Top 17 Destinations For A Perfect Monsoon Vacation In 2025

107 Interested |
384  Views

You can either romanticise rain or despise it, or feel both at the same time. If you ask me, I love the smell of wet mud, the rhythmic sound of rain hitting my window and the aroma of a hot cup of chai. But the aftermath of the rains? Hard pass. 

So, on most days in monsoon, you’ll find me curled up with a book or rewatching my comfort show because, let’s be real, there’s not much you can do when it’s pouring like the sky’s falling.

Sure, the idea of dancing in the rain sounds poetic, but I’d rather skip the sick days that come with it. And honestly, if I have to take a few days off, I might as well do it right — with a monsoon trip planned in advance. While some destinations may be a no-go zone this time of year, there are quite a few places in India that turn into full-blown green wonderlands during the rains. From some peace and quiet to lots of adventure, these 17 places are perfect for a monsoon trip.

Goa

Sure the shacks are shut and the waters too dangerous to swim in, but inland Goa is a gem in the monsoon. For starters, the whole world and their grandfather(s) won’t be there (that’s reason enough, at least for me). Then Dudhsagar Falls, a four-tiered beauty of the Mandovi, is in all its glory and worth the trek up to Sonaulim. Want to do something more off-beat? Hit up the wildlife trail at one of the four sanctuaries the state boasts of (Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary, The Bhagwan Mahavir Sanctuary, Mollem National Park and Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary) or check out Savoi Spice Plantation’s 100 acres worth of organic plants.

LBB Tip: Most 5-star hotels are available at a 50% discount if not more. 

Probability of Rain: High

Average Temperature During Monsoon: 24°C to 30°C

Nearest Airport(s): Dabolim Airport (GOI) and Manohar International Airport (GOX)

Highlights: Lush greenery and serene beaches

Safe To Visit?: Generally safe but heavy rains can cause waterlogging

Munnar, Kerala

Munnar is beautiful all the time, but there’s something even more divine and serene about Munnar in the rain. Imagine the rolling mist on tea gardens that gradually turns into pretty little raindrops as the clouds burst – it’s really quite a dream. Witness Attukal Waterfall and Lakkam Waterfall in all their glory. It's an ideal escape if you plan to do nothing for a few days but soak in the natural beauty. 

LBB Tip: Monsoon is also ideal for Ayurvedic treatments as the humidity enhances the therapy’s effectiveness.

Probability of Rain: Very high

Average Temperature During Monsoon: 18°C to 22°C

Nearest Airport(s): Cochin International Airport (COK), approximately 110 km away

Highlights: Misty landscapes, tea plantations, and waterfalls

Safe To Visit?: Caution advised due to landslide risks and slippery roads. Check weather conditions before travelling

Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

The Princess Of Hill Stations in the South (Ooty is the ruling monarch, you see), Kodaikanal is really underrated as a travel destination, whether monsoon or not. However, during monsoons, it becomes a misty haven! Nothing quite beats the image of the sun glistening on the rain-soaked trees with the mountains in the background. If you’re happy to wear a trench coat and brave the rain, nothing like it. Just walk in the drizzle and stop for some fresh bakery goodies to be washed down by Masala Chai along the lake. Or, head off to Dolphin’s Nose or Pillars Rock with a flask of tea/whiskey and enjoy the magnificent views. You can also visit waterfalls like Bear Shola and Silver Cascade, which are at their peak flow and engage in organic farm stays.

Probability of Rain: Moderate to High

Average Temperature During Monsoon: 12°C to 28°C

Nearest Airport(s): Madurai Airport (IXM), approximately 120 km away

Highlights: Foggy landscapes, waterfalls, and blooming flora

Safe To Visit?: Generally safe, might face occasional roadblocks due to heavy rains

Coorg, Karnataka

Coffee plantations, gushing waterfalls, and a few monuments in shimmering glory are what you’ll get in Coorg during the monsoon. The coffee estates really come alive with the scent of wet earth and blooming flora. We love doing nothing but drinking copious amounts of coffee by day, and similar amounts of drinks at night (as one does in the Scotland of India). You can trek through rain-soaked trails to discover hidden waterfalls, and if you are in for more adventure, try river rafting and kayaking. The monsoon also brings out the best in Coorg’s wildlife sanctuaries and offers diverse fauna sights amidst lush greenery.

Probability of Rain: High 

Average Temperature During Monsoon: 15°C to 23°C

Nearest Airport(s): Mangalore Airport (IXE), approximately 135 km away

Highlights: Coffee plantations, Abbey Falls, and lush greenery

Safe To Visit?: Caution advised. Heavy rains can cause roadblocks or landslides

Andamans

You might not get to sunbathe much, but just walking along the shores (we’re thinking Radhanagar beach), a light drizzle adding to the romantic ambience and solitude, is what you’d go to the islands for. Port Blair will have its share of sightseeing (the Cellular Jail and museums), but Ross and Viper islands take on a mysterious and wonderful avatar in the rains. Havelock goes back to being a sleepy town minus the tourist buzz. And just walking the streets seems more magical than ever. You can still scuba dive (subject to weather conditions), though there might be some restrictions involved. The island’s rainforests thrive during monsoon, so expect to see the rich biodiversity of this place. Sunsets here are also brilliant in the monsoon as the sun peeks out of dramatic clouds. 

