🌤️ When to go?
Best time to visit India
The best time to visit India for backpacking is during the winter season, from October to March. During this time, the weather is pleasant and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 15-25 °C (59-77 °F) in most parts of the country. This makes it ideal for exploring various destinations and engaging in outdoor activities without being overwhelmed by extreme heat or monsoon rains.Additionally, winter is also the peak tourist season in India, so you can expect a lively atmosphere, bustling markets, and a wide range of cultural events and festivals to experience. It is advisable to book accommodations and transportation in advance, as popular destinations can get crowded during this time.
However, if you are looking for a more budget-friendly option, you can consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of October-November or February-March. During these months, the weather is still pleasant, and you can avoid the peak tourist crowds while enjoying lower prices for accommodations and transportation.
Why visit India in January?
January is a great time to visit India because the weather is generally pleasant and comfortable. The winter months in India, especially in the northern parts, offer a respite from the scorching heat of the summer and the heavy monsoon rains. This makes it an ideal time to explore popular tourist destinations such as the Taj Mahal in Agra, the Pink City of Jaipur, or the backwaters of Kerala.Additionally, January is a festive time in India, with various cultural and religious celebrations taking place throughout the country. One of the most significant festivals during this time is Makar Sankranti, which is celebrated with great fervor in many parts of India. This festival marks the transition of the sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn and is observed with kite flying, feasting, and other traditional customs.
Moreover, January is also an excellent time for wildlife enthusiasts to visit India, as many national parks and wildlife sanctuaries are open for safaris and animal sightings. The cooler weather makes it more comfortable to explore these natural habitats and increases the chances of spotting elusive wildlife such as tigers, elephants, and rhinoceroses.
In conclusion, January is a wonderful time to visit India due to the pleasant weather, vibrant festivals, and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Whether you are interested in cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, or wildlife encounters, India has something to offer for every traveler in January.
Why visit India in February?
February is an ideal time to visit India for a multitude of reasons. The weather is generally pleasant, with cooler temperatures in the north and warmer temperatures in the south. This makes it a great time to explore the diverse landscapes and natural beauty that India has to offer, from the snow-capped mountains of the Himalayas to the sun-kissed beaches of Goa. The country also celebrates a number of vibrant and colorful festivals in February, such as the famous Kumbh Mela, where millions of pilgrims gather to bathe in sacred rivers, and the lively Goa Carnival, known for its parades and street performances.On the other hand, February is also a peak tourist season in India, which means that popular destinations can be crowded and prices for accommodations and attractions may be higher. Additionally, some regions in the country, particularly in the north, may still experience some residual winter fog, which can affect visibility and travel plans. It’s also important to be mindful of the potential for air pollution in certain cities, such as Delhi, which can be exacerbated during this time of year.
Overall, visiting India in February offers a unique opportunity to experience the country’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and festive spirit, but it’s important to be prepared for the potential challenges that come with peak tourist season and weather conditions.
Why visit India in March?
March is a great time to visit India for a variety of reasons. The weather is generally pleasant, with the peak of winter having passed and the scorching summer temperatures still a few months away. This makes it an ideal time to explore popular destinations such as the Taj Mahal, Jaipur, and Kerala without having to deal with extreme heat or heavy monsoon rains.Another reason to visit India in March is to witness the vibrant and colorful Holi festival. This annual celebration, known as the ”Festival of Colors,” is a joyous occasion where people come together to throw colored powders and water at each other in a spirit of fun and unity. It is a unique cultural experience that offers a glimpse into the rich traditions and customs of India.
On the downside, March is a popular tourist season in India, so popular destinations can be crowded and accommodations may be more expensive. Additionally, while the weather is generally pleasant, it can still vary greatly from region to region, so it’s important to research and plan accordingly to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip.
Overall, visiting India in March offers the opportunity to experience the country’s diverse culture, witness a unique festival, and explore its famous landmarks in favorable weather conditions.
Why visit India in October?
October is an ideal time to visit India due to the pleasant weather. The monsoon season has come to an end, leaving behind lush green landscapes and clear skies. This makes it a great time to explore India’s diverse natural beauty, from the majestic Himalayas to the serene backwaters of Kerala.Another reason to visit India in October is the festive season. The country comes alive with vibrant celebrations such as Diwali, the festival of lights, and Dussehra, which are celebrated with great enthusiasm and color. This provides a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the rich cultural traditions and customs of India.
