Best Places to Travel in India - For Every Month

Best Places to Visit in India in January

January is typically the peak of winter, but it is also one of the most desirable months to travel due to the delightful winter weather, exciting festivals, and scenic splendor. While the elevated portions of the Himalayas are freezing, South Indian destinations such as Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Goa are warmer and pleasanter. January is also the most favored time to visit Western India.  Honestly, there is no shortage of places to visit in January and February. Choose a place depending on your interests, budget, and time frame.

• It is far too cold in Northern India in January. However, if you want to witness snow while partaking in winter sports, travel to the Himalayan foothills. Hill stations such as Mussoorie, Manali, Shimla, Tawang, Gulmarg, Dalhousie, Darjeeling, and Gangtok provide snow-covered landscapes, winter sports, and breathtaking views minus the crowds. Ski enthusiasts can travel to Auli, India’s top skiing location.
• Chadar Trek is the ultimate alternative for January and February. The 6-day trek is one of the most challenging in India, as it involves trekking over the frozen Zanskar River in Ladakh. The freezing temperature guarantees that the ice remains stable and safe for hikers.

• If you prefer milder weather, Rajasthan should be on the agenda. The weather is warm throughout the day with bright sunshine, but the temperature drops at night. Jaipur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, and Jodhpur are well-known for their distinctive blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. They come alive during vibrant celebrations such as Makkar Sankranti. Republic Day celebrations are celebrated in New Delhi on January 26th, adding to the city’s appeal. The Golden Triangle of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur is great for January. After all, one cannot leave India without visiting the Taj Mahal in Agra.
• If you would like to avoid crowds and visit off-beat places, the Rann of Kutch (Gujarat), Mawlynnong (Meghalaya), Hampi (Karnataka), Ziro Valley (Arunachal Pradesh), Lakshadweep, Varkala (Kerala), and Gokarna (Karnataka) are perfect. Pondicherry is another favorite getaway because of its serene beaches, French colonial beauty, and peaceful vibes.
• It is the ideal season to explore the beautiful beaches of Goa and Andamans, the backwaters of Kerala, and the rolling hills of Munnar.
• Wildlife and nature enthusiasts can plan a visit to Gir National Park, Sundarbans, Kaziranga, or Ranthambore National Park.

Best Places to Visit in India in February

If the bitter cold of North India in January is too much for you, February is a great time to plan your next holiday. The month is essentially winter, but the effects are significantly milder, particularly in the subcontinent’s northernmost parts. The majority of India enjoys fantastic weather, allowing you to travel to any region of this amazing nation. Furthermore, February attracts fewer travelers than the prime tourism months of December and January. Whether you prefer cultural experiences, beach getaways, wildlife safaris, or adventure trips, February has something for you.

• After the crazy rush of Christmas and New Year’s, Goa is so much better in February. The weather is nice and sunny, but not too hot – great for exploring Goa’s beaches before the temperatures rise.
• The Andaman Islands, Lakshadweep, Varkala, and Gokarna are ideal for relaxation due to their laid-back vibes serene beaches, turquoise waters, and breathtaking sunsets.
• Kerala and Puducherry are still welcoming and worth a visit. Puducherry’s restaurants and cafes are noted for serving Konkani cuisine as well as traditional French dishes.
• Rajasthan is fantastic in February since the weather begins to warm up, allowing you to explore key destinations. If you time it correctly, you can attend the world-renowned Jaisalmer Desert Festival. Cultural concerts, camel racing, and craft fairs are among the many fun activities offered throughout the three-day celebration.

• You may combine a Golden Triangle tour with visits to the Khajuraho temples, which have erotic sculptures. Try to attend the Khajuraho Dancing Festival in February, which showcases traditional Indian dancing styles. This is also the last month to spend a few days in camps in the Rann of Kutch in Gujarat, with folk music, dance, and local cuisine.
• After months without rain, national parks begin to shed foliage, making this a perfect season for wildlife safaris in dry, open woods. Kaziranga National Park is a fantastic place to see the impressive one-horned rhinoceros. For those hoping to see gorgeous Bengal Tigers, Ranthambore National Park and Jim Corbett Park offer excellent opportunities.
• If you want a spiritual experience, Rishikesh (Uttarakhand) and Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh) are excellent choices. The Ganga Aarti and Yoga retreats are worth experiencing. Rishikesh is also the go-to destination for adventure seekers in India, with possibilities for river rafting, bungee jumping, rappelling, mountain biking, and much more.

