As winter begins to loosen its grip and spring edges closer, February remains one of the most favourable months to travel across India. The country’s vast geography ensures that while snow continues to blanket Himalayan slopes in the north, beaches in the south bask in comfortable sunshine and desert regions in the west offer crisp, clear skies. For travellers planning their 2026 getaways, February provides a rare balance of pleasant weather, vibrant festivals and relatively moderate travel costs compared to peak holiday months.
Across northern India, hill destinations retain their winter charm. In Himachal Pradesh, Manali continues to draw visitors seeking snow views and cold-weather experiences. Daytime temperatures typically remain in the single digits Celsius, and higher reaches receive snowfall, making it a preferred month for snow activities and scenic drives. In Jammu and Kashmir, Gulmarg remains one of India’s best-known skiing destinations during February. Its well-known gondola and alpine slopes attract domestic and international winter sports enthusiasts. Similarly, Auli in Uttarakhand, often promoted as a ski hub in the Garhwal Himalayas, offers sweeping mountain panoramas and snow-covered landscapes during this period.
While the mountains cater to winter lovers, western India’s desert state of Rajasthan becomes especially inviting in February. Daytime temperatures are generally mild, making sightseeing far more comfortable than during the intense summer months. Jaisalmer often hosts its celebrated Desert Festival around February, featuring folk performances, camel displays and traditional competitions that reflect local culture. Jaipur, part of the widely travelled Golden Triangle circuit along with Delhi and Agra, also enjoys cool mornings and pleasant afternoons, ideal for exploring forts, palaces and open-air markets.
Central India offers its own cultural draw during the month. The annual Khajuraho Dance Festival in Madhya Pradesh typically takes place in February against the backdrop of the UNESCO-recognised temple complex. The festival showcases classical Indian dance traditions and attracts performers and visitors from across the country. In the National Capital Region, the Surajkund International Crafts Mela, usually organised in February in Faridabad, highlights traditional handicrafts and cultural performances from Indian states and participating countries.
Southern and coastal destinations experience some of their most comfortable weather conditions in February. Goa remains a popular choice, with warm but not oppressive temperatures and lower humidity compared to the approaching summer. Beach activities, water sports and evening outings are generally more comfortable at this time of year. In Tamil Nadu, Kanyakumari — the southernmost tip of mainland India — benefits from relatively cooler breezes and clear skies, allowing travellers to explore coastal viewpoints and cultural landmarks without the intensity of peak summer heat. Kerala’s backwaters and coastal towns similarly enjoy mild temperatures, supporting houseboat stays and nature excursions.
Weather data for February across much of India indicates moderate daytime temperatures in the plains, often ranging between the mid-teens to high-twenties Celsius depending on the region. Northern mountainous areas remain colder, sometimes dipping below freezing at higher altitudes, while southern coastal belts maintain warm yet manageable conditions. This climatic diversity enables travellers to tailor trips according to preference, whether seeking snow, sunshine or cultural exploration.
From a budget perspective, February can be strategically advantageous. The rush associated with Christmas and New Year holidays has subsided, and in many destinations, accommodation rates stabilise before the onset of spring and summer vacations. Advance booking of flights and trains continues to be advisable, particularly for high-demand destinations such as Goa or hill stations, but travellers may find greater flexibility compared to peak winter weeks. Mid-week travel and early reservations often contribute to more economical fares. Choosing local guesthouses, homestays or state tourism properties instead of luxury resorts can further reduce expenses while offering a more authentic regional experience.
Food costs in most Indian cities remain affordable compared to international travel destinations, and sampling regional cuisine at established local eateries can help manage daily budgets without compromising on quality. Public transportation networks, including Indian Railways and state-run buses, provide cost-effective connectivity between major tourist hubs.
February also coincides with significant cultural and religious observances in some regions, depending on the lunar calendar. Festivals such as Maha Shivratri, which typically falls in late February or early March, draw devotees to temples across the country, adding a spiritual dimension to travel in select cities and pilgrimage towns.
As India prepares for another busy travel year in 2026, February stands out for its balance. It offers snow in the north without the harshest winter extremes, sunshine in the south without summer heat, and a calendar dotted with festivals that reflect the country’s living traditions. For travellers seeking diverse landscapes, manageable weather and thoughtful budgeting opportunities, February remains one of the most compelling months to explore India’s breadth and cultural depth.
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Last Updated on: Monday, February 16, 2026 2:22 pm by News Proton Team | Published by: News Proton Team on Monday, February 16, 2026 2:22 pm | News Categories: Travel