The best time to visit Uttarakhand, nestled in the northern part of India, largely depends on the type of experience you're looking for. Generally, March to April and September to October are considered ideal for most tourist activities. These months mark the transition between the harsh winter and the torrential monsoon, offering a pleasant climate suitable for sightseeing, adventure sports, and wildlife expeditions. The temperatures during these months are moderate, making it perfect for exploring the natural beauty, including flowering valleys and serene lakes. This is also an excellent time for trekkers to embark on trails to the Valley of Flowers or the Char Dham pilgrimage.
For those interested in experiencing snowfall, the winter months of November to February are the ideal time to visit destinations like Auli, which is famous for skiing. However, it's important to note that some areas in the higher altitudes may be inaccessible during this period due to heavy snowfall. Conversely, the summer months of May to June offer respite from the heat of the plains, with hill stations like Mussoorie and Nainital providing cool retreats. The monsoon months, from July to August, are generally avoided due to the risk of landslides and floods, but the rains also bring out the lush greenery of the state, making scenic drives and walks very picturesque, albeit a bit risky.
| Month | Min Temp | Max Temp |
|---|---|---|
| January | 2 °c | 20 °c |
| February | 3 °c | 23 °c |
| March | 6 °c | 28 °c |
| April | 11 °c | 33 °c |
| May | 14 °c | 36 °c |
| June | 17 °c | 34 °c |
| July | 17 °c | 30 °c |
| August | 17 °c | 29 °c |
| September | 15 °c | 29 °c |
| October | 10 °c | 27 °c |
| November | 5 °c | 23 °c |
| December | 3 °c | 21 °c |