Best Places to Visit in India in March

March continues to be one of the best months to visit India. It signals the end of winter and the start of spring, and the weather remains lovely in most of the country. The Holi festival falls in this month, creating an exciting mood filled with color, sweets, and laughter. Aside from that, March is the shoulder season in several destinations, so expect some great prices, fewer crowds, and more open spaces to explore. Here are the top destinations in India to visit in March.

• Holi, the festival of color, is a must-see if you’re traveling to India in March. The festival is celebrated across the country, but Mathura, Barsana, and Vrindavan are among the top places to see it in all of its splendor. The iconic celebrations last a week and include various events. Temples are decorated, streets are bustling with people drenched in vibrant hues, and the town is alive with devotional music and other celebrations. Pushkar, Shantiniketan, and Jaipur are also great destinations to celebrate Holi.
• The onset of summer makes March a prime time to spot tigers. In addition to the national parks listed above, you might want to visit Madhya Pradesh’s Bandhavgarh, Kanha, or Pench National Parks for thrilling wildlife safaris chasing the elusive tigers.

• Now is the time to take advantage of the many hikes that are now open. Chopta (Uttarakhand), Sikkim, Spiti Valley, Dharamshala, Simla, Srinagar, Darjeeling, Shillong, and other hill cities are stunning as flowers bloom against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains.
• Rishikesh is a wonderful place to visit virtually any time of year, but March is great for the weather, Holi, and the Yoga festival. The Annual International Yoga Festival is held in Rishikesh in March and is a fantastic event to attend.
• Amritsar, a historical city, is worth visiting in March. The Golden Temple is the most prominent gurudwara and holy site for Sikhs. The closing ceremony at the Wagah border is a unique event.
• Although it may be hot and steamy in the afternoon, it is still possible to explore the beaches of Goa, the Andaman Islands, and Kovalam in March.
• South of India (Ooty, Coorg, Kerala), Golden Triangle, and Rajasthan continue to be good options in March. If they are on your wish list, visit them before the heat takes hold of the country from March onwards.

Best Places to Visit in India in April

April marks the beginning of summer in most regions of India, making it an ideal month to visit hill stations and wildlife sanctuaries. It’s also an excellent month for trekking, cultural experiences, and exploring offbeat places before the peak summer heat kicks in. Here are the greatest spots to visit in India this April:

• Skip the summer heat in April by visiting hill stations such as Shimla, Nainital, Auli, Manali, Mussoorie, Dalhousie, Panchmukhi, Coorg, and Dharamshala. April is spring in the north, so flowers bloom in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and the Himalayas. The trekking season is in full swing in Himachal Pradesh and the adjacent regions. The lush tea plantations and misty hills of Assam, Darjeeling, Munnar, and Ooty are certainly worth exploring.
• For those who enjoy trekking, the Sandakphu Trek in West Bengal offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Or the Living Root Bridges Trek in Meghalaya promises a one-of-a-kind trekking adventure in lush woodlands.
• One destination that should be on your radar in April is Srinagar. You can tour Asia’s largest Tulip garden with flowers in full bloom. Every April, the Tulip Festival is held in Srinagar, bringing visitors from all over the world. The beautiful blooms surrounded by snow-covered mountains and overlooking Dal Lake are a sight not to be missed.

• April is the perfect month to visit the country’s many national parks and wildlife reserves. Thanks to the scorching sun, animals are out and about, visiting watering holes in quest of water. This means there is a greater probability of seeing large cats and other wildlife. Furthermore, it is still cool enough to go on an afternoon safari. So plan a trip to one of the many wildlife reserves scattered throughout the country. Travel to the less-visited Sundarbans National Park to see wildlife without crowds. Or Kanha National Park, which is located on the Ganga River’s banks.
• If you want to go on a pilgrimage, nothing beats Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand. April is the month when the entry points to the holy pilgrimage Char Dham Yatra open for devotees. The Chhota Char Dham circuit includes the shrines of Badrinath, Kedar Nath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri.
• If you don’t mind the heat and wish to escape crowds, spend your vacation on the beaches of Goa and the Western Ghats.

