10 Monsoon Hidden Gems of India

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Photo of 10 Monsoon Hidden Gems of India 1/1 by Danish Rajput
Picture: Danish Rajput

The World will be beautiful, like never seen before. As we settle slowly from the lockdown, plan for a monsoon trip, the rainy season lasts for four months, and you can have a tour through most beautiful destinations across India. Though rainfall is not everyone’s cup of tea, but when you get drenched, every cup of tea served gives a delight.

May you be at any state your weekend gateway can give you relaxation from your daily chores. A two to four days visit at a minimum budget can give you total relaxation to your body and mind.

Most of these vacation destinations have one thing in common, you can rent a car or a bike, but driving a two-wheeler could be risky, so I highly recommend for a four-wheeler. But beware of your little expenses, this option will save your penny for tomorrow.

Before you rent a car check:

✓ Insurance Policy

✓ Take copious pictures of the vehicle (exteriors and interiors)

✓ Rental person's or companies identification

✓ Check tire conditions (to avoid skid), noises from the car, and Air-conditioning systems condition.

Here you go some of the budget places around India:

A hilly region at a high rocky plateau surrounded by forest and desert with a pleasant climate.

Picture credit: Tour my India

Photo of Mount Abu, Rajasthan, India by Danish Rajput

Located in the Aravalli hills, closer to Gujarat border, a famous hill station, or I should say, the only hill station in Rajasthan. Popularly known as an “oasis of the desert”, attracts many visitors due to its affordable pricing, climate, and rich cultural history. Adventure lovers will love treks, waterfalls, and green surroundings that have a mist in the air giving opalescence appearance.

If you have “horse-riding” in your bucket list, then you can strike out after this trip. Mount Abu was the first place I did my horse riding, it was amazing, you can also experience horse safaris, but during torrential rains, you may find it tough to get one. Another good option you have here is renting a car or a bike, the fares are negotiable on per day or on an hourly basis.

Temperatures during Monsoon?

Mount Abu lies around 1200 meters above sea level. July to September is the time of monsoon, and the average temperature is approximately 20.9 °C or 69.6 °F.

How to reach Mount Abu?

Make sure you avoid traveling or reaching late evenings as transportation is not convenient. Hence, it is advisable to plan your reach by early morning or afternoon.

By Air: The closest airport is the Udaipur Airport (UDR), approximately 120 km away. Cabs would be a comfortable option to travel.

By Rail: The nearest railway station is Abu road; 25 km away, you will have to take local rickshaws or cabs.

By Road: NH 48 connects the city. State and Private bus services run from various cities to Mount Abu bus-stand.

A mountain pass with cascade waterfalls, hanging valleys having fresh breeze roll on with the zigzag course.

Picture: Danish Rajput

Photo of Malshej Ghat, Maharashtra by Danish Rajput

It is an ideal gateway in the landscapes' captivating drive through the lush greenery on both sides, roads having rising fog and linn. I bet if you hop around this place before the dawn, you will have reenergizing moments and views which you would have never experienced before. There are ample of photography and video spots for your portfolio. If you feel hungry, the food trucks at every corner will bestow you with delicious fast-food. Embrace the natural playground and mystical sceneries of the Western ghats in a friendly family environment.

Malshej Ghat is also a place of legendary “Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj”, a brave Indian warrior-king, and a true leader of Maratha's. The Shivneri Fort, where he was born, is close to Malshej Ghat, a 17th-century military fortification, and a great heritage.

Temperatures during Monsoon?

Malshej Ghat lies around 700 meters above sea level. June to September is the peak time of monsoon, and the average temperature is approximately 18 °C or 64.4 °F.

How to reach Malshej Ghat?

By Air: The closest airport is Pune Airport, approximately 115 km away. The best option to commute towards Malshej Ghat is to book a Volvo bus or a cab.

By Train: The nearest railhead to Malshej ghat is Khandala or Lonavala Railway Station, approximately 127 km away. From there, book or hire a car.

By Road: The Mumbai–Pune or Bangalore–Pune expressway is the best way to reach your destination.

One thing for the bike riders, two-wheelers are not permitted on the Mumbai-Pune new express route, you will have to take the old highway.

A serendipitous encounter in Sahyadris, having quintessential sunrise-sunset points, cascade waterfalls, and a salubrious climate.

