ornates the town with lush green hills, perfect for leisure walks by the mountains.

How to reach- The nearest airport is in Dehradun about 279km away. The closest railway station is in Rishikesh about 264km away from the town. 

Things to do- Hiking and trekking, camping, strolling in the meadows, and sightseeing.

Popular Attractions- Trek to Kayani Bugyal, Trishul Peak, Chenab Lake, and Nanda Devi peak for scenic beauty, and explore the quaint local villages.

Weather in Monsoon- The weather is soothing during the monsoon reaching between 25-10 C.

14. Shillong, Meghalaya:

What else would be a better place to visit in India during the monsoon than the northeastern regions. Shillong receives the heaviest rainfall throughout the season and allures the visitors with its exotic natural beauty and gushing waterfalls. Popularly known as “Scotland of East”, Shillong is the perfect place to visit in India during the monsoon.

How to reach- The nearest airport is the Umroi Airport near Barapani about 25 km away. The closest railway station is the Guwahati Railway Station about 100 km away from the town. Take NH6 when coming from Guwahati for an amazing road trip.

Things to do- Trekking, rafting, canyoning, water rappelling, cliff diving, camping, mountain biking, and sightseeing.

Popular Attractions- Hike at Elephants Falls, visit Ward’s Lake for scenic lakes surrounded by flowers, Nohkalikai waterfall, Shillong Forest, and trek to the famous David Scott Trail.

Weather in Monsoon- The weather is soothing during the monsoon reaching between 25-15 C.

15. Udaipur, Rajasthan:

Nestled amid Aravalli Hills in Rajasthan, Udaipur is one of the favorite places in India to visit during the monsoon. The city of lakes unfolds its magnificent charms when drenched with rain. A series of manmade lakes and royal historic architecture make the city lavish and rich with history. Udaipur was founded by Maharana Uday Singh II around the 1550s and has been a popular attraction among visitors.

How to reach- The nearest airport is Udaipur Airport about 19km away from the city. The closest railway station is Udaipur Railway Station about 1 km away from the town.

Things to do- Boating and sightseeing.

Popular Attractions- Learn about the glorious history of Indian royalties at the City Palace, Lake Palace, and Monsoon Palace, enjoy boating at Fateh Sagar Lake, and shop for antiques at the local markets.

Weather in Monsoon- The weather is soothing during the monsoon reaching between 35-25 C.