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As the monsoon season recedes and the sweltering heat of summer mellows into bearable warmth across India's Northern and Southern Plains, October emerges as a delightful window for travellers. If you're contemplating a journey during this picturesque month, look no further. We've curated a list of the most enchanting places to visit in India in October. With the weather at its best, it's the perfect time for sightseeing tours and outdoor adventures, promising unforgettable vacations. From the Himalayan heights to the tranquil Keralan backwaters, from the golden sands of Rajasthan's deserts to the lush green valleys of the Northeast, October has something special in store for families and adventurers alike.
Nestled amidst pineapple shrubs and lush conifer hills, the British ha hailed Shillong as the 'Scotland of the East'. Perched at an altitude of 1491 meters above sea level, Shillong exudes an otherworldly charm that has drawn travellers since the days of British colonial rule. The soothing climate of Shillong in October makes it one of the finest places to visit in Northeast India.
Where to Stay: Hotel Polo Towers, Pinewood Hotel, Café Shillong Bed and Breakfast.
Getting There: Shillong lacks its railway station, with the nearest being Guwahati Junction in Assam, approximately 104 km away. The closest airport, Umroi, is roughly 35 km from Shillong.
Kerala beckons as one of the prime places to visit in South India, particularly for honeymooners. Sandwiched between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats, Kerala casts a spell with its rich culture, pristine beaches, palm-fringed backwaters, and age-old Ayurveda traditions. It boasts 600 km of coastline, offering waterways and beaches, delectable cuisine, vibrant snake boat races, lush green fields, serene hill stations, classical dance forms, temples, and more.
Where to Stay: Kochi Marriott Hotel, Eco Garden Resort, Thrissur, Crowne Plaza, Kochi, Le Celestium, Munnar.
Getting There: Kerala is well-connected to the world and India through three international airports in Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, and Calicut.
Ladakh, known as the 'land of high passes,' boasts one of India's most spectacular landscapes. In October, Ladakh graces travellers with comfortable and pleasant weather conditions, making it a top choice for adventurers and peace-seekers alike. With its arid terrains, majestic mountains, fluttering prayer flags, splendid Gompas, and vibrant festivals, Ladakh creates a mesmerizing tableau that's hard to forget.
Where to Stay: Hotel Shambhala, Hotel Grand Dragon, The Pangong Hotel, Hotel Rafica.
Getting There: The Kushok Bakula Rimpoche Airport is the sole airport in Leh Ladakh, well-connected to Delhi, Srinagar, Jammu, and Chandigarh. The nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi, approximately 708 km from Leh.
A feast for the eyes, a trekker's paradise, and a wildlife enthusiast's dream, the Valley of Flowers has it all. Accessible via a scenic 16 km trek from Govind Ghat, this natural wonder is a testament to Mother Nature's artistry. You can visit the valley until the mid-week of October before the weather makes the region inaccessible. Trekking is only permitted during daylight hours, and visitors must obtain a permit available in Ghangaria village, valid for three days.
Where to Stay: Ghangharia Camp, Sri Nanda Lokpal Palace, Hotel Bhagat.
Getting There: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the nearest airport to the Valley of Flowers. From there, the journey continues by road to Govindghat, the starting point for the 16 km trek to the valley.
Ziro, a picturesque town in Arunachal Pradesh, is celebrated for its terraced rice fields and pine-clad hills. A visit to this tranquil haven is akin to stepping into the verdant pastures of Scotland. Ziro is not only unique due to its natural beauty but also because of its cultural significance. It's home to the Apatani Tribe and holds the UNESCO crown as a heritage site.
The annual Ziro Festival, held in September, is a compelling reason to visit, as is the pleasant climate in September and October. Ziro proudly claims its place as one of the best destinations to explore in these months.
Where to Stay: Kasa Resort, Hotel Zimin, Vamoose Kamala Villa, Vamoose Trail.
Getting There: The nearest airport is Tezpur Airport, situated 280 km away and connected by numerous connecting flights. From there, a bus or taxi ride to Ziro is a picturesque journey worth experiencing.