Best Time to Visit New Delhi
Extreme Weather
New Delhi is a landlocked city, and hence, has an extreme climate. Summers, which last from April to June, are unbearably hot and make for very poor sightseeing. It’s a dry kind of heat, and to make matters worse, dust storms from Rajasthan blow in frequently and with unimaginable fury. Temperatures can easily cross 45 C (113 F), and if you do find yourself in Delhi during this time, take precautions before stepping, out especially in the afternoon. The locals employ all kinds of ingenious methods to beat the searing heat, from wrapping their heads with long scarves drenched in icy water (which dry in almost no time at all) to taking a welcome dip in a nearby fountain.
The monsoons typically arrive in July and last till September, bringing with them intense humidity. October is pleasant and dry. November to February is the best time to visit this historic city; the days are filled with welcome sunshine but remain cool, although the nights can get a little chilly. Temperatures can dip as low as 2 C (36 F). If you’re visiting during this time, weave in an extra day into your schedule – Delhi’s infamous winter fog regularly envelops the airport, disrupting flights and generally resulting in some chaos.
Spring arrives in February and lasts till April. This is also when the famous Holi, the exuberant Hindu festival of color, takes place, and this is a great time to watch and take part in all the vibrant celebrations.
The Gateway to the North
India’s capital city is well connected to the rest of the country, especially if you want to venture out into the northern region. Agra, with its Taj Mahal, is just a stone’s throw away, and Rajasthan’s fabled palaces can be viewed after a night’s train journey. New Delhi’s smog will take some getting used to however; it’s one of the most polluted cities in India.| Previous, Languages of New Delhi | Next, Getting Around New Delhi |
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