The monsoon kicks in India in July. The heavens open up on the coastal areas and Indo-Gangetic plains of India. As the rains pelt down, it is time to head to the hill stations in the Himalayas and the Western Ghats to enjoy a relaxing holiday.
So, are you looking to travel to India in July, but you are worried it might not be the right time?
Fret not. There are options, so many of them!
Here is a list of the best places to visit in India in the month of July.
This is a diverse list that covers many regions of India. So if you are on business in Delhi, Mumbai or Kolkata and want to combine some pleasure and vacation to go with it after the business is done, we have listed down easily accessible options for all parts of India.
Top Places To Visit In India In July
1. Gulmarg, Kashmir
GULMARG is derived from Persian words. ‘Gul’ means flower and ‘Marg’ means meadow. Gulmarg is a popular hill station in the Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir, only 30 miles from the capital city of Srinagar.
According to Conde Nast, Gulmarg is “the heartland of winter sports in India.” This region is situated at a height of 2,650 meters (8,690ft) above sea level. It receives heavy snow. During winter Gulmarg becomes one of India’s biggest destinations for winter sports like skiing and tobogganing.
The world’s highest green golf course—THE GULMARG GOLF COURSE— (2,650m) and Cable Car (the Gulmarg Gondola) are also located here.
Your family and kids will love this. The highest cable car in the world, GULMARG GANDOLA, is located here. It offers you views of the surrounding PIR PANJAL mountains and meadows.
Need a wish fulfilled? The MAHARANI TEMPLE was built by the Dogra Maharaja of Kashmir, Hari Singh for his wife Maharani Mohini in 1915. It is dedicated to Lord SHIVA and PARVATI. It is a good place to visit. Say a prayer at the temple.
If you are a fan of palaces, explore the PALACE OF MAHARAJA HARI SINGH. It was built in the 19th century. Visit the British-era ST. MARY’S CHURCH. It is known for its Victorian architecture. It was built in 1902.
If you love your Golf, then a round at the world’s highest Golf Course will be the one to remember. Explore the GULMARG BIOSPHERE RESERVE as it is home to the Himalayan Brown Bears, Musk Deer and a wide range of other flora and fauna. Visit THE GULMARG BOTANICAL GARDENS that hosts a wide range of Himalayan plants and flowers.
2. Pahalgam, Kashmir
Another place we definitely recommend is the beautiful “VALLEY OF SHEPHARDS” in Kashmir called Pahalgam.
One of the main reasons Pahalgam is famous in the country is that this Tehsil is where the base-camp for the Amarnath YATRA is located. The pilgrimage (YATRA) to Amarnath is considered one of the most important acts in the Hindu faith.
THERE ARE SO MANY THINGS YOU CAN DO IN PAHALGAM.
If you are the kind that loves quiet serene rivers, the LIDDER RIVER that goes through the Pahalgam Valley adds extra charm to the landscape of Pahalgam. You can fish for trout in the river. You can also go on white water rafting adventures or simply enjoy a riverside picnic experience.
You can also visit the nearby BETAAB VALLEY, which is also a famous tourist spot.
3. Ladakh
The “Land of High Passes” Ladakh is bordered by Tibet Autonomous Region to the east and Arunachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir to the South. Ladakh prides itself on its rich Buddhist heritage and stunning landscape.
Visit the legendary PANGONG LAKE which is famous for changing its color depending upon the time of the day and time of the year you visit. The clear bright sunlight strikes against the surrounding steep hills and water of the lake to produce a unique and ever-changing mesmerizing visual effect.The super hit Bollywood movie ‘3 Idiots’ climaxing at the amazing PANGONG TSO LAKE made it even more famous. The release of this blockbuster hit movie in 2009 unleashed a wave of tourism influx in the region.
Like the famous Valley of Flowers in Uttarakhand, there is an otherworldly VALLEY OF FLOWERS IN LADAKH as well, called NUBRA. Be sure to not miss out on a chance to see it.
While you are in Nubra Valley, riding the double-humped Bactrian camels that have been the primary mode of transportation in this part of the world for centuries is a good idea.
Ladakh is a land of Buddhist faith and culture. What you should do is to go on a Gompa (Buddhist Monastery) Tour to THIKSEY AND DISKIT MONASTERIES.
The capital city of Ladakh, LEH has many important centers of cultural, historical, and heritage significance. Do take the time out to visit THE SHANTI STUPA, LEH PALACE, GURUDWARA PATHAR SAHIB, ALCHI MONASTERY, THE LAMAYURU MONASTERY AND THE HALL OF FAME.