Probability of Rain: High

Average Temperature During Monsoon: 22°C to 30°C

Nearest Airport(s): Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ) in Port Blair

Highlights: Lush rainforests and serene beaches

Safe To Visit?: Travel disruptions can be possible, check the weather advisory before travelling

Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu

There’s just something about being at the absolute tip of the country. Add to that the confluence of the Arabian Sea, the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean! You may just get confused between soaking in all the beauty and passionately posting on your Instagram. This is the first place the monsoons hit, and it’s eerie yet enthralling to literally watch the clouds roll in over the mighty waters before pouring down on land. Plus, hotels and restaurants offer all-time cheap tariffs and rates, which is always a good thing!

LBB Tip: Do visit the Vivekananda Rock Memorial and enjoy the serene ambience as the rains wash over this coastal town.

Probability of Rain: Moderate to High

Average Temperature During Monsoon: 24°C to 29°C

Nearest Airport(s): Trivandrum International Airport (TRV), approximately 90 km away

Highlights: Confluence of three seas and Vivekananda Rock Memorial

Safe To Visit?: Generally safe, occasionally heavy rains

Shillong, Meghalaya

The capital of Meghalaya, which means Abode of Clouds, is the place to be if you like romanticising the rains — lush green terrain as far as the eye can see (specifically the Khasi and Jayanti hills). Whether it’s cloudy or the sun is teasing you, almost every photo you take is worthy of a picture frame. We recommend you visit Elephant Falls, made up of three waterfalls, and Barapani Lake to see them at their best. If you want an adrenaline rush, trek a part of the age-old and famous David Scott Trail (originally a trail from Assam to Bangladesh) that starts at Mawphlang and Lad Mawphlang.

Probability of Rain: High

Average Temperature During Monsoon: 12°C to 16°C

Nearest Airport(s): Shillong Airport (SHL)

Highlights: Waterfalls, lush hills, and vibrant culture

Safe To Visit?: Caution advised. Heavy rains can cause roadblocks or landslides

Pondicherry

Usually too hot or too balmy to enjoy, this former French colony takes on a romantic hue in the rains. Apart from the museums and the French War Memorial, just meandering through the yellow-hued houses — some traditionally French and others strikingly Tamil — is a fine option. Or stroll along the Promenade Beach, visit quaint cafes and explore the vibrant art scene of the town. You would see how rain adds a poetic charm to this coastal town’s ambience.

Probability of Rain: Moderate to High

Average Temperature During Monsoon: 25°C to 30 °C

Nearest Airport(s): Pondicherry Airport (PNY)

Highlights: French colonial architecture and serene beaches

Safe To Visit?: Generally safe, although there may be minimal disruptions

Orchha, Madhya Pradesh

Be it bobbing down the gushing Betwa river in full force, or wandering the streets with the sweet smell of Custard Apple in the air, Temple Run comes to mind with this town. Orchha’s historic forts and temples embrace a mystical aura during monsoons. Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary, better known as a bird park, is at its prime with greenery. Lakes attract birds such as quails, minivets and even the mighty Collared Scop Owl. Meanwhile, Jahangir Mahal looks more regal, and the riverside cenotaphs gain a certain air of mystery. Up for some river rafting, monsoon is the best time to catch some grade three-plus rapids. Buckle up!

Probability of Rain: Moderate

Average Temperature During Monsoon: 24°C to 34°C

Nearest Airport(s): Gwalior Airport (GWL), approximately 120 km away

Highlights: Historic forts and temples amidst lush surroundings

Safe To Visit?: Generally safe, occasionally heavy rains

Kutch

Hit up Kutch in the monsoon for a surreal trip. The arid Rann of Kutch transforms into a verdant expanse during monsoon — usually, the endless miles of white salt make up the desert, and that’s beautiful, but in monsoon, it’s even prettier. Witness migratory birds flocking to the wetlands or explore the region’s rich handicraft traditions, there’s so much you can do here, including camel rides. If you’re a photographer or into taking some really cool pictures, the contrast of the white salt desert against stormy skies is a photographer’s delight.

Probability of Rain: Low to Moderate

Average Temperature During Monsoon: 24°C to 37°C

Nearest Airport(s): Bhuj Airport (BHJ)

Highlights: Salt deserts and cultural festivals

Safe To Visit?: Generally safe, minimal disruptions

Alibaug, Maharashtra

You have two options here; wear your hiking boots and hit the trails, or sit on your patio and simply relax. Just a ferry ride away from Mumbai, Alibaug offers rain-soaked beaches and historic forts like Kolaba. If you don’t mind the drizzle, walking along the beaches will be a fun activity or wandering through the streets lined with temples and churches. Monsoons make Alibaug a perfect getaway for urban dwellers seeking a quick and easy escape. 

