Best time to visit India

Rajasthan and the north boast warm, dry days in January, the perfect conditions for discovering magnificent architecture in cities like Jaipur, Udaipur and Jaisalmer. However, pack some layers, as nights can get cold (and mornings foggy). India’s mountainous region benefits from clear, sunny skies, but it can be very chilly. Head to India’s southern states for hotter temperatures; Kerala and Goa are lovely this time of year, making January a great time for a beach break. You can enjoy the clear skies and warm sun on the Andaman Islands’ pristine beaches, too. It’s high season, so expect prices to match.

February is the best time to visit India for reliable warm weather in the northern states. It’s still winter, but Rajasthan is less foggy, and daytime temperatures hover around the mid-20 degrees Celsius, meaning it’s a very popular time to go. Catch the Jaipur Literature Festival and Jaisalmer’s vibrant Desert Festival in February. It’s a particularly great month to travel the Golden Triangle route (New Delhi, Agra and Jaipur), although most of India enjoys wonderful weather this month, so the whole country is worth exploring. Plan your trip well in advance, as accommodation gets booked quickly during the peak season.

In March, winter transitions into summer, which means temperatures begin to rise all over the country (although it’s still dry). With little vegetation in national parks, animals are easier to spot, and the weather is still pleasant. Nationwide, the popular paint-throwing festival, Holi, is usually celebrated in early March. Overall, temperatures are not yet too unbearable to enjoy temple tours, bustling bazaars and pretty palaces in the north.

India heats up even more in April, becoming stifling in most regions. It’s the start of the country’s low season, and while it’s still possible to travel, we recommend slowing down the pace. Visit central India’s national parks, such as Ranthambore and Kanha, for excellent wildlife viewing. Tiger sightings can be very good this time of year as the big cats descend upon watering holes. Daytime temperatures often soar above 35 degrees Celsius, so limit your animal-spotting excursions to early mornings and evenings.

May is an extremely hot and humid month in India, with temperatures climbing as high as 45 degrees Celsius in some areas. If you can handle the heat and are a keen wildlife enthusiast, you might consider going on a safari before national parks close for the season. As in April, we recommend only heading out on early morning and evening excursions.

June is another swelteringly hot month to visit India, and the monsoon rains begin (although it’s not as wet as July). Thunderstorms are common, especially in the southern states and the Himalayas. However, the beautiful northern region of Ladakh, the ‘land of high passes’, becomes accessible in June. This high-altitude desert area is unlike any other part of India, enjoying spectacular mountain views during clear, sunny – although chilly – days.

The monsoon season is in full force throughout July, India’s wettest month. While it’s still possible to travel, be aware of the oppressive heat, humidity and heavy rains across most of the country. The good news is that July is still prime time for exploring Ladakh’s mountainous wonders. Discover ancient Tibetan monasteries, deep valleys and glacial lakes in glorious conditions.

Heavy monsoon rains and high temperatures continue throughout August when floods are commonplace. Thanks to high water levels, however, it’s a good month to go on a Ganges cruise in the north. Ladakh is still lovely in August; immerse yourself in its vibrant culture and cinematic scenery under clear blue skies.

In September, much of the seasonal rains subside in the north, and it can be a great value month to visit. It’s still hot, and there’ll be a little rain, but you can enjoy fewer crowds than in the upcoming dry season. September is the last month to visit Ladakh before it closes to tourists for the winter months. In India’s south, monsoon showers continue throughout September, although are much less intense than in preceding months.

Peak travel season kicks off in October in the north. Warm, dry and sunny days dominate in Rajasthan and the northern states, and most national parks across the country open again. Southern states bask in the sun, too, and boast lush green landscapes thanks to the preceding rainy months. There’ll still be occasional downpours, but these trail off towards the end of the month. Diwali – the spectacular Hindu festival of lights and India’s largest festival – falls in October or November. Visit during Diwali to experience magical light displays, including candlelit buildings galore and impressive fireworks.

November is the best time to visit India for beautiful weather across the country before the peak prices of the dry season hit. Rajasthan boasts pleasant temperatures, perfect for discovering the desert (although evenings can be chilly). Don’t miss the Pushkar Camel Fair, where some 50,000 camels and goats (plus plenty more spectators) descend upon the temple town. November is also a great time to visit central India’s national parks, which begin to dry up, with less vegetation for animals to hide behind. Kerala enjoys fewer tourists in November, and it’s a more affordable – but still lovely – time to visit.

Flight prices are at their highest in December, with flights and hotels around Christmas booking up well in advance. It’s the best time of year to sunbathe in the south of India, where days are sunny, warm and dry, and humidity levels are comfortable. Pack a jacket if you visit the north, which can be cooler, particularly in the mornings and evenings. Foggy mornings are also frequent, meaning domestic flights are at risk of being cancelled. It can affect sightseeing too, so we recommend visiting must-see sites like the Taj Mahal at sunset instead. Misty mornings have their upsides, however, and make for magical wildlife sightings in India’s national parks.