Known For : Cellular Jail Scuba Diving In Andaman Radhanagar Beach
The Andaman Islands begin to bid farewell to the monsoons in October, ushering in clearer skies and calmer seas. This transition month sees fewer tourists, making it an ideal time for travelers seeking a more tranquil experience and untouched beaches. With the onset of pleasant weather, water activities like snorkeling and scuba diving become increasingly popular, offering vibrant marine life views.
Best Time: October to Jun
Known For : Virupaksha Temple, Hampi Vithala Temple Lotus Palace
One of the 32 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India, Hampi was the capital of the Vijayanagar Empire in the 13th century with magnificent temples and architectural wonders. The city is in ruins now, but it serves as one of the most interesting places in India to hangout with good weather and ambience to spend some time away from the cities. If you’re looking for a quick getaway from Bengaluru for a weekend in October, Hampi is only an overnight train ride away.
Best Time: October to March
Known For : Key Monastery Chandratal Lake Kunzum Pass
Spiti Valley, nestled in the Himalayas, starts experiencing the early signs of winter with temperatures dropping significantly during the month of october. The landscape transforms, displaying a blend of autumn hues and early snow, making it a visual treat for photographers and nature enthusiasts. However, travelers should be cautious as some routes may begin to close due to snow, and amenities become limited in this remote region.
Best Time: Mid May to Mid Oct
Known For : Echo Point, Munnar Atukkad Waterfalls Munnar Tea Plantations
The idyllic hill station Munnar - famous for its tea estates, exotic lush greenery and craggy peaks, is located in the Western Ghats, in the state of Kerala. It serves as the commercial centre for some of the world’s largest tea estates. In addition, Munnar has many protected areas which are home to endemic and highly endangered species like the Nilgiri Thar and the Neelakurinji. It is one of the best places to visit in October in South India due to its comfortable climate.
Best Time: September to May
Now a Tiger Reserve of repute, this National Park used to be the hunting ground for the Maharajas of Rewa. The park has the highest density of Royal Bengal Tigers in the world which significantly increases the chances of spotting one while on a safari. It also boasts of rich flora and fauna apart from the spectacular tigers. It even has an old fort which is now in ruins but is a great trekking destination. This is one of the best places to visit in October if nature and adventure are your callings.
Best Time: October to June
Known For : Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Tiger Hill Batasia Loop
Referred to as the “queen of the hills”, Darjeeling is a delight. With so much to see and do here, one must take a long holiday in October to enjoy its beauty as the monsoon recedes in September, Darjeeling blossoms in the fall making it one of the best places to visit in India in October. With monasteries, national parks, valleys, soaring mountains, rock garden, toy train, Observatory, colonial architecture, this places has it all, and it looks especially lovely in the fall. Head out this October!
Best Time: February to March, September to December
Known For : Banasura Sagar Dam Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary Chembra Peak
A quick escape from the city life of Bengaluru at around 250 kms distance, Wayanad is great for a peaceful weekend getaway, especially in October. Wayanad is located in Northern Kerala, and it borders Karnataka to its west. A trip to Wayanad is incomplete without a trek to the Chembra peak and Wayanad National park. The weather becomes just fine in October in Wayanad for an enjoyable holiday experience.
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Calangute Beach Fort Aguada Cruise in Goa
Lying on the west coast, Goa is one of the smallest states in India known for its brilliant beaches, scrumptious food and Portuguese heritage. Panjim, the capital city located in the centre is well-connected with an international airport and roads and trains run from North to South part of Goa. It is one of the best places to visit in India in October due to great weather conditions and to witness the start of the peak season in the state.
Best Time: October to March
Known For : Naini Lake Snow View Point Mall Road Nainital
Nainital is one of the most charming hill stations in India which comes alive and is one of the best places to visit in October. The weather is not too cold in October, and the sunsets on the lakes are to die for. It is a photographer’s delight with beautiful lakes surrounded by verdant mountains and temples. There are many activities on offer like boating, trekking, horse-riding etc. It also has an amazing market which is renowned for its woodwork, local handicraft and scented candles.
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Tarin Fish Farm Kile Pakho Ziro Music Festival
Perfect for an offbeat holiday, Ziro is a small town in eastern part of Arunachal Pradesh. Surrounded by hills on the sides with lush green paddy fields in the town, Ziro is mostly inhabited by the Apa Tani Tribes. If you missed the Ziro music festival in September, and want to see what is this beautiful hidden gem that everyone is talking about, October holidays are the right time to visit Ziro with monsoon season over and winters just starting to set in.
