Monsoons in India are truly a joy of bliss, beauty and relief from the scorching summer sun. If you are a nature lover then monsoon is the perfect time to get a lifetime experience as the attractive destinations leave you enthralled with its charm and beauty.
Cool breeze, shining water droplets on the tree leaves, and picturesque beauty of offbeat destinations in India will refresh you completely. If you are fed up with your busy life and not getting time to enjoy yourself then the perfect way to rediscover yourself is to take a vacation in monsoon and explore the captivating locations in India. Check out these spectacular and mesmerizing monsoon destinations that will cast a spell of magic and fill your heart with adventurous memories that you will treasure forever.
Top Offbeat Destinations In India To Visit In This Monsoon
1. Shillong, Meghalaya (230C)
Shillong in Meghalaya is one of the best places to visit in India during monsoon. Known for its picturesque beauty, the town is surrounded by a valley of Khasi and Jayanti hills. Panoramic view of lush green valley and roaring waterfalls attracts visitors. In Shillong, Elephant Falls and the Spread Eagle Falls are the best spots to visit during the monsoon. The delightful feel of the town rejuvenates visitors. Momos, Jalebi, Dohneiiong, Tungrymbai, Jadoh and Chowmeina are the local delicacies of Shillong and set the pace for a pleasant holiday.
Ideal For -Nature enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, culture vulture and honeymooners.
Things To Do – Boating, fishing, wildlife viewing, horse riding, trekking and camping.
How To Reach – You can reach Shillong by road, train as well as air.
By Road – There are several private as well as government-operated luxurious buses are run from Guwahati to Shillong. But when you are gone for holidays, it’s better to hire a taxi for a convenient and comfortable journey. The drive is extremely beautiful and you will enjoy it.
By Train- One can reach Shillong by train. Guwahati is the nearest railway station from Shillong and about 100 Km away. Taxis are easily available outside the railway station. This railway station is connected to Delhi, Mumbai and other major cities across India.
By Air– The closest major airport that is well-connected with other major cities across India is in Guwahati and is about 125 Km away. You can take a taxi to reach Shillong from Guwahati airport.
Major Attractions – David Scott Trail, Umiam Lake, Elephant Falls, Shillong Peaks, Ward’s Lake, Lady Hydari Park, Khasi Hills and Butterfly Museum are top destinations to visit in Shillong.
Souvenirs – Ethnic handcraft, winter wear, attractive handloom, shawls and stoles.
Hotels To Stay – Ri Kynjai Serenity by The Lake, Shillong Hills, Pegasus Crown and The Heritage Club
Land Package – INR 11,900.
2. Lonavala, Khandala Maharashtra (210C)
Are you staying in Mumbai or Pune and thinking of visiting the best place nearby on the weekend during monsoon? If so, one of the best tourist spots is – Lonavala which will take your breath away. When the monsoon is in full swing, the Sahyadri mountain ranges and the ghats recuperate with fascinating greenery and scenic view. Breath-taking waterfalls and pleasant climate help you to enjoy the season of love and romance. For a quick escape from the busy life, plan a trip to the picturesque hill town of Lonavala. You can also do online transportation booking to reach this beautiful place.
Ideal For – Nature lovers, adventure junkies, campers, offbeat tourists and families.
Things To Do – Horse riding, trekking, sightseeing, camping, and paragliding at Kamshet.
How To Reach– One can reach Lonavala by road, rail and air.
By Road – Lonavala is located 83.6 km away (1 hour 45 minutes) and 67.1 Km (1 hour 26 minutes) from Mumbai and Pune respectively. There are many companies offering transport services in Pune. You can book the vehicle by contacting such service providers.
By Rail – Lonavala has its railway station and connects the town to Mumbai, Pune and other parts of Maharashtra. Most of the long route trains pass from this route, halt here.
By Air – The nearest airports are Mumbai and Pune which are located at a distance of 90 Km and 74.3 Km respectively. Once you reach the airport, you can hire a cab to reach Lonavala.
