Best Places to Visit in India in October
October is also the beginning of the festive season in India and is usually the month when temperatures start becoming cooler, making the climate suitable for travel. Travelers get to see everything ranging from the tea gardens of Munnar to the desert sand of Jaisalmer all in a span of this month. If you are interested in scenic, colorful and beautiful places, fun and exciting festivals, and fascinating history, then October is a great time to go. Here below is a list of top 20 must-visit places in India in the month of October that make your journey joyful. Every destination is selected based on its attractions, good weather, and the countless things one can do there. With beautiful sceneries and different sort of adrenaline rush based on the traveler’s preference either if they want to relax or go on safari, these destinations could not be anything less than amazing. Check out this post and discover the vacation of your dreams for October!
- Auli, Uttarakhand
- Jaipur, Rajasthan
- Udaipur, Rajasthan
- Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
- Hampi, Karnataka
- Manali
- Ranikhet, Uttarakhand
- Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
- Matheran, Maharashtra
- Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
- Jodhpur, Rajasthan
- Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh
- Mysore, Karnataka
- Alleppey, Kerala
- Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
- Amritsar, Punjab
- Coorg, Karnataka
- Pondicherry
- Munnar
Auli, Uttarakhand
Auli, a prominent skiing area, is a charming place to be in October. The weather is cool and the view of the mountains is breathtaking, making it one of the best places to go for a vacation. Auli is popular for its unspoiled skiing slopes and spectacular views of Himalayan ranges such as Nanda Devi and other mountains. One of the attractions that has a calm environment is the Auli Artificial Lake which is one of the highest man made lakes in the world. October’s favorable weather makes it ideal for engaging in Auli’s sightseeing or participating in its outdoor activities.
- Location: Auli, Uttarakhand, India
- Open/Close Times: Attractions are generally accessible throughout the day.
- How to Reach:
- By Air: Jolly Grant Airport is approximately 280 km away.
- By Rail: Rishikesh Railway Station is the nearest major railhead, with a drive to Auli.
Jaipur, Rajasthan
The pink city of India – Jaipur – is famous for its palaces and forts, being the capital state of Rajasthan. October is also more appropriate for sightseeing, especially if you have an interest in architecture, as the city is home to such landmarks as the Amer Fort and the Hawa Mahal. One of the attractions is the Amer Fort which is situated on a hilltop and offers a stunning view of the city; it is a classical example of Rajput architecture. Jaipur’s characteristic charm, which is embodied in the ornate façade of the Hawa Mahal, has remained unchanged even today. The popular local markets of Johari Bazaar and Tripolia Bazar are ideal for buying souvenirs like Rajasthani crafts and trinkets. October is also the onset of the festive season and brings various festivals such as the Jaipur Literature Festival and so on that make the city culturally alive.
- Location: Jaipur, Rajasthan
- Open/Close Times: Amer Fort is open from 8 AM to 5:30 PM; Hawa Mahal is open from 9 AM to 4:30 PM.
- How to Reach:
- By Air: Jaipur International Airport connects to major cities across India.
- By Rail: Jaipur Railway Station is a major junction with numerous trains connecting to other cities.
Udaipur, Rajasthan
Udaipur or the City of Lakes is an amazing place that provides a royal vacation in the month of October. The city also features some of the most beautiful lakes, among them the famous and beautiful Lake Pichola that borders the impressive City Palace. The palace is a maze and its construction shows the history of the royalty; the scenic beauty of the lakes and hills is incredible when seen from the palace. The island of Jag Mandir and the exclusive Lake Palace on Lake Pichola: these places only intensify the spirit of love. The cool and dry weather of October is ideal for walking through the tight streets in the old part of the city, shopping in the interesting local bazaars, and riding boats on the lake. The fairs and festivals that are celebrated during the period are the Mewar Festival which depicts the cultural and classical dance of the royal city of Udaipur.
- Location: Udaipur, Rajasthan
- Open/Close Times: City Palace is open from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM; boat rides generally operate from 9 AM to 6 PM.
