Best places to visit in August in India

India is a beautiful country that features great diversity both in nature and culture. A country with a diverse culture and a melee of different ethnicities, India is well known for its colourful cities and quaint towns, which offer the perfect abode for tourists and travellers. August is a great time to visit India. In this month, the monsoons come to a close, and the weather stays relatively mild upto mid-November. The best places to visit in August in India include many destinations from beaches to hill stations. 

17 best places to visit in August in India you shouldn’t miss out on

Here is a list of some of the most popular places to visit in August. 

Places to visit in August #1: Munnar, Kerala

Source: Pinterest

Munnar is a popular resort town and hill station in the Idukki district of Kerala. Munnar lies in the lap of the Western Ghats and Roses around 1,600 metres above mean sea level. Munnar has an unparalleled beauty complete with lush green woods and beautiful hills. Also called the “Kashmir of South India,” this popular honeymoon destination is one of the best places to visit in August in India. The large tea estates with their green gardens are a major tourist attraction, drawing many tourists here during the summers. You can stay over at these tea estates and witness the beauty of the Western Ghats in person.

Nearest airport: Munnar doesn’t have its own airport. However, tourists can travel to the Cochin International Airport, which is only 110 km away from this hill station. A private taxi or an overnight bus will take you to Munnar from the airport.

Nearest railway station:- The Alwaye railway station is the closest railway link to Munnar. Tourists can reach this station from major cities in India and then take a government KSRTC bus or a private taxi which travels to Munnar.

 

Places to visit in August #2: Darjeeling, West Bengal

Source: Pinterest

Darjeeling is another major tourist destination located in West Bengal. Darjeeling Town is an extremely popular tourist spot due to its scenic beauty and enjoyable weather in August. The town is located on the Eastern Himalayas and lies at an average elevation of 2,045 metres. The picturesque roads which take people to Darjeeling town are a major attraction in the area. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and lush green forests, Darjeeling is the perfect summer resort to escape the city heat and crowd. You can take a toy train ride to and from Darjeeling to have a unique experience. The other notable places of interest nearby are Kalimpong, Lamahatta Park, Lepchajagat, Tinchuley, and Sandakphu.

 

Nearest airport:- To reach Darjeeling, one can travel to the Bagdogra Airport by air. This airport is nearest to Darjeeling town and the only air route available nearby. A shared taxi or a private vehicle can be taken to reach Darjeeling, which is located approximately 2.5 hours away from the airport. 

Nearest railway station:- New Jalpaiguri Railway Station is the closest railway station to Darjeeling. Countless trains reach this railway station from Kolkata and Alipurduar. You can opt for a toy train ride from this station upto Darjeeling Station, which travels through extremely picturesque roads. However, you can also opt for shared taxis and private vehicles which take much less time to reach.

 

Places to visit in August #3: Havelock Island, Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Source: Pinterest

Havelock Islands is a part of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in India. The island is known for its rich white sand and crystal clear blue beaches. Havelock can be called the Maldives of India and offers a beautiful coastal haven for tourists who love beaches. Havelock is also popular for its luxurious resorts, which offer an unmatched experience of coastal islands. You can take a luxury cruise ride around the islands and bask in the evening sunlight on these sapphire waters. The island also has a fair share of coral reefs and marine life, which can be explored by glass-bottomed boats. You can also participate in watersports like snorkelling and scuba diving at Havelock Island to make your trip more memorable. 

 

Nearest airport:- Havelock island does not have its own airport. The nearest airport is the Veer Savarkar International Airport which is located in Port Blair, the capital of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. A boat ride or ferry from Port Blair will take you to Havelock Islands.

Nearest port:- Since Havelock island does not have roadways connected to the mainland, the only way to reach it would be through the port at Port Blair. Regular ferry takes tourists to the island, and you can also opt for a private boat if you want to travel in luxury.

 

Places to visit in August #4: Ladakh

Source: Pinterest

Ladakh is a union territory located close to Jammu and Kashmir in India. Located from the Himalayan to the Kunlun ranges, Ladakh is also the highest plateau in India, with an elevation of over 3,000 m. The beautiful valleys are almost devoid of vegetation and are surrounded by mountains on all sides. Ladakh is a very popular spot for trekking and biking and continues to be one of the best places to visit in India in August. You can avail flight services to Ladhak and explore the area on cats or two-wheelers. Since Ladhak is a popular spot for bikers, you can also avail local bikes to tour the valley and spend the night at some humble homestays amidst the beautiful barren mountains.

