Have you visited these places? Top places to travel in October

October is the month of taking a break. The monsoon retreats in many parts of India, the scenery is still beautifully green, and many destinations are starting to become more comfortable for sightseeing and adventure.

Whether you're looking for mountains, beaches, heritage or just a bit of time away from it all, October has it all.

And the added bonus is that you don't have to be a rich person to plan one.

So, if you're feeling "Where should I travel this October?" here are 5 destinations in India that you may want to put on your list, along with the weather, top places to visit and an approximate budget for two.

Planning tip: Weather can vary from year to year, especially as monsoon retreats. Check the latest weather forecast, road and travel advisories before departing.

5 Best Places to Travel in October

Approximate 3-night/4-day land budget for two people, excluding travel to and from the destination. Actual prices vary.

Jaipur, Rajasthan – For a Royal October Escape

Ideal for: History lovers, couples, foodies, photography and weekend travellers

If your idea of a holiday includes forts, vibrant markets, rooftop cafes, traditional food and loads of photo opportunities, then Jaipur should feature somewhere in your October holiday plans.

The Pink City can get quite hot in summer, but October sees much more pleasant temperatures for wandering around the fort and markets. Long-term averages for October see daytime temperatures hover around the low-to-mid 30s and much cooler evenings.

And yes, having that massive fort just becomes a lot more pleasant to explore when you aren’t sweating buckets through the summer heatwave.

🌤️ Weather in Jaipur in October

• Daytime: Around 30-34°C
• Evenings: Around 19-22°C
• Much more pleasant than the summer months
• Light cotton clothing works well during the day
• Sunglasses and sunscreen are essential, plus a light layer for the evenings

📍 Top Places to Visit in Jaipur

1. Amer Fort

One of Jaipur’s most iconic landmarks and a must-visit for first-time visitors

2. City Palace

Explore the royal courtyards and architecture

3. Hawa Mahal

While you’ve almost certainly seen the image of this landmark a hundred times before, it’s still worth seeing in real life.

4. Jal Mahal

A quick stop for a picture!

5. Nahargarh Fort

Try visiting this one at sunset for great views over the city

6. Albert Hall Museum

A good option if you want to learn a bit more about Jaipur’s history and heritage alongside its architecture

💰 Approximate Budget for 2

For a mid-range 3-night/4-day trip, you should budget: Rs. 15,000-25,000 for two, including transport to Jaipur.

Rishikesh, Uttarakhand - Mountains, Ganga & Adventure

Perfect for: Adventure seekers, couples, friends, solo travellers and wellness

Looking to do some river rafting in the morning and Ganga Aarti in the evening? Come to Rishikesh!

The city makes for a popular destination during October as most of the monsoon rains have begun to taper off by then, ushering in a more pleasant destination to visit in comparison to the previous months. Most travel guides online also tend to agree that October to March is a great time to spend in Rishikesh.

But if you're not into adventures, you need not worry!

You can always cut out on the rafting and substitute it with some quick trips to cafes, temples, and yoga sessions while enjoying the mountain views.

🌤️ Weather in Rishikesh during October

• Day temperatures: 25-29ᴼC
• Night temperatures: Comfortable
• Comfortable overall for sightseeing and exploring though you may wish to carry a light jacket against chilly evenings and occasional showers.

📍 Things to do in Rishikesh

1. Visit Triveni Ghat in the evenings

For the famed Ganga Aarti, head to Triveni Ghat.

2. Beatles Ashram

It has unique, beautiful murals and structures that you can spend some time exploring.

3. Cafes in Laxman Jhula area

Here you can kill some time by visiting nearby cafes, temples, and more.

4. Neer Garh Waterfall

If you want to explore some greenery, this place can serve as a nice alternative to the busy streets.

5. Kunjapuri Temple

You can visit this place if you want to witness Himalayan views while enjoying a sunrise.

6. Parmarth Niketan

It is a prominent hub for any spiritual or wellness tourism in Rishikesh.

💰 Approximate Budget for 2

For 3 nights/4 days, an indicative comfortable budget is around:

Rs. 16,000–30,000 for two, including travel to Rishikesh.

The range can shift substantially depending on whether you choose a hostel/basic guesthouse, a private hotel or riverside camping, and whether you add adventure activities. Current 2026 estimates put mid-range couple trips in this general range.

Munnar, Kerala – Tea Gardens, Misty Hills & Green Everywhere

For: Nature lovers, couples, Photographers, slow travellers

If your idea of a perfect holiday includes green hills, tea plantations, mist, waterfalls, no hurry to check your emails…

Munnar might be calling.

Munnar is beautiful this time of the year (October), as the landscape holds on to its post-monsoon green hue and the tea plantations are in full bloom. Presently, the travel sources I’ve consulted indicate October as a great month to enjoy the hills and go on nature sightseeing.

🌤️ October Weather in Munnar

Average daytime temperatures in Munnar in October: 20-28C.
That’s comparatively cooler than many lowland regions in Kerala
Pleasant for sightseeing
Rain is possible, so pack a light rain jacket!

📍 Top Places to visit in Munnar

1. Eravikulam National Park

For mountainous terrain and wildlife sightings

2. Mattupetty Dam

A popular spot for sightseeing and boating.

3. Tea Museum

A must-visit to learn about Munnar’s tea-growing legacy.

4. Top Station

For panoramic views of the mountains.

5. Echo Point

A favored picnic spot surrounded by rolling hills and greenery.

