Do you want to travel to India in August? | All you need to know
Travelling to India can be a deeply enriching experience, filled with cultural, social and sensory surprises. Regardless of where you’re coming from, visiting India offers moments of self-discovery, fresh perspectives, and an invitation to embrace diversity. That said, there are certain times of the year when specific regions shine brighter than others. If you’re considering a trip to India in August, here’s why it’s worth it—and what to do when you arrive.
Is the monsoon a problem when visiting India in August?
If you’ve been researching your trip to India, you’ll have likely come across mentions of the monsoon season. Yet many sources fail to explain what the monsoon really means—and how it can be enjoyed. Most of India lies within the tropical zone, between the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn. As a result, the climate is generally divided into two main seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. The monsoon, which begins in July, marks the start of the long-awaited rains that cool the scorching summer heat across the country. While you may initially think that travelling to India in August is a bad idea due to the rain, this isn’t the case. Rainfall varies across regions—some areas are already past peak monsoon while others remain dry. Deserts become cooler and more pleasant, and the landscape turns a vibrant green. Plus, there’s something poetic about embracing the rain and letting it guide your journey, don’t you think?
Where to go if you’re visiting India in August
August is considered low season in India, due in part to the monsoon. However, it’s also a popular time for European travellers—so flights can still be busy. Wondering where to go during your visit? Here are a few incredible places to explore in India during August, offering cultural richness, unforgettable scenery and experiences like no other.
Option 1: Head to the far south
Since the monsoon begins in the south and moves northward, southern India is already seeing clearer skies by August. This is a wonderful time to enjoy the tropical beauty of the region, with lush greenery and refreshed landscapes following the rains. Don’t miss the Nilgiri tea plantations, where women hand-pick the freshest tea leaves in a serene, misty setting. Kerala—known as “God’s Own Country”—is especially beautiful during this time, with its tranquil backwaters, verdant hills and rejuvenated countryside. The hill town of Munnar is a highlight, with its breathtaking views and vibrant flora.
Option 2: Northern India – a year-round favourite
Northern India is a fantastic option at any time of year. By August, the intense summer heat has eased, offering a more pleasant climate for sightseeing and exploration. The region also hosts a number of important festivals in August, including celebrations of Lord Krishna, Lord Ganesh, and Raksha Bandhan—dedicated to the bond between siblings. This is a great time to immerse yourself in local traditions and witness Indian culture at its most vibrant. Don’t miss the famous Golden Triangle, a classic route that includes Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. In Agra, the Taj Mahal looks especially dramatic beneath the monsoon skies, while Jaipur, the Pink City, provides a welcome break from the summer sun. The Blue City of Jodhpur offers stunning views with its cobalt-coloured houses and the imposing Mehrangarh Fort. Further north, Ladakh remains largely untouched by the monsoon, offering pristine mountain views and peaceful, high-altitude retreats.
Festivals and Events in August
India celebrates its Independence Day on 15th August. If you’re in the country at this time, don’t forget to buy or bring a kite—it’s tradition to fly them in celebration of independence, and the sky fills with colour and excitement. August is also when Kerala celebrates Onam, the state’s most significant festival. This ten-day harvest celebration features lively boat races, floral decorations known as *pookalams*, and traditional feasts called *Onasadya*. In Northern India, Janmashtami celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna with temple performances and the exhilarating *dahi handi* competition. Meanwhile, in Alappuzha (Kerala), the Nehru Trophy Boat Race showcases teams paddling ornate snake boats across the backwaters—an unforgettable monsoon spectacle.
About Exoticca
India is a vast and varied destination, welcoming visitors year-round. If you’re ready to embrace something new and step outside your comfort zone, this fascinating country will reward you with rich colours, captivating traditions and unforgettable experiences. At Exoticca, we specialise in creating unforgettable holidays to magical destinations like India. Our itineraries are designed to offer authentic cultural encounters while maintaining comfort and excellent value. With deep local knowledge, our team can recommend the best places to visit based on the time of year, from lush post-monsoon escapes to festival-filled adventures. Whether you’re drawn to the colourful celebrations of August or the peaceful scenery of Kerala’s backwaters, let us help you discover the true soul of India.
