October marks the beginning of winter, making it an ideal time to plan a trip. As the festive season kicks in, India comes alive with vibrant celebrations, breathtaking landscapes, and thrilling adventures. From witnessing the grandeur of Indian festivals to trekking through the mighty mountains or exploring the serene natural beauty, India in October caters to all interests of every kind of traveler. So here’s unstumbled with a specially curated list of the best places to visit in India in October, check it out!
Best Places to Visit In India In October For Festivals
Ayodhya For Diwali
Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Rama, celebrates Diwali with unmatched spiritual zeal. The festival commemorates Rama’s return after 14 years of exile, lighting millions of diyas throughout the city. The highlight is the Ayodhya Deepotsav, where the entire city and riverbanks are illuminated in a breathtaking display of lights. Devotees can witness grand aartis, cultural performances like Ram Leela, and boat rides on the illuminated Sarayu River. The city’s temples, including the Ram Janmabhoomi and Hanuman Garhi, are adorned beautifully, creating a devotional atmosphere. This makes Ayodhya the best place to visit in India in October for Diwali.
Dates: October 18 to October 23, 2025
How To Reach
By Air: Ayodhya has its own airport, which is about 15 km from the city center.
By Train: Ayodhya has two main railway stations: Ayodhya Cantt and Ayodhya Dham.
By Road: Ayodhya is well connected by national and state highways. Regular bus services operated by the government and private operators run frequently to the city.
The Grandest Ever Diwali in Ayodhya!
21 lacs 🪔🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/Pqs3enZRbJ
— Sanatan Talks (@SanatanTalks) November 11, 2023
Patna For Chhath Puja
Patna, in the state of Bihar, celebrates Chhath Puja with great fervor, honoring the Sun God in one of the most revered festivals in the region. The festival involves strict fasting, holy baths, and offering prayers to the rising and setting sun on the banks of the Ganges River. Patna’s ghats come alive with thousands of devotees performing rituals and offering “arghya” as a mark of gratitude and devotion. The festival is marked by a serene yet powerful display of community spirit, featuring traditional songs, prayers, and elaborate arrangements.
Dates: October 25 to October 28, 2025
How To Reach
By Air: Patna is served by Jay Prakash Narayan Airport.
By Train: Patna Junction is a major railway hub well connected with most Indian cities through various trains.
By Road: Patna is accessible via national highways such as NH-30 and NH-22. State-run and private operator buses are available.
Mysore For Dasara
Mysore is famed for its grand and royal Dasara festival held every October, celebrating the victory of good over evil. The city transforms into a magnificent hub of festivities, with the Mysore Palace illuminated by nearly 100,000 lights each night, creating a spectacular sight. The highlight is the Vijayadashami procession, also called Jumbo Savari, featuring decorated elephants, cultural performances, and traditional music parades through the streets. Mysore Dasara also includes various cultural programs, exhibitions, and fairs showcasing Karnataka’s rich heritage.
Dates: September 22 to October 2, 2025
How To Reach:
By Air: Mysore has its own airport, Mandakalli Airport, which is connected to major cities like Bangalore and Chennai.
By Train: Mysore Junction Railway Station is a major rail hub.
By Road: It is well connected by National Highway NH-275 and other state highways. State-run and private operator buses are available.
Best Places to Visit In India In October For Nature
Munnar
Munnar, in Kerala, is a stunning hill station known for its lush green hills, sprawling tea plantations, and mist-covered landscapes. In October, just after the monsoon, the weather is mild and pleasant with temperatures ranging from about 15 degrees Celsius to 20 degrees Celsius, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy trekking to spots like Echo Point and Top Station, explore the Eravikulam National Park to spot rare wildlife, and relax by scenic lakes and waterfalls. The freshness after the rain and the blooming flora make it one of the best nature destinations in October.
How To Reach
By Air: The nearest airport to Munnar is Cochin International Airport (COK), approximately 110 km away.
By Road: Munnar is well connected by road to major cities in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Aluva, about 100 km from Munnar.
