Top Monsoon Hill Stations in India for a Budget-Friendly Getaway in 2025
After a long, sweaty summer, the arrival of the first monsoon winds brings a breath of fresh relief. The earthy scent of rain-soaked soil, the chill in the breeze, and the unmistakable joy that only the monsoon season can offer. When the monsoon clouds roll in and when the rhythmic patter of raindrops begins, India’s hill stations transform into magical landscapes of mist, waterfalls, and greenery. While the hill stations in India offer safer and equally enchanting monsoon experiences. The hill stations in India offer safer and equally enchanting monsoon experiences. These Hill stations in India offer cloud-wrapped peaks, gushing waterfalls, and rejuvenated forests. These destinations showcase nature at its most vibrant and dramatic.
In this Blog
Kodaikanal: Must-Visit Waterfalls During the Rainy Season
Situated in the Palani Hills of Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal during the monsoons transforms into a misty wonderland with fog-draped hills, a glimmering lake, and forests dripping with raindrops. The “Princess of Hill Stations” is especially magical when clouds descend onto the town, creating a surreal, otherworldly atmosphere. When it’s raining, seek shelter at Kodai Lake’s covered boat houses or watch the mist dance across the water. Once the rain subsides, explore some of the best places to visit in Kodaikanal during the rainy season for a family getaway. Among the top attractions are Fairy Falls and Silver Cascade — must-visit waterfalls in Kodaikanal during the rainy season that transform into roaring spectacles.
How to reach: The nearest airport to Kodaikanal is Madurai (120 km), while Kodai Road Railway Station is about 80 km away. Check road conditions before travelling, as some ghat roads may have restrictions during heavy rainfall.
Monsoon Delicacies: Hot chocolate at Pastry Corner, steaming corn cobs from lakeside vendors, and warm vegetable soup at Tibetan Brothers.
Rainy Day Activities:
- Explore the Kodaikanal Solar Observatory Museum
- Visit the Shembaganur Museum of Natural History
- Enjoy indoor games at the Carlton’s recreation center
Ideal for: Honeymoon, photographers, mist-lovers
Best monsoon months: July to September
2. Munnar, Kerala
Munnar’s tea estates during monsoon are a sight one should see once in their life—emerald, green slopes shrouded in floating clouds with raindrops clinging to tea leaves. The Western Ghats transform into a water-rich paradise with streams forming everywhere and waterfalls thundering down valleys. During the peak monsoon season, Eravikulam National Park often closes for safety reasons. However, one can visit the Mattupetty Dam, as it swells impressively, and the Tea Museum makes for a perfect rainy-day hideout, especially for couples wanting a romantic getaway. The drive through fog-wrapped tea estates with raindrops dancing on leaves makes every journey memorable and makes it one of the top places to visit in Munnar as a hill station for a quick monsoon holiday.
Getting There: Cochin International Airport is 110 km away, though travel time can extend during the monsoon. Check for road closures before setting out.
Monsoon Delicacies: Hot Kerala-style banana fritters, spiced tea from local stalls, and warming mutton stew with appam.
Photography Tip: The mist rising from tea gardens after rain creates magical shots. Early morning (6-8 AM) offers the best light conditions when clouds part briefly.
Monsoon Safety: Carry rainproof covers for electronics, wear shoes with good grip, and check weather forecasts daily as heavy rain can sometimes cause temporary road closures.
Ideal for: Nature lovers, photographers, tea enthusiasts
Best monsoon months: June to September
Coorg (Kodagu), Karnataka
Coorg during the monsoons is intoxicating, with the aroma of wet earth mixed with coffee blossoms filling the air, while the landscape turns impossibly green. The rain breathes life into countless streams and waterfalls, making it the perfect season for waterfall chasers to visit in South India.
Abbey Falls transforms from a gentle waterfall to a thundering torrent, and the misty views from Raja’s Seat are incomparable. While outdoor activities like trekking might be limited, plantation walks under a drizzle offer a unique experience and are a must-visit with your friends and family.
Getting There: Mangalore Airport (135 km) is the nearest, but expect slower travel times during monsoon as roads might be slippery.
Where to Stay: Homestays in Coorg in the forest
Monsoon Delicacies: Steaming hot Akki Rotti, Coorg’s famous pork curry, and Chilli Bajji (fritters) paired with hot coffee make perfect rainy-day comfort food.
