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In India, the climate varies widely, so it’s best to plan your trip based on when you want to visit. Some places have hot summers, while others have humid, wet and cold weather.
Although the culture is extravagant and fascinating everywhere and any time you go, you want to make sure to choose wisely when to visit. The weather is constantly changing. It can be sunny one minute and rainy the next.
You can never really predict what will happen in this storied country, but you can ensure that you prepare adequately for whatever comes your way. We’ll give you a sneak peek at the best time to visit India and helpful hints for a memorable vacation.
Why You Should Visit India
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India is one of the most famous tourist destinations in the world. The country encompasses an astounding range of landscapes, from the snow-capped heights of the Himalayas to the flooded wetlands of Kerala and the bone-dry deserts of Gujarat and Rajasthan.
The country also has a rich history and vibrant culture. It offers numerous attractions for travelers, including ancient temples and beaches. There’re beautiful national parks that provide excellent opportunities for safaris.
Indian cuisine is famous for being one of the tastiest in the world. India isn’t just a place to visit; it’s a destination to experience unique diversity.
The country’s attractions will leave you spellbound and wanting more. In addition, it’s an affordable tourist destination. You can expect to spend less unless you stay at 5-star hotels or eat at fancy restaurants daily.
The Best Time to Visit India
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The best time to visit India is between October and March because the weather is pleasant, sunny, and dry. At this time of year, the skies in the north are always crystal clear.
The weather in March is perfect for outdoor activities like walking and attending the Holi Festival celebration. However, it’s usually the rainy season in northern Kashmir. In October, the monsoon rains have subsided in the north.
Although you can expect cloudy skies in the south, both regions feel revitalized. If Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, comes in October, you should anticipate a higher-than-usual occupancy rate at area accommodations.
Many parts of the country have dry, sunny weather in November. However, the heat isn’t unbearable, so you might want to bring a light jacket. The climate in the north of Ladakh is cooler, with vibrant Buddhist festivities.
You might experience the Pushkar Camel Fair, which features competitions for the longest mustache and tug of war in addition to the usual haggling. December and January are notably colder. It gets pretty chilly at night, particularly in the Himalayas.
The mornings and evenings may be cool in Delhi. Since post-monsoon scenery in Kerala is at its lushest in December, visitors flock to enjoy houseboat rides through the backwaters. Furthermore, the weather is ideal for sightseeing in the Golden Triangle.
Cheapest Time to Visit India
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The cheapest time to visit India is between April and May, but you also need to prepare for excessive dampness and the possibility of storms.
It’s the ideal time for wildlife watching. Elephants and tigers come out of the bush to find water when the foliage shrinks. Planning is essential if you seek to visit India for Easter, as this is a peak travel season.
Indians welcome the monsoon season in July, which brings much-needed rain and a lot of mud. Rainfall is intense but unpredictable, making July an excellent time to visit some parts of India if you want to save money.
The monsoons don’t affect Tamil Nadu, and a little rain won’t stop you from taking in the sights in Jodhpur, Jaipur, or Udaipur in Rajasthan. If you don’t mind the rain, September is a great month to visit India. The monsoon rains end by mid-September, leaving the landscape unspoiled.
Meanwhile, you can enjoy less-than-full crowds in top destinations like Delhi and the cities of Rajasthan. During this time, the busy season hasn’t started yet, and the weather is unpredictable, so it’s a fantastic time to find offers.
If you want to spend less on flights in India, use discount coupons and be flexible with your travel dates. In addition, you can book your flight in advance, preferably three months before.
Least Busy Time to Visit India
VARANASI, INDIA: Local people walking on narrow streets with tall houses in historical indian city on January 4, 2019. Varanasi urban agglomeration had population of 1,435,113/Radiokafka/Shutterstock
The least busy time to visit India is in April and June, the off-season. High temperatures are common in India during the cooler months of the year.
By May, the climate is hot across the country, and the people are counting down the days before the monsoon arrives to bring relief. Tourists avoid Indian cities and head to the cooler hill regions or the seashore.
Fewer visitors mean less crowding at popular attractions like the Taj Mahal. Trekkers may enjoy the milder temperatures in the Himalayan foothills.
Although many seaside hotels in Goa close for the season between May and September, accommodation costs are reasonable. To save on travel costs, compare the flight prices on different airlines. You can also delete cookies when booking your flight.
Worst Time to Visit India
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The worst time to visit India is during the rainy season. What you can and should do depends on the weather specifics.
Since the climate varies significantly from region to region, you can visit at any time of year and experience various climatic conditions. You can experience rain, snow, and fog in the hills during the winter, nice summers in the south, and chilly fog in the east of India.
Visit the northern Indian states of Himachal Pradesh, Ladakh, Jammu, and Kashmir if you’re looking for a place with mild temperatures. North East India is the best place to go if you wish to experience spring or autumn.
South Indian states like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh offer authentic summer experiences. A trip to Maharashtra and Goa will guarantee you good weather no matter when you go.
The country has a wide variety of choices and alternatives available to you. You can always find a time and place where the climate and atmosphere suit you best.
