India in February 2026: Perfect Weather, Ideal Value

If you are looking for an India tour with the best weather and a cost-effective option, consider February. Comfort and affordability are the keywords of this month. Stable temperatures, low humidity, and minimal rainfall make it one of the most suitable times to travel. Tourist crowds have eased since the December-January peak, providing better value for accommodations and tours. Let's take a closer look at what February brings in India.

Weather of February in India

February stays dry and sunny across most of India, so you can explore everything from wildlife safaris to quiet coastal town escapes.

Northern India (Delhi, Jaipur, Agra, Ranthambore, Thar Desert)

Temperature: 20-25°C during the day, cooler mornings and evenings
Weather: dry and sunny
Ideal for: cultural tours, forts, wildlife safaris, and photography

Central India (Khajuraho, Orchha)

Temperature: 22-30°C, nights 12-18°C
Weather: mostly dry with plenty of sunshine
Ideal for: exploring ancient temples and heritage towns

Western & Coastal India (Mumbai, Goa)

Temperature: 25-32°C, nights 18-22°C
Weather: dry and sunny with minimal rain
Ideal for: beaches, city sightseeing, and relaxed coastal activities

Southern India (Kerala, Munnar, Pondicherry)

Temperature: 23-32°C, depending on hills or coastal areas
Weather: clear and comfortable
Ideal for: tea gardens, backwater cruises, hill stations, and slow-paced holidays

February Weather Map of India

Places at Their Best in February

Thar Desert

February is an ideal time to explore the vast Thar Desert in Rajasthan, when days are warm and nights are comfortably cool. The dry, sunny weather makes camel safaris, dune walks, and desert camping enjoyable without the extreme heat of summer. Visitors can experience the unique desert landscapes, watch spectacular sunsets over golden sands, and enjoy starlit evenings in traditional desert camps. Local festivals during this time, like the Desert Festival in Jaisalmer, showcase vibrant folk music, dance, and cultural traditions.

Kerala Backwaters

In the heart of Kerala, the backwaters of Alleppey and Kumarakom stretch like calm ribbons through lush landscapes. As houseboats drift past traditional villages, travelers can spot herons and kingfishers among the palms. Clear skies in February make the reflections on the canals especially vivid, while early mornings reveal mist curling over the water. If you are looking for a leisurely cruise and the peace and serenity of daily village life, why not consider Kerala?

Backwater Houseboat in Alleppey

Munnar Tea Plantations

Nestled among rolling hills, Munnar's tea estates stretch as far as the eye can see, with neatly lined bushes forming vivid green waves across the valleys. Walking through the plantations or cycling along misty paths offers both exercise and endless photo opportunities. You can visit local tea factories to learn how tea is processed, from plucking the leaves to brewing the cup. In February, the hills are particularly clear. Don't miss the panoramic view from the top.

Pondicherry

Stroll along the French Quarter with its pastel-colored buildings, boutique cafés, and quiet streets, then make your way to the seafront promenade where the gentle waves of the Bay of Bengal set the mood. The town's colonial charm blends effortlessly with Indian culture, while nearby Auroville invites exploration of spiritual and sustainable living experiments. February's pleasant conditions make leisurely beach walks, outdoor cafés, and yoga sessions especially enjoyable, adding a relaxed, sun-kissed feel to the town's distinctive charm.

Auroville Nearby Pondicherry

Ranthambore National Park

For wildlife spotting at Ranthambore National Park, February is a good month. With reduced water sources, tigers, leopards, and other wildlife are more easily seen in the open. Guided safaris provide thrilling encounters with the park's diverse fauna, set against scenic landscapes dotted with ancient forts and temples. This combination of adventure, wildlife, and natural beauty makes Rajasthan a memorable destination in this month.

Suggested February Itineraries by Theme

Cultural & Architectural:

Route: Delhi - Agra - Jaipur - Udaipur

Explore Mughal and Rajput heritage under clear February skies. Walk through Delhi's historic lanes, admire the Taj Mahal without haze, and visit Jaipur's forts and palaces. Udaipur's lakes glisten and palaces are photogenic, ideal for travelers interested in history, photography, and immersive cultural experiences. With fewer tourists in February, hotel rates and guided tours are generally more affordable than in peak season.

Nature & Wildlife:

Route: Delhi - Agra - Ranthambhore - Jaipur - Pushkar - Jodhpur - Ranakpur - Udaipur

Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, Ranthambhore offers excellent visibility and predictable animal activity. Tigers, deer, and birds are active during cooler days. Combine safaris with cultural stops in Jaipur, Pushkar, and Udaipur for a balanced experience of India's heritage and nature. Light hiking, scenic drives, and birdwatching add variety. With fewer crowds in February, accommodations and guided activities tend to offer better value.

Leisure & Slow-Paced:

Route: Kochi - Munnar - Periyar - Alleppey - Kovalam - Trivandrum

Start in Kochi, exploring colonial-era sites like the Dutch Palace and harbor life. Then head to Munnar, where misty tea plantations invite slow walks and lush views under February's clear skies. From there, continue to Periyar for a wildlife boat ride where dry-season conditions improve your chances of spotting animals. Finally, unwind with a houseboat cruise through Alleppey backwaters, then relax on the sands of Kovalam Beach. Traveling in February also offers better rates for houseboats and hill-station stays, making this a cost-effective way to enjoy Kerala.

Top Indian Festivals in February

Jaisalmer Desert Festival (Maru Mahotsav)

A three-day celebration in the Thar Desert each February, this festival brings Rajasthani culture to life with camel races, turban-tying contests, folk dances, and music under the moonlit dunes.

Goa Carnival

Held around late February, Goa's carnival is a colorful, party-filled event with floats, street parades, dance, and Portuguese heritage all around.

Maha Shivaratri

This important Hindu festival honors Lord Shiva with night-long vigils, offerings, and temple rituals. It offers a deeply spiritual experience for both locals and visitors, especially in historic temples across India.

Travel Tips for February

• Desert nights in Rajasthan remain chilly; bring warm layers for overnight stays.

• February sees fewer crowds than December-January, but festivals (like Pushkar Camel Fair) require advance bookings.

• Safaris are best in the morning and late afternoon when animals are most active.