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Weather in India in July

If you are planning a trip to this subcontinent in July, you need to understand the weather in India in July. Known as the wettest month in India, the rain is in full swing in most parts of the country. Read on to find out more about the weather in different regions of India in this month.

India weather in July

The Indian climate is intense and ever-changing and offers you all kinds of climate, from snow to heavy rain, from dry heat to humidity, and from blistering cold to unbearably hot temperatures.

By the end of June, monsoon season covers most of the country with a thick and wet blanket of clouds. The weather in India in July is wet. The rain starts in full swing during this month. It is followed by warmer weather in absence of rainfall.

From Kerala in the South to the Himalayas in the North, and from the Arabian Sea in the west to the Bay of Bengal in the east, it rains throughout the country, although the intensity of the rain greatly varies in every region, as does the average temperature. Compared to the previous months, the temperatures in July are comparatively cooler, and you can enjoy a great India trip.

Besides the negative effects of the monsoon season – floods, landslides and an outdated infrastructure to cope with this, certain regions of India are breathtakingly beautiful at this time of the year. The vast stretches of lush green landscapes in the South and the beautiful weather in the state of Rajasthan, make for the best regions to visit during this time of the year. It is also a great time for trekking and nature enthusiasts.

Here’s a guide to help you plan the ideal trip despite the weather conditions in India during the monsoon season.

Wondering when is the best time to visit India, you can read this! Here is a detailed overview on what the weather conditions would be like each month in India, in different regions of the country. Feel free to explore.

January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December

July is the wettest month in India.

Best places to visit in India in July

At India Someday, we would recommend visiting the far north amidst the mountains, the Western Ghats, and some parts of Tamil Nadu.

If you want to escape the heat and the heat all together and enjoy stunning landscapes, then the mountains are where you should go. Ladakh might be the best destination to visit in India in July. In the midst of the mountain ranges of the Himalayas, it offers breathtaking views and great opportunities for hikes. Ladakh is also called the cold desert for a reason as the precipitation is very low up there. In July, the temperatures are at their maximum but the average highs rarely exceed 30°C. It is also the prime tourist season for this part of India so be prepared as it won’t be as tourist-free as the rest of India! Check out our blogs on travelling to Leh and Ladakh, and some potential travel routes that we’ve drafted for you!

You can also explore Rajasthan and towns like Varanasi and Khajuraho. If you still want to experience the gorgeous monsoon season in all its glory, you can visit Goa and Kerala. While you explore this region, stay at some exquisite boutique hotels at much cheaper rates and enjoy South India devoid of tourists.

We’d also recommend exploring the Western Ghats. The region is covered with national parks, wildlife sanctuaries and some charming hill stations. You’ll find a variety of rare species of flora and fauna in the hills with endless fruit, tea and coffee plantations. In July, the temperatures are cool and the air is a lot cleaner. Other regions which you could definitely explore during the monsoons in India are Wayanad, Munnar and Thekkady. Further, the Dudhsagar Waterfall Hike in Goa is an excellent experience this time of year. Ooty in Tamil Nadu is very popular among domestic tourists, to flee the constantly changing climatic conditions of the cities in the monsoon season.

Experience Luxury: Hotels in India

Dudhsagar Waterfall

North India in July

The far north regions of India such as Leh, Ladakh, Lahaul, and Spiti are excellent destinations for a trip in July. These regions are not as affected by the rains, but the weather is pleasant and precipitation is low. The average temperatures range from 11 to 25 degrees Celsius, making it perfect for outdoor activities like trekking, hiking, and sightseeing.

However, the regions along the Himalayan foothills, including Shimla, Manali, and Dharamshala, can experience heavy rains in this month. Landslides are also a common occurrence, which is why this region is not recommended for a trip in July.

By the end of June and beginning of July, the monsoon season hits Rajasthan and other Central and Northern regions with moderate downpours. All the popular cities of the North like Jaipur, Agra, Delhi, Varanasi, Rishikesh and Amritsar experience a respite from the sweltering summer heat in the months between July and August.

