The weather in India in September is different in different regions. Before you visit India, you will need to take into account the weather of the region you are visiting in this large country. In India, weather conditions change with season and region. The September weather and temperatures make it a great month to visit India. This article will give you an insight into the weather in India in September in various regions.
India Weather in September
Monsoon starts in India from mid-June and lasts till September. You will usually experience light or heavy rainfall, but only in short spurts. It is the end of the monsoon season in September in India. India in September is drier and sunnier than the months of July and August and not quite as hot yet as in October. North India does not see as much rainfall as southern India. The states of Goa, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh often receive sporadic rainfall, with Kerala receiving persistent showers.
This is also a shoulder season in India, before tourism starts in full swing from October. Accommodations will offer good discounts during the off-season. You can even stay at heritage hotels and luxury resorts at a much lower price during the off-season. Plus, you will find fewer visitors at popular monuments, museums, and bustling cities. So if you are planning to visit India on a budget, September is one of the best months to plan a trip.
Here is a detailed overview of what the weather would be like each month in India, in different regions of the country. Feel free to explore.
January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December
Best places to visit in India in September
September is a shoulder season for tourism. Since the peak months for tourism in India are from October to March, September sees fewer crowds and better rates along with great weather in many parts of the country.
A trip to the Golden Triangle can be ideal during September. The Golden Triangle is perfect if you are visiting India for the first time, since it covers the major tourist monuments in the northern part of India, such as the Taj Mahal, India Gate, Red Fort, and Hawa Mahal. The route usually begins from Delhi, where you can explore monuments like the Red Fort and India Gate, and streets like Chandni Chowk in Old Delhi. From there, you can travel to Agra to see the majestic Taj Mahal and many other historic monuments in the city. The last spot of the Golden Triangle is Jaipur in Rajasthan, with architectural wonders like Hawa Mahal and City Palace.
The Himalayas in the far north, Rajasthan, Sikkim, and the west coast of India are some other places to visit in India in September. The temperatures in Tamil Nadu are also pleasant at this time. However, if you want to explore the Thar Desert in Rajasthan, the winter months from November to March might be a better option. Similarly, the beaches of Kerala and Goa are better avoided until the drier months, but the countryside and hill stations are certainly worth visiting.
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North India in September
September is considered to be the post-monsoon period in the far North in the Himalayas, especially in the foothills around Rishikesh, Shimla, Dharamshala or other hill stations.
The main monsoon months of June, July and August often bring the risk of landslides, cloud bursts, flooding and storms. However, September comes with clear weather and fewer chances of rain. The temperatures are pleasant, and it is the perfect time to get a great view of the distant peaks of Himalayas. September is ideal for activities like hiking or trekking in the mountains, as well as for relaxing.
Ladakh’s peak season for tourism is from June to early September, but it can often get very cold towards the end of August. The climate in Ladakh is hard to predict, since it can change from one year to another. You can fly to Leh and enjoy the stunning landscapes it has to offer, or chat with the locals and explore the many monasteries in the region. If there is heavy snow, you may not be able to travel from Manali to Leh and the Pangong Tso or Nubra Valley.
The Valley of Flowers in Himachal Pradesh is in full bloom during September, making this the ideal month to visit. Check out our tour ideas for the Himalayas here.
Coming to the lower northern part of India, September is a great month to plan a trip here. The rains are usually light and in short spells. You will find sunny days and clear skies, with temperatures swinging between pleasantly warm and hot. Thanks to the monsoon season, the countryside is lush green. You will be able to see farmers working in the green fields, while the lakes, rivers, and waterfalls flow abundantly with water.
September is a fantastic time to visit Rajasthan. The climate is cool and pleasant, and rains are not an issue. Plus, since it is not peak season, you get better rates on accommodations and fewer crowds at popular places. On the other hand, there are some activities you may have to miss out on, such as an overnight camel safari in Jaisalmer, or exploring the national parks in the state, since these activities don’t reopen until early or mid-October.
See Also: Navigating the Best of North India
Check out Henning’s two week trip in Rajasthan with homestays or Chiara’s Flashpacking Trip in Rajasthan. We have a few more route suggestions here.
Here is a detailed overview on what the weather would be like each month in India, in different regions of the country. Feel free to explore.
January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December
Related: Choosing the right time to visit India
South India in September
The weather in South India in September depends on the region. While it is the end of monsoon season, many areas of the south are still wet. The rains decrease gradually towards the end of September.
