For people in bustling cities, monsoons are a sad time when one has to wade through water-clogged roads and navigate through endless traffic jams. But there are a few destinations around the country where the rains add to the charm, and make for perfect getaways. Maybe it’s time you pack your bags and experience what monsoon really is!
Agumbe, Karnataka A little-known village in Karnataka, Agumbe has all the old-world charm filled with tradition, forests, and adorable huts that one could hope for. You might also remember that Agumbe was the setting for Malgudi Days! What’s more, the house the show was shot in is now a home-stay called Dodda Mane, so all the 90s children might find quite a few throwbacks. During the rains, the forest treks to the falls become even more exciting and the ghats are covered with a mist, giving it a mysterious yet welcoming feel. You can also volunteer at the Agumbe rainforest research station and help in studying the plethora of flora and fauna that the area houses.
Munnar, Kerala Munnar isn’t known as a lover’s paradise for nothing! This hill station in Kerala, usually pleasantly sunny and green, gets a different personality during the rainy months. The showers are the perfect time to enjoy a steaming hot cup of tea looking onto the sprawling tea plantations. It’s the perfect relaxing trip to either venture out in the cool rain or stay holed up indoors with your loved one. Munnar is also incredibly close to Marayur where you can visit the sandalwood forest and paddy fields. The best part is that monsoon is off-season at the holiday destination, and it will be relatively less crowded so you can enjoy a peaceful holiday.
Mandu, Madhya Pradesh This could be the most offbeat of choices on the list and it deserves the spot. The fortified city is not only historically rich but is also just as beautiful aesthetically. During the monsoon, the foliage surrounding the abundant monuments becomes more lush and the monuments themselves get a bright red sheen that cannot be missed! The biggest fort in India, the Mandu fort, is a popular place to visit now and used to be a frequented monsoon retreat for Mughal emperors. If royalty enjoyed this city of beautiful ruins, who are we to deny it
Cherrapunji, Meghalaya We would be remiss if we didn’t mention Cherrapunji — a town in Meghalaya that is touted as the wettest place on Earth. Enroute, you will be able to see the drastic difference between the landscapes of surrounding cities and Cherrapunji. Even though the town does not have forests, the grass grows bright, free, and wild. The rolling hills, endless streams, and unexpected waterfalls add to the effect of the town. Of course, you could head there in the winter when the weather is calmer but where’s the adventure in that Be sure to be armed with a raincoat and umbrella to visit the limestone caves, waterfalls, and picturesque treks (especially to the living-roots bridges).
Ladakh, Jammu, and Kashmir Here is the obvious push to go to Ladakh that one gets every year. The passage to the hilly region is only open from July to October, and road trips are highly recommended! The Zanskar valley plays host to several vacationers and the white waters of the river are filled with colourful rafts that you should get onboard if adventure sports are your thing! For a bit of culture, you can enjoy the several monastery festivals held between June and September. So, pack up, rev your engines and head to Ladakh to fully enjoy the great mountains, warm thukpa, and culturally rich tourist hotspot. You can thank us later!
