Best Monsoon Road Trips in India: 5 Quick Weekend Itineraries

Imagine your car is running through a butter-like highway surrounding overlapping hills and frills of raindrops hazing your view. You, leaning your head against the car window, slowly sinking into this beauty while the soft lyrics of Hariharan or Ed Sheeran gradually take your senses away! Dreamy huh? But you can turn this dream into reality and live your monsoon days to the fullest.

The damp earthy smell, clinks of tea glasses, and aroma of pakoda tell us that monsoon is here. As fun, as it is to watch the rain from your balcony, road-tripping during this season is a different adventure. So pack your bag and embark on a thrilling journey through some of the best monsoon road trips in India. If you're looking for some of the best places to visit during monsoon in India, these five routes deserve a spot on your list.

So fasten your seat belt and read up.

Quick overview: Best monsoon road trips in India 

• Mumbai → Lonavala → Bhandardara: Waterfalls, western ghats, and classic monsoon vibes
• Bangalore → Coorg → Chikmagalur: Coffee trails, misty hills and lush green roads
• Fort Kochi → Munnar: Tea estates, rainforest drives, and rolling hill views
• Jaipur → Udaipur: Lakes, Aravalli greenery, and a monsoon surprise in Rajasthan
• Rishikesh → Mussoorie: Himalayan foothills, river views, and misty mountain roads

Mumbai - Lonavala - Bhandardara

• Best for: Waterfalls, scenic weekend drives, and first-time monsoon road trippers
• Trip type: Weekend road trip from Mumbai
• What to expect: Western Ghats, hill stations, lakes, dams, and plenty of chai stops

Lush greenery, waterfalls, and century-old caves, the Mumbai-Lonavala road trip has a lot to offer, and the journey further is an equally exciting drive through small roads and beautiful monsoon-drenched hillocks. Whether you're starting your trip from Mumbai or checking in after arriving in the city, The Hosteller Mumbai provides a convenient base before hitting the road. The 271 km stretch from Mumbai to Bhandardara via Lonavala is perfect for a leisurely monsoon getaway. After reaching Lonavala, you can check into The Hosteller Lonavala, City Centre or The Hosteller Bam Lonavala, Tiger Point for a night before heading to Bhandardara the next day.

As you set off from Mumbai, the lush Western Ghats envelop you in their verdant embrace, providing a picturesque backdrop throughout the journey. Lonavala, the charming hill station, is the first stop on this monsoon road trip. Enjoy Bhushi Dam’s vivacious water this season and the view of the plush green valley from the Tiger’s Leap point. Your monsoon trip in Lonavala is incomplete without the mesmerizing sunset from Lion’s Point, a place also famous for sunset and night treks. 

If you’re an adventure junkie, trek high up to Rajmachi Fort for a greener and luxuriant experience of the surrounding Western Ghats and Shirota Dam.

Continuing the journey the next day, you'll encounter the bewitching town of Bhandardara in the Sahyadri Range, where The Hosteller Bhandardara, with its earthy terracotta accents and century-old vintage cottage doors, makes for a beautifully fitting place to stay.  This monsoon haven boasts stunning landscapes with cascading waterfalls like Randha and Umbrella Falls. Experience the serenity of Arthur Lake, embraced by rolling hills, and witness the ethereal Wilson Dam. 

Monsoon road trips from Mumbai to Lonavala and Bhandardara are also rich in the gastronomical experience. In Lonavala, relish the famed chikki and indulge in creamy strawberry desserts made from locally grown berries. Bhandardara beckons with rustic dhabas serving lip-smacking Maharashtrian delicacies like sabudana khichdi, puran poli, and misal pav amidst nature's embrace. Prepare to feast upon regional delights that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Quick Facts: 

• Mumbai to Lonavala: approx 86 km and takes around 2 to 3 hrs
• Lonavala to Bhandardara: approx 186 km and takes around 4 to 5 hrs
• Things to cover in Lonavala: Tiger Point, Bhushi Dam, Karla and Bhaja Caves, Lion’s Point
• Things to cover in Bhandardara: Arthur Lake, Randha, Umbrella Falls, Ratangad Fort
• Weather in Lonavala during monsoon: 24℃ to 29℃ with heavy rainfall
• Weather in Bhandardara during monsoon: 20℃ to 30℃ with moderate to heavy rainfall

