Embark on a journey to charming monsoon retreats for a blissful vacation, writes SHARMILA CHAND
With monsoons round the corner, it is time to plan a vacation to soak in the beauty of nature. Immerse in the rich tapestry of exotic destinations across the country. From the mist-laden cliffs of the Western Ghats to the tranquil backwaters of Kerala, and lush green landscape of Goa, enjoy an alluring escape into nature’s lap. Let the droplets of rain be musical notes and characteristic scent of the wet earth allure all your senses.
Rain Soaked Offerings At Radisson Blu Resort and Spa, Alibaug
After braving a hot summer, you deserve to cool off and enjoy the rainy season, and a luxury resort lets you do that while providing every comfort your heart could desire.
Whether you are traveling on holiday or business, the Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Alibaug invites guests to experience unparalleled luxury and the tranquility of natural beauty.
Guests can enjoy a leisurely walk around the landscaped gardens, or simply sit beside the stillness of the Lotus pond. For adventure seekers, the resort offers activities such as guided cycling tours, nature trails, and bird watching. By being close to historical sites such as the Kolaba Fort and Alibaug Beach, there are also opportunities for exploration and adventure to ensure a rich and fulfilling stay for all.
Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Alibaug is designed around wellness and relaxation, with moments of mindfulness offered in the form of daily yoga and meditation sessions-the resort provides a sanctuary for rejuvenation of the body and mind.
Raindrops At The Machan - A Treehouse Resort, Lonavala
The Machan, a unique eco-resort located near Mumbai and Pune, offers a selection of tree-houses that ascend 30-45 feet above ground level, allowing visitors to stay in ‘treetop’ accommodations. Nestled in Jambulne, a ‘biodiversity hotspot’ as one of the 25 globally, The Machan is a great destination for nature lovers.
On the property, visitors can participate in a number of activities such as trekking, bird watching, and exploring historic sites. The resort also offers comfortably furnished chalets and “tree houses.” Feeling a bit adventurous? Start your day with a rush of adrenaline by waking up in the ‘Tree House’ perched 30 to 45 feet above the forest floor in Jambulne.
The experience of the monsoon season at the Machan will usher in a sense of tranquility as you enjoy your endless supply of hot beverages and snacks. Along with the unique and luxurious tree house accommodations, The Machan has much to offer to keep one busy during their stay. With guided nature walks, bird watching and historical forts and caves nearby, there’s always something to do. A stay at the Machan during the monsoon season rewards you with abundant waterfalls, cool breezes and lush greenery for a truly ethereal experience as you enjoy your hot drinks and comforting snacks. Plus, the resort recycles 80% of its grey water and is almost entirely powered by renewable solar and wind energy. So when you book your monsoon getaway here, you aren’t just rewarding your soul - you’re doing your bit for sustainability.
Enchanting Views Of Nerul River At Hilton Goa Resort
Nestled in the picturesque hills of Saipem, Hilton Goa Resort is a synonym for luxury and tranquility. It provides enchanting views of lush greens and Nerul River. The resort will offer you an incredible opportunity to escape from the hustle and bustle. Relax by one of the excellent four outdoor pools or break a sweat in the well-outfitted fitness center. The restaurant with a patio on the resort offers a unique dining experience with mesmerizing coastal views of Goa, while the Doce cafe and Coco lounge bar provide the taste buds with an extensive range of patisserie and Mediterranean flavors.
When it comes to families, the kids club ensures your kids have a good time as you relax. The resort’s location is convenient for exploring attractions such as Aguada Fort and Panjim, with Vagator Beach only being a 30-minute drive away for even more sea, sun and sand.
If you are looking for a romantic getaway, family vacation, or corporate-relaxation, the resort’s event facilities and group travel services offer all you will need. In Hilton Goa you can sip your morning coffee and watch the raindrops fall on the lush greenery outside as the clouds wash away the heat of the summer. Take a dip in one of the four outdoor pools, hit the gym at the fitness centre, or simply walk about outside and enjoy the pitter-patter of the raindrops.
Watch Raindrops On Paddy Fields At Evolve Back, Coorg
One can only imagine what it feels like to be woken up by the smell of coffee and the cold mountain breeze. That’s exactly what a monsoon trip to the 300-acre Evolve Back resort in Coorg will buy you. The private pool villas are traditionally furnished as they were in ancient times, making them perfect for outdoor experiences whether you are alone or with family members.
For quiet moments, the Reading Lounge is an ideal spot. Here, you can enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee while watching the rain fall on the lush paddy fields, creating a perfect ambiance for relaxation and reflection.
Visit to Evolve Back is incomplete without taking part in its rich coffee culture. Right inside this place is a Coffee Museum where people have opportunities to journey through history while learning about processes involved in growing coffee plants and beans. Just by stepping into the plantation field and walking across lush coffee farms one can find better appreciation for their favorite morning drink. The resort also offers a range of cultural and wildlife experiences that highlight the region’s biodiversity and heritage. Guided nature walks, bird watching tours, and interactions with local artisans provide a comprehensive understanding of Coorg’s rich ecosystem and traditions.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation or want to curl up with coffee in the Reading Lounge while watching the rain fall on the lush paddy fields Evolve Back, Coorg is your destination.
