India is a large country spanning deserts, coastlines, plains, and Himalayan mountains, so "the best time to visit" depends heavily on which regions are on your itinerary.
Winter (October to March)
This is the most popular season for first-time visitors and the best overall window for the Golden Triangle (Delhi, Agra, Jaipur), Rajasthan's deserts, and most of central and northern India — daytime temperatures are comfortable, though North Indian mornings and evenings (especially December-January) can be genuinely cold, and Delhi can see dense winter fog affecting flights.
Summer (April to June)
Extremely hot across most of the plains, including Delhi, Agra, and Rajasthan, with temperatures regularly exceeding 40°C (104°F) — generally not recommended for first-time sightseeing-heavy itineraries in these regions, though hill stations like Manali, Shimla, and Ooty are at their best during this season as an escape from the heat.
Monsoon (June to September)
Brings heavy rain to most of the country, especially the west coast (Kerala, Goa, Mumbai) and northeast — travel can be complicated by flooding and landslides in hilly areas, though it is also when landscapes are at their greenest, and hill destinations like Munnar and the Western Ghats are lush and dramatic.
Regional Exceptions
Kerala's backwaters are pleasant from September through March. Ladakh and high-Himalayan regions are only accessible May through September/October, as mountain passes close in winter. Goa's peak season runs November to February, both for weather and its Christmas-New Year party season.
The Simple Rule of Thumb
For a first trip covering the Golden Triangle and most of central/northern India, October to March is by far the safest and most comfortable choice.
