Best Time to Visit India in 2026 – Weather, Seasons & Travel Tips

Planning a trip to India in 2026 means choosing the right months and places. India’s weather varies a lot: it has a cool dry winter (roughly November–March), a hot summer (April–June) and the rainy monsoon season (July–September). In short, most of India is most comfortable in winter. For example, Delhi, Agra, Rajasthan and central India see mild temperatures (around 10–28 °C) in January–March. Meanwhile the south (Kerala, Goa, Tamil Nadu) also has pleasant weather in winter (about 22–32 °C). In practical terms, the best season to visit India is the cool, dry winter period from about October through March. These months have sunny days, comfortable warmth in most regions, and colorful festivals. In contrast, April–June brings scorching heat in the north (often above 40 °C), and the monsoon rains from July–September can flood roads and fill the air with humidity.

In fact, travel experts agree: the best months to visit India for good weather are generally November, December, January, February and March. For a peak-season trip you might choose December or January (cool, dry, but very popular). November and February are slightly quieter shoulder months with similarly good weather. On the other hand, the worst time to visit India is during the pre-monsoon summer (roughly late May to early July) and the main monsoon season (mid-June to September). During those months, much of northern and central India is dangerously hot (often over 40 °C) and the countryside turns into a soggy, lush-green landscape as heavy rains fall. Travelers should plan carefully if visiting in the low season to avoid flooded roads or extreme heat.

The tips below will help you navigate India’s climate. We’ve gathered a travel-weather guide that covers India’s three main seasons and month-by-month summaries. We’ll highlight the best season to visit India and best places by season, plus list major festivals in 2026 (with exact dates) and how they affect travel. There are also pointers for budget-friendly travel and common mistakes to avoid. By the end, you’ll know when and where to go, what to pack, and what to expect on your trip.

India Climate Overview

India’s huge size means climate varies by region, but broadly three seasons are described. The government’s meteorological department splits the year into four seasons – winter (Dec–early Apr), summer (Apr–June), monsoon (June–Sept) and post-monsoon (Oct–Dec) – but travelers often use a three-season model. The winter season (around October–February) brings dry, mostly sunny weather in most of the country. Days can be pleasantly warm (especially in the south) and nights cool. For example, North India’s winter nights can drop to near 10°C (as in Delhi) while south India (Goa, Kerala) stays in the mid-20s during the day.

In winter months you’ll enjoy clear skies and crisp air. This is when the deserts of Rajasthan turn sunny and cool, the Himalayas are snowcapped, and the backwaters of Kerala are at their most refreshing. The photo below shows the serene Pushkar Lake in Rajasthan in winter; morning light filters through light mist as pilgrims gather along its ghats

. Rajasthan and other northern cities host many festivals now (Holi, Diwali), which can make travel lively but also busy.

Winter (October–February) is by far the best season to visit India – mild conditions allow sightseeing all day. A travel guide notes it is “the most ideal time to visit” since days are cooler and more comfortable. North India is especially great from October through March, while South India stays lovely a bit longer (through April) before getting hot. Note that winter tourism peaks in December–January (holidays season), so book hotels early.

The summer season (March–May) heats up India dramatically. In April and May the north plains (Delhi, Agra, Varanasi, Rajasthan) can reach 35–45 °C. Many people escape to the hills: the mountainous north stays relatively cool and green. For instance, in the Himalayas and hill stations (Manali, Darjeeling, Sikkim) you might experience pleasant 15–25 °C weather in spring. The image below of Pangong Tso lake in Ladakh illustrates summer travel in high altitude – locals stroll along the lakeshore under a clear blue sky

. Summer is also the trekking season in the Himalayas (April–June and again Sep–Nov).

From late May onward, the monsoon (rainy) season moves in. The southwest monsoon typically hits Kerala around June, then spreads north and east. From June through September most of India gets heavy rains and high humidity. Plains and coastal areas receive frequent downpours (southern India by monsoon, eastern coast by the retreating monsoon in autumn). This brings lush landscapes and fewer tourists, but it can also flood roads, delay trains, and raise malarial risk in some areas. Rough Guides notes that July–Sept are India’s low season: “monsoon season, with heavy rainfall … lush landscapes and fewer tourists”. Some travelers love the green countryside in monsoon and good hotel deals, while others avoid traveling then.

By October the rains generally retreat (except in Tamil Nadu/Andhra on the east coast), leaving cool, dry weather across much of India. October–November is a great shoulder season: the land is freshly green, and festivals like Diwali light up the streets. From December on, crisp dry winter sets in again.

