The desert state of India is one of the country's most popular year-round tourist destinations. However, each season has its own charm and unique experiences for Rajasthan tourism, so before you set your dates, it's always a good idea to learn more about Rajasthan's weather patterns and cultural calendar so that what you eventually choose truly delivers on the vacation you've been dreaming of having.
Summer is best avoided if you don't like the heat. You could always take a cheap trip to the hill station of Mount Abu. While the monsoons aren't as severe in other parts of India, they do provide some relief after the heat of summer. And, with fewer tourists preferring this time of year, it may be just the privacy you seek. Meanwhile, winter is peak season, making it ideal for sightseeing and other day- Rajasthan trip activities. But there are also festivals and events to consider throughout the year! This seasonal guide provides a comprehensive look at the best time to visit Rajasthan.
Rajasthan, India's largest state, has four distinct seasons: summer, monsoon, post-monsoon, and winter. Temperatures vary depending on the season and region, but you can visit the state at any time of year and find something new to do each time. Summers in Rajasthan last from April to June and can reach temperatures of up to 48°C during the day. However, if you do plan to visit Rajasthan during the summer, consider visiting Mount Abu, Kumbhalgarh, or Ranakpur. The weather is pleasant, and the views are breath-taking.
In other cities, the weather is best for walking around outside in the early mornings and late evenings, and it is best to stay indoors otherwise. The monsoon season is far more pleasant, with temperatures dropping across the state and rain showers transforming Rajasthan's arid landscape. If you want to avoid the crowds that come with peak tourist season, the months of July and September are ideal. Bundi, Udaipur's lake city, and the Keoladeo National Park are all beautiful places to visit if you plan to visit Rajasthan during the monsoon season.
After the monsoon, temperatures continue to fall, and by October, winter has arrived, lasting until March. Temperatures can vary dramatically between day and night during December and January. Temperatures have been known to fall as low as 0°C and below. The desert sun is not as intense during this time of year, and the days are pleasant. The majority of winter festivals are planned as tourist attractions, with visitors coming from all over the world.
Rajasthan in the summer.
Summers in a desert state, as you might expect, mean rising temperatures by the day. In fact, they can reach 50 degrees! From April to June, the harsh climate discourages tourism just as much as it does trees and water sources. Having said that, there are some Rajasthan destinations worth visiting during the summer, especially with lower off-season prices. These include Mount Abu, as well as the towns of Kumbhalgarh and Ranakpur. In fact, some would argue that now is the best time to visit Rajasthan if you're content to visit just one of these places. And they have a lot for you to experience. Great lakes, temples, and forts can be found on Mount Abu. While the Kumbhalgarh fort and wildlife sanctuary in India are sights in their own right. Within its complex, the former has entire temples! Meanwhile, Ranakpur is well-known for its Jain temples.
But that doesn't mean you can't visit other cities during this time of year; you just have to plan your day carefully and avoid excessive exertion in the afternoon sun. Evenings, mornings, and nights are still pleasant. If you choose a summer tour, these costs will be included in your package.
Carry sunscreen and an extra in your bag!
Rajasthan's Monsoon
Even in a tropical country like India, the desert experiences an annual monsoon! And it may be the best time to visit Rajasthan if you want to avoid the extremes of summer and winter. Furthermore, rain refreshes the land, bringing new life to every sight and sound — even dancing peacocks if you're lucky! Because this is before the high tourist season of winter, you may be able to get some great deals on travel and lodging, making the trip even more worthwhile. Among the worthy monsoon destinations is Udaipur, the city of lakes, which is absolutely brimming at this time of year. And, with the city's incredible collection of heritage hotels, this could be the best time to visit Rajasthan for couples.
Bundi and Keoladeo National Park are two more places worth planning a monsoon tour around because they each have something unique to offer. Sukh Mahal, lakes like Nawal Sagar, and other notable landmarks like Kipling Palace, Queen's Step-Well, and Mordi Ki Chhatri can all be found in Bundi. The Keoladeo National Park, a UNESCO-listed park known for its incredible bird population, is a highlight of the monsoons.
Remember to bring your umbrella or windbreaker.
Winter In Rajasthan
While temperatures differ between days and nights, most visitors agree that winter is the best time to visit Rajasthan. Under the mild winter sun, all corners of the state are accessible and worth seeing, making sightseeing or outdoor activities the most pleasurable right now. The cities of Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Bikaner, and Jaipur are buzzing with activity. Bundi, Mandawa, and Ranthambore are also excellent winter destinations.
Furthermore, all of the state's major festivals and events are held during this season to coincide with the increase in visitors! The Mount Abu Winter Festival features traditional dances and exhibitions, Sankrant sees the skies adorned with colourful kites, the Jaipur Literature Festival features acclaimed names from around the world, and the Bikaner Camel Festival and, of course, the famous Pushkar Mela are all held between October and March. It's no surprise that tourism is at an all-time high! And you, too, can partake in one or more of these uniquely Rajasthani experiences.
Carry enough warm clothing to keep yourself warm through the cold nights.
If you want to know more about the different seasons in Rajasthan, the weather, events, or anything else, just ask SOTC. With decades of touring the state, there is no one better to ensure you get the best Rajasthan tour packages for your dream vacation.