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Are you ready to take a refreshing break after the long and tiring summers? With greenery as far as eyes can see, the petrichor soothing the soul, and the pitter-patter of raindrops assuring the arrival of monsoons after the dreary summer heat – isn’t that what makes for a great vacation? As everything comes alive with the first rain of the season, why not rejuvenate yourself with a much-needed break and relax in the lap of nature!
If you are wondering where to go for a quick getaway or an extended vacation this season, here is a list of the best places to visit during the monsoon in South India. Enjoy the gushing waterfalls, drive through the winding roads of the Nilgiris, or simply relax in a resort amidst tea or coffee plantations. South India has so much to offer throughout the year, but the places become even more lively during the monsoons. Check out this list of the best places to visit in monsoons (both popular and offbeat), select the one that appeals to you, pack your bags and just leave! You will thank yourself for an unforgettable travel experience.
The land of coffee in Karnataka, Chikmaglur is one of the popular travel destinations in the South Indian state of Karnataka. The lush coffee and pepper plantations of the area, spread across miles of rolling hills, are a sight to behold, especially in the monsoon season. The perfect place to enjoy a hot cuppa with the sound of raindrops falling on the verdant hills, this location will help all the weary travellers find the peace they are looking for.
However, do not believe that Chikmaglur is only for those looking to have a laidback holiday. It is equally great for adventure seekers. From trekking routes along the Western Ghats to passing through forests and watching waterfalls gushing at high speed during the rains, the area is blessed with some of the most adventurous activities for the explorers.
Some common attractions in and around Chikmaglur include Baba Budan Giri ranges, Mullayangiri, Sharadamba Temple, Vidyashankara Temple, Jhari Waterfalls, and Kadambi Falls.
From the rolling hills of Karnataka to the rolling hills of Kerala, this is another crowd favourite among the tourist destinations in South India. The tea and spice plantations in Munnar attract tourists from far and wide. Hills covered with plantations and forests, people picking tea leaves, and the rolling clouds over the hills give the whole environment a dream-like appearance.
If you are looking for more than just green hills, though, Munnar still has so much to offer. Not one but three rivers flow through the pristine valleys of this charming hill station, with Lake Kundala completing the water bodies in the region that attract nature lovers, photographers, and bird watchers. Trekking and camping are some adventure activities that can be explored for the adrenaline rush. Another speciality of the region is the presence of endangered species, the Nilgiri Tahr.
A part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Agumbe is rich in biodiversity. It is also known as the “Cherrapunji of the South”. Located within the dense forests of the Shimoga district in North Karnataka, Agumbe has the distinction of being the last surviving rainforest in India. The heavy rainfall in the region makes the jungles come alive with the sounds of water, animals, birds, and insects. If you are looking for the perfect getaway to one of the most beautiful tourist destinations in South India, check out Agumbe.
Whether it is the cascading waterfall in the village or the diverse species of butterflies, moths, deer, and other animals, the place has so many places of interest for photography enthusiasts. However, it also has the dubious distinction of being the “Cobra capital of India” thanks to the population of Cobras in the locality. If offbeat places in South India are a part of your bucket list, make sure you visit Agumbe at least once.
An extremely popular tourist destination, Pondicherry is great for visiting throughout the year. However, monsoons in Pondicherry bring out an unseen side of it. From watching the pitter-patter of raindrops sitting in a café on the Promenade to exploring the colourful streets of the French quarters amidst a mild drizzle, Pondicherry has so many diverse experiences to offer. If you are looking for your first solo travel experience, this quaint town is a great place to start. And if a laid-back monsoon family vacation is what you want, Pondicherry is a great option. After all, it is one of the most famous tourist places in South India for a reason.
When in Pondicherry, visit the experimental city of Auroville to discover a new way of living. Other places of interest include the Aurobindo Ashram, Paradise Beach, and Rock Beach. If you get a clear day in the monsoons, do try your hand at learning how to surf, as it is also known as the surfer’s paradise.
The Queen of the Hills in the Nilgiris is undoubtedly one of the best tourist places in South India, irrespective of the season. While the verdant hills of the Nilgiris are a balm to the eyes in any season, the slight drizzle and foggy appearance in the monsoons make it look like a scene straight out of a storybook. A ride in the Nilgiri Mountain Railways through the tunnels and plantations, up the slopes of the Nilgiris, with soft rain outside, is an unforgettable travel experience for every visitor.
While one may choose to visit any of the numerous lakes in the region or not, depending on the weather, the overall atmosphere in the monsoons makes the visit worth it.
Nicknamed the “Scotland of India”, this is another of the famous tourist places in South India known for its coffee plantations. Steeped in history, Coorg’s claim to fame isn’t just coffee. It is a favourite among martial artists who come here to check out the martial arts of the region. Whether it is trekking through the verdant hills or visiting the Madikeri Fort, there is something for the adventure enthusiasts, as much as there is for nature lovers and photographers. Home to the Abbey Falls, Coorg is also known for its yummy cuisine.
Many people tend to avoid travelling in the monsoons for various reasons like water stagnation. However, that may be the case even where you are staying. Then, why not step out and enjoy the moments! Watch the world slowly come alive with drizzles and thunderstorms amidst the soothing natural beauty of the landscapes of South India. Take your pick from popular or offbeat travel destinations, and make the best out of this season. As there are many people who tend to avoid travel during the season, a huge advantage (after the natural beauty, of course) is the budget-friendly deals you can get, even at places known for being popular tourist destinations in India.
South India has some of the most stunning landscapes that can be visited during the monsoons. These include the lush coffee and tea plantations on the Western Ghats, the cascading waterfalls, and the trekking routes that come alive during the season. The best places to visit in South India during the monsoon include Chikmaglur, Coorg, Ooty, Coonoor, Munnar, Alleppey, etc.
Yes, there are a number of adventure activities that are organised in South India during the monsoon season. These include trekking, camping, and waterfall rappelling, among others. A word of caution, though: all these activities must be undertaken with experienced guides and locals to avoid any untoward incidents.
Yes, South India is a great place to visit during the monsoons. It is the variety of options available that will make your choice difficult. Your choice could depend on a number of things like whether you are visiting solo, with friends, or with family, and the kind of holiday you want. Irrespective of the type or duration of the holiday you choose, there is only one certainty – this will be an unforgettable travel experience for you.
Yes, the children will love the green outdoors and learn a lot. The rich cultural and natural diversity of our country is the best learning ground for children, and the tourist places of South India adequately represent this diversity. Choose your destination keeping in mind that there should be some activities to capture the children’s attention. Family-friendly tourist destinations like Ooty, Munnar, etc., provide the perfect opportunity.
There is nothing specific to be kept in mind while travelling to tourist spots in South India during monsoons. You should take care of the basics like travelling elsewhere – carry sufficient rainwear and change of clothes, carry the basic medicines for any emergency need, and carry a flashlight and deodorant or freshener.