Unlike
popular belief, travelling during monsoon can be quite enjoyable and affordable
in India. After the sweaty summers, one can explore the beauty of the Indian
landscape during the rains from June till around October. Around this time,
both crowds and prices come down steeply.
There
are many places in different corners of India, which unveils a new story during
monsoon but we will tell you about few important, accessible and tourist friendly
ones.
1. Munnar
in Kerala
Munnar,
a beautiful hill station located in the backdrop of the lush green steeps of
Western Ghats is one of the most sought after monsoon destinations in India and
also known for its extensive tea estates and spice gardens. The scenic beauty of the
greenery covering the undulating hills contouring the deep valley is just
breath-taking. Enjoying the flora and fauna during the rainy season also has
its own thrill.One can enjoy a quite retreat staying in resorts within the tea
valley savouring fish delicacies. One can also take a sneak peek to Alleppey
and Periyar National Park, a wildlife sanctuary famous for Indian elephants.
While
in Kerala, do not forget to shop for home
grown spices,
local delicacies such as Cheepappam, Kuzhalappam,
Avalos Unda, Churrutu and Achappam and handmade Aranmula
mirror.
(Image
Courtesy: kerala-tour-package)
2. Coorg
in Karnataka
Another
hill station in the heart of Western Ghats, Coorg is considered the most
favourite destination in Karnataka. Clad in beautiful hills, waterfalls and
huge stretch of coffee plantation, Coorg has an array of affordable home stays that
stand out with their hospitality. Enjoying the green foliage of nature drenched
in rain with delectable traditional cuisines like bamboo shoot curry and rice
dumpling (Kadumbuttu) is a pleasing experience. Coorg is also famous for its
wines and beverages. Some of the other places to visit in Karnataka during this
time are Chikmanglur, Gokarna, Jog falls, Mullangiri etc. Jog Falls, the second
highest plunge pool surrounded by green forests is a major tourist attraction.
(Image
Courtesy: trip-go-trip)
3. Goa
Goa
has always been a fun destination for both Indians and foreign tourists. Apart
from beaches, sand and sun, Goa also offers a picturesque scenery, beautiful
waterfalls, dense forests and wildlife sanctuaries. Dudhsagar Falls or Sea of Milk is a thrill to
visit during this season when the waterfall looks like a flow of milk down the
mountain with thriving forests around. One should also enjoy the evening boat
cruise down the Mandovi River which in itself is a magical experience. Overall
Goa during monsoon is as happening as any other season with off season
discounts, serene ambience and palatable traditional fish curry and other sea
food eateries.
(Image
Courtesy: hill-stations.tourtravelworld)
4. Pachmarhi
in Madhya Pradesh
Next
on the list is Pachmarhi, a lesser known yet a majestic and cosy monsoon retreat
from Central India. Also known as Queen of Saputara ranges, Pachmarhi will
enchant you with its verdant forest reserves, mythological roots and glorious
history. A few of must visit monsoon attractions in Pachmarhi are V-shaped
Handi Khoh Hills, Dhoopgarh sunrise and sunset point, Mahadeo rock paintings,
Pandava Caves and Saputara National Park. This lovely hill station also has
magnificent waterfalls such as Bee Fall, Duchess Fall, Silver Fall and Apsara Vihar, all of which come alive in full force in the rainy
season.
Your
trip to Madhya Pradesh would be incomplete if you do not include the
mouth-watering namkeens and other savoury delights
in your shopping bag!
(Image
Courtesy: ghummakar)
5. Leh
– Ladakh in Jammu and Kashmir
The
Cold Dessert of the North is the most amazing place to visit during monsoon. The
rugged terrain, intertwined mountain passes, emerald lakes and virgin valley
bathed in sunshine is a breath of fresh air.
It is highly accessible during monsoon as roads are clear to travel and
the drive is an awesome experience. The place is also dotted with monasteries
and historical monuments. Trekking and river rafting are also major attractions.
The festivities open during monsoon which includes spectacular procession of
dancing and singing villagers in traditional costumes. Some of the local
cuisines include butter tea, momos, chhang (local brewed barley) and tsampa
(roasted barley flour) including rice.
Along
with taking back a treasure of memories; why not also pick up exclusive and authentic
Kashmiri products
such KagziBadam, MamraGiri, Walnut Kernels White, Dried Apricots and Kashmiri
Willow Cricket Bats on your way back to home?
(Image
Courtesy: aapkisaheli )
Are
you ready to pack your bags and get ready to drench in one of the most captivating
vacations this monsoon?
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