Monsoon Activities:
- White water rafting in the Barapole River (only when water levels are deemed safe)
- Plantation walks under umbrellas between showers
- Bird watching (monsoon brings many migratory birds)
Ideal for: Coffee lovers, waterfall enthusiasts, relaxation seekers
Best monsoon months: June to September
Chikmagalur, Karnataka
Chikmagalur during the monsoon is the perfect weather one should experience in their lifetime, with coffee plantations shining under rainfall and waterfalls coming alive throughout the region. The Mullayanagiri range disappears under a blanket of clouds, creating a mystical landscape that seems to float above the world. Chikmagalur during the monsoon is the perfect weather one should visit and experience in their lifetime, with coffee plantations shining under rainfall and waterfalls coming alive throughout the region. The Mullayanagiri range disappears under a blanket of clouds, creating a mystical landscape that seems to float above the world. While trekking to peaks like Mullayanagiri might be restricted during heavy rainfall, waterfalls like Hebbe and Jhari reach their spectacular best. The misty estate drives through coffee plantations are worth braving the occasional downpour.
How to Reach: Mangalore Airport (150 km) is the nearest. Roads may be slippery during monsoon, so drive cautiously or hire experienced local drivers.
Monsoon Delicacies: Aromatic filter coffee, Neer Dosa with spicy chutney, and Bisi Bele Bath are local favourites that warm you up on rainy days.
5 must do rainy activties in Chikamagular
- Visit Hebbe & Jhari Falls – Waterfalls in their full monsoon glory.
- Coffee Plantation Tour – Rain-washed estates and fresh brews.
- Bhadra Wildlife Safari – Spot wildlife in lush green forests.
- Scenic Drive through Charmadi Ghat – Foggy roads and dreamy landscapes.
- Trek to Mullayanagiri – Misty trails and panoramic views.
Monsoon Packing Tips: Waterproof pouch for electronics, quick-dry clothing, anti-fungal powder, and leak-proof footwear.
Ideal for: Coffee enthusiasts, waterfall lovers, peaceful retreat seekers
Best monsoon months: June to September
Araku Valley, Andhra Pradesh
Araku Valley during monsoon is a revelation—the Eastern Ghats transform into a paradise with tribe-tended coffee plantations glistening under rainfall. The famous train journey becomes even more scenic with freshly formed waterfalls, which are visible from the train windows, making it the best places to visit in Araku Valley with your friends.
The Borra Caves, with their limestone formations, look especially dramatic with water flowing through, while the valley itself turns into a carpet of green. The tribal communities celebrate the arrival of rains with special rituals and dances.
Getting There: Visakhapatnam Airport is 115 km away. The train journey from Vizag to Araku is spectacular during monsoon but check for weather alerts before travelling.
Monsoon Delicacies: Bamboo chicken cooked over wood fires, ragi porridge, and hot spiced Araku coffee warm you up during rainy evenings.
Cultural Insight: Monsoon is culturally significant for the local tribes, who perform the “Dhimsa” dance to celebrate the arrival of rains. The agricultural season begins with special rituals honoring the rain gods.
Monsoon Activities:
- Visit the Padmapuram Botanical Gardens, which are especially lush after rainfall
- Tribal museum tour (perfect indoor activity)
- Coffee plantation visits between rain showers
Ideal for: Cultural enthusiasts, off-beat travelers, train journey lovers
Best monsoon months: July to September
Cherrapunji, Meghalaya
Visiting one of the wettest places on Earth during monsoon may sound extreme, but Cherrapunji during the rainy season is when it truly lives up to its reputation. The rainfall creates hundreds of temporary waterfalls, which can turn the landscape impossibly green and fill the living root bridges with new vitality.
While trekking to the Double-Decker Root Bridge might be challenging during heavy rain, the sight of Nohkalikai Falls at full volume is worth the journey alone. Emerging as one of the top hill stations to visit during the monsoon, the Seven Sisters Falls transform from gentle streams to seven parallel thundering waterfalls—a sight few get to witness.
Getting There: Guwahati Airport (150 km) is the nearest. Roads may experience temporary closures during extremely heavy rainfall, so check weather forecasts regularly.
Monsoon Delicacies: Jadoh (red rice with pork), warm Khasi thali, and Sha Shiahkrot (ginger tea) perfect for rainy evenings.
- Explore Mawsmai Caves – Discover misty limestone caves.
- Scenic Drive Through Misty Valleys – Enjoy the fog-covered roads and waterfalls.
- Savour Local Khasi Cuisine – Warm up with local delicacies like Jadoh.
- Trek to the Living Root Bridges – Explore nature’s unique bridges.
- Visit Nohkalikai Falls – Witness the majestic waterfall in full force.
Essential Gear: Heavy-duty rain poncho, waterproof backpack cover, gumboots, and quick-dry towels.
Ideal for: Extreme weather enthusiasts, waterfall chasers, photography buffs
Best monsoon months: June to September (peak rainfall), October (post-monsoon beauty)
Ponmudi, Kerala
Ponmudi’s golden peaks turn emerald during monsoon, where the clouds play hide and seek among the hills. The 22 hairpin bends leading up to this hill station become an adventure in themselves, with temporary waterfalls forming alongside the road after heavy rainfall.