On the downside, October is a popular time for tourism in India, so popular destinations can be crowded and accommodation may be more expensive. It’s important to plan ahead and make reservations in advance to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Overall, visiting India in October offers the perfect blend of pleasant weather, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant cultural festivities, making it an ideal time to experience the best that the country has to offer.
Why visit India in November?
November is an ideal time to visit India due to its pleasant weather. The temperatures are comfortable, making it easier to explore the diverse landscapes and cultural attractions that the country has to offer. Whether you want to trek in the Himalayas, relax on the beaches of Goa, or visit historic sites such as the Taj Mahal, November provides the perfect conditions for outdoor activities and sightseeing.Another reason to visit India in November is to experience the vibrant festivals that take place during this time. Diwali, the festival of lights, is celebrated with great enthusiasm throughout the country, offering a unique opportunity to witness the colorful decorations, fireworks, and cultural performances. Additionally, November marks the start of the wedding season in India, providing a chance to witness traditional Indian weddings and immerse yourself in the rich customs and traditions of the country.
On the downside, November is a popular time for tourists to visit India, so you may encounter larger crowds at popular tourist attractions and higher prices for accommodations and tours. It’s important to plan and book your trip in advance to secure the best options and avoid any potential disappointments. Additionally, while the weather is generally pleasant, it’s important to be prepared for occasional rain showers, particularly in the southern and coastal regions of the country.
Why visit India in December?
December is an ideal time to visit India due to its pleasant weather. The cooler temperatures in the northern parts of the country make it the perfect time to explore popular destinations such as Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, collectively known as the Golden Triangle. The comfortable weather allows for more enjoyable sightseeing and outdoor activities, such as visiting the iconic Taj Mahal and exploring the bustling markets and vibrant culture of these cities.Additionally, December marks the beginning of the festival season in India. The country comes alive with colorful celebrations, including Diwali, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve. Visitors can immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere, witnessing traditional rituals, vibrant decorations, and indulging in delicious seasonal delicacies. The lively energy and spirit of the festivals provide a unique and memorable cultural experience for travelers.
Moreover, December offers the opportunity to explore India’s diverse landscapes and natural beauty. From the snow-capped mountains in the north to the sun-kissed beaches in the south, there are plenty of outdoor adventures to be had. Whether it’s trekking in the Himalayas, wildlife safaris in national parks, or relaxing on the beaches of Goa, December provides the perfect weather for enjoying India’s natural wonders.
🌤️ Climate in India
If we consider also the Himalayas, it is said a bit emphatically that India has all the climates of the world, but in most of the country, the climate is subtropical in the north (more or less up to the Tropic of Cancer) and tropical in the center-south (south of the Tropic).Also, the climate in India is affected by the monsoon regime, with a dry and a rainy season. The wettest period goes generally from July to September, except in the southeast, where the monsoon is more intense at the end of the year (retreating monsoon).
In the following map, we can see the climate zones of India.
The rains are more abundant on the south-west coast (see Mumbai, Goa, Mangalore), where they exceed 2,000 millimeters (80 inches) per year, and in the north-east (see Calcutta and the states bordering Bangladesh), where they exceed 1,500 mm (60 in), but at the foot of the Himalayas, some areas are among the rainiest in the world. In contrast, the northwest is arid, and in western Rajasthan, rainfall is below 300 mm (12 in) per year. In the central-southern inland areas (see Hyderabad, Bangalore), rainfall is generally around 800/1,000 mm (32/40 in) per year.
The hottest period generally runs from April to mid-June, i.e. before the arrival of the monsoon, when the temperature can reach 45 °C (113 °F) in inland areas.
Winter lasts from December to February. January and February are dry months in almost all of India, except in the far north, where it can also snow in the mountains. In winter, it can get cold at night in the northern lowlands, where the temperature can approach 0 °C (32 °F).
India can be affected by tropical cyclones. They are more common in the Bay of Bengal than in the Arabian Sea, but they are also possible in the latter. Cyclones generally occur from April to December, with two intensity peaks before and after the monsoon (in May and October-November). The area most at risk is the northern part of the Bay of Bengal
source: climatestotravel.com
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Does the weather seem nice in the period you would like to go? Find all the info you need to start your trip, including reasons why to go, general country info and health and safety advice.