4. Chakrata, Uttarakhand
To the Himalayas again!
The British Raj liked building “cantonment” towns in the hills of the Himalayas. These towns provided an escape from the heat of the plain in the summer months. They also served as training centers for officers and recruits.
CHAKRATA was established as a cantonment in 1869. It is an off-beat hill station which lies at junction of the Yamuna and Tons Rivers. It is located at an average height of 2,118 meters above sea level. The valley is filled with rhododendrons, oaks and conifers that are ideal for nature walks.
Chakrata is located 50 miles from the capital city of DEHRADUN via Mussoorie. It means that you can also enjoy a stopover at the “Queen of Hills” MUSSOORIE, a more popular and bigger hill station in Uttarakhand.
We recommend visiting TIGER FALLS (8 miles from the town center). With an elevation of 312 feet it is the highest waterfall in Uttarakhand. Another place we recommend is the MOIL DANDA (Budher) meadow that is situated at a height of 2,800 meters. It is also the site of ancient limestone caves.
What else can you do?
You can talk nature walk the KANASAR Deodar Forest (12 miles from Chakrata) and hike to the CHILMIRI SUNSET POINT and DEOBAN POINT to get views of the valley.
5. Dharamshala
DHARAMSHALA is located in the KANGRA region (Himachal Pradesh). The Dalai Lama, leader of Tibetan Buddhism, lives in MCLEOD GANJ, an outskirt of Dharamshala city.
The word Dharamshala comes from the Sanskrit root ‘Dharam’ which means faith or way and ‘shala’ means ‘the abode of’.
This hill station is located at a height of 1,457 m (4,780ft) above sea level. It is a popular tourist destination in the summer and monsoon months.
We recommend you visit and say a quiet prayer at the Protestant ST. JOHN IN THE WILDERNESS CHURCH built during the British Raj. If you love your cricket, make sure to watch a game of cricket in the picturesque HIMACHAL PRADESH CRICKET STADIUM.
There is so much Buddhist spirituality to bless yourself within Dharamshala. Visit the TSUGLAGKHANG COMPLEX, DALAI LAMA TEMPLE, AND NAMGYAL MONASTERY. The Tushita Meditation Center is a good place for some quiet introspection.
You can explore Buddhist history and culture at the NORBULINGKA INSTITUTE dedicated to the preservation of Tibetan Buddhism. Another fun outdoor activity is to visit the BHAGSUNAG WATERFALL.
6. West Sikkim (Gyalshing District)
Located in—you guessed it! — the west of the northeastern state of Sikkim, this part of Sikkim is famous for its breathtaking Himalayan landscape, and views of India’s tallest mountain KANCHENJUNGA.
WEST SIKKIM is now officially known as the GYALSHING OR GEYZING District. It is located at a height of 1,900 meters (6,500 ft) above sea level.
JULU is most perfect time to visit the state of Sikkim, which is known for its snow-capped mountains, lush green valleys, Buddhist influences and indigenous cultures.
The town of PELLING in West Sikkim get a lot of visitors in the summer months due to its proximity to the Kanchenjunga.
The historical town of YUKSOM nearby was the former capital of the Sikkim region. The mantle is now taken by GANGTOK. Yuksom is particularly popular with Trekkers for its DZONGRI-GOECHA LA TREK.
Another important tourist attraction in the region is the KHECHEOPALRI LAKE that is considered sacred by the Buddhist people and is considered to have wish-fulfilling properties.
We recommend that you enjoy the landscape. Slow down, relax, and unwind. Do not rush it. Follow it up with a visit to the old town of YUKSOM, the ancient capital of Sikkim. Then drive up to PELLING to get exclusive views of Mount Kanchenjunga. When that is done, go on a GOMPA (Monastery) Tour to the famous PEMAYANGTSE and TASHINDING Monasteries.
There is so much more!
Visit the ruins of RABDENTSE, once the capital of the Sikkim region ravaged by invasion.
Savor the local delights of Sikkim. We recommend Momos, Thukpa (Noodle Soup), Sel Roti (rice bread) and Sha Phaley (minced meat snacks).
7. Cherranpunji, Meghalaya
Cherranpunji is described as the “WETTEST PLACE ON EARTH”. It holds the record for receiving most rain in one calendar year in recorded history.
Also known as SOHRA this little gem nestled in the East Khasi Hills of the district of the same name in the Northeastern Indian State of Meghalaya comes to life in the monsoon season in July.