Attractions or Best places to visit in Pune – You can enjoy the scenic view of a stream flowing by at the clifftop known as “The Tiger Point”. Karla caves built by the Buddhist monks around the 3rd to 2nd century BC are the most beautiful caves to relish. Wet N Joy Water Park, Lion’s Point, Wax Museum, Visapur Fort, Ghangad – Tailbaila Fort are the other famous and best places to visit in Pune during Monsoon.
Souvenirs: Exquisite leather items, local handicrafts, antique items such as gramophone records or rare coins, wooden monuments, classic keychains, Kolhapuri Chappals, Chiwda (rice flakes) and fresh Chikki
Hotels To Stay – Picaddle Resort by Meritas, Fariyas Resort, Della Resort, Hilton Shillim Estate Retreat and Spa, Treebo Trend Indralok Inn Lonavala.
Land Package: INR 11,000
3. Coorg – Karnataka (230C)
Coorg is known as one of the most popular offbeat
destinations in India. Surrounded by thick forests, it also serves as a
biodiversity spot showcasing a huge variety of wildlife. Set amidst the
splendor and tranquillity of hills Coorg is a perfect getaway from the chaos of city life. When lovers look for romantic places to visit in Bangalore or nearby the city, they choose Coorg. Captivating waterfalls, lakes, and lush green plantations offer them the best moments of their lives.
Ideal For – Nature lovers, honeymooners, adventure enthusiast and families
Things To Do – Trekking, experience Tibetan culture at Golden Temple, camping, fishing, elephant interaction, horse riding, river rafting, and coffee plantation tour.
How To Reach – If you are planning a trip to Coorg, you can reach the place by road, rail and air.
By Road – It is 5 hours (270 Km) road trip from Bangalore and suitable for people who are staying in Bangalore. To avoid driving yourself and enjoy your road trip with your family, you can opt for online transport booking services and can hire the SUV cabs.
By Train – The nearest railway station from Coorg is Mysore, which is around 95 Km away. You can hire taxis from outside the railway station or can do advanced online transport booking.
By Air – The nearest airports are Bangalore (260 km), Mysore (120 km), and Mangalore (135 km). Coorg doesn’t have an airport in the town, but one can get the flights to these airports and reach Coorg by hiring taxi services.
Major Attractions: One should see the breath-taking beauty of Iruppu waterfall and explore the wildlife at Pushpagiri wildlife sanctuary when visiting Coorg. Exciting hike at Kotebetta and the scenic beauty of Jog falls (the second highest in India) attract many tourists to visit Coorg again and again.
Souvenirs – Coffee, Coorg honey, Coorg wine, spices, dry fruits, chocolates, oranges, Tibetan artifacts and Kokkethathi Pendant.
Hotels To Stay – The Tamara Coorg, Veera Bhoomi, Amritara Ambatty Greens Resort, and Evolve Back Coorg Resort, Welcome Heritage Ayatana and Hotel Caveri Inn.
Land Package: INR 10,880
4. Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir (170C)
With its spectacular landscapes, charming scenery and picturesque gompas (Buddhist Tibetan monasteries), Ladakh is breath-taking and nothing less than a heaven. Ladakh’s spectacular beauty attracts many visitors. It is also called “Cold Desert of India” and on the top of the list of many travelers and adventure junkies. Ladakh’s numerous mountain passes, sparkly lakes with crystal clear water enclosed by snow-covered mighty mountains is simply magical. Offering a pleasure to one’s mind, body, and soul, Ladakh has got a unique charm that no other destination would have.
Ideal For -Culture-vulture, nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts and families.
Things To Do -Sightseeing, bike riding, wildlife viewing, monastery visit, camel safari and hanging out with monks
How To Reach – If you want to see this one of the top offbeat destinations in India, you can reach there by road, rail and train.
By Road – Ladakh is 1262 Km from Delhi. So, you want to go by road, you can book taxis or also go by bus. It will take a minimum of 12 hours.
By Train- The nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi, which is located at a distance of 712 km from Ladakh and well connected to other major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chandigarh, Amritsar etc.
By Air– The nearest airport to Ladakh is in Leh and named as Kushok Bakula Rimpochee. It is well connected to Delhi, Srinagar, Jammu, Chandigarh, Mumbai and many other cities in India.