Misty Landscapes At RiverMist Resort Chikmagalur
In the lap of the Western Ghats, Chikmagalur is known for its lush coffee plantations and misty landscapes. In the monsoons, it transforms into a vibrant tapestry of green, punctuated by cascading waterfalls and blooming flora, making it a sanctuary for rare bird species, elusive animals, and unique insects. Hidden amidst this mountainscape, is a boutique getaway called RiverMist Resorts. Perfectly situated with the Charmady Ghats in the backdrop, it provides guests with an authentic experience of this region. Traditional Malnad architecture, and local cuisine adds to its charm. Unique nature centric activities and luxury accommodations that offer mesmerising views of the mountains from wooden cottages on stilts to the Luxury Pavilion that features glamping tents with outdoor jacuzzis and showers, is an experience to behold. RiverMist Resorts is more than a place to stay; it’s a story in itself. Upon arrival, guests cross a river in a 4x4 vehicle, setting the tone for the adventures ahead. The resort boasts an infinity pool that overlooks the surrounding hills, providing a peaceful spot to relax while enjoying the vistas.
Nature walks led by an in-house naturalists offers a fun and insightful journey through the diverse flora and fauna. They guide guests along winding trails through the property, revealing smaller natural wonders that you may have otherwise missed. The resort’s private waterfall is in full gush during the monsoons, offering a peaceful escape to sit and enjoy the soothing sounds of flowing water.
Another highlight is the Nature Connect. Every evening, as it gets dark, guests are encouraged to gather by the pool area and soak in the sounds of nature. All the lights of the resort are switched off for ten minutes and amidst the darkness, your sense of hearing begins to heighten as the sounds of birds and animals slowly waking up become louder, your eyes adjust to the darkness and you see fireflies and more stars. You begin to feel one with nature in the true sense. As night falls, the bonfire is then lit and you are welcome to join the naturalist on a night trail.
Further, RiverMist organises monsoon treks to Ballalrayana Durga, Kudremukh and Nethravathi peaks for the trekking enthusiasts. If not, you can opt to go offroading around the estate or even drive up to explore the Rani Jhari viewpoint which is close by.
So if you are someone who enjoys the beautiful synergy of monsoons, mountains and meaningful experiences, RiverMist Resort is an ideal destination.
Monsoon Bliss At Courtyard by Marriott Goa Colva
Courtyard by Marriott Goa Colva offers a unique and enchanting monsoon getaway. Its comfortable accommodations and amenities, combined with the lush beauty of Goa’s landscape, provide an idyllic setting for relaxation and rejuvenation. Whether savouring local cuisine, exploring the lush surroundings, or simply enjoying a serene stay, guests are guaranteed an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Goa’s monsoon magic. The hotel’s recent opening in the midst of the rainy season perfectly showcases a different, greener side of Goa, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a blend of serenity and revelry.
Located in the serene village of Colva in South Goa, the hotel offers an immersive experience of Goa’s lush, rain-kissed scenery, surrounded by verdant paddy fields and swaying coconut farms. The monsoon season breathes new life into the region, and the resort provides the perfect setting to witness this transformation.
As the rain begins to fall, the surroundings of the hotel come alive with a symphony of nature’s sounds and sights. The paddy fields turn a vibrant green, creating a stunning contrast against the moody grey skies. The coconut palms, tall and graceful, sway gently in the breeze, adding to the picturesque scenery. The hotel is designed to blend seamlessly with this lush environment, offering guests a comfortable and welcoming retreat amidst nature’s bounty.
Nestled away from the bustling tourist hubs, the hotel provides a peaceful haven where guests can truly relax and unwind. The monsoon amplifies this sense of tranquility, as the rains cool the air and the landscape transforms into a bright green paradise. Guests can take leisurely walks or cycle through the surrounding locale, breathing in the fresh, rain-scented air, or simply relax on their private balconies, soaking in the serene views.
Courtyard by Marriott Goa Colva is more than just a hotel; it is a tribute to the destination itself. It offers the serenity of South Goa married to the vibrancy of North Goa, presenting guests with a different side of the region. This blend creates a unique experience that combines relaxation with excitement, making it an ideal destination for all kinds of travelers.
Dining at Courtyard by Marriott Goa Colva is an experience in itself, especially during the monsoons. Colva Kitchen, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant, offers a menu that celebrates the flavours of the region, with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Guests can savor a variety of local delicacies, from traditional breakfast specials to flavourful Goan curries, ending with warm desserts. With its large glass windows, this dining area provides a perfect vantage point to watch the monsoon showers, with the sound of raindrops creating a soothing backdrop to the culinary delights.
The hotel also offers a range of activities designed to make the most of the monsoon season. Guests can indulge in spa treatments that utilize natural ingredients, providing a holistic and rejuvenating experience. The hotel’s pool offers a unique opportunity to swim in the rain, adding a touch of magic to the monsoon experience. For those looking to explore, the hotel organizes guided tours of the surrounding village routes and paddy fields, providing an intimate glimpse into the local way of life. Families can enjoy quality time at the hotel’s Kids Club, which offers engaging activities for children.
Sharmila Chand is an author and independent journalist who writes on Travel, Food and Lifestyle