Best Time: September - November ; March - May
One of UNESCO World heritage sites, Manas National Park, is of great ecological importance so much so that it has also been declared a Project Tiger Reserve, Elephant Reserve and a Biosphere Reserve. While the park itself may take up a majority of your holidays in October, you can also visit the tea plantations, the summer palace of the King of Bhutan or simply just laze around on the banks of the Manas river. If you are a nature buff, this is one of the best places to visit in India in October.
Best Time: October to Apr
Known For : Rafting in Rishikesh Lakshman Jhula Triveni Ghat
One of the most amazing adventure hubs in India, Rishikesh along with its twin city Haridwar is also of prime religious importance. If you are planning to go for bungee jumping or river rafting, holidays in October are an ideal time to visit Rishikesh before the weather gets too chilly.
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Rann of Kutch Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary Dholavira
One of the most surreal places in India, with a white salt desert and beautiful moonlight nights, Kutch lies in the westernmost of India, and it shares a boundary with Pakistan. With deserts, oasis, beaches, heritage palaces, delicious food, religious temples, wildlife sanctuaries, etc. all in the same district, Bhuj including Kutch is one of the few destinations in India that offers almost everything.
Best Time: July to March
Known For : Bee falls Jata Shankar caves Pandava Caves
The only hill station in Madhya Pradesh, Pachmarhi is often known as the queen of the Satpura ranges. With the weather becoming just about right for the enchanting views, Pachmarhi is one of the best places to visit in India in October.
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Marine Station/Aquarium of Zoological Survey of India New Digha Beach Udaipur Beach
Considered to be the most beautiful beach in West Bengal, Digha is a popular weekend getaway from Kolkata. With summers and monsoons ending and weather getting better in October, Digha has lazy afternoons and pleasant evenings in October. Post-Durgo-Pujo festivities in September-October, spending the weekend in Digha could be a great option to relax.
Best Time: July to March
Known For : Jaigad Fort Water Sports in Ganapatipule Swayambhu Ganpati Temple
One of the few beach towns in Maharashtra with gorgeous beaches, white sand shores, forts, temples and a lighthouse, Ganpatipule is one of the quietest towns which sees very little tourists compared to other famous beaches like Goa, Kashid, Alibaug, etc. After the rainfall reduces by September, Ganpatipule becomes one of the best places to visit in India in October as it is the first month when people start coming back to the town.
Best Time: November to February
Known For : Mall Road, Shimla The Ridge Jakhu Temple
Situated at a height of 2200m, Shimla is the capital and the largest city of Himachal Pradesh in India. Set amidst beautiful hills and mystical woods, Shimla has been a very popular place to visit in India in October among Indian families and honeymooners since the last 50 years.
Best Time: October to June
Known For : Mehrangarh Fort Umaid Bhawan Palace Camel Safari
Jodhpur is famous for the majestic Mehrangarh Fort which was used as a shooting location for the Hollywood movie, The Dark Knight Rises. Aptly named the “Gateway to Thar” this city has many houses painted blue and is hence also known as the Blue city. Go here in October when the weather is balmy and soak yourself in the cultural and architectural beauty of Rajasthan. Moreover, Jodhpur plays host to the mesmerising Rajasthan International Folk Festival in October.
Best Time: November to February
Known For : Varkala Cliff Water Sports in Varkala Varkala Beach
Imagine a beautiful and serene coastline, beaches lined with palm trees, lighthouses, hills and frequented by hippies. Now add forts, lakes, a saint’s samadhi and ancient temples to make a heady mix of a place. Moreover, to top it all, Varkala is an offbeat place with the best time to visit in October. Let us not give you more spoilers. Put your trust in us and head out to this place to make your October Holidays memorable.
Best Time: October to February
Pawapuri, located at a mere 20km from Nalanda, is of great religious importance to the Jain community. It is the burial site of Lord Mahavira and has a beautiful temple in the middle of the pond dedicated to him. Both these places are very peaceful and make for relaxing places to visit in India in October. The sacred places Nalanda and Pawapuri are also well-known for the ancient seat of learning and great architecture
Known For : Nalanda University Hiuen Tsang Memorial Hall The Great Stupa
A stoic reminder of our glorious past, great academic lineage and cultural heritage, Nalanda continues to amaze with its sheer historical richness. A favourite among history buffs, it is the site of the world’s oldest residential university, and its landscape is dotted with remains of temples, monasteries, learning centres, dormitories etc.
