When is the best time to visit India?

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The ideal period for traveling to India spans from October to March, which promises sunny and warm conditions with minimal rainfall.

During these months, you'll find the northern skies exceptionally clear, although brace yourself for cooler temperatures and the possibility of fog in December and January. In contrast, the Himalayas are quite chilly but offer crystal-clear mountain vistas. As the heat intensifies in April and May, the climate becomes more humid with occasional thunderstorms, yet you might snag some great deals during this shoulder season.

For those aiming to explore Ladakh in the extreme north, plan your visit between June and September, which coincides with the monsoon affecting other regions of India.

Post-monsoon, from November onwards, is when the southern states of India are at their best, providing a pleasant climate after the rainy season's departure.

 

The Ultimate Month-by-Month India Travel Planning Guide

Visiting India in January

In January, Rajasthan and other northern areas are cold at night but warm and pleasant during the day, perfect for exploring. The south is great if you're after some sun, just know that spots like Kerala get booked up fast. In the Himalayas, it's chilly but the views are amazing—just bundle up.

 


Best places to visit in January

Visiting India in February

February is fantastic across India—it's sunny and warm everywhere. Northern fog has lifted, but remember, hotels fill up fast, so get your bookings in early.

 


Best places to visit in February

Visiting India in March

March is a hit thanks to awesome weather and the fun-filled Holi festival, where everyone tosses colored powder to celebrate good triumphing over evil. Holi's date varies yearly, so check ahead.

Events & Festivals

  • Holi Festival (early March): This vibrant festival is all about color and joy. Wear something you don't mind getting paint on!

 


Best places to visit in March

Visiting India in April

April sees a rise in temperature, making it great for wildlife spotting as animals gather at watering holes. It's best to do your sightseeing in the cooler mornings and evenings. Easter time gets busy, so book early if that's when you're heading over.

 


Best places to visit in April

Visiting India in May

May offers great hotel deals but brace yourself for intense heat and humidity. It's still good for wildlife watching in the early hours or at dusk. Some places, especially in the desert, might be closed due to the heat.

 


Best places to visit in May

Visiting India in June

Ladakh becomes accessible in June with clear, sunny days—just pack layers for the cold. The rest of India is pre-monsoon, with high humidity and storms, especially in the Himalayas and the south.

 


Best places to visit in June

Visiting India in July

Ladakh is wonderful in July and August with great weather and views. Elsewhere, the monsoon brings rain and celebrations.

 


Best places to visit in July

Visiting India in August

Monsoon continues, but it's the best time for river cruises on the Ganges. Book these trips early because they're popular.

 


Best places to visit in August

Visiting India in September

Rajasthan is great value post-monsoon with a mix of weather. Ladakh's travel season winds down but it's still good to go. However, hold off on trips to the south and Himalayas until after the rains.

 


Best places to visit in September

Visiting India in October

October starts the peak travel season with the end of the rains in the north and lovely days returning. The south might still see showers, adding to the greenery. Also, Gandhi's birthday on the 2nd is a big deal here.

Events & Festivals

  • Diwali (October or November): India's biggest festival lights up the country with candles and fireworks. It's a fantastic time to visit.

 


Best places to visit in October

Visiting India in November

November is prime time across India with great weather and festivals. The Pushkar Camel Fair is a must-see, and Diwali, if it's this month, lights up the country beautifully.

Events & Festivals

  • Camel Fair (November): Pushkar's camel and goat fair is a sight to behold with a huge gathering of animals and people.
  • Diwali (October or November): The festival of lights is a time of celebration with lights and fireworks all over.

 


Best places to visit in November

Visiting India in December

Southern India is sunny and warm in December, perfect for a Christmas getaway. Book ahead, as it's popular! The north is pleasant by day but can get foggy and cool in the mornings and evenings. Flights are priciest, so snag them early if December's your month.

 


Best places to visit in December