September is relatively quiet in Goa. It is a wet month but the showers are light and sporadic. However, the waters are still rough and we advise caution if you plan on swimming. South Goa gets busy during October and November, staying peaceful in September. North Goa slowly kicks into action with shacks, restaurants and other activities. Apart from the beaches, Goa also has a great countryside with rain forests and impressive waterfalls. If you are not really keen on beaches and can do without them, Goa is a beautiful place to visit in September.
Tamil Nadu and Karnataka are usually dry during the month of September. The days are sunny and hot, as the main monsoon starts in November. It’s a great time to visit Hampi, the popular backpacking destination in Karnataka. This place can get very hot and dry during the rest of the year, so if you want to experience a green and cool Hampi come in September. You can travel then to Mysore and Wayanad and eventually to Kerala. For some more travel routes down south, click here.
You can expect rain in Kerala during September. Heavy showers are common during the month, but the landscape turns a stunning green. If you are a nature lover and don’t mind the humidity levels, the Kerala backwaters are the perfect escape for you. With a tropical climate, lower temperatures, and cloudy skies, the month is perfect for short treks and other outdoor activities amidst nature. It is the perfect time to explore the rural scenery and local life of the state. National Parks like Periyar National Park and Eravikulam National Park remain open in the South.
The festival of Onam takes place in September in Kerala. It is a harvest festival that is celebrated with flowers, boat races, singing, dancing, and feasts served on long banana leaves.
Interested in a trip like this? Here’s an incredible trip that passes through many South Indian destinations that you can read, or simply click on Plan Your Trip for help.
Discover: Best Time to Visit Kerala
East India and North East India in September
Kolkata and West Bengal in the east see monsoon in full swing during September. However, Kalimpong in the Eastern Himalayas offers a rejuvenating escape. With cool temperatures, lesser crowds, and a rich variety of flora, this tiny hill station should be on your list when in West Bengal. The nine-day festival of Durga Puja takes place in September or October in West Bengal. It is marked by beautifully carved idols of the Goddess, pandal hopping, and gorging on food, with traditional songs and dances.
In the Northeast, the monsoon season nears the end in September. The clear skies and pleasant weather make the northeast a great destination to relax or indulge in outdoor activities like trekking or nature walks. The Ziro Music Festival takes place in September. Music lovers from all over the world come to Ziro Valley in Arunachal Pradesh for this one-of-a-kind music event.
West India and Central India in September
September sees the tail end of monsoon, but often, Central India experiences a lot of rain during this month. Flash floods are also common. The national parks are closed until October.
The metropolitan city of Mumbai is worth visiting during September. The weather is cool, with medium showers throughout the day. The temperatures on the west coast of Arabian Sea range from 28 to 30 degrees Celsius (82.4 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit), which makes the weather warm and ideal for swimming and other water activities.
It is the perfect time to visit Marine Drive, Gateway of India, and Elephanta Caves, but more importantly, the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi takes place mostly in September. This 10-day festival dedicated to the elephant-headed Hindu God is celebrated with pomp and splendor, and it is an experience you should not miss. Larger than life idols of the Hindu God Ganpati are carried in vibrant processions on the streets and submerged in water on the last day.
Another festival that takes place during September or October is Navratri, a nine-day celebration of the Hindu Goddess Durga. It is celebrated almost all over the country in different ways. Gujarat celebrates Navratri like no other state, followed by Maharashtra. You can see people in colorful traditional attire, enthusiastically performing dance forms Garba and Dandiya.
Islands in September
The climate is comparatively warm on the Andaman and Nicobar Islands located in the Bay of Bengal, with temperatures ranging from 27 to 32 degrees Celsius (80.6 to 89.6 degrees Fahrenheit). The warm ocean makes it a great time for underwater activities such as diving and snorkeling.
However, the islands may see high tidal waves, strong winds, and heavy rains at times, so make sure you check the weather forecast before planning a trip there.
Tips while visiting India in September
- Dress appropriately according to the region you are visiting. The climate in September in most parts of India is warm and humid, so wear light and breathable clothing. Do carry an umbrella and mackintosh, since you will experience sporadic rainfall in many parts of the country.
- Make sure to protect yourself by carrying sunglasses, a hat, cap, and sunscreen to prevent sunburns, and insect repellent to protect yourself from mosquitoes and other small insects.
- The festivals in September such as Ganesh Chaturthi, Navratri, and Durga Puja mean large crowds on the streets during the festival days. Be careful with your belongings and stay alert.
We hope this guide was helpful to find out the weather in September in India. For more detailed information about where is best to visit in India in September, or for any help planning your perfect trip to India, feel free to contact us! At India Someday, we customize trips to India according to your requirements, so hit us up, and we will plan a trip to India for you.