This month brings mixed weather in the Golden Triangle and Rajasthan regions. There is a good amount of rainfall in the Golden Triangle regions of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. The climate is cloudy on most days, which means the temperature is cooler and humidity is higher at this time. However, Rajasthan receives a low amount of rainfall even in July, making it a good destination for the wet month.

The drop in temperature makes it easy to go sightseeing the various forts, palaces, and temples, but the sporadic rains and heat spells can be exhausting if you spend a lot of time outdoors.

The Karsha Gustor Festival is a celebration of the Karsha Monastery in Zanskar, Ladakh. The festival includes masked dance performances by monks to celebrate the victory of good over evil.

The festival of Guru Purnima often takes place in mid-July in Rishikesh. The festival, honoring spiritual teachers and mentors, is marked by prayers, discussions, and fasting.

The Delhi Tourism Mango Festival in July showcases more than 500 varieties of mangoes. The festival is attended by farmers and mango producers all around India and there are many mango products for sale as well!

Dive Deeper: Discovering North India’s Top Attractions

Our two week travel routes for North India can get you started with travel ideas. Most of these are fine in the month of July.

Places to visit in India in July
North India in the month of July – Photo Credit Faisal Fraz.

South India in July

In India, weather in July in South India is different on the east coast and the west coast. Compared to June, Kerala experiences lesser rainfall in July; however, the rainfall is more frequent and lasts for a longer time. It is a great time to visit the national parks in the region or go for some monsoon treks. However, if you want a dry holiday with sunshine, July is not the best time to visit Kerala.

In Goa, rain is in full swing and most restaurants, shacks, and beach activities are closed from June to September. However, you can get great discounts on luxury resorts and accommodations. Enjoy a luxurious staycation indoors with spa treatments or ayurvedic massages. If you love nature, Goa and Kerala offer lush green landscapes and breathtaking views.

Tamil Nadu, on the other hand experiences a lot less rainfall in July, ideal to explore this cultural region. The only flip side is the heat spells due to the lack of rainfall. Tamil Nadu doesn’t experience heavy rainfall until October, so July is a good time to explore some beautiful regions in this state such as Chennai and Pondicherry.

The festival of Njangattiri Aanayoottu takes place in Kerala in July. This festival celebrates elephants by lining them up in a row in the Njangattiri Bhagavathi Temple and feeding them fruits and other foods. You may also have a chance to see a snake boat race in the town of Champakulam in July.

The Nishagandhi Monsoon Music Festival is organized by Kerala tourism in July, where people can enjoy traditional music and dance performances.

When to Go: Best Time for a Kerala Getaway

Wondering when is the best time to visit India, you can read this! Here is a detailed overview on what the weather conditions would be like each month in India, in different regions of the country. Feel free to explore.

January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December

why visit India in July
Munnar, Kerala

East India and Northeast India in July

The east stream of the monsoon winds hit the Northeast of India by the beginning of June. The eastern Himalayan region of Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, and Meghalaya experience heavy downpours in this month. In fact, Meghalaya sees the highest rainfall in the world during June and July. We would suggest planning a trip to the northeast after October.

Even east India experiences heavy rains during July in regions like Kolkata and foothills of the Himalayas. However, the temperatures can go high in regions like Odisha.

The Behdienkhlam Festival is celebrated in July by the Phar tribe in Meghalaya. After the process of sowing in agriculture is completed, this festival is celebrated to eradicate negativity.

The Drupka Teshi Festival is a Tibetan festival celebrated in Northeast India. You can experience a yak race during this festival in Deer Park.

The Puri Rath Yatra takes place in Orissa in July at Jagannath Temple in Puri.

Puri Rath Yatra

West India and Central India in July

July in Western India and Central India is extremely wet. The regions of Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur, and the west coast see the worst of monsoon season in this month. July is the peak monsoon month, with heavy downpours, cloudbursts, flooding, and landslides in many parts of the region. There is also a hindrance in the daily commute with traffic jams, potholes, and flooded streets.

The average temperature is much cooler in July, but there is little scope for sightseeing. The weather department and government often issue warnings during this month to stay indoors, which is probably not the best way to spend a vacation.

Monsoons in india
Monsoons in Mumbai have an impact so magical and irresistible. A cup of tea, Vada Pav and the waves crashing against the shore while people simply stand and stare in awe.

