India's monsoon is a bit of a legend. It has featured in many books, films, and songs. Everyone in this tropical country looks forward to a much-needed respite from the summer heat when everything looks wet, lush, and rejuvenated. And we all have our favourite monsoon pastimes, don't we While some may cosy up with books and a strong latte, others sip on a cup of kadak chai and pakoras. 

Here is a glimpse of the beauty of the Indian monsoon in 7 pictures

The hill town of Darjeeling is a gateway to paradise during monsoon, as the clouds touch the ground (quite literally). Whenever you find yourself here during monsoon, don&rsquot forget to hit up the famous Glenary's bakery and get your hands on their English breakfast. 

The Valley of Flowers in Uttarakhand gets a whole new look after a fresh spell of rains. 

The hilly roads of Uttarakhand with dense forests are not for the faint-hearted, especially during the monsoon. 

Who doesn&rsquot love Mumbai&rsquos cutting chai on a rainy day 

During the monsoon, a variety of fauna can be spotted. 

The clouds turn dramatic and the earth smells different. What better way than a photograph like this to hold on to the drama of the monsoon  

The Western Ghats are among the most preferred destinations in the country to witness the many moods of the monsoon.