As August rolls in, India experiences the full glory of the monsoon season. This month marks the peak of the rainy season in the country, with lush green landscapes, gushing waterfalls, and a foggy vibe that adds an extra layer of magic. From cascading waterfalls to mist-covered mountains and thriving wildlife, several unique destinations in India come alive during August.
Lonavala, Maharashtra
Lonavala in August is a web of greens that makes for a beautiful sight. As the rains descend on this picturesque hill town, some 64 km from Pune and 96 km from Mumbai, its many waterfalls and creeks come alive. The weather is pleasant, and there are lots of activities to look forward to. From camping at Pawna Lake and hiking to Tikona Fort, to enjoying a serene picnic at Bushi Dam on the banks of the Indrayani River, there is something for everyone to enjoy amidst the green hills of Lonavala.
Getting There To reach Munnar, one can fly from either Mumbai or Pune airports or take the train on the Mumbai-Pune route.
Valley of Flowers, Uttarakhand
Located in Uttarakhand, the Valley of Flowers transforms into a kaleidoscope of colours in August. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its meadows adorned with countless alpine flowers, painting the landscape with beautiful hues.
Getting There The valley is accessible via a trek from Govindghat, which is well-connected by road from Rishikesh and Haridwar.
Jog Falls, Karnataka
Jog Falls, located in the Shimoga district of Karnataka, is a spectacle that reaches its zenith during the monsoon season. This majestic waterfall, formed by the Sharavathi River, cascades in four distinct streams. The abundant rainfall in August adds to the grandeur of the falls, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.
Getting There The nearest airport is Mangalore, from where one can hire a cab to reach Jog Falls.
Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
Known as the "Princess of Hill Stations," Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu is considered one of the most charming destinations during the monsoon season. The misty landscapes, enveloped by rolling clouds, will make you feel like you've stepped into a small-town mystery thriller. While in Kodaikanal, visit the Silver Cascade Waterfall, which is in its full glory this month.
Getting There To reach Kodaikanal, one can fly to Madurai or Coimbatore and then take a scenic drive to the hill station.
Shillong, Meghalaya
August is the best time to visit Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya. Fondly known as the "Scotland of the East," Shillong's lush green hills and cascading waterfalls come alive during this season. The famous Elephant Falls, with abundant monsoon rainfall, becomes a visual spectacle.
Getting There To reach Shillong, one can fly to Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati and then undertake a picturesque drive to the city.
Udaipur, Rajasthan
Embraced by the Aravalis, Udaipur is also known as the City of Lakes, surrounded by many lakes, making it a favoured romantic destination by couples. Between its fair share of lakes and royal palaces, the city's beauty shines through come monsoon, making it a sought-after destination for the season. Whether it's boating on Lake Pichola or exploring Bagore Ki Haveli and Lake Palace, Udaipur's beauty is sure to captivate the hearts of discerning travellers during the rainy season.
Getting There The nearest railway station is the Udaipur Railway Station and Dabok Airport, some 22 km from the city, is the nearest airport.
Cover Photo Credits Shutterstock
ALSO READ Monsoon In Landour With Ruskin Bond