Best Time to Visit India: A Month-by-Month Travel Guide for Foreign Travelers
India has several seasons, cultures and types of landscape. The appearance of India changes every month, from snowy mountains to sunny beaches, from large busy cities to very small rural villages.
Because of this diversity, choosing the right time to visit can feel confusing, and many travelers turn to an experienced India travel agency for guidance.
Many travelers ask themselves this question and it is understandable because of the various climatic changes during the year.
What is the best time to visit India?
For most travelers, the best time to visit India is between October and March. However, the answer will depend on your experience preferences, the time of year you plan to travel and how much you are willing to spend.
This guide will help travelers who are new to the area. It will explain how the travel seasons operate throughout India as well as how they differ throughout the country.
Understanding India’s Travel Seasons
India experiences 3 primary seasons for travel:
- Winter (October through March): the best season for visitation
- Summer (April through June): a hot but economical season for visitation
- Monsoon (July through September): picturesque green, peaceful, and out of season
Let’s take a look at each season separately.
Winter Season (October to March): Best Time to Visit India
The majority of visitors from around the world would agree that India can be best enjoyed during the winter months.
Why is the winter season the “best time” to visit India? Here are a few simple reasons:
- Comfortable weather conditions
- Availability of clear skies
- Ideal time for sightseeing
- Comfortable for extended travel periods
Winter Weather in India:
- Temperature range of 10oC – 25oC (50oF -77oF)
- Comfortable and Cool Morning Temperatures, Warm/Hot Afternoons, mild evenings
India’s Best Places to Visit in Winter:
The Taj Mahal and the Golden Triangle (Delhi, Agra, Jaipur) are about as “best” as it gets in this country.
- Rajasthan
- Southern India
- Wildlife Parks
- Cultural cities like Varanasi
Peak tourist season is generally November through February so expect hotels and tours to be somewhat more expensive than in other months. However, the experience will far exceed any additional expense incurred.
Ideal Visitor Types:
1. First-time
2. Couples
3. Families
4. Senior Citizens
Best Months During Winter (Quick Breakdown)
October
- Cooler temperatures
- Fewer tourists
- Great time to take a cultural tour
November to February
- Ideal for good weather
- Great for Taj Mahal tours
- Good for wildlife safaris
- Busy time for tourism
March
- A little warmer
- Still good for sightseeing
- Not as many tourists as during peak winter
Summer Season (April to June): Hot but Budget-Friendly
Traveling in summer in India can be difficult, particularly for new tourists who are not used to the heat; however, summer can have many advantages.
Weather
- 30° C / 45° C (86° F / 113° F)
- Warm days, dry climate
Advantages
- Lower hotel prices
- Fewer tourists
- Good for those who want to save money while traveling
Disadvantages
- Very hot in northern India
- Difficult to do sightseeing because of heat at noon
- Best Places to Travel During Summer Months:
- Hill Stations
- An early morning visit to the Taj Mahal
- Short cultural tours
If you visit during the summer months, plan your activities for the early morning and evening; stay hydrated; and make sure to travel at a slow pace.
Great for:
- Budget travelers
- Well-traveled tourists
- Traveling short distances
Monsoon Season (July to September): Green & Peaceful India
There is a season called monsoon every year in India (rainy). Some tourists do not like to go there but some also like to go because of how beautiful everything looks as it has been raining.
Weather:
- Moderate temperatures
- frequent showers
- very humid out
Pro:
- Beautiful scenery
- not many tourists
- lower cost of travel
Con:
- In some areas a lot of rain
- may cause a delay when travelling.
Water activities during Monsoon (the natural beauty of the environment) (Nature tours), (Cultural events), Photography, Scenery of Southern India.
Best Time to Visit India by Region
North India (Delhi, Agra, Jaipur)
- Best time: October to March
- Avoid peak summer if possible
South India (Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu)
- Best time: October to March
- Monsoon is also popular for nature lovers
Wildlife Safari in India
- Best time: November to April
- Tiger sightings best in March–April
Best Time to Visit India for Popular Experiences
Tours at the Taj Mahal are available during the months of November through February; typically the recommended time is early morning.
Golden Triangle Tours can be taken between the months of October and March as well; this season offers the best travel conditions and maximum comfort between cities.
Cultural and Heritage Tours will be best experienced in winter and early spring, especially when traveling during festival times (where appropriate).
So what is the best time to travel to India?
If you are an American, British, or European traveler, the best time to visit India is between October and March.
During this time you will experience:
- Comfortable weather
- Great sightseeing
- Culture
- Ease of travel
For those desiring fewer crowds and lower prices, March and September will be good times to visit as well.
Final Travel Tip
India is not just one place but many places across the country; when is the best time for you to visit will depend on your wish list of activities, locations, and mode of travel.
To help with your decision to plan your itinerary, you should consult with a local travel professional to decide on the best season, itinerary, and pace for your travel plans.
