The Gandhi Jayanti Long Weekend (October 2–4)
The month kicks off with a guaranteed three-day weekend thanks to Gandhi Jayanti, a national holiday on Friday, October 2. This is an ideal opportunity for a short, refreshing trip without needing to take any extra leave. The post-monsoon weather across
the country makes it a great time for quick getaways. Consider a trip to the hills, where the air is crisp and the scenery is lush. Destinations like Shimla in Himachal Pradesh or Ooty in the Nilgiris offer a perfect escape. Alternatively, for those seeking adventure and spirituality, Rishikesh in Uttarakhand provides a mix of river rafting and serene Ganga aartis. Since it's a popular weekend for travel, booking your accommodation and transport well in advance is highly recommended to avoid last-minute price surges.
The Grandeur of Durga Puja (October 16–20)
For a truly immersive cultural experience, nothing beats Durga Puja in West Bengal. In 2026, the main festivities are clustered between Friday, October 16 (Shashthi) and Tuesday, October 20 (Vijayadashami). This creates another potential long weekend. Kolkata is the epicentre of the celebrations, transforming into a living art gallery with elaborate 'pandals' (temporary structures housing the idol of Goddess Durga), stunning light displays, and the reverberating sound of the 'dhaak' (a traditional drum). The energy is infectious as locals and tourists go pandal-hopping day and night. The festival is a feast for the senses, offering incredible street food and a chance to witness deep-rooted traditions. A trip to Kolkata during Durga Puja is a cultural spectacle you won't forget.
The Royal Spectacle of Dussehra (October 20)
Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, marking the culmination of the Navratri festival. This festival celebrates the victory of good over evil. While celebrated across India, some cities offer a truly unique experience. Mysuru in Karnataka is famous for its grand Dussehra procession, featuring decorated elephants, cultural troupes, and a torch-light parade at the Bannimantap Grounds. The magnificent Mysuru Palace is illuminated with thousands of bulbs, creating a breathtaking sight. Another incredible destination is Kullu in Himachal Pradesh, where the Dussehra celebrations begin when they end in the rest of the country. Their week-long festival is a vibrant display of local culture, music, and dance, centered around the worship of local deities. By taking a single day of leave on Monday, October 19, you can create a four-day mini-vacation.
Embrace the Pleasant Weather
Beyond the festivals, October is simply one of the best months to travel in India. The monsoons have retreated, leaving behind lush green landscapes and pleasant, comfortable weather across most of the country. It’s an ideal time to explore the forts and palaces of Rajasthan, where the temperatures are more forgiving. Cities like Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jodhpur are magnificent during this period. For beach lovers, Goa's tourist season kicks into high gear, with beach shacks reopening and a vibrant atmosphere returning to its shores. In the south, Kerala's backwaters are serene and inviting, perfect for a houseboat cruise. For adventure enthusiasts, destinations like Bir Billing in Himachal Pradesh are open for paragliding and trekking. With clear skies and comfortable days, it's the perfect month for sightseeing, adventure sports, or simply relaxing.
