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9 best monsoon destinations in India to bookmark as the rain picks up
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Monsoon heralds the earthy scent of petrichor, endless cups of tea and a hankering for visiting some of the best monsoon destinations in India. It’s the perfect time to pack those bags and head out of the city for a much-needed break where all you have to do is bask in the glow of rain-drenched vistas. If you’ve lived in India long enough, you know that everyone rushes out of the city as soon as the rains hit so, in order to give you an early-bird advantage over everyone else, we’ve compiled a list of the best monsoon destinations in India that you should bookmark before it’s crawling with visitors.
Munnar, Kerala
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Mist-covered hills, sprawling tea plantations, landscapes carpeted in verdant greens and waterfalls aplenty, Munnar is a veritable paradise during monsoon. The great outdoors beckons, so you’ll have plenty to see and do—whether it’s a guided bicycle tour, a tea-tasting at a local estate, swimming in waterfalls or simply kicking back and soaking in the views. Circle in a visit to Eravikulam National Park for a chance to spot the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. You can even go trekking to the highest peak at this park.
Mandu, Madhya Pradesh
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There’s something about monsoon that screams romance and if there is one destination that really lights the spark, it’s Mandu. This historic city, which traces its origins to the 6th century BC, is home to the Mandu fort, one of the biggest forts in the country, alongside abandoned palaces such as the Baz Bahadur Palace and Jahaz Mahal, mausoleums and several other architectural marvels that will indulge the history buff in you. But that’s not all. Mandu offers spellbinding views during the monsoon with its many lakes and lush greenery. We suggest coming here for a slice of history and booking yourself into a heritage stay. The easiest way to get here is via Indore.
Goa
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The sunshine state is increasingly becoming a year-round tourist destination, but if you want to skip the crowds and soak in the best of what it has to offer, then monsoon is the time to do it. Skip the beaches and hip restaurants and explore the rustic side of Goa instead. Think treks to hidden waterfalls, river rafting, spice plantation visits, distillery-hopping and feni-tasting curated by locals. For something more offbeat, visit Divar Island for its old-world charm.
Alleppey, Kerala
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Imagine cruising along the tranquil backwaters in Kerala on a houseboat, surrounded by lush greens and coconut palms. The monsoon season is one of the best times to visit this idyllic haven in southern Kerala. When you’re not exploring one of the backwaters’ many winding canals in a kayak or canoe, indulge in local seafood and soothing Ayurvedic treatments for the perfect getaway.
Puducherry
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Offering respite from the sweltering heat that Puducherry usually experiences during the summer months, the rains can be an apt time to visit this tranquil city and erstwhile French colonial settlement. Check yourself into one of its many charming boutique properties, savour Indo-French fare at chic cafes and restaurants, and try your hand at surfing, among several other activities on offer. Don’t miss out on the artisanal bakes and chocolates that the city is famous for.
Udaipur, Rajasthan
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Got a quick romantic getaway on your mind? Udaipur in the monsoons might just do the trick. Book yourself into one of the palatial properties overlooking Lake Pichola, and as you luxuriate in your plush dwellings, indulge in pampering spa treatments, savour traditional Rajasthani fare and marvel at the architecture of this royal city.
Shillong and Cherrapunji, Meghalaya
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Cascading waterfalls, panoramic views and lush green hills shrouded in mist, Meghalaya, also nicknamed the abode of the clouds, is a top pick for a monsoon getaway—and with good reason. Cherrapunji is home to exceptional beauty and a host of waterfalls that are worth exploring. Spend a day boating on the tranquil Umngot River (Dawki), famed for its crystal-clear waters along the Bangladesh border. Then, soak in the natural beauty of Shillong and its vibrant culture, as you go cafe-hopping and sample the indigenous fare.
Coonoor, Tamil Nadu
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Ooty and Coorg might be popular choices with tourists, but how about skipping these crowded destinations for something more offbeat? Nestled in the Nilgiri hills, the sleepy hill station of Coonoor offers charm in spades. Canter through tea estates, soak in the laid-back vibe of this town in a charming colonial-era cottage, visit a local tea and chocolate factory, learn how to make cheese at a family-run, organic, cheese-making farm stay or trek to one of the many waterfalls in the region. You won’t be disappointed.
Kutch, Gujarat
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The semi-arid desert terrain of Kutch with its white salt flats might be a draw any other time of the year, but during the monsoon, the region comes alive with hints of greenery. The Rann of Kutch is worth visiting, although it may not seem as mesmerising as it does during the winter months. The ancient ruins of Dholavira that date back to the Indus Valley civilisation are a popular tourist spot.
