Best Places to Visit in Monsoon in South India

Athirapally is famously known for its majestic waterfalls, which are even more impressive during the monsoon season. The surrounding rainforests are drenched in vibrant green, offering a dramatic backdrop to the roaring falls. The monsoon transforms the region into a tropical paradise, with mist-laden air and thundering water creating a surreal experience. Athirapally’s raw natural beauty makes it one of the most captivating spots to visit in Kerala during the rains.

Known For : Emerald Lake, Yercaud Pagoda Point Botanical Garden, Yercaud

Yercaud’s calm and unspoiled beauty is enhanced during the monsoon, with its emerald-green forests and orange groves looking more vibrant than ever. The cool climate and misty hills make it a perfect destination for long drives, hikes, and exploration. Yercaud’s peaceful surroundings and enchanting views of the Shevaroy Hills create an ideal setting for relaxation. The rainy season brings out the best in this quaint hill station, making it a must-visit spot.

Best Time: October to June

20 Yercaud Attractions

Known For : Tipu's Drop Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple Tipu's Summer Residence

Nandi Hills becomes a misty paradise during the monsoon, with the rain adding a fresh layer of greenery to its hills and valleys. The cool weather and serene surroundings make it a perfect spot for hiking and outdoor activities. The rain-fed streams and waterfalls offer a refreshing break from the heat, creating picture-perfect moments. Nandi Hills’ tranquil charm and lush scenery make it a great place to visit during the rainy season.

Best Time: October to June

12 Nandi Hills Attractions

Known For : Houseboats in Alleppey Alleppey Backwaters Kuttanad

Alleppey, the Venice of the East, becomes even more magical during the monsoon, with its backwaters reflecting the moody skies. Houseboat rides through the rain-washed canals offer a serene and unique way to experience the region’s natural beauty. The lush green paddy fields and coconut groves look especially vibrant during the rainy season. Alleppey’s tranquil charm and peaceful waters make it an idyllic monsoon retreat.

Best Time: June to March

37 Alleppey Attractions

Known For : Nilgiri Mountain Railway Ooty Lake Emerald Lake, Ooty

Ooty, nestled in the Nilgiri Hills, takes on a new life in the monsoon, with its rolling tea gardens and mist-covered peaks providing a stunning sight. The cool, wet weather adds a magical feel to the hill station, making boat rides on Ooty Lake and strolls through the botanical gardens even more enjoyable. The monsoon brings out the region’s lush greenery, and visitors can cozy up by a fire in the charming colonial bungalows. Ooty offers a refreshing and scenic retreat in the rainy season.

Best Time: Throughout the year

43 Ooty Attractions

Known For : Borra Caves Katiki Waterfalls Chaparai Waterfalls

Araku Valley’s misty hills, coffee plantations, and rain-soaked landscapes make it a stunning monsoon destination. The region’s waterfalls, such as Chaparai Falls, are in full flow during this time, adding to the valley’s natural charm. The cool weather and lush greenery offer a peaceful retreat for those looking to relax in nature. Araku Valley’s unspoiled beauty and tranquil surroundings make it a great place to escape during the monsoon.

Best Time: September to February

8 Araku Valley Attractions

Known For : Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary Golden Valley Mini Zoo, Ponmudi

Ponmudi’s rolling hills and dense forests are enveloped in mist during the monsoon, creating an ethereal atmosphere. The rain adds a fresh layer of greenery to its tea gardens and valleys, making it an ideal place for nature walks and hikes. The monsoon showers enhance the beauty of the region’s waterfalls and streams, offering a refreshing break from the heat. Ponmudi’s untouched beauty and peaceful ambiance make it a hidden gem in Kerala during the rainy season.

Best Time: November to May

5 Ponmudi Attractions

Known For : Madumalai National Park The Jungle Safari Theppakadu Elephant Camp

Mudumalai National Park becomes a wildlife haven during the monsoon, with its dense forests and grasslands teeming with life. The rain brings out the best in the park’s flora and fauna, making it a great time for wildlife safaris. The lush greenery and cool weather create a perfect environment for spotting elephants, tigers, and various bird species. Mudumalai’s rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes make it a top monsoon destination for nature lovers.