Picture credit: unsplash.com

Photo of Lonavala, Maharashtra, India by Danish Rajput

Venture-off to an affordable destination that’s peaceful and beautiful in the western ranges having twin hill stations with a fusion of nature and human imagination. A combined trip to this hill station attracts a lot of adventure lovers for rock climbing, rappelling, trekking, and camping at the lakeside.

Every corner gives a new experience, and a soothing view like the tigers and lion's point – famous sunrise and sunset spots, though this place has no wild animals. Moreover, riders here take the joy in meandering paths, windy lanes, and lush surroundings that bring smiles and rejuvenating moments. Hence, from natural sparkling dews to waterfalls to Amby valley township, the place continues blissful tourist spots.

Temperatures during Monsoon?

Lonavala–Khandala lies around 622 meters above sea level. June to September is the peak time of monsoon, and the temperature is approximately 18 °C or 64.4 °F.

How to reach Lonavala or Khandala?

By Air: The closest airport is Pune Airport, approximately 115 km away. The best option to commute towards these destinations is to book a luxury bus or a cab.

By Train: Both Lonavala (LNL) and Khandala (KAD) have railway stations. From there, you can take a rickshaw or book and hire a car.

By Road: The Mumbai–Pune or Bangalore–Pune expressway is the best way to reach your destination.

One thing for the bike riders, two-wheelers are not permitted on the Mumbai-Pune new express route, you will have to take the old highway.

A Silent valley in Palani hill ranges with misty clouds, pine forests, and a serene environment.

Picture credit: Oyo Rooms

Photo of Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu, India by Danish Rajput

The Southern Indian region is a paradise for bachelor’s escapes to honeymoon trips. It is an escape into granite cliffs and grassy hills with crashing waterfalls. You can live the moment into luxurious resorts, camping around the woods, exploring rowing boats in lakes, and cycling around the evergreen forest, and the lakeshores.

Kodaikanal in the Tamil language means, Gift (Kodai) and Kanal (Forest), hence, it is also termed as The Gift of the Forest and Princess of Hill Stations. The moment of leisure is traveling around in the western ghats, through crashing waterfalls and eucalyptus trees. Don't fall for local guides and try booking hotels in the town to save extra bucks. One thing you should not miss here is traditional South Indian coffee and food, and the continental plus International cuisines.

Temperatures during Monsoon?

Kodaikanal lies around 2000 meters above sea level. June to September is the time of monsoon, and the average temperature is approximately 20 °C or 68 °F.

How to reach Kodaikanal?

By Air: The closest airport is Madhurai Airport, approximately 134 km away. The travelers can avail of luxury bus services or book a cab.

By Train: The nearest railhead to Kodaikanal is Kodai road station (KQN), approximately 80 km away. The best option is to board a pocket-friendly Government bus service that connects the city. You can always share or negotiate the prices if you are hiring a cab.

By Road: The convenient and smooth route is through the Dindugal-Kodaikanal State highway 156, it will lead you through beautiful ghats to Kodaikanal's main town.

Pristine wonders of western ghats with outstanding vantage points, heavy showers make tiered waterfalls and streams flowing through steep slopes along the valley side.

Picture credit: Oyo Rooms

Photo of Coorg, Karnataka, India by Danish Rajput

A small gem, unlike most destinations, this place of South gives you a feeling of being in woods, a forest trek. Another name for Coorg is “Kodagu”. It’s compared to Scotland's beauty – it has remote villages with traditional savory cuisines, hanging valleys with cascade waterfalls giving a scenic panorama, a perfect escape from the traffic world. Besides this, beautifully planted world-class coffee, tea gardens, and orange groves make it pretty impressive.

A sacred river named “Kaveri” flows through Coorg, the bank of the river has arranged a Jungle camp where elephants get trained. If you have never made a moment with Asian elephants, this place will fulfill your wish. Moreover, this place expands its landmass to a 25-acre island known as “Kaveri Nisargadhama” covered with bamboo, sandalwood, including forest trees, and beautiful animals. It's a gorgeous holiday spot.

Temperatures during Monsoon?

Coorg lies around 1150 meters above sea level. June to September is the time of peak monsoon, and the average temperature is approximately 23 °C or 73.4 °F.

How to reach Coorg?

By Air: The closest airport is Mysore Airport, approximately 134 km away. The travelers can avail deluxe or luxurious bus service plying to&fro from the Mysore Bus Stand. The distance between Mysore airport to bus stand is around 10 km, make sure you book the bus online.