- How to Reach:
- By Air: Udaipur Airport connects to major cities like Delhi and Mumbai.
- By Rail: Udaipur Railway Station has good connectivity to various cities across India.
Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
October is a good time to visit Kodaikanal, a popular hill station located in the state of Tamil Nadu because of the cool weather and beautiful looks. There are also beautiful lakes in the town including Kodai Lake where you can have boat rides surrounded by big trees. Take a walk at Coaker’s Walk, a beautiful spot that offers an excellent view of natural greenery that is prevalent in the town or visit Bryant Park, which is an equally beautiful place with natural beauty. The Pillar Rocks and the beautiful Silver Cascade Waterfalls are two prominent places of interest. The cool climate of Kodaikanal is pleasant in October, ideal for visiting places that are less crowded and serene in the month of October.
- Location: Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu, India
- Open/Close Times: Attractions are generally accessible from 8 AM to 6 PM.
- How to Reach:
- By Air: Madurai Airport is about 120 km away.
- By Rail: Kodai Road Railway Station is around 80 km away, with a scenic drive to Kodaikanal.
Hampi, Karnataka
Hampi is a world heritage site famous for its historical monuments and stunning geographical features. The last one starts in October and the weather during this month is again suitable for visiting the famous historical sites of Vijayanagar. One of the most popular tourist attractions, Virupaksha Temple, is the Dravidian architectural masterpiece dedicated to Lord Shiva. Another architectural wonder at the Vittala Temple complex is the Stone Chariot complete with stone carvings of wheels. The city’s unique ruins, including the Royal Enclosure and Hampi Bazaar, offer a glimpse into the grandeur of the Vijayanagara Empire. October’s cooler temperatures enhance the experience of exploring these ancient sites and enjoying the picturesque surroundings of Hampi.
- Location: Hampi, Karnataka, India
- Open/Close Times: Ruins are generally accessible from sunrise to sunset.
- How to Reach:
- By Air: Hubli Airport is the nearest major airport.
- By Rail: Hospet Railway Station is well-connected and serves as a gateway to Hampi.
Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Situated in the Beas River Valley Manali is a famous hill station that provides both excitement and leisure. It is in April and the weather is relatively cold compared to other seasons, which makes it ideal for ecological tourism. Visit Solang Valley for adventurous activities like paragliding or the zip-lining; you can also enjoy the sightseeing tour. Himachal Pradesh has many places of tourist interest that are cultural as well as natural, but one of the most interesting places to visit for temple lovers is the Hidimba Devi Temple situated in the forest area. Wander through Old Manali to experience its traditional charm and vibrant local culture, and don’t miss the Manali Sanctuary for some serene nature walks.
- Location: Manali, Himachal Pradesh
- Open/Close Times: Accessible year-round
- How to Reach:
- By Air: Fly to Kullu-Manali Airport (KUU), about 50 km from Manali. The airport offers flights from major cities like Delhi and Chandigarh.
- By Rail: The nearest major railway station is in Chandigarh, roughly 300 km away. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to reach Manali.
Ranikhet, Uttarakhand
Ranikhet located in the Kumaon hills is a picturesque hill station with beauty that comprises a tourist attraction to visit in October. Due to the cool climate and stunning view of hills, the place is perfect for those who seek some time off from the noisy city life. Similarly, discover other interesting places like the Jhula Devi Temple which is known for the bells and the Rani Jheel which is so beautiful and often referred to as a picnic spot. A fairway surrounded by pine and oak trees gives a splendid look of green and is a perfect place to take a walk. The beauty of the rolling hills and the verdant meadows is particularly spectacular in October and the surroundings are very calm and serene.
- Location: Ranikhet, Uttarakhand, India
- Open/Close Times: Most attractions are accessible from sunrise to sunset.
- How to Reach:
- By Air: Pantnagar Airport is the nearest airport, about 50 km away.
- By Rail: Kathgodam Railway Station is around 80 km away, with a scenic drive to Ranikhet.
Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Rishikesh, titled as International Yoga Capital, is in the perfect environment in October with pleasant climate and calm atmosphere. The town has a reputation for spirituality and fasting, which makes it one of the best places to practice yoga and meditation. The Ganges flowing gracefully with the Himalayas in the backdrop makes for a serene environment to meditate and rejuvenate. Engage in yoga classes or meditation sessions in ashrams such as Parmarth Niketan and Sivananda Ashram. The evening Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat is an inspiring and powerful religious event that attracts tourists from different parts of the globe. The town also has adventure features such as white water rafting and trekking that are most enjoyable in the October mild climatic conditions.
- Location: Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
- Open/Close Times: Most attractions are accessible from 6 AM to 7 PM.
- How to Reach:
- By Air: Jolly Grant Airport, about 35 km away, connects Rishikesh with major cities.
- By Rail: Rishikesh Railway Station provides good connectivity to Haridwar and Delhi.
Matheran, Maharashtra
October is a perfect time for a cool and serene vacation at Matheran, a hill station near Mumbai. The town exudes colonial architecture, and is auto-free, which makes walking around a rather pleasant experience. Visit different spots for the lookout like the Panorama Point and the Echo Point from where you gain a vantage view of the hills and valleys around. The beautiful natural environment of mountains and trees along with the mostly well-preserved buildings from the colonial period enhance the attractiveness of the town. Matheran is also famous for the toy train that offers a romantic tour of the hill station and the nearby Western Ghats. The warm weather in the month of October also adds to the overall experience of sightseeing in Matheran and taking some time off from the hustle and bustle of city life.
- Location: Matheran, Maharashtra, India
- Open/Close Times: Most attractions are accessible from sunrise to sunset.
- How to Reach:
- By Air: Mumbai Airport is about 90 km away.
- By Rail: Neral Railway Station is the nearest railhead, with a toy train connection to Matheran.
Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
Situated in the heart of the Thar Desert, Jaisalmer, or the Golden City, looks particularly golden in October with its sandstone structures and massive sand dunes. Jaisalmer Fort is another historical site that falls under the UNESCO World Heritage Site, highly recommended for tourists to visit and explore. The fort therefore boasts of high walls and is adorned with excellent carvings that speak of its medieval glory. There are sand dunes of Sam in the vicinity of the city, where tourists can take camel rides and watch the enchanting view of dusk over the Sahara Desert. The city’s bustling markets; such as Sadar Bazaar and Manek Chowk can be useful in buying authentic Rajasthani artefacts and ornaments. October’s weather is good for sightseeing, and the tourist attractions in Jaisalmer include forts, palaces, and busy markets.
- Location: Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
- Open/Close Times: Jaisalmer Fort and other attractions are generally open from 9 AM to 5 PM.
- How to Reach:
- By Air: Jaisalmer Airport connects to major cities like Delhi and Mumbai.
- By Rail: Jaisalmer Railway Station is well-connected to cities such as Jaipur and Delhi.
Jodhpur, Rajasthan
Jodhpur is a lovely city to visit because of its mesmerizing history and colorful culture known as the Blue City. October also remains favorable for sightseeing with a pleasant climate which is perfect to visit the various forts and palaces in the city. Located on a rocky hill, Mehrangarh Fort is an architectural masterpiece, and the beautiful city views, the galleries, and the bright painted structures within the fortress walls are unforgettable. The Umaid Bhawan Palace, a luxurious residence of the former Maharaja, adds to the city’s regal charm. The bustling Sardar Market is perfect for shopping traditional Rajasthani handicrafts and textiles. The city’s blue-painted houses, which give it the name Blue City, create a unique and picturesque ambiance that is particularly enjoyable in the cooler October weather.
- Location: Jodhpur, Rajasthan
- Open/Close Times: Mehrangarh Fort is open from 9 AM to 5 PM; Umaid Bhawan Palace has varying timings.
- How to Reach:
- By Air: Jodhpur Airport connects to major cities such as Delhi and Mumbai.
