10 Safe, Fun Destinations To Experience The Magic Of Monsoon In India

NDTV

27-05-2025

The Indian monsoon isn't just about clogged streets and umbrella fails — it's also the season when the country's lushest, most charming destinations come alive. While some places may be best avoided due to landslides and waterlogging, there are plenty of spots where the rains only add to the beauty, not the hassle. If you're someone who loves misty mornings, lush green hills, and chai with a view, this one's for you. Here's a well-curated list of ten safest monsoon destinations in India that are not just stunning but also relatively easy to travel to between June and September.
Here Are 10 Safest Monsoon Destinations In India:
1. Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra
This hill station in the Western Ghats is a monsoon classic. Known for its strawberry farms and panoramic viewpoints, Mahabaleshwar looks like it's been dipped in green during the rains. Visit Arthur's Seat or Lingmala Waterfall, and you'll see why monsoon lovers keep coming back. The roads here are generally well-maintained, and the tourist infrastructure is quite solid, making it a relatively safe bet during the wet season.
2. Udaipur, Rajasthan
Rajasthan might scream 'desert', but Udaipur during the monsoon is a vibe. The 'City of Lakes' gets a romantic makeover when the rains fill up Lake Pichola and Fateh Sagar. The Aravalli hills turn a soft green, and the temperature becomes much more tolerable. Since Udaipur doesn't face typical monsoon hazards like landslides or flooding, it's a great pick for a stress-free holiday. Pro tip: Make sure to visit the Sajjangarh Palace (also known as the Monsoon Palace) for gorgeous rain-soaked views of the city.
3. Wayanad, Kerala
Nestled in Kerala's northern hills, Wayanad gets wrapped in thick mist and rolling greens come monsoon. Waterfalls like Meenmutty and Soochipara are at their most dramatic, and the tea plantations take on a fresh sparkle. While the region does receive heavy rainfall, Wayanad's infrastructure is generally prepared for it, and local hospitality here makes it a great rainy retreat.
4. Coorg, Karnataka
Nicknamed the 'Scotland of India', Coorg during monsoon is a dream. The spice plantations smell better, Abbey Falls is in full flow, and everything looks like a movie set. Roads might get slick, but they're usually safe for cautious travellers. The region's popularity also means plenty of good stays and local guidance, making it a low-risk, high-reward option.
5. Lonavala, Maharashtra
A Mumbai-Pune weekend staple, Lonavala becomes irresistibly pretty in the monsoon. From the fog-covered Rajmachi Fort to the gushing Bhushi Dam, everything here screams cosy. The town is also well-connected and used to monsoon tourism, so safety and accessibility aren't usually a concern. Just keep an eye on weather alerts if you plan to go trekking.
6. Goa
Photo: iStock
Hear us out — Goa in the monsoon is massively underrated. Sure, beach shacks shut down and the party crowd thins, but that's kind of the point. The greenery explodes, waterfalls like Dudhsagar come alive, and you get the state's charm without the chaos. Roads can get waterlogged, but central areas and top attractions remain accessible. Plus, monsoon discounts on fancy stays? Yes.
7. Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir
Contrary to what you might expect, Ladakh is one of the driest places during the Indian monsoon. While the rest of the country gets soaked, Ladakh — thanks to its location in the rain shadow region — remains relatively dry and sunny. This makes July to early September a sweet spot for visiting Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, and Leh, with minimal weather-related hiccups. Just be mindful of altitude sickness and always check for road conditions if you're planning a road trip via Manali or Srinagar.
8. Munnar, Kerala
Yes, it rains a lot in Munnar — but it rains beautifully. The tea estates glisten, the waterfalls roar, and the tourist crowds thin out, which means more peace and lower prices. Roads can be slippery, but major routes are usually functional. Avoid venturing too deep into the hills, and you're good to go. Plus, hot chai in a colonial-style bungalow? Yes, please.
9. Mount Abu, Rajasthan
Rajasthan's only hill station, Mount Abu is a cool break from the otherwise arid state. The monsoon here is light to moderate, just enough to add mist to Nakki Lake and make the Dilwara Temples gleam. It's not prone to extreme weather conditions, and with fewer crowds, it becomes a serene escape.
10. Shillong, Meghalaya
Photo: iStock
Shillong wears the monsoon like a crown. Often referred to as the 'Scotland of the East', it gets drenched but not disrupted. With cascading waterfalls and cloud-covered valleys, it's postcard-perfect. Places like Elephant Falls and Laitlum Canyons are safe to visit, though it's best to avoid remote treks during heavy spells. Bonus: Cherrapunji and Mawsynram, two of the wettest places on Earth, are just a short drive away.