Come October, and India has pleasant weather throughout the country. The country is at its picturesque best, and that makes it the perfect time to travel. Whether you prefer cooler weather, historic places or just want to chill by the beach, October is the perfect month to travel in India. Flights and hotels are usually cheaper than December, while the skies are clearer than in the rainy months. If you’ve been waiting for that “right time,” this is it.
What truly elevates an October itinerary, though, is the festivals; be it Durga Puja, Dussehra or Diwali, the streets are decorated, lantern-lit, temple drums at sundown, while the doorways are decorated in rangoli. In this guide, we have narrowed down the top 15 best places to visit in India in October
Top 15 Best Places to Visit in India in October
October is one of the best months to explore India. The pleasant weather, post-monsoon lush greenery, and a month full of festivals make it a complete immersive experience. From desert forts glowing under blue skies, tea gardens wrapped in mist, sunny beaches reopening after the rains, or wildlife parks coming back to life, this curated list of the top 15 Best places to visit in India in October has something for every kind of traveller.
1. Jodhpur, Rajasthan: The Blue City Experience
Jodhpur’s indigo lanes, mighty Mehrangarh Fort, and sunset views from Jaswant Thada make it one of the best places to visit in Oct. Post-monsoon, the desert heat dips and the skies are clear blue, perfect for fort walks and sightseeing. Book a guided audio tour at Mehrangarh, then zip-line for a bird’s-eye view.
Weather in Oct: 22–33 °C; dry and sunny.
Travel tips: Take a flight to Jodhpur or an overnight train from Delhi/Jaipur. Take a day trip to the Osian dunes for a camel safari.
2. Mysore, Karnataka: Royal Heritage and Dussehra Festivities
October in Mysuru means illuminated palaces and a chance to witness the grand Vijayadashami procession. Between the illuminated Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hill, and vintage markets on Devaraja, you’ll soak in royal history plus food trails.
Weather in Oct: 20–29 °C; pleasant with intermittent light showers.
Travel tips: Reach via Bengaluru or take a train/bus to Mysuru. Book your stay near the palace to walk along the illuminated path. Carry a light rain jacket or umbrella.
3. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand: Adventure and Spirituality
October is a perfect time to visit Rishikesh. The weather is clear and apt for adventure activities. You can enjoy river rafting, zip-lining, and even take a short hike around the Himalayas. For a more peaceful experience, you must witness the remarkable Ganga Aarti by night.
Weather in Oct: 18–28 °C; clear, with cool mornings.
Travel tips: You can book a flight to Dehradun or take a train to Haridwar. For adventure activities, pick certified operators and pack quick-dry layers. Pack modest clothing if you’re visiting ashrams or temples.
4. Kolkata, West Bengal: Pujo Pandals & Culture Overload
You will get to experience Kolkata at its cultural peak during October. Between the Durga Puja pandal-hopping, late-night mishti, dhaak beats, and art installations at every turn, the city is at its vibrant best during this month. Explore College Street for books, Kumartuli for idol-making, and South Kolkata for designer pandals.
Weather in Oct: 24–32 °C; humid, occasional showers.
Travel tips: Use the Metro to beat traffic. Wear cotton and other breathable fabrics; Book hotels early in Ballygunge/Esplanade, as it is the peak season to visit Kolkata.
5. Goa, Goa: Green Beaches Before Peak Season
Goa in October is pleasant post monsoons and less crowded than December. You get lush scenery without the expensive December prices. Go for café hopping in Assagao, sunsets at Anjuna, and heritage walks in Fontainhas. For upbeat and parties, go to North Goa and for a serene wind-down experience, head to South Goa.
Weather in Oct: 25–32 °C; a stray shower possible.
Travel tips: Pre-book water sports and check if your favourite shack is operational.
6. Hampi, Karnataka: Ruins in Golden Light
Hampi’s landscapes come alive in October. It boasts of UNESCO-listed boulder hills, historical ruins, temples and a spectacular sunrise at Hemakuta.
Weather in Oct: 22–33 °C; warm days, cool evenings.
Travel tips: Base yourself near Virupaksha or Hippie Island (via boat). Carry sturdy footwear, a water bottle, and light clothing for making the most out of exploring the place.
7. Darjeeling, West Bengal: Tea & Kanchenjunga Views
Monsoon haze lifts, revealing razor-sharp views of snow peaks from Tiger Hill. Add vintage toy-train rides and lazy tea-estate walks to soak in the landscape.
Weather in Oct: 10–20 °C; crisp and cool.