By Train: Coorg does not have closest railway stations, the best option is from Mysore Junction (MYS), approximately 118 km away. At regular intervals, you will find luxury buses from the Mysore bus stand to the city center, you can also book a cab, but that would be an expensive option.

By Road: The road trip to Coorg via NH 4 or 275 will be preferred, due to its connectivity to various main towns of India. You can experience breathtaking hills while driving your way towards Coorg.

Rolling hills with the scene of flowing mist on the mountain ranges, enfold with the carpet of pure tea-plantations, and placid-water swirling through green paradise.

Picture credit: Revvlog.com

Photo of Munnar, Kerala, India by Danish Rajput

Munnar is famous for the confluence of three mountain riversKundaly, Nallathanni, and Muthirappuzha. It's unique, idyllic, and radiant nestled into uphill flavored world-class tea plantations. Another classic sight is the riverside cottages and bungalows – imagine stepping out feeling the tranquil breeze with a view of freshwater, and enjoying the fresh organic tea or coffee with no chaos.

The curvy roads through emerald green tea bushes and the towering western ghats makes incredible steering, trekking, and camping spot. The hills of these regions are more eye-grabbing when you see captivating upside-down waterfall appearance. The Munnar could be an expensive one from the list but would be wonderstruck, a trip worth to spend in such a paradise.

Temperatures during Monsoon?

Munnar lies around 1500 meters above sea level. June to September is the time of monsoon, and the temperature is approximately 19 °C or 66.2 °F.

How to reach Munnar?

By Air: The closest airport is Cochin International Airport, approximately 104 km away. The travelers can book a cab directly to Munnar or hassle to reach the Aluva bus stand around 11 km away for a deluxe bus. Check bus timings online.

By Train: The nearest railhead to Munnar is Aluva or Ernakulum station approximately 105 & 123 km away, respectively. At regular intervals, you will find KSRTC buses or else opt for private cabs.

By Road: The roads to uphill Munnar are smooth NH 44, and NH 48 connects major cities of India, followed by connecting state highways.

Munnar has 40 hairpin bends that pass across splendor countryside regions.


The heart of Andhra Pradesh, with a majestic cave, glorious sand, and an unfathomable hill station with foggy valleys at the eastern ghats.

Picture credit: tripnstay.com

Photo of Araku Valley, Andhra Pradesh, India by Danish Rajput

It's a spot that's unexplored by the travelers. Tranquil and serene environs, located in the Eastern Ghats nestled with lofty mountain ranges, glorious waterfalls, and curvy roads cutting down forest wilderness on both sides. You would get lost as more than 500-year-old trees will make you admire the untouched nature's beauty.

Start your day right with authentic coffee, Araku valley is famous for coffee plantations. Take time off and savor the traditional cuisines of this region; your heart will smile. The Araku valley is additionally known for the hot-air-balloon festival; you may get a glimpse of birds-eye view only if the weather is pleasant. One uncommon thing you will find here is luxurious camps when the temperature drops down, they provide electric blankets, a pricey option but feel warm in a new way. Hop around this epic beauty and capture endless moments.

Temperatures during Monsoon?

Araku Valley lies around 900 meters above sea level. June to October is the time of monsoon, and the average temperature is approximately 22.8 °C or 73 °F.

How to reach Araku Valley?

By Air: The closest airport is Visakhapatnam Airport, approximately 185 km away. The travelers can book a direct cab or hassle to reach the Aluva bus stand around 11 km away.

By Train: Araku valley has an Araku railway station (ARK).

By Road: The best route for Araku Valley is via NH 44 and NH 65. The State highway NH 5 connects via Vizag, around 114 km away, which will take you via coastlines and remote villages of the State.

The Scotland of East with clear skies, sparkling water landscapes, tranquil countryside blended with classic traditional cuisines.

Picture credit: Oyo Rooms

Photo of Shillong, Meghalaya, India by Danish Rajput

When I read its name, I often see it as chill-long and why not it’s called “Scotland of East”. Shillong is an ideal destination, a place where your eyes will stop blinking when you see its eternal beauty. I don't think words can describe this capital city that connects the natural world; it has got an essence. The mesmerizing nature, the rolling waterfalls from mountains of Cherrapunji, the crystal clear water-bodies, and the epic landscapes will leave you in awe.

