The top rainy retreats of India

Lonavla, Maharashtra: What could be more heavenly than living amongst the clouds in the hills? The dreamy hill station of Lonavla, near Pune, comes alive with the monsoons. Apart from many dams, one can also check out numerous waterfalls, lakes and hills here. Tiger’s Point & Karla Caves are not to be missed.

Shillong, Meghalaya: Situated in the northeastern part of India, Shillong is aptly named ‘Scotland of the East’. Head to the country’s highest rainfall-receiving regions, Mawsynram and Cherrapunji that are situated close to Shillong. Nohkalikai Falls at Cherrapunji is a picture-perfect spot, and so is Laitlum Canyons.

Ranikhet, Uttarakhand: Known for its views of the Himalayas, Ranikhet is located in the Almora district of Uttarakhand. An erstwhile capital of the British Raj, this hill station is nestled in Kumaon Hills and is surrounded by dense forests with exotic wildlife. It has a golf course, gardens, temples, meadows and more.

Agumbe, Karnataka: Nicknamed the ‘Cherrapunji of South’, Agumbe is a monsoon paradise. The rains bring alive many waterfalls here such as Barkana, Kodlu Theertha, Onake Abbi, Jogigundi, Sirimane and more. Head to Sunset Point to catch the perfect sunset. Do not miss Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary here.