10 Best Places To Visit In October In India

OT Staff

Varanasi

Whether it’s sipping on lemon tea by the banks of the Ganga at dawn or witnessing the aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, Varanasi has something to offer every kind of traveller. In October, the heat and humidity gives way to pleasant weather and a cool breeze.

A view of Varanasi | Shutterstock

Puri

Puri attracts pilgrims to its Jagannath Temple throughout the year. Its beaches and handicraft industry are also a draw for tourists. However, the best time to see the city is from October onwards when the scorching heat and high humidity ebb away.

A purple glow descends on a Puri beach | Shutterstock

Pondicherry

Famous for its unique blend of French and Indian cultures, Pondicherry is characterised by colourful colonial architecture, tree-lined streets and a relaxed coastal vibe. October marks the end of the monsoon season with clear skies and minimal rainfall, making it an ideal time to visit.

Matri Mandir inside Sri Aurobindo Ashram in Auroville | Shutterstock

Aurangabad

The town is used as a base to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Ajanta and Ellora, the mausoleums of Aurangzeb and Bibi ka Maqbara, and the Grishneshwar Temple, one of 12 Jyotirlingas in India. October heralds pleasant weather with clear skies.

Soneri Mahal in Aurangabad | Shutterstock

Kutch

Kutch is renowned for its vast salt deserts, exquisite handicrafts, and a rich tradition of art and culture. The Rann Utsav is a cultural extravaganza held from October to March which showcases the region’s folk music, dance, crafts and local cuisine.

Folk dancers take a break during the Rann Utsav festivities | Shutterstock

Nalanda

Nalanda was widely considered to be among the greatest centres of learning in the ancient world and played a vital role in the growth of arts and academics during the 5th and 6th centuries. October onwards is the best time to visit as the summer heat and monsoon rains recede.

Nalanda is a UNESCO World Heritage Site | Shutterstock

Nainital

Nainital is a picturesque hill station in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. It is known for its serene lakes, lush green hills and pleasant climate. October onwards is one of the best times to visit as it marks the beginning of the winter season.

The hills of Nainital | Shutterstock

Alappuzha

Also known as Alleppey, this place is famous for its boat races, backwater holidays, beaches, marine products and coir industry. October is one of the best times to visit due to the moderate temperature which hovers around 30°C.

A traditional houseboat in Alappuzha | Shutterstock

Pushkar

The tranquil city of Pushkar is situated at a height of 510m and is surrounded by hillocks on three sides. It is renowned for its famous rose. The annual Pushkar Camel Fair begins in late October, making it an ideal time to visit.

A decorated camel at the Pushkar Camel Fair | Shutterstock

Amritsar

Amritsar is the spiritual and cultural centre of the Sikh religion, not least for housing the faith’s holiest shrine, The Golden Temple. From October, the weather turns pleasant and tourist numbers are relatively lower compared to other times during the year.

The iconic Golden Temple of Amritsar | Shutterstock

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