Table of Contents
- 1. Munnar, Kerala
- Must Visit Places in Munnar
- How To Reach
- 2. Darjeeling, West Bengal
- Must-Visit Places in Darjeeling
- How To Reach Darjeeling
- 3. Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir
- Must-Visit Places in Ladakh
- How To Reach
- 4. Coorg, Karnataka
- Must Visit Places in Coorg
- How To Reach Coorg
- 5. Goa
- Must-Visit Places:
- How to Reach Goa?
- 6. Andaman and Nicobar Islands
- Must-Visit Places:
- How To Reach
- 7. Lonavala, Maharashtra
- Must-Visit Places:
- How To Reach Lonavala
- 8. Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh
- Must-Visit Places for Khajuraho
- How to Reach Khajuraho
- 9. Ooty, Tamil Nadu
- Must-Visit Places for Ooty
- How to Reach Ooty
- 10. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
- Must-Visit Places for Kodaikanal
- How to Reach Kodaikanal
- Faq's
The monsoon season in India is a magical time of year, transforming the country's landscapes into a lush, verdant tapestry. As the rain gently falls, the air becomes crisp and refreshing, inviting you to explore the hidden gems that come alive during this time. From the misty hills of Munnar to the serene beaches of Goa, India's diverse regions offer a wealth of experiences that are simply unparalleled.
August is a fantastic time to visit India, as the monsoon season brings a refreshing change to the country's climate. The lush green landscapes, waterfalls, and misty mountains create a breathtakingly beautiful backdrop for your travels.
Here are the top 10 places to visit in India during August:
1. Munnar, Kerala
Munnar is a popular hill station in the Idukki district of Kerala, known for its tea estates and beautiful hills. The weather stays mild, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing getaway. The lush green landscapes, waterfalls, and misty mountains create a breathtakingly beautiful backdrop for your travels.
Plantations in Munnar, Source: Pinterest
Must Visit Places in Munnar
- Eravikulam National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr.
- Atukkad Waterfalls: A beautiful waterfall with a trekking trail.
- Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary: A sanctuary for various species of flora and fauna.
- Kundala Dam: A scenic dam with a trekking trail.
- Chinnakanal Waterfalls: A scenic waterfall with a trekking trail.
- Anamudi Peak: The highest peak in South India, offering breathtaking views.
- Mattupetti Dam: A scenic dam with a trekking trail.
- Pothamedu View Point: A scenic viewpoint with a trekking trail.
- Devikulam: A scenic hill station with trekking trails and tea plantations.
- Marayoor Forest: A forest with trekking trails and scenic views.
How To Reach
Munnar, Source: Pinterest
By Air
Cochin International Airport: The closest airport to Munnar, located approximately 125 km away. You can hire a taxi or pre-book a cab from the airport to Munnar. The journey takes around 3-4 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions.
By Train
Ernakulam Railway Station: The nearest railway station to Munnar, located approximately 124 km away. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from the station to Munnar. The journey takes around 3-4 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions.
Aluva Railway Station: Closer to Munnar, located approximately 120 km away. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from the station to Munnar. The journey takes around 3-4 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions.
Madurai Railway Station: Located approximately 135 km away. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from the station to Munnar. The journey takes around 4-5 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions.
By Road
Kochi: The most popular route to Munnar is through Kochi. You can take the NH 85 route from Kochi to Munnar and enjoy the picturesque views of the Western Ghats. The journey takes around 4-5 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions.
State-run or private buses: Available from different towns in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. You can book your tickets at Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) website or get it from the counter of bus terminal located next to Aluva railway station.
2. Darjeeling, West Bengal
Darjeeling is a charming hill station in West Bengal, famous for its tea plantations and scenic views. Apart from the scenic views, one can enjoy the variety of food here, from piping hot momos and thupkas to local delicacies, Darjeeling is a wholesome package if you are looking to explore a quaint hill station and have 4-5 days in your hand
Darjeeling is famous all over the world for its tea
Must-Visit Places in Darjeeling
Tiger Hill: A scenic viewpoint with a trekking trail.