Bangalore - Coorg - Chikmagalur

• Best for: Coffee lovers, misty hills, and scenic monsoon drives
• Trip type: Weekend road trip from Bangalore
• What to expect: Coffee estates, waterfalls, forest bends, and cool weather

Starting from Bangalore, you can choose from The Hosteller's locations across Indiranagar, Koramangala, HSR Layout, Brigade Road, Marathahalli and Manyata Tech Park, making it easy to pick a base close to wherever you're coming from. The journey then takes you through winding roads flanked by misty hills, rolling plains and coffee plantations all the way to Coorg. The dewy mountain weather is cherry on top for this 275 km Mysore-Madikeri highway stretch that leads to the coffee capital. Coffee estates slowly replacing highways is the kind of transition this route is known for.

In this 6 hour journey, make sure to take breaks, breathe in the misty air, take loads of photos and then resume your journey into the green fields. Visit the Namdroling Monastery, "the Golden Temple" in Kushalnagar, a Tibetan Buddhist teaching center in between. Reach Madikeri, a quaint town, and have a chill night at one of The Hosteller's stays in Coorg, depending on the vibe you're after. 

Explore the awe-inspiring Abbey Falls, stroll in the aromatic coffee plantations, and learn about the art of coffee-making in Coorg. Don't miss visiting Raja's Seat, a vantage point offering panoramic views of the mist-covered valleys. Coorg also boasts yummy street foods, such as the iconic pandi curry (pork curry) and akki roti (rice flour bread), a must-try for food enthusiasts.

The journey continues the next day or a day later to Chikmagalur, a paradise for nature lovers. This 175 km stretch takes approx three and a half hours through stunning mountain bends and lush forests. The ethereal beauty of the Mullayanagiri Peak, the highest peak in Karnataka, will awe you with a 360-degree view of the valley. Discover the enchanting Hebbe Falls, and take a sip from the aromatic filter coffee to realize that monsoon is in full swing. Relish local delicacies like bisi bele bath (spicy rice and lentil dish) and masala dosa, before retiring to The Hosteller Chikmagalur, tucked right inside a coffee plantation for the most fitting end to the day.

Coorg and Chikmagalur are heaven for you if you're a coffee lover! You can buy Arabica and Robusta coffee beans from Coorg Coffee Estate, one of the best estates in Coorg. Coffee Yatra Chikmagalur, conducts tours and coffee-tasting experiences in the estate at a very nominal price. You can also buy coffee beans and other coffee blends from them. So, gear up for a memorable monsoon road trip and embrace the magic along the way with this exceptional route.

Quick Facts:

• Bangalore to Coorg: approx 275 km and takes around 6 hrs
• Coorg to Chikmagalur: approx 175 km and takes around 3 to 4 hrs
• Prominent halting places: Kushalnagar, Madikeri
• Things to cover in Coorg: Abbey Falls, Coffee Estate, Raja’s Seat
• Things to cover in Chikmagalur: Mullayanagiri Peak, Hebbe Falls
• Weather in Coorg during monsoon: 23℃ to 26℃ with heavy rainfall
• Weather in Chikmagalur during monsoon: 28℃ to 35℃ with heavy rainfall

Fort Kochi - Munnar

• Best for: Tea estates, rainforest drives, and relaxed monsoon travel
• Trip type: Scenic road trip in Kerala
• What to expect: Tea gardens, waterfalls, suspension bridges, and misty viewpoints

Scintillating stretches of tropical South Indian roads, coupled with ridiculously beautiful surroundings, makes it a must-do road trip in India. Base yourself at The Hosteller Fort Kochi or The Hosteller Fort Kochi, Ocean Edge, both just minutes from Fort Kochi beach, before setting off. 

In this picturesque stretch of 130 km from Kochi, you’ll cross the rolling hills of Western Ghats with sprawling tea and spice gardens on both sides and hillocks. The monsoon travel experience along this route is especially magical, with rain-soaked foliage and cascading waterfalls spraying their sweet fragrance into the air.

