India experiences a range of climatic variations across its vast expanse.

Monsoon - July to September when monsoon rains sweep across the country with daily torrential downpours and a high possibility of flooding making travel difficult in all areas except the northwest. Duration of monsoons may vary in different regions by several weeks.

Cool - The months from October to February are some of the best times to visit as the weather is very pleasant with minimal rainfall in most places.

Hot - March to June witnesses temperatures that can soar above average making the hot season unbearable and the hazy, dust-laden air can hamper views. Many people head to "hill stations" which provide a welcome relief from the extreme heat of the lowlands.

Cyclones - June to September can suffer from these fierce tropical storms, which mainly affect the east coast of India, cause high winds, intense rain and a possibility of tidal waves.

Carry a lightweight jumper as it can be chillingly cold inside air-conditioned buildings during hot weather.

Northern India

Himachal Pradesh, Punjab

Mostly due to its high elevation, the far north experiences milder weather than elsewhere in India and extra layers are necessary at all times of the year.

Waterproofs are essential during the Monsoon Season when rainfall is heavy.

The Cool Season can experience relatively cold weather with snowfall further north - warm clothes are essential at this time of year.

Best time to visit: The Hot Season when the weather is reasonably warm and rainfall is minimal - although waterproofs are useful. Warmer clothes are essential for the evenings.

Northeastern India

Sikkim, West Bengal

The northeast experiences high rainfall/humidity during both the Monsoon Season and the tail end of the Hot Season. Views of the lush hillside, famous for its tea plantations, can be hampered during these wet periods. Waterproofs are an absolute necessity and a few warm layers are useful too.

Best time to visit: Although it can be cold (especially during the evenings), days tend to be clear, fresh and dry in the Cool Season.

Northwestern India

Gujarat, Rajasthan

This region of India is predominantly dry and arid, with the Thar Desert occupying the far western expanse. The monsoon bears little or no effect on the weather and rainfall is minimal throughout the year.

The heat can be extreme and if visiting this area during the hotter months, lightweight clothes are best.

Best time to visit: The Cool Season, although it can get cold at night and warm clothes are necessary.

Many cities in Rajasthan are built around sacred lakes and these are at their best during the slightly wetter Monsoon Season.

Central India

Delhi, Madhya Pradesh

The temperature rises to oppressive levels during the Hot Season - daytime temperatures can reach the 40's(^oC) and night-time temperatures can remain in the high 20's(^oC). Pollution levels can also be alarmingly high during this time.

The Monsoon Season can begin as early as late June but generally the effects are not felt until mid-July. Rain tends to be intermittent but torrential. An umbrella is essential if travelling at this time as waterproofs would be too hot.

Best time to visit: During the Cool Season as days are warm, dry and pleasant, however nights can be surprisingly cold and temperatures can drop below 10 ^oC - take a few extra layers to pile on after the sun goes down.

Eastern India

Bengal, Orissa

The end of the Hot Season is quite wet and both temperatures and humidity are high.

The Monsoon Season suffers a large amount of rain and flooding is common. Humidity levels also remain high and the heat can get quite uncomfortable. An umbrella is essential as the weather is too hot for waterproof clothing, although sturdy shoes are a must.

Best time to visit: During the Cool Season when temperatures are quite pleasant and rainfall is low.

Western India

Maharashtra, Goa

During the Hot Season in western India, temperatures can rise above the average, although it does not tend to get as hot as in central India. Humidity is high and lightweight clothes are necessary.

Sturdy shoes and an umbrella are vital during the Monsoon Season as very heavy rain falls and flooding is commonplace. The hot, humid climate makes this rather an unpleasant time to be travelling in the west and the wearing of waterproofs extremely uncomfortable.

Best time to visit: Showers dry up during the Cool Season, making these months a far more agreeable time to visit.

Southern India

Kerala, Tamil Nadu

The climate in southern India experiences only slight seasonal variations. Temperatures and humidity remain relatively high all year round. Rainfall is common at any time of the year and the Monsoon Season has only marginally more precipitation than at any other time.

Lightweight clothes and an umbrella are required throughout the year. A few extra layers of clothing may also be useful during the cooler months, as temperatures may drop slightly in the evening.

Best time to visit: The Cool Season and the beginning of the Hot Season are the best times to visit when rainfall is marginally lower.