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and a scenic railway.
Himalayan Zoological Park: A zoo with a variety of Himalayan flora and fauna.
Rock Garden: A scenic garden with rock formations and trekking trails.
Darjeeling Mall: A shopping and dining area with local cuisine.
Kanchenjunga Mountain: The third highest mountain in the world, offering breathtaking views.
Mirik Lake: A scenic lake with a trekking trail.
Bhutia Busty Monastery: A historic monastery with scenic views.
Tenzing Rock: A scenic viewpoint with a trekking trail.
Darjeeling Tea Plantations: A scenic tea plantation with trekking trails and tea tasting.
How To Reach Darjeeling
View From Darjeeling Toy Train, Source: Pinterest
By Air:
The nearest airport to Darjeeling is Bagdogra Airport, located approximately 68 kilometers away.
Bagdogra Airport is well-connected to major cities in India, including Delhi, Kolkata, and Guwahati, with regular flights operated by domestic airlines.
From Bagdogra, travelers can hire taxis or book pre-paid taxis to reach Darjeeling which will take around 2-3 hours.
By Road:
Darjeeling has good road connectivity with cities like Gangtok (96 km) and Kalimpong (50 km).
Regular buses are available for Darjeeling from nearby towns like Siliguri, Gangtok, Kalimpong and Kurseong.
Buses for Darjeeling are also available from Kolkata, however they are quite time consuming so it is advisable to take your own vehicle if you are travelling by road.
The easiest way to reach Darjeeling is by road from Siliguri, which is well-connected to major cities by air, rail, and road.
By Train:
The railhead closest to Darjeeling is located at New Jalpaiguri (NJP).
NJP Railway Station is well-connected to major cities across India, including Kolkata, Delhi, and Mumbai, by regular train services.
From NJP Railway Station, travelers can hire taxis or board shared jeeps to reach Darjeeling, enjoying a scenic journey through the foothills of the Himalayas.
The most convenient way to reach Darjeeling is by flying to Bagdogra Airport and then taking a taxi to Darjeeling, which takes around 2-3 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train to New Jalpaiguri and then hire a taxi or shared jeep to reach Darjeeling.
3. Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir
Ladakh is a rugged and breathtakingly beautiful region in Jammu and Kashmir. The monsoon season brings a unique charm to its landscapes, making it an ideal destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
Nubra Valley, Ladakh, Source: Pinterest
Must-Visit Places in Ladakh
- Pangong Tso Lake: A scenic lake with a trekking trail.
- Thiksey Monastery: A historic monastery with scenic views.
- Khardung-la Pass: The highest motorable pass in the world, offering breathtaking views.
- Markha Valley: A scenic valley with trekking trails and scenic views.
- Nubra Valley: A scenic valley with trekking trails and scenic views.
- Hemis National Park: A national park with a variety of flora and fauna.
- Leh Palace: A historic palace with scenic views.
- Shanti Stupa: A historic stupa with scenic views.
- Magnetic Hill: A scenic viewpoint with a trekking trail.
- Kargil: A scenic town with trekking trails and scenic views.
How To Reach
Ladakh, Source: Pinterest
By Air
Flights from Delhi: There are daily flights from Delhi to Leh, with a flight duration of approximately 1.5 hours. The airlines operating these flights include Air India, GoFirst, Vistara, SpiceJet, and IndiGo.
Flights from Jammu: There are flights from Jammu to Leh, with a flight duration of approximately 1 hour. These flights are available three days a week.
Flights from Chandigarh: There are flights from Chandigarh to Leh, with a flight duration of approximately 1.5 hours. These flights are available once a week.
By Road
Manali-Leh Highway: This highway is approximately 473 km long and remains open for traffic from early June to November. The most impressive part of this road journey is the ascent up the 11,500 feet high Zoji-La pass.