Islands in July

Both the south-west islands like Minicoy in Laccadive, and south-east islands like Port Blair in Andaman and Nicobar, experience high, frequent rains in July. With the high tidal waves, heavy rains, and strong winds, the islands of India are not recommended in July.

Tips for visiting India in July

  • While packing for a trip to India in July, keep in mind that this is the wettest month in most states, so be prepared for rain and humidity. Pack light and breathable clothes. Keep some clothes extra in case you get wet, since clothes will not dry quickly. Also keep a waterproof jacket or raincoat and an umbrella with you. Wear comfortable sandals which won’t slip or get ruined on the wet roads.
  • No matter which season you are visiting India in, carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat or a cap for sun-protection.
  • Monsoon season means a higher risk of getting sick. Keep an emergency medical kit handy with important medicines that you might need.
  • If you do visit India in July, keep your schedule flexible, since random rain showers can disrupt your plans.
Why visit India in July
Beautiful Dudhsagar Waterfalls, Goa (Photo Credit – Bishnu Sarangi)

Was this blog helpful to find out the India weather in July? For more detailed information on the best places to visit in India in July, or for any help to plan your ideal holiday to India, simply get in touch with us or hit that Plan Your Trip button.

Best time to visit Kerala

With rolling hills, tea plantations, mesmerizing landscapes, beautiful beaches and backwaters, finding the best time to visit Kerala in South India can be a task. While the best time to visit Kerala depends on your preference, winters and monsoons are ideal according to us.

November to March is the best time to visit Kerala. It is the winter season and peak tourist season, since the climate is extremely pleasant. Kerala in monsoon season has its own charm, as the entire state is filled with lush greenery.

Even the Kerala summer season is bearable with its green hills, cooler climate and hill stations.

Known as God’s own country, Kerala is a year round destination for budget travellers, luxurious vacationers, couples, families, and solo travellers alike.

This guide tells you the best time to visit Kerala so that you get the most out of the beaches, backwaters, major attractions, festivals, and nature.

 Get in touch with us to find out more, including the famous ayurvedic treatments, or to start making the perfect tour plans for your next trip!

Weather in Kerala:

If you are planning to visit Kerala, you need to know the climate and weather in Kerala throughout the year. Kerala experiences four seasons – winter, summer, south-west monsoon, and north-east monsoon.

Kerala is a tropical state, which means that the weather in Kerala is typically humid all year round. You can expect heavy rains during the summer monsoon season from June to August.

During summer season, Kerala can experience storms and cyclones, so Kerala summers are not the best time to visit Kerala.

The best time to visit Kerala is between November and March, with clear blue skies and minimal rainfall. The pleasant weather continues throughout the season.

However, Kerala doesn’t get extremely hot in summer like most other parts of India, even though it is close to the equator. That is because the Western Ghats, India’s high mountain ranges along the western coast, prevent the warm winds from reaching there. So the average temperature is consistently below 35 degrees celsius on most days.

Kerala’s hill stations like Munnar and Thekkady are cooler than coastal cities of Kochi and Trivandrum, with a comfortable climate throughout the year.

weather in kerala
Munnar, and hill stations like it, are painted with a broad stroke of luscious green, especially in the Monsoon (Photo Credit – Sreehari Devadas_unsplash)

Winter season in Kerala

Winter is considered to be the best season to visit Kerala. The end of November till late February constitutes winter season in Kerala. Temperature remains pleasant during this time, rarely rising above 30 degrees celsius. The mountainous regions of Wayanad, Munnar, and Thekkady can get quite cold, so be sure to pack some warmer clothes.

The peak season for tourism in Kerala begins from November, and rightfully so – it is the best time to visit Kerala.

The pleasant weather makes it the best season to enjoy local sightseeing in Kerala. Winters are perfect to visit as many destinations and tourist attractions as you can fit in your itinerary.

You can visit the famous tea plantations in Kerala, go for beach visits and enjoy beach activities and water sports, explore the backwaters of Kerala with boat excursions and houseboat cruises, or trek to the waterfalls during this season. Thanks to the cooler weather, the backwaters will experience less humidity and feel more pleasant.