The Meenmutty Waterfalls come to life during the monsoon, the Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary teems with activity, and the Kallar River rises dramatically. The golden mist that gives Ponmudi its name (“Golden Peak”) is especially atmospheric during rainy mornings, making it one of the top hill stations to visit during the monsoon.
Getting There: Just 55 km from Thiruvananthapuram International Airport. The road has 22 hairpin bends that require careful driving during monsoon.
Monsoon Delicacies: Hot Pathiri (rice flour pancakes), Puttu with kadala curry, and ginger tea keep you warm during rainy evenings.
Wildlife Spotting: Monsoon brings out reptiles, amphibians, and leeches. Keep a safe distance from wildlife and carry salt packets for leech protection.
Ideal for: Waterfall enthusiasts, wildlife spotters, peaceful retreat seekers
Best monsoon months: June to August
Yercaud, Tamil Nadu
Yercaud during the monsoon remains relatively less crowded while offering a refreshing green landscape. The Emerald Lake fills to the brim, the Botanical Garden bursts with seasonal blooms, and the entire hill station has a washed, rejuvenated feel.
The Kiliyur Falls, which are nearly dry during summer, transform into a spectacular cascade. The viewpoints might often be cloud-covered, but when the clouds part briefly, the views of rain-soaked valleys are unforgettable.
Getting There: Salem Airport (38 km) and Salem Junction Railway Station (36 km) make it easily accessible even during monsoon.
Monsoon Delicacies: Steaming hot rasam, sweet corn soup from lakeside vendors, and coffee with local orange zest.
Rainy Day Activities:
- Visit the Silk Farm and Honey Farm (indoor activities)
- Explore the Orchidarium which blooms spectacularly after rainfall
- Lake boat rides during breaks in the rain
Ideal for: Budget travelers, weekend getaway seekers, families
Best monsoon months: July to September
Horsley Hills, Andhra Pradesh
Horsley Hills receives a moderate rainfall during monsoon, transforming this small hill station into a green haven with mist-covered viewpoints and refreshed eucalyptus forests. The Environmental Park turns into lush green, the small lakes fill up, and the relatively low altitude means you can enjoy the monsoon without the extreme cold.
The Gali Bandalu (windy rock) lives up to its name during monsoon, with clouds rushing past at incredible speeds. The moderate rainfall makes it suitable for those who want a taste of monsoon without the inconveniences of heavy downpours.
Getting There: Bangalore International Airport (144 km) or Tirupati Airport (116 km). Roads remain mostly accessible throughout the monsoon.
Monsoon Delicacies: Hot bajji (fritters), Ragi sangati with locally sourced honey, and warming rasam.
Monsoon Activities:
- Indoor rock climbing at the adventure center
- Lake View Point offers dramatic cloud formations
- Governor’s Bungalow visits during rain breaks
Photography Tip: Misty mornings between 6-8 AM offer atmospheric shots of the eucalyptus trees with light filtering through.
Ideal for: Families, weekend travellers, those new to monsoon travel
Best monsoon months: July to September
Agumbe, Karnataka
Agumbe during monsoon is a captivating rainforest experience—one of the wettest regions in South India, it receives heavy rainfall that transforms the entire ecosystem. The Barkana and Onake Abbi Falls reach their thundering peak, the rainforest bursts with life, and the famous sunsets (when visible between rain clouds) are dramatically colourful.
Known as the “Cherrapunji of the South,” Agumbe’s rainfall creates a paradise for reptiles, amphibians, and countless insects. The famous King Cobras are more active during this season (though best viewed from a safe distance with trained guides).
Getting There: Mangalore Airport (90 km) is the closest. Roads may have temporary closures during extremely heavy rainfall.
Monsoon Delicacies: Hot ganji (rice porridge), jackfruit idli, and cardamom-infused black tea.
Wildlife Watching: The rainforest comes alive with frogs, snakes, and insects. The Agumbe Rainforest Research Station offers guided monsoon walks (advance booking essential).
Monsoon Precautions: Carry leech socks, rain poncho (umbrellas are impractical due to wind), waterproof camera case, and first-aid kit.
Ideal for: Rainforest enthusiasts, wildlife photographers, extreme weather lovers
Best monsoon months: June to September (peak rainfall)
11. Aizawl, Mizoram
Aizawl, situated in the hills of Northeast India, comes alive during the monsoon with emerald green landscapes, cloudy hilltops, and a slow, poetic charm. The capital city turns misty and magical as the rains sweep over the ridges, making for a peaceful and culturally rich getaway. Watch clouds float into your balcony, sip tea as church bells echo through the hills, and wander through quiet local markets in the rain.
How to reach: Lengpui Airport (32 km from Aizawl) connects the city to Guwahati, Imphal, and Kolkata. Road access is available via Silchar, though landslides can cause delays—check ahead.
