Photographs submitted to ‘Your Shot’ on National Geographic.
India is a country full of diverse and unique cultures, amazing cuisine and a fascinating history that the photographer Kristian Bertel learned when visiting this country. With so much to offer, India is a great destination for travelers.
But when is the best time to visit India?
The answer depends on what type of experience you are looking for. If you are looking for a cultural experience, then winter is the best time to visit India. This is because the weather is cooler and more comfortable, making it easier to explore the country’s many monuments and temples. You will also find fewer crowds, so you can enjoy the sights without the hassle of large crowds.
Photograph submitted to ‘Your Shot’ on National Geographic.
Monsoon season with qualities
For those interested in a wildlife experience, then the best time to visit India is during the monsoon season. This is when the wet season lasts and most of the country is lush and green. It is also the best time to spot tigers, elephants and other animals in the wild.
The monsoon season, which usually occurs between June and September, brings heavy rainfall to India. The monsoons can cause temperatures to drop significantly, especially in the southern parts of the country and is the result of the seasonal reversal of the winds due to the movement of the ‘Inter Tropical Convergence Zone’ over India. During the summer months, the southwesterly winds bring the rains from the Arabian Sea that cause the monsoon rains.
Important for the agriculture
Monsoon rains are important for India’s Agriculture. The rains nourish the crops and replenish the water sources which provide irrigation for the crops. The arrival of monsoon is welcomed with open arms by the farmers as it helps them to raise a good yield and this season is an important season for India. It brings much-needed rains that help sustain the agriculture industry and also bring relief from the scorching summer heat. It is also a time for various festivals that bring joy to the people and this season usually starts in India in early June and lasts until mid-September.
Monsoon season also brings relief from the scorching heat of the summer months and the rains bring coolness in the air and the temperature drops to a comfortable level. Monsoon is also a time for various festivals in India, such as the ‘Lohri festival’, ‘Teej festival’, ‘Ganesh Chaturthi festival’, ‘Onam festival’ and ‘Navratri festival’, which are some of the festivals that are celebrated during the monsoon season.
Different seasons and climates
Overall, temperatures in India can be quite extreme and it is important to be prepared for the different seasons and climates when visiting and with the right clothing and preparation, you can enjoy all that India has to offer, regardless of the weather.
Unforgettable experiences in India
Whichever time of year you choose to visit India, you are sure to have an unforgettable experience. From exploring ancient monuments to relaxing on a beach, India has something to offer everyone and with the right planning, you can make the most of your time in India and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Springtime in India
Spring is one of the most beautiful and vibrant times of the year in India and at this time of the year the country is blessed with a wide variety of climates and landscapes, so the experience of spring varies from region to region.
In the north, harsh winters give way to warm temperatures, blooming flowers and lush greenery. The hills of the Himalayas are transformed into a paradise of flowering shrubs and trees. In the south, the sun melts away the winter chill and the landscape is awash with the colors of spring.
The ‘Holi festival’ and ‘Vasant Panchami festival’ herald the arrival of spring. ‘Holi’, the festival of colors, is celebrated with much joy and enthusiasm. People gather together to play with colors and sing and dance. ‘Vasant Panchami festival’ marks the beginning of spring and is celebrated with traditional prayers, feasts and the worship of the goddess of learning, Saraswati.
The weather during spring in India is perfect for outdoor activities. The days are sunny and pleasant, making it the perfect time to explore the outdoors. Nature lovers can take advantage of this time and explore the beauty of India’s many national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. So it is a time of beauty and joy, where it is a time to celebrate nature and enjoy the beauty of the land. From the vibrant colors of spring to the festivals and outdoor activities, spring in India is a celebration of life and renewal.
Summertime in India
The summer season in India is one of the most awaited and celebrated seasons of the year and as the temperatures soar, people in India begin to prepare for the scorching summer months ahead.
In India, the summer season usually begins in the month of March and lasts until June. During these months, the temperature in India can reach up to 50°C in the northern parts of the country, while it can drop to as low as 25°C in the southern parts. The humidity during this time of the year is also quite high, making the summer season even more unbearable.
