Where to travel in India during the monsoon

By the Nexara Holidays travel desk · 2 min read

The monsoon puts many travellers off, but it also turns India green and empties popular places. Here are destinations that work well between June and September.

Kerala for Ayurveda and greenery

The monsoon is the traditional season for Ayurvedic treatments, and Kerala's hills and backwaters are lush. Book a wellness stay in Kovalam or Kumarakom, with a couple of nights in Munnar if roads are clear.

The Western Ghats around Mumbai and Pune

Lonavala and Mahabaleshwar are famous for monsoon waterfalls and misty viewpoints. Go on weekdays; weekends are crowded with day-trippers.

Meghalaya for waterfalls

Cherrapunji (Sohra) is among the wettest places on earth, and its waterfalls are spectacular in the rain. Trails are slippery, so plan easier walks and viewpoints.

Udaipur for the lakes

Rajasthan gets modest rain, which cools things down and fills Udaipur's lakes. Hotels offer good value.

Ladakh and Spiti for clear skies

The high Himalaya behind the main range gets little monsoon rain, so July and August are peak season in Leh and Spiti. Approach roads can still be affected by landslides, especially through Himachal.

Goa for a quiet, green break

Beaches are closed for swimming, but Goa's interior, waterfalls and old churches are beautiful, and hotels are inexpensive.

Where to be careful

• Uttarakhand and Himachal roads, which are prone to landslides.
• National parks, many of which close their core zones.
• Island ferries, which can be cancelled.

Monsoon travel tips

Pack light rain gear and quick-dry clothes, protect electronics, keep buffer days and follow local advisories. See Travelling in India during the monsoon: where it works and where to avoid for a fuller guide, and our Couples' holidays page for rainy-season romantic trips.