- By Rail: Jodhpur Railway Station is well-connected with a range of trains from various cities.
Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh
October is particularly interesting in Khajuraho, which is famous for its temples. The town came to prominence through its temples that have been listed as the UNESCO World Heritage Site and are famous for their complexity and obscene sculptures. The Western Group of Temples, such as Kandariya Mahadev Temple, is particularly noteworthy for its art and architectural masterpieces. It is nice to visit these historical sites during the early fall when the weather is not extremely hot – just perfect for a day trip in Oct. Furthermore, there is Khajuraho Dance Festival in October that showcases Indian classical dances to capture culturally vibrant aspects of the country as well as tourist attractions.
- Location: Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh, India
- Open/Close Times: Temples are generally open from 8 AM to 6 PM.
- How to Reach:
- By Air: Khajuraho Airport connects with major cities like Delhi and Varanasi.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Khajuraho, which connects to several major cities.
Mysore, Karnataka
October can be quite pleasant in the city of Mysore famous for its palaces and colourful festivals. Mysore is well-known for the Mysore Palace built in the Indo-Saracenic style which is lit during the Dasara festival. You can capture excellent views of the city from the Chamundi Hill Temple and also you can visit one of the oldest zoos in India—Mysore Zoo. One of the places of interest within easy reach from the city is the Brindavan Gardens, which are approximately 30 km from Mysore, famous for the musical fountain and well-kept gardens. The travel experience is equally enjoyable in October because it is not too hot to visit and sight-see at the historic and cultural sites in Mysore.
- Location: Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir
- Open/Close Times: Mysore Palace is open from 10 AM to 5:30 PM; Brindavan Gardens timings vary.
- How to Reach:
- By Air: Mysore Airport connects with Bangalore and other major cities.
- By Rail: Mysore Junction is well-connected to major cities across India.
Alleppey, Kerala
Alleppey, also referred to as Alappuzha is a famous backwater and houseboat cruise tourism destination. October is not too hot and not too cold and, therefore, it is ideal to take a boat ride and behold the beauty of the backwater. A leisurely ride on the houseboat through the calm and clear water also provides a wonderful ride where visitors get a vantage of seeing the people and the beautiful scenery. A houseboat cruise through the tranquil waterways offers a unique and relaxing experience, with opportunities to observe local life and lush landscapes. Visit the picturesque Vembanad Lake and explore the charming village life along the backwaters. The October weather enhances the experience of cruising through Alleppey’s serene and scenic waterways.
- Location: Alleppey/Kumarakom, Kerala
- Open/Close Times: Houseboat cruises are available throughout the day; timings may vary.
- How to Reach:
- By Air: Cochin International Airport is approximately 85 km away.
- By Rail: Alleppey Railway Station is well-connected with major cities in Kerala.
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Varanasi, a city founded thousands of years ago in India, accommodates spiritual and cultural tourism perfectly fine in October. The city also has many ghats beside the sacred River Ganges where people perform their rituals and ceremonies throughout the day. One of the major attractions for me is the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat that provides a deeply spiritual experience. Some famous landmarks which are worth visiting include the narrow winding streets, colorful markets, and the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple. The weather in October is quite good and it is good for a leisurely stroll across the old streets of the city and get introduced to the traditions of the place.
- Location: Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
- Open/Close Times: Ghats and temples are generally accessible from early morning until late evening.
- How to Reach:
- By Air: Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport connects with major cities like Delhi and Mumbai.
- By Rail: Varanasi Junction is well-connected and serves as a major railway hub.
Amritsar, Punjab
Amritsar is one of the most significant places in India, it is home of the Golden Temple and many important historical events also happened here. October is the best time because the temperature is a bit low and the Golden Temple is one of the most fascinating temples located in this region highlighting the beautiful structure, atmosphere, and serenity of the temple. The golden dome and the holy tank which also gives a reflection of the inner part of the temple provide a peaceful environment for praying. The Jallianwala Bagh Memorial nearby is an appropriate monument depicting the year 1919 and the history related to India. The Wagah Border closing ceremony happens daily and is a fiercely nationalistic and dramatic reenactment of closing the India-Pakistan border. Available local food items such as Amritsari kulcha and chole also make food enthusiasts attracted towards the city as a cultural hub.
