India is a feast for the senses. Think pink-hued palaces in Rajasthan, the hush of dawn over the Ganges in Varanasi, and the spice-scented streets of Old Delhi, all within a few days’ travel of each other. It’s a country of big contrasts, where ancient temples sit beside buzzing bazaars and every region has its own food, language and traditions.
Head north for the Golden Triangle and the unforgettable Taj Mahal, or go south to Kerala, where palm-fringed backwaters, tea-covered hills and gentle houseboat days make for a slower pace. Wildlife fans can look for tigers in the national parks of Madhya Pradesh, while beach lovers will find sunshine and seafood in Goa.
The best time to go depends on where you’re headed, but October to March is generally the most comfortable for much of the country, with cooler days and clear skies. Monsoon season (roughly June to September) brings lush green landscapes and fewer crowds, which can suit travellers who don’t mind a little rain. Wherever you choose, India has a way of staying with you long after you’ve come home.
