Make a note of these locations for the ideal monsoon getaway, from beaches to hills and temple towns.
1. ARAKU VALLEY
Take a train (such the Kirandul Passenger) from Vizag to Araku Valley at least once; the Waltair Division of the East Coast Railway’s picturesque route is a feat of engineering. And a delight to enjoy during the monsoon. In spite of being the highest broad gauge station, Shimliguda station, at 997 metres above sea level, was the highest in India before J&K’s Qazigund was established. It’s a wonderful way to experience the monsoon in the valley because it’s traditional rail travel with people who are aware of the time of year and the surroundings (besides, there are 58 tunnels and 84 bridges). Most of Araku’s numerous beautiful waterfalls have no names when it rains, but you should be able to find your way to the stunning Thatiguda, Katiki, and Chaaparai cascades without too much difficulty.
2. HAMPI
There are Hampi and then there is Hampi in the rains, when the Tungabhadra rises rapidly and breathtakingly, the kalyanis (water tanks) overflow with rippling beauty, and every stone nook and every fissure explode in vibrant green. When the surrounding Sanapur reservoir is full and the nearby river is flooded, several guest hotels are compelled to close their doors, daily boats stop running, and the only way to go to Virupapura Gadde and Anegundi is via road. The fact that the important landmarks are located on flat, easily accessible terrain with no incline or bouldering is helpful. Even better, there aren’t many people around to take in these breathtaking views.
3. GANAPATIPULE
The MTDC resort in Ganapatipule in Ratnagiri of Maharashtra is a locational accomplishment, with straightforward and clean rooms situated on a palm-lined beach and offering unrestricted views of the type of water-sky interaction that only the monsoon can produce. As we observe from the safety of the pristine coast, low-hanging clouds move quickly over the water, there is a magnificent show of light and shadows over breaking waves, and the mood of the sea noticeably darkens. It is difficult to capture (and adequately convey!) the force of this seascape. Retire to your room when it starts to rain, keep the door open, open the drapes, and ask for chai-pakoras.
4. MALSHEJ GHAT
There is no other Indian metropolis that embraces the monsoon as much as Mumbai, and this love has extended to other rainy day destinations like Matheran and Lonavla, which are also wonderful without a doubt. However, fewer people visit Malshej Ghat, especially from the beginning through the middle of the season. Every bend in the road is already home to waterfalls and smaller rivulets of flowing fresh water, whose ebb and flow alternately sound quiet and booming depending on the amount of rainfall. In the fog, the serpent-hood-shaped Konkan Kada overhang appears positively enigmatic. And the best way to appreciate the circling clouds and dipping temperature is with a hot omelette made at a roadside stand and a cup of steaming tea.
5. Coorg
Coorg, a hilly region, is frequently thought of as a traditional summer vacation destination. However, many travellers arrive to find that it’s uncomfortably warm, with temperatures reaching up to 35 degrees Celsius from March to May. The Abbey, Mallali, and Irupu falls swell up dangerously during the monsoon, the plantations get hazy, and there is a noticeable chill in the air. When the weather doesn’t light up, people light their fireplaces. Although the roads can be unpredictable, bikers, cyclists, and hikers nevertheless make the most of the seasonal seclusion by taking advantage of it. Filter coffee and hot idli-sambhar enhance the experience.
These five locations showcase the beauty and tranquility that India has to offer during the monsoon season. From the natural wonders of waterfalls and green landscapes to the immersive experiences and delectable cuisine, each destination provides a unique and memorable getaway.