There is no greater joy than walking amid the lush-green forests and soaking in the pine-scented air during the rains. Travelling to luxurious resorts or nature trails is the best way to enjoy monsoon. Pack your bags, get ready to step into the wilderness or take off to posh landscaped retreat. While rest of the world flocks to South India, we bring you some of the best off beat monsoon escapes in Rajasthan and Maharashtra.
Water House Resort, Jaipur
The marine life swims under you while you relax and recline at the serene over-water luxurious suite at the Water House Resort. Here, you live in the lap of nature complete with streams, duck ponds, a 40ft high waterfall and a mesmerizing Buddha cave. It is a world away from the dusty sand dunes, forts and palaces of the region. The property is also equipped with outdoor showers and private patio. What’s better than enjoying rains over a hot cuppa at your private patio? Or sitting at the gazebo deck, which overlooks the Syari Valley in the divine Aravali hills!
Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur
Monsoon is the best time to witness the brimming lakes and emerald beauty of the hills in Udaipur. The legendary Rajput palaces and luxurious hotels that float on them make for an ideal romantic stays and add to your experience. Strategically located on Lake Pichola, Taj Lake Palace is one of the best properties to experience royal grandeur—stay in their palatial suites, enjoy the grand royal spread and relax your tired muscles at their tranquil spa.
Kolad, Maharashtra
Looking for some action? Head to this tiny hamlet in Mahad region of Maharashtra that offers spectacular treks, river rafting and panoramic views of the Sahyadri Range. While the treks to Avchitgad Fort and Wardaheni waterfall here are guided, river rafting is for the thrill seekers. The faint-hearted should definitely avoid it during the monsoon as the water levels are high. However, Kolad is a hotspot for adventure lovers. Kundalika is one of the fastest flowing rivers and its 14-km stretch is full of difficult rapids that are sure to give you some adrenaline rush.
Malshej Ghat
Covered under a green carpet during monsoon, this hill station in pristine Sahyadri range offers nature at its best. You would enjoy it more if you plan to drive through the picturesque valleys. The cascading waterfalls make this hill station a home to various varieties of flora and fauna. The place is also known to attract flamingos during the monsoon.