Best Time: October to March
Known For : Paragliding in Bir Billing Chokling Monastery Gunehar Waterfall
Bir is a small town located in the state of Himachal Pradesh in northern India. Bir Billing is a popular destination located in Joginder Nagar valley known for adventures sports such as paragliding, treks and also as the town for meditation. It is one of the best places to visit in October in India for adventure activities.
Best Time: March - May; September - November
Known For : Mysore Palace Brindavan Gardens Mysore Zoo
Famously known as The City of Palaces, it wouldn’t be wrong to say that Mysore is one of the most flamboyant places in the country. It is replete with the history of its dazzling royal heritage, intricate architecture, its famed silk sarees, yoga, and sandalwood, to name just a few. Mysore is especially beautiful place to visit in India in October due to the famed Dusshera celebrations that take place during this time.
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Victoria Memorial Fort William Kolkata Belur Math
Kolkata, India's second-biggest city, is a perpetually ongoing festival of human existence, concurrently luxurious and squalid, refined and frantic, pointedly futuristic, while beautifully in decay. A vibrant 350-year-old metropolis located on India's Eastern Coast, the capital of West Bengal thrives on contradictions and imposing spectacles; nothing is commonplace in this city. It is one of the best places to visit in India in October due to the world-famous Durga Pujo celebrations which take place during this time.
Best Time: October to March
Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan reopens after the monsoon season during the month of October, offering a rejuvenated and lush landscape teeming with wildlife. As the vegetation is still dense from the rains, it presents a picturesque backdrop for wildlife sightings, including the park's famed Bengal tigers. The pleasant weather during this month attracts wildlife enthusiasts and photographers, making it an ideal time to explore the park's rich biodiversity.
Known For : Taj Mahal Agra Fort Taj Mahotsav
Home to one of the 7 wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal, Agra is a sneak peek into the architectural history with other UNESCO World Heritage Sites as Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri. History, architecture, romance all together create the magic of Agra and hence makes for a must-visit for anyone living in or visiting India.
Best Time: October to March
Known For : Amer Fort Jantar Mantar Jaipur Hawa Mahal
In October, Jaipur's scorching summer heat gives way to a cooler, more pleasant climate, making it the ideal time to explore its majestic forts and palaces. The Pink City's cultural festivals are in full swing, and the lively markets brimming with handicrafts are a delight to explore. Amber Fort, City Palace, and Hawa Mahal are especially inviting under the bright October sun. This is the time when the city bustles with tourists without being unbearably crowded.
Best Time: November to March
Known For : City Palace, Udaipur Lake Pichola Sajjangarh Palace
Known as the "City of Lakes," Udaipur shines brightest in October when the monsoon rains have replenished its lakes, making the city look even more scenic. The comfortable weather allows visitors to enjoy boat rides on Lake Pichola and visit the grand City Palace without the heat of summer. Udaipur's romantic charm and cultural richness make it a popular destination during this time.
Best Time: October to March
Known For : Nakki Lake Guru Shikhar Toad Rock
October marks the onset of the winter season in Mount Abu, Rajasthan’s only hill station. The cool weather makes it an ideal time to enjoy the scenic Nakki Lake, Dilwara Temples, and the breathtaking views from the sunset point. The fresh, crisp air and serene environment attract both nature lovers and honeymooners during this month.
Best Time: October to March
Known For : Jaisalmer Fort Desert Safari in Jaisalmer Gadisar Lake
The Golden City of Jaisalmer becomes more accessible in October as the intense desert heat starts to wane. It's the perfect time to explore the historic Jaisalmer Fort, embark on camel safaris in the Thar Desert, and enjoy the beautiful sand dunes. Jaisalmer’s rich history, desert landscape, and cultural performances make October an excellent time to visit.
Best Time: October to March
Known For : Pushkar Lake Brahma Temple Savitri Temple
October is the beginning of the festive season in Pushkar, leading up to the famous Pushkar Camel Fair in November. The weather is pleasant, making it an ideal time to visit the holy Pushkar Lake and the Brahma Temple. Pushkar’s unique blend of spirituality, culture, and natural beauty is at its best in October.
