Best Time to Visit Uttarakhand
What is the best time to visit Uttarakhand?
The best time to visit Uttarakhand is from March to May and mid September to mid October. During these months, the weather is pleasant and ideal for adventure activities like trekking and paragliding. In spring (March to May), the temperature ranges from 10°C to 25°C, with blooming flowers and lush green landscapes enhancing the region's natural beauty perfect for rafting in Rishikesh and wildlife spotting in Jim Corbett National Park. The Char Dham Yatra starts during this time.
Autumn (September to October) offers a similar temperature range, with clear skies and moderate weather, making it perfect for trekking, sightseeing, and exploring the picturesque hill stations. These periods avoid the extreme cold of winter and the heavy rains of the monsoon, providing the best conditions to experience Uttarakhand's diverse attractions, from the tranquil lakes of Nainital to the spiritual ambiance of Rishikesh and Haridwar.
Some parts of Uttarakhand like Mussoorie and Nainital experience snowfall from November to February. It is not advisable to visit Uttarakhand during peak monsoons in July and August. However, Valley of Flowers is picture perfect during the monsoon season.
Peak Season (March - June)
Weather: The plains (Dehradun, Haridwar) are warm and pleasant with temperatures between 20°C and 35°C, hill stations (Nainital, Mussoorie, Ranikhet) are cool and comfortable at 10°C to 25°C, and higher altitudes (Auli, Kedarnath, Badrinath) are mildly cold, ideal for trekking, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 20°C.
Popular destinations & activities: Boating on Naini Lake, Cable car ride to Gun Hill Mussoorie, River rafting on the Ganges, Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri, Skiing in Auli, Pilgrimage in Kedarnath and Badrinath.
Festivals: Holi (March), Char Dham Yatra, Baisakhi (April), Ganga Dussehra (June)
Note: Book accommodations and activities in advance to avoid last-minute hassles, Be mindful of the weather forecasts, particularly in higher altitudes, where conditions can change rapidly, Carry basic medical supplies and personal medications.
Off Season (July - September)
Weather: During the off-season in Uttarakhand, hill regions experience average temperatures of 15°C to 25°C, while low-lying areas range from 20°C to 30°C.
Rainfall: This period is characterized by heavy monsoon rains, leading to high humidity levels and frequent showers. Landslides and road blockages are common due to the heavy rainfall.
Popular destinations: Trekking through the valley of flowers, which is in full bloom during the monsoon is one of the top experiences. However, the trek can be challenging due to slippery paths and heavy rains. Ranikhet becomes even more picturesque with lush greenery and mist-covered hills during the monsoon. Chopta known as the "Mini Switzerland of India," offers a serene and green environment during the monsoon.
Note: Off-season discounts are common, making accommodations cheaper. Some remote areas may be inaccessible due to road damage, so have flexible travel plans. Be aware of potential landslides and roadblocks. It is advisable to check weather forecasts and road conditions before traveling.
Shoulder Season (October - February)
Weather: Hill stations like Nainital, Mussoorie, and Auli have cool, pleasant weather with temperatures between 0°C and 15°C, while lower regions like Dehradun and Rishikesh experience mild winters ranging from 10°C to 20°C. High-altitude areas like Kedarnath and Badrinath can see temperatures drop to -10°C or lower, particularly in December and January.
Popular destinations: Stunning views of the Doon Valley in Mussoorie, River rafting in Rishikesh, Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat, Wildlife Safari at Jim Corbett National Park, Skiing at Auli, visiting Har Ki Pauri, Boating in Naini Lake. Popular festivals include Diwali, Kumbh Mela, and Makar Sankranti.
Note: Pre-booking recommended for popular tourist places, Be cautious on mountain roads, which can be slippery due to frost or snow.
More about Best Time to Travel to Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand in Summer (March - June)
In Uttarakhand, temperatures during summer typically range from 20°C to 35°C in the plains and foothills, while in the higher altitudes of places like Nainital, Mussoorie, and Ranikhet, temperatures range from 10°C to 25°C.
Popular Destinations to Visit
- Nainital: Enjoy boating in Naini Lake, visit Naina Devi Temple, and take a scenic cable car ride to Snow View Point.
- Mussoorie: Explore the Mall Road, trek to Gun Hill, visit Kempty Falls, and enjoy panoramic views from Lal Tibba.
- Rishikesh: Experience adventure activities like white-water rafting, bungee jumping, and camping along the Ganges River. Attend yoga and meditation retreats.