6. Tea Plantations

Since you can’t come to Munnar and not soak in the beauty of tea plantations!

💰 Approximate Budget for 2

For a 3-day/3-night style trip, a mid-range budget estimate for two would be around:

Rs. 18,000-28,000, depending on the accommodation you choose and whether you opt for private cabs for local sightseeing.

As of 2026, a rough estimate for a couple, including transportation from Kochi, accommodation, meals, and activities, would fall within this range.

Want more places to check out these October? Check if you have visited this place or not?

Goa — Because Sometimes You Just Need the Beach

Friends, couples, beach lovers, and foodies — this trip is for you!

We couldn't make a list of October destinations without mentioning Goa.

October falls between the rainy season and the peak tourist season in Goa. This means that you may still experience rain, but the place is gradually transforming into a popular tourist spot. October offers warm weather for beach visits and excursions. The average temperature during the day ranges from a comfortable low of 30 C.

Another reason to consider visiting Goa in October is that it is an excellent opportunity to travel before the Christmas and New Year holidays when prices tend to surge. In 2026, the cost of a trip to Goa can vary significantly depending on the season.

🌤️ Weather in Goa, India in October

Warmer days and slightly cooler nights than in previous months are expected in Goa in October.

Air temperature:
Day: 30–32 C
Night: 24–25 C
Humid and warm

There is still a possibility of rain, especially at the beginning of the month.

📍 Best Places to Visit in Goa

Baga & Calangute 

For a night out on the beach

Anjuna 

Explore the beach, cafes, and shops

Vagator 

For magnificent views of the coastline and sunsets

Panjim

Discover traditional Portuguese buildings and colorful streets

Old Goa

Explore churches and other historical sites

South Goa Beaches 

If you want to enjoy a more laid-back beach vacation

💰 Approximate Budget for 2

For a 3-night/4-day trip, you can roughly plan:

Rs. 20,000–35,000 for two, excluding travel to Goa.

A budget trip can be considerably cheaper, while resort stays, premium dining and private transport can push the cost much higher. Current 2026 estimates show this wide variation clearly.

Shillong, Meghalaya – For the Scenery

Who it’s good for: Nature lovers, photographers, couples, and solo travellers

If you are someone who likes to do the typical Jaipur – Goa – Manali circuit but still wants to branch out a little, Shillong is a great addition to your list. Not only does October see relatively cool temperatures, it also has some great spots to take in the scenery. Shillong is one of the top 5 places to visit in India in October, for its lakes, waterfalls, caves, and unique indigenous culture.

🌤️ Weather in Shillong in October

Day: 20 – 24 C
Night: Can get quite chilly
Generally pleasant except for the odd rain showers, so carry a rain jacket if you are planning on visiting Shillong

📍 Things to do in Shillong

Here are some places you can visit in Shillong:

1. Umiam Lake

Beautiful spot just outside the city

2. Shillong Peak

Great view point

3. Elephant Falls

One of the must visit waterfalls in Shillong

4. Laitlum Canyons

Beautiful place to take pictures of the valley below

5. Ward’s Lake

Great place to relax on a slow afternoon

6. Local Markets

Great place to shop for local produce and to soak in the local culture

🌿 Other things to do in Shillong

If you have extra time you can always use Shillong as a base to explore more of the state, such as Cherrapunji/Sohra and other natural attractions in the area

💰 Cost of Trip to Shillong

A realistic budget for a 3 night / 4 day trip to Shillong for two would be anywhere between 20,000 – 35,000 (excluding flights to Shillong)

Your largest expense if any would probably be local sightseeing and transport if you are thinking of hiring a private vehicle for day long excursions.

Don't Forget These Travel Essentials

Before you leave, tick these off:

☑ ID proof
☑ Tickets
☑ Hotel confirmation
☑ Travel insurance, if applicable
☑ Medicines/personal essentials
☑ Power bank
☑ Phone charger
☑ Comfortable shoes
☑ Weather-appropriate clothes
☑ Some cash
☑ Emergency contact details

And yes, download your important tickets and hotel confirmations offline. Internet connection has a funny habit of disappearing exactly when you need it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is October a good month to travel in India?

Yes. October is generally considered a favourable travel month in many parts of India because the monsoon begins to retreat and temperatures become more comfortable in several regions. However, weather varies significantly by destination, and some areas can still receive rain.

Which is the best place to visit in India in October?

There isn't one answer for everyone. Jaipur is great for history and culture, Rishikesh for adventure and wellness, Munnar for nature, Goa for beaches and Shillong for scenic landscapes.

Which places are best for couples in October?

Munnar, Goa, Rishikesh and Jaipur can all work well for couples, depending on whether you prefer nature, beaches, adventure or culture.

Is Goa good to visit in October?

Yes, October can be a good time to visit Goa as the destination transitions out of the monsoon. However, rain can still occur, especially early in the month, so check the forecast before travelling.

Is October a good time to visit Rishikesh?

October is generally considered a good period for Rishikesh, with more comfortable weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities after the monsoon. Current travel guides commonly place October through March among the preferred travel months.

How much does an October trip for two cost in India?

A 3-night/4-day trip for two can range widely depending on the destination, accommodation and transport. For the destinations in this guide, an approximate land-only budget can range from around Rs. 15,000 to Rs. 35,000 for two, excluding travel to and from the destination.

Should I book my October trip early?

It's generally sensible to book early if you're travelling around weekends, festivals or popular holiday periods. Prices for flights, trains and hotels can change significantly depending on demand.