Best Places to Visit in India in May

May is the peak of summer in India, with temperatures reaching 45 degrees Celsius. So the only way to beat the heat is to visit hill stations. May is also the time for summer vacations, so all of the hill stations will be packed. Whether you want to escape the heat, explore off-beat destinations, or embark on an adventure, here are the finest places to visit in India in May:

• Temperatures in the hilly districts of northern India hover in the early 20s, making this a welcome escape for many Indians. Mussoorie, Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Shimla, Nainital, Manali, Kasauli, and Kufri are some of the most popular May destinations. South Indian towns such as Ooty, Kodaikanal, Munnar, and Coorg offer a reprieve from the sweltering heat.
• Even regions in Eastern India, such as Darjeeling, Gangtok, Tawang, and Shillong, have breathtaking views, gradient green hills, glorious waterfalls, glistening lakes, and mild temperatures. The greatest time to visit Arunachal Pradesh is during the Moatsu festival, which celebrates the conclusion of crop sowing.
• May marks the beginning of the tourist season in Ladakh promising great weather and fewer crowds than peak summer months of June and July. Nothing beats the raw beauty of staggering Himalayan ranges, high-altitude lakes, cold deserts, and fascinating culture.
• The month of May also provides an opportunity to book a pilgrimage package for the Char Dham Yatra.
• Valley of Flowers (Uttarakhand), Spiti Valley, Auli, Roopkund Trek (Uttarakhand), and Triund Trek (Himachal Pradesh) will not disappoint adventurers and trekkers.
• Early mornings and late evening safaris in May are also great for sightings in national parks of West and Central India. The animals would flock near the waterholes to quench their thirst, boosting the chances of spotting rare wildlife. While the Bengal tigers remain the major draw, don’t miss Gir National Park, – the last remaining abode of Asiatic lions.

Best Places to Visit in India in June

June is one of the hottest months in the entire country. It also marks the beginning of the monsoon season in many parts of India, particularly in the south. Escape to the far north, where hill stations and higher-altitude places remain dry and pleasant. It’s also a wonderful season for trekking, wildlife safaris, and exploring unique areas before the rains arrive. Here are the greatest spots to visit in India this June:

• In most parts of the country, the summer vacation is still in progress. So, now is the perfect time to plan a relaxing and fun family vacation to hill stations such as Manali, Shimla, Nainital, Srinagar, Dharamshala, Gulmarg, Gangtok, and Spiti Valley.
• If you enjoy the rain, consider visiting Kerala, Goa, Mumbai, Lonavala, Ooty, Meghalaya, Darjeeling, and Connor. During the monsoon season, Kerala is at its most beautiful, providing a sensory feast. The rain-soaked Western Ghats, with their mist-covered peaks and gushing waterfalls, are a sight to behold.
• This is the last month for wildlife safaris in India before the monsoon season, as national parks close at the end of June. Stay in northern India, where there is less chance of experiencing heavy rainfall. Bandhavgarh National Park, Ranthambore National Park, and Jim Corbett National Park are perennial favorites.
• The best time to visit Ladakh is between June and September. Ladakh is located in the Himalayan rain shadow, hence it receives little to no rainfall. In mid-June, the route from Manali to Leh opens as the snow begins to melt. All of Ladakh’s attractions, including Nubra Valley, Leh, Pangong Lake, and Khardungla Pass, open up by June. A road trip or motorbike trip in Ladakh is a fantastic idea.
• If you want to go on an adventure, Hampta Pass (Himachal Pradesh), Triund Trek (Himachal Pradesh), Valley of Flowers (Uttarakhand), Sandakphu Trek (West Bengal), and Valley of Flowers (Uttarakhand) are still safe and offer spectacular vistas.

