Table of Contents
Road trips during the monsoon season in India offer a peaceful and mesmerising experience, as the rain transforms the landscape into a lush, vibrant paradise. Regions like the Western Ghats, with their winding roads and rolling hills, become even more captivating, making them a must-experience destination at least once in a lifetime.
Even the busiest routes, such as Mumbai to Goa or Pune to Lonavala, are made more enchanting by the rain, with cascading waterfalls adding to the stunning views. With all these romantic adventures, let’s discover the best monsoon road trips in India, the must-visit places, and what to expect on these scenic journeys!
Insights On Road Trips During Monsoon In India
Road trips during the monsoon season in India can be challenging, requiring careful planning due to potential risks like waterlogging, landslides, and slippery roads. The unpredictable nature of the southwest monsoon can make conditions dangerous, so a well-thought-out plan is crucial to fully enjoy your trip.
It’s important to keep your vehicle in top condition and pack essential items such as safety gear, an emergency kit, food, and a reliable GPS. An offline map is particularly useful when travelling to Northeastern states like Meghalaya, where lush greenery may hinder network signals.
Despite these obstacles, monsoon road trips in India are incredibly rewarding. The rain breathes new life into the landscape, offering a unique opportunity to explore the true beauty of India.
Here are some of the top road trips to embark on during the monsoon season in India:
1. Mumbai To Goa
The Mumbai to Goa road trip, spanning over 600 km via Pune and Kolhapur, is one of the most scenic monsoon journeys in India. This route takes you through the breathtaking Western Ghats, offering lush green landscapes, rolling hills, and the magnificent Dudhsagar Waterfalls. Starting early in the morning from Mumbai is ideal, allowing you to enjoy breakfast at one of the city’s top restaurants before heading towards Lonavala and Satara. Along the way, you’ll pass charming hill stations and unwind in Goa, where you can relax on its beautiful beaches, indulge in water sports, and explore its historic forts.
2. Chennai To Munnar
With its picturesque routes and rolling hills, the Chennai to Munnar road trip is a must-do for monsoon season travel in India. It’s best to start early from Chennai to avoid traffic. Along the way, make a stop at the Rock Fort Temple in Dindigul before heading to Munnar, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes.
While in Munnar, take a scenic drive through Eravikulam National Park, visit Mattupetty Dam, and enjoy the views at Echo Point. Be sure to explore the stunning Attukad and Lakkam Waterfalls, and don’t miss the chance to trek to Anamudi Peak.
3. Shillong To Cherrapunji
This is one of India’s shortest yet most stunning road trips during the monsoon. Throughout the journey, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the northeastern hills, with the living root bridges of the Mawlynnong region as a major highlight. Drive through the mist-covered Khasi and Jaintia hills, which create a tranquil atmosphere during the monsoon. Make sure to visit the Seven Sisters Falls and Nohkalikai Falls for an even more memorable experience. If a road trip isn’t feasible, consider exploring various Meghalaya tour packages to enjoy the beauty of the monsoon season with friends, family, and loved ones.
4. Manali To Ladakh
The Manali to Ladakh road trip, spanning approximately 500 km, is one of India’s most sought-after monsoon journeys. You’ll pass through stunning destinations like Jispa and Sarchu, enjoying views of towering mountains and breathtaking landscapes. The roads are filled with steep twists and turns, making it an adventurous trip that demands driving skill. Key attractions include the famous passes like Rohtang La and Tanglang La, which enhance the thrill of the journey.
While it’s usually recommended to avoid Ladakh road trips during the monsoon due to the risk of landslides, the region’s beauty is amplified when the rains arrive, making it an even more captivating experience.
5. Bangalore To Coorg
Coorg is one of the best weekend getaways from Bangalore. The journey, spanning over 200 km, offers refreshing winds, lush landscapes, and towering mountains, making it one of India’s top monsoon road trips. Starting from the scenic countryside of Bangalore, you’ll pass through Karnataka’s natural beauty, eventually reaching Coorg, where mist-covered hills and sprawling coffee and tea plantations await. Enjoy the drive alongside cascading waterfalls and indulge in the local cuisine at serene, nature-filled spots along the way.
6. Guwahati To Tawang
The road trip from Guwahati to Tawang via Tezpur and Bomdila is one of India’s top monsoon road trips, spanning approximately 520 km. Along the way, you’ll discover Buddhist monasteries nestled in peaceful, lush landscapes. The winding rivers further enhance the natural beauty of the route. This journey is perfect for those seeking to immerse themselves in breathtaking natural surroundings while gaining cultural insights.