Travel tips: Carry warm clothing. For exploring, shared cabs are economical.
8. Shillong & Cherrapunji, Meghalaya: Living Root Bridges
Mist-draped valleys, thundering waterfalls, and the iconic double-decker root bridge make Meghalaya a dreamy place to visit in Oct.
Weather in Oct: 16–26 °C; light rain.
Travel tips: Fly into Guwahati, drive 3 – 4 hrs. Keep an extra day for Sohra-Mawlynnong circuit. Sturdy non-slip shoes are essential.
9. Udaipur, Rajasthan: Lakes After the Rains
With serene lakes brimming and bougainvillaea in bloom, Udaipur is postcard-pretty in October. Take a city palace tour by day and stroll gangaur ghat evenings by night.
Weather in Oct: 20–30 °C; dry and pleasant.
Travel tips: Opt for sunrise boat rides to dodge crowds. Book a haveli stay in the old city. Explore the local street food and sweets.
10. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh: Ghats, Ganga & Silk
Varanasi in October is at its peak tourist season, with the weather perfect for exploring and sightseeing. Take morning boat rides, stroll alleys, and immerse in ethereal artis, to experience the culture. It’s warm but not sweltering, and the festive vibe builds through the month.
Weather in Oct: 22–32 °C.
Travel tips: Choose a riverside stay. Use official boat counters at Dashashwamedh to avoid haggling.
11. Amritsar, Punjab: Golden Reflections
The Golden Temple glows under clear skies and early winter light. Opt to visit the temple early to avoid the crowd. Set a day to explore the Partition Museum, immerse in the spectacular Wagah ceremony, and indulge in legendary kulchas, lassi and sweets for a soulful meal.
Weather in Oct: 20–30 °C; cool nights.
Travel tips: Cover your head in the shrine and go pre-dawn for the palki ceremony. Try the heritage walking tour around Town Hall.
12. Ranthambore, Rajasthan: Tigers & Ruined Forts
During October, the parks reopen, foliage changes, and animal sightings increase. It is a good time for a tiger safari at Ranthambore Fort.
Weather in Oct: 20–34 °C; warm days.
Travel tips: Book gypsy/canter safaris early while having a base at Sawai Madhopur. Carry binoculars and light layers.
13. Munnar, Kerala: Tea-Garden Fresh
October is the beginning of the tourist season in Munnar. This is the perfect time to explore the tea gardens, spice trails, or take a boating trip. Shopping around for teas, spices and local delicacies for an immersive experience.
Weather in Oct: 18–26 °C; occasional drizzle.
Travel tips: Pick accommodations with valley views for a picturesque stay. Pack a light pullover as the weather is cool and breezy. If time permits, add a trip to Alleppy for the backwater boat ride and sea food meals.
14. Andaman Islands (Havelock & Neil): Dive Season Begins
October marks the comeback of good diving conditions after the monsoon. This month is perfect as the sea clears and dive shops kick into gear. It is a great time for a fun dive at Elephant Beach or Neil’s coral sites, especially for beginners.
Weather in Oct: 24–30 °C; humidity moderate.
Travel tips: Fly to Port Blair. Pre-book ferries to avoid any queues or waiting time.
15. Kutch, Gujarat (Bhuj, Dhordo & Mandvi): White Desert Vibes
Late October marks the start of the season in the Great Rann Utsav. Think moonlit salt flats, folk music, and crafts at Hodka, with beach breaks at Mandvi. The festival usually runs from October to March.
Weather in Oct: 22–34 °C; dry.
Travel tips: Fly into Bhuj. Book tents early if you’re visiting around full-moon nights. Carry a shawl or sweater for cooler nights.
Also Read: 10 Tips To Enjoy Your Vacation On A Budget
Festivals and Events in October Across India
October is the festival month in India, which will add to your travel experience. Here are the main festivals and events celebrated on a grand scale in India.
- Durga Puja (Sep 22–Oct 2, 2025): Kolkata’s immersive art-meets-faith carnival with themed pandals, dhunuchi naach and bhog.
- Dussehra/Vijayadashami (Oct 2, 2025): Effigy burnings, Ramlila plays, and the iconic Mysuru Dasara procession celebrating the victory of good over evil.
- Karwa Chauth (Oct 10, 2025): A North-Indian fast and moon-sighting ritual observed by married couples. Local markets, especially in the northern part of the country, glow with mehendi and bangles.
