Planning a trip this autumn? October is one of the best times to plan an India tour , thanks to its pleasant weather, festive spirit, and amazing views. It’s that sweet spot of the year when the weather is just right almost everywhere, and perfect for travelers who want to explore without the discomfort of extreme heat.
Cities and cultural hubs also become more welcoming, with heritage walks, food trails and festivals creating a lively atmosphere. In this blog, we will explore the best places to visit in India in October, covering destinations that combine great weather, natural beauty and unique experiences.
18 Best Places to Visit in October in India
Bir Billing, often called the paragliding capital of India, is one of the best places to visit in October in India. The weather during this month is cool and pleasant, with temperatures ranging between 10 and 20 Degrees Celsius, making it perfect for adventure activities as well as sightseeing.
Also, October marks the beginning of the paragliding season, which usually runs from October to June. Apart from this, this month is also great for trekking, camping and exploring nearby monasteries and Tibetan settlements.
Things to do: Paragliding, trekking, camping, spiritual and cultural experiences.
Visiting Jammu and Kashmir in October is a magical experience, as the region transitions into autumn. The weather is cool and crisp, with average temperatures ranging between 7 and 18 Degrees Celsius.
One of the highlights of October in Kashmir is the autumn foliage. The famous China trees turn shades of gold, red, and orange, giving Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam a picturesque charm.
Things to do: Experience autumn, trekking in Sonamarg, relax in Pahalgam, Wildlife safaris, adventure and offbeat activities.
Visiting Lahaul and Spiti in October is a raw and unforgettable experience. The valley looks peaceful after the monsoon, creating postcard-like views.
This is the time when you can still travel through most of the region, visit ancient monasteries like Key and Dhankar, explore quiet villages such as Kaza, Kibber, and Langza, and if lucky, make a trip to Chandratal Lake before the roads close.
The tourist season begins to wind down, so you will find fewer crowds and more silence!
Things to do: Visit the ancient monasteries, Chandratal Lake, explore local villages, short treks and hikes, stargazing, photography, and scenic drives
October is one of the best times to be in Rishikesh. The heavy rains are gone, and the Ganga flows calmly with a sparkle under the autumn sun.
You can sit quietly by the river, join a yoga session at an ashram, or head out for adventure with rafting, bungee jumping, and short treks in the nearby forests. Also, the evenings become magical in October, with Ganga aarti lighting up the ghats in a mix of chants, diyas, and devotion.
Things to do: Embrace yoga, explore the Beatles Ashram, hiking, wildlife safari, and witness the Ganga Aarti
Jodhpur - one of the best tourist places in India to visit in October, when you feel warm but comfortable days, and the evenings are perfect.
This is the time when you really enjoy the city, exploring Mehrangarh Fort, wandering through local bazaars, or visiting Jaswant Thada for a quiet sunset. The monsoon leaves behind a cleaner, fresher look to the city, and the festive season brings an extra dose of energy.
Things to do: Explore Mehrangarh Fort, Visit Jaswant Thada, stroll through the Blue lanes, shopping, tour Umaid Bhawan Palace, and try local food.
Goa in October feels like a fresh start. The crowds haven’t fully arrived yet, so you can enjoy the beaches with more space and quiet.
Beach shacks begin reopening, and water sports slowly come back to life. It’s that time in-between when Goa is lively but not overwhelming but still being one of the amazing places to see in October in India, with lazy afternoons, Goan food or exploring forts and villages.
Things to do: Relax on the beaches, try water sports, explore old Goa, visit spice plantations, discover forts and sunset points, Experience Goa’s nightlife and go island hopping
Andamans is a great idea in October! If you are looking for the best places to visit in October in India, it is the one!
You can enjoy scuba diving, snorkeling and sea walks in places like Havelock and Neil Island, where coral reefs and marine life look fresh and vibrant. Beaches like Radhangar, Elephant Beach and Kalapathar are at their scenic best, with fewer crowds compared to peak winter.
You can also explore historical sites like the Cellular jail in Port Blair, go island hopping, or take a boat to see more.
Things to do: Relax on stunning beaches, Go scuba diving, try water adventures, explore Cellular Jail in Port Blair, Visit Baratang Island, trekking.
Nainital in October has a charm of its own and is often counted among the best places to visit in October in India.
Days are comfortable for boating on Naini Lake or walking around Mall Road or any other adventure activities, while evenings are chilly enough for a hot cup of tea and some local snacks. The crowds are smaller compared to summer, which makes exploring viewpoints like Snow View Point and Tiffin Top more enjoyable.
Things to do: Boating on Naini Lake, stroll on Mall road, visit Snow View Point, Trek, relax in Eco Cave Gardens, enjoy local food.
9. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Varanasi, one of the oldest living cities in the world, is among the most spiritual places to visit in India during October. The weather becomes pleasant after the long monsoon, with cooler mornings and evenings perfect for exploring the ghats along the Ganga.
