Things To Do In India In July For A Memorable Monsoon Trip

An image of a group of people white-water rafting in a yellow inflatable raft in Rishikesh.

The best things to do in India in July ushers in the monsoon season, when the rains create a perfect setting for exploring breathtaking landscapes—hill stations covered in a dreamy mist, waterfalls surging with full force, and cities come alive with vibrant cultural celebrations. Whether planning to visit Munnar or Coorg for the beautiful views, enjoy the waterfalls in Meghalaya, attend the Hemis Festival in Ladakh, or explore Kerala’s serene backwaters, you will always find unforgettable things to see in India in July. This guide explores such things to do on your next trip.

Top 10 Things To Do In India In July

Here is a list of some of the best things to do in India in July for a perfect monsoon escape with your loved ones.

1. Experience River Rafting In Ladakh

Two yellow rafts on a river, during river rafting in Ladakh, surrounded by rocky mountains.

Photo: babasteve / Wikimedia Commons

River rafting in Ladakh is an exciting experience, especially in July when the water levels are just right. The Zanskar and Indus rivers offer routes, ranging from easy stretches for beginners to challenging rapids for those who are seeking an adrenaline rush. As you navigate the currents, the journey takes you through deep gorges and vast valleys and the thrill of teamwork makes river rafting here an exhilarating experience to gain in Ladakh.

Ideal Duration: 4 – 5 days
Entry Fees: N/A
Timings: 24*7
Location: Ladakh, Union Territory of Ladakh

2. Trek Through The Valley Of Flowers

Valley of Flowers, with white flowers, surrounded by snow-capped mountains under a clear sky.

Photo: Naresh Chandra / Wikimedia Commons

The Valley of Flowers trek in July is a journey through the meadows covered in a spread of wildflowers,set against the majestic snow-covered peaks. This moderate trek, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, takes you past flowing streams and through an area rich in plant and animal life. Trekking through the Valley of Flowers is an experience that brings a sense of discovery and a deeper connection to nature.

Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 days
Entry Fees: ₹150 for Indians and ₹600 for foreigners
Timings: 7 AM – 5 PM
Location: Chamoli, Uttarakhand

3. Explore Coffee Plantations In Coorg

An image of a green coffee plant with green leaves and red coffee cherries growing in clusters.

Photo: Dcrjsr / Wikimedia Commons

Coorg in July is a refreshing escape, with the monsoons bringing out the best in its coffee plantations and rolling hills. The air carries the rich aroma of coffee, making it the perfect time to visit plantations and learn about the journey from bean to cup. Guided tours offer a closer look at the coffee-making process, from harvesting to roasting, making this one of the best things to see in India in July.

Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 days
Entry Fees: N/A
Timings: 24*7
Location: Coorg, Karnataka

4. Take A Romantic Boat Ride In Udaipur

 A boat with a large palace and waterway in the background, showcasing the boat ride in Udaipur.

Photo: Jainam Mehta / Unsplash

The monsoon rains in July fill up the lakes of Udaipur and cover its palaces in mist, which makes the city even more beautiful. A boat ride on Lake Pichola is a great way to take in the views of the City Palace, Jag Mandir, and the Aravalli Hills, all reflecting in the water. The gentle sway of the boat, the cool breeze, and the view of heritage structures make the experience relaxing and memorable, and it is one of the amazing things to see in India in July.

Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 days
Entry Fees: ₹400 for adults and ₹200 for children
Timings: 24*7
Location: Udaipur, Rajasthan

5. Witness The Tea Harvesting In Munnar

View of the green tea plantation in Munnar - one of best the things to do in India in July.

Photo: Jakub Michankow / Wikimedia Commons

Munnar’s tea estates come alive with greenery in July, making it a great time to witness the art of tea harvesting. Guided tours take visitors through the estates, offering a chance to learn about the journey from leaf to cup. For those exploring things to explore in India in July, walking through these tea plantations, watching hills draped in mist, and listening to the sound of cascading waterfalls make for a peaceful and refreshing experience.

Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 days
Entry Fees: N/A
Timings: 24*7
Location: Munnar, Kerala

6. Attend The Sawan Month Celebrations In Varanasi

A nighttime Hindu Aarti ceremony in Varanasi - one of the things to do in India in July.

