Havelock Island, Andaman(01 of19)
Open Image ModalKovalam(02 of19)
Open Image ModalMunnar(03 of19)
Open Image ModalVarkala(04 of19)
Open Image ModalGoa(05 of19)
Open Image ModalCoorg(06 of19)
Open Image ModalAfter hitting Goa, the monsoon makes a beeline for Karnataka. The well-recognised hill station of Coorg is one of the best places in the state to experience the rains along with a steaming cup of coffee. Tadiyandamol and Brahmagiri are ideal options for trekkers and campers, although one should be vigilant about small snakes and slippery paths. River rafting also picks up during the monsoon here at the rivers Barapole and Kaveri. Coorg also has many waterfalls that swell to the peak and are a delight to watch – Chingara, Irpu, Mallalli and Cheluvara are a few one can visit. (credit:Joe Ravi via Getty Images)
Agumbe(07 of19)
Open Image ModalMalshej Ghat(08 of19)
Open Image ModalFamous for its flamingoes and other types of fauna that flock around, Malshej Ghat can prove a fun and comfortable monsoon trip, given its smattering of private resorts as well as campsites. Head to Darkoba Peak for some rock climbing or trekking, or simply admire the many waterfalls that seemingly sprout out of nowhere in this area. (credit:RBB via Getty Images)
Kaas Plateau(09 of19)
Open Image ModalSituated near Satara, Kaas Plateau is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The monsoon season is the best time to visit this belt, hosting as it does over 850 different species of flowers. The endless variety of flowers blossoming underneath an overcast sky make it the perfect romantic getaway. The drive from Satara to Kaas is also beautiful with many interesting stops such as Sajjangad fort that houses the samadhi of saint Ramdas Swami, Shivsagar lake and Pateshwar, an old Shiva temple. (credit:(c) Anand Joshi via Getty Images)
Thoseghar Falls(10 of19)
Open Image ModalThere are a series of waterfalls located near the village of Thoseghar, ranging from 20 - 500 metres in height. The best time to visit these falls is during the monsoon, when there is a heavier flow of water. Even if it can get slightly crowded at the waterfalls, the area offers quiet respite from the busy city of Mumbai. (credit:www.chitrakatha.in via Getty Images)
Bakkhali(11 of19)
Open Image ModalOne of the many islands dotting southern Bengal, this quiet seaside resort offers a beautiful view of the monsoon rolling in from the Bay of Bengal. A short walk through the mangroves will bring you to a seven-kilometre long beach with hard sand that makes it ideal to walk or cycle across its length. Aside from this and the rich variety of seafood there is not much to do here, making it ideal for a quick weekend getaway. Make sure you carry a flashlight and enough cash as there are no ATMs here. (credit:Krishnendu Chatterjee via Getty Images)
Jim Corbett(12 of19)
Open Image Modal Bad roads notwithstanding, the pristine Jim Corbett National Park can be a beautiful destination to take in the monsoons as they make their way across the sub-continent. The park is partly closed during this season, effectively slowing down the rush of tourists, which can be a blessing if you are looking for some peace and quiet. While the weather can get quite humid, the forests here take on brilliant shades of green and are dotted with brimming lakes and ponds that are visited by frolicking animals and a plethora of birds. (credit:Safique Hazarika Photography via Getty Images)
Cherrapunji(13 of19)
Open Image ModalIt rains in Cherrapunji when moisture-laden clouds approaching from the Bay of Bengal hit the Khasi hills. Most of the rain here occurs in the mornings. The city is also famous for its ‘living root bridges’ which are shaped by manipulating the aerial roots of Banyan tress across rivers streams over many years so that they can be used as bridges by people. (credit:Mahesh via Getty Images)
Shillong(14 of19)
Open Image Modal Though not frequented often during the monsoon months, Shillong is at its most beautiful during the season. The sight of the rolling Khasi hills enveloped by misty clouds, stunning wild flowers and swelling waterfalls makes it worth getting drenched in the rain. The biggest advantage of the off-season, is good bargains for hotels and food. A trip to the All Saints Cathedral, and the Don Bosco Museum of Indigneous Cultures is a must-do. Shillong's golf course during this time is best avoided. (credit:Danielrao via Getty Images)
Valley Of Flowers(15 of19)
Open Image ModalPossibly one of the most beautiful treks in India, the Valley of Flowers is transformed into a kaleidoscope of wild flowers such as zinnias, petunias and poppies, between June and September. It also hosts several species of butterflies and endangered animals such as the mountain leopard and the blue sheep. A moderately challenging climb (the entire trek can take a week), the 10-kilometre valley is situated at a height of 3,600 metres above the sea level. (credit:John Brown via Getty Images)
Zanskar Valley(16 of19)
Open Image ModalZanskar Valley, a popular trekking route during the month of January, also offers some excellent trekking trails and an opportunity to go white-water rafting during the monsoon months. One can sample some excellent food, and witness the region's colourful cultural dances at the many festivals that occur during this time (June to September). (credit:www.tonnaja.com via Getty Images)
Courtallam(17 of19)
Open Image ModalOften referred to as the Spa of Southern India, on account of the numerous health and wellness resorts it hosts, Courtallam witnesses heavier rains during the months of October to December, and lighter showers from June to September. It is frequented more often during the latter months for its waterfalls (Thenaruvi, Aintharuvi and Peraruvi) and scenic temples (Thirukutralanaadhar Temple and Thirumalai Kovil). (credit:Martin Siepmann via Getty Images)
Kodaikanal(18 of19)
Open Image ModalKodaikanal takes on a greener hue in October, during the monsoon season. It is preferable to cycle or walk around the lake instead of trekking across its slippery hills. Visitors must leave with several bottles of eucalyptus oil, which is available in ample quantity. (credit:Paddy Photography via Getty Images)
Kanyakumari(19 of19)
Open Image ModalThe best time to visit Kanyakumari is during October, which is just before the monsoons set in. The famous Vivekananda memorial (set amidst the sea) attracts larger crowds during this time. One can also participate in the Cape Festival, a three-day affair (celebrated around this time). (credit:Soumya Sumitra Behera via Getty Images)