Discover 10 Hidden Monsoon Getaways in India Before Season Ends

The monsoon season transforms India into a breathtaking landscape, with lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and serene trails. While many popular destinations draw large crowds during this time, there are hidden gems that offer tranquility and beauty. Travel agencies like Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel have curated a list of ten lesser-known locations across the country that come alive during the rains, providing perfect escapes for families, couples, and adventure enthusiasts.

Enchanting Monsoon Retreats Across India

Agumbe, located in Karnataka, is often dubbed the “Cherrapunji of the South.” This rainforest paradise features misty sunsets, vibrant waterfalls, and dense green canopies, making it a biodiverse hotspot during the monsoon. The best time to visit is from June to September, with activities like trekking to Barkana and Onake Abbi Falls, enjoying views from Agumbe Sunset Point, and exploring rainforest trails.

In Kerala, Athirapally Falls, known as the “Niagara of India,” transforms into a powerful spectacle amid the rains. Ideal for nature lovers and photographers, the thundering cascade is surrounded by lush forests. Visitors should plan their trip between July and October, taking the opportunity to enjoy the views from both Athirapally and Vazhachal Falls, walking through the Sholayar forests, and spotting exotic birds.

Another serene destination is Bhandardara in Maharashtra, nestled in the Sahyadris mountain range. The monsoon enhances its charm, with the Wilson Dam overflowing and Randha Falls at its fullest. Travelers can visit Arthur Lake, trek to Ratangad Fort, and admire the natural beauty between July and September.

Netarhat, often referred to as the “Queen of Chotanagpur,” is found in Jharkhand. This offbeat location is characterized by rolling hills and dense sal forests. The best time to experience its beauty is between August and October, with activities such as sunrise viewing at Magnolia Point, strolling through pine forests, and picnicking by Upper Ghaghri Falls.

In Gujarat, the only hill station, Saputara, becomes a mist-covered retreat during the monsoon. Ideal for families and nature enthusiasts, visitors can enjoy boating on Saputara Lake, riding the ropeway, and trekking to Gira Waterfalls between July and September.

Travelers seeking spiritual and natural beauty should consider Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh. This remote location features monasteries surrounded by mist and emerald lakes, particularly enchanting from July to early September. Key attractions include the Tawang Monastery, exploring Sela Pass, and enjoying panoramic valley views.

Mawlynnong, renowned as Asia’s cleanest village in Meghalaya, offers a magical monsoon experience. Visitors can walk across living root bridges, trek to the Dawki River, and enjoy the stunning vistas from Sky View Point from June to September.

For a unique experience in Andhra Pradesh, Lambasingi—often called the “Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh”—is a high-altitude village that boasts misty mornings and lush coffee plantations. The best time to visit is between July and September, where visitors can stroll through coffee plantations, trek nearby hills, and enjoy village stays enveloped in clouds.

Durshet, located close to Mumbai and Pune in Maharashtra, is a haven for adventurers during the monsoon. With lush trekking paths and numerous outdoor activities, it provides a perfect escape for families and groups. Ideal activities include zip-lining, rappelling, and birdwatching, with the best visiting time from July to September.

Lastly, Kolli Hills in Tamil Nadu is a well-kept secret known for its stunning hairpin bends and breathtaking Agaya Gangai waterfalls. The region is most appealing from August to October, where visitors can trek to the falls, visit Arapaleeswarar Temple, and enjoy spice plantation walks.

These hidden monsoon getaways across India promise unique experiences and beautiful landscapes, making them ideal destinations as the season draws to a close.