Best Time: December to June

3 Mudumalai Attractions

Valparai’s tea plantations and lush forests come alive during the monsoon, with the rains enhancing the beauty of its rolling hills and valleys. The cool weather and misty atmosphere make it a perfect destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The rain-fed waterfalls and streams offer a refreshing break from the heat, creating picture-perfect moments. Valparai’s serene landscapes and peaceful ambiance make it a great place to visit during the rainy season.

Best Time: December to January

Known For : Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary Chembara peak Soochipara Falls

Vythiri, tucked away in the rainforests of Wayanad, is a peaceful retreat during the monsoon, with its dense forests and serene lakes coming alive in the rain. The cool, misty weather makes it an ideal spot for relaxing in nature, with treetop huts and eco-resorts adding to the experience. The rain-washed surroundings are perfect for treks and wildlife spotting, with the region’s rich biodiversity on full display. Vythiri’s tranquility and lush landscapes make it a great monsoon getaway.

Best Time: October to Apr

5 Vythiri Attractions

Known For : Sim's Park Dolphin's Nose Ketti Valley

Coonoor’s misty hills and verdant landscapes are especially enchanting during the monsoon, with the rains adding a fresh layer of greenery to its tea gardens and forests. The cool weather and serene surroundings make it an ideal spot for long walks and scenic drives. The rain enhances the beauty of its viewpoints, such as Dolphin’s Nose and Lamb’s Rock, offering stunning vistas of the Nilgiri Hills. Coonoor’s tranquil charm and lush scenery make it a must-visit monsoon destination.

Best Time: October to March

17 Coonoor Attractions

Silent Valley National Park, with its dense forests and rich biodiversity, becomes a lush green paradise during the monsoon. The rain brings out the vibrancy of the park’s flora and fauna, making it a great time for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The cool weather and misty atmosphere create a perfect environment for exploring the park’s trails and spotting rare species. Silent Valley’s untouched beauty and serene ambiance make it a great monsoon destination for nature lovers.

Known For : Ulipooni Wildlife Sanctuary Kurisumala Vagamon Falls

Vagamon’s rolling meadows, misty hills, and cool weather make it a tranquil escape during the monsoon season. The rain enhances the beauty of its tea gardens and valleys, creating a refreshing and peaceful environment. Vagamon’s serene surroundings and picturesque landscapes are perfect for trekking and nature walks. The monsoon adds a touch of magic to Vagamon, making it one of Kerala’s hidden gems during the rainy season.

Best Time: October - March

17 Vagamon Attractions

Gavi’s rain-soaked forests and misty hills make it a peaceful retreat during the monsoon season. The rain enhances the beauty of its waterfalls and lakes, creating a refreshing and serene environment. The cool weather and lush greenery make it an ideal spot for nature walks and wildlife spotting. Gavi’s tranquil charm and unspoiled landscapes make it a hidden gem in Kerala during the rainy season.

Known For : Abbey Falls Mandalpatti Raja's Seat

Coorg transforms into a verdant paradise during the monsoon, with its coffee plantations, waterfalls, and hills bathed in rain. The sight of mist rising from the valleys and the sound of the rain cascading through lush forests make Coorg a haven for nature lovers. Visitors can indulge in treks, explore coffee estates, or simply relax amidst the serenity of the region. The monsoon amplifies Coorg’s already breathtaking landscapes, making it one of the most refreshing destinations.

Best Time: October to March

37 Coorg Attractions

Known For : Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary Kumarakom Backwaters Thanneermukkom Bund

Kumarakom, located on the banks of Vembanad Lake, is a haven of serenity during the monsoon season. The rain-laden skies, misty backwaters, and lush greenery create a calming atmosphere for visitors looking to unwind. The monsoon also brings migratory birds to the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, offering great birdwatching opportunities. The tranquil houseboat rides and rejuvenating Ayurvedic treatments make Kumarakom a perfect monsoon destination.

Best Time: October - February

18 Kumarakom Attractions

Known For : Green Valley View (Suicide Point) Kodaikanal Lake Bear Shola Falls

Kodaikanal, often referred to as the “Princess of Hill Stations,” becomes a misty haven during the monsoon. Its serene lakes, lush forests, and cool climate offer a peaceful retreat from the heat. The rain brings out the beauty of waterfalls like Silver Cascade and Bear Shola Falls, creating picture-perfect moments. The tranquil atmosphere, combined with the scent of pine and eucalyptus, makes Kodaikanal one of the most serene monsoon getaways.