Month-by-Month Weather Table

Month	Weather & Conditions
January	High season: Cool, dry winter. North India cold in mornings (around 10°C) and sunny by day; south India still warm (up to ~28–30°C). Clear skies everywhere, peak tourism; e.g. Goa and Kerala enjoy warm beach days. (Holi festival occurs late Feb/March this year.)
February	Dry and pleasant: Winter continues to warm slightly. Delhi ~10–25°C, clear skies. Crowds thin after Jan; many cities see sunny days and cool nights. Good for visiting monuments or south coast. Coastal areas (Goa) are dry and breezy.
March	Spring transition: Days get hotter in north (~20–33°C in Delhi/Mumbai) but evenings remain cool. South India sees bright sun and also Holi celebrations (Mar 4, 2026). Wildflowers bloom in the hills, and wildlife parks (Ranthambore, Bandhavgarh) are prime for tiger-spotting in the cooler dawn/dusk hours.
April	Onset of summer: Hot days return. Northern plains (Delhi) climb into the low 30s (17–34 °C); Rajasthan desert and central India exceed 35°C. Hill stations offer relief from heat. South India (Goa, coastal Kerala) still warm (25–33°C in Goa) and mostly dry until end of month.
May	Peak summer: Very hot in most of India (North/central up to 40+°C). Coastal and southwest regions start seeing pre-monsoon showers or humid heat. Travel slows due to heat. If visiting, focus on Himalayas or beaches (though Kerala rains begin). (Eid-ul-Adha is May 27, 2026.)
June	Monsoon arrives: Southwest monsoon brings widespread rain to Kerala and southern India, then spreads north by month’s end. Temperatures drop (Bangalore ~20–29 °C), and the countryside turns lush. Outdoor tours may be interrupted by showers.
July	Full monsoon: Heavy rain across most of India (especially west coast and northern jungles). Hill stations (Shimla, Darjeeling) have moderate rain and mild temps. Traveling off-peak means low crowds and low prices, though roads and buses can be slowed by downpours.
August	Monsoon continues: Similar to July. Kerala and Meghalaya get especially heavy rains. The landscape is emerald green, with cooler days. Outdoor adventures need rain gear. (Monsoon usually eases in the Himalayas by late Aug.)
September	Monsoon tapering: Rainfall lessens in north and west by mid-month, but parts of east (Odisha) and south (Andhra, Tamil Nadu) get occasional storms as the retreating monsoon begins. Days are humid; evenings often clear. (Southern monsoon season continues into October.)
October	Post-monsoon: Clear, pleasant weather returns to most of India. North and central India see cool nights and warm days (ideal sightseeing). South India may still have some rain early in month. Cities like Jaipur and Delhi are back to dry conditions, and Diwali festivities appear in late Oct/Nov.
November	High season: Cool, dry and sunny almost everywhere. Great for Rajasthan deserts, beach resorts, and temple tours. Daytime highs average 25–30°C across north and south. Festival season (Diwali on Nov 8, 2026) means bright lights and family gatherings across India.
December	High season: Winter fully set. North India (Delhi) sees mild days (~20°C) and cool nights, while south is warm (28–30°C). Perfect for beaches and wildlife parks. The Christmas/New Year holidays (Dec 25) bring festive markets, especially in Goa and Kerala. Crowds are high but so is the holiday atmosphere.

The table above summarizes typical weather and travel notes for each month. (See sources for actual temperatures – e.g. Delhi averages 10–25 °C in Jan/Feb.) In brief, the best months to visit India span November through February, when most of the country enjoys cool, sunny days.

Best Season to Visit India

If you can time your trip just once, aim for winter (November–March). This is widely cited as the best season for travel. Cooler air means you can see outdoor sights all day; many festivals and events happen then; and airlines and hotels are in full swing (so book early). Rough Guides notes that “the best time to visit most of India is during the cool, dry season, between November and March”. The Golden Triangle (Delhi-Agra-Jaipur), the Rajasthan desert, Goa beaches and Kerala backwaters all shine in this season.

The heart of winter (December–January) is “high season” – this brings peak tourism in Rajasthan, Goa and Kerala, but the weather is at its most agreeable. If you can, aim for shoulder months October/November or February (still great weather but slightly fewer crowds). One guide even names November or February as the single best months, since they avoid summer heat and come before or after the monsoons.