October is also the start of the festive season, with Navratri and Diwali bringing extra vibrance to the city. A boat ride at sunrise, when the ghats slowly come alive with chants and rituals, is an unforgettable experience this time of the year.
You can also visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple, wander through narrow lanes and witness the Ganga aarti.
Things to do: Sunrise boat ride, witness Ganga aarti, Visit Kashi Vishwanath temple, explore the Ghats, discover narrow lanes, and experience festivals.
10. Golden Temple, Amritsar
The Golden Temple in Amritsar is one of the best places to go in October in India, offering both peace and cultural richness. The weather is pleasant, with cool mornings and evenings that make visiting this place and exploring the city comfortable.
This month also marks the start of Punjab’s festive season, with Diwali preparations adding extra vibrance to the city. A trip to Amritsar in October gives you the perfect vibe.
Things to do: Visit the Golden Temple, witness the Wagah Border ceremony, explore Jallianwala Bagh, shop, enjoy Amritsari cuisine, experience Diwali vibes
Visiting Udaipur in October is a delightful experience and is often counted among the best tourist places in India to visit in October. The weather stays pleasant, making it perfect for sightseeing, boating and leisurely walks through the old city.
Enjoy a serene boat ride on Lake Pichola, explore the grandeur of the City Palace and watch a golden sunset from Sajjangarh.
Things to do: Boat ride on Lake Pichola, Explore the City Palace, watch the sunset at Sajjangarh, Stroll around Fateh Sagar Lake, Visit Jagdish temple.
Visiting Mysore in October is a delightful experience and is often considered among the best places to visit in October in India.
Also, it is the time of the grand Mysore Dasara Festival, a spectacular 10-day celebration featuring royal processions, cultural performances and the iconic Mysore Palace lit up with thousands of lights.
Beyond this, you can visit Chamundi Hills, Brindavan Gardens and St. Philomena’s Church, or shop for Mysore silk and sandalwood.
Things to do: Experience Mysore Dasara Festival, visit Mysore Palace, Explore Chamundi Hills, discover St. Philomena’s Church, Visit Mysore Zoo, Shop for Mysore silk
October brings a new charm to Pondicherry, the city looks brighter! It’s no surprise that Pondicherry is counted among the best places to go in October in India.
From strolling along the Rock Beach Promenade to exploring Aurobindo Ashram and the global community of Auroville, the town has something for everyone. Add to that the cozy cafes, French-inspired bakeries, and peaceful beaches!
Things to do: Stroll along Rock Beach Promenade, explore the French Quarter, visit Aurobindo Ashram and Auroville, Go Cafe hopping, discover church and take a cycling tour.
If you are looking for refreshing hill escapes, Ooty in October is one of the most relaxing places to see in October in India. This is the month when Ooty feels calm and less crowded, letting you enjoy boat rids on Ooty Lake, a ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway or quiet moments at Doddabetta Peak without any rush.
Things to do: Take a ride on Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Boating at Ooty Lake, Visit the Botanical Gardens, Hike to Doddabetta Peak, Go for a day trip to Coonoor, try local food
October changes the mood of Ladakh completely. The tourist rush is gone and the mountains start having snow. It’s one of those rare places to see in October in India where the beauty of Pangong Lake, Nubra Lake or Tso Moriri feels unimaginable.
The monasteries too - Hemis, Thiksey, Diskit become quieter, giving you the time to sit and soak in their calm. Roads to Leh remain open in early October, though you may catch a springle of snow on high passes like Khardung La.
Things to do: Visit Pangong Lake, Explore Nubra Valley, Admire monasteries, stargazing, drive through high passes, explore Leh town.
16. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
It’s no wonder Shimla is often listed among the best places to visit in October in India, with its pleasant weather and views. Temperatures usually range between 10 Degrees Celsius and 20 Degrees making it perfec for sightseeing and long walks.
You can explore Jakhoo Temple, Christ Church, Kufri and Mashobra or simply sit back and enjoy the best views.
Things to do: Walk around Mall road, Visit Jakhoo temple, Explore Christ Church, Take a toy train ride, day trip to Kufri, relax in Mashobra, Visit Shimla State Museum
17. Darjeeling, West Bengal
October is when Darjeeling truly feels alive. The monsoon has passed, leaving the hill fresh, green and full of life. It’s also the season when Darjeeling shines as one of the best places to visit in October in India, thanks to its cool weather, tea estates, and stunning Himalayan View.
With lesser crowds compared to the summer months, October gives you space to explore monasteries, gardens and local markets at your own pace.
Things to do: Watch sunrise at Tiger Hill, Ride the toy train, stroll through tea gardens, visit Batasia Loop and War Memorial, explore monasteries
Exploring Hampi in October is like stepping back into history with the comfort of pleasant weather. The post-monsoon greenery makes the rocky hills, palm groves and centuries old-temple ruins look fresh and alive.
It’s no wonder that Hampi is often listed among the most fascinating places to visit in India during October! You can spend your days exploring iconic spots like the Virupaksha Temple, Vittala Temple and the royal enclosures.
