India is one of the most exotic and inspiring countries in the world. The vibrancy of its multicultural society is evident in the broad range of experiences it offers – from the iconic Moghul Taj Mahal to the palaces, forts and temples of Rajasthan, the mix of old and new in New Delhi and the hill stations in the tea country of the north-west. Some of the best wildlife viewing in the world can be found in India’s National Parks, where species once hunted almost to extinction are now conserved.
The feeling of spirituality is everywhere in India, flowing though everyday life like the Holy Ganges. A journey to India may be an emotional experience but it will also be vibrant and exciting with no two trips ever the same.
The placid backwaters of Kerala offer an experience like no other in India, far away from the noise of the highways. Here you can observe life in remote villages only accessible by waterways: the farmer herding his ducks onto the rice paddies, women singing and laughing while preparing for a wedding, children on their way to school all may be seen from the comfort of your traditional houseboat or “kettuvallam”. Cochin, the capital of Kerala, is the oldest European settlement in India, with many influences still evident today.
In southern India, the beautiful state of Karnataka is famous for incense sticks, sandalwood, shimmering silk and the magnificent palaces of its ancient capital, Mysore. Nagarhole National Park offers a landscape of gentle forested slopes and shallow valleys containing an abundance of wildlife. In Tamil Nadu the city of Madurai is a major textile centre and home to Shree Meenakshi, one of the most important temples in India, while Pondicherry is an attractive former French colony with a Mediterranean feel and the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, one of the most popular and affluent in India. From here you can travel on to the beautiful city of Chennai on the Bay of Bengal to visit the Fort of St George built by the East India Company in 1653 and the 8thcentury Parthasarthy Temple built by the Pallavas and devoted to Lord Krishna, then reflect on your journey on the golden sands of Marina Beach.
Rajasthan – colourful, vibrant and a centre for culture – is famous for the opulent forts and palaces once inhabited by unimaginably wealthy Rajput Maharajahs. The pink city of Jaipur, the blue of Jodhpur, the hauntingly beautiful golden city of Jaisalmer set on the very edge of the desert beyond the Aravali Hills, the Marwari people with their music and legendary horses, and the gleaming white of Udaipur on shimmering Lake Pichola, all combine to make Rajasthan a captivating experience. Neighbouring Madhya Pradesh in the heart of India contains spectacular scenery within the boundaries of her National Parks, in which the variety of wildlife will astound.
In North India, you can take a train journey from the splendours of New Delhi through the cool green hills to the tea plantations of Darjeeling. Make a pilgrimage to the Holy Ganges at Rishikesh and experience the spiritual evening Aarti ceremony before travelling to Leti 8000 feet up in the foothills of the mighty Himalayas, a place for rest and reflection.
India is a vast and diverse country with a wide range of climates and weather patterns across its different regions. The best time to travel to India largely depends on which part of the country you plan to visit and the experiences you seek. Let’s explore the weather in different parts of India and the ideal time to travel to each region:
North India:
Best Time to Travel: October to March
Weather: North India experiences four distinct seasons. During the winter months (December to February), the temperatures can drop significantly, especially in places like Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra. This period is ideal for exploring historical monuments, forts, and palaces. The spring and autumn months (March to April and September to October) offer pleasant weather, making it an excellent time for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Summer (May to June) can be scorching in places like Rajasthan, so it’s best to avoid these months.
South India:
Best Time to Travel: November to February
Weather: South India has a more tropical climate with relatively consistent temperatures throughout the year. The winter months (November to February) offer cooler and more comfortable weather for exploring cities like Chennai, Bangalore, and Cochin. However, regions like Kerala and Tamil Nadu can be visited year-round, as even the monsoon season (June to September) brings refreshing rains and lush green landscapes.
East India:
Best Time to Travel: October to March
Weather: East India experiences a mix of tropical and subtropical climates. The winter months (November to February) offer pleasant weather in states like West Bengal, Odisha, and Bihar. The monsoon season (June to September) can bring heavy rainfall, but it also results in lush greenery, making it an attractive time for nature enthusiasts. However, cyclones are more common during this period, so travelers should keep an eye on weather updates.
West India:
Best Time to Travel: October to March
Weather: West India has a varied climate due to its diverse landscapes. The winter months (November to February) are the most pleasant, with cool temperatures in states like Maharashtra and Gujarat. The summer months (March to June) can be extremely hot, so it’s best to avoid this period. The monsoon season (June to September) brings relief from the heat but can also cause heavy rainfall and flooding in some areas.
Himalayan Region:
Best Time to Travel: April to June and September to October
Weather: The Himalayan region experiences a range of climates, from subtropical in the foothills to alpine in higher altitudes. The summer months (April to June) are ideal for trekking and adventure activities. The autumn months (September to October) offer clear skies and stunning views, making it another excellent time for trekking and sightseeing. Winter (November to March) can be harsh and extremely cold, especially in higher elevations, so it’s best to avoid this period for most travellers.
In conclusion, India’s diverse geography and climate mean that the best time to travel varies significantly across different regions. For most parts of the country, the winter months from October to March offer the most pleasant weather and are ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. However, specific regions like the Himalayas or South India can be visited year-round, each season offering its unique charm and experiences. Before planning your trip to India, it’s essential to consider the weather conditions in the specific area you intend to visit and plan accordingly to make the most of your journey.