Best Time to Visit India
The best time to visit India is generally October–March. This season-by-season guide covers peak, shoulder and low season, the weather you can expect, the festivals that fill hotels and what to pack.
Weather in India
The cool, dry months from October to March suit almost the whole country. April–June is very hot across the north, and the southwest monsoon brings heavy rain from June to September — which is when Himalayan hill stations are at their greenest.
Peak, shoulder and low season
Peak season runs October–March, with the highest flight and hotel demand. Shoulder season (April and September) offers similar conditions with thinner crowds. Low season (June–September (monsoon) and the hottest weeks of May) is the cheapest, with less predictable weather or reduced opening hours at some attractions.
Festivals and holidays
Diwali (autumn) and Holi (spring) are the biggest festivals and the busiest travel weeks; book flights and hotels well ahead.
What to pack for India
Light cottons, modest cover for temples, and warm layers for northern winter mornings.