Snigdha TiwariIndia’s diverse landscape offers countless hidden gems, especially in August when the monsoon breathes new life into its natural wonders. While popular destinations often steal the spotlight, August is an excellent time to explore offbeat locales that showcase the country’s unique charm away from the usual tourist trails.
Here’s a guide to seven offbeat natural places in India that are perfect for a monsoon getaway this August:
1. Mawlynnong, Meghalaya
Often dubbed the cleanest village in Asia, Mawlynnong is a picturesque destination nestled in the East Khasi Hills of Meghalaya. The town is renowned for its pristine environment, traditional bamboo houses, and lush landscapes that are particularly captivating during the monsoon.
August is an excellent time to visit as the rains intensify the verdant beauty of the area. The living root bridges, a marvel of natural engineering, are in full glory, and the numerous waterfalls in and around Mawlynnong are in their most vigorous state.
The village also offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and the plains of Bangladesh, making it an enchanting spot for nature enthusiasts.
2. Chopta, Uttarakhand
Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors, Chopta is a hidden paradise in Uttarakhand, situated at around 2,600 meters.
Known as the ‘Mini Switzerland of India,’ Chopta is enveloped in a blanket of greenery in August, with the monsoon rains bringing out the lushness of the meadows and forests.
The trekking trails here, including the trek to Tungnath and Chandrashila, are rejuvenated by the rains, offering a fresh and invigorating experience. The cool weather and misty environment create a serene atmosphere, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in nature.
3. Munnar, Kerala
While Munnar is famous for its tea plantations and scenic beauty, visiting in August provides a unique perspective on this beloved hill station.
The monsoon transforms Munnar into a lush green paradise, with tea gardens and forests rejuvenated by the rains. The serene atmosphere is accentuated by the mist that often cloaks the hills, creating a dreamy landscape.
The Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, is particularly vibrant during this time. The waterfalls, such as Attukal and Nyayamakad, are at their most impressive, cascading with renewed vigor.
4. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Tawang, located in the northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh, is a lesser-known but breathtaking destination that comes alive during the monsoon. The rains accentuate the lush valleys, vibrant meadows, and pristine lakes, creating a mesmerizing landscape.
Tawang is also home to the Tawang Monastery, one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in India, perched on a hill overlooking the valley. The area is enveloped in mist and clouds in August, adding a mystical charm to its already stunning natural beauty.
The nearby Pankang Teng Tso Lake and the Bumla Pass offer scenic views that are particularly spectacular during this time.
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5. Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh
While most people think of wildlife safaris in the dry season, August offers a different experience in Kanha National Park.
The monsoon rains rejuvenate the park’s flora, transforming it into a lush green haven. This is an excellent time for birdwatching, as migratory species arrive and the landscape becomes vibrant with the colors of blooming flowers and verdant foliage.
Although tiger sightings might be less frequent than in the dry season, the park’s lush greenery and quieter atmosphere provide a unique and serene experience.
Exploring the park’s varied ecosystems, from dense forests to open grasslands, in the monsoon adds a different dimension to the wildlife experience.
6. Hemis, Ladakh
Hemis, a small village in the Leh district of Ladakh, is often overlooked in favor of more popular destinations like Leh and Nubra Valley. However, August is an excellent time to visit Hemis due to the pleasant weather and the vibrant landscape.
The monsoon clouds, combined with the stark beauty of the Himalayas, create a stunning contrast. The Hemis Monastery, one of the largest and wealthiest in Ladakh, is surrounded by a dramatic landscape that is particularly striking during this period.
The lush greenery around the monastery and the tranquil setting of the village offer a peaceful retreat from the more crowded tourist spots.
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7. Wayanad, Kerala
Wayanad, located in the Western Ghats of Kerala, is a verdant and relatively unexplored destination that shines in August.
The monsoon season amplifies the area’s natural beauty, with waterfalls, rivers, and dense forests coming alive with vibrant green hues.
The Edakkal Caves, with their ancient rock engravings, and the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary are must-visit spots. The sanctuary’s diverse wildlife, including elephants and tigers, is easier to spot against the lush backdrop.
The local plantations, including coffee and spice estates, provide a unique glimpse into the region’s agricultural heritage.
India’s monsoon season in August unveils a side of the country that many travelers miss—lush landscapes, rejuvenated waterfalls, and serene environments. By venturing to these offbeat destinations, you can experience a different facet of India’s natural beauty, away from the usual tourist trails.
Whether it’s the living root bridges of Mawlynnong, the misty meadows of Chopta, or the vibrant greens of Wayanad, each of these destinations offers a unique and refreshing escape into nature. So get ready to embrace the monsoon, and explore these hidden treasures of India.