Attractions: Ladakh Festival Tour, Leh Palace, Pangong Lake, Shanti Stupa, Hall of Fame, Jama Masjid, Chang La Pass, Tso Moriri Lake, Changla pass, Thiksey monastery, Khardung La Pass, Nubra Valley, Lamayuru, Zanskar Valley, Indian Astronomical Observatory and Pathar Sahib Gurudwara are the most famous attraction in Ladakh.
Souvenirs: Pashmina Shawl Tibetan handicrafts and rugs, Tibetan tables and Buddhists masks.
Hotels To Stay: The Grand Dragon Ladakh, Hotel Shangrilla, Snow Lion, Yak Tail, and Chamba Camp.
Land Package: INR 13,999
5. Goa (280C)
Goa is one of the best hotspots to visit during the rainy season in India. You want to spend your vacation enjoying drizzle in beaches then Goa is the perfect place to visit. Historical forts, ancient buildings, Portuguese style churches, flea markets and local delicacies are the attractions in Goa and surely you will come back with more selfie clicks and unforgettable life experience.
Ideal For – Beach Lovers, Nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, party animals, solo travelers and lovers.
Things To Do – Jet skiing, scuba diving, trekking, heritage tour, cruising, dolphin tours, water rafting, shopping, birdwatching, casino gambling and paragliding.
How To Reach: Goa is well connected by roads, rail and Air network.
By Road – Mumbai to Goa road trip which is 584.7 Km, worth everything in monsoons. It will take almost 11 hours.
By Rail – Goa has three railway stations which are Madgaon, Thivim and Vasco-Da-Gama. Goa has a great network of trains that connect it to major cities.
By Air – Goa’s international airport is in Dabolim. From there you have to cover almost 29 km distance to reach the main city. The airport supports almost all the domestic airlines operating to Goa.
Attractions: Dudhsagar waterfalls, Dona Paula, Vagator Beach, Morjim Beach, Aguada fort, Mangeshi Temple, Dolphin show, Calangute Beach, Candolim Beach, Church of Our Lady of the Rosary and Royal Chapel of St Anthony, Ancestral Goa museum and Chapora Fort.
Souvenirs: Cashew Nuts, Feni, Kunbi Sari, Seashells artifacts, Kokum Sherbet, Hats, Coconut Craft artifacts, Fruit Wine, Goan Bread, Flavoured Tea, Funky T-shirts and Pop Art.
Hotels To Stay -Grand Hyatt, Vivanta Goa, Treebo Trip Linda, Cozy Woods Hill Resort, Casinha Raibandar, The Crown Goa and Island Pool Villa.
Land Package: INR 4, 536
6. Munnar, Kerala (200C)
Munnar, a most famous pictorial hill station looks more breath-taking in monsoon season. It is truly a paradise in God’s own country. The fresh mountain air, the mist-clad hills and panoramic view makes it an ideal place for adventure tourism and trekking. With silvery haze, lush green hills, incredibly beautiful tea gardens, pleasant climate, this hill station is truly one of the romantic tourist destinations in India during monsoons.
Ideal For – Nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, honeymooners and wildlife lovers.
Things To Do – Trekking, plantation tours, sightseeing, paragliding, boating, elephant safari, and birdwatching.
How To Reach – As tourism flourished here, the road, rail or air connectivity has improved.
By Road– Munnar is 130.1 km from Cochin and takes It takes 3 hours 40 minutes if you take the NH49.
By Rail – Aluva and Ernakulam are the nearest railway stations that are properly connected to major cities in Kerala.
By Air – The nearest airport to Munnar is Cochin at 110 km and Madurai International airport which is 140 km away. Once you reach the airport you can hire a taxi or catch the bus to reach Munnar.
Attractions – Enjoy beautiful wildlife at Anamudi (the highest peak in the western ghat), take a stroll at beautiful lakes in Devikulam and visit the Attukal waterfalls. Mattupetty Dam, Mattupetty Dairy Farms, Kundala lake, Echo Point and Marayoor Sandalwood forests are some of the most attractive locations that can allure anyone to fall in love with.