Best Places to Visit in India in July

July is the peak monsoon season in many parts of India, making the landscapes luxuriant and gorgeous. It’s the ideal season to visit hill stations, waterfalls, and desert terrain while staying away from flood-prone regions. However, frequent and heavy downpours can produce flooding and landslides, severely delaying travel and leaving you stranded. National parks close during the monsoon season.

• Since Rajasthan is a desert, it receives significantly less rain than other parts of India, therefore July and August are still suitable for sightseeing though it would be hot and humid. Udaipur, known as the City of Lakes, is magical at this time of year, with lushly green Aravalli range, brimming lakes, and cascading waterfalls dotting the landscape.
• If you are seeking a relaxing getaway to rejuvenate yourself. Coorg, Kozhikode, Lonavala, Mahabaleshwar, Kovalam, Shillong, and Pondicherry are excellent choices.
• For rain lovers, Malshej Ghat (Maharashtra), Agumbe (Karnataka), and Kodaikanal (Tamil Nadu) are ideal monsoon destinations that provide fresh air, verdant landscapes, pretty lakes, jaw-dropping waterfalls, and foggy panoramas.

• Although Kerala is mostly a winter vacation, July is when the area is stunning. If you don’t mind being confined inside for long periods, Kerala is worth visiting between July and August. Furthermore, you would be able to book hotels at extremely affordable rates.
• The Valley of Flowers National Park in Uttarakhand is one of the most spectacular monsoon hikes in the country. The valley covers an area of 87 square kilometers and is home to a diverse range of Indigenous flowers, including poppies, orchards, primulas, marigolds, and the endangered Brahma-kamal. The Valley of Flowers Trek is best done between July 15 and the end of August, when the valley is in full bloom.
• In July, the hill stations of North and East India are verdant and picturesque. However, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and many other parts of North India are heavily hit by the monsoon season, so plan your trip earlier in July rather than later. Also, always have a local guide who knows the routes with you to check the forecast and prevent being hit by heavy downpours and landslides.
• Ladakh is also stunning at this time. It rarely rains, therefore it’s safe to plan a trip during the monsoon season. The Hemis Festival is also held in June/July and is well worth a visit. The two-day vibrant event highlights the traditional music, dance, and rich cultural legacy of Ladakh.

Best Places to Visit in India in August

August is the peak of the monsoon season, making it the perfect month to see lush foliage, gushing rapids, dreamy hills, and lively festivals. The majority of the places that can be visited in July are also accessible in August. Whether you’re a rain lover, adventurer, or nature fanatic, here are the best spots to visit in India in August:

• Spiti Valley is a rain-shadow desert, hence it does not get much rain. However, you must prepare carefully before traveling to Spiti because heavy rains frequently trigger landslides along the route. Once you arrive in Spiti Valley, you are good to go.
• Rajasthan, Ladakh, Kerala, Ooty, Coorg, Kodaikanal, Mount Abu, Panchgani, Srinagar, Munnar, Shillong, Mahabaleshwar, Lonavala, Khajuraho, and Kanyakumari remain popular destinations in August.
• Dudhsagar Falls (Goa), Jog Falls (Karnataka), Athirapally Falls (Kerala), Nohkalikai Falls (Meghalaya), and Chitrakote Falls (Uttarakhand) are just a few of the massive cascades that are in full force during the rainy season. So if you love waterfalls, plan a trip to soak up the incredible beauty of these rapids.
• If you want to explore Indian culture and enjoy the celebrations, August has a lot to offer. Onam Festival (Kerala), Teej Festival (Jaipur), Nehru Trophy Boat Race (Kerala), Janmashtami Celebrations (Uttar Pradesh), and Ganesh Chaturthi (Mumbai) are a few celebrations that you ought to witness at least once in your life.
• It is still the best time to visit the Valley of Flowers National Park. So, if you like trekking, plan your vacation in the beautiful valley.