Srinagar-Leh Highway: This highway is approximately 434 km long and remains open for traffic from April to November. The J & K State Road Transport Corporation (J&K SRTC) operates regular Deluxe and Ordinary bus services between Srinagar and Leh on this route with an overnight halt at Kargil
4. Coorg, Karnataka
Coorg is a picturesque hill station in Karnataka, known for its coffee plantations and lush green forests. It is a great place to visit during August, with the monsoon showers adding to its natural beauty.
Must Visit Places in Coorg
- Abbey Falls: A beautiful waterfall with a trekking trail.
- Nagarhole National Park: A national park with a variety of flora and fauna.
- Dubare Elephant Camp: A camp for elephant conservation and trekking trails.
- Irupu Falls: A scenic waterfall with a trekking trail.
- Talakaveri: A scenic viewpoint with a trekking trail.
- Brahmagiri Hill: A scenic hill with trekking trails and scenic views.
- Raja's Seat: A scenic viewpoint with a trekking trail.
- Omkareshwara Temple: A historic temple with scenic views.
- Madikeri Fort: A historic fort with scenic views.
- Coorg Coffee Plantations: A scenic coffee plantation with trekking trails and coffee tasting.
How To Reach Coorg
Abey Waterfalls, Coorg, Source: Pinterest
By Air
Flights to Mangalore: The airport closest to Coorg is Mangalore International Airport, located approximately 145 km away. You can book flights to Mangalore from various cities in India and abroad.
Flights to Bengaluru: Another option is to fly to Bengaluru International Airport, which is approximately 290 km away from Coorg. However, this option is less convenient due to the longer distance.
By Road
From Mangalore: From Mangalore, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Coorg. The journey takes around 3-4 hours depending on traffic conditions.
From Mysore: From Mysore, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Coorg. The journey takes around 2-3 hours depending on traffic conditions.
From other cities: You can also drive to Coorg from other cities like Hubli, Bengaluru, Ooty, and Coimbatore. The journey times vary depending on the distance and traffic conditions.
By Train
Mysore Railway Station: The nearest railway station to Coorg is Mysore Junction, located approximately 116 km away. You can take a train to Mysore and then hire a taxi or take a bus to Coorg.
By Bus
State-run buses: You can take state-run buses from Mangalore, Mysore, and other cities to Coorg. The journey times vary depending on the distance and traffic conditions.
Private buses: You can also take private buses from various cities to Coorg. The journey times vary depending on the distance and traffic conditions
5. Goa
Goa is a popular travel destination known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. Located in the southwestern region of India, Goa is the smallest state in the country and is known for its tropical climate and scenic landscapes. The state is a treasure trove of fun and thrilling activities for tourists and is amous for its stunning beaches, which are among the finest in India. Apart from its beaches, Goa is also known for its vibrant nightlife, which attracts both domestic and international tourists. The state is home to several electronic music festivals, which are held throughout the year. The state is also home to a number of casinos, which are a major attraction for tourists.
Goa, Source: Pinterest
Must-Visit Places:
- Basilica of Bom Jesus: A historic church with scenic views.
- Sé Catedral de Santa Catarina: A historic church with scenic views.
- Dudhsagar Falls: A scenic waterfall with a trekking trail.
- Fort Aguada: A historic fort with scenic views.
- Chapora Fort: A historic fort with scenic views.
- Carambolim Lake: A scenic lake with a trekking trail.
- Baga Beach: A scenic beach with water sports and dining options.
- Calangute Beach: A scenic beach with water sports and dining options.
- Palolem Beach: A scenic beach with water sports and dining options.
- Mangeshi Temple: A historic temple with scenic views.
How to Reach Goa?
Goa, Source: Pinterest
By Air
Flights from Mumbai: The fastest way to reach Goa is by flight from Mumbai, which takes approximately 1 hour. The cheapest way to reach Goa is by train, which takes around 9 hours.
Flights from other cities: You can also take flights from other cities like Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Chennai to reach Goa. The flight duration varies depending on the city of origin.