Probability of Rain: High

Average Temperature During Monsoon: 24°C to 30°C

Nearest Airport(s): Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) in Mumbai

Highlights: Beaches and forts amidst monsoon greenery

Safe To Visit?: Caution advised. Heavy rains can cause waterlogging

Cherrapunji, Meghalaya

Cherrapunji becomes a rainforest fairytale during the monsoon season and rightfully so, as it is one of Earth’s rainiest spots. During the rainy season, the town comes alive with countless cascading waterfalls like Nohkalikai and Seven Sisters Falls. What’s more? You can explore the unique living root bridges, enjoy breathtaking views from scenic viewpoints or walk through misty valleys. It’s also a paradise for nature enthusiasts with vibrant flora and dramatic cliffs.

Probability of Rain: Very High

Average Temperature During Monsoon: 17°C to 23°C

Nearest Airport(s): Shillong Airport (SHL)

Highlights: Waterfalls and living root bridges

Safe To Visit?: Caution advised. Heavy rains can cause roadblocks

Mount Abu, Rajasthan

Mount Abu is Rajasthan’s only hill station and is a welcome break from the state’s desert heat, especially during the monsoon. The Aravalli hills are cloaked in greenery, and the Naki Lake becomes a dream spot for boating with all the mist. Looking for stunning views? Head to the Sunset and Honeymoon Points. Rain or not, the intricately carved Dilwara Temples are a must-visit, and monsoon creates the perfect opportunity to visit them crowd-free. 

Probability of Rain: Moderate

Average Temperature During Monsoon: 20°C to 27°C

Nearest Airport(s): Maharana Pratap Airport (UDR) in Udaipur

Highlights: Lush landscapes and serene lakes

Safe To Visit?: Generally safe, occasional heavy rains

Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra

Mist, strawberries and roaring waterfalls — Mahabaleshwar becomes enchantingly lush during monsoon. Perched atop the Sahyadri range in Maharashtra, the hill town is home to viewing points like Arthur’s Seat and Elephant’s Head. The Lingmala and Chinaman's waterfalls surge magnificently after rains and the pleasantly cool weather, serene lakes and ancient temples make the town more charming. While there, don't miss out on some hot bhutta and strawberry ice cream!

Probability of Rain: Very High

Average Temperature During Monsoon: 20°C to 25°C

Nearest Airport(s): Pune Airport (PNQ)

Highlights: Waterfalls and strawberry farms

Safe To Visit?: Caution advised, check the weather advisory before travelling

Udaipur, Rajasthan

The City of Lakes gets a makeover like no other during the monsoon season. Think rains filling up Lake Pichola and Fatesagar, boat rides past the City Palace and a memorable trip to Jag Mandir. The Monsoon Palace (a palace made specifically for this season) is great for soaking in Udaipur’s beauty with panoramic views of the rain-kissed city. Chill at aesthetic lake view cafes that are perfect for sipping chai and romanticising life. And of course, the Arvallie Hills become greener than ever during this time.

Probability of Rain: Moderate

Average Temperature During Monsoon: 24°C to 32°C

Nearest Airport(s): Maharana Pratap Airport (UDR)

Highlights: Lakes and palaces amidst monsoon charm

Safe To Visit?: Generally safe

Wayanad, Kerala

A monsoon dream in Kerala, you can expect misty mountains, forest trails and overflowing waterfalls in Wayanad. Get the best dramatic feel of nature as you trek to Meenmutty or Soochipara waterfalls. Fog covered Banasura Sagar Dam and Pookode Lake are a sight to behold. Love animals? Spot elephants or deer near the sanctuaries. Just want to relax? Add some Ayurvedic massages to your itinerary and you’re on brand with Kerala’s traditional healing time during the monsoons. 

Probability of Rain: High

Average Temperature During Monsoon: 18°C to 25°C

Nearest Airport(s): Calicut International Airport (CCJ)

Highlights: Rainforests and wildlife sanctuaries

Safe To Visit?: Caution advised. Heavy rains can cause landslides

Leh-Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir

Leh-Ladakh in any season is a great idea, but in monsoon, it's extra special! Fortunately, it’s accessible in the rain and looks absolutely stunning. For starters, the area gets just enough rain that makes it look like a scene straight out of a fairytale. The skies are clear and blue, you can spot occasional rainbows, the valleys are in full bloom, and turquoise lakes like Pangong and Tso Moriri make backdrops for perfect Instagram-worthy photos. You can also go for white water rafting or high-altitude biking. If you want to just explore, visit Buddhist monasteries and get lost in their serenity and peace.

Probability of Rain: Low

Average Temperature During Monsoon: 10°C to 25°C

Nearest Airport(s): Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL)

Highlights: Clear skies and alpine lakes

Safe To Visit?: Generally safe. Check the weather advisory before travelling

LBB Tip: While all of these destinations are beautiful and have something to offer during monsoons, please remember the weather can be unpredictable, and you should always check weather conditions before travelling.

img-user-yukti-malhotra-584265274783
2 Followers

Writer with more than half a decade worth of experience turning vibes into words. From fashion, beauty and celebrities to food, travel, and all things lifestyle — been there, done that. Big on cafe hopping, reading and journaling. Strongly opinionated. Foodie. Friendly. Drama-free (mostly). Pop-culture junkie.