Things to Consider
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Here are some things you should remember to make your trip to India go off without a hitch:
- Know the busiest holidays. It’s important to research when India’s major holidays happen. That will allow you to plan around them accordingly and avoid crowds at popular attractions like Taj Mahal or Old Delhi.
- Find out when attractions are open. You can’t skip seeing the Sri Meenakshi Temple, Amber Fort, Golden Temple, and Taj Mahal. You should call in advance like a local to ensure the attraction is open when you want to visit, so you don’t have to turn up when it’s closed.
- Dress conservatively. A defining characteristic of a true tourist in India is the appreciation for local customs. India is a multi religious and traditionally conservative nation. You don’t need to go out and buy a bunch of long saris and cloaks, but bring clothes that will sufficiently hide your legs and arms.
- Bring cash with you. If you plan on traveling outside major cities like Delhi or Mumbai, it’s best to have some money just in case there aren’t many ATMs around or if they’re closed due to holidays or other reasons.
- Carry comfortable clothes. India’s diverse landscape means different parts of the country experience distinct climates. For instance, the summers in Delhi can reach sweltering temperatures of 40 degrees Celsius, while Kashmir enjoys mild temperatures of 20 degrees Celsius.
- Purchase a local SIM card with internet access. Many Indian cities, including the capital, Delhi, lack proper planning. Keep Google Maps handy to verify that your taxi driver is taking you where you need to go without overcharging you. To ensure your smartphone or tablet is always connected, purchase a local 4G SIM card.
- Language. Connecting with locals in outlying India might not be easy because some don’t understand English. You should be fine if you only speak English and confine yourself to urban areas. However, if your travels take you to the North or West, brush up on some basic Hindi words.
- Watch out for scammers. The widespread belief that every region of the country is overflowing with fraudsters isn’t entirely accurate. Nevertheless, it’s best to use caution when traveling anywhere in India. Avoid frauds involving fast-track entry services, invalid SIM cards, inflated taxi charges, and unlicensed tour guides.
- Bargain. Bargaining is practically a requirement in India, whether you’re hailing a cab or purchasing mementos. Since the Indian rupee’s value is lower than most western currencies, local merchants typically give foreigners inflated prices.
- Forego public transportation and hire a car. Hiring a car might be the best option if you plan to visit multiple cities during your trip. You won’t have to deal with traffic or crowded buses and trains.
- Don’t avoid the locals. Interact with the locals if you want to understand Indian culture better. Usually, tourists interpret locals’ attempts at friendliness as ploys to scam them, but that’s rarely the case. The lifestyle in rural areas differs significantly from that in major metropolitan areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Here are the most common questions people ask before visiting India.
Which month is the hottest in India?
April, May, and June are the hottest months in India. In hot seasons, most areas in India experience high humidity and storms. But by June, much of India receives its first monsoon showers, which bring relief from the heat.
Which is the most beautiful season in India?
Springtime, which spans between February and April, is the most stunning season. The climate is also the most common across many parts during this time of year. If you want to see India at its most beautiful, plan your trip to coincide with the end of the monsoon season. That’s when the vegetation is most verdant, and the air is fresh.
What is the best month to visit Goa?
January is the perfect time to travel to Goa. The peaceful coastal town is equally attractive in December and February. Although March and April are often dry, they can have high winds. It’s not advisable to swim, as tornadoes aren’t uncommon.
What is the best month to visit Delhi?
The ideal months to travel to Delhi are February, March, October, and November. The perfect time to travel throughout northern India is before the monsoon rains when the roads are passable.
When is the best time to visit central India’s national parks?
The best time to visit central India’s national parks depends on what you want to see and do. If you’re interested in top animal watching, the best time would be between April and May. If you want to go on a safari or take a jungle trekking trip, visit between November and March.
When is the monsoon season in India?
The monsoon season in India is generally from July to September. The southwest monsoon brings rain to Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka. The northeast monsoon brings heavy rainfall to Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal. If you want to avoid the crowds and the high prices during peak season, consider traveling in September.
Is it safe to travel alone in India?
Yes, it’s perfectly safe to travel alone in India. You’ll find plenty of other solo travelers who are happy to make new friends and share experiences. However, certain areas can be more dangerous than others, so it’s always important to be vigilant of your surroundings.
Can I go to India in July?
While July provides you with fantastic views in India, many parts of the country often face floods. It’s advisable to avoid the mountain regions of India if you must visit the country in July.
Can you travel to India in the summer?
Yes, but most tourists avoid summer months and tour the Himalayas. Ensure to book a well-conditioned room while visiting India in May and June.
What is the best month to visit India with families?
If you want a memorable family vacation in India, visit between October and March. The weather in most parts of the country is warm and sunny during these months. In addition, most tourist attractions near major cities are open.
So, When Should You Visit India?
India is one of the most colorful tourist destinations in the world, making a visit to this amazing country worth it. You’ll love the country’s unique sights and friendly people.
However, it might be challenging to explore the vast country if you don’t know the best time to visit. The best time to visit India is between October and March because the weather is pleasant and cool. But you may have trouble finding accommodation.
So, if you’re looking for a cheaper holiday, consider traveling in other months. However, regardless of the time you choose to visit India, you’ll be surrounded with rich history, countless amazing restaurants, and beautiful sights. So what are you waiting for — book your trip to India today!