The short answer
October to March is the best time for most of India. The north and Rajasthan are best from November to February. The south is good from October to March. Ladakh and the high Himalaya are best from June to September.
The short version
October to March suits most of the country. Rajasthan and the north are at their best from November, when nights turn cool and the haze lifts.
The south holds up later into spring, and Kerala's monsoon from June brings its own green, quiet season.
Ladakh and the high Himalaya invert the calendar entirely: June to September is the only comfortable window.
Best months by region
| Region | Best months | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rajasthan, Delhi, Agra | November to February | Cool nights, hot from April |
| Kerala and Tamil Nadu | October to March | Monsoon from June is green and quiet |
| Goa | November to March | Many beach places close in the monsoon |
| Ladakh | June to September | Very cold the rest of the year |
| Darjeeling and Sikkim | March to May, October to November | Clearest mountain views in autumn |
India's three main seasons
Cool and dry: October to March
The main travel season for most of the country. Mornings in the north can be foggy and cold in December and January, so pack layers.
Hot: April to June
The plains get very hot. This is a good time for the hills, Ladakh later in the season, and parts of the south at altitude.
Monsoon: June to September
Rain arrives in the south first and moves north. Kerala is green, quiet and good for Ayurveda. Rajasthan can still work, with fewer visitors.
Planning around festivals
Diwali, Holi, Onam, Pushkar fair and many local festivals can be wonderful, but hotels fill early and prices rise. Dates change each year with the calendar, so we check them when we plan your trip.
Our adviceIf you want Rajasthan and Kerala in one trip, travel between November and February, when both are at their best.
Why timing matters
Globe Travel Centre has been planning India trips since 2006, and our Kerala office has been working in South India for 20 years. We will match the regions you want to see with the months you can travel.
Frequently asked questions
The plains are hot. The hills and parts of the south at altitude are more comfortable.
Yes. Kerala, Rajasthan and Ladakh can all work. Some beach areas close.
Usually the monsoon and the hot season, outside the main holidays.