By Train
Train from Mumbai: The cheapest way to reach Goa is by train from Mumbai, which takes around 9 hours. The train journey is a good option for those who want to enjoy the scenic views of the Western Ghats.
Train from other cities: You can also take trains from other cities like Delhi, Bangalore, and Hyderabad to reach Goa. The train journey varies depending on the city of origin.
By Road
Bus from Mumbai: The bus journey from Mumbai to Goa takes around 10 hours. You can take buses from the Mumbai Central Bus Station or the Borivali Bus Station to reach Goa.
Bus from other cities: You can also take buses from other cities like Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Chennai to reach Goa. The bus journey varies depending on the city of origin.
By Sea
Cruise from Mumbai: You can take a cruise from Mumbai to Goa, which takes around 17 hours. The cruise offers luxurious facilities like a swimming pool, casinos, bars, and a spa
Church in Goa
6. Andaman and Nicobar Islands
If you are looking to visit a place that is as beautiful as Maldives, in fact even better, then the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the Bay of Bengal is the perfect place for you. The place is known for its beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and deep blue clear waters. August is a great time to visit these islands, with the monsoon showers bringing a unique charm to their landscapes. One can explore the historic side of the Island, the infamous Cellular Jail known as Kala Pani used to keep freedom fighters of our country. Famous freedom fighters like V.D. Savarkar and his brother were among the many who carried on with India's freedom movement from jail. Cellular Jail is a symbol of resilience and should be visited by anyone visiting the island, to hear the stories of how the freedom fighters fought for freedom despite the adversities they endured in the hands of the British.
Apart from Port Blair, One can also visit the other islands like Havelock, North Bay, Ross Island, Elephant Beach for some spectacular views. Scuba diving is a popular water adventure and the Andaman Islands are considered one of the best for Scuba Diving.
Must-Visit Places:
Cellular Jail: A historic prison with scenic views.
Ross Island: A scenic island with a trekking trail.
Havelock Island: A scenic island with trekking trails and scenic views.
Neil Island: A scenic island with trekking trails and scenic views.
Baratang Island: A scenic island with trekking trails and scenic views.
North Bay Island: A scenic island with trekking trails and scenic views.
Elephant Beach: A scenic beach with water sports and dining options.
Jolly Buoy Island: A scenic island with trekking trails and scenic views.
Mount Harriet: A scenic viewpoint with a trekking trail.
Chidiya Tapu: A scenic viewpoint with a trekking trail.
How To Reach
Cellular Jail, Source: Pinterest
To reach the Andaman Islands, there are two primary ways: by air and by sea. Here are the details:
By Air
Flights from India:
Direct flights are available from Kolkata, Bengaluru, and Chennai to Port Blair, taking approximately 2.5 hours.
Connecting flights are available from other major cities in India.
Flights from Delhi take around 5 hours, with layovers in Chennai or Kolkata.
Flights for Foreign Nationals:
Foreign nationals need to obtain a permit from the immigration authorities upon arrival.
Permits can also be obtained from Indian Missions Overseas, Foreigner's Registration Offices at Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Calcutta, and the immigration authorities at the airport.
By Sea
Ships from India:
Ships operate from Chennai, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam, taking around 3-4 days to reach Port Blair.
The journey is not recommended due to the long duration and limited amenities.
Additional Information
There are no trains or road connections available to reach the Andaman Islands.
For those planning to visit North Andaman, Havelock Island, or Neil Island, government ferries are available, but private ferries are recommended for a more comfortable experience
7. Lonavala, Maharashtra
Lonavala is a popular hill station in Maharashtra, known for its scenic views and beautiful lakes. It is a great place to visit during August, with the monsoon showers bringing a refreshing change to the weather.
Lonavala, Image Source: Pinterest
Must-Visit Places:
Lonavala Lake: For a relaxing boat ride.
Bhaja Caves: Ancient Buddhist caves with intricate carvings.
Karla Caves: Ancient Buddhist caves with intricate carings.
Lohagad Fort: A historic fort with scenic views.
Tiger's Leap: A scenic viewpoint with a trekking trail.
