India: Chaos, Color & Contrast on an Unfiltered Travel Journey

Seasons

India has three main seasons — summer, monsoon, and winter — though their intensity varies by region.

●  Summer (March–June): Hot and dry, with temperatures reaching 35–45°C (95–113°F) in the northern plains. Hill stations like Shimla and Darjeeling provide cooler escapes.

●  Monsoon (June–September): Heavy rains sweep across most of India, bringing lush greenery but also flooding and travel delays.

●  Winter (November–February): Mild and pleasant in most regions, though the Himalayas and northern plains can get very cold. Southern India remains warm and comfortable.

●  Autumn (October): Considered a transition season, bringing clear skies and cooler nights.

💡 Tip: Winter is the most popular season for travel, especially in Rajasthan, Delhi, and Kerala, thanks to cooler and drier conditions.

Regional Variations

Each part of India has its own climate rhythm.

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●  Himalayas (Ladakh, Himachal, Uttarakhand): Harsh winters with snow, pleasant summers for trekking.

●  Northern Plains (Delhi, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh): Scorching summers, cool winters, and heavy monsoons.

●  Western India (Goa, Maharashtra, Gujarat): Hot summers, dramatic monsoon rains, and mild winters.

●  Southern India (Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka): Tropical climate with less temperature variation but heavy seasonal rains.

●  Eastern India (West Bengal, Assam, Odisha): Hot summers, strong monsoons, and humid conditions year-round.

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💡 Tip: If heading to the mountains, always check weather forecasts. Landslides and road closures are common in the monsoon season.

Annual Rainfall

Rainfall is central to India’s climate, shaping agriculture and lifestyle.

●  The southwest monsoon (June–September) provides around 75% of India’s annual rainfall.

●  Average annual rainfall ranges from 400 mm in Rajasthan’s deserts to over 12,000 mm in Meghalaya, one of the wettest places on Earth.

●  Some regions, like Tamil Nadu, also receive rain from the northeast monsoon (October–December).

●  Coastal areas experience higher rainfall, while the Thar Desert remains arid.

💡 Tip: Carrying an umbrella or a lightweight rain jacket is essential if visiting during the monsoon months.

Humidity

Humidity levels shift dramatically across the country.

●  Coastal regions like Kerala, Goa, and Bengal remain humid year-round.

●  Northern areas are drier in summer but humid during monsoons.

●  Hill stations and mountain regions offer relief with cooler, less humid air.

●  Air conditioning is widely available in hotels, trains, and modern buses.

💡 Tip: Keep hydrated and wear breathable cotton clothing — it’s the best way to cope with India’s sticky summers.

Best Time to Visit

Choosing when to visit depends on your destinations.

●  November–February: Best overall, with cool, dry weather across most of India.

●  March–April: Ideal for visiting the Himalayas before summer heat sets in.

●  June–September: Best for experiencing lush landscapes, waterfalls, and off-season travel discounts.

●  October is a festive season featuring Diwali, Navratri, and Durga Puja celebrations, all enjoyed in pleasant weather.​​

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💡 Tip: For first-time visitors, winter is the easiest and most comfortable season to explore the Golden Triangle and Kerala.

Be Prepared

Preparation helps travelers adapt to India’s varied climate.

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●  Always check weather forecasts, especially during the monsoon season.

●  Pack layers if visiting both north and south in one trip, as climates differ greatly.

●  Use sunscreen in all regions, even in winter or the mountains.

●  Expect occasional power cuts during storms in rural areas.

●  Travel delays are common in the monsoon period. Build flexibility into your plans.

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💡 Tip: Train and flight cancellations are more likely in the monsoon season. Have a backup plan for onward travel.​​