The month of October begins the official tourist season in India as the weather turns cool and pleasant across the country and remains the same till the end of March. If you too have similar plans, then it is suggested you take a look at the list of 8 places to visit in October and plan your vacation accordingly.
If both sightseeing and adventure are on your mind, then coming to Rishikesh in October can be the best option. The divine city of Rishikesh happens to be home to several ghats, admired temples, and the famous – Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula. Considered as the Yoga Capital of India, Rishikesh also offers different avenues for adventure junkies – white river rafting, bunjee jumping, ziplining and camping along the banks of river Ganga.
Agra, situated on the banks of the Yamuna River, is home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World – Taj Mahal, which has put the city’s name on the list of each passionate traveler in the world. The splendour of this monument happens to be far from being articulated in words; it can be only witnessed and loved. October presents the ideal weather to explore this beautiful piece of architecture and many such notable Mughal structures dotted in and around the city.
October is probably the most awaited month for the people of Kolkata as the festivities take centre stage with ‘Durga Pujo’. There is happiness on everyone’s face and sparkle in their eyes as they prepare to welcome their revered deity – Goddess Durga. The festivities last for a week or so and the entire city comes alive with families hopping from one spectacularly decorated Puja pandal to the other to receive blessings from Maa Durga. Come to Kolkata in October to witness this grand celebration, and you will be completely awestruck!
Mysore – the City of Palaces – is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South India. There are some amazing attractions to visit in the city, but the most prominent among them is the Mysore Palace – a must-visit, especially during October when the Dusshera Festival use to be celebrated here in the outstanding manner. It is witnessed by thousands of devotees. While in Mysore, make sure to shop for sandalwood products and silk sarees; two things that have made Mysore even more famous.
Named after the “Satpura ki Rani” – Pachmarhi in Madhya Pradesh – is one of the picturesque hill stations of India. According to legends, during their exile, the Pandavas had lived in the Pachmarhi Hills. In 1857, a British officer named Captain James Forsyth discovered this picturesque region and since then it has drawn the attention of all avid travelers to Madhya Pradesh. The Pachmarhi Hills offer an opportunity to explore the mystical caves of Pandavas, visit some locally revered temples and indulge in adventure activities, for which the place has made a name for itself in recent years.
Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Karnataka, once the seat of the erstwhile Vijaynagar Kingdom, is famous for its ruins of monolithic structures, temples, and monuments. The Hindu style of architecture of these historical structures is worth witnessing, especially that of the Virupaksha Temple, which is dedicated to the patron deity of the kingdom. You can plan a trip to this city if you are looking for some solitude and love exploring historical buildings.
This Lahaul Spiti district, situated in the foothills of the Himalayas in Himachal Pradesh, is one of the best places in the country for trekking due to its unique terrain. Despite being devoid of any greenery, this region looks stunning and its scenery is something to witness in a lifetime. Home to some important Buddhist monasteries, the district attracts devotees as well as people looking for a real adventure. October is a great time to come here for sightseeing and trekking.
Considered among the top hill stations of India, Darjeeling in West Bengal attracts tourists from all parts of the year, and since its weather remains extremely pleasant in October, sightseeing becomes an absolutely fantastic experience. Add to that the panoramic views of the rolling hills dotted with orchids, rhododendrons and pine trees; tea gardens and Mount Kanchenjunga in the backdrop; it doesn’t get any better than this!
In October, when autumn has already arrived in India, the festivals of Dussera and Durga Puja are celebrated. Processions in honour of the goddess Durga take place in Delhi and Calcutta, with dances and prayers. This festival consists of six celebrations: Mahalaya, Maha Shashthi, Maha Saptami, Maha Ashtami, Maha Navami and Vijayadashami.
It is highly recommended to travel to Mysore to experience its cultural festival before reaching the shores of Tamil Nadu and Kerala. The main attraction of the Mysore Festival, which is celebrated for ten days, is the Mysore Palace, which is illuminated daily with nearly 100,000 bulbs that are lit up on those days from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
If you are going to travel to India in October you should know that it is safari season: the October climate in India is very suitable for safaris and the traveler will be able to admire some of the most spectacular animals in India, such as panthers, tigers or elephants.
Q1. Which is the best place to visit in October in India?
A. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
One of the best tourist places in India to visit in October, enveloped in enviable beauty, the “Queen of Hills” is famous for its enchanting landscapes and pleasant weather
Q2. Where is there snow in October in India?
A. Leh, Ladakh
Known for its rugged beauty and high-altitude landscapes, Leh often experiences snow early in October. The region’s monasteries, picturesque lakes and mountain passes offer a breathtaking experience when covered in fresh snow.
Q3. What is India like in October?
A. The days are usually hot and the nights mild, so it is advisable to wear light and cool clothing. The average daily maximum temperature is 33 °C and the average daily minimum temperature is 24 °C.