For wildlife enthusiasts, winter is a great time to visit the national parks and wildlife sanctuaries of Kerala, or even go on some wildlife safaris.

Popular tourist destinations will be crowded during this season, but it is worth it. The climate is cool and you can soak the natural beauty of this state to the fullest. 

best time to visit kerala
The best time to visit Kerala is also the best time to see the gorgeous tea plantations (Photo Credit – Girish Gopi)

Summer in Kerala

Kerala commences its summer season towards the end of February. The weather in Kerala in summer can vary from warm temperatures to scorching heat depending on the diverse range of region.

But while most regions in India tend to get intensely hot in summers, Kerala’s climate differs because of its geography.

The state is close to the equator, but the climate is not as hot as you would expect. That’s because the Western Ghats block the hot winds and the Arabian Sea offers a constant flow of cool breeze along the coast, keeping the heat in control.

Temperatures range from 32 degrees celsius to 36 degrees celsius. However, there is too much humidity in the air, so Kerala remains hot and physical activities can get exhausting.

The hill stations of Kerala are perfect to beat the summer heat. The slightly cooler weather at the picturesque Munnar, Thekkady, and Vagamon are great for trekking, hiking, and biking. 

There are many local festivals that happen in summer in Kerala. If you want to immerse yourself in the culture of Kerala, summers are a good time to do so.

The summer season doesn’t see a lot of tourists in Kerala, so if you are on a tight budget, it is the perfect time to visit: you get lesser crowds and reduced prices.

The backwaters of Kerala are in season throughout the year, but during the summer months of April and May, the water levels are too low to explore as much of the river and lake landscapes. Adding the humidity in the mix, it can be challenging to visit backwaters for a long time.

Pack light clothing, sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses while travelling to Kerala during the humid summer season. Make sure you keep yourself hydrated and eat small, frequent meals throughout the day.

summer in kerala
There’s something about Kerala’s empty beaches that can be very appealing(Photo Credit – weareaway)

Monsoon in Kerala

The unique thing about Kerala is that this state experiences two monsoon seasons: The Southwest monsoon season from June to August, and the Northeast monsoon season from October to November. August constitutes monsoon season in Kerala, and rains are at their peak in this month.

The Western Ghats get hit first by the clouds in Kerala, making precipitation and humidity extremely high.

Ideally, the rainy season is not the best time to visit Kerala thanks to the constant rains, but since monsoon travels have started becoming popular, Kerala is one of the topmost destinations for a monsoon vacation.

Kerala’s monsoon season offers beautiful scenery. The lush green landscapes of Kerala become even more vibrant during monsoons – a sight to behold, as long as you can withstand the heavy rainfall. Monsoon seasons in Kerala, with their refreshing showers, can give its winter seasons a run for their money.

An added bonus? Monsoon is considered to be an off season for travel in Kerala, so you get great discounts on your hotel rates, tickets, and transportation. With lesser crowds, you can also explore the stunning landscape of Kerala without the rush.

Kerala is a popular destination for wellness centres, Ayurvedic therapies, and the Kerala massage. The best time to undergo these Ayurvedic massages is during the monsoons. The cool, moist, and dust-free weather help the Ayurveda therapies work more effectively by opening up our skin pores. The post-treatment period for the Ayurvedic treatments also needs your body to cool down, which is helped by the cool monsoon weather.

The Northeast monsoon season can cause heavy downpours with thunder and lightning. The climate can get as hot as the summer season. So make sure to check the Kerala weather forecast while planning your travels.

Heavy rains might hamper tour plans.  Prepare to be flexible, as the landslides and flooding may cause blockages and delays in terms of transport. If this happens, we highly recommend some chai and hot local snacks along with indulging in ayurveda therapies.

Make sure you pack raincoats, umbrellas, and appropriate shoes if you plan to visit Kerala during monsoons. Carry plastic bags to keep your gadgets safe from the rainwater. On nature treks you’ll encounter some blood-sucking leeches but not to worry, locals know how to prevent and handle those situations.

