Travelling during the rainy season often means fewer crowds, but with views that are completely unmatched.
During the monsoon months (June to September), the South of India beautifully transforms into a rain-soaked paradise. Be it mountains wrapped in mist or waterfalls in full flow to breathtaking valleys and paddy fields, the area becomes an escape for nature lovers and photographers alike. In fact, with fewer crowds and cooler weather, every corner of South India looks mesmerizing. So, if you are in the mood for travel, here are five monsoon-perfect places in South India that will let you experience nature at its wildest and most beautiful.
Wayanad, which is a hill station in Kerala, gets alive and green in the monsoon season. Thanks to the smell of the wet soil, the dreamy mornings and the lush Western Ghats. You can visit Chembra Peak, Neelimala View Point and Meenmutti Waterfall for a full-blown monsoon experience. Wayanad has a mythical feel in the monsoon season, and make sure to carry waterproof shoes and a good camera to capture the mist-draped landscapes.
Just imagine seeing tea gardens soaked in rain in Munnar during the monsoon season, and you will instantly feel elated. Once you visit Munnar, you will lose track of time, and the landscapes feel like oil paintings in real life. Make sure to add elephant rides and boating at Kundala Lake to your itinerary, and prefer to stay in a plantation bungalow or eco-resort for an immersive experience.
Often referred to as the 'Scotland of India', Coorg is South India's is known for its coffee plantations and spice trails. From the mist, the waterfalls to the soul-soothing silence, everything in Coorg feels magical. Go visit the Abbey Falls and Iruppu Falls in peak flow or head for wildlife spotting in Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary. You can also go rafting on the Barapole River (available post heavy showers).
While most think of Chikmagalur as more of a coffee place, let’s not forget that it is much more than that. Think of its raw natural beauty that comes alive during the monsoon. You can visit Hebbe Falls, Kemmanagundi, Hirkole Lake and Kolathgiri Falls to soak it all in the beauty.
If you are looking for a charming hill station that comes into its own, head to Kodaikanal with its glassy lakes and moody skies. Head to Kodai Lake, Bryant Park, Dolphin's Nose and Silver Cascade Falls in the monsoon for a mysterious experience. Nonetheless, the Kodaikanal experience is ideal for couples and slow travelers who enjoy atmospheric escapes.
