10 Hill Stations to Visit in the Rainy Season

Monsoon is the magical time of year when the heavens open up, drenching the earth in a symphony of raindrops and transforming the landscape into a lush, verdant wonderland. For the intrepid traveller, the rainy season in India offers a unique, enchanting experience that’s hard to find anywhere else. From the misty hills of the Western Ghats to the mysterious valleys of the Himalayas, every corner of the country brims with beauty, romance, and adventure.

Munnar, Kerala

Nestled in the Western Ghats, Munnar is a haven for tea lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. As the rain showers kiss the emerald tea plantations, the landscape transforms into a lush, green paradise. The mist-clad mountains, roaring waterfalls, and cool, crisp air make Munnar a perfect escape from the summer heat. Don’t miss the Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, and the scenic Mattupetty Dam. For a quirky touch, visit the Tea Museum to sip on some history.

• Temperature: 15°C – 25°C during monsoon
• Nearby Tourist Attractions: Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, Tea Museum
• Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (110 km)
• Nearest Railway Station: Aluva Railway Station (110 km)

Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh

Spiti Valley, often referred to as “Little Tibet,” offers a stark contrast to the lush greenery of Munnar. This high-altitude desert valley becomes even more mesmerising during the monsoon, with its barren landscapes occasionally dotted by patches of greenery. The monasteries here, like Key Monastery and Tabo Monastery, seem almost otherworldly in the rain. For the adventurous, the treacherous roads and unpredictable weather make the journey an exhilarating challenge.

• Temperature: 0°C – 15°C during monsoon
• Nearby Tourist Attractions: Key Monastery, Tabo Monastery, Pin Valley National Park
• Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport (245 km)
• Nearest Railway Station: Shimla Railway Station (430 km)

Cherrapunji, Meghalaya

When you’re talking about the rainy season, how can you miss the wettest place on earth? Cherrapunji, in the heart of Meghalaya, is famous for its living root bridges and stunning waterfalls. During the monsoon, the town is engulfed in a thick blanket of clouds and mist, giving it an almost mystical aura. The Nohkalikai Falls, plunging down from a height of 1,115 feet, is a sight to behold in its full monsoon glory. For a quirky experience, walk across the living root bridges that sway gently in the rain.

• Temperature: 12°C – 20°C during monsoon
• Nearby Tourist Attractions: Nohkalikai Falls, Double Decker Living Root Bridge, Mawsmai Cave
• Nearest Airport: Shillong Airport (80 km)
• Nearest Railway Station: Guwahati Railway Station (150 km)

Coorg, Karnataka

Known as the “Scotland of India,” Coorg is a picturesque hill station that comes alive during the monsoon. The rolling hills, covered in coffee plantations, are enveloped in mist and the aroma of fresh coffee. The Abbey Falls and Iruppu Falls are at their majestic best, thundering down amidst lush greenery. For a quirky twist, visit a local coffee plantation and learn about the process of coffee-making, from bean to cup.

• Temperature: 15°C – 25°C during monsoon
• Nearby Tourist Attractions: Abbey Falls, Iruppu Falls, Dubare Elephant Camp
• Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport (160 km)
• Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Railway Station (120 km)

Valley of Flowers, Uttarakhand

The Valley of Flowers National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that comes alive during the monsoon. This high-altitude valley is blanketed with a vibrant carpet of flowers, from daisies and poppies to marigolds and orchids. The trek to the valley, though challenging due to the rain-soaked trails, is a rewarding experience for nature lovers and photographers. Each step reveals a new burst of colour and a fresh fragrance, making it a truly enchanting journey.

• Temperature: 7°C – 20°C during monsoon
• Nearby Tourist Attractions: Hemkund Sahib, Nanda Devi National Park, Ghangaria
• Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (295 km)
• Nearest Railway Station: Rishikesh Railway Station (275 km)

Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

Kodaikanal, known as the “Princess of Hill Stations,” is a charming retreat in the Western Ghats. Renowned for its mist-covered cliffs, serene lakes, and lush forests, Kodaikanal offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The star-shaped Kodaikanal Lake, Coaker’s Walk, and Bryant Park are must-visit spots. The cool climate and pristine natural beauty make it a perfect monsoon destination.

• Temperature: 10°C – 20°C during monsoon
• Nearby Tourist Attractions: Kodaikanal Lake, Coaker’s Walk, Bryant Park
• Nearest Airport: Madurai Airport (120 km)
• Nearest Railway Station: Kodai Road Railway Station (80 km)

Darjeeling, West Bengal

Darjeeling, the “Queen of the Hills,” is renowned for its breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga, lush tea gardens, and colonial-era architecture. During the monsoon, the hills are enveloped in mist, creating a magical atmosphere. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a scenic ride through the mountains. Don’t miss the vibrant local markets and the serene Peace Pagoda.

• Temperature: 13°C – 19°C during monsoon
• Nearby Tourist Attractions: Tiger Hill, Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Peace Pagoda
• Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport (70 km)
• Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (62 km)

Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra

Mahabaleshwar, a charming hill station in the Western Ghats, is famous for its strawberries and mist-covered vistas. The monsoon transforms this quaint town into a paradise of lush greenery and cascading waterfalls. Visit the Mapro Garden for a quirky twist, where you can indulge in delicious strawberry treats while sipping on fresh strawberry juice. The Venna Lake, surrounded by misty hills, offers a perfect setting for a serene boat ride in the rain.

• Temperature: 20°C – 25°C during monsoon
• Nearby Tourist Attractions: Venna Lake, Mapro Garden, Pratapgad Fort
• Nearest Airport: Pune Airport (120 km)
• Nearest Railway Station: Wathar Railway Station (60 km)

Shillong, Meghalaya

Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, is often referred to as the “Scotland of the East.” During the monsoon, the city is enveloped in a veil of mist, with waterfalls cascading down the hillsides and clouds hanging low over the green landscape. The Elephant Falls and Shillong Peak offer breathtaking views, while the local markets brimming with vibrant handicrafts provide a quirky shopping experience. Don’t forget to try the local delicacies at the street food stalls, which come alive during the rainy season.

• Temperature: 15°C – 23°C during monsoon
• Nearby Tourist Attractions: Elephant Falls, Shillong Peak, Umiam Lake
• Nearest Airport: Shillong Airport (35 km)
• Nearest Railway Station: Guwahati Railway Station (100 km)

Wayanad, Kerala

Wayanad, with its dense forests and spice plantations, is a perfect monsoon retreat. The rain rejuvenates the region, turning it into a lush, green paradise. The Edakkal Caves, with their ancient rock engravings, offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history, while the Meenmutty and Soochipara Falls roar with newfound vigour. For a quirky touch, take a guided tour of a spice plantation and learn about the various spices that make Kerala’s cuisine so delectable.

• Temperature: 18°C – 29°C during monsoon
• Nearby Tourist Attractions: Edakkal Caves, Meenmutty Falls, Soochipara Falls
• Nearest Airport: Calicut International Airport (100 km)
• Nearest Railway Station: Kozhikode Railway Station (95 km)

The monsoon season in India is not just about getting drenched; it’s about experiencing the country in a whole new light. The rain brings out the true essence of these destinations, making them more vibrant, more alive, and more enchanting. So, whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or a romantic at heart, these 10 places will offer you an unforgettable rainy season escapade.