In this three and a half hour journey, you can stop at Neriamangalam to visit the Inchathotty Suspension Bridge, the longest hanging bridge in Kerala. The cascading beauty of Valara waterfall in Chillithodu on the way to Kochi will most definitely take your breath away. If you have time, you can also hike to Cheeyappara Waterfalls, another waterfall in Chillithodu, and one of its most popular trekking spots.

Munnar will greet you with vibrant shades of green at the end of this journey, and The Hosteller Munnar, a sprawling resort-style backpacker hostel, is the perfect spot to set up base. Visiting the Mattupetty Dam, and trekking to Anamudi, the highest peak in South India, are the two major activities here. Enjoy nature’s solace amidst mountains and eucalyptus forests in the Silent Valley, a place shrouded in many legends. On the right side of this valley, you can see the second highest peak in South India – the Meesapulimala. 

Indulge in Kerala's street food flavors during your visit to Munnar. Try the crispy pazham pori (banana fritters) and Kerala style samosas. For a hearty meal, feast on traditional Malabar biryani or savor a plate of appam with mutton stew. Enjoy a meal at one of the local tea estate restaurants or try authentic Kerala cuisine at popular eateries like Saravana Bhavan or Rapsy Restaurant.

Quick Facts:

• Fort Kochi to Munnar: approx 130 km and takes around 3 hrs
• Prominent halting places: Neriamangalam, Chillithodu
• Things to cover in Fort Kochi: Jew Town, Kerala Folklore Theater and Museum, Mattancherry, Fort Kochi Beach, Kerala Kathakali Centre
• Things to cover in Munnar: Mattupetty Dam, Anamudi Peak, Silent Valley tea estates
• Weather in Kochi during monsoon: 26℃ to 28℃ with moderate to heavy rainfall
• Weather in Munnar during monsoon: 20℃ to 25℃ with moderate to heavy rainfall

Jaipur - Udaipur

Best for: Heritage, lakes, and a monsoon surprise in Rajasthan
Trip type: Cultural road trip in Rajasthan with scenic views
What to expect: Aravalli views, forts, lakes, food, and romantic sunset stops

If we say to take a monsoon road trip to Rajasthan, would you believe us? The first question may arise, how can an arid region like Rajasthan be perfect for a monsoon trip? Well, Rajasthan is divided into two regions, Mewar and Marwar; where Marwar is the arid region, and Mewar includes Bhilwara, Chittorgarh, Pratapgarh, Rajsamand, Udaipur, etc., which receive significant yearly rainfall. The route to Udaipur covers 396 kilometers and offers lush green beauty, rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture.

Starting from Jaipur, the Pink City of India, you can check into The Hosteller Jaipur, MI Road or The Hosteller Bam Jaipur, Hawa Mahal before setting off through the picturesque Aravalli Range, adorned with lush greenery during the monsoon season. You can stop to visit Kishangarh Fort and Kishangarh Dumpyard, a popular location with surrounding marble mountains. A detour to Bhilwara is absolutely worth it to enjoy medieval Indian architecture. Pur Udan Chatri and Badone Fort are two major attractions here.

As you arrive in Udaipur, the City of Lakes, you'll be greeted by the majestic Lake Pichola and the iconic City Palace standing tall against the backdrop of the Aravalli hills. Check into The Hosteller Udaipur, just five minutes from the City Palace, Lake Pichola, and Jagdish Temple, before you head out to explore. Explore the exquisite architecture of the Jag Mandir Palace, Jagdish Temple, and Saheliyon Ki Bari. Don't miss the beautiful sunset boat ride on Lake Pichola and the stunning city view from the Monsoon Palace. 

Indulge in the flavors of Rajasthan's street food during your visit. Try the delicious kachoris, mirchi vadas (stuffed chili fritters), and the famous pyaaz ki kachori. Savor the Rajasthani thali at popular eateries like Natraj Dining Hall or Santosh Bhojnalaya. And if you’re a non-vegetarian, don’t forget to try the traditional Rajasthani meat dishes like laal maas or saag maas when in Rajasthan. Nurture your romantic soul by having dinner overlooking Lake Pichola at restaurants like Ambrai or 1559 AD, which serve various Rajasthani and international cuisines.