- Jim Corbett National Park: Go for wildlife safaris to spot tigers, elephants, and other exotic fauna. Enjoy nature walks and birdwatching.
- Haridwar: Attend the Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri, visit Mansa Devi Temple, and take a dip in the holy Ganges River.
- Ganga Dussehra: Celebrated in Haridwar, this festival commemorates the descent of the Ganges from heaven to earth. Devotees take holy dips in the river.
- Baisakhi: Celebrated across the state, especially in rural areas, Baisakhi marks the harvest festival and includes colorful processions, folk music, and dance.
- Pre-booking recommended during peak tourist season.
- Follow safety guidelines during adventure sports and wildlife safaris.
- Respect local customs and traditions, especially during religious festivals.
Uttarakhand in Winter (October - February)
Snowfall
Auli, Munsiyari, and Chakrata experiences heavy snowfall, ideal for winter sports and scenic beauty. Nainital and Mussoorie are also snowfall destinations, creating picturesque landscapes. Dehradun, Haridwar, and Rishikesh experiences pleasant winter weather without snow.
Popular Destinations to Visit in Winter
- Auli: Skiing, snowboarding, and cable car rides. Stunning snow-covered slopes, perfect for winter sports enthusiasts.
- Mussoorie: Trekking, sightseeing, and enjoying the snowfall. Famous attractions like Kempty Falls, Gun Hill, and Mall Road.
- Nainital: Boating on Naini Lake, trekking, and exploring snow-clad landscapes. Naini Peak, Snow View Point, and Naina Devi Temple.
- Rishikesh and Haridwar: Yoga, meditation, and exploring spiritual sites. Ganga Aarti, Laxman Jhula, and adventure sports like river rafting.
- Jim Corbett National Park: Wildlife safaris and bird watching. Rich biodiversity, chance to see tigers and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
- Diwali: Celebrated across Uttarakhand. Festival of lights, marked by lighting lamps, bursting fireworks, and family gatherings.
- Makar Sankranti: Celebrated in the entire state, especially in the Kumaon region. Kite flying, fairs, and cultural programs.
- Vasant Panchami: Celebrated in Rishikesh, Haridwar, and other parts. Worship of Saraswati, marking the arrival of spring.
- Ganga Dussehra: Celebrated primarily in Haridwar and Rishikesh. Devotees take a holy dip in the Ganges, perform rituals and prayers.
- Pre-booking: Recommended during peak winter months to secure accommodation, especially in popular hill stations.
- Cost: Winter is a peak tourist season for snow activities, so accommodation may be slightly expensive.
- Clothing: Pack warm clothing, including thermal wear, jackets, and gloves.
- Travel: Be prepared for potential roadblocks due to snow, especially in higher altitudes.
- Health: Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the cold to avoid health issues. Carry essential medications.
Uttarakhand in Monsoon (July - September)
During the monsoon season in Uttarakhand, the weather varies across different regions. In the hill stations such as Mussoorie, Nainital, and Ranikhet, temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C. In the lower lying areas such as Dehradun and Haridwar, temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C. However, some remote areas in the higher altitudes experience cooler temperatures.
Rainfall
Uttarakhand experiences heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, particularly in the hill stations and higher altitude regions. Places like Mussoorie, Nainital, and Kausani receive significant rainfall during this time, while regions like Dehradun and Rishikesh may experience moderate rainfall.
Popular Destinations to Visit
- Mussoorie: Enjoy scenic views of waterfalls and lush greenery, trekking, and nature walks.
- Nainital: Explore the Naini Lake, visit nearby hilltops for panoramic views, and indulge in boating.
- Rishikesh: Yoga retreats, and visit temples and ashrams along the Ganges.
- Haridwar: Attend the Ganga Aarti, visit temples, and take part in spiritual ceremonies.
- Dehradun: Explore Robber's Cave, Sahastradhara, and visit the Forest Research Institute.
- Teej Festival: Celebrated predominantly in Haridwar and Rishikesh during the monsoon season.
- Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra: A famous religious procession held every 12 years in Nainital.
- Incessant downpours are witnessed till September. It is better to avoid visiting Uttarakhand during this time as the weather is very humid and wet.
- Hilly regions are also precarious for driving. Be cautious while traveling on mountain roads, as landslides and roadblocks are common during heavy rainfall.
- Monitor weather forecasts and avoid venturing into remote areas prone to landslides.
- Take necessary precautions against waterborne diseases and carry essential medications.
- During the monsoon, some adventure activities like trekking and river rafting may be temporarily suspended due to safety concerns.
