Best Places to Visit Near Bangalore in the Monsoon Season

The grey skies, the sound of the downpour, the bellowing thunder, roaring rivers, gushing waterfalls, and an abundance of freshness in the air, means only one thing – it is monsoon season! With the summers nearing its end, you may be looking forward to welcoming the rains with open arms, right? 

Well, how about planning a family trip to get away from the city chaos and enjoy a peaceful time in the laps of nature. If you are a local Bangalore resident, you would know that the city’s consistent cool weather makes the rest of the country go green with envy and locals proud.  But with the arrival of the rains, Bangalore and the nearby regions become greener and even more alluring for the tourists. 

The rains cast a beautiful spell in and around the city and enlivens the already picture-perfect landscape and make it more endearing for the enthusiastic travellers. So, whether you are local or a tourist in Bangalore, there are several places to visit near Bangalore during monsoon that are sure to give you an enriching and memorable holiday experience. 

Whether you are looking for a quick weekend getaway destination or want to enjoy an elaborate vacation in the country or on the hills, the options are aplenty. So, without any further ado, let’s get started. 

Places to Visit During Monsoon Near Bangalore

1. Shivanasamudra Falls

Distance from Bangalore – 130 kms (approx.)

Waterfalls are a common sight during rains. The view of the gushing waters from a height is always a visual treat and soothing to the mind. And, Shivanasamudra is no ordinary waterfall; it is one of the most popular sightseeing attractions near Bangalore during monsoon and an excellent spot to go on a one-day trip from Bangalore.

As this naturally formed waterfall on the Kaveri River gushes down the mountain, it splits into two streams, creating a small island in between. The stream on the eastern side is called Bharachukki and the stream on the western side is called Gaganachukki. 

As surreal as the sight of the Shivanasamudra waterfalls is, its name has an interesting meaning. As per the locals here, the falls’ name literally translates to ‘Shiva’s Sea.’ The falls cascades down from a height of about 200 feet, and discharges about 6.6 million cubic feet of water per second during the monsoon season. 

2. Brindavan Garden, Mysore

Distance from Bangalore – 142 km (approx.)

Mysore is a beautiful city close to Bangalore that is known for two things – the great Mysore Palace, and Sandalwood industry. In fact, the city has the biggest Sandalwood industry in the country. Besides, there are many other wonderful tourist attractions here that lure travellers from far and wide. 

One such popular attraction here is the Brindavan Gardens. It is also one of the most popular weekend getaways from Bangalore. Located in the Mandaya district, close to the Krishnarajasagar Dam, the garden is considered to be an engineering marvel for its symmetrical designs. 

The design of the garden is known to be heavily influenced by the Shalimar Gardens in Kashmir; the Brindavan Garden is embellished with lush greenery that seem more endearing during the rains. The patches of tall and towering trees, and arrays of beautiful seasonal flowers and shrubs besides waterways and streams create a mesmerizing sight.

The main attraction at the garden is the Light Show and the fountains that operate purely on air and water pressure. After the sun goes down, the Garden is illuminated in attractive lights and the fountain waters start dancing to the beats of the music; it is a wonderful spectacle that you must not miss. 

Where to stay in Mysore?

You can have the best Mysore sightseeing experienced by staying at Golden Landmark Resort, a premium retreat offered by Club Mahindra. 

3. Coorg

Distance from Bangalore – 242 km (approx.)

Nestled in the Western Ghats Mountain ranges, Coorg is one of the most popular hill stations near Bangalore in Karnataka. It is one of the favourite places to visit during monsoon near Bangalore for the locals and the tourists alike for a good reason. This beautiful hill town is endowed with some of the most scenic landscapes you will find in the country. 

The sights of evergreen spice plantations, majestic valleys, gushing waterfalls and many other exotic attractions in the region are a cynosure to the eye. Apart from exploring the natural wonders and beautiful viewpoints in the town, what makes the city a wonderful holiday spot for families and couples alike is the serene vibe it boasts. 

The pleasant weather, which is only accentuated during the monsoon season, allows you to retreat in the hills, enjoy a relaxing time with your family and fully rejuvenate before getting back to the normal city routine. Besides, the place has to offer something for everyone, from children to old-aged, everyone will find something interesting to do. 

Also, Coorg or Kodagu, as the locals call it, is known to have a delightful culinary heritage, and the cuisine here is known to be epic. So, when you go on a holiday to Coorg, make sure that you get a taste of the local delicacies like Pandi Curry, Noolputtu, to name a few. 

Where to stay in Coorg?

If you are planning an elaborate holiday in Coorg for 3-5 days or more, you can book your stay at one of the premium resorts in Coorg offered by Club Mahindra, i.e., Club Mahindra Virajpet or Club Mahindra Madikeri. 

4. Ooty, Tamil Nadu

Distance from Bangalore – 265 km (approx.)

A popular hill station in Tamil Nadu, Ooty has a reputation for having a cool and pleasant climate all through the year, but the arrival of the rains makes the environment even better. Not to mention, the landscape here is replete with greenery everywhere and it comes alive with the first drop of the rains, making it one of the best places to visit near Bangalore during monsoon for a family holiday. 

Apart from the scenic beauty and tea plantations, Ooty is also known for being home to the Nilgiri Mountain Railway. While you are here, make sure that you take a ride on the toy train. It is one of the major tourist attractions and it is sure to give you an unforgettable experience. 