 

Nearest airport:- Ladakh has an airport called the Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, which is well connected by domestic flights. A flight to Ladakh is regularly available from major airport cities in India. If you are travelling internationally, you can land at Delhi Airport and then take a connecting flight to Ladakh. 

Nearest railway station:- Since Ladakh is one of the highest towns in India, it is not connected to any railway station. The nearest station is the Jammu Tawi Railway Station which lies in the lowlands. The station is well connected with Delhi, and countless trains travel to this station everyday. A car ride will take you to Ladakh, but it takes a really long time to reach Ladakh by road.

 

Places to visit in August #5: Coorg, Karnataka

Source: Pinterest

Coorg is a hill station located in Karnataka and the ideal place to visit in August. The hill station lies in the Western Ghats and is surrounded by forests. The place is known for its scenic beauty and majestic waterfalls, which are spread out throughout the town. Also a great resort town, Coorg is known as the Scotland of India and is visited by many tourists all around the year. Major tourist attractions of this place are Talakaveri, Bhagamandala, Nisargadhama, Abbey Falls, Dubare, Nagarahole National Park, Iruppu Falls, and the Tibetan Buddhist Golden Temple. In August, the waterfalls in the Western Ghats are at their full capacity due to the rains, and the peaceful environment is perfect for a quick getaway from the city.

 

Nearest airport:- Coorg doesn’t have its own airport. However, people who want to travel by air can reach Mangalore International Airport, which is located about 140 km from Coorg. The airport is connected to major national and international cities. A private car or government bus from Mangalore airport will take you to the hill station.

Nearest railway station:- The nearest railway station to Coorg is Mysore Junction. This railway station is located at a distance of about 117 km from Coorg. A short ride in a private taxi will take you to Coorg from the railway station.

 

Places to visit in August #6: Cherrapunji, Meghalaya

Source: Pinterest

Cherrapunji is popular among tourists for being one of the wettest places in the world. Located in the northeast state of Meghalaya, Cherrapunji is most famous for its Nohkalikai Falls. Nohkalikai Falls, at 340 metres, is the tallest plunge waterfall in India. After the monsoons, the falls are at their full capacity and offer a spectacular view for all tourists who visit the place. From Cherrapunji, you can travel to other places and even come across the living root bridges, which are extremely rare to find in India. The amazing town is a haven for nature lovers and travel enthusiasts who like hiking expeditions and light trekking.

 

Nearest airport:- Guwahati Airport is the closest airport located near Cherrapunji. This airport is accessible by both international and domestic flights. It is well connected by major cities like Kolkata, Mumbai, Delhi, and Chennai. Flights from Bangladesh, Bangkok, Kathmandu, and Hong Kong also travel here frequently. 

Nearest railway station:- If you want to travel to Cherrapunji by rail, you need to reach Guwahati Railway Station in Assam. From here, you can take a cab or bus to reach Cherrapunji. Guwahati station is an important railway junction that receives trains from most of the major cities in India.

 

Places to visit in August #7: Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 

Source: Pinterest

Varanasi is an ancient city located in the middle-Ganges valley of Uttar Pradesh, India. Varanasi is also commonly known as Banaras or Kashi. The city is one of the most spiritual places for Hindus who continually flock to the city for prayer, funerals, and worship. Varanasi has a large number of historical sites like Aghor Peeth, the Alamgir Mosque, the Ashoka Pillar, the Dhanvantari Temple, the Durga Temple, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, the Ramnagar Fort, the Riverfront Ghats, and the Tulsi Manas Temple. Varanasi is also an important textile hub of India and continues to be the residence of countless Indian artisans. The Ganga aarti in the city and a shopping spree are two things that should not be missed in Varanasi.

 

Nearest airport:- Varanasi has its own airport called the Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport. This busy airport receives flights from India and abroad. Additionally, the airport is located close to city premises so there is no need to pay for expensive cab rides to reach your destination.

Nearest railway station:- The Varanasi Junction railway station is an important transport route for people travelling to Varanasi. The station is well connected to the rest of India and easily accessible. Regular trains from major Indian cities take tourists to this destination. 

 

Places to visit in August #8: Ellora Caves, Maharashtra 

Source: Pinterest

Ellora is located in the Sambhaji Nagar district of Maharashtra, India. Ellora is known as the largest rock-cut Hindu temple cave complex in the world and is even included among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Ideally, the best place to visit in August in India is the complex adorned with artwork dating back to 600–1000 CE. Cave 16 in Ellora contains the Kailash temple, the largest single monolithic rock excavation in the world.  These amazing artworks from ancient India have been preserved in these caves and are open for tourists to come and marvel at them. You can take a short hike to these caves and explore the premises to understand the skills of ancient Indian artists. 

