8 most stunning monsoon road trips in India

It’s monsoon time, and there are two types of people: those who hate the rains, and those who live for the pitter-patter. If you are someone who doesn't mind a little precipitation, this one's for you. Many of us simply live for monsoon road trips, as we find them incredibly breathtaking. In India, it is true for many places. Lush greenery, misty hills, and cascading waterfalls creating unforgettable scenery. One can’t imagine a better holiday. Here are some of the most scenic monsoon road trips that you can take this season. Stay safe and happy travels!

This route winds through the Malnad region, and features Charmadi Ghat’s countless waterfalls, misty hills, and dense forests. Stops at Sringeri’s Shankaracharya Math and Agumbe’s scenic waterfalls like Barkana and Onake Abbi for some great sights and experiences.

Coorg’s coffee plantations, misty hills, and waterfalls like Abbey Falls are magical in the monsoon. The drive via Mysore offers lush landscapes and scenic countryside views. You can add a little wildlife adventure as well. Plan stops at Dubare Elephant Camp for a memorable interaction with the gentle giants. Watch out for heavy rains, and avoid remote interior roads.

Mahabaleshwar is perfect throughout the year, but come monsoon, the hill station turns into a haven with mist-covered hills and stunning waterfalls. The drive from Mumbai passes through scenic ghats and valleys, offering panoramic views.

This drive through Uttara Kannada’s pristine forests and coastal roads features waterfalls near Sirsi, Banavasi’s ancient temple, and Gokarna’s beaches. Explore bird watching in Dandeli or visit Jog Falls nearby. Carry a map or GPS for remote sections.

The drive from Guwahati to Shillong is spectacular. This route offers rolling hills, misty valleys, and views of Umiam Lake. Shillong is vibrant in the monsoon with lush greenery and waterfalls like Elephant Falls.

Mussoorie is enchanting in the monsoon with misty hills, Kempty Falls, and Camel’s Back Road. The drive from Delhi passes through Dehradun, offering scenic Himalayan foothills and greenery. Avoid driving at night or during heavy rain for safety.

The monsoon softens Rajasthan’s arid landscape, with the Aravalli hills turning green. And mind you, the scenery is stunning! Udaipur’s lakes, like Fateh Sagar and Pichola, shimmer under rain clouds, and the drive through Chittorgarh offers historic forts and scenic vistas.

The East Coast Road (ECR) offers stunning views of the Bay of Bengal, with monsoon rains enhancing the greenery of coastal villages. Pondicherry’s French Quarter and Auroville are charming in the rain. Avoid cyclone-prone days by checking forecasts.