Rajmachi Fort: A historic fort with scenic views.
Khandala: A scenic town with trekking trails.
Bhushi Dam: A scenic dam with a trekking trail.
Lonavala Market: For shopping and local cuisine.
Khandala Waterfalls: A scenic waterfall with a trekking trail.
How To Reach Lonavala
Lonavala, Source: Pinterest
By Air
Nearest Airport: The nearest airport is Pune International Airport, which is approximately 68 kilometers away from Lonavala.
Flights: Since there are no direct flights to Lonavala, you can take a flight to Pune and then hire a taxi or board a bus to reach Lonavala.
By Train
Nearest Railway Station: Lonavala has its own railway station, which is well-connected to major cities in India.
Trains: Many trains stop at Lonavala, including the Mumbai-Pune Express and Mail trains. You can also take local trains from Pune and Mumbai to Lonavala.
By Road
Distance and Time: Lonavala is approximately 83 kilometers from Mumbai and 68 kilometers from Pune.
Route: The most popular routes to Lonavala are the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and the NH4
8. Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh
Khajuraho is a historic town in Madhya Pradesh, known for its ancient temples and intricate carvings. August is a great time to visit Khajuraho, with the monsoon showers bringing a refreshing change to the weather.
Khajurao
Must-Visit Places for Khajuraho
- Khajuraho Group of Monuments: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with historic temples
- Kandariya Mahadev Temple: A historic temple with scenic views.
- Chitragupta Temple: A historic temple with scenic views.
- Lakshmana Temple: A historic temple with scenic views.
- Vishwanath Temple: A historic temple with scenic views.
- Parvati Temple: A historic temple with scenic views.
- Chaturbhuja Temple: A historic temple with scenic views.
- Duladeo Temple: A historic temple with scenic views.
- Matangeshwara Temple: A historic temple with scenic views.
- Khajuraho Museum: A museum with exhibits on the history and culture of Khajuraho.
How to Reach Khajuraho
Khajurao Temple
By Air:
Khajuraho Airport (HJR): The town has its own airport, which is located about 5 km from the main city. It is well-connected with major cities like Delhi, Varanasi, and Mumbai. Several airlines operate regular flights to and from Khajuraho.
From Delhi: Approximately 1.5 hours
From Varanasi: Approximately 1 hour
By Train:
Khajuraho Railway Station: This station is about 5 km from the city center and has direct trains from major cities.
From Delhi:
Train: Bundelkhand Express, approximately 10-11 hours
From Varanasi:
Train: Udaipur City Express, approximately 8-9 hours
By Road:
Bus Services: Regular bus services are available from cities like Jhansi, Satna, and Chhatarpur. Both state-run and private buses operate on these routes.
From Jhansi: Approximately 175 km, around 4-5 hours by bus or taxi
From Satna: Approximately 120 km, around 3-4 hours by bus or taxi
Private Car/Taxi: You can hire a private car or taxi for a more comfortable journey. This option provides flexibility and convenience, especially if you are traveling in a group or with family.
9. Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Ooty is a popular hill station in Tamil Nadu, known for its scenic views and beautiful lakes. It is a great place to visit during August, with the monsoon showers adding to its natural beauty.
Ooty, Source: Pinterest
Must-Visit Places for Ooty
Ooty Lake: A scenic lake with a trekking trail.
Botanical Garden: A scenic garden with a variety of flora.
Rose Garden: A scenic garden with a variety of roses.
Ooty Mountain Railway: A scenic railway with scenic views.
Doddabetta Peak: A scenic viewpoint with a trekking trail.
Pykara Falls: A scenic waterfall with a trekking trail.
Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary: A sanctuary for various species of flora and fauna.
Kundah Valley Viewpoint: A scenic viewpoint with a trekking trail.
Ooty Market: A shopping and dining area with local cuisine
How to Reach Ooty
Ooty Plantation, Source: Pinterest
Here are the ways to reach Ooty:
By Air:
Coimbatore International Airport (CJB): The nearest airport to Ooty is in Coimbatore, approximately 88 km away. It is well-connected to major Indian cities like Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai, and Delhi, as well as some international destinations.
