October in India feels like the country is waking up after a long pause. The heavy rains have washed the dust away, rivers are swollen with new life, forests are freshly bathed in green, and the skies are finally clear. The weather in India in October is a gift — mild in the north, cool in the hills, and pleasantly sunny in the south. Add to this the fact that October marks the beginning of India’s great festive season, and you have the recipe for one of the best times to travel across the subcontinent.

So, if you’re wondering where to go in October, here’s a carefully crafted list of 20 best places to visit in October in India with stories, highlights, food, and travel tips.

1. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand — Adventure Meets Spirituality

Imagine the chill of Himalayan air, the roar of the Ganga as it cuts through valleys, and the sight of saffron-clad sadhus chanting on the ghats. Rishikesh in October offers a balance between spirituality and adrenaline. The monsoons leave the river swollen, making it the perfect season for white-water rafting.

• What to Do: Try rafting, yoga retreats, and attend the Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat.
• Food to Try: Samosa at Rishikesh Chotiwala, and simple ashram meals.
• Tip: Stay in a riverside camp for the full October outdoorsy feel.
  

2. Jodhpur, Rajasthan — The Blue Jewel of the Desert

As the desert sun softens, Jodhpur becomes magical in October. Walking through its narrow blue lanes feels like stepping into a painting.

• Highlights: Explore Mehrangarh Fort, Umaid Bhawan Palace, and local bazaars.
• Local Flavor: Try mirchi vada, dal baati churma, and makhaniya lassi.
• Why October? Days are warm but not scorching, evenings are breezy — perfect for exploring the “Blue City.”
  

3. Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan — Into the Wild

October marks the reopening of Ranthambore National Park, one of India’s most famous tiger reserves. The forest is lush post-monsoon, and the chance of spotting big cats is high.

• What to Do: Jeep safaris, photography, and visiting Ranthambore Fort.
• Tip: Morning safaris are colder than you think — carry a light jacket.
• Why October? The wilderness looks alive and fresh, offering some of the best safaris of the year.
  

4. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh — Timeless Spirituality

India in October means festive energy, and nowhere is it more visible than Varanasi. This ancient city on the Ganga has a unique rhythm: sunrise boat rides, priests chanting at ghats, and markets buzzing with life.

• Must-Do: Evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, silk shopping, and tasting Banarasi paan.
• Food to Try: Kachori sabzi and malaiyyo (a seasonal frothy dessert).
• Why October? The oppressive summer heat is gone, making exploration comfortable.
  

5. Goa — Beaches Reborn After Monsoon

In October, Goa wakes up after months of rain. Beaches are clean, palm trees are greener, and shacks slowly reopen. It’s quieter than the December rush but full of charm.

• Best Experiences: Sunset at Vagator, seafood feasts in South Goa, water sports at Baga.
• Why October? Moderate crowds, cheaper stays, and perfect weather for both parties and peace.
• Tip: South Goa is calmer if you want serene October getaways.
  

6. Jaipur, Rajasthan — The Pink City’s Grandeur

 

Walking through Jaipur’s Amber Fort in October feels regal. The sun is mild, bazaars are vibrant, and the architecture glows under the soft autumn light.

• Highlights: Hawa Mahal, City Palace, and Jantar Mantar.
• Shopping: Block-printed textiles, mojris, and jewelry.
• Food: Try ghevar, a sweet especially popular around festive months.
  

7. Coorg, Karnataka — Coffee in the Hills

October is coffee harvest season in Coorg. The hills are misty, waterfalls are roaring, and the aroma of coffee fills the air.

• What to Do: Trekking, Abbey Falls, Dubare Elephant Camp, and coffee plantation tours.
• Stay: Homestays with Kodava families for authentic food and warmth.
• Food to Try: Pandi curry (pork curry) with akki rotti.
  

8. Kolkata, West Bengal — The Spirit of Durga Puja

If you’ve never been to Kolkata in October, Durga Puja will leave you spellbound. The entire city transforms into an open-air art gallery with elaborately decorated pandals.

• What to See: Pandal-hopping across neighborhoods like Kumartuli and Salt Lake.
• Food to Try: Shorshe ilish (hilsa fish), mishti doi, and street-style rolls.
• Why October? To experience Bengal’s most celebrated festival in full swing.
  

9. Mysuru, Karnataka — Royal Dussehra

Mysuru Dussehra in October is world-famous. The illuminated palace glows like gold at night, and grand processions showcase Karnataka’s heritage.