Perched at a height of 1,430 (4,690 ft), the landscape of the region is characterized by high rainfall, cascading all-year-round waterfalls, lush green hills and the famous “Living Root Bridges.”
Are you a spelunking (cave exploration) enthusiast? Then you must explore MAWSMAI CAVES. The caves have intricate passageways and underground rock formations.
For some love of nature and waterfalls, visit the NOHKALIKAI AND NOHSNGITHIANG (SEVEN SISTERS) FALLS.
KHASI people have inhabited this region for hundreds of years. Learn about their unique way of life, customs and tradition by spending a day in a Khasi village. The Khasi people have developed their form of engineering wherein tree roots of Rubber Fig trees are trained to form bridges over streams and waterways. This unique phenomenon is called “Living Root Bridges.”
8. Malshej Ghat, Maharashtra
It gets quite wet, humid and hot in Mumbai in July. The WESTERN GHATS Mountain range therefore offers the best escape from the heat of MUMBAI, PUNE, NAGPUR, AURANGABAD and KOHLAPUR and other low-lying regions of Maharashtra.
Perched at an average height of 700 meters above sea level, the MALSHEJ GHAT hill station is located 87 miles from the city of Mumbai.
A dense lush green hill station, Malshej Ghat is particularly famous for its bird diversity during the monsoon season. Migratory birds like flamingos, cranes and egrets make their way here and flock around the PIMPALGAON JODA Dam area.
For history buffs, the nearby birthplace of the Maharashtra hero Shivaji Maharaj, the SHIVNERI FORT holds extra allure.
Birdwatchers should keep an eye out for flamingos that arrive here in the month of July and August. The best birdwatching happens at the PIMPALGAON JODA DAM.
Trek to the old HARISHCHANDRAGAD FORT which is located on top of a hill near the famous Konkan Kada viewpoint.
9. Panchgani, Maharastra
Another exquisite Maharashtra hill station that you should consider visiting is PANCHGANI in the SATARA District. An all year round destination that is also famous for its boarding schools, it is located 155 miles from Mumbai.
Panchgani is located close to another popular Maharashtra hill station, MAHABALESHWAR, which is known as the “Strawberry Capital of India.” When you are in Panchgani,you can get to enjoy two hill stations in one go.
Are you a fan of Bollywood? TABLE LAND PLATEAU, second largest mountain plateau in Asia that also has a small lake is located here. The Table Land has been the site of many famous Indian movies like Taare Zameen Par, Raja Hindustani and Mela.
Visit the Mapro Garden, famous all over India for its strawberry production. It is located in the village of Gureghar, a short drive from Panchgani.
Explore the RAJPURI CAVES which are said to have been the refuge for PANDAVAS during their exile. The Pandavas were the five legendary brothers who were the central figures in the epic Mahabharata.
There is more! In adjacent MAHABALESHWAR, you can go on Strawberry plantation tours, nature walks along the VENNA LAKE and waterfall tours.
10. Goa
India’s most popular beach town, Goa is an all-year-round popular holiday destination located on the southwestern coast of India. It is India’s smallest and richest state with a 100-mile-long coastline that boasts picturesque silver-sand beaches.
The Portuguese arrived here in the 16th century to trade with the Mughal empire and establish a trading colony here as the one-might Mughal empire withered. Goa is now famous not just for its beaches but also for its unique history and culture that is a fusion of Middle Age Portugal and old-world Hindustan. The old city settlement of “VELHA GOA” is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features many historical landmarks like the 500-year-old CHAPORA FORT.
July is monsoon season in Goa which adds a unique ambiance to the coastline. You can combine a beach holiday with heritage trails, nightclub hopping, parties and food tours to make the most of the Goan experience.
Hotels and resorts are fine, but what you need to do in Goa is to check yourself into an exclusive beachfront villa with a slice of beach paradise to yourself.
When was the last time you treated yourself well? Treat yourself to some ‘Me Time’. Some of India’s finest luxury hotels are located in Goa which leaves you spoiled for choice. Don’t mind splurging. You have earned it!
With popular games like high-end Roulette, Black Jack, Baccarat and other board games, Goa is famous for its gambling scene. Another important tourist attraction is guided tours of the Portuguese countryside to explore the native villages and interact with the locals. Weather permitting you can also indulge in water sports adventures like scuba diving and deep sea diving,
11. Pondicherry
The former French Colonial trading outpost of Pondicherry is located on the southeastern coast of India. The erstwhile “French Capital of India” is famous for its beaches, Ashram (holy communities) and old churches.