From Coimbatore: You can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Ooty, which takes about 3-4 hours.
By Train:
Mettupalayam Railway Station: The nearest major railway station is in Mettupalayam, about 40 km from Ooty. Mettupalayam is connected to Coimbatore and Chennai.
Nilgiri Mountain Railway: From Mettupalayam, you can take the famous Nilgiri Mountain Railway (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) to Ooty. The toy train journey offers scenic views and takes about 5 hours.
By Road:
Bus Services: There are regular bus services from nearby cities like Coimbatore, Mysore, and Bangalore to Ooty. Both state-run and private buses operate on these routes.
From Coimbatore: Approximately 3-4 hours
From Mysore: Approximately 4-5 hours
From Bangalore: Approximately 6-7 hours
Private Car/Taxi: Hiring a private car or taxi is another convenient option, providing flexibility and comfort, especially for group travel.
By Car:
From Coimbatore: The drive to Ooty takes around 3-4 hours via NH181.
From Bangalore: The distance is about 270 km, and the drive takes approximately 6-7 hours via Mysore.
10. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
Kodaikanal is a popular hill station in Tamil Nadu, known for its scenic views and beautiful lakes. It is a great place to visit during August, with the monsoon showers adding to its natural beauty.
Kodaikanal
Must-Visit Places for Kodaikanal
Bear Shola Falls: A scenic waterfall with a trekking trail.
Silver Cascade Falls: A scenic waterfall with a trekking trail.
Coaker's Walk: A scenic walkway with scenic views.
Green Valley View: A scenic viewpoint with a trekking trail.
Dolphin's Nose: A scenic viewpoint with a trekking trail.
Pillar Rocks: A scenic viewpoint with a trekking trail.
Kodaikanal Lake: A scenic lake with a trekking trail.
Bryant Park: A scenic park with a variety of flora.
Kundah Valley Viewpoint: A scenic viewpoint with a trekking trail.
Kodaikanal Market: A shopping and dining area with local cuisine.
How to Reach Kodaikanal
Kodaikanal
By Air:
Madurai Airport (IXM): The nearest airport to Kodaikanal is in Madurai, approximately 120 km away. It is well-connected to major Indian cities such as Chennai, Mumbai, and Delhi.
From Madurai: You can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kodaikanal, which takes about 3-4 hours.
Coimbatore International Airport (CJB): Another option is the Coimbatore airport, about 175 km away.
From Coimbatore: The journey to Kodaikanal takes about 5-6 hours by taxi or bus.
By Train:
Kodai Road Railway Station: The nearest railway station is Kodai Road, situated about 80 km from Kodaikanal. This station is connected to major cities like Madurai, Trichy, and Chennai.
From Kodai Road: You can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kodaikanal, which takes about 2-3 hours.
By Road:
Bus Services: Regular bus services are available from nearby cities like Madurai, Coimbatore, and Chennai to Kodaikanal. Both state-run and private buses operate on these routes.
From Madurai: Approximately 3-4 hours
From Coimbatore: Approximately 5-6 hours
From Chennai: Approximately 10-11 hours
Private Car/Taxi: Hiring a private car or taxi provides convenience and flexibility, especially for group travel.
By Car:
From Madurai: The drive to Kodaikanal takes around 3-4 hours via the SH156 and Kodai Ghat Road.
From Coimbatore: The distance is about 175 km, and the drive takes approximately 5-6 hours.
Tips for Travel:
Advance Booking: It is advisable to book flights, trains, or accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Weather Considerations: The best time to visit both Ooty and Kodaikanal is between October and June when the weather is pleasant.
Local Transport: Once in Ooty or Kodaikanal, you can use local taxis, auto-rickshaws, or even bicycles to explore the hill stations.
Also Read: Travel-Inspired Home Decor: Bring Your Adventures Indoors
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