Selecting the best time to visit India can elevate your travel experience. For many, the ideal time to visit is during the winter, from November to March. However, given India’s vast size, it offers an array of experiences throughout the year, from the majestic Himalayan peaks to the serene backwaters of Kerala. Furthermore, the perfect time to visit depends on which part of the country you wish to explore.
So, with our month and region-specific guide, plan your seamless trip and explore India with a vacation tailored just for you!
Region-wise guide for traveling in India
| Region/Themes | Best Time to Visit | Experiences | Festivals | Ideal trip duration | Travel Hacks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beaches | November – March | Soak in the sun and enjoy beach parties in Goa – Surf at Kovalam Beach – Scuba dive in the Andamans | Goa Carnival – filled with parades, live music, and beach parties | 7 – 10 days | Plan your beach stays in advance. – Carry sunscreen and beach essentials for Goa, Andaman & Nicobar Islands & Kovalam. |
| Wildlife Parks | October – March | Spot tigers in Ranthambore – Explore Gir for Asiatic lions – Visit Kaziranga for rhinos | Wildlife Week in the national parks | 5 – 7 days | Safari rides get sold out fast, so book early. – Morning game drives have better wildlife sightings. – Carry light layers for chilly mornings. |
| Majestic Himalayas | March – June | Trek through Manali’s Solang Valley – Camp at Mussoorie & Nainital – White water river rafting in Rishikesh | Practice yoga during the International Yoga Festival | 5 – 8 days | Avoid monsoon travel as landslides can cause disruptions. – Pack hiking boots and warm layers. |
| Kashmir | March – October | Shikara ride on Dal Lake – Ski in Gulmarg during winter – Visit Tulip Gardens in Srinagar | Tulip Festival: Kashmir’s famous flower festival | 6 – 8 days | Check security updates before travel. – Pack layered clothing for varying temperatures. – Best to visit in spring for flowers and winter for snow sports. |
| Ladakh | June – September | Road trip on the Leh-Ladakh highway – Visit Pangong Lake – Trek the rugged Zanskar Valley | Hemis Festival: Be a part of the colorful Buddhist celebrations | 7 – 10 days | Acclimatize for high altitudes (2 days recommended). – Travel with permits for restricted areas. | Golden Triangle & Rajasthan | October – March | Visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise – Explore Jaipur’s Amber Fort – Palace stays in Udaipur | Pushkar Camel Fair: Cultural fest with camel races | 7 – 10 days | Book Taj Mahal tickets early. – Includes more iconic cities near this famous circuit. | Luxury Trains | October – March | Maharajas’ Express tour of Rajasthan – Ride the Palace on Wheels – Experience Deccan Odyssey | Rajasthan International Folk Festival: Traditional music & dances | 5 – 7 days | Advance booking is advised. | River Cruising | November – March | Backwater cruise in Kerala – Sail the Brahmaputra in Assam – Drift along the Ganges in Varanasi | Indulge in onboard parties and cultural events | 5 – 7 days | Bring binoculars for birdwatching. – Opt for houseboats for authentic Kerala experiences. | Andaman & Nicobar Islands | November – April | Scuba diving and snorkeling at Havelock Island – Relax on Radhanagar Beach – Explore Cellular Jail | Island Tourism Festival: Cultural extravaganza | 6 – 9 days | Avoid the monsoon to make the most of beach time. -Book ferries between islands in advance. – Carry waterproof gear for watersports. | Varanasi & the Ganges | October – March | Witness the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi – Take a boat ride at dawn on the Ganges | Join the festivities of Dev Deepawali: Stunning festival of lights | 4 – 6 days | Take boat rides at dawn for stunning views of the ghats. – Attend Hindu rituals and Aarti along the Ganges. | Goa & Mumbai | November – March | Enjoy parties at Goa’s Beach Shacks – Visit Mumbai’s Gateway of India – Take a Bollywood studio tour | Participate in Ganesh Chaturthi: Mumbai’s grand celebration of Lord Ganesha | 5 – 8 days | Due to heavy rain, monsoon can be challenging in Mumbai. -Go for offbeat exploration in Goa. – Carry light cotton clothes for extra comfort. |
Where To Go and When (Tour by Month)