- Diwali Week (Oct 18–23, 2025): Dhanteras shopping, Naraka Chaturdashi, Lakshmi Puja, Govardhan Puja, and Bhai Dooj. The country is at its illuminated best. There are colourful rangolis, diyas, and family gatherings indulging in snacks & sweets.
- Chhath Puja (Oct 27–28, 2025): A powerful sun-worship festival across Bihar, UP and parts of Delhi, devotees offer arghya at sunrise and sunset on riverbanks.
- Rann Utsav (from Oct 23, 2025): A culture & crafts festival on Gujarat’s White Desert with tent stays, folk nights, and desert adventures extending into March.
Tip: With railways adding hundreds of festival special trains for Puja/Diwali/Chhath, book early to snag seats and better fares.
Travel Tips for Visiting India in October
The weather is friendly, but crowds and prices can spike around festival dates. A few smart moves keep your trip smooth:
- Book transport early: Due to Puja, Diwali and other festivals, flights & trains fill up quickly. Indian Railways announces special trains; grab those as soon as they drop.
- Carry layers plus a light rain jacket: North and deserts are warm by day, cool by night. The coasts may see the odd shower. Carry an umbrella, just in case.
- Pre-book wildlife trips: Many parks (e.g., Ranthambore) reopen in October, however, permits for popular zones sell out fast.
- Respect local customs: It is ideal to dress modestly at temples and during aartis. Ask before photographing in any shrines, temples or sites.
- Beat festival crowds. Start your day early, use metro systems (Delhi/Kolkata/Bengaluru), and stay near the main attraction to walk back after late-night events.
- Stay hydrated & go easy on street food: Choose busy stalls to try street food. Carry ORS to stay hydrated and limit strolls during the afternoon heat.
- Payments & connectivity. UPI works almost everywhere. Keep a small change for autos and street vendors.
- Safety basics. Keep valuables zipped, use registered taxis, and share live locations with a friend when exploring late.
How to Plan Your October Trip on a Budget with Zype’s Personal Loan?
Festive travel doesn’t have to be expensive. With few smart choices, you can enjoy your October trip on a budget.
- Book flights 4–6 weeks before: The earlier the better. Use fare alerts to get the best deals during Puja/Diwali.
- Trains over flights where possible: Overnight trains save cost. There are many festival special trains; keep an eye out for them and book early.
- Smart Accommodation: Mix stays; 2 nights at a boutique hotel plus 2 at a clean homestay/hostel. In Goa/Hampi, book newer guesthouses a lane off the main beach/market for 20 – 30% lower rates.
- Eat like a local: Thali joints, sweet shops and Gurudwara langars keep food costs tiny and experiences big.
- City passes & free walks: Many cities offer walking tours or museum combos; enquire at tourism offices to know more.
- Micro-itineraries: Focus on one region (e.g., Rajasthan circuit: Jodhpur–Udaipur–Ranthambore) to cut travel time and costs.
- Budget for big-ticket moments: A Ranthambore safari (~₹1,200–₹2,500 pp), Mysore palace illumination show, or scuba intro (Andaman) are worth the experience. Keep a budget aside for such activities.
- Funding options (use responsibly): If you need a cash cushion for bookings, consider a small personal loan from a regulated lender. Digital apps like Zype, typically let you apply in under 6 minutes with basic KYC and, upon approval, disburse loan within 24 hours. Always compare interest rates, fees, and repay on time to avoid extra costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
October marks the transition from monsoon to winter. Expect clear skies in the north, cooler evenings in hill stations, and lush green landscapes in the south. It’s one of the most comfortable months to travel.
Popular, well-connected destinations like Jaipur, Udaipur, Mysuru, Rishikesh, and Goa are generally safe. Stick to tourist areas, book verified stays, and use trusted apps like Zype to plan your finances securely.
Yes, October is packed with celebrations like Durga Puja, Dussehra, Karwa Chauth, Diwali, Bhai Dooj, and Chhath Puja. Travelling during this time lets you experience all the vibrant cultural traditions.
Yes. Booking flights and hotels 4 – 6 weeks early often saves 20–30% of the cost. You can also manage expenses smartly with a Zype personal loan if you need quick funds for bookings.
Hill stations like Darjeeling, Manali, Munnar, and Shillong are ideal to visit in October as they have cool weather, spectacular mountain views, and fewer peak-season crowds, making them perfect hill getaways.
Yes. Goa, Gokarna, and the Andaman Islands are great in October as the monsoon ends, the seas calm, and beach shacks reopen. Prices are also lower than peak December season.
