Travel: Picture-perfect monsoon destinations in India

Where should you be heading off to this monsoon? Hotels.com sent us this list.

Monsoons can be a pleasant relief from the sweltering heat and blazing sun and whilst, some like to tuck inside their homes during this wet season, others prefer to step into the rain and explore their creative side – behind a camera.

Picturesque landscapes and gorgeous greenery during the rains have always fascinated photographers. India has numerous inspiring locations where one can capture picture perfect frames. Hotels.com, has compiled a list of destinations in India for you to experience the beauty of monsoons.

Goa

Monsoon season is from June to September

Goa is known for its splendid natural beauty, beaches, heritage, ancient architecture and churches.

Locations like the Mollem National Park, Cotiago Wildlife Sanctuary, the famous DudhSagar falls and the gorgeous spice plantations in Savoi are spectacular in the rains.

Udaipur, Rajasthan

Monsoon season is from July to September

Known as the Venice of the East, Udaipur city is a perfect balance between royalty and romance.

A fascinating blend of culture, architecture and finesse, the city offers you a wide range of stills to freeze in your camera. Monsoon Palace known as SajjanGarh Palace, Fatehprakash Palace & Lake Palace give a glimpse of its architectural richness.

Udaipur, also known as the city of lakes has three interconnected lakes - the FatehSagar Lake, Lake Pichhola and the smaller SwaroopSagar Lake which are a must visit during monsoons.

Valley of Flowers, Uttarakhand

Monsoons season is from June to September

The Valley of Flowers in the northern state of Uttarakhandis known as 'Nature's Gift to Man'.

The valley is in full bloom during the monsoon season offering an enriching and enchanting experience.

Declared as a 'World Heritage Site' by UNESCO, it houses over 300 species of flowers. Vast stretches of colorful flower beds result in some of the most enchanting views in the world.

Click here for more photographs of Uttarakhand's Valley of Flowers!

Coorg, Karnataka

Monsoon season is from June to November

Nestled in the Western Ghats, Coorg is a perfect monsoon holiday spot which is famous for its beautiful coffee plantations.

Commonly referred as the Scotland of India, it has mesmerizing mountain views, waterfalls and the Cauvery River flowing through.

One must visit Talakaveri, Abbey Fallsand Iruppu Falls which come alive during the rains to capture some of the most beautiful sights. Another must visit is Tadiyendamol, which is the tallest peak in Kodagu and gives a breathtaking view of the whole of Coorg.

Click here for to read a Coorg travelogue!

Pondicherry

Monsoon season is from July end to September

A tourist haven for decades, Pondicherry embraces many beautiful colonial buildings, churches, temples, and statues. It introduces travelers to popular tourist beaches like The Promenade Beach, Paradise Beach, The Auroville Beach and Serenity Beach.

Monsoon is the best time to capture splendid views of the sea, colonial architecture due to the romantic and pleasant weather. Some of the not-to-miss places here are Villianur and Pondicherry beach.

Kerala

Monsoon season is from June to September

Kerala, known as 'God's Own Country' is blessed with Backwaters, Lagoons, palms, rich culture and heritage.

The Backwaters such as KavvayiKayal, Anjengo and moreare a must visit to click some panoramic and scenic shots.

Other beautiful destinations in Kerala include Munnar, Kumarakom, Fort Cochin, Wayanad and Varkala, all of which exude their own unique charm during the monsoons.