The beaches are empty from May till September. The current is too strong for swimming, and the wind and weather don’t allow you to sunbathe either. Many places close down for the season.

Festivals in Kerala:

Due to its history of colonization and trade, Kerala is home to many religions – Hinduism, Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. As a result, there are many religious festivals, spiritual and cultural festivals that are celebrated in this state. Experience Kerala’s ancient traditions as you see the people of Kerala celebrating elephant festivals, dancing to folk dances, praying to Gods, and keeping their heritage intact.

Here are some famous festivals that you should not miss if you are travelling to India during this time.

 

festivals in kerala, weather in Kerala
These magnificent elephants are a part of some festival celebrations in Kerala (Photo Credit – Brian Holsclaw)

Onam:

A traditional harvest festival, the Onam festival is a 10-day celebration that happens in September. It is the biggest festival for locals in Kerala. Everybody decorates houses, prepares feasts, and plays games. The best part is the Onam Pulikkali Tiger Play, where people dress up as tigers. There are also snake boat races across multiple cities in the state.

Thrissur Pooram:

The Thrissur Pooram Festival is celebrated in April or May in Thrissur. The highlight of this festival is a procession of 101 decorated elephants, with five musical instruments and incredible fireworks.

Pongala:

Pongala is a 10-day festival attended by thousands of female devotees at Attukal Bhagavathy temple near Trivandrum. Men are not allowed near the temple. On this day, the goddess is offered Pongala, a sweet porridge, prepared in a clay pot on open fire.

Vishu:

Celebrated in April or May, Vishu festival is the astronomical New Year celebrated by Hindus in Kerala. They believe that the first object you see on this day influences the fortunes of the subsequent year.

Kochi-Muziris Biennale:

If religious festivals aren’t your thing, the Kochi-Muziris Biennale is a contemporary art festival that takes place every winter from December to March in Kochi. You will find art exhibitions of different mediums in galleries and open spaces all over the city.

festivals in kerala
Men and women participate in the festivities in Kerala (Photo Credit – Bobinson K B)

A year round destination, the natural beauty of Kerala will ensure that you have a memorable holiday that keeps you wanting more. From the hill stations of Kerala to beach getaways, tea and spice plantations to floating on a houseboat in the enchanting lagoons of the Kerala backwaters, there is magic to be unravelled. Whether you are seeking adventure or wanting to explore Kerala luxuriously, we will plan the perfect Kerala holidays for you. So, if you are interested in travelling to Kerala on your own customized itinerary, plan your trip with us now.

 

Also Read: Best Time to Visit India: Expert Suggestions

Goa in the Monsoons

Due to its fame as a beach destination, most travellers think Goa in the monsoons is a wasted trip. However, this is a misconception. Goa during this time of year is very different from the peak seasons. Hence, going in with the right expectations is your best bet.

Monsoons in India

off-season months in goa

Off-season months in Goa are usually the months between May and September. May is likely to be very uncomfortable and unbearably hot for travellers. The monsoons usually hit Goa in the first half of June, which cools it down and turns the countryside to a lush shade of green.

Stunning beaches of Goa, Goa in Monsson
Chill by the stunning blue sea (Photo Credit – Sarang Pande Unsplash)

what can I not do in Goa in the monsoon season?

With Goa in the monsoons, it can sometimes rain all day, and the power can go off in some hotels and houses. We recommend staying in a modern accommodation – it is the perfect season to spend some money on some luxury. However, if you are travelling on your own and are looking to meet other travellers, then Goa has plenty of hostels. Despite there being fewer parties, this guarantees you are unlikely to be alone and you’ll find exciting things to do nonetheless.

Beaches at this time of year are a no-go; waters will be choppy and not safe for swimming. Likewise, there are unlikely to be any water sports on offer.

best beaches to visit in Goa in the monsoon

We recommend choosing a beach in North Goa. Baga-Calangute is a good bet – they’re walking or a short-ride distance from shacks and restaurants that will still be open, as this beach tends to be open all season. For quieter travellers, staying around Anjuna or Vagator is a better choice. Although, most restaurants and shops will be shut. We suggest avoiding the very North of Goa, as there will be very little activity there. The beaches in South Goa during this time are likely to be pretty empty, but the resorts of North Goa are ideal. We can help you sort the confusion – just click Plan Your Trip.