 

Nearest airport:- The Chikalthana Airport of Aurangabad is located about 35.9 km away from Ellora Caves. This is the closest airport and can be reached within 40 minutes. The airport is connected by domestic flights from major Indian cities like Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai, Mumbai, and Kolkata. 

Nearest railway station:- The Daulatabad Railway Station is the only railway station located close to Ellora Caves. Located 16.8 km away, this station can be reached in under 30 minutes from Ellora. The station is well connected with Aurangabad and other parts of India.

 

Places to visit in August #9: Goa

Source: Pinterest

Goa is a state on the southwestern coast of India. Located along the Konkan coast, Goa is a popular beach destination for tourists looking to travel in August. The state is also surrounded by the Western Ghats on one side, and its beaches meet the Arabian sea on the other. Goa is a popular tourist destination among youngsters and is visited by millions of tourists in India and worldwide. Goa is also known for its old churches like the Basilica of Bom Jesus and Immaculate Conception Church which are among the top places to visit. The beaches of Goa are also a strong tourist attraction in the state and perfect for people travelling with friends. You can tour all the beaches of Goa and party away your vacation with your loved ones.

 

Nearest airport:- Goa International Airport is the ideal way to travel to the city air. You can travel to the airport by both domestic and international flights. It is only a few kilometres away from the cities of Goa so travelling to and from the airport is no big deal.

Nearest railway station:- The Madgaon Junction Railway Station is the best way to travel to Goa by rail transport. Rail transport in India is extremely smooth and costs very little as compared to air travel.

 

Places to visit in August #10: Gangtok, Sikkim

Source: Pinterest

Gangtok is the capital city of Sikkim and lies on the eastern Himalayan range about q,650 m above mean sea levels. Although most parts of Sikkim are not ideal for travelling in August, Gangtok is an exception among them. The city is a hill station that offers some much-needed respite from the heat and crowds of the lowlands around. You can easily reach this tourist spot by roadway and explore the beautiful mountain slopes on your way. You can also visit the various monasteries around Gangtok that showcase Buddhist art and culture. Rumtek is one such monastery; a must-visit for all tourists coming to Gangtok.

 

Nearest airport:- The Pakyong Airport is one of the airports located close to Gangtok. The airport is connected by domestic flights originating from other airport cities in India. Additionally, you can also travel to Bagdogra Airport and then take a cab ride to reach Gangtok through beautiful mountain roads.

Nearest railway station:- The New Jalpaiguri Railway Station is the closest station to Gangtok since train lines are not possible on mountain slopes. You can reach New Jalpaiguri Railway Station from Kolkata and AlipurDuar and then take a cab to Gangtok city.

 

Places to visit in August #11: Pondicherry

Source: Pinterest

Pondicherry is a union territory located near Tamil Nadu in India. Located on the Coromandel coast of India, the city is known for its stunning beaches. Pondicherry is also popular for its well-preserved Portuguese culture and architecture. It is one of the major spiritual hubs in India and the residence of the Aurobindo Ashram. Additionally, the society of Auroville is also located in Pondicherry, and parts of it are accessible to tourists. The weather at Pondicherry is also comfortable for travelling and exploring the area, so you can actually visit the place any time of the year. You can take a bike ride through the city and learn about its rich history and culture from the various sites around it.

 

Nearest airport:- The Pondicherry Airport is one of the best airports to select when travelling to Pondicherry. Direct domestic flights are available here from most Indian cities. Additionally, you can also reach the Chennai International Airport if you are travelling internationally. From Chennai Airport, an overnight bus or cab journey takes tourists to Pondicherry. 

Nearest railway station:- Puducherry railway station is a quaint little station located in Pondicherry. Many trains come here from different parts of India, and the frequency of trains here is ever-increasing. You can easily reach Pondicherry station from Chennai, Bangalore, Goa, and other parts of the country.

 

Places to visit in August #12: Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 

Source: Pinterest

Rishikesh is a Temple-town situated in Dehradun district of the Indian state Uttarakhand. The city lies on the foothills of the Himalayas and has the holy Ganges flowing through its heart. Rishikesh is a popular Hindu pilgrimage site, and thousands of devotees come here every year for worship and prayer. Additionally, it is the yoga capital of India which also draws a large number of tourists to the city. Located close to Haridwar, Rishikesh is perfect for travelling in August when the rains have almost stopped. Some of the places to visit are here include Triveni Ghat,  Shri Ram Jhula, Parmarth Niketan Ashram, Lakshman Jhula Bridge, and Neer Garh Waterfall.