Before the arrival of the French in the 16th century, Pondicherry was an important trading town for the PALLAVA (325-900 AD), CHOLA (900-1279 AD) and the VIJAYANAGAR EMPIRE (1370-1614 AD). This combination of the perfect tropical coastline of palm-lined white-sand beaches and rich history makes Pondicherry a unique tourist destination.
Here is what we think you should do in Pondicherry!
We recommend that you begin by Exploring the timeless charm of the FRENCH QUARTER, the oldest colonial neighborhood which is dotted with elegant buildings like the Raj Niwas (residence of the Governor), the French War Memorial and the Statue of Dupleix.
Then treat yourself to some luxury Check at the famous luxurious Pondicherry beach retreats and enjoy the clear blue skies, the white sand beaches, the gentle breeze and a state-of-the-art resort experience.
Visit the famous AUROVILLE, a unique experimental township built in the vision of the famed spiritual guru Sri Aurobindo (1872-1950 AD). It is located 6 miles outside of the city center on the border between Pondicherry and Tamil Nadu. It is open to men and women of all faiths, colors and races.
The Ousteri Lake is home to 40 bird species including the Black Tailed Godwit, Egrets, Storks, Pied avocet and Greater Flamingos.
12. Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Officially known as Udhagamandalam, but popular as Ooty, this serene hill station in Tamil Nadu is located 80 miles from the City of Palaces, Mysore.
Ooty is famed for its off-beat hill station charm, botanical gardens, “Toy Train” ride, lush green mountains, and plantation tours to its spice, tea and coffee plantations.
There are so many nature-related activities that you can do in Ooty. Serenade on the side of the tranquil Ooty Lake. Enjoy picnics, go on walks and ride the boats in the lake. Explore the famous OOTY BOTANICAL GARDEN. Hike up to the highest mountain in the Nilgiris mountains, DODDABETTA PEAK.
The East India Company that introduced tea plantations in the region left behind many colonial heritage buildings. The St. Stephen Church is one of most important buildings from that era. We also recommend you visit the famous Catherine Waterfall which is one of the major attractions in Ooty.
Another thing we recommend is tea plantation tour to learn about the process of tea plantation and enjoy freshly-brewed tea.
13. Coorg, Karnataka
The beautiful hill station of Coorg is nestled on the Western Ghat Mountain Range in the state of Maharashtra. Coorg is known for its valleys, waterfall, mountains, coffee plantation and serenity.
A great getaway in the monsoon months, Coorg is ideal for a laid-back holiday with your loved ones.
We recommend that the first thing you should do is what the Rajas of Coorgs used to do. Visit the famous Raja’s Seat, a high-altitude vantage point on a hilltop from where the Kings of Coorg enjoyed a view of the valley. Take a plantation tour and learn about the process of coffee making. Enjoy a hot cup of coffee made from fresh produce. Afterwards, visit the DUBARE ELEPHANT CAMP and get to watch these amazing creatures up close. Explore the Madikeri Fort, one of the oldest landmarks in this part of Karnataka.
14. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
TAWANG is situated at a height of 3,048 meters in the northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh. Tawang is the most famous tourist destination in the state of Arunachal Pradesh.
THIS CAPITAL CITY is famous for its mountainous beauty as well as its Buddhist heritage and culture.
TAWANG WAR MEMORIAL is a memorial dedicated to the soldiers who have their lives in the 1962 Indo-China War. You must pay your respect here. We also recommend that you visit the picturesque MADHURI LAKE.
If you are fond of high-altitude mountain passes, then visit the Sela Paas and Bum La Pass. Say a prayer at the Tawang Buddhist Monastery. Visit the NURANANG FALLS.
15. Shillong, Meghalaya
If you are in the northeastern parts of India, then the capital of the state of Meghalaya is a must-see destination. It is known as the “SCOTLAND OF THE EAST” due to its resemblance with the Scottish Highlands.
SHILLONG is the last of the KHASI people. This part of India is known for its ancient tribes, especially the Khasi tribal people. The ancient rituals, traditions and custom add an extra layer of appeal to a visit to Shillong.
One of the biggest attraction here is the ELEPHANT FALLS. The UMIAM LAKE also draws a lot of visitors throughout the year due to its soothing calmness and beauty. You can also pay a visit to the CATHEDRAL OF MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS that was built during the Raj era.
The SHILLONG VIEW POINT—another popular place to visit— gives you excellent views of the valley.
Finally you can pay a visit to the DON BOSCO MUSEUM to understand the history of the region.