With a perfect blend of culture and nature, the Jaipur-Udaipur monsoon trip is a must during this rainy season.

Quick facts:

• Jaipur to Udaipur: approx 396 km and takes around 6 hrs
• Prominent halting places: Kishangarh, Bhilwara
• Things to cover in Jaipur: City Palace, Amer Fort, Nahargarh Fort, Jal Mahal, Hawa Mahal, Bapu Bazaar
• Things to cover in Udaipur: City Palace, Lake Pichola, Fatehsagar Lake, Monsoon Palace, Saheliyon ki Badi
• Weather in Jaipur during monsoon: 27℃ to 32℃ with low to moderate rainfall
• Weather in Udaipur during monsoon: 24℃ to 28℃ with moderate to heavy rainfall

Rishikesh - Mussoorie

• Best for: Himalayan views, waterfalls, and a classic monsoon mountain drive
• Trip type: Weekend getaway from Rishikesh
• What to expect: River views, misty roads, local food, and cool hill station weather

What could be better than enjoying a road trip through the drenched rainforests of Himalayan foothills, witnessing the ever-agile Ganga river by its side while the raindrops cascade outside your car window? Before you set off, settle into one of hostels in Rishikesh by The Hosteller, most of which are just a short walk from the riverbank.

This scenic route, spanning approximately 73 kilometers, offers a refreshing blend of nature and tranquility. The monsoon travel experience along this route is enchanting, as the rain transforms the surroundings into a teeming paradise.

As you reach Mussoorie, you'll be awed by mist-covered peaks and panoramic views of the Doon Valley. Explore the iconic Mall Road, bustling with shops and cafes. Take a cable car ride to Gun Hill, the second-highest peak in Mussoorie, for breathtaking vistas of the valley. Visit Kempty Falls and trek to Lal Tibba, the highest point in Mussoorie.
 

Indulge in the flavors of Uttarakhand's street food during your visit. Savor hot momos or indulge in the lip-smacking local chaat, such as aloo tikki and golgappas. Don't miss the opportunity to try the famous Garhwali dishes like Kafuli, Phaanu, and Bal Mithai. When it comes to dining, Mussoorie offers a range of options. Enjoy a meal with a view at restaurants like Kalsang Friends Corner or Little Llama Café, which serve delicious Tibetan and international cuisines.

And to embrace this quaint hill station, we kept our two warm homes ready with all amenities and vibrant vibes. Book any hostels in Mussoorie and enjoy a gala time there.

Quick facts:

• Rishikesh to Mussoorie: approx 73 km and takes around 2 to 3 hrs
• Prominent halting places: Haridwar
• Things to cover in Rishikesh: Ram Jhula, Lakshman Jhula, Ganga Ghat, evening Ganga Aarti, Triveni Ghat, Beatles Ashram
• Things to cover in Mussoorie: Kempty Waterfall, Bhatta Waterfall, Lal Tibba, ropeway to Gun Hill, Library Chowk
• Weather in Rishikesh during monsoon: 19℃ to 33℃ with heavy rainfall
• Weather in Mussoorie during monsoon: 20℃ to 30℃ with heavy rainfall

Pro tip

As the rainy season elevates these regions with its magic spell, it’s also essential to take utmost precautions while travelling. If you are travelling by road, keep an eye on official government advisories to be informed of road closures or landslides. Water bodies can also become rowdy during this season, so we recommend taking utmost care while exploring lakes, waterfalls and rivers. And if you’re participating in any outdoor adventure activities, wear all your safety gear and take all precautions as instructed. It's best to be well informed about the weather of the region you are visiting during the monsoon.

So we are saying…

Without further delay, plan your trip and pack your bag before the monsoon season bids adieu. Don’t worry about your pocket. We got your back! 

If you're planning ahead anyway, it might be worth checking out The Hosteller's Early Bird Discount, which offers savings on bookings made at least 7 days in advance, making the season feel a little kinder on the wallet too.

So, why wait? Book your stay now with The Hosteller and make this monsoon one to remember.