Delhi, India's sprawling capital territory, is a city where ancient monuments stand beside ultramodern malls and Mughal gardens shadow gleaming corporate towers. As one of the world's most populous cities, Delhi offers an intoxicating blend of history spanning 3,000 years, from Iron Age settlements to British colonial architecture. The city serves as the political, cultural, and commercial heart of India, drawing millions of visitors annually to its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, vibrant street food scene, and legendary bazaars.
Delhi experiences a hot semi-arid climate (Köppen BSh) with four distinct seasons: a cold, foggy winter (November–February), an extremely hot summer (April–June), a monsoon season with heavy rainfall (July–September), and a brief pleasant post-monsoon period (October). The best time to visit is October through March, with November and February being particularly ideal. Air pollution is a major concern from October through January, when crop burning in neighboring states and Diwali firecrackers combine with atmospheric conditions to create hazardous smog.
Best time to visit
Best: October to March
Avoid:
Month-by-month weather
Typical conditions throughout the year.
January
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February
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March
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April
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May
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June
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July
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August
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September
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October
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November
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December
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The seasons
What to expect in each part of the year.
Winter
Delhi's most pleasant and popular tourist season. Temperatures are cool and comfortable for sightseeing. December and January bring cold nights (sometimes below 5°C) and dense fog that disrupts flights and trains, particularly in January. Air pollution is worst during this period, especially November–January. Pack layers and an N95 mask.
Months: November – February
Spring / Pre-Summer
A brief pleasant window before summer heat sets in. March is ideal with Holi festival celebrations. Temperatures rise quickly through April. Air quality improves significantly from March onward. Gardens and parks are lush and green.
Months: March – April
Summer
Delhi's most brutal season with temperatures regularly reaching 42–45°C. Loo winds (hot, dry desert winds) blow in from Rajasthan. Pre-monsoon dust storms (andhi) can arise suddenly, turning the sky orange. Strongly advised to avoid if possible; if you must visit, confine outdoor activities to early morning and evening. Air-conditioned venues and monuments with shade are manageable.
Months: May – June
Monsoon
The southwest monsoon arrives in Delhi around late June to early July. Rainfall significantly cools the city and dramatically improves air quality. Temperatures drop from summer highs but remain warm and humid. Flooding of low-lying areas (including roads) is common in heavy downpours. Dengue mosquito risk increases. The city turns lush green and parks become beautiful.
Months: July – September
Post-Monsoon / Autumn
October is one of Delhi's most pleasant months as the monsoon withdraws, leaving clear skies and comfortable temperatures. However, air pollution begins building from late October with Diwali celebrations and crop burning. The window of genuinely good air quality is only about 2–3 weeks in early to mid-October.
Months: October
Major events & festivals
Time your visit around what matters.
Republic Day
India's most important national event. A grand military parade on Kartavya Path (formerly Rajpath) from Rashtrapati Bhawan to India Gate. Includes military displays, cultural tableaux from all states, and a Presidential address. Tickets required for seating.
Holi
The festival of colors. Delhi erupts in celebrations with colored powder (gulal) and water. Major public celebrations at Connaught Place, Hauz Khas, and housing societies.
Diwali
The festival of lights. Delhi transforms with oil lamps, fairy lights, and fireworks over several days. Markets are packed with shoppers buying sweets, crackers, and gifts. The celebrations are spectacular but cause severe air pollution immediately after.
Independence Day
India's Independence Day is celebrated at Red Fort with the Prime Minister hoisting the national flag and addressing the nation. Kite flying is traditional on this day across Delhi rooftops.
India International Trade Fair
One of Asia's largest trade fairs at Pragati Maidan, showcasing goods from all Indian states and international exhibitors. Popular with families.
Navratri
Nine-night Hindu festival with garba and dandiya dance celebrations across Delhi. Large public events at Connaught Place, Chhatarpur Temple, and Akshardham.
Beating Retreat
A ceremonial event marking the end of Republic Day celebrations. Military bands perform at Vijay Chowk near Rashtrapati Bhawan at sunset. Tickets required.