- Location: Golden Temple is open 24/7; Jallianwala Bagh is open from 6 AM to 7 PM.
- Open/Close Times: Accessible year-round
- How to Reach:
- By Air: Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport connects to major cities.
- By Rail: Amritsar Junction is well-connected and serves as a major railway hub.
Coorg, Karnataka
Located in southern India and famous for its coffee estates and pretty scenery, Coorg becomes a delight in October. The cool climate coupled with morning mists makes it an ideal time to go out and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of this hill station. Travel to Abbey Falls and be captivated with the beauty of the falling water amidst the greenery of nature. The Nagarhole National Park offers abundant wildlife and vegetation making it an ideal place for wildlife lovers; the facility has jeep safaris to watch elephants, tigers, and wildlife among others. Visit the coffee estates that are must-visit places for experiencing the shadow of coffee making or for enjoying the beauty of the hills. Besides the beautiful weather of Coorg, October is one of the best months to take a peaceful tour to this town.
- Location: Coorg, Karnataka, India
- Open/Close Times: Most attractions are accessible from 8 AM to 6 PM.
- How to Reach:
- By Air: Mangalore Airport is about 120 km away.
- By Rail: Mysore Railway Station is the nearest major railhead.
Pondicherry
October is a beautiful time to visit Pondicherry because of its rich French quarters and long golden beaches. Warm weather is excellent for sightseeing, especially in the French Quarter with beautiful neoclassical colonial buildings and bright colors. The Promenade Beach is one of the best places to stroll or just sit and watch the sea. Spend a few days in the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, go for a nature stroll in the scenic location of Auroville – an intentional community engaged in the pursuit of a better way of living, both reverent and sustainable. Surprisingly, October boosts the beauty of the streets and the coastal area in Pondicherry.
- Location: Pondicherry, Tamil Nadu, India
- Open/Close Times: Most attractions are accessible from early morning until late evening.
- How to Reach:
- By Air: Puducherry Airport connects with Chennai, and further connections are available from major cities.
- By Rail: Puducherry Railway Station connects to Chennai and other cities.
Munnar
October transforms Munnar into a virtual Field of Green as it is a picturesque hill station in Kerala. The existing tea gardens spread across slopes of hills also make it a beautiful scenery, and the weather is comparatively cool and fine. Visit the tea gardens and experience the picturesque beauty of the place and take a tour of the plantation to have a firsthand experience on how teas are produced. The Eravikulam National Park with Gigantic Nilgiri Tahr form a heartening trekking and wildlife region. For those interested in nature, there is scenic beauty of the region with the Anamudi Peak – the highest peak in South India. October also presents an opportunity to visit Attukal Waterfalls which provide a natural ambiance for relaxation and picnicking and the Mattupetty Dam.
- Location: Munnar, Kerala, India
- Open/Close Times: Tea estates and national parks are generally open from 9 AM to 5 PM.
- How to Reach:
- By Air: Cochin International Airport is about 110 km away.
- By Rail: Ernakulam Railway Station is the nearest major railhead, with a drive of around 110 km to Munnar.
As October arrives, India's varied landscapes turn into stunning scenes of beauty and peace, inviting you to explore its many attractions. From the misty hills of Munnar to the historic charm of Jaisalmer, each place on our list provides a special experience, made even better by the nice weather and festive mood of the season. Whether you're interested in the calm backwaters of Kerala, the lively culture of Rajasthan, or the beautiful valleys of Himachal Pradesh, October is the ideal time to fully enjoy India's mix of nature, history, and culture. As you start your trip, let the charm of these places create unforgettable memories and deepen your appreciation for India's amazing variety.
So, get your bags ready, enjoy the fresh October air, and go discover the best spots India has to offer this month. Have a great trip.
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