Photo: Jorge Royan / Wikimedia Commons

The month of Sawan (July-August) is a spiritually significant time in Varanasi, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Thousands of devotees visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple to offer prayers and participate in the grand Shivratri celebrations. The streets come alive with colourful processions, devotional songs, and a deep spiritual atmosphere. Dipping in the holy Ganges and witnessing the mesmerising Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat during this time adds to the divine experience.

Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 days
Entry Fees: N/A
Timings: 24*7
Location: Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

7. Go On A Monastery Tour In Spiti Valley

: Explore the monasteries in Spiti Valley - one of the best things to do in India in July.

Photo: Nitinkambo / Wikimedia Commons

Spiti Valley’s ancient monasteries are best explored in July, which is when the roads are easily accessible. Visitors can immerse themselves in Tibetan Buddhist culture by visiting Key Monastery, Tabo Monastery, and Dhankar Monastery while taking in the vast mountain landscape. At Key Monastery, monks gather for morning prayers, their chants filling the air as butter lamps flicker, creating a peaceful and reflective atmosphere.

Ideal Duration: 3 – 5 days
Entry Fees: N/A
Timings: 24*7
Location: Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh

8. Experience The Grand Rath Yatra In Puri

A crowd gathered around three decorated chariots - one of the best things to do in India in July.

Photo: Krupasindhu Muduli / Wikimedia Commons

Puri, Odisha, comes alive during the Rath Yatra festival as thousands gather to pull the massive chariots of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra. The deities travel from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple, followed by music, chants, and celebrations. Rituals like Chhera Pahara and Bahuda Yatra mark the event, creating an atmosphere of devotion and joy. It’s a time when traditions bring people together in a shared experience.

Ideal Duration: 3 – 4 days
Entry Fees: N/A
Timings: June and July
Location: Puri, Odisha

9. Chase Waterfalls In Shillong

An image of a tall waterfall in Shillong, cascading down a green cliffside into a misty pool.

Photo: Prasanta Kr Dutta / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Shillong’s waterfalls reach their full glory in July, with the rains make their descent look more majestic. Elephant Falls, Nohkalikai Falls, and Sweet Falls are great spots to take a walk, enjoy the view, and capture moments with a camera. At Nohkalikai Falls, the water crashes down from a steep cliff into a deep blue pool, creating a sight that stays with you long after you leave.

Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 days
Entry Fees: N/A
Timings: 24*7
Location: Shillong, Meghalaya

10. Explore The French Quarters In Pondicherry

The entrance of the French Quarters in Pondicherry - one of the things to do in India in July.

Photo: Richard Mortel / Wikimedia Commons

Pondicherry’s French quarters feel even more inviting in July, with rain-washed streets, looking fresh in their vibrant charm. Taking in the colonial architecture and stopping by cafés to enjoy French delicacies, makes for a relaxed and enjoyable day. The sound of raindrops on rooftops, along with a cool breeze and as the evening sets in, sitting by the promenade with a warm cup of coffee and watching the waves, makes it one of the soothing things to see in India in July.

Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 days
Entry Fees: N/A
Timings: 24*7
Location: Pondicherry

July in India brings a fresh feel to travel, with the monsoon turning forests greener, rivers fuller, and waterfalls stronger. If you’re looking for things to do in India in July, you can walk through mist-covered hills, watch the waves crash along the coast, or explore streets filled with history. Plan a trip with TripXL and experience India in a new way during the monsoon.

Cover Photo: Loren Dosti / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

The best way to travel is by train or flights for long distances, as road travel can be affected by landslides and flooding in some areas. Opt for local taxis and auto-rickshaw in cities.
Waterproof clothing, sturdy shoes, insect repellent, quick-dry clothes, a travel umbrella, and essential medications are must-haves.
Yes, activities like river rafting in Ladakh, trekking in the Valley of Flowers, and snorkeling in the Andaman Islands are great during monsoon, but check for safety advisories.
The Hemis Festival in Ladakh, and the Teej Festival in Rajasthan are some of the festive celebrations in India in July.
Enjoy piping hot pakoras, masala chai, momos in Ladakh, Goan seafood curries, and bhutta (grilled corn) while exploring monsoon destinations.

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