Souvenirs – Aromatic Spices, Coffee Beans, Tea Leaves, Aranmula Kannadi (Mirror), Banana Chips, Coir Products, Kasavu Mundu, Sarees, Handicraft, Nettur Casket (Old Makeup Box), Nilavilakku and Wooden Idols.
Hotels To Stay – Munnar Inn, The Panoramic Getaway, Green View Holiday Inn, Fragrant Nature Munnar and Cloud Valley
Land Package – INR 7,748
7. Pushkar Rajasthan (260C)
The beautiful city of Pushkar is on the bucket list of popular destinations for thousands of tourists and devotees flocking to Rajasthan. Monsoon is the perfect time to explore the magnificent and soothing side of Rajasthan. What can be more interesting and exciting than an awakening peacock call, a stroll around the market and an early morning camel ride? Despite the commercialism, the beautiful town remains pleasantly mystic and tranquil.
Ideal For – Honeymooners, families, pilgrimages, adventure lovers, culture vulture
Things To Do – Camel safari, Ghats visiting, camping, food walk tour, hot air ballooning, zip lining, adventure activities, jeep safari, hiking, shopping, sightseeing
How To Reach-
By road – Buses from Delhi to Ajmer and Pushkar are easily available from Delhi at nominal prices but for long-distance travelers, the bus is not a good option.
By Rail – The city railway station is well connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Lakhnow, Bangalore and Calcutta. You will need to take a take taxi which is only a 30-minute drive to Pushkar.
By Air – Jaipur is the nearest airport to Pushkar which is 140 Km away. The airport is well-connected to major metropolitan cities like Mumbai, Delhi and Calcutta. You can pre-book the cab by using the services of online transport booking companies and reach Pushkar without any delay.
Attractions: Savitri Temple, Camel Fair, Brahma Temple, Pushkar Lake, Gurudwara Sahib, Merta Naga Pahar, Rose Garden, Sarafa Bazar, Kishangarh, Man Mahal and Rangji Temple are the best place to visit in Pushkar.
Souvenirs: Handicrafts, leather bags, rose products, silver jewelry, potteries, and paintings
Hotels To Stay: The Pushkar Alone Resort, Hotel Kanhaia Haveli, Pushkar Heritage, Hotel Brahma Horizon, and The Westin Pushkar Resort and Spa.
Land Package: INR 4,153
8. Mount Abu, Rajasthan (230C)
Mount Abu, a beautiful hill station is located in the desert state of Rajasthan. Though the place attracts visitors round-the-year to see several locations and amazing temples but in monsoon when clouds cover the sky and water drops come down to the earth makes your days relaxing and fulfill your purpose to rejuvenate yourself. If you are looking for the perfect blend of nature, adventure and spirituality, Mount Abu is the best location.
Ideal For – Honeymooners, adventure enthusiasts, families, spiritual seekers, history lovers, art enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Things To Do – Boating, trekking, rock climbing, camping and sightseeing.
How To Reach: Being one of the top offbeat destinations in India, Mount Abu is well connected to other cities across India.
By Road – If you want to go to Mount Abu by road, you can do so. The nearest national highway no. 14 which is just 24 Km.
By Rail – You can get trains to Mount Abu from major stations like New Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur and Ahmedabad.
By Air – The nearest airport is Udaipur which is 185 km from Mount Abu. But, Ahmedabad is having better connectivity with daily flights from other parts of the country. It is just 221 KM and can hire a taxi in advance by using the online transport booking facility.
Attractions: Achalgarh Fort, Nakki Lake, Guru Shikhar Peak, Dilwara Jain Temples, Peace Park, WildLife Sanctuary, Sun Set Point, Abu Road, Toad Rock,and Trevor’s Tank are top destinations in Mount Abu where you can get the amazing experiences for the lifetime.
Souvenirs: Bangles, Jewelries, Handicrafts, Textiles, Metal crafts, Wooden crafts, linen with Sanganeri print, Jaipuri quilts and sarees
Hotels To Stay: Hotel Hillock, Hotel Sarasvati, Lake Villa, hotel Toppers Corner and Hotel Royale Palace
Land Package: INR 3,540
9. Shojha, Kullu, Himachal Pradesh (210C)
Shoja is a small beautiful village in the lap of the Himalayas. Several temples made of wood, snow-capped mountains and thick forests in Shoja offer a panoramic view to tourists. The natural beauty of the village is at its peak during monsoon season. As you put your foot in this land, a set of magical wonders unfold in front of your eyes.