Best Places to Visit in India in September

September marks the end of the monsoon season and the beginning of autumn. Northern and Himalayan states experience lower temperatures than the rest of the country. It’s shoulder season, so flights and hotels are significantly cheaper. September is an excellent month to explore lush green landscapes, hill stations, and cultural sites. With fewer people and great weather, here are the best places to visit in India in September:

• September offers the opportunity to explore prominent places such as Srinagar, Ladakh, Kerala, Mumbai, Coorg, Sikkim, Shillong, Manali, Pondicherry, Darjeeling, Shimla, Mussoorie, and Kodaikanal.
• Tirthan Valley (Himachal Pradesh), Chakrata (Uttarakhand), Araku Valley (Andhra Pradesh), Tawang (Arunachal Pradesh), Jog Falls (Karnataka), and Lepchajagat (West Bengal) are all excellent choices for off-the-beaten-path destinations and unique experiences.
• The temperatures in Rajasthan are significantly more comfortable and you can plan a trip in late September. In reality, you can visit the Golden Triangle now because it is early in the tourist season and everything is more affordable and less crowded.
• September is an excellent time to admire the green mountains and exquisite beauty of the Ziro in Arunachal Pradesh. Another reason to visit the small town of Arunachal in September is the Ziro Festival – India’s largest outdoor music event.
• If you enjoy adventure, you should definitely visit Rishikesh in September. During this month, the Ganga’s water levels are great for exciting rapids, providing an exhilarating experience for adventurers who want action on the torrential waters.
• The end of the monsoon brings relatively nice weather to Amritsar, making it a great season to visit the historic city.

Best Places to Visit in India in October

October is the month of transition between monsoons and arriving winters, making it one of the most perfect times to see India’s varied landscapes. You can travel to every part of the vast country, from north to south and east to west. In October, major festivals and events are widely celebrated throughout India with the same fervor and tradition. The weather is pleasant, the sun is shining, and the country is alive with celebrations. Here are the top spots to explore in India this October:

• Visiting Kolkata during Durga Puja is an incredible experience that should surely be on your bucket list. It is one of the most important festivals in the region. Goddess Durga statues are decorated and venerated in pandals (temporary constructions) known for their unique themes, astounding artistry, and attention to detail. Durga idols are carried through the streets before culminating in the grand immersion of the idols on the last day, Vijaya Dashami.
• Dussehra and Navratri are celebrated in different parts of the country, so choose whichever one you like. The royal processions and illuminated palace in Mysore during Dussehra are spectacular. Kullu in Himachal Pradesh is noted for its unique and traditional Dussehra celebrations.
• If you like dancing, travel to Gujarat or Mumbai and participate in the many Garba and Dandiya celebrations that are held there.
• Rishikesh provides meditation, tranquillity, and yoga, as well as adventurous activities such as river rafting and paragliding. It is still an awesome time to go white water rafting in Rishikesh because the waters have the right rapids and the weather is not too cold yet.
• India’s National Parks open on October 1st. So you may plan a trip to any of the country’s wildlife reserves.
• The routes to the hill stations would now be open, and you could decide between Manali, Nainital, Ooty, Darjeeling, Shimla, Mussoorie, Dharamshala, and so forth.
• It is the start of the tourist season in Rajasthan, Goa, Andamans, Kerala, Pondicherry, and Lakshadweep. So go before it becomes too crowded and the prices start to skyrocket.

Best Places to Visit in India in November

November is the beginning of winter in India, making it one of the greatest months to travel. The month is excellent for outdoor activities without the threat of extreme cold or monsoon rains. This is the time of year when all of India comes together to celebrate festivals such as Diwali and Chhath Pooja. The weather is beautiful, the skies are clear, and there are numerous festivals and events to add to the excitement. From mountains to beaches, deserts to cultural destinations, here are the best locations to visit in India in November:

• There’s nowhere better to celebrate Diwali or Guru Nanak Jayanti than Amritsar’s famous Golden Temple. The holy temple is adorned and illuminated by rows of Diyas and lamps, while the sacred waters dazzle with the light of floating Diyas.
• November invites surfers and beach lovers to India’s stunning shores. Lakshadweep, Pondicherry, the Andaman Islands, and Goa are the most sought-after. Goa is delightful in November, and it is the best time for a trip. That is when you can enjoy the sand, sun, and resorts without the party crowds that descend in December
• Rann of Kutch is a natural wonder located in Gujarat’s Kutch district. With its unique culture, vibrant art forms, and arid landscapes, Kutch is one of the most unique destinations in India. The best period to visit the Rann of Kutch is from November to February when the Gujarat government hosts the Rann Utsav, which highlights the region’s culture, crafts, cuisine, and traditions.

