Kerala, often referred to as “God’s Own Country,” is a mesmerizing state in the southwestern part of India. Known for its lush green landscapes, serene backwaters, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural heritage, Kerala is a popular tourist destination throughout the year. However, visiting Kerala during the monsoon season is a unique experience that offers a different perspective on this enchanting state. The monsoon season in Kerala typically lasts from June to September, and during this time, the state comes alive with vibrant greenery, gushing waterfalls, and a refreshing atmosphere. In this article, we will explore seven must-visit places in Kerala during the monsoon season, each offering its own distinct charm and beauty.

1. Munnar: The Tea Gardens

Munnar, a picturesque hill station located in the Western Ghats, is one of the top monsoon destinations in Kerala. The monsoon transforms this region into a lush, green paradise. The hill slopes are covered with neatly manicured tea gardens that glisten with raindrops, creating a stunning visual spectacle. The misty mountains, rolling hills, and cool, crisp air make Munnar an ideal destination for nature lovers and honeymooners alike.

Exploring Munnar during the Monsoon:

• Tea Plantations: Take a guided tour of tea estates like Tata Tea Museum, Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, and Lockhart Tea Museum to learn about the tea-making process and enjoy panoramic views of the tea gardens.
• Eravikulam National Park: Witness the monsoon magic at Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. The park’s biodiversity is at its peak during the monsoon season.
• Attukal Waterfalls: Visit the mesmerizing Attukal Waterfalls, which are in full flow during the monsoon. The lush surroundings and gushing water make for a fantastic sight.

2.Alleppey (Alappuzha): The Backwaters

Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, is renowned for its serene backwaters, intricate network of canals, and traditional houseboats. While it’s a popular destination year-round, experiencing Alleppey during the monsoon season offers a unique charm as the backwaters brim with life, and the rain adds a soothing touch to the atmosphere.

Exploring Alleppey during the Monsoon:

• Houseboat Cruises: Rent a traditional houseboat and embark on a serene journey through the backwaters. The raindrops falling on the water’s surface create a mesmerizing experience.
• Vembanad Lake: Explore the largest lake in Kerala, Vembanad Lake, and witness the beauty of the interconnected canals and lush green paddy fields.
• Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race: If your visit coincides with August, don’t miss the exhilarating Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race, a major event in Alleppey’s calendar.

3. Wayanad: The Rainforest Retreat

Wayanad, located in the Western Ghats, is a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The monsoon season transforms Wayanad into a lush rainforest with dense foliage, mist-covered mountains, and cascading waterfalls.

Exploring Wayanad during the Monsoon:

• Chembra Peak: Embark on a trek to Chembra Peak, which is at its most beautiful during the monsoon. The heart-shaped lake on the way adds a touch of romance to the experience.

• Meenmutty Falls: Visit Meenmutty Falls, one of the largest waterfalls in Kerala, to witness the raw power of nature as the monsoon rains feed the falls.
• Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary: Explore the Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary to spot elephants, leopards, and various bird species amidst the lush greenery.

4.Kochi (Cochin): The Coastal Charmer

Kochi, a historic port city on the Arabian Sea, offers a unique blend of colonial heritage, cultural richness, and coastal beauty. During the monsoon, Kochi takes on a different hue, with rain-kissed streets and a rejuvenated atmosphere

 Exploring Kochi during the Monsoon

Fort Kochi Explore the major Fort Kochi area with its social armature, art galleries, and antique thoroughfares lined with fascinating cafes.

Chinese Fishing Nets Watch the traditional Chinese fishing nets in action along the seacoast. The thunderstorm background makes for stunning photos.

Kathakali Performances Witness a traditional Kathakali cotillion performance, which is frequently held in Kochi. The various makeup and costumes come alive in the soft thunderstorm light.

5. Thekkady The Wildlife Sanctuary

Thekkady, located in the Periyar National Park, is a lush, green sanctuary known for its wildlife, including mammoths, barracuda , and colorful raspberry species. The thunderstorm season brings life to the timbers, making it an ideal time for wildlife suckers.

Exploring Thekkady during the Monsoon

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary Go for a jungle safari in the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can spot mammoths and other wildlife amidst the lush verdure.

voyaging on Periyar Lake Take a boat lift on Periyar Lake, girdled by thick timbers. The rain adds a mystical touch to the experience.

Spice Colonies Visit spice colonies in the area to learn about the civilization of spices like cardamom, pepper, and cloves.

6. Kovalam The Beach Retreat

Kovalam, known for its pristine strands and riverside resorts, is a popular littoral destination in Kerala. While it’s an ideal sand flight throughout the time, the thunderstorm season offers a different sand experience with lower crowded props and stimulating rain showers.

Exploring Kovalam during the Monsoon

Lighthouse Beach Relax on Lighthouse Beach, named after the iconic Vizhinjam Lighthouse. The rain- kissed beach and swells produce a tranquil setting.

Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium Explore the Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium, which is a great place to learn about the marine life set up in the Arabian Sea.

Ayurvedic gyms Treat yourself to invigorating Ayurvedic gym treatments available at numerous resorts in Kovalam.

7.Athirappilly and Vazhachal The Waterfall Duo

Athirappilly and Vazhachal falls, located in Thrissur quarter, are frequently appertained to as the” Niagara Falls of India.” These majestic falls are at their most emotional during the thunderstorm season, with water slinging down from great heights amidst lush verdure.

Exploring Athirappilly and Vazhachal during the Monsoon

Athirappilly Waterfall Visit Athirappilly Waterfall and take in the stirring sight of water plunging from a height of 80 bases. The girding rainforest adds to the appeal.

Vazhachal Waterfall Continue your trip to Vazhachal Waterfall, which is inversely emotional and girdled by thick timbers. It’s an ideal spot for nature walks.

Sholayar Rainforest Explore the Sholayar Rainforest, which is home to different foliage and fauna. The thunderstorm season brings out the vibrant colors and life of the timber.

In conclusion, Kerala is a destination like no other, and passing it during the thunderstorm season offers a unique and magical experience. From the lush tea auditoriums of Munnar to the serene backwoods of Alleppey, the rain- kissed timbers of Wayanad, and the littoral beauty of Kochi, each place in Kerala has its own charm to offer during the thunderstorm. So, if you are a nature nut, adventurer, or simply seeking a peaceful flight, do not miss the occasion to explore Kerala in all its thunderstorm glory.