Planning a monsoon getaway? Explore these 6 off-beat destinations in India

Are you someone who'd rather explore the natural beauty of India during monsoon rather than enjoy the rains from the comfort of your home? Well, unfortunately, you aren't the only one! Although there are many beautiful locations across the country, people tend to travel to a few select ones leading them to get over-crowded, while so many other locations that truly come alive during the rainy season remain unexplored.

So why not go to some place unique to explore the outdoors? Here are 6 off-beat locations in India where you can travel to make the most out of your vacation.

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Off-beat travel locations in India for your next monsoon getaway

1) Kolad, Maharashtra

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In the charming Maharashtrian village of Kolad, let your adventurous side run wild. A popular destination for those looking to raft down the Kundalika river or indulge in other exciting monsoon adventures. Here you can experience a ton of thrilling outdoor pursuits among the lush green forests and misted scenery, such as kayaking, rappelling waterfalls, and camping.

Places to visit: Bhira Dam, Avchitgad Fort, Kolad Museum, Sukeli Waterfalls, Sutarwadi Lake and Dholwal Dam.

2) Orchha, Madhya Pradesh

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Just across the Betwa river in the Niwari district of Madhya Pradesh sits the charming town of Orchha. This town is well renowned for its breathtaking scenery and distinctive Bundela architecture. The surrounding area takes on a vivid green hue during the monsoon, transforming Orccha into a verdant oasis making the rainy season the perfect time to explore the town's abundant natural beauty.

Places to visit: Orchha Bird Sanctuary, Rafting and boating in River Betwa, Raja Mahal, Laxmi Narayan Temple, Chaturbhuj Temple, Jahangir Mahal

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3) Chail, Himachal Pradesh

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Now a charming hill station, Chail was formerly the capital of the kingdom of Patiala. Situated around 55 km away, it provides peace and quiet away from the bustle of Shimla. The monsoon season in Chail is especially alluring since it brings you even closer to nature and is relatively less crowded than other retreats in the state. With the mountains all around you as your backdrop, you can unwind and rejuvenate for days while taking in the clouds.  

Places to visit: Chail Wildlife Sanctuary, Chail Gurudwara Sahib, Sidh Baba ka Mandir, The Chail Bazaar and Chail Cricket Ground.

4) Binsar, Uttarakhand

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Situated atop the Jhandi Dhar hills in Kumaon, Binsar is the perfect place for you to get away and unwind in this rainy season. Home to one of the region's least explored wildlife sanctuaries, the rainy season is the ideal time to travel here as it brings low-lying clouds that glide through the valley, shrouding the pine-laden trails in mist and fog. It nearly feels as though you are walking among clouds in this idyllic location for trekking through the region's forested mountain ranges.

Places to visit: Binsar Zero Point, Bineshwar Mahadev Temple, Mary Budden Estate, Binsar Sanctuary Museum and Pariyadeva Pashan.

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5) Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pardesh

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Discover peace and quiet in the quaint town of Ziro, tucked away among Arunachal Pradesh's enchanting mountains. Get lost in Ziro's calm and serene ambience as you explore the town's lush rice fields and authentic Apatani tribal culture. If possible, schedule your trip during the renowned Ziro Music Festival and enjoy indie music performances as you experience nature at its absolute best.

Places to visit: Kile Pakho, Talley Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, Tarin Fish Farm, Hapoli and Orchid Research Centre

6) Mawlynnong, Meghalaya

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Situated approximately 100 km from Shillong, the state capital, in the East Khasi Hills of Meghalaya, Mawlynnong is best known for being voted the cleanest village in Asia and its root bridges. This quaint village will be a breath of fresh air away from most of India's dirty cities with its grass-lined pathways and tidy walkways. The rainy season acts as a cherry on top, further enhancing the little village's beauty. Featuring gardens in almost all thatched hut residences, this community is among the most picturesque in the nation.  

Places to visit: Dawki/Umngot River, Balancing Rock, Mawlynnong Waterfall, Jingmaham Living Root Bridge and Brun Khongmen View Point

This monsoon season, give places like Goa and Lonavala which are chock-full of tourists a miss and embark on a journey to discover these hidden gems of India that are bursting with vibrant natural beauty.

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