There is a common perception that one must not travel during the monsoon season. Agreed. We all know that the slippery roads and landslides do make some of these locations inaccessible. So, what do mountain lovers do in these times? Well not all hill stations become inaccessible during this season. Instead, there are places where the rains bring out the best in them. Knowing this fact, here’s a list of hill stations in India, where you can travel in this monsoon.

Yelagiri

Yelagiri formally known as Vellore Yelagiri is a hill station in Vellore district of Tamil Nadu. It stands majestically amidst four mountains at an altitude of over 900 metres above sea level surrounded by orchards, rose-gardens, and green valleys. Mostly inhabited by tribals, the destination exhibits their unique customs and habits. A haven for trekkers, Yelagiri is also a refuge for lovers of adventure sports such as paragliding and rock climbing.

Horsley Hills

It is a series of hills in Andhra Pradesh in Madanapalle taluka of Chittoor district. Horsely Hills is one of the least explored hill stations near Bengaluru. Named after the British Collector, WD Horsley, who built his home there in pre-Independence India, this tiny hill station is an oasis in greenery in an otherwise dry and barren area.

Amboli Hills

Amboli which lies in the Sahayadri hills of Maharashtra, at an altitude of 690m is the last hill station before the coastal highlands. Declared as one of the world’s “Eco Hot-Spots” it abounds in unusual flora and fauna. A haven among the clouds, one must visit the Amboli waterfalls and experience the panoramic view of the valley from Shirgaonkar point. If you are in Amboli then the Kavleshet point is a must visit where you can witness reverse waterfall as water is dragged upwards due to the force of wind beneath the valley.

Ananthagiri Hills

Most Hyderabadis know the place very well as it’s a favourite amongst trekking enthusiasts and nature lovers. While you’re there, check out the Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple if you enjoy being around heritage buildings, or trek to the nearby Nagasamudram Lake, which offers stunning views during monsoon.

Chikaldhara

Chikaldhara is the only hill station in Maharashtra abundant with wildlife like panthers, sloth bears, sambar, wild boar, and wild dogs. Situated at an altitude of above 1000m, it is the only coffee growing area in Maharashtra. Apart from copious wildlife, Chikhaldara has deep valleys, breath-taking waterfalls and a placid lake which makes this hill station an excellent getaway in the rainy season.

Agumbe

Often called the Cherrapunji of south India, Agumbe in Karnataka is best known for its biodiversity and scenic beauty. Agumbe is considered as one of the best monsoon trekking destinations. The trekkers love this place for its verdant charms and the spectacular view that they can get of the Arabian sea from one of the highest points of the trail. Known to be home to many rare medical plants, it boasts rich biodiversity. If you would like to know more about this place, you could visit some of the heritage spots, ruins of ancient temples dating back to Hoysala Empire. Besides all this, Agumbe also triggers nostalgia for many, as it once served as a setting for the famous television series which was an adaptation of the book Malgudi days.

Wayanad

Wayanad in Kerela is undoubtedly one of the most picture-perfect monsoon destinations in India. The slopes of Wayanad are carpeted with lush greenery and it is a soothing sight for city dwellers. While it is famous for its luscious tea gardens, trekking up to the Chembra Peak can promise you with stunning panoramic views of the place. And if you would like to go to a beach too, you can drive to Kozhikode, which is just 76 km away.

Pahalgam

Set in heart of Anantnag district of the picturesque Jammu and Kashmir, Pahalgam is a popular hill station located at a height of 7200ft. Situated at the confluence of streams flowing from Sheshnag lake and the Lidder river, one can get stunning views you can get. Much famed for its postcard like vistas, Pahalgam is indeed one of the most beautiful places to visit during this season.

Kausani

Often described as ‘The Switzerland of India, Kausani is a quaint village, nestled under dark green hills of Uttarakhand. It is a popular destination for back packers and a dreamland for writers. Kausani offers a striking panoramic view of the majestic Himalayan range peaks such as Trishul, Nanda devi and the mighty Panchachuli peaks. Other attractions near Kausani are Rudradhari waterfall, Sumitranandan Pant Gallery and Anashakti Ashram.

Shillong

Snuggled among the clouds, Shillong in Meghalaya is listed top among the best places to visit in India during monsoon. Known for its captivating beauty, the hill town looks even more beautiful during the monsoon. If you like to walk in the clouds and feel the mist on your face, a trip to this place is a must. Other places of interest are the Elephant Falls and the Spread-Eagle Falls. Both waterfalls fed by rains make for a remarkable sight. The calmness and the beauty of the town relaxes your senses and the delectable local cuisine sets the pace for a pleasant holiday.