Photograph submitted to ‘Your Shot’ on National Geographic.
The summer season also brings with it a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables. Mango, watermelon and guava are some of the most popular fruits that are widely consumed in India during this time of the year.
Summer in India is also a time for rejuvenation and relaxation. With its vast coastline and beautiful hill stations on Kerala, India offers a perfect getaway for people looking to escape the summer heat. Beach resorts, hill stations and water parks are some of the most popular tourist destinations in India during the summer months. It is also a time for adventure. Trekking trails, river rafting, paragliding and other outdoor activities are in high demand during this time of the year.
Overall, the summer season in India is a time for fun, relaxation and adventure, where India offers something for everyone during the summer months. So, if you are looking for a perfect getaway, head to India this summer and make the most of it.
Autumn in India
Autumn in India is one of the most beautiful times of the year and the season brings with it an abundance of colours, cooler temperatures and a feeling of happiness and contentment.
The autumn season in India begins in October and lasts until November and during this period, the temperatures gradually drop, creating ideal conditions for travel and exploration. The skies turn a beautiful hue of blue and the trees are adorned with vibrant shades of red, yellow and orange as they shed their leaves. The weather is pleasant, making it perfect for sightseeing, photography and outdoor activities.
The cooler temperatures also make it an ideal time to explore the country. Many of India’s hill stations come alive during this time, as visitors flock to enjoy the beautiful scenery and cooler temperatures. The hill stations of Darjeeling, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand are especially popular.
The arrival of autumn also marks the start of festivals and celebrations, where ‘Dussehra festival’, ‘Diwali festival’ and ‘Durga Puja festival’ are some of the major festivals celebrated during this time and these festivals are celebrated with much enthusiasm and are an important part of Indian culture.
The cooler temperatures and changing of colors are also perfect for enjoying and exploring the country’s wildlife, where India is home to some of the world’s most exotic species of animals and birds. So autumn is the perfect time to spot wildlife, as the animals are more active due to the cooler weather.
Wintertime in India
Winter in India is a magical time of year. From the snow-capped Himalayas to the chilled coastal waters, India experiences a variety of weather during the winter months.
The northern part of India is blessed with a cold winter, with temperatures ranging from 4°C to 17°C depending on the elevation. The snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas provide a stunning backdrop for winter activities such as skiing, snowboarding and ice skating and this mountainous terrain also provides a great opportunity for trekking, as the crisp air and stunning views make trekking in winter a truly unforgettable experience.
In the central and southern parts of India, the winter months bring a chance to enjoy the pleasant weather. Temperatures usually range between 15°C to 25°C, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as camping, cycling and sightseeing. The sun is usually out, providing a great opportunity to explore the country’s many natural wonders.
India is also home to a variety of winter festivals. From the lighting bonfires at the ‘Lohri festival’ in the north to colorful ‘Pongal festival’ celebrations in the south, there is something for everyone to enjoy. India also has a rich cultural heritage, with many traditional winter celebrations, such as ‘Diwali festival’ and ‘Makar Sankranti festival’, taking place throughout the season.
Photograph submitted to ‘Your Shot’ on National Geographic.
Variety of climates in India
India is a tropical country with a wide variety of climates found throughout the country. It is one of the hottest countries in the world, with temperatures reaching up to 50°C in some areas. The average temperature varies greatly depending on the region and the time of year.
North India
In the northern plains of India, temperatures tend to be very hot in the summer months, with average highs of up to 45°C. In the winter, temperatures can dip as low as 10°C. In the mountainous regions of India, temperatures can be quite extreme, with average highs of up to 22°C in the summer and lows of up to -4°C in the winter.
Central and southern India
In the central and southern parts of India, temperatures tend to be a bit cooler, with average highs of up to 36°C in the summer months and lows of up to 18°C in the winter.
As the Photographer is saying it:
National Geographic Your Shot is the place for photographers to tell stories collaboratively through their best photography and expert curation. There are also the many National Geographic photographers known from the magazines that are freelancers and who come from a wide array of backgrounds. They have different interests, passions, experiences and have educational backgrounds in a variety of disciplines.
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