Vagator Beach (Photo Credit – Dinesh Kumar)

nightlife in goa in the monsoon

The nightlife in Goa during monsoons is likely to be minimal. Most of the major clubs are closed during the off-season. We could still try finding party hotspots for you but give no guarantee of availability.

For more information about travelling to India in the monsoon season, visit our blog. Please feel free to contact us – we can help you plan the perfect Goa trip no matter what time of year.

Find Out More: The Best Time to Explore India

Enjoy some relaxing time by the beach and take in the stunning view during sunset

Travel Tips During the Monsoons in Mumbai

India is primarily a country of three major seasons. The summer (March – June), monsoons (June – September) and winter (October -February). Depending on what part of the country you are travelling to or are in, the weather will be one of these ranging from mild to extreme. Generally, the monsoons in Mumbai arrive by the second week of June, providing instant relief from the heat and humidity caused by the preceding summers in Mumbai.

Travel Tips During the Monsoons in Mumbai
Kids out on their bikes, enjoying the weather, on Marine Drive which overlooks the Arabian Sea

The monsoons in Mumbai

Beginning from the southern coast, the monsoons reach Mumbai in the first ten to fifteen days of June. Mumbai and monsoons are a winning combination. The city looks a lot more beautiful. You can see kids in the city switch from their beloved cricket to football or playing in the rain. Often you can see adults at Marine Drive or Juhu Beach enjoying the rain.

The monsoons also have a very tricky drawback here, because in Mumbai it doesn’t rain it pours. Moreover, the roads in the city are not all that great, so at times it can be dangerous. Caution is advised. Poor infrastructure and planning may lead to a lot of problems with travelling. Trains and buses run late. The famous Mumbai traffic is also at its best. Travelling is always met with a certain delay. Having said that, monsoons are also the time when you would want to be in the country. And if you already are, we suggest you visit Mumbai.

Mumbai is a city made up of seven small islands, surrounded by the sea which is one of the most vital parts of Mumbai’s identity. It’s the only constant in a city where everything keeps changing with time. The sea is a big part of what makes the city of dreams stand tall, and the rain adds so much to its beauty. Here are a few things you could do to enjoy the season to the max.

Travel Tips During the Monsoons in Mumbai
Aerial view of Mumbai

Things to do in Mumbai during the monsoons

Marine Drive

Marine Drive is a landmark of Mumbai. People from all walks of life, regardless of the distance make it a point to visit Marine Drive. It’s on top of our suggestions too. Take a stroll down the promenade when it’s drizzling, with the sea providing a cool breeze as raindrops patter at your feet. It’s a very refreshing experience and highly rated by the locals so as to get the best feel of the monsoon season in Mumbai.

Getting here: Take a train to Churchgate station, the southernmost stop on the Western Railway line. As soon as you walk out of the station, look for the sea and start walking towards it and if you don’t know just ask someone or use Google Maps, it’s hardly a 5-minute walk away.

Visit a Cafe or Restaurant that overlooks the sea

Like the sea but don’t like getting wet? Visit an eatery that overlooks the sea. There are lots of cafes and restaurants that even on the dry days have a brilliant view of the sea, the monsoons in Mumbai just magnify it.

The Bayview Cafe in Colaba is one such place, perfect for a beer at sunset. It has an unmatched view of the sea, a lot similar to the view from the Taj for a fraction of the price. Places like Pizza by the Bay near Marine Drive are also exemplary for lunch or dinner while enjoying the rain on the water and the playful winds.

AER Lounge in Worli is another spot you must visit. An upscale restaurant with a panoramic view that is just unbeatable, with the Arabian Sea on one side, and on the other you can view the cityscape in all its glory during the monsoons.

Must Read: Top Tips for UK Travelers Headed to India

Travel Tips During the Monsoons in Mumbai
Marine drive, all set to welcome the rains

Getaways around Mumbai

There are a few places, just a couple of hours away from Mumbai, which are a must-visit during the monsoons, away from the madness of the city. The Monsoons magnify the beauty of these places and the lush greenery is at its best.

