India, with its diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage, offers an array of travel experiences. While the likes of Goa, Manali, and Kerala manage to attract droves of tourists, there exists a plethora of lesser-known gems that keep in store an experience unlike any other. Especially if you are planning to go in July when the monsoon is breathing life into everything. So, read on to find a list of destinations in India quenching the never-ending wanderlust and making peace within their chaotic selves; alongside tips for exploring these places off-the-beaten-path in July.
Spiti Valley - an arid, high-altitude valley located in Himachal Pradesh that resembles a barren desert but turns into a verdant green heaven during the monsoon months. Precisely due to the amazing sceneries and ancient Monasteries, the unique Tibetan culture makes Ladakh one of the best tourist places in India during July. The road to Spiti is an adventure in itself and it has winding roads set beside tall mountains on one side and a steep valley down the other. One of the abiding favorites is the 1000-year-old key Monastery, nestled atop a hilltop, and offering panoramic views while allowing you to soak in some Buddhist culture. Chandratal Lake, also known as the 'Moon Lake,' is a high-altitude lake situated in Lahaul and Spiti India. Wildlife enthusiasts should head to Pin Valley National Park, known for snow leopards and Himalayan ibex-watching them is a delight here. Trekking the rough outskirts, visiting age-old monasteries, and camping at peace by Chandratal Lake is a sparkle that further elevates the charm of Spiti Valley.
Manohar International Airport in Goa is the gateway to this fascinating state. The modern amenities and convenient access make it the perfect place to begin your trip. From here, you can get a flight to one of the neighbouring big cities such as Delhi or Chandigarh, and then proceed to the Spiti Valley.
Plonked in the Eastern Himalayas, Tawang is an Eden of history and nature together. The Tawang Monastery, one of the biggest in India celebrates the age-old spiritual dignity and comes forward with amazing architecture in a calm environment. Another feature is the stunning Nuranang Falls (also called Bong Bong), displaying a surging force of water. A trip to the ancient Tawang Monastery, cruising through picturesque Sela Pass, and having a family picnic by the waterfall at Nuranang; bring some things that make Tawang an unlike quiet hideaway.
Ziro is a small and beautiful valley located in the heart of Arunachal Pradesh. Its lush green landscapes along with rice fields give it something of an other-worldly feel; due to this, Ziro also attracts tourists from all over the globe who wish to experience hub Tani Tribal World. The monsoon rains of July add to the charm of this valley and render it one of the unique places to go in India in July. The charm of the valley is in its simplicity and warmth. September brings with itself the Ziro Music Festival in full swing, but you can hear the valley buzzing months before that as well. Local sightseeing involves a visit to the Apatani tribal village, trekking through the picturesque trails of Talley Valley, and enjoying lush green paddy fields.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Valley of Flowers is a vibrant and colorful national park located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. The valley is in full bloom during July and August, making it one of the best places to visit in July in India. The valley's beauty is unparalleled, with a diverse range of endemic flora turning the landscape into a floral wonderland. The trek to the valley offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks and serene landscapes. The nearby Hemkund Sahib, a revered Sikh pilgrimage site, adds a spiritual dimension to the journey. Trekking through the valley to witness the blooming flowers, visiting Hemkund Sahib, and enjoying the pristine beauty and tranquil environment are highlights of a visit to the Valley of Flowers.
Majuli, is the largest river island in the world and lies in the “Middle of Brahmaputra River“. Popular as the artist's life story here and its hypnotizing characteristic excellence, Majuli is one of the best places to go in India amid July on account of the lavish green valleys. Home to some of the sastras (monasteries) with Palankeen bearers, this island is a melting pot for neo-Vaishnavite culture where you experience traditional Assamese music, dance, and crafts. Local festivals are also known to appreciatively enhance the atmosphere, especially during monsoon. The place is also a paradise for ornithologists as the wetlands of Majuli are home to numerous migratory birds. Visits to the ancient sastras, interaction with local communities, and cultural fairs or festivals where you could be a part of an exciting nature getaway.
Located in the Western Ghats, Wayanad is a unique and attractive district with agricultural valleys, waterfalls, wildlife sanctuaries, as well as its most charming feature - spice plantations. This is a place to visit in July, where the Monsoon season swoops down, turning Wayanad into a lush green heaven. It has rich flora and fauna among which is the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary with elephants, tigers, and egrets. From its ancient petroglyphs to the Edakkal Caves which date back to thousands of years. Trekking enthusiasts might like Chembra Peak - a peak with a heart-shaped lake and sweeping views. Experience the calm, serene waters of Banasura Sagar Dam - India's largest earthen dam and a boat ride too.
Mandu, a historical place located in Madhya Pradesh, is known for its ancient architecture and landscapes. Mandu revives best during monsoons and hence is one of the best places to visit in July, August in India. Its history is evidenced by its town architecture, which includes Jahaz Mahal and Hindola Mahal. Rani Roopmati has two covered platforms that offer splendid views of the Narmada River as well as surrounding areas. The flora with the monsoon showers gives a historical feel to these structures.
Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is a picturesque hill station in Karnataka. Known for its coffee plantations, lush greenery, and pleasant climate, Coorg is one of the best places to visit in July in India. The region's beauty is accentuated by the monsoon, with waterfalls like Abbey Falls and Iruppu Falls becoming more spectacular. The Raja’s Seat offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys, especially during sunrise and sunset. The Dubare Elephant Camp provides a unique experience to interact with elephants and learn about their routines. Exploring the coffee plantations, visiting the Abbey Falls, and spending time at the Dubare Elephant Camp offer a rejuvenating retreat.
Chikmagalur is this serene terrace land known for its coffee plantations, a paradise tucked away in Karnataka. One of the best places to visit in July and August in India, this heaven is even more mesmerizing during monsoon season as it reaches its full natural elegance. Mullayanagiri Peak, the highest point in Karnataka is yet another place to visit for some amazing views and a good trek. The Baba Budangiri range, famous for its trekking trails and the well-known Dattatreya Peetha, makes this area all the more inviting. Hebbe Falls - a serene and picturesque waterfall ensconced in the lap of thick green shola forests with coffee estates for company. The combination of trudges along Mullayanagiri Peak, taking strolls through the Baba Budangiri range, and chilling at Hebbe Falls serves up that perfect medley of adventure meets relaxation.
Pelling, this town of Sikkim, one of the best places to visit in July and August in India will give you a view that is pretty mesmerizing along with rich serenity. Visit this dreamy destination in July when monsoons are at their peak, adding a magical touch to the already lovely landscapes. In contrast, the Pemayangtse Monastery is amongst some of the oldest as well as important monasteries in Sikkim. The Rabdentse Ruins, the remnants of the ancient capital of Sikkim, can offer you a historical exploration. During the rains, one of the most majestic waterfalls, the Kanchenjunga Falls, become wholesome with a streak. A visit to Pemayangtse Monastery, trekking through the Rabdentse Ruins, and marveling at Kanchenjunga Falls offer a tranquil escape.
During the monsoon season, India somehow gets rejuvenated with Mother Earth blessing all her scapes and making it a great time to travel to offbeat destinations. While Spiti Valley will awe you with its raw charm and Majuli inspire serenity, Tawang's rich culture and Wayanad's lush greenery are worth experiencing as places to visit in July in India. These offbeat destinations are perfect for any nature-loving, adventure-seekers, and even history buffs like us. Book your tickets, welcome the monsoon, and hit some of the lightning places to visit in July and August in India.
GMR Group's CSR arm, focusing on building social infrastructure and improving the lives of communities near the Group's locations.