The train ride takes you on a beautiful journey through the hills and tea plantations, giving you a surreal view of the valleys, and the mystic peaks. And as you look out the window, a cool tea-scented breeze ruffles your hair, and the showers tingle your senses. 

Where to stay in Ooty?

There are many sightseeing attractions in Ooty, and you may need at least 3-4 days to explore them all comfortably. Besides, when you are in Ooty, you ought to try the local food, which are divine. You can enjoy visiting the popular as well as the lesser-known tourist places and get the best culinary experience by staying at Club Mahindra Danish Villa or Club Mahindra Derby Green, the most premium resorts in Ooty.

Both the resorts have spacious rooms, premium amenities and offer a variety of experiences curated specially for you to spend time with your loved ones, strengthen your bond with them while having fun.  

5. Hogenakkal Falls

Distance from Bangalore – 126 km (approx.)

One of the most mesmerising falls in the country, Hogenakkal Falls is located about 126 kms from the main Bangalore city. The falls, which originate from the Cauveri River, gets its name from two Kannada words, which means ‘smoking rocks.’

Apart from its fierce gush, and scenic beauty, the falls draw many tourists from all over the country because it is believed that the water from the falls has healing properties. The falls’ have been used as a backdrop for many Indian movies. 

While you spend time staring at the beauty of the falls and taking in the mesmerising surrounding view, make sure that you make time to visit one of the massage centres near the falls. One of the unique things about these centres is that the masseurs and the masseuses give a massage on the flat rocks that are indigenous to the region and found near the rocks. 

These rocks are known to have special health traits and the masseurs use special massage techniques to help you relax, alleviate the pain and niggles and make you feel fully rejuvenated. 

6. Kudremukh Hills

Distance from Bangalore – 331 km (approx.)

Many people prefer going to a hill station during the monsoon season. If you have the same idea, one of the best places to visit in monsoon near Bangalore is Kudremukh hills. One of the lowkey hill towns in Karnataka, Kudremukh is located in the Chikkamagaluru district and nestled peacefully at a height of about 1900 metres above sea level. 

Sprawling over a wide area, Kudremukh boasts varied and surreal landscapes that are a treat to the sore eyes. While the weather in this hill is cooler than the city, it becomes even more pleasant in the rain. Also, the thick green cover around the town makes it a beautiful location to relax and unwind and feel closer to mother nature. 

The name ‘Kudremukh’ literally translates to ‘Horse Face,’ and the town gets its name because of the hill’s striking resemblance to the face of a horse from one side. Whether you are looking to relax or indulge in some fun, outdoor and adventurous activities, Kudremukh meets all your needs. 

There are many awesome trekking trails here and based on your expertise, you can explore the easy or difficult trail. Rest assured all the trails give you an amazing trekking experience as you scale up the hills through the thick cover of greenery. If you are visiting with your family and kids, you can go on a nature walk and get wonderfully lost in the beauty of the land. 

7. Yercaud, Tamil Nadu

Distance from Bangalore – 230 km (approx.)

Located in the verdant hills of Tamil Nadu, Yercaud is a gorgeous and quaint hill town that is known for its lush greenery. The town receives moderate rainfall during the monsoon season from July to September with occasional heavy showers, making it one of the best places to visit near Bangalore during monsoon for a relaxing holiday with your family, or spouse. 

As you explore the surreal landscapes of this beautiful town during monsoon, you can get lost in the lush green jungles of the Eastern Ghats, and the luxuriant fields. You can also go on a fun and adventurous expedition to spot the local wildlife in the jungles and watch animals like deer, foxes and bison roaming freely in their natural habitat. 

Among the several sightseeing attractions in the town, you must definitely include the botanical gardens in your itinerary. The garden houses more than 250 species of orchids, including some of the rarest and the most endangered species. Another must-do family activity in Yercaud for a fun holiday experience is to go picnicking near the Yercaud Lake and go boating in the evening to enjoy a delightful view of the sunset. All-in-all, there is no shortage of fun in Yercaud during monsoon season. 

8. Nandi Hills

The best places to visit in Bangalore during monsoon season cannot be complete without Nandi Hills. Every local’s favourite, it is a popular weekend getaway spot to chill and relax in the hills, admiring the amazing views around. The picture-perfect landscape and the serene vibe of this place not only attracts families and couples but also bikers, as they enjoy riding to the top of the hill. The thrill of riding through the curvy roads makes it an exciting journey for them. 

The place is also quite a hit among hardcore trekking enthusiasts as there are many trails in the area. Some even trek up to the Nandi hills from the base village. While the trek up through the winding trails and rough terrain is made only difficult by the rain, once you reach the top, the stunning view will ease all your pain and tiredness instantly. If you are not a big fan of trekking, you can also set up camps here on the hills and spend a relaxing night amidst nature and under the blanket of stars. Make sure you carry all the necessary items to keep you safe and protected from rains. If the weather is clear, you can set up a bonfire and a barbecue on top and enjoy a night of merrymaking. 

So, now you know about the best places to visit during monsoon near Bangalore, which of these places are you excited about the most? No matter where you go, make sure to enjoy the rains, get outdoors and let nature work its magic.