Beyond Kerala: 7 Hidden South Indian Escapes to Discover This June
Skip the crowds of Kerala and explore 7 hidden gems of South India this June. From misty hills to secret beaches, discover offbeat monsoon destinations perfect for a peaceful getaway.
Kerala might be the reigning queen of South Indian tourism, but look a little further and you'll find destinations just as breathtaking—and blissfully free from tourist crowds. As June rolls in with the whispers of monsoon rain, the landscape across South India transforms into a lush, mist-draped wonderland. So if you’re craving waterfalls, winding forest trails, or dramatic cliffs without the clichés, here are seven hidden gems in South India that promise beauty, solitude, and stories worth telling. (Image: Canva)
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1. Agumbe, Karnataka – Where Monsoon Meets Mystery Often referred to as the "Cherrapunji of the South," Agumbe is a moody, misty rainforest retreat in the heart of the Western Ghats. Come June, this sleepy hamlet awakens to cascading waterfalls, emerald canopies, and the rhythmic pulse of rain. For wildlife lovers and photographers, it’s an untouched paradise. Don’t miss: Barkana and Onake Abbi Falls, Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary, Sunset Point (Image: Canva)
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2. Yercaud, Tamil Nadu – A Hill Station Without the Fuss Forget the crowds of Ooty. Yercaud is Tamil Nadu’s best-kept secret—set amidst coffee estates and pine forests in the Shevaroy Hills. It’s charming, accessible, and far less commercial, making it the perfect spot for a monsoon break without the chaos. Don’t miss: Killiyur Falls, Yercaud Lake, Lady’s Seat viewpoint (Image: Canva)
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3. Araku Valley, Andhra Pradesh – Tribal Trails and Coffee Tales Tucked away near Visakhapatnam, Araku Valley is a scenic blend of tribal culture, sprawling plantations, and dramatic landscapes. Its highland climate makes it a refreshing escape in early monsoon, with clouds playing hide and seek through the valley. Don’t miss: Borra Caves, Coffee Museum, Katiki Waterfalls (Image: Canva)
4. Gandikota, Andhra Pradesh – India’s Grand Canyon If raw, rugged beauty is what you’re after, Gandikota delivers. Known as the "Grand Canyon of India," this gorge along the Pennar River is a geological marvel—and still blissfully under the radar. With a 13th-century fort perched on its edge, it’s a surreal blend of nature and history. Don’t miss: Gandikota Fort, Gorge viewpoint, Belum Caves (Image: Canva)
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5. Kolli Hills, Tamil Nadu – Curves, Clouds, and Culture Nestled in the Eastern Ghats, Kolli Hills is famous for its hairpin bends—70 of them to be exact. But it’s more than just a thrilling drive. June brings misty forests, lively waterfalls, and a tranquil break from city noise. Don’t miss: Agaya Gangai Falls, Arapaleeswarar Temple, Siddhar Caves (Image: Canva)
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6. Chikmagalur, Karnataka – Coffee, Clouds, and Quiet While Coorg often steals the limelight, Chikmagalur charms with its quieter hills, sweeping coffee estates, and off-the-beaten-path trekking trails. In June, the mist rolls in like a local, wrapping the hills in dreamlike silence. Don’t miss: Mullayanagiri Peak, Baba Budangiri, Hebbe Falls (Image: Canva)
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7. Hogenakkal, Tamil Nadu – The Niagara of India Straddling the Karnataka-Tamil Nadu border, Hogenakkal Falls roars to life with the arrival of monsoon. Take a coracle ride along its churning waters or hike along nearby trails for dramatic river views. It’s raw, untamed, and spectacular in June. Don’t miss: Coracle rides, medicinal baths, Melagiri Hills (Image: Canva)
Why Travel South India in June? June brings with it the early magic of the monsoon—gentle rains that breathe life into the landscape without yet disrupting travel. The hills turn lush, waterfalls awaken, and forests wear a fresh coat of green, all while the roads remain open and welcoming. It's also the off-season for tourism, which means fewer crowds, better deals on stays, and a chance to experience places at your own pace. For photographers and nature lovers, June offers moody skies, misty mornings, and postcard-perfect scenes waiting to be captured. South India in June isn’t just a trip—it’s a sensory experience (Image: Canva)
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Kerala may be the poster child of South Indian travel, but the real adventure begins when you go off-script. This June, follow the scent of wet earth and wild jasmine into the forgotten corners of South India. Because sometimes, the most memorable journeys are found just off the beaten path. (Image: Canva)
Priyanka Roshan With over eight years in multimedia journalism, is passionate about storytelling—both visual and textual—across travel, jobs, business, markets, politics, and daily news. From crafting engaging articles to producing compelling videos, she blends creativity with strategy to bring stories to life. With a strong foundation in SEO, and video production she ensures content not only informs but also resonates with audiences.
![1. Agumbe, Karnataka – Where Monsoon Meets Mystery Often referred to as the "Cherrapunji of the South," Agumbe is a moody, misty rainforest retreat in the heart of the Western Ghats. Come June, this sleepy hamlet awakens to cascading waterfalls, emerald canopies, and the rhythmic pulse of rain. For wildlife lovers and photographers, it’s an untouched paradise. Don’t miss: Barkana and Onake Abbi Falls, Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary, Sunset Point (Image: Canva)](https://images.moneycontrol.com/static-mcnews/2025/05/20250527081817_1.jpg "1. Agumbe, Karnataka – Where Monsoon Meets Mystery Often referred to as the "Cherrapunji of the South," Agumbe is a moody, misty rainforest retreat in the heart of the Western Ghats. Come June, this sleepy hamlet awakens to cascading waterfalls, emerald canopies, and the rhythmic pulse of rain. For wildlife lovers and photographers, it’s an untouched paradise. Don’t miss: Barkana and Onake Abbi Falls, Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary, Sunset Point (Image: Canva)")
![4. Gandikota, Andhra Pradesh – India’s Grand Canyon If raw, rugged beauty is what you’re after, Gandikota delivers. Known as the "Grand Canyon of India," this gorge along the Pennar River is a geological marvel—and still blissfully under the radar. With a 13th-century fort perched on its edge, it’s a surreal blend of nature and history. Don’t miss: Gandikota Fort, Gorge viewpoint, Belum Caves (Image: Canva)](https://images.moneycontrol.com/static-mcnews/2025/05/20250527081838_4.jpg "4. Gandikota, Andhra Pradesh – India’s Grand Canyon If raw, rugged beauty is what you’re after, Gandikota delivers. Known as the "Grand Canyon of India," this gorge along the Pennar River is a geological marvel—and still blissfully under the radar. With a 13th-century fort perched on its edge, it’s a surreal blend of nature and history. Don’t miss: Gandikota Fort, Gorge viewpoint, Belum Caves (Image: Canva)")