Situated in North-east, a merrier world, preserving its old natural coniferous and pine forest, with gorgeous parks, oldest churches, tribal tradition, and a village “Mawlynnong” that earned the title of the cleanest village in Asia, a blend of all is something honorable and beyond words. That’s the beauty of this world experience and create priceless memories.

Temperatures during Monsoon?

Shillong lies around 1500 meters above sea level. June to September is the time of peak monsoon, and the average temperature is approximately 15 °C or 59 °F.

How to reach Shillong?

By Air: The closest airport is Guwahati Airport (GAU), approximately 118 km away. From there, the only transport is a private direct or share cabs. You can always negotiate the price there.

By Train: The nearest railway station Guwahati station (GHY) approximately 95 km away.

By Road: The travelers can drive through mesmerizing roads uphill via NH 40 via Guwahati.

The State Transport Corporation operates buses from Guwahati to Shillong at variable intervals.

The Queen of hills with fog blanket at hilly terrains, breathtaking sceneries, spiritual vibes, and world-famous tea estates.

Picture credit: Siliguri Tourism

Photo of Darjeeling, West Bengal, India by Danish Rajput

The best city-breaks in the Himalayan foothills. The city is famed with mountain ridges, spiritual retreats like old Churches and Buddhist monasteries. This region has hidden gems of history, rich culture, and natural heritage. The place is fun to go around with a toy train instead of a car, it is itself, a filmy experience. Darjeeling is iconic, as it's a favorite destination for movie shoots, you might be lucky to find one.

The wide-region of Darjeeling is famous for exporting “Tea” worldwide and one of the highest mountain peaks in the country called “Kanchenjunga”. The wintry climate of Darjeeling gives an adorable and cozy feeling. It all depends on how you create a moment when it showers – traditional dishes with world-class tea might alleviate you from the everyday hustle.

Temperatures during Monsoon?

Darjeeling lies around 2000 meters above sea level. June to August is the time of peak monsoon, and the average temperature is approximately 13 °C or 55.4 °F.

How to reach Darjeeling?

By Air: The closest airport is Bagdogra Airport, approximately 70 km away. From there, the only transport is a private direct or share cabs. You can always negotiate the price there.

By Train: The nearest railway station is Siliguri Junction or New Jalpaiguri (NJP), approximately 64 and 72 km away, respectively. From there, the best transport is private cabs or the toy–train. The State Transport has deluxe buses operating from Siliguri, a city that spans across Darjeeling.

By Road: The travelers can drive through the hilltop via NH 110 and NH 27. However, hiring or taking a personal car is recommended, along with an experienced driver.

It all starts from zero points with northern luster, Dewey weather, and a picturesque site nestled in the wooded hillside.

Picture credit: The Economic Times

Photo of Binsar, Uttarakhand, India by Danish Rajput

Situated in the Kumaon region, this place is sincerely underrated and a cut-off destination from travelers; it is famed for fantastic scenery at a mesmerizing high altitude elevation of around 2400 meters above sea level. Binsar town is a hidden gem for trekkers and people who love – lush green surroundings, enclosed woodland, wildlife sanctuaries, salubrious climate with mist covering the whole region, an ideal picturesque location.

It also has a 360° view of Himalayan peaks from the zero point, but the appearance is magnificent during winters. The winding roads across oak and rhododendron trees will keep you awestruck. This place is where you should grab your buddy and head off for escapade.

Temperatures during Monsoon?

July to September is the monsoon, October you will find pleasant weather. The average temperature is around 20 °C or 68 °F.

How to reach Binsar?

Make sure you avoid traveling or reaching late evenings as transportation is not convenient. Hence, it is advisable to plan your reach by early morning or afternoon.

By Air: The closest airport is Pantnagar Airport, approximately 140 km away. The most convenient travel is via cabs.

By Train: The nearest railhead to Binsar is Kathgodam Railway Station (KGM), approximately 120 km away. From there, local cabs, Private and State transport buses are available.

By Road: The connectivity through various cities is via NH 9 and NH 48 towards Binsar.

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Quick tip:

Make sure when you plan, view the climatic conditions in-and-around the region. Meteorological site of India (https://mausam.imd.gov.in), do help you with the forecast to keep you safe from a bad weather, after all it's Monsoon!

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