Umbrellas out! India’s most gorgeous monsoon destinations

Yes, it is that time of the year, the monsoon time. And no, you do not need to put your travel plans on hold, for here is a list of India’s best monsoon getaways. All that you need to do is bring your rain gear out, book yourself a stay and head out for a monsoon vacation. While most of the travellers take a month or more off while it rains, you can definitely head out for some exploration time sans the regular crowd.

From Kerala to Uttarakhand, we have you covered for that perfect rainy vacation.
Cherrapunji

If you have not experienced rains in Cherrapunji, you are missing an experience that cannot be put into words. A pluviophile’s fantasy, Cherrapunji and its neighbourhood will make you put on rubber boots, umbrellas, raincoats and what not! When here, do not miss the short trek to the Living Root Bridges, a trip to Mawlynnong and hours of amazing music in Shillong.
Read more: A guide to India's Living Root Bridges

Hampi
Be it the thrill of wandering in the ruins of a lost empire, the rush of bouldering in perfect terrain, or reading a book or two by Tungabhadra river—Hampi will leave you asking for more, especially when it rains. It has a charm unmatched by any other place and is perfect to spend a long weekend as well.

Varkala
If you fancy looking over the Arabian Sea as thunderstorms roll in, Varkala is just the place for you. Its famous red cliffs are lined by luxurious resorts as well as backpackers’ dens; also a delight for all the foodies out there, Varkala is where Kerala weds monsoon. You can also book yourself a stay in one of the Ayurvedic spa retreats here and go off the grid, listening to rainstorms.
Munnar

Munnar in monsoons is sans the humongous tourist numbers, for very few realise the charm of this Kerala hill town in rains. A regular rainy day in Munnar has fog rolling in, air heavy with aromas of spices and coffee, tea gardens looking deep green—it might just look like a fresh painting, too wet to be touched. Drive over and enjoy Indian monsoon at its best, as you gulp down the best filter coffee and idli-dosas around.

Binsar

Skip over the famous ones this time, including Nainital, Manali, Mcleodganj, Shimla and more; skip these, for you have Binsar waiting to be explored. One of Uttarakhand’s best kept secrets till some years back, Binsar is still untouched and makes for a cosy hideaway as it rains outside. On clearer days, get ready to feast your eyes on Himalayan peaks such as Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, Panchachuli, Nanda Kot and more.