Lower crowds can mean good deals. In the shoulder seasons (e.g. April–June), the weather is hotter in the plains but still tolerable, especially in the hills, and hotels often cut prices. July–September (monsoon) is the absolute low season – hotels slash rates but be prepared for rain.

For specialized interests, there are exceptions. If you’re trekking, the Himalayas are best in summer/early autumn (April–June and September–October) when mountain trails are open. In fact, some travelers head north to Ladakh or Sikkim in June–September because those high deserts stay dry while India’s lowlands are drenched.

Overall, though, India’s best season to visit is winter. You’ll escape heat and rain, see clear skies, and enjoy a festive, colorful atmosphere across the country.

Worst Time to Visit India

Travelers should generally avoid mid-summer and peak monsoon in India. The worst time to visit India is late May through July (hottest period) and mid-June through September (monsoon). During late May–July, northern and central regions bake in heat above 40 °C. Such extreme heat can make sightseeing uncomfortable or unsafe.

Similarly, the main monsoon (July–September) brings heavy downpours, flooding and transport delays. In jungled or low-lying areas (e.g. Assam, Sunderbans), roads and rails can be impassable. Even cities see daily showers and crowds thin out. While few local businesses shut entirely, many travelers find that sightseeing is harder when rain is nonstop.

If your itinerary is flexible, avoid these times. That said, some adventurers like the off-peak benefits: cheaper flights and hotels in summer/monsoon, plus lush green landscapes (especially in Kerala and the mountains). Just be prepared for possible flight delays or closed trails in the monsoon, and bring sun protection in summer heat.

Best Places by Season

Where you go in India can depend on the season:

• Winter (Nov–Feb): Famous desert and plains destinations are prime. Think Rajasthan’s golden forts and dunes under a clear blue sky, or Delhi and Agra comfortably cool for the Taj Mahal. The temples of South India (Kerala, Tamil Nadu) are also excellent now – daytime is warm, evenings cool. The image above shows Pushkar Lake in Rajasthan in winter
  . In this season many celebrations occur (see Festivals section), so places like Jaipur or Amritsar buzz with lights and music. Safari parks (Ranthambore, Kanha) are easier to visit in dry ground where wildlife congregates at remaining waterholes.
  
• Summer (Mar–May): Escape the plains to the cool mountains. The Himalayas and hill stations (Shimla, Manali, Dharamshala, Darjeeling) become pleasant. Ladakh and Spiti in the far north are ideal now; roads to Pangong Lake are clear
  and trekking routes open. Even Goa stays bearable until mid-April. In the south, Goa and Tamil Nadu become quite hot though coastal Kerala starts getting rain by May.
  
• Monsoon (Jun–Sep): Many beaches and plains get wet, but the Western Ghats and Northeast shine. Kerala’s backwaters are picturesque in the rain; Onam (Aug 26, 2026) is Kerala’s big harvest festival (boats, feasts, flowers). Western Ghats hill towns (Lonavala, Coorg, Munnar) turn into waterfalls and misty forests. North India’s hill towns (Dalhousie, Kausani) are quiet and green. Even some deserts enjoy rare showers. Wildlife sanctuaries in central India reopen in Oct, but July–Sept means sightings drop due to the rain.
  

In each season, local crowds and prices vary. High season (winter) draws the most visitors to landmarks and beaches. In shoulder seasons (spring or post-monsoon), you’ll find fewer tourists and sometimes lower rates, though be mindful of weather. Ultimately, tailor destinations to climate: avoid desert forts in May, or trek at high altitude during rains.

Festivals in 2026 & Travel Impact

India’s rich cultural calendar offers amazing experiences—if you plan for them. Major Indian festivals in 2026 include:

• Pongal / Makar Sankranti (Jan 14, 2026): Harvest festivals in South and across India. Expect kite flying and large family gatherings. (Air travel or buses in south India may be busy around this holiday.)
  
• Holi (Mar 4, 2026): The “Festival of Colors” falls on March 4. Celebrations sweep the country (especially loud in Mathura/Vrindavan, Jaipur, Delhi). Streets turn powdery and friendly—be prepared to get splashed with colored water and paint. It’s joyous but chaotic; if you visit, wear clothes you don’t mind ruining. Book trains early if you’ll be moving on Holi day, as routes can be crowded.
  
• Ram Navami (Mar 26, 2026) and Eid-ul-Fitr (expected Mar 21, 2026): Both are national holidays. Religious sites see crowds and markets may close in observance. If traveling, check if buses/trains run on the day.
  