Best Time: October to March
Known For : Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple Dashashwamedh Ghat Ganga Aarti, Varanasi
Varanasi, one of the holiest cities in India, is particularly serene in October when the monsoon retreats and the weather becomes comfortable. Visitors can witness the grand Ganga Aarti at the ghats and take peaceful boat rides on the Ganges River. The cultural and spiritual ambiance of Varanasi is especially vibrant during this time of year.
Best Time: October to March
Known For : Bara Imambara Chota Imambara British Residency
The capital of Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow, becomes more inviting in October as the oppressive summer heat eases. Visitors can comfortably explore the city’s Mughal architecture, including Bara Imambara and Rumi Darwaza, and indulge in the local Awadhi cuisine. October is also the time when the city comes alive with cultural events and festivals.
Best Time: October to March
Known For : Mussoorie Mall Road Kempty Falls Camel's Back Road
Known as the "Queen of Hill Stations," Mussoorie is at its most charming in October when the mist clears and the skies are bright. The pleasant weather makes it an ideal time for walking along the Mall Road, visiting Kempty Falls, and taking in the breathtaking views from Gun Hill. Mussoorie’s vibrant autumn foliage is another reason why this is the best time to visit.
Best Time: September to June
Known For : Jungle Safari in Corbett National Park Corbett Waterfall River Rafting in Corbett National Park
October is when Jim Corbett National Park reopens for visitors after the monsoon, offering ideal conditions for wildlife safaris. The park’s lush landscapes are rejuvenated by the rains, providing a perfect environment for spotting tigers, elephants, and other wildlife. This is the best time for nature lovers and photographers to experience the park’s rich biodiversity.
Best Time: Mid October to Mid June
Known For : Valley of Flowers National Park Nanda Devi National Park Fauna & Flora
Though the Valley of Flowers closes in mid-October, the early part of the month still offers a chance to witness its stunning beauty. After the monsoons, the valley is in full bloom with a variety of rare flowers and rich biodiversity. October's cool weather and clear skies make it a magical time to trek through this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Best Time: May to October
Known For : Chaubatia Orchards Majhkhali Golf Course
Ranikhet, with its unspoiled natural beauty, is best visited in October when the air is crisp, and the skies are clear. The lush green meadows and panoramic views of the Himalayas are at their finest after the monsoon season. It’s an ideal destination for those looking to relax in a peaceful and scenic environment.
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Ganga Aarti in Haridwar Har Ki Pauri Chandi Devi Temple
October in Haridwar offers a pleasant respite from the summer heat, making it a favorable time to visit this holy city. The Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri is particularly serene during this month, and the city’s temples and ghats can be explored without the crowds of peak season. Haridwar's spiritual aura is complemented by the comfortable October weather.
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Hidimba Temple Solang Valley Manu Temple
October is a picturesque time to visit Manali, as the town prepares for the onset of winter. The weather is cool but not freezing, perfect for enjoying outdoor activities like trekking, paragliding, and exploring nearby attractions like Rohtang Pass. The golden autumn leaves and snow-capped peaks in the distance make it one of the best months to visit Manali.
Best Time: October to June
Known For : Rafting in Kullu Manali Raghunath Temple, Kullu Naggar
October is a festive time in Kullu, with the famous Kullu Dussehra festival drawing visitors from all over the country. The valley is lush and green after the monsoon, and the cool weather makes it perfect for exploring the region’s temples and natural beauty. The combination of vibrant culture and scenic landscapes makes October the best time to visit Kullu.
Best Time: March to June
Known For : Sun Temple, Konark Chandrabhaga Beach ASI Museum
October is the perfect time to visit the Sun Temple of Konark, one of India’s architectural marvels. The weather is comfortable for exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site and its nearby beach. With fewer tourists and festivals around the corner, Konark becomes a peaceful yet awe-inspiring destination.
Best Time: September to March
Known For : Dalai Lama Temple St. John in the Wilderness Church Dharamshala Cricket Stadium
Dharamshala’s cool October weather offers a refreshing retreat in the foothills of the Himalayas. The town, known for being the residence of the Dalai Lama, is perfect for spiritual seekers and adventure lovers alike. You can explore Tibetan culture, visit monasteries, and take treks like the famous Triund trek. The post-monsoon greenery and clear skies make the region especially picturesque.
