The best times to visit India and the Himalayas
Whether you’re into exploring bustling cities, marveling at architectural wonders, or just an adventure seeker in the great outdoors, India’s Golden Triangle and Nepal are sure to leave an indelible mark on your soul.
Looking for an unforgettable journey? Look no further than captivating India and Nepal. Before you immerse yourself in the rich history, diverse cultures, and astounding natural beauty of these Asian heavyweights, it makes sense to learn a bit about the climate.
Delhi
India’s capital is the perfect starting point for your Golden Triangle adventure. With its rich history and radiant culture, the city offers a blend of tradition and modernity. Explore the narrow lanes of Old Delhi, adorned with mosques and bazaars. Savor mouthwatering street food. In contrast, New Delhi boasts grand boulevards, imposing government buildings, and iconic landmarks such as the India Gate and the Lotus Temple.
As a city of contrasts, it makes sense that Delhi’s temperatures can be extreme. Summers reach up to 110°F, and winters as low as 45°F. Time your trip during the cooler months from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.
Agra
In Agra, you can expect similar scorching summers and cold winters. Temperatures reach highs of 110°F, and winters are even cooler, with temperatures dropping to around 40°F. The time to visit is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the landmarks.
No visit to India is complete without witnessing the sublime beauty of the Taj Mahal in Agra. The UNESCO World Heritage site is an architectural marvel and a testament to eternal love, with its intricate marble carvings, symmetrical gardens, and ethereal glow at sunrise or sunset. Agra is also home to other historical gems such as the Agra Fort and the Fatehpur Sikri.
Jaipur
Nestled in the heart of Rajasthan, the Pink City is a tapestry of majestic palaces, bustling markets, and colorful traditions. Explore the magnificent Amber Fort, perched on a hilltop overlooking the city, and get lost in the opulent lifestyle of the Rajput kings. You won’t want to miss the iconic Hawa Mahal, a stunning palace with intricately carved windows, and the City Palace, a grand complex showcasing Rajasthani and Mughal architecture.
Jaipur experiences a hot desert climate, with blistering summers reaching temperatures of up to 105°F and relatively mild winters ranging from 45°F to 80°F. If possible time your visit between November and February, when the weather is pleasant and best suited to sightseeing.
Nepal
Extend your journey beyond the Golden Triangle. Famous for its towering Himalayan peaks and majestic Mount Everest, Nepal is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. Explore the streets of Kathmandu, visit ancient temples and monasteries, and embark on treks to vistas of snow-capped mountains and lush valleys.
Nepal’s climate varies greatly depending on the region and altitude. The lowland Terai region experiences hot summers with temperatures ranging from 75°F to 100°F, while the higher elevations of Kathmandu Valley and the Himalayas have cooler temperatures, with summers averaging 75°F and winters dropping to 35°F. You’ll want to visit during spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is pleasant, and skies are clear for superb mountain views.
Wildlife and festivals
India and Nepal are home to diverse wildlife and lively festivals. In India, you can go on wildlife safaris in national parks like Ranthambore, Kaziranga, and Bandhavgarh, where you might spot majestic tigers, elephants, and rhinos. Nepal’s Chitwan National Park offers the chance to see rare species such as the one-horned rhinoceros and the elusive Bengal tiger.
Lose yourself in the vibrant culture of these countries by timing your visit during popular festivals such as Diwali, Holi, and Navratri in India, and Dashain and Holi in Nepal. These celebrations, the date of which can change year by year, showcase the traditions, music, dance, and delicious cuisine that make these destinations truly unforgettable.
Are you ready to journey through India’s Golden Triangle and Nepal? Contact one of our Destination Experts to plan the perfect itinerary, ensuring you make the most of your visit by experiencing the best these incredible destinations have to offer.