10 Must-Visit Places In India This August

August in India marks a period of transition, in the middle of the monsoon season and heralding the onset of cooler, more agreeable weather. This month presents an ideal opportunity to set off on an adventure and discover the stunning beauty that unfolds with the monsoon. August provides a distinct chance to experience the multifaceted allure of India, from mountains shrouded in mist to landscapes revitalised by the rains. Below are ten destinations in India that are especially captivating during August, and why they deserve a spot on your travel itinerary.

Munnar, Kerala

The most popular hill station in Kerala, Munnar is about 127km from Kochi (Cochin). Acres of forests and tea gardens cover the hill slopes in a mantle of green. While August may bring a hint of humidity, the weather predominantly features a cool and breezy ambiance. Temperatures gracefully oscillate between 23 to 36 degrees Celsius. The periodic rainfall washes away the accumulated grime, rejuvenating the vast expanses of tea plantations and endowing them with a refreshed and vibrant appearance. Spend your days exploring Munnar and its surroundings, and enjoy peaceful evenings in the many luxury resorts that occupy different corners of the hill. You can catch a panoramic view of the Western Ghats from Top Station, a railhead that once delivered tea from Munnar. Wildlife enthusiasts must pay a visit to the Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri tahr. Anamudi is the highest peak of the Western Ghats and is a popular trekking destination. Echo Point, the Mattupety Dam, the Power House Waterfalls in Chinnakanal, and Kundala Town are just some of the popular attractions that can be covered from Munnar. Before going back home, don't forget to buy locally-grown tea and home-made chocolates. Check here for our three-day itinerary to Munnar. And here for the must-visit places. If you are looking for charming hostels to stay in, we have compiled the perfect list for you.

Getting There

The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, which is around 125 km away from Munnar. The nearest railway station is located in Kochi or Ernakulam. It is a major junction of the trains coming from various parts of India including Delhi, Bangalore, Mumbai, Kolkata, Mangalore, etc.

Darjeeling, West Bengal

Once the summer capital of the British empire, the scenic hill station of Darjeeling in West Bengal is a land of picturesque sunrises, old-world charm, great shopping options, and delicious food. The cool climate combined with the views of Mt Kanchenjunga makes this hill station a must-visit destination. It has something for everybody, from paragliding to monasteries to tea plantation tours and truckloads of charm. Home to the ever-popular Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Darjeeling in West Bengal is often referred to as the “Queen of the Hills.” If you're undaunted by heavy rains, August could be the perfect month to explore Darjeeling. This period showcases the region's lush green scenery at its peak, offering spectacular photo opportunities for photography enthusiasts.

The best place to stay in Darjeeling is at a tea estate. Check here for our list. If you are looking for offbeat places to visit, we have a list here. And if you are first-timer and looking for the best things to do, check here for our three-day itinerary to the hill town and its surroundings.

Getting There

Bagdogra Airport is the closest airport and a taxi ride takes three hours to Darjeeling. The New Jalpaiguri (NJP) Railway Station is the nearest railhead and takes three hours to reach the city. If you prefer road travel, drive or hire a car from Siliguri or Bagdogra to reach Darjeeling in approximately two to three hours.

Goa

Goa is a great place to visit during the monsoon. It transforms into a lively destination with seasonal markets, rain parties, and cultural events. Goa may be the sunny beach paradise of India renowned for its pristine coastline, but it acquires a laid-back atmosphere during the rains. While many visitors flock to the popular beaches and clubs, there's a world of offbeat experiences awaiting those who seek something unique during their Goa trip. Divar Island in Goa is a hidden gem waiting to be explored by curious travellers. Fontainhas, often called the Latin Quarter of Goa, is a charming and lesser-known neighbourhood enchants tourists with its vibrant history and European ambience. Chill out at the beach. Check out the grand country mansions built by the Portuguese. Pick up local breads from neighbourhood bakeries. Hit up the museums. Goa is home to as many as 10,000 licensed bars. Needless to say, one is spoilt for choice when choosing where to have a tipple. Check here for recommendations from locals. And check here for our three-day itinerary to Goa.

Getting There

The nearest airport to Margao is Dabolim Airport which is 23 km away. Madgaon Railway Station is the nearest railway head to South Goa and is connected to major railway stations nearby. You can reach the place form major cities like Mangalore, Udupi, Bhatkal, Kumta, Karwar, Ratnagiri, and Mumbai through the National Highway 66 (NH66).

Coorg, Karnataka

Tucked away in Karnataka’s Western Ghats, Coorg, or Kodagu, invites travelLers to immerse themselves in its awe-inspiring landscapes. This hill station, often referred to as the "Scotland of India," is a mosaic of mist-clad hills and expansive coffee plantations, including those owned by TATA and various independent cultivators. It is a realm of cascading waterfalls, tranquil ponds, and lakes, surrounded by a rich tapestry of biodiversity. Coorg is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts, offering the chance to navigate through its rugged terrains on treks or to experience the thrill of river rafting on its vigorous rapids. For those seeking a dive into the cultural ethos, the ancient temples, monasteries, and historic forts provide a glimpse into the rich tapestry of the past. The region is renowned for its warm hospitality and culinary delights, with dishes infused with local aromatic spices that promise a sensory feast. Its serene ambiance serves as a sanctuary for nature aficionados and those looking to escape the hustle of urban life, offering an idyllic retreat amidst nature’s majesty. Check here for our three-day itinerary. If you want to stay in a coffee estate, check here for info.

Getting There

Coorg is easily accessible from Bengaluru via road. The nearest airports and railheads are in Mysuru and Bengaluru.

Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

Nestled in the Palani hills of the Western Ghats, Kodaikanal stands as a testament to nature's splendor, rightly earning the title of the 'Princess of Hill Stations'. Perched at an elevation of 2,225 meters above sea level, this enchanting town is a treasure trove of natural beauty, boasting an array of waterfalls, pristine lakes, dense forests, and dramatic cliffs. The name 'Kodaikanal' itself, derived from the Tamil words 'kodai' meaning 'gift' and 'kanal' indicating 'forest', reflects the town's essence as a precious gift from nature. A favoured summer haven for British officers during the colonial era, Kodaikanal's lush landscapes and serene environment continue to captivate visitors from all around the world. Check here for a weekend itinerary to Kodaikanal. The iconic Kodaikanal Solar Observatory (KSO) in Tamil Nadu has been a mainstay of Indian astronomy since it was founded on April 1, 1899 by the British East India Company. Check here for a list of boutique hotel stay options and here for the best homestays.

Getting There

The nearest airports are Madurai (120 km) and Coimbatore (170 km). From these airports, you can hire a taxi or use bus services to reach Kodaikanal. Alternatively, you can take a train to Kodai Road railway station, about 80 km away, and then travel by road. There are regular bus services from cities like Madurai, Coimbatore, and Bangalore.

Leh, Ladakh

One of the reasons Ladakh sees fewer visitors in August is due to the fact that many travelers planning a road trip to this region tend to avoid the monsoon season. During the monsoon, the water crossings over the high mountain passes on both routes that connect Leh to the rest of India via road become significantly turbulent. However, once you've arrived, the likelihood of experiencing rain drops dramatically. Notably, both major highways, the Srinagar-Leh and the Manali-Leh, remain accessible in August. Go stargazing while you are here. Leh is known for its clear skies and high altitude, making it an ideal spot for stargazing. You can spot the Milky Way and the Andromeda Galaxy if you are lucky, you might even spot a shooting star. Also check out the Magnetic Hill in Leh. Lamayuru falls on the Leh-Kargil-Srinagar Highway, and is known for its monastery and the incredible landscape that has earned it the label of "moonland." 

Getting There

The closest airport is located in the town of Leh, called the Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport.

Shillong, Meghalaya

You don't really need a reason to visit Shillong since the city is at its best throughout the year. But Shillong in August is a great place where one can explore a lovely locale on a cool, breezy and sunny day. With residual monsoon and a hint of cool winter just around the corner, Shillong in August wakes up to misty mornings, pleasant afternoons and breezy evenings. Fondly known as the "Scotland of the East," Shillong's lush green hills and cascading waterfalls come alive during this season. The famous Elephant Falls, with abundant monsoon rainfall, becomes a visual spectacle. Check here for our travel guide to Shillong. Check here for places to stay and eat.

Getting There 

To reach Shillong, one can fly to Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati and then undertake a picturesque drive to the city.

Valley Of Flowers, Uttarakhand

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its meadows adorned with countless alpine flowers, painting the landscape with beautiful hues. The Valley of Flowers National Park, situated in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand is one of the two core zones of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve. The valley is known for its breathtaking beauty, and transforms into a kaleidoscope of colours in August. All trekkers have to carry a photo ID for entry at forest check posts through the trek route. Trek permits are valid for three days. Here is a guide to help you plan your visit there.

Getting There

Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest to Govindghat at a distance of 292 km. The nearest railhead to Govindghat is the Rishikesh railway station at 273 km. Govindghat is well connected to the major cities nearby such as Haridwar, Rishikesh, Srinagar, Delhi and others.

Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra

Nestled in the foothills of the Western Ghats, Mahabaleshwar is a mesmerising hill station that beckons visitors to explore the charms of its abundant natural wonders and rich history. Located in Maharashtra's Satara district, this charming destination offers a captivating fusion of lush surroundings, gushing waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints that offer breathtaking views of the Sahyadri range. If you are coming here with your family, check here for our guide. If you are looking for places to stay, check our list. Check out our list of best things to buy in Mahabaleshwar and bring back a bagful of these goodies on your trip.

Getting There

The closest railway station to Mahabaleshwar is Satara, located at a distance of 45 kilometres. Satara is well connected with other cities of Maharashtra and major Indian cities. Multiple trains travel to Satara from Mumbai and Pune. You can also book a flight to Pune airport, which is located 120 kilometres away from Mahabaleshwar, and then book a direct bus or taxi to Mahabaleshwar from there.

Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

Located on the right bank of the holy Ganges river in the state of Uttarakhand, Rishikesh is renowned for being the "Yoga Capital of the World" and "Gateway to Garhwal Himalayas." The city is a revered spiritual and religious hub among Hindus, especially for Sadhus, who come here to meditate and search for the higher self beside numerous temples and ashrams built alongside the Ganges River. However, apart from being a major hub of spirituality, Rishikesh is also a popular spot amongst tourists who come here to immerse themselves in its scenic beauty and tranquil surroundings. Check here and here for our guides to Rishikesh.

Getting There

Fly to Dehradun's Jolly Grant Airport for the nearest airport to Rishikesh. Daily flights from Delhi and other cities by airlines such as Air India, Spice Jet, and IndiGo. To reach Rishikesh by train, go to Haridwar, which is 25 km away and well-connected to major Indian cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, and Lucknow. Buses connect Rishikesh to Delhi and other pilgrimage sites, like Haridwar. Morning and late evening buses from the Kashmiri Gate ISBT depart daily to Rishikesh.