7 Best Monsoon Travel Destinations in Asia
Monsoon is a season of romance, bringing rain-kissed surroundings that fill our weary souls with exuberant energy. For nature lovers and travelers, this is one of the best times to explore Asia. With a bit of planning, you can make the most of your holiday during this magical season. Here are the seven best monsoon travel destinations in Asia to add to your bucket list.
1. Sumatra, Indonesia
A walk in the pouring rain of Sumatra is pure bliss. Experience "monsoon therapy" with lush green trees, vivacious jungles, and cascading waterfalls. As the largest island in Indonesia, Sumatra offers breathtaking travel opportunities. The refreshing rain enhances hiking, trekking, and sightseeing.
- Lake Toba: Enjoy the monsoon showers accentuating the emerald green grass and trees along with the translucent streams and fountains.
- Bukit Lawang: Jungle trekking here provides an ultimate rainforest experience, allowing you to walk among dense trees and spot adorable orangutans.
2. Tonle Sap, Cambodia
For boat ride enthusiasts, Tonle Sap Lake in Cambodia, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, is a thrilling destination. The rainy season sees the Mekong River overflow, reversing the flow of Tonle Sap and swelling it to five times its usual size.
- Floating Village Life: Witness the simplistic floating village life, where homes, churches, and restaurants are firmly built on stilts.
- Diverse Ecosystem: Glide across the lake’s rhythms and explore the stringent plains and animated forests.
3. Munnar Hill Station, India
Escape from the hustle and bustle of city life to the picturesque landscape of Munnar Hill Station. The monsoon elevates its romantic charm with earthy fragrances, vigorous tea plantations, cascading waterfalls, and mystical landscapes.
- Tea Plantations: Witness clouds assembling to shower, bringing out the green hues of tea leaves.
- Waterfalls: Visit Attukal Waterfalls, Lakkam Waterfalls, and Cheeyappara Waterfalls for a breath of fresh air.
- Adventure Activities: Enjoy river rafting, paragliding over misty valleys, and trekking through rain-bathed forests.
4. Annapurna Circuit, Nepal
This world-renowned trekking route offers an exquisite and verdant trail that starts from Beshi Bahar and circles the Annapurna Massif. The monsoon rain transforms the landscape into vibrant greenery and a majestic atmosphere.
- Trek Duration: A 15-to-20-day trek with convenient lodges along the way.
- Diverse Landscapes: Encounter lowland farming areas, dense forests, terraced fields, and high mountain deserts.
5. Cameron Highlands, Malaysia
Located at the northwestern tip of Pahang, Cameron Highlands is a sought-after hill station, especially during the monsoon when its beauty peaks.
- Tea Plantations: Visit the Boh Plantation, known for its high-quality tea.
- Mossy Forest: Explore the surreal Mossy Forest, covered in green moss.
- Hiking: Trek to Gunung Brinchang, the highest peak in the area.
6. Yakushima Island, Japan
For those fascinated by ancient natural treasures, Yakushima Island is a must-visit. Home to some of the oldest living trees, including the 1,000-year-old "Yakusugi," the island's cedar forest is a world heritage site.
- Okonaki Falls: A roaring, 88-meter waterfall that encapsulates the island's rhythm.
- Turtle Nesting Sites: Discover turtle nesting sites during the monsoon months.
7. Ratargul Swamp, Bangladesh
Sylhet's Ratargul Swamp is a prominent freshwater marshland forest best experienced during the monsoon. The natural water body swells, allowing for navigation across its wonders.
- Wildlife: Features diverse species including birds, snakes, monkeys, lizards, and insects.
- Submerged Trees: The marvelous sight of submerged trees attracts travelers from around the world.