Best Time: October to June
Known For : Golden Temple Wagah Border Jallianwala Bagh
In October, Amritsar’s weather is pleasant, allowing for comfortable exploration of the city’s key attractions, such as the Golden Temple and the Jallianwala Bagh. The month also coincides with the festive season of Diwali, which is celebrated with grandeur in this holy city. Visiting the Wagah Border for the daily flag-lowering ceremony is another highlight during this time.
Best Time: October to March
Known For : Upper Lake Van Vihar, Bhopal Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya
October in Bhopal offers a respite from the heat, with cooler temperatures making it a great time to explore the city’s lakes, palaces, and museums. The famous Upper Lake and Lower Lake offer serene boat rides, while the city’s historical sites like the Taj-ul-Masajid and Bhimbetka Caves are worth visiting. October also marks the beginning of the festive season in the city.
Best Time: July to March
Known For : Triund Bhagsu Falls Bhagsunag Temple
October brings clear skies and cool weather to McLeod Ganj, making it perfect for exploring the town’s Tibetan heritage and enjoying treks in the surrounding hills. This is also the time when the town is less crowded, allowing for a peaceful retreat amidst nature. Visits to the Namgyal Monastery and the Dalai Lama Temple are particularly spiritual experiences in this serene environment.
Best Time: October to June
Known For : Light and Sound Show, Khajuraho Dulhadev Temple Kandariya Mahadev Temple
Khajuraho’s stunning temples are best visited in October when the weather is neither too hot nor too cold. The intricate carvings of these UNESCO World Heritage temples can be explored comfortably in the mild climate. October also sees the start of cultural festivals that celebrate the art and history of this ancient city.
Best Time: July to March
Known For : Jehangir Mahal, Orchha Fort Ram Raja Temple Raja Mahal, Orchha Fort
October is the ideal time to visit Orchha, a town steeped in history with beautiful palaces, temples, and cenotaphs along the Betwa River. The weather is cool, making it pleasant to explore the town’s heritage sites, such as the Orchha Fort and Chaturbhuj Temple. Orchha’s tranquil setting and historical significance make it a great destination for history buffs and architecture lovers.
Best Time: July to March
Known For : Lingaraj Temple Nandankanan Zoological Park Rajarani Temple
Bhubaneswar, the temple city, enjoys pleasant weather in October, making it perfect for exploring its ancient temples, such as Lingaraj Temple and Mukteswara Temple. The city’s rich history and architecture are complemented by the cultural events and festivals that take place in October. It’s an ideal time to delve into the spiritual and historical significance of this vibrant city.
Best Time: October to March
Known For : Rameshwaram Temple Dhanushkodi Temple and Beach Jatayu Tirtham
In October, the weather in Rameswaram is pleasant, making it an ideal time to visit this important pilgrimage destination. The famous Ramanathaswamy Temple, with its stunning architecture, can be explored comfortably. The town’s beaches and the Pamban Bridge offer scenic views, making Rameswaram a spiritual and scenic retreat.
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Green Valley View (Suicide Point) Kodaikanal Lake Bear Shola Falls
October marks the post-monsoon season in Kodaikanal, and the hill station is draped in lush greenery. The weather is cool and perfect for trekking, boating on the serene Kodai Lake, and exploring attractions like Coaker’s Walk and Pillar Rocks. The misty environment and blooming flowers make Kodaikanal a romantic and peaceful getaway in October.
Best Time: September to May
Known For : Nilgiri Mountain Railway Ooty Lake Emerald Lake, Ooty
Ooty’s cool climate in October offers a refreshing escape from the plains, with pleasant temperatures ideal for exploring the hill station’s tea plantations, botanical gardens, and lakes. The verdant landscapes and clear skies are perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Ooty’s natural beauty is especially captivating during this time of year.
Best Time: Throughout the year
Known For : Shore Temple Mahabalipuram Beach Five Rathas
October is a great time to visit Mahabalipuram, with pleasant weather allowing for comfortable exploration of the ancient rock-cut temples and monuments. The town’s UNESCO-listed Shore Temple and other historical sites are less crowded, making it a peaceful experience. The coastal town’s mix of history and beauty makes it a must-visit in October.
Best Time: November to February
Which of these places to visit in India in October are on your bucket list? Let us know in the comments below!