Over time, the monsoon has turned into a big tourist event in India. Most of India experiences hot weather throughout the year and many consider the monsoon the best time of the year. The monsoon experience is different in different Indian states. The temperature plummets down during the day and night alike, which is a great relief from the scorching heat. Since monsoon provides the most favorable climate conditions, many like to arrange their vacations and excursions during that time period.
And the state of Karnataka has a great reputation in that field. Karnataka is most beautiful during the monsoon period. The lush green forests, the scenic waterfalls, the never-ending curves of grasslands, and the extraordinary wildlife make the state a heavenly paradise during that time. Trekking in the Western Ghats is always a great experience. If it is monsoon, it will add more fun to your adventure with heavy rain, green meadows, overflowing streams, slippery rocks, misty weather in the valley, enchanting waterfalls, and finally leech bites.
# CoorgCoorg is often cited as one of the most beautiful places in India. Coorg or Kodagu as it is often referred to be is situated in the beautiful Western Ghats of India. Coorg is also known as The Scotland of India among travelers and rightfully so.
While this little town adorned with patches of green tea plantations and aromatic spice plantations, is an all-year-round destination, the monsoon is widely considered to be the best time to visit Coorg as the town is drenched in rain, and the lush-green plantations that offer enchanting views.
# Lush Green Rainforests of AgumbeIt is located in the Malnad region amidst thick forests stretching hundreds of kilometers on the way. As part of the Western Ghats mountain range, Agumbe lies in a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
If you grew up in the 90s and have never heard of Malgudi Days, then there’s something wrong with you. Malgudi — a fictitious town from R.K. Narayan’s novel — is actually Agumbe Village. Agumbe is one of the wettest places in India. The highest rainfall in South India and the second highest in India are recorded here. Hence the village is also known as ‘The Cherrapunji of the South.
# Ballalarayana Durga fortDense rain forests, endless grasslands, clear streams, and waterfalls are some of the things that can be used to describe Ballalarayana Durga. The fort was constructed by the wife of Veera Ballala l who was the king of the Hoysala Empire in the 12th century.
During monsoon, the place transforms itself into a paradise protected from the outside world. Ballalarayana Durga hill range falls under the Bankal range of Mudigere forest division. One can get a view of the entire Kudremukha hill range, Charmadi ghats, and other hill ranges. The hill is the highest in its range, and the panoramic views from here are breathtaking.
# Dandeli National ParkDandeli is a picturesque village located on the banks of river Kali in Karwar. There is a multitude of reasons to visit Dandeli. Bird watching, river rafting, water adventures, and wildlife are some of the reasons why people visit Dandeli. Rain brings lush greenery to Dandeli, which is an amazing feast for your eyes.
Rain in Dandeli provides a poetic and surreal experience to the visitors. One of the richest wildlife habitats in the world and home to several valuable trees and animals, Dandeli is also lauded as a bird watcher’s paradise and home to over 450 species of birds. If you are a wildlife enthusiast, the forests of Dandeli are one of the excellent places to savor the exotic flora and fauna during the monsoon in Karnataka.
# The Ancient World of HampiHampi is one of the places to visit in Karnataka during the monsoon. Hampi usually receives less rainfall compared to other regions in Karnataka. Hampi being one of the most important UNESCO world heritage sites is popular among foreigners and will be very crowded during winter. Hampi will be much more peaceful and less crowded during the monsoon season.
Boating and coracle rides in increased water levels are some of the favorite things to do among the locals during this period. The copious temples make the scenic landscape of Hampi look breathtaking when drenched in the rains. The pleasant weather makes it easier to hop from one monument to another in the pursuit of perfect photographs.
# Scenic drive to ChikmagalurThe list of places to visit in Karnataka during the monsoon is never complete without adding Chikmagalur. Chikmagalur is one of those places that are blessed with lots of attractions that comes alive in monsoon and will be filled with travelers from various places. During the rainy season, nothing can be more pleasurable than driving through Chikmagalur when nature is at its best.
The Charmadi Ghat near Chikmagalur is one of the beautiful monsoon scenic drives through the Western Ghats as it is dotted with numerous waterfalls and surrounded by lush green forests and mountains. Heavy rains in the monsoon make this hill station more inviting with lush greenery and cascading waterfalls.