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When after the scorching heat, dark clouds start gathering in the sky and a sweet fragrance starts rising from the soil, then the heart yearns to go somewhere far away. The arrival of monsoon in India is not just a change of season, but a celebration of nature and when it comes to experiencing the monsoon to its fullest, there can be no other option more beautiful than South India. If you too are planning to take a break from this hectic everyday life and relax in the lap of nature, then we are taking you to those 8 selected places in South India, where your soul will be refreshed as soon as you step during monsoon.

1. Wayanad

Wayanad, located in the north-eastern part of Kerala, looks like a scene from a fairy tale during the monsoon. The specialty of this hill station situated on the mountains of the Western Ghats is its dense forests, spice plantations and caves covered with greenery. During monsoon, the gushing flow of Banasur Sagar Dam and Meenmutti Waterfall is worth seeing. It is a magical feeling for trekking enthusiasts to visit ‘Chembra Peak’, where a naturally formed heart-shaped lake is present in the middle of the mountains. Seeing this lake amidst the mist becomes an experience of a lifetime.

2. Coorg

Coorg (Kodagu) of Karnataka is known for the aroma of its coffee, but its beauty doubles during monsoon. Continuous rains give a new life to the hills here. Waterfalls like Abbey Falls and Iritty Falls are in full bloom during this season. Waking up early in the morning and walking among the coffee plantations and feeling the white blanket of mist touching my fingers. Wandering through the valleys of Coorg during monsoon, you will understand why it is called the ‘Scotland of India’.

3.Munnar

Munnar of Kerala is the first choice of tourists from all over the world. Situated at the confluence of three rivers – Muthirpuzha, Nallathanni and Kundali, this hill station gets completely transformed during monsoon. When rain drops fall on green tea leaves, the whole scene shines. View of Anamudi Peak (highest peak in South India) amidst cloud cover. Munnar’s calm lakes and foggy roads are perfect for long drives during monsoon.

4. Ooty

Ooty (Udhagamandalam), situated in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu, may be an evergreen tourist spot, but its mood is completely different during monsoon. In this season, the crowd of tourists is slightly less, due to which you get full opportunity to observe nature closely. The ride on Nilgiri Mountain Railway (toy train) becomes even more exciting in monsoon, when the train passes through clouds and waterfalls. Boating in Ooty Lake amid light drizzle and seeing a panoramic view of the entire valley from Dodabetta Peak.

5. Athirapally

If you want to feel the real power and thunder of monsoon, head to Athirapally Waterfalls located in Thrissur district. Falling from a height of 80 feet, this waterfall takes on such a huge form during the monsoon that it leaves tears in the eyes. Film buffs recognize it as the waterfall from the film ‘Baahubali’. Its water level is worth seeing during monsoon. Take a walk in the forests surrounding the waterfall, where you can see many rare birds and wildlife. The spray of water mixed in the air here drenches you from several meters away.

6. Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal, located in the Palani Hills of Tamil Nadu, is called the ‘Princess of Hill Stations’. The weather here becomes very romantic and magical during monsoon. The star-shaped Kodai Lake here remains surrounded by clouds during this season. The colorful flowers of ‘Bryant Park’ and the ‘Pillar Rocks’ (three vertical rocks) which remain hidden behind the clouds during the monsoon. The cool breeze and continuous mist here will take you to a different world.

7. Chikmagalur

Chikmagalur, situated at the foothills of Baba Budan Giri hills, is considered the stronghold of coffee in India. During monsoon, this place becomes a paradise for nature lovers and adventure lovers. Mullayanagiri, which is the highest peak in Karnataka, is completely covered with clouds during monsoon. Trekking there is very exciting in this season. Visit to Hebbe Falls and Kalhatti Falls. Passing through dense forests washed by rain water gives a spiritual solace.

8. Jog Falls

Jog Falls, formed by the Sharavati River, is one of the highest waterfalls in India. It may look like a thin stream in summer, but with the arrival of monsoon it assumes its fiercest and most beautiful form. When this waterfall, formed by the combination of four streams Raja, Roarer, Rocket and Rani, falls from a height of 830 feet, then the sight is worth seeing. Hearing the huge roar of the falling water from the view point in front and bowing down before this immense power of nature.

Some important tips before leaving on a trip

As beautiful as a monsoon trip is, it also demands equal caution. If you are going to these hilly areas of South India, always remember a few things:

• Always keep good waterproof shoes, umbrella and raincoat with you
• There is a risk of landslides on hilly roads, so be sure to get updates on the weather and routes before leaving.
• The incidence of mosquitoes and insects increases during monsoon, so do not forget to carry mosquito repellent and essential medicines.