• What to Do: Watch the Dasara parade, visit Chamundi Hills, and explore silk markets.
• Food: Try Mysore Pak, a sweet born here.
• Tip: Hotels fill up months in advance — book early.
  

10. Hampi, Karnataka — Ruins That Speak

The surreal boulder-strewn landscapes of Hampi take on a special glow after the rains. The temples and ruins seem alive under the golden October sunlight.

• Must-See: Virupaksha Temple, Vittala Temple’s musical pillars, coracle rides.
• Experience: Cycle tours across ancient ruins.
• Tip: Climb Matanga Hill for the most magical sunrise.
  

11. Udaipur, Rajasthan — Romance by the Lakes

In October, Udaipur’s lakes are brimming after monsoon, and palaces look like they’re floating on water.

• Highlights: City Palace, boat ride on Lake Pichola, Saheliyon-ki-Bari.
• Food: Lal maas (spicy Rajasthani mutton curry).
• Why October? The weather is breezy, ideal for evenings by the lake.
  

12. Ooty, Tamil Nadu — The Queen of Nilgiris

October in Ooty means misty mornings, green tea gardens, and cool weather.

• Must-Do: Nilgiri Mountain Railway ride, Ooty Lake boating, Rose Garden.
• Nearby: Coonoor, quieter and equally scenic.
• Food: Try homemade chocolates and hot masala chai.
  

13. Darjeeling, West Bengal — Tea and Mountains

October skies in Darjeeling are crisp, offering clear views of Kanchenjunga.

• What to Do: Tiger Hill sunrise, toy train rides, tea estate visits.
• Food: Momos and thukpa in small hill cafés.
• Tip: Carry warm clothes; evenings get chilly.
  

14. Amritsar, Punjab — Golden Glow

In October, Amritsar is alive with devotion and food. The Golden Temple shines under cool autumn skies.

• What to Do: Visit Golden Temple at dawn, Jallianwala Bagh, and Wagah Border.
• Food: Langar at Golden Temple, Amritsari kulcha, and lassi.
• Why October? Mild weather makes heritage walks enjoyable.
  

15. Andaman & Nicobar Islands — Ocean Bliss

With calm seas and clear skies, Andamans in October is paradise for beach lovers.

• Highlights: Havelock’s Radhanagar Beach, scuba diving, snorkeling.
• Food: Fresh seafood — crab curry, fish tikka.
• Tip: Pre-book ferries and flights; demand soars post-monsoon.
  

16. Leh-Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir — The Last Window

October is the last month before heavy snowfall cuts off Ladakh.

• What to Do: Visit Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, monasteries.
• Tip: Nights are freezing — pack heavy woolens.
• Why October? Few crowds, surreal golden landscapes.
  

17. Shillong, Meghalaya — The Scotland of the East

October turns Shillong into a green paradise. Crystal-clear rivers and waterfalls are at their best.

• What to Do: Umiam Lake, Elephant Falls, music cafés.
• Nearby: Dawki for its glassy river, Cherrapunji for waterfalls.
• Food: Jadoh (pork rice dish).
  

18. Agra, Uttar Pradesh — Timeless Taj

October’s soft sunlight makes the Taj Mahal glow even more.

• What to Do: Taj Mahal at sunrise, Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri.
• Food: Petha (sweet), Mughlai kebabs.
• Why October? Comfortable weather for sightseeing.
  

19. Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh — Satpura’s Secret

The only hill station in Madhya Pradesh, Pachmarhi is full of waterfalls and caves in October.

• Highlights: Bee Falls, Satpura National Park, sunset at Dhoopgarh.
• Why October? Green landscapes and cooler weather post-monsoon.
  

20. Rajasthan Circuit (Jaipur + Ranthambore + Udaipur)

If you can’t decide, combine them! October is perfect for a Rajasthan trip: forts, lakes, bazaars, and safaris all rolled into one.

Why October is the Best Month to Travel in India

• Festivals Everywhere: From Durga Puja to Dussehra, October is full of cultural color.
• Perfect Weather: Clear skies, mild temperatures, less humidity.
• Nature at Its Best: Post-monsoon freshness adds magic to hills, forests, and rivers.
  

Final Word

If there’s one month where India feels like it’s showing off its full glory, it’s October. From royal palaces and ancient temples to misty hills and sunny beaches, every destination feels alive. So if you’re seeking the best October getaways, these 20 best places to visit in October in India are more than just travel spots — they’re experiences that stay with you forever.