 

Nearest airport:- The Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the best way to travel to Rishikesh by air. Since Rishikesh is a fairly popular tourist destination, multiple options for transport are available at Dehradun Airport. You can opt for government or private vehicles or even take a shared taxi to reach Rishikesh, located about 20 km away.

Nearest railway station:- Rishikesh Railway Station is located close to the city and easily accessible from other railway stations nearby. In case direct trains are not available from your origin station, you can reach Dehradun and then take a connecting train to Rishikesh. Rail transport to Rishikesh is the most economical way to travel to this city.

 

Places to visit in August #13: Bhimbetka Rock Shelters, Madhya Pradesh

Source: Pinterest

The Bhimbetka rock shelters are another set of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India. Located in Madhya Pradesh, this open archaeological site in central India dates back to the Mesolithic periods in history. These prehistoric caves are popular for containing paintings that have been left by the hunters and gatherers who lived on Earth way before proper civilisation came into being. These 750 rock shelters are distributed over 7 hills spanning 10 km. Easily accessible by roadways, you can take a short hike to all the rock shelters. Bhimbetka Rock Shelters are the ideal tourist destinations for people who want to utilise their vacation as a learning experience. 

 

Nearest airport:- Raja Bhoj Airport is the prime airport in Madhya Pradesh. It is connected to domestic and international terminals in India. The best way to travel to the airport will be via Delhi or Mumbai. A short taxi ride will directly take you to Bhimbetka Rock Shelters from the airport.

Nearest railway station:- – The Bundi railway station in Madhya Pradesh is near to the destination. Tourists can easily reach this station from Bhopal and Indore, also located in Madhya Pradesh. These cities are, in turn, connected to metro cities and their respective stations.

 

Places to visit in August #14: Agra, Uttar Pradesh

Source: Pinterest

Agra is a famous city located on the banks of the Yamuna river in Uttar Pradesh. The city is known for housing one of the seven wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal. The city is visited by millions of tourists who come here to marvel at the Taj Mahal. The monument is open to tourists, and you can explore its premises for a fee. The city itself has been the seat of the Mughal empire from Babur and Shah Jahan. The other notable places to visit include Agra Fort, Jahangiri Mahal, Musamman Burj, Moti Masjid, Itmad-Ud-Daulah’s Tomb, Akbar’s Tomb, Jama Masjid, and so on. You can explore these historical monuments and learn more about the City and the construction of the Taj Mahal.

 

Nearest airport:- Agra Airport is located in the city, and the only way to reach Agra is by Airways. Travellers can easily take a domestic flight from connecting airports in India or fly internationally directly to Agra. Regular flights are available here, and tourists won’t require to spend a long time flying to this destination.

Nearest railway station:- The Agra Cantonment Station is the best way to reach Agra city through the railways. Indian railways have an intricate system of rally transport which helps connect major parts of India. A very picturesque train ride will help you experience Indian railways and take you to Agra in record time.

 

Places to visit in August #15: Delhi

Source: Pinterest

Delhi is the capital city of India and is located in the northern section of the country. This city is one of the most densely populated areas in India and also the home to the rich history of the nation. Old Delhi actually dates back to the 1600s and houses many architectural beauties. The Red Fort made from red sandstone, is a symbol of India and one of the most important places in the city. Additionally, Delhi’s other historically rich sites include Jama Masjid mosque, Chandni Chowk, Qutub Minar, Humayun’s Tomb, Lotus Temple, Jantar Mantar, and the India Gate. Delhi is also popular for its nightlife, so it’s the perfect place to visit with your friends as well.

 

Nearest airport:- Indira Gandhi International Airport is located within Delhi and is a major international airport in the country. The airport allows both domestic and international travel. Delhi Airport is connected to several cities across the globe as well as all important domestic terminals in India. A traveller can easily reach Delhi International Airport and explore the city at ease.

Nearest railway station:- The New Delhi Railway Station is well connected to all four corners of the country. Rail links from Delhi run through the major cities in India like Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata,  and so on. In case a direct train is unavailable from a place, Delhi can be reached through connecting trains from metro cities.

 

Places to visit in August #16: Lonavala

Source: Pinterest

 

Lonavala, nestled amidst the Sahyadri mountain ranges, is a charming hill station located in Maharashtra, India. August is an ideal time to visit Lonavala, as the region is full of lush greenery during the monsoon season. The beautiful landscape features waterfalls, hills and verdant valleys, making it a perfect retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Don’t miss the breathtaking views from Tiger Point and the picturesque Bhushi Dam. For trekking enthusiasts, a hike to the Lohagad and Visapur Forts offers an unforgettable experience. Lonavala’s pleasant weather and delicious local cuisine, especially the famous chikki (a sweet delicacy), add to the overall charm of the visit.

