One of the most strategic moves you could make as a traveller in India is to backpack during November. It is the shoulder season with fewer crowds when the weather is pleasant, the wildlife is most vibrant, and the fall foliage hits. In November, India becomes a jovial land supplemented with scenic sights. There is a nip in the air signalling winter's arrival, and a wave of festivity runs through the streets. In the North, the Himalayan areas receive their first snowfall while the central regions cool down just enough to explore the excessive history. In the South, you'll experience downpours on and off, with the city largely washed up and clean to lose yourself within the lanes and markets.
On such a note, check out our list of 7 best places to visit in India this November.
The Sundarbans is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that holds a special place on the must-visit list for enthusiastic travellers. Situated in the heart of Bengal, this lush mangrove forest ranks high as one of India's finest national parks. Renowned for its Bengal Tiger population, it's also home to diverse wildlife, including jungle cats, foxes, wild boars, and spotted deer. The name "Sundarbans" itself means "beautiful forests," and its natural beauty is a sight to behold. For wildlife enthusiasts, November offers an ideal time to explore this pristine wilderness, making it one of the top wildlife destinations in India during this season.
Absorb the pristine natural beauty of Tin Kona Island; go birdwatching at the Sajnekhali Bird Sanctuary and enjoy the panoramic views of the Sunderbans Tiger Reserve from Sudhanyakhali Watch Tower.
Air: The nearest airport from the Sundarbans National Park is the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata.
Rail: The nearest major railway station is the Sealdah Railway Station and the nearest local railway station is Canning Railway Station.
Road: You can take a vehicle from Kolkata to Canning and from Canning to Godkhali to reach Sundarbans.
Bodhgaya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a significant Buddhist pilgrimage destination. It has several statues, shrines, and Buddhist monasteries, as it is where Lord Buddha is believed to have attained Enlightenment. Bodhgaya is an ideal escape especially during the tranquil month of November, perfect for a family trip. Travellers will encounter the profound teachings and essence of Lord Buddha through various artefacts, monuments, and cultures. In this serene town during November, Buddhist monks from around the world dedicate themselves to chanting sacred scriptures, creating a spiritually enriching atmosphere. The town's holiest gem, the Mahabodhi Temple Complex that King Asoka commissioned is a piece of architecture not to miss. The period from November to March marks the best time to visit Bodhgaya, with moderate temperatures and the arrival of Tibetan pilgrims from Dharamshala, adding to the spiritual aura during this season.
Take a stroll barefooted around the revered Mahabodhi Temple. Visit the Archaeological Museum and browse through its rich collection. Check out the various other magnificent temples and monuments like Metta Buddharam Temple, Thai Monastery, and The Great Buddha Statue.
Air: Gaya International Airport is the nearest airport which is approximately 17 kilometres from the town of Bodh Gaya.
Rail: The nearest rail head is Gaya Junction, which is 13 kilometres away from Bodh Gaya.
Road: A main road (National Highway 22) connects Bodh Gaya to Gaya.
The Rann of Kutch is a salt marsh located in the Thar Desert. The unending expanse of white sands make for a perfect winter landscape during the month of November. Travellers here can witness the Rann Utsav, a festival that goes on for about 2-3 months starting in November. The festival is a carnival full of songs, traditional performances, culture, adventure, and art. The whole of the Kutch looks luminous on full moon nights when the light hits the white sands.
Go on an expedition in the Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary which is the largest seasonal saline wetland. Visit the Kutch Museum to learn about the history and culture of the place and witness the aura of Dholavira, the site known for Indus Valley Civilisation excavations.
Air: The nearest airport is Kutch Airport in Bhuj .
Rail: The railway station in Bhuj will be the easiest way to Kutch.
Road: Take National Highway 8A in Gujarat to reach Kutch.
Kalimpong is an untouched hill station on the foothills of the Himalayas best known for its mesmerising views of the valleys. A sweet attraction of the hill station is its flora that includes lovely gladioli, orchids, cacti, amaryllis, anthuriums, roses and many more species of flowering plants It has beautiful Buddhist monasteries and is believed to have once been ruled by the Bhutanese Kings. The place is just a 50 minute drive from Darjeeling.
When in Kalimpong, do not miss to breathe in the fresh air and absorb the serene views of Deolo Hill. Explore the various monasteries of the place such as the Zong Dhog Palri Fo Brang Monastery and Durpin Monastery. Visit the Pine View Nursery for the most vibrant flora species and witness brilliant architectural style at the Crookety House.
Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra, 80 km away.
Rail: New Jalpaiguri at 77 km and Silliguri at 66 km are the nearest railway stations.
Road: Take taxis from railway or bus stop from Silliguri to reach Kalimpong. It is well connected to all nearby cities.
Bharatpur is a city famous for its park that boasts a brightly rich fauna. It has several ornamental palaces that gloriously add to its beauty. At the heart of the city is the grand 18th century Lohagarh Fort which is surrounded by a moat on all sides. During November, the place transforms into a fauna retreat and witnesses migration of birds from Afghanistan, Turkmenistan, China, and Siberia.
Visit the Keoladeo National Park, also known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, to witness the spectrum of colours formed by the birds migrating in from various countries. You can spot the highly endangered Siberian Crane here in November. Other birds that you can look forward to are pelicans, cranes, warblers, and coots. History buffs can head to the Government Museum inside the Lohagarh Fort.
Air: Agra Airport is the nearest to Bharatpur at 47.1 km.
Rail: The Bharatpur Railway Station is well connected to most nearby cities.
Road: Take the National Highway 21 from any nearby cities to reach Bharatpur.
Dharamshala is a scenic old hill station that is decoratively surrounded by cedar forests. The city is a unique blend of Tibetan and Kangra culture and has been home to the Dalai Lama for several years. In November, travellers can go bird-watching in its picturesque landscapes and lush forests. In addition, you can also look forward to the Dharamshala Film Festival that is about to happen in early November. It will take place in McLeodganj which is just 5 km from Dharamshala.
The hill station is famous for many unique architecture including Church of St. John in the Wilderness, Kalachakra Temple, and Namgyal Monastery. You can also head to Naddi View Point for panoramic views of the place, enjoy near the cascade of the Bhagsunag Waterfall or explore the history and culture at the Himalayan Art Museum.
Air: Gaggal Airport at 15 km from McLeod Ganj is the closest airport.
Rail: Pathankot Station at 86 km is the nearest railway station to Dharamshala.
Road: From Delhi, take NH154 or NH503 to reach Dharamshala.
Gulmarg is a popular tourist destination best known for outdoor activities like skiing apart from its landscapes that turn into a winter wonderland during year ends. The place begins to take up the aura of a romantic getaway as temperatures begin to drop in November. Gulmarg is also well known globally for having the highest operating cable cars in the world.
You can head to Ningle Nallah to see the beautiful mountain streams or go to Afarwat to enjoy skiing. A notable site which is not to miss in Gulmarg is the Baba Reshi Tomb.
Air: Srinagar Airport at 56 km is the nearest airport.
Rail: Gulmarg has no real railway connectivity. The nearest station is at 290 km, the Jammu Tawi station.
Road: Take the Srinagar – Tangmarg Road from Srinagar to reach Gulmarg.