Best Time to Travel by Train in India: A Weather & Comfort Guide
The vast train network and the scenic beauty enhance the travel experience that Indian railways offer the passengers. The most enchanting views and travel experience amplify the whole trip. There are many trains in India that give the best views of snow-capped himalayas, golden desserts and green land. During train travel, comfort is the major aspect and choosing the best time to travel. Before planning for a journey take care of these such as weather conditions, crowd, traffic during festivals and train schedule.
RailMitra is the best train food delivery app and passenger companion that offers you a comfortable journey. RailMitra gives you all the required information that makes your train journey easier. This app has all the features like Seat availability, Live train running status and even passengers can order food in train by using this app.
Why Season Matters When Travel by Train in India
The climate varies according to India’s diverse geography from one region to another. During the train journey passengers will pass through the cold and humidity during night and day.
Choosing the right time for your route can ensure:
Pleasant temperatures throughout the journey
- Fewer delays due to weather
- Less crowded coaches
- Better food availability and hygiene
- Enhanced scenic beauty
Let’s explore each season to determine the best times to travel by train.
Winter (October to February): The Golden Window for Train Travel
Why It’s Ideal:
Pleasant weather across most of India
Excellent visibility for scenic routes
Low chances of train cancellations (except in extreme fog)
Top Routes to Explore:
Kalka to Shimla (toy train)
Delhi to Jaisalmer
Bengaluru to Goa
Howrah to Darjeeling
Tips for Comfort:
Carry layered clothing, especially for Northern routes
Use RailMitra’s live train running status to check for fog-related delays
Pre-order hot meals using RailMitra’s food delivery in train feature
Pro Tip: December and January can see delays due to dense fog in North India. Use the RailMitra app to track exact train locations and real-time delays.
Spring (March to April): The Blooming Season
Why It’s Good:
Longer days and mild temperatures
Great for exploring central and eastern India
Less crowded compared to winter holidays
Top Routes:
Mumbai to Aurangabad (for Ajanta-Ellora)
Chennai to Kanyakumari
Ahmedabad to Udaipur
Tips:
Stay hydrated and avoid peak sun hours for getting off at stations
Use RailMitra’s platform locator to find your train coach quickly
Pro Tip: Beat the heat by booking early morning or night trains. RailMitra lets you check seat availability by train class and timing.
Monsoon (June to September): Scenic but Tricky
Why It’s Risky but Rewarding:
Lush green views, especially on Western Ghats routes
Risk of delays due to landslides and waterlogging
Best Routes (with Caution):
Pune to Goa (via Konkan Rail)
Mangalore to Kochi
Siliguri to Guwahati
Tips:
Keep an umbrella and waterproof covers for luggage
Avoid tight connections — opt for direct trains when possible
Use RailMitra to check train schedule changes and running status
Pro Tip: RailMitra’s PNR status predictor helps if you’re on the waiting list a common issue during monsoon disruptions.
Summer (May to Early June): Best for High-Altitude Escapes
Why It Can Work:
Hill stations are cooler, offering relief from plains heat
Scenic mountain trains operate at full capacity
Top Summer Escapes:
Kalka–Shimla toy train
Jammu–Katra (Vaishno Devi)
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
Neral–Matheran in Maharashtra
Tips:
Avoid general class or non-AC coaches in the plains
Book AC compartments in advance via RailMitra seat availability checker.
Use RailMitra’s IRCTC integration to find food vendors at higher elevations.
Pro Tip: Use the station alarm feature on RailMitra so you don’t miss your hill stop amidst a comfy AC nap!
Festival Periods: Plan Ahead or Stay Flexible
Indian trains are notoriously packed during:
Diwali (October–November)
Holi (March)
Durga Puja (September–October)
Summer vacations (April–June)
What to Expect:
Limited seat availability
Slower boarding at major stations
More families traveling with luggage
Tips:
Book 60–120 days in advance
Use RailMitra to check alternate train routes and train options
Opt for meals via RailMitra instead of crowded pantry services
Why RailMitra is a Game-Changer for Seasonal Travel
Regardless of the season, RailMitra ensures smoother, smarter train travel with:
PNR Status Prediction: Get real-time updates and confirmation chances, especially during rush periods.
Live Train Running Status: Track your train’s exact location and ETA. Essential during monsoon and winter.
Seat Availability Checker: Find available seats on alternative trains and dates in seconds.
Food Delivery in Train: Order fresh, regional cuisine at selected stations and enjoy hygienic meals during the ride.
Platform & Coach Locator: Avoid last-minute platform scrambles — know where your train and coach will arrive.
Best Time by Region
RegionBest Travel Season:
North India October–March
South India November–February
Western India October–February
Eastern India November–March
Northeast India November–April
Conclusion
Traveling by train in India is more than just a trip; it gives you the best experiences by offering you the best views and food in train. If you are interested to travel solo, with family or for any business purposes choose the appropriate time to travel for a comfortable journey.
And when you’re backed by a powerful travel assistant like RailMitra, that gives you the real time updates and makes your journey stress free. This is the best travel companion for the train travelers.
Whenever you are planning to travel make sure you will plan your journey in advance. Before reaching the station check the live train running status to avoid extra waiting at the station. This app is convenient and easy to use and makes your journey easier.