Nainital
Nainital, a popular hill station in Uttarakhand, is famous for its picturesque Naini Lake surrounded by mountains. October is an excellent time to visit, as the monsoon season leaves the surroundings lush and vibrant while the weather remains cool and pleasant. Visitors can enjoy boating on the tranquil lake, trekking to viewpoints like Snow View and Tiffin Top, and exploring nearby waterfalls and forests. This town’s charming colonial architecture and bustling markets add to the scenic and cultural experience. The crisp autumnal air enhances the natural beauty, making it a rejuvenating getaway in October.
How To Reach:
By Air: The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, about 70 km from Nainital.
By Train: The closest railway station is Kathgodam, approximately 34 km from Nainital.
By Road: Nainital is well-connected by roads with frequent bus services from nearby cities like Delhi, Dehradun, and Kathgodam.
Shillong
Nestled in Meghalaya, Shillong showcases breathtaking natural beauty, featuring rolling hills, waterfalls, and crystal-clear lakes, earning it the title “Scotland of the East.” It provides pleasant weather with cool temperatures and minimal rainfall, making it perfect for outdoor exploration. Tourists can visit Umiam Lake for water sports, Elephant Falls for scenic views, and Shillong Peak for panoramic sights of the city and surrounding hills. The rich biodiversity, combined with local Khasi culture and vibrant markets, creates a unique nature-centric experience. Shillong’s serene landscapes and cool climate make it one of the best places to visit in October.
How To Reach:
By Air: The nearest major airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, Assam, about 114 km from Shillong.
By Train: There is no railway station in Shillong. The nearest major railhead is Guwahati Railway Station in Assam.
By Road: Meghalaya Transport Corporation (MTC) and Assam State Transport Corporation (ASTC) run regular bus services
Best Places to Visit In India In October For Adventure
Rishikesh
Rishikesh offers thrilling activities like white water rafting on the Ganges with varying rapid grades suitable for all skill levels. Other adrenaline-pumping experiences include bungee jumping, cliff jumping, giant swings, ziplining, and kayaking. The Himalayan foothills provide excellent trekking trails and mountain biking routes. October is ideal for these outdoor adventures with pleasant weather post-monsoon and clear skies. Camping by the riverside and exploring nearby waterfalls enhances the adventure experience.
How To Reach:
By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 35 km from Rishikesh.
By Train: The nearest major railway station is Haridwar, approximately 25 km away.
By Road: Rishikesh is well connected by road via National Highway 58. It is approximately 240 km from Delhi and around 45 km from Dehradun.
Bir Billing
Bir Billing in Himachal Pradesh attracts paragliders worldwide, offering one of the best paragliding experiences globally. October brings clear skies and stable weather conditions, perfect for soaring over the stunning Himalayan landscape. Besides paragliding, Bir offers activities like trekking, mountain biking, and river rafting nearby. The serene environment, combined with adrenaline adventure, makes it an exceptional spot for thrill-seekers. Bir Billing is also a great place to experience Tibetan culture and explore local monasteries during an adventurous trip.
How To Reach:
By Road: Bir Billing is well-connected by road. From Delhi, there are two primary routes by road, via Kangra or via Mandi.
By Train: The nearest major train stations are Pathankot Cantonment and Una.
By Air: The nearest airport is Kangra Airport (Dharamsala) and is about 67 km away.
Andaman & Nicobar Islands
The Andaman & Nicobar Islands offer a unique blend of tropical adventure with activities like scuba diving, snorkeling, sea walking, and deep-sea fishing amidst vibrant coral reefs and marine life. October marks the end of the monsoon season, opening opportunities for water sports and beach adventures with pleasant weather. Trekking through dense forests, exploring limestone caves, and kayaking in pristine lagoons add to the thrilling experiences. The islands are perfect for exploring both land and underwater adventures in a tropical paradise.
How To Reach:
By Air: The main airport is Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair.
By Sea: Passenger ship services from Kolkata, Chennai, and Vishakapatnam.
Summing Up
October, the onset of winter brings pleasant weather, making it an ideal time to explore the country’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. So make sure you do not miss this opportunity to explore the best of India, especially if you want to explore the nature or its festivals!