Monsoon Delicacies: Bamboo shoot curry, rice beer (zu), smoked pork with mustard greens
Rainy Day Activities:
- Visit the Mizoram State Museum to explore tribal history
- Attend a local church service (many are indoors with beautiful choirs)
- Enjoy reading or journaling with views from your stay
Ideal for: Cultural explorers, solo travelers, peace-seekers
Best monsoon months: June to September
Kausani, Uttarakhand
Kausani is draped in a green glow during the monsoon, with layers of mist rolling over tea gardens and Himalayan peaks briefly peeking through the clouds. Rain transforms this sleepy hill town into a serene hideaway, perfect for curling up with poetry or soaking in silence punctuated by birdsong and rainfall.
How to reach: The nearest railway station is Kathgodam (135 km), and Pantnagar Airport is around 170 km away. Roads are scenic but winding—drive cautiously in the rain.
Monsoon Delicacies: Hot pakoras with chai, Kumaoni raita, and aloo ke gutke
Rainy Day Activities:
- Visit Anasakti Ashram and meditate to the sound of falling rain
- Browse the Sumitranandan Pant Museum
- Take short misty walks through pine-lined paths
Ideal for: Writers, couples, solitude-lovers
Best monsoon months: July to early September
Ranikhet, Uttarakhand
Ranikhet takes on a fresh glow in the rains, with dense pine forests steaming with mist and valleys covered in dew-drenched greenery. The town’s colonial charm is only enhanced by the rhythmic downpour on tin roofs and fog drifting across winding trails. It’s a nostalgic and cosy retreat, and one of the top hill stations to visit in monsoon.
How to reach: Kathgodam Railway Station is around 75 km away, and Pantnagar Airport is approximately 110 km away. Ghat roads are generally stable but be alert for landslide warnings.
Monsoon Delicacies: Garhwali thali, hot momos, and piping soups from local cafes
Rainy Day Activities:
- Visit the Kumaon Regimental Centre Museum
- Sit with a book at Chaubatia gardens under tree canopies
- Indoor games and tea at heritage hotels
Ideal for: Families, slow travelers, nostalgia-seekers
Best monsoon months: July to September
Budget-friendly villas and Homestays in India after exploring the Hill stations
Kurunji Amaze Kodai
This Homestay in Kodaikanal is the perfect stay for those travelling with family and larger groups. After exploring Kodaikanal, unwind at this beautiful homestay. Enjoy the hills and the bonfire, for a perfect getaway for the monsoon seasons.
The Estate Villa
Situated in the heart of Coorg, this homestay is perfect to unwind your worries, with indoor games. This homestay in Coorg also comes with a pool, where one can enjoy even during the monsoon, perfect for a couple-friendly hill station getaway.
Cicada
This homestay in Chikamagular is perfect for smaller groups and couples wanting a romantic getaway. Much like other top monsoon hill stations in South India, this homestay is surrounded by greenery, perfect for those looking for homestays surrounded by mist and forest.
Vale Echoes
What if we tell you there is a homestay where you are surrounded by forest and hills? Sounds good to be true? Vale Echoes in Munnar, a top monsoon hill stations, is an answered prayer for an introvert, perfect for those wanting secluded areas for a detox away from the chaos of busy life.
Plesance Villa
After some explorations, this is the perfect place to unwind and relax. Set in Ranikhet—one of the top hill stations to visit during the monsoon, this vlla has the perfect views to vanish all your worries away. Looking for a budget-friendly stay in Ranikhet, Plesance Villa is the perfect weekend monsoon getaway.
Monsoon Packing Essentials
- Rainwear: High-quality rain jacket or poncho (umbrellas are often impractical due to wind)
- Footwear: Waterproof trekking shoes or gumboots with good grip
- Protection: Waterproof covers for backpacks, plastic pouches for electronics
- Health Items: Anti-fungal powder, mosquito repellent, basic medications
- Clothing: Quick-dry fabrics, extra pairs of socks, light woolens for higher altitudes
- Miscellaneous: Waterproof torch, salt packets (for leech protection), plastic bags for wet clothes
Monsoon Travel Tips for Visiting Hill Stations in India
- Flexible Itinerary: Keep plans adaptable as weather can change rapidly
- Check Road Status: Before setting out each day, confirm if all roads are open
- Early Starts: Begin day activities early as rainfall often increases in the afternoon
- Safety First: Avoid streams, rivers, and waterfalls during heavy rainfall
- Weather Alerts: Keep track of weather forecasts and warnings
- Indoor Alternatives: Have a list of indoor activities for heavy rainfall days
- Footwear Management: Keep a separate bag for muddy shoes and a drying system
Image credits: Piyush Kumar via wikimedia commons
Written by: Elita Almeida