Best Time: September to May

35 Kodaikanal Attractions

Known For : Kudremukh Trek Kudremukh National Park Hanuman Gundi Falls

Kudremukh’s dense forests and rolling hills turn into a lush green sanctuary during the monsoon, offering stunning trekking opportunities. The rain-fed streams, waterfalls, and valleys become even more enchanting, making it a paradise for nature lovers. Trekking to the Kudremukh Peak during the monsoon is a thrilling adventure, with misty views and verdant landscapes greeting you at every turn. The monsoon makes Kudremukh an ideal destination for those seeking adventure amidst nature.

Best Time: October to May

10 Kudremukh Attractions

Known For : Agaya Gangai Waterfalls Arappaleeswarar Temple Siddhar Caves

Kolli Hills’ winding roads, misty peaks, and cool weather make it a peaceful retreat during the monsoon season. The rain enhances the beauty of its forests and waterfalls, creating a refreshing and serene environment. Kolli Hills’ scenic viewpoints and trekking trails offer stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape. The monsoon adds a touch of magic to Kolli Hills, making it one of Tamil Nadu’s hidden gems during the rainy season.

Best Time: March-June; August-December

4 Kolli Hills Attractions

Agumbe, one of the wettest places in India, is a rainforest paradise during the monsoon, with its dense forests and abundant wildlife. Known as the "Cherrapunji of the South," the rains bring out the beauty of its waterfalls, including the famed Barkana Falls and Jogigundi Falls. It’s also a great time for spotting rare species like the King Cobra and exploring the vibrant flora of the Western Ghats. Agumbe offers a raw and adventurous monsoon experience.

Horsley Hills, with its cool climate and lush greenery, is a peaceful retreat during the monsoon season. The rain enhances the beauty of its valleys and forests, making it an ideal place for nature walks and outdoor activities. The misty atmosphere and fresh air create a relaxing environment, perfect for unwinding. Horsley Hills offers a refreshing break from the heat and bustle of the city during the monsoon.

Known For : Punganur Lake Nature Park Jalagamparai Falls

Yelagiri’s cool climate and misty hills are at their best during the monsoon, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking peace and quiet. The rain enhances the beauty of its orchards, lakes, and valleys, making outdoor activities like boating and trekking even more enjoyable. The monsoon showers bring out a vibrant freshness in the air, making it a rejuvenating experience. Yelagiri offers a perfect escape from the bustling city life in this season.

Best Time: November to February

13 Yelagiri Attractions

Known For : Baba Budangiri Mullayanagiri Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

Known for its coffee plantations and scenic hillscapes, Chikmagalur becomes a lush green wonderland during the monsoon. The rain-fed waterfalls, such as Hebbe Falls and Jhari Falls, are in full flow, offering a spectacular sight. The cool, misty weather is perfect for sipping fresh coffee while enjoying the panoramic views. The combination of nature and tranquility makes Chikmagalur a top monsoon destination in South India.

Best Time: Throughout the year

22 Chikmagalur Attractions

Known For : Shore Temple Mahabalipuram Beach Five Rathas

Mahabalipuram’s ancient temples and rock-cut sculptures take on a unique charm during the monsoon, with the rain adding a mystical aura to the historic sites. The cool weather makes it pleasant to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its intricate carvings and architectural wonders. The rain-soaked beaches offer a peaceful setting for relaxation and reflection. Mahabalipuram’s blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it an intriguing monsoon destination.

Best Time: November to February

23 Mahabalipuram Attractions

Known For : Bekal Fort Bekal Beach Kappil Beach

Bekal’s iconic fort and pristine beaches come alive during the monsoon, with the rains adding a misty charm to its historic structures. The lush surroundings and swaying palms create a perfect setting for peaceful walks and photography. The coastal town offers a serene retreat with the Arabian Sea crashing against its rugged coastline. Monsoon is the best time to enjoy the verdant beauty and tranquil ambiance of Bekal.

Best Time: October to March

12 Bekal Attractions