• Buddha Purnima (May 1, 2026): Celebrated by Buddhists nationwide. Lumbini and Sarnath have local events; generally a quiet holiday for most travelers.
  
• Raksha Bandhan (Aug 28, 2026): Siblings tie threads; a cultural holiday. Travel isn’t heavily affected except for family gatherings.
  
• Janmashtami (Sep 4, 2026) and Ganesh Chaturthi (Sep 14, 2026): Major Hindu festivals. Temples and cities (especially Mumbai, Pune for Ganesh) host processions; day of Ganesh Chaturthi can be hectic in Maharashtra.
  
• Navratri/Dussehra (Oct 20, 2026): Navratri is a nine-night fest, culminating in Dussehra on Oct 20. Northern cities like Varanasi and Jaipur see dramatic Ramlila performances. Crowds flock to temple fairs. Travel in Rajasthan/UP may slow down as roads get busy with pilgrims.
  
• Diwali (Nov 8, 2026): The biggest Hindu festival (“Festival of Lights”). Homes, temples, and streets glow with lamps and fireworks. Expect crowds in markets before Diwali and packed trains afterwards as families travel. This date is midweek in 2026, but the festive lead-up will spike demand. Book accommodations well in advance for November.
  
• Chhath Puja (Nov 15, 2026): A regional festival mainly in Bihar, UP and Nepal. Ghat prayers on riverbanks. Northern roads around riverside towns may slow.
  
• Christmas (Dec 25, 2026): In Goa, Kerala and cities with Christian populations, Christmas is widely celebrated (nativity scenes, carols). Most of India sees only the big markets open; normal tourism continues.
  

(Note: Eid dates depend on lunar sightings; always check local calendars.)

For travelers, festivals have a travel impact: flights, trains, and hotels often fill up weeks in advance of big holidays. Roads near famous temples (Tirupati during Brahmotsavam, Sabarimala during Mandala) or pilgrimage spots get very busy. On festival days, many shops and offices close (e.g. Delhi sees a Diwali night closure). But festivals also add cultural magic: if you catch a celebration (even as a spectator), you’ll see India’s colors, music and food at their liveliest.

Travel Tip: Use an India festivals travel guide or local calendar to avoid being stranded. For example, avoid scheduling a long train trip on Diwali Eve, or ensure you book a special train around Eid. At the same time, planning around festivals can be rewarding – attending Holi in Mathura or Durga Puja in Kolkata can be memories of a lifetime, as long as you plan logistics accordingly.

Budget Season Tips

Looking to save money? Travel in India’s shoulder and low seasons. As noted earlier, April–June and July–September are off-peak for most regions. During these months, hotels and tours often drop prices dramatically. You may find “off-season” discounts on flights (especially June–August, before local schools begin in September). Inland sightseeing fees (like park entry) rarely change with season, so you still get the sights without crowds.

Booking in May or September can get great deals: Rough Guides even calls April–June a “shoulder season” with fewer crowds and better deals. Monsoon (July–Sept) is the true low season: rains deter many travelers, so last-minute hotels come cheap. Just remember: some roads (like those to hill stations) might be muddy, and beaches may be less sunny. Travel insurers often have lower fares in these months too, and some airlines run super-sales in the monsoon lull.

To use budget seasons wisely, time your itinerary around weather. For example, skip Rajasthan in August but catch up on mountain treks. Or book a Kerala houseboat cruise in September, when it’s green and waterways are full, and rates are a fraction of winter prices. Always compare airlines (budget carriers fly year-round) and think “rain or shine”: many travelers prefer winter, so don’t feel pressured to go only then if your trip cost matters.

Common Mistakes

Traveling in India’s varied climate and culture can lead to a few pitfalls. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Ignoring climate zones: Don’t assume one season fits all of India. For example, planning an April trip to Delhi or Jaipur is very different from going to Ooty or Shillong. Northern plains are already at 40°C by May, while the southern highlands stay milder. Check the region’s weather separately to pack appropriately.
  
• Underestimating travel time: Indian traffic and transport can be slow, especially on hot or rainy days. Festivals, roadworks or rains can cause delays. As NDTV Travel advises, always add buffer time to your schedule. Better to arrive early (and sip chai) than miss a train or flight.
  
• Booking trains/flights too late: Train tickets (Indian Railways) sell out quickly, especially in winter or before festivals. Avoid “waitlist” tickets by booking as soon as reservations open (usually 120 days ahead for long-distance trains). Flights also soar in winter; if traveling in peak season, book months ahead.
  
