Coorg, Karnataka
Often called the ‘Scotland of India’, Coorg transforms into a verdant paradise during the monsoon. The coffee plantations are at their lushest, mist hangs heavy over the rolling hills, and the air is thick with the scent of wet earth and fresh coffee blossoms.
Camping here means waking up to breathtaking views shrouded in fog. Several campsites around Madikeri and Somwarpet offer organised experiences with basic amenities, which is ideal for beginners. You can spend your days on short treks to Abbey Falls or Raja's Seat, both of which are magnificent post-rainfall. Just be prepared for leeches; carrying salt or a sanitiser is a local trick to deal with them. A good waterproof tent and a warm sleeping bag are non-negotiable.
Malshej Ghat, Maharashtra
A favourite weekend getaway for residents of Mumbai and Pune, Malshej Ghat is a mountain pass in the Western Ghats that comes alive with hundreds of waterfalls during the monsoon. The experience of driving or hiking through clouds is common here. While wild camping right under a waterfall is risky and not advised, there are several plateaus and clearings nearby that offer spectacular views of the valleys and gushing streams. The area around the Pimpalgaon Joga Dam is a popular spot for setting up camp. You’ll be treated to a constant, soothing symphony of cascading water. Due to its popularity, it's best to visit on a weekday to avoid the crowds. Ensure your tent is securely pegged down as the winds can be quite strong.
Mawlynnong, Meghalaya
Venture to the Northeast to experience a monsoon unlike any other. Mawlynnong, famously known as 'Asia's Cleanest Village', offers a unique blend of nature and culture. Nestled in the East Khasi Hills, this region receives some of the heaviest rainfall in the country, resulting in an almost-unreal shade of green. You can camp near the village (with permission from the local authorities) and spend your days exploring the living root bridges, which are particularly sturdy and beautiful during the rains. The local Khasi community is warm and welcoming. Camping here is less about roughing it and more about immersing yourself in a serene, well-preserved environment. The journey itself, through cloud-covered roads, is an adventure. Pack synthetic, quick-drying clothes and a reliable rain cover for your backpack.
Kudremukh, Karnataka
For the seasoned trekker and camper, Kudremukh National Park presents a challenging yet rewarding monsoon experience. The name translates to 'horse face', referring to a picturesque side of a mountain. During the rains, the grasslands of Kudremukh are a vibrant, sweeping green, dotted with small streams and misty valleys. The trek to the peak is a bucket-list item for many, and camping is permitted at the forest department's designated areas with prior permission. This is not for the faint of heart; the terrain is slippery and the weather unpredictable. But the reward is unparalleled solitude and some of the most dramatic landscapes the Western Ghats have to offer. A sturdy, all-weather tent, high-quality rain gear, and waterproof hiking boots are absolutely essential for this adventure.
