The daily humdrum of life leaves little time to ponder about the present moment. In the rat race to excel and secure a future, we never live in the present moment. So an important question to ask is – Do we “live to work” or “work to live”?  So let’s revisit the saying of the wise Gautam Buddha – “Do not dwell in the past, do not dream of the future, concentrate the mind on the present moment”

So this monsoon, take a break, revitalise, and rejuvenate yourself, for if there is no rest and relaxation, the body and mind both go into overdrive. One of the best ways to rejuvenate is to travel to near and faraway places, experience new things and cultures, and create life-long memories. So here are some of the best places to visit during monsoon season. But before you step out, get some basic checks done:

 - Right location selection

 - Weather check

 - Transportation

 - Accommodation

 - Things to do

 - And last but not least, Budget

Monsoon is one of the best weathers to travel with the aim to relax and enjoy the scenery. The drizzling rain often feels like it is spreading this blanket of cold water that illuminates, feeds, and livens us and everything around us. The first drops of rain bring out the child in us and invigorates our spirits.

Some of the top destinations that come to mind this season, are especially panoramic in the wet climate are detailed below - 

1. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

Famously known as the Princess of Hills, this beautiful place called Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu is also the most famous honeymoon destination in India. There are some places that come into the spotlight seasonally but Kodaikanal has a weather that frees your soul and gives it wings. While this place is blessed with amazing weather around the year, monsoon makes it especially picturesque. Resting on an elevation of 2000m above sea level, the abundantly green place tops the charts of “must-see” places in India.

Kodaikanal is known for its profuse green forested valleys, waterfalls, hills, and of course the fantastic views! One of the many attractions that lure the nose of an explorer is the star-shaped man-made lake at Kodaikanal city in Dindigul district in Tamil Nadu, India. Bear shola falls, Glen Falls, Fairy Falls, and Silver Cascade are the names of some of the famous waterfalls located in Kodaikanal. Bear Shola is the seasonal rock star that takes the stage every monsoon. If you have a liking for hills, vast open wide forests, animals, and earthy time, then Kodaikanal is the destination for you.

2. Munnar, Kerala

From the southern parts of the country is yet another location blessed with exotic weather throughout the year but the beauty is all the more amplified when the first droplets of monsoons start greeting the place with a hearty welcome. The sunset at Pothamedu viewpoint is breathtaking. If you are an avid wildlife lover, visit the Eravikulam National Park, which is dotted with lush green forests and where the tourist zone of the park can be explored by foot. Another unique attraction is the Shikara boat tour at Kundala Lake.

If you want to live with nature, relax and unwind, what you are seeking is Munnar. There are so many things you can do here. The elephant ride at Carmelagiri Park in Munnar holds the special attention of the children and family crowd. The Kannan Devan Tea Museum offers the most exotic variety of teas with a tour of the Tea History is one of the main attractions.

3. Pondicherry

Moving slightly north, but still in south India is the calm before the storm, Pondicherry. Pondicherry is a former French colony and is settled on the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal, 170 km away from Chennai. The place is known for being hot and humid all year round and the showers of blessing bring about a balmy change.

Pondicherry has many beautiful beaches to explore. These beaches are so well maintained with the deep blue sea and white sands, giving you a dreamy, European experience. The top beach to visit when in Pondicherry would be Serenity Beach located 10 km away from Pondicherry (The original name is Kottakuppam Beach or Thanthirayan Kuppam Beach). Located at a short distance from Kannur city (22 km southwards) is Mahe Beach. Paradise Beach is an island beach, which is only accessible via boat.

Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Pondicherry Museum, and Chunnambar Boat House are some of the other renowned places to see in this popular tourist destination.

4. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand

Now coming up north to one of the biggest states of northern India, Uttarakhand. Known as the “Queen of Hills”, Mussoorie shines clarity over the mind-blowing beauty of the expanse. The place withholds cloudy mountains and a glorious view of the Himalayas. Its clear, fresh air, green floors, and blue clean skies give you a sheer fulfilling experience on the entire journey.

Mussoorie offers stunning natural sights, tranquil hills, and a cool and pleasant climate. Above all, a truly purified snapshot of nature at its best. Some interesting places to visit would be Kempty Falls, Gun Hills, Camel’s back road, Tibba, and last but not least Jabarkhet Wildlife Reserve.

5. Goa

What can I say about this little state in the Western Ghats that’s called the “Hawaii” of India? The land of the sun, sand, and beaches, Goa is an extremely busy and populated place for a state of that size. While the typical season time for the state is between November to February, in recent times, the place has attracted more tourists during monsoons as well. The monsoon showers accentuate the greenery and captivate you with its beauty.

Nature trails, treks, and trips to the waterfalls are the highlights of the season for a Goan tourist. Goa’s popular wildlife sanctuaries like Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary, which is located in North Goa near Valpoi, or the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary located near Ponda a haven for many wild animals. The famous Dudhsagar Falls or Harvalem waterfall is a delight with overflowing waterfalls, which are exhilarating.  What can keep the tourist glued to this state is the food – the fresh sizzling seafood in small or big places and the exotic variety due to the sheer cultural variety in Goa makes it a foodie’s paradise. A truly riveting place for a monsoon holiday where the party never ends is a must-see for all tourists young and old alike.

Also Read: Here are a few ways you can boost your immunity this monsoon season

References

Holidify
Indian Holiday Pvt. Ltd.
TripAdvisor India
Makemytrip