Ideal For– Photo fanatics, adventure seekers, nature lovers, families, honeymooners and pilgrimages,
Things To Do- Trekking, sightseeing, and camping
How To Reach Shoja: The place is well connected by road and can also be reached by rail and air.
By Road – State transport or private luxury buses are run from Delhi and Chandigarh. You can also hire a taxi from freight transportation services providers in Delhi.
By Train – The nearest railway station is Shimla which is 60 Km from Shohja. Another popular railway station near to Shojha is Chandigarh. You can hire a taxi from these stations to reach your destination.
By Air – The closest airport to Shoja is the Bhuntar which is 58.1 Km away. You can easily contact truck and transportation service providers to hire a cab from outside the airport till your destination. Bhunter airport is well connected with Delhi and Chandigarh.
Attractions – The most famous tourist destinations in Shoja are Waterfall point, Tirthan Valley, Jalori Pass, Serolsar Lake and Raghupur Fort which offer the breath-taking view of Himalayas.
Souvenirs – Woollen wear, handicraft, wooden monuments and local fruits.
Hotels To Stay – Banjara Hotel, Pine Wood Home Stay, Whispering Woods, Pine Valley Home Stay and Satyam Home Stay.
Land Package – INR 3,125
10. Darjeeling, West Bengal (170C)
Darjeeling, one of the popular offbeat destinations in India, is also known as The Queen of Hills. It is situated at the foothills of the great Himalayas and is a perfect collage of, winding walking tracks, valleys, monastery, parks and gardens, scenic places and viewpoints, snowy and mighty Himalayan ranges, momos, tea plantations and toy train. Due to the surrounding hills, it receives heavy showers during the monsoon but surely nature lovers will enjoy their time here.
Ideal For – Nature lovers, adventure freaks, honeymooners, wildlife lovers and families
Things To Do -Tea plantation visit, monastery visit, rock climbing, hiking, river rafting, toy train ride, and shopping
How To Reach: Darjeeling is one of the most visited tourist destinations in India. So how to reach Darjeeling is not a matter of worry. One can reach there by road, rail and air.
By Road – Kalimpong and Gangtok are located at a distance of 51 Km and 100 Km respectively from Darjeeling. The city is also connected to Nepal, Kathmandu which is 310 KM away from this beautiful place.
By Train – New Jalpaiguri is the nearest railway station to Darjeeling which is 62 Km from the main town. It connects major cities like Calcutta, Delhi, Bhubaneshwar, Chennai, Guwahati, Mumbai, Bangalore and Cochin.
By Air – Bagdogra is the nearest airport to Darjeeling which is almost 95 km away from the city. Kolkata, Delhi and Guwahati have direct flights to Bagdogra. Once you reach the airport, you can hire taxis by making online transport booking. It is 3 hours run from the airport to the main town.
Attractions: Rangeet valley passenger cable car, Darjeeling monastery, Teesta River, Tiger Hill, Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Kanchenjunga Peak, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Zang Dhok Palri Phodang Monastery and Peace Pagoda are the most beautiful location which one should not miss to visit.
Souvenirs – Hand-knitted woolen items, carpets, handicrafts and tea
Hotels To Stay – Mayfair, Sinclairs, Central Heritage Resort & Spa, Sanderling Resort and Hotel RaphKhang.
Land Package – INR 5,900
Conclusion
All the destinations mentioned above uniquely define their beauty and culture. So plan soon and enjoy your monsoon there. As far as the rain is concerned, don’t worry. You just need to pack right for a comfortable, enjoyable and hassle-free holiday. Keep in mind to pack your umbrella, comfortable shoes, extra pair of clothes, and last but not least, a first aid kit for cuts and bruises. To make your visit smooth, keep a check out for timings and restrictions to enter the coastal areas during the monsoons, and stay updated on the meteorological conditions of your destination at all times. Travel delays are a part of the monsoon journey, so you need to be prepared to face some before beginning your journey.