Best Monsoon Road Trips In India By Car
Here are the top monsoon road trips in India by car:
1. Ahmedabad To Kutch
One of India’s top monsoon road trips by car is the journey from Ahmedabad to Kutch. As you drive, you’ll pass through picturesque landscapes and charming villages that highlight the rich Gujarati culture. Early in the journey, you’ll be captivated by the stunning white desert, which looks even more enchanting during the monsoon season. Take time to enjoy birdwatching in Kutch and experience a scenic drive along the desert roads throughout your adventure.
2. Pune To Lonavala
Embark on the delightful journey from Pune to Lonavala, covering 65 km through the scenic Sahyadri range. This route offers rolling hills and vibrant greenery. Start by exploring Pune’s top attractions, then drive through the Western Ghats. During the monsoon season, the route transforms with cascading waterfalls, making it one of India’s best monsoon road trips.
3. Visakhapatnam To Araku Valley
The car journey from Visakhapatnam to Araku Valley spans around 114 kilometres, passing through stunning landscapes. Along the way, you’ll be surrounded by lush greenery and get glimpses of strawberry and coffee plantations. Be sure to explore the Burra Caves, famous for their impressive size. During the monsoon season, this humid region transforms into a lush paradise, with mist-covered hills, making it one of India’s best budget-friendly road trips.
4. Delhi To Rishikesh
The Delhi to Rishikesh road trip is one of India’s top monsoon journeys, ideal for exploring spiritual sanctuaries. This scenic drive spans about 250 km, offering breathtaking views of the Ganges River, the Himalayan ranges, and serene landscapes, all transforming into a lush paradise during the monsoon season.
5. Chennai to Yercaud
The journey from Chennai to Yercaud is surrounded by lush coffee plantations and picturesque hillsides. As you travel, you’ll be greeted by the rich aroma of coffee and stunning viewpoints. Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the backwaters and lakeside, immersing yourself in the natural beauty. This makes it one of India’s best monsoon road trips by car.
6. Mumbai To Malshej Ghat
The journey from Mumbai to Malshej Ghat, covering around 120 km, is a feast for the senses, filled with natural wonders. Starting from Mumbai’s Marine Drive, you’ll pass through lush green valleys, cascading waterfalls, and charming hill stations tucked within mountain passes. Every aspect of this trip makes it one of India’s finest monsoon road journeys. With stunning views of the Sahyadri range, birdwatchers and photography enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities to capture unforgettable moments along the way.
7. Bangalore To Agumbe
The Bangalore to Agumbe road trip is one of India’s top monsoon journeys for a weekend escape. Spanning 360 km, it offers lush green landscapes and stunning views. Located in the heart of the Western Ghats, this route takes you through dense rainforests, picturesque waterfalls, and a rich variety of wildlife, making it a truly unforgettable adventure.
8. Kolkata to Sundarbans
The Kolkata to Sundarbans road trip, spanning approximately 100 km, takes you through captivating landscapes and diverse wildlife habitats. Along the way, you may encounter rare wild animals such as elephants, tigers, deer, bison, and the iconic Royal Bengal tigers, making it one of India’s top monsoon road trips filled with excitement and adventure. Begin your journey by exploring the vibrant shopping scene in Kolkata, then head towards the safari landscapes as you make your way to the Sundarbans.
Conclusion
Exploring India during the monsoon through road trips offers a unique way to experience the country’s diverse landscapes and vibrant cultures. From the lush greenery of the Western Ghats to the majestic valleys of Himachal Pradesh, each destination shines with its charm during the rainy season. Whether you’re cruising the winding roads of Goa’s coastal highways or enjoying a tranquil ride through the tea gardens of Munnar, the monsoon transforms these routes into stunning scenic masterpieces.
These road trips not only highlight India’s natural beauty but also offer a chance to explore local cuisine, traditions, and warm hospitality along the way. While the weather may bring occasional challenges, the joy of witnessing waterfalls in full flow and mist-covered hillsides easily makes up for any inconvenience. As you travel through these rain-soaked landscapes, each curve and ascent reveals a new side of India’s monsoon magic, making every journey unforgettable.
Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply looking to break away from the usual routine, India’s monsoon road trips promise an exhilarating adventure filled with memories that will last a lifetime. So pack your bags, hit the road, and immerse yourself in the splendour of India’s monsoon season—a journey where every turn brings a discovery and every mile offers an experience to treasure.