• Not checking holidays: India has many national and regional holidays. Schools and offices close, and transportation can run limited service on days like Republic Day (Jan 26) or Gandhi Jayanti (Oct 2). Double-check dates. On festival days (like Diwali night or Holi), some public transport schedules change.
  
• Visa/health readiness: This isn’t season-specific, but many forget visa rules. Also, travelers often neglect common precautions: drink bottled water, use mosquito repellent in monsoon, and protect against sun in the summer.
  
• Misjudging vehicle fares: Hailing taxis or rickshaws unprepared can lead to overspending. NDTV notes that tourists often get overcharged for autos/taxis. Tip: use a ride-hailing app (Ola/Uber) for set fares, or insist on using the meter. Have small change handy and confirm rates for longer rides in advance.
  

By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll save hassle and money. Always plan a bit more flexibly in India than you might in smaller countries – distances are long and variability is high.

Practical Tips

Some final tips to make your trip smooth and enjoyable:

• Pack smart for varied weather: Include layers. Even in winter, nights can be chilly in North India. In summer/monsoon, carry a light rain jacket or umbrella and breathable cotton clothing. Sunscreen and a hat are musts if traveling April–May. Closed shoes are useful if you encounter muddy paths or crowded city streets.
  
• Stay hydrated and safe: Tap water isn’t drinkable in most places; buy sealed bottled water. In the monsoon season carry rehydration salts or activated charcoal as a precaution against bugs or food issues. Use mosquito repellent if you’re in jungles or western ghats during rainy months.
  
• Respect local customs: India is diverse. Dress modestly in rural areas and religious sites (cover shoulders and knees). Remove shoes at temple entrances. Politeness goes a long way – learn a few local greetings, especially in towns where English isn’t common.
  
• Book accommodations wisely: For winter trips, book hotels or guesthouses well in advance (they fill up from Nov–Jan). In summer/monsoon, you have more leeway; you can often get good rooms on a walk-in basis at lower cost. Online booking sites show seasonal price trends.
  
• Plan your itinerary regionally: Avoid trying to cover all of India in one trip. If traveling in winter, you might focus on North/Central or South/Goa in different trips. In summer, focus on Himalayan states or hill regions. Chart a route logically (don’t zigzag across the country, which wastes time).
  

Finally, transport tickets: Use official apps or counters. NDTV suggests booking trains through IRCTC or authorized channels. Buses often don’t sell reserved tickets easily; make sure to confirm seat types (sleeper vs. seater) when booking.

By following these practical tips and observing the seasonal advice above, you’ll enjoy your India visit with minimal surprises.

Best Time to Visit India 2026 – FAQs

Q: When is the best time to visit India in 2026?
A: For most regions, winter (November–March) is ideal. The coolest months (December–February) offer dry, mild weather. November and February are often top picks – after the summer heat and before/beginning the winter. This period avoids heavy rains and extreme heat, making it the best season to travel.

Q: Which months should I avoid when planning India travel?
A: Avoid late May through early July (peak summer heat) and late June–September (monsoon). These months bring very high temperatures and heavy rains in many parts of India, which can make travel uncomfortable and sometimes difficult.

Q: How do India’s seasons affect where I should go?
A: In winter, head to northern landmarks (Delhi/Agra/Jaisalmer) or southern beaches (Goa, Kerala). In summer, favor hill stations and the Himalayas (e.g. Ladakh, Himachal). In monsoon, the central/eastern and southern states get drenched, so consider the Western Ghats, Northeast or high-altitude treks. In each case, check the local climate (India travel weather guides can help) and adapt your route.

Q: What are some must-know 2026 festival dates in India?
A: Major festivals 2026 include Holi (March 4), Eid-ul-Fitr (around March 21), Raksha Bandhan (Aug 28), Diwali (Nov 8), Christmas (Dec 25) and others. For example, Diwali on Nov 8 will draw huge crowds and decorated markets everywhere. Holi on March 4 will cover streets with color powder. If your trip overlaps these dates, book transport and hotels early. Also check if local events (like pushkar fairs in November) coincide with your plan.

Q: How can I save money when traveling in India?
A: Travel in the shoulder or low seasons for deals. April–June or July–Sept see fewer tourists, so airlines and hotels often drop prices. Use non-peak hours for flights, look for monsoon packages, and consider guesthouses instead of big hotels. Also, use local buses instead of taxis when possible, and eat at small local restaurants for cheaper meals. Always compare costs online and check for last-minute promotions – you’ll find “budget season” bargains if you plan outside December–January peak.