• The Festival of Light is celebrated all around the country, but no place does it better than Varanasi. The little Ganga Ghats are adorned with candles, and the skies are filled with fireworks. Dev Deepawali is another reason to visit the ancient city in November. Rangolis, flowers, and rows of tiny Diyas are used to decorate homes, temples, and ghats. In addition, countless small oil lamps on leaves are released into the flowing waters of the Ganges River. A spectacle not to be missed.
• Rajasthan and the Golden Triangle tour are amazing and have wonderful weather in November. This is an excellent time to explore popular heritage sites because December tends to be packed with tourists. Visit Pushkar in November for the famous Pushkar Camel Fair. Thousands of camels and other livestock are brought here to trade and compete in races. The entire town comes alive with performances, cattle decorations, camel races, and a variety of other competitions.
• Since most national parks are currently operational, there are plenty of options for wildlife safaris. The Keoladeo Ghana National Park near Bharatpur is particularly appealing to bird watchers as migratory species from Siberia and Central Asia make their way to the bird sanctuary.
• Those looking for thrills, tranquillity, clean air, and breathtaking vistas can head to Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Ladakh, and Uttarakhand – as long as you don’t mind the cold.
• It’s also the start of Kerala’s tourism season, so plan if you want to get a decent deal. You can visit Munnar, Kumarakom, Alleppey, Kovalam, Thekkady, Varkala, Kochi, or Wayanad—all of them are wonderful in November.
• Prices and crowds will already be on the rise, so you can venture off the beaten track and explore places like Hampi, Khajuraho, Vijayanagar, Chikmagalur, Cherrapunji, and Mawlynnong.

Best Places to Visit in India in December

December is one of the popular months to visit India, with snow in the north, festive vibes throughout the country, and pleasant weather everywhere. Domestic and international travelers have winter vacations for Christmas and New Year’s, thus everything is booked well in advance during the peak season. The busiest month for travel and tourism, December will spoil with multiple options spread over the country. Whether you enjoy winter landscapes, beaches, cultural festivals, or adventure, December has something for you!

• If money is not an issue, do not miss out on Goa’s Christmas and New Year celebrations. With all the night parties and fireworks, the Goan beaches are the place to be. The beach town will be extremely crowded in December, but it is lots of fun to attend festivals such as Sunburn, Supersonic, Mando, and Sunsplash. To be honest, there is nothing like Goa to spend your December holidays.
• Other beach destinations, such as Lakshadweep, Andamans, Kovalam, and Pondicherry, offer a serene alternative to Goa, with pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, diverse marine life, and plenty of water activities.

• Kerala is a year-round destination, but December is one of the best months to visit ‘God’s Own Country’. The beaches are tranquil, the weather is lovely, and the rain has turned the landscapes luscious green. If you don’t mind the crowds and higher costs, Kerala is an idyllic getaway in December.
• It is also a fantastic season to explore Rajasthan, Kutch, the Golden Triangle, Amritsar, and Varanasi, though the nights can be very chilly. If you’re in the mood for wildlife viewing and jungle safaris, you can also go to the National Parks. They’re all open to visitors in December.
• North Indian regions such as Ladakh, Kashmir, Himachal, Uttarakhand, and Sikkim are blanketed in snow and resemble a winter wonderland. Snow-capped peaks, trekking, and adventure sports are the main draws for visitors. Ski enthusiasts can visit Auli and Gulmarg, both of which are fantastic for mountain skiing.
• The Kolkata Christmas Festival, held every December on Park Street, is one of India’s largest Christmas carnivals. The city beautifully blends ancient Christmas traditions with modern splendor. The streets are abuzz with fairy lights, lively marketplaces, elaborate decorations, and food stalls.