Saturday, July 5, 2025
Indian monsoon, once considered a off-travel season, is slowly and steadily emerging as a season of exploration and discovery with rising numbers of travelers opting for getaways to escape peak-season hustle-bustle. According to India Holiday Report by SOTC and Thomas Cook, 85% of travelers will go for two or three holidays in a year and many of them are opting to take mini holidays by utilizing long weekends in monsoon season. Such a dynamic landscape of travelers’ choice is also symptomatic of a rising tendency to opt for relaxed off-travel holidays focused on nature, well-being, adventure, and culture.
Monsoon: The New Season of Exploration
The monsoon season is no longer about avoiding the rain; it’s become an opportunity to explore the country’s hidden gems while enjoying cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. Rain-washed landscapes, misty trails, and serene getaways are drawing travellers to destinations that are perfect for mini breaks during this season. According to experts from Thomas Cook and SOTC, monsoon travel offers excellent value with special deals and off-season pricing, making it an ideal time for spontaneous trips.
With an increasing number of millennials, Gen Z, families, and young professionals seeking shorter breaks during the monsoon, destinations like Ooty, Munnar, Coorg, Wayanad, and the Andamans are becoming popular choices. These destinations offer misty landscapes, cooler weather, and offbeat adventures like biking, hiking, and waterfall rappelling.
Spiritual Trails and Pilgrimages
Spiritual tourism continues to captivate travellers, especially during the monsoon, with several regions offering an escape to peaceful surroundings. Popular spiritual circuits like the Char Dham, 12 Jyotirlingas, Omkareshwar, and Rameswaram are attracting those seeking meaningful experiences combined with cooler weather and a quieter atmosphere. The monsoon’s calm and introspective environment makes it a perfect time for spiritual pilgrimages, where travellers can connect with their faith while enjoying the serenity that the season provides.
Rainy Season Safaris and Nature Stays
For nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers, the monsoon season offers a unique opportunity to explore India’s rich biodiversity. Safari destinations like Jawai Dam and Desert National Park in Rajasthan, Nagarhole and Bandipur in Karnataka, and the Sunderbans in West Bengal are increasingly in demand. The cooler weather and reduced crowds make these areas perfect for enjoying wildlife in its most vibrant and lush state.
Additionally, many travellers are choosing unique accommodations like floating cottages, eco-resorts, and treehouses, or planning treks to destinations like the Valley of Flowers in Uttarakhand. These nature escapes offer peace, tranquillity, and a deeper connection with the environment, making the monsoon season the perfect backdrop for wildlife safaris and nature stays.
Adventure, Wellness, and Scenic Getaways
The monsoon is also a time for adventure, with many travellers seeking misty treks, offbeat hikes, and activities like rafting, ziplining, and waterfall rappelling. For those seeking active breaks, destinations such as Ladakh, the Western Ghats, Kerala’s coastal belt, and Bhutan offer opportunities for thrilling adventures amidst stunning landscapes.
The monsoon’s serene atmosphere has also made it a popular time for wellness retreats. Ayurveda treatments in Kerala, luxury wellness getaways in Rishikesh, and yoga retreats in Gokarna are drawing travellers seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. These wellness escapes combine the calming influence of nature with therapeutic treatments, offering travellers an opportunity to recharge during the rainy season.
Road Trips and Cruises: The Monsoon Road Less Travelled
Road trips and “drive-cations” are another trend gaining traction during the monsoon. Destinations like Lonavala, Mahabaleshwar, Nashik, Mussoorie, and Rishikesh offer perfect settings for monsoon road trips, where the journey itself becomes a part of the adventure. The quiet roads, misty mountains, and vibrant green landscapes create a picturesque backdrop for travellers seeking a peaceful escape.
Cruise holidays are also on the rise, with popular destinations such as Singapore and Malaysia attracting monsoon travellers looking for an all-inclusive experience at sea. These cruises offer travellers the opportunity to explore new locations while enjoying the luxury and comfort of a cruise ship during the rainy season.
Great Deals and Discounts
Travellers looking to make the most of the monsoon season can benefit from special offers and discounts. Thomas Cook and SOTC are offering attractive deals such as “Buy One Get One Free” on select packages and the “TravSure” programme for a more flexible and secure travel experience. These offers help make monsoon getaways even more appealing for those looking to take advantage of the off-season pricing while exploring the country’s scenic beauty without the usual crowds.
Conclusion: Monsoon as a Season of Discovery
Indian monsoon season has transformed itself from an off-season and uneventful time of year to a season of discovery and adventure. Whether it is a spiritual quest, wildlife safari, spa escape, or adventurous trek, monsoon is a time to experience India in a completely different manner. Off-season tourists, gentle climate, and competitive deals have made monsoon an ideal time for mini breaks, short stays, and offbeat pursuits. As offbeat destinations and pursuits gain greater prominence on travelers’ radar, monsoon season has become a crucial time to experience India’s natural wonders, cultural treasures, and spiritual delights.
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