Bhandardara

A holiday resort village on the western ghat, it is located in the Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra. Just 185 kms away from Mumbai, it’s a place you must visit in the monsoons. The highest peak in Maharashtra Mount Kalsubai is also located here and the village is the base to many high mountains. It also has a beautiful waterfall and a placid lake ringed by forests. Bhandardara has everything a nature lover needs, and it only gets better during the monsoons.

Getting here: A drive from Mumbai to Bhandardara is quite quick. The route is full of ghats and can be tricky to navigate during the monsoons. So, if you plan to drive to Bhandardara we advise doing so with caution. The closest railway station to Bhandardara is Igatpuri railway station, from there you can take either a state transport or a private bus up to Bhandardara which is approximately 45 kms away. Something to note is that on the way back to Mumbai, the trains from Igatpuri railway station are almost always late. So you might want to find some suitable alternative if need be.

Travel Tips During the Monsoons in Mumbai
If you think Bhandardara is beautiful, wait for the monsoons! It only gets better (Picture Credit: Tusk Travel)

Matheran

Matheran is the smallest hill station in Maharashtra and is located at an elevation of 800 meters above sea level. With a name that means ‘Forest on the Forehead of Mountains’, it is an eco-sensitive region, and also Asia’s only automobile-free region.  What makes Matheran so popular is the close proximity to the big cities. It’s just 90 kms away from Mumbai, so getting there isn’t too time-consuming.

Matheran is full of viewpoints and parks, with a whopping number of 28 points to visit. It also has a couple of lakes and 2 parks. The Neral-Matheran toy train is a lovely journey up to Matheran. It’s a beautiful ride up the hills with only a few stops far and between. The Toy Train, as its name would hint, is small, and the compartments are a bit old, but it’s worthwhile. A few other places like Louisiana Point, Panoramic Point, Sunset Point, Porcupine Point, and Charlotte Lake are places we recommend you visit when in Matheran.

Getting here Matheran is easy to drive to from Mumbai city. Neral is the closest railway station. Trains from Pune and CST(Mumbai) ply daily to Neral and from there you can take a toy train to the Old Matheran station, soaking in the beauty of the journey towards Matheran. By road, you can take the Mumbai-Pune Highway (NH4) or the Mumbai-Pune expressway.

Karnala Bird Sanctuary

The Karnala Bird Sanctuary is located near Mumbai, in the Panvel taluka of Raigad district. A popular hangout for bird watchers and hikers as it is within the reach of Mumbai and based near the legendary Karnala Fort in Mumbai.

137 different species of birds reside in the Karnala Bird Sanctuary and as many as 37 different species of birds migrate here at different seasons. If you are a bird lover, a hike in the monsoons here is a must.

Getting here The Karnala Bird Sanctuary is a 60 kms drive from Mumbai. You can take a train from CST station (southernmost from the Central line) to Panvel. It’s 12 kms from there with a lot of buses, taxis, and rickshaws to take you to Karnala. State transport buses run from Bombay Central to Karnala, but they aren’t recommended. A taxi from Mumbai to Karnala is also a good option.

Lonavala

The most popular monsoon getaway for the locals of Mumbai and Pune, the drive here on the Mumbai-Pune expressway is amazing. Lonavala has a beautiful landscape, a lot of waterfalls and bright colours all around. The Tiger Point in Lonavala is the Grand Canyon of Maharashtra, the view of the mountain range during the monsoons is unmatched. Try catching the sunset or the sunrise from here.

Getting here We suggest driving to Lonavala on the Mumbai-Pune expressway. You can take the train from CST station to Khopoli (the last station on the central line) and it’s 15 kms from there (you can also take a bus or taxi from there).

Travel Tips During the Monsoons in Mumbai
The journey to these beautiful places from Mumbai are extremely scenic

Travelling to India during the monsoons

Monsoons can be a great time to visit India, as it’s usually off-season. Tourist attractions aren’t too crowded, the airfare is also cheaper and you can get a good discount on hotels as they aren’t as heavily occupied as they would be during the rest of the year. All things said, monsoons in Mumbai are worth witnessing.

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