The Great Indian Monsoon - traveling with the rains

Well not exactly i.e. I have not really been travelling along the monsoon, but rather in the exact opposite direction. Curious? Well, I was on my way down towards South India, while the monsoon moved slowly up towards the Himalayas :)

Monsoon clouds (Picture credits: Pixabay)

Lets start with Ahmedabad. I had the awesome luck of getting drenched in the first rains way back in June, as I went out to buy ginger for making tea, and I loved every bit of it. The need for chai called me back home and afterwards I only enjoyed it from the balcony. Got drenched again twice later, both the times on my way to office on a weekend, says a lot about how much office wanted me to work extra.

Ahmedabad

Next was Mumbai, southwards from Ahmedabad. I was there for a conference and could see the rains lashing the city through the window of my hotel room and the huge glass window panes of Hayatt. But it was enticing still. I always saw rains there, from the window, from the car, the bus and later from the train. But rains never stop Mumbai, but somehow things change and look more dreamlike.

More rains in Pune next. More than rains, it was the anticipation of rains. It was exceptionally beautiful, all the hills around and within the city covered in lush green grass and the sky overcast with pregnant clouds, ready to deliver. The breeze was cold and fans were virtually banished from home.

Monsoon near Pune (Picture credits: Pixabay)

Travelling further south, I was in Bangalore. My thoughts were ripe with anticipation, and I wasn't even one bit disappointed. Its heaven down there, just a small breath of cool air can make you feel happy and content. I enjoyed taking the numerous walks, but never encountered the rains except once in the JFWTC campus.

Stunning monsoon sky (Picture credits: Pixabay)

And now back in Ahmedabad, the weather is almost like Pune or Bangalore. This is the time to be in Ahmedabad, for pleasant treks and bike rides, alone or with someone special. I can see rains drenching everything in sight and the view is delicious; the trees are green, animals look clean and roads spotless dark black.