A few years ago, Delhi enjoyed pleasant monsoon months. Now, even the rainy season is hot and muggy, driving Delhiites to the cooler climes of the Himalayas.
The hill stations of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh are particularly stunning during the rains. The monsoon brings lush greenery, rejuvenating the landscape after the dry summer months.
The rain clears the air of heat and pollution and attracts fireflies. Travellers can also enjoy low-lying clouds, flowing streams, and beautiful rainbows.
Ramit Sethi, Founder of Seclude, explains, “Delhiites are seeking a refreshing escape from the city’s relentless heat and humidity. The Himalayas offer a perfect sanctuary, especially during the monsoon, when the natural beauty of these regions is at its peak. Seclude (www.seclude.in), a luxury homestay and boutique resort operator in India,” Seclude, an experiential luxury player operating in the homestay and boutique resort segment in India, is seeing a significant increase in bookings for the July-August season, primarily from Delhiites. Despite an exceptionally hot June, Seclude and other hospitality brands anticipate a 40-50% surge in monsoon bookings for 2024 compared to last year.
Ramgarh, a picturesque village in Uttarakhand, has become a favourite destination. Away from the busy Nainital, Ramgarh boasts stunning orchards of apples, apricots, and peaches in full bloom. Pangot, known for its birdwatching, is also home to animals like the Sambhar, Barking Deer, Leopard, Yellow-bellied Himalayan Weasel, Leopard Cat, Wild Boar, and Red Fox. Palampur, the tea capital of Northwest India, has meadows in full bloom and offers views of the snow-capped Dhauladhar Range through the monsoon clouds.
Many Delhi travellers avoid driving during the rainy season due to slippery roads and gushing streams. Instead, they prefer destinations accessible by rail, such as Ramgarh, Pangot, and Palampur. Ramgarh and Pangot are near Kathgodam Railway Station, about a two-hour drive away, while Palampur is closest to Pathankot station.
Travel tips: Carry mosquito repellents and don’t be afraid to soak in the drizzles!