Nearest Airport: Pune Airport, approximately 65 kilometre away from Lonavala, is the nearest airport.

Nearest Railway Station: Lonavala Railway Station, well-connected to major cities in India, is the closest railway station to Lonavala. 

 

Places to visit in August #17: Panchgani

Source: Pinterest 

 

Nestled in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, Panchgani is a picturesque hill station that comes alive with lush greenery during the monsoon season in August. Surrounded by lush green valleys and gushing rivers, Panchgani offers a tranquil retreat for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The hills, waterfalls and pleasant climate make it an idyllic destination to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Enjoy breathtaking views from Table Land, the second-longest mountain plateau in Asia. Take a leisurely stroll through the strawberry farms, a specialty of the region. Adventure seekers can indulge in trekking and paragliding activities. The quaint colonial-era architecture adds to the charm of this hill town, making it an unforgettable destination.

Nearest Airport: Pune Airport, approximately 100 kilometre away from Panchgani, is the nearest airport.

Nearest Railway Station: Wathar Railway Station, situated around 45 kilometre from Panchgani, is the closest railway station.

 

Important tips for travelling in monsoon

Travelling during the monsoon season can be a unique and enjoyable experience. However, it’s important to take certain precautions to ensure a safe and pleasant journey. Here are some important tips to keep in mind when travelling in the monsoon:

• Carry appropriate rain gear: It’s essential to pack suitable rain gear to protect yourself from the rain. Bring raincoats, umbrellas and waterproof footwear to stay dry during your travels. Additionally, consider carrying waterproof bags or covers for your electronic devices and important documents to prevent water damage.

• Stay updated on weather forecasts: Stay informed about the weather conditions in the areas you plan to visit. Keep a close eye on weather forecasts and plan your activities accordingly. Avoid venturing into areas that are prone to landslides or flash floods. Stay updated on any road closures or transportation disruptions caused by heavy rainfall.

• Choose the right footwear: Opt for sturdy and waterproof footwear that provides good grip. This will help you navigate slippery surfaces and prevent accidents. It’s important to prioritise your safety and choose footwear that is appropriate for the rainy conditions.

• Pack appropriate clothing: Pack lightweight and quick-drying clothing that will dry easily in case you get wet. Avoid heavy fabrics that take longer to dry and may cause discomfort. Choose materials that are breathable and moisture-wicking to keep yourself comfortable during your travels.

• Be cautious of waterborne diseases: During the monsoon season, there is an increased risk of waterborne diseases. Take precautions to protect your health by drinking only bottled or purified water. Avoid consuming raw or uncooked food from street vendors, as it may pose a higher risk of contamination.

• Stay updated on transportation options: Due to heavy rainfall, there may be delays or cancellations of flights, trains, or buses. Stay in touch with transportation providers and stay updated on any changes or disruptions. It’s a good idea to have backup plans in case of any transportation issues. Consider booking refundable or flexible tickets to have more flexibility in your travel plans.

• Respect local advice and guidelines: Listen to the advice of locals and follow any safety guidelines provided by authorities. Locals have valuable knowledge about the region and can help you make informed decisions. They are familiar with the local conditions and can provide insights to ensure your safety and well-being.

 

FAQs

Is August a good time to travel to India?

Yes, August is a good time to visit India. In August, tourists will find the weather more pleasant due to the rains, which significantly bring down temperatures.

Which part of India is best to visit in August?

If you are visiting India in August, here are the best places to visit:- Munnar Ladakh Agra Goa

How is India in August?

August in India marks the gradual end of the rainy season. The weather stays pleasant, with light showers appearing occasionally.

Which hill station is best in August?

Some great hill stations to visit in India during August include Mcleodganj, Mount Abu, Darjeeling, Bhandardara and Pachmarhi.

Is Goa good in August?

While winters are the best time to visit Goa, you can have a great trip in August too if you plant it right. You’ll be able to enjoy Goa’s scenic points on both bright sunny days and cloudy rainy days.

Which state is best to travel in August?

In August, the best states to visit include Kerala, Andaman and Nicobar, Karnataka, Rajasthan and Maharashtra.

Is August peak season for travel?

Generally, August is not the peak season to travel to most destinations in India. However, this can present an excellent opportunity for those looking to plan a low-budget trip as the hotel prices as well flight fares are considerably cheaper during this time.