10 Must Visit Places In India In October

October in India ushers in the beauty of autumn – a season when the heavy monsoon showers have receded, the skies are brilliantly clear, and a refreshing crispness fills the air. The weather strikes the perfect balance, neither too hot nor too cold, making it ideal for outdoor adventures, cultural explorations, and long road trips. It also marks the start of the festive season, with vibrant celebrations like Navratri, Dussehra, and Diwali bringing life and colour to every corner of the country.

Whether you’re chasing adventure, culture, wildlife, spirituality, or simply looking to unwind, October has something for every type of traveller. What’s more, many of these destinations are easily accessible by bus, offering a convenient, scenic, and budget-friendly way to travel. From luxurious Volvo coaches to economical sleeper buses, the journey becomes as enjoyable as the destination itself.

So, if you’re planning your next getaway, here’s a carefully curated list of the 10 best destinations to visit in India in October, complete with detailed guides on things to do and tips on reaching each place by bus.

# Jaipur, Rajasthan – The Pink City

Things to Do:

Amer Fort: Explore its majestic architecture, intricate carvings, Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), and enjoy an elephant ride up the ramparts.

Hawa Mahal: Snap photos of this honeycomb-shaped palace, especially in the soft morning light.

City Palace & Jantar Mantar: Wander through royal courtyards and marvel at historic astronomical instruments.

Shopping: Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar are perfect for jewellery, textiles, and handicrafts.

Cuisine: Don’t miss Dal Baati Churma, Ghevar, and spicy kachoris.

Getting There by Bus:

RSRTC and private operators offer frequent buses from Delhi, Agra, and Udaipur. Volvo and sleeper buses from Delhi take around 6–7 hours (260 km).

# Rishikesh, Uttarakhand – Yoga Capital & Adventure Hub

Things to Do:

River Rafting: Tackle Grade II–IV rapids on the Ganga for an adrenaline rush.

Yoga Retreats: Join classes or multi-day programs at renowned ashrams.

Lakshman Jhula & Ram Jhula: Stroll across suspension bridges with scenic river views.

Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat: Witness the evening ritual with chants, diyas, and bells.

Trekking & Camping: Short treks to Neer Garh waterfalls and riverside camping.

Getting There by Bus:

Uttarakhand Roadways and private Volvos connect Delhi to Rishikesh in 6–7 hours. From Dehradun, frequent buses take 1.5 hours.

# Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh – Land of Monasteries

Things to Do:

Key Monastery: Visit this ancient monastery overlooking Kaza.

Chandratal Lake: Camp by this turquoise high-altitude lake.

Tabo Monastery: Known as the “Ajanta of the Himalayas” for its historic murals.

Pin Valley National Park: Trek in snow leopard territory and alpine landscapes.

Village Homestays: Experience authentic local life in Langza and Komik.

Getting There by Bus:

HRTC buses run from Shimla to Kaza via Reckong Peo (12–14 hours). Seasonal buses from Manali (via Rohtang and Kunzum Pass) operate if roads are open.

# Udaipur, Rajasthan – City of Lakes

Things to Do:

City Palace: Explore royal courtyards, museums, and panoramic lake views.

Lake Pichola Boat Ride: Enjoy sunset cruises with views of Jag Mandir and Lake Palace.

Fateh Sagar Lake: Relax at lakeside cafes or enjoy pedal boating.

Saheliyon Ki Bari: Stroll through gardens with fountains, lotus pools, and marble pavilions.

Local Markets: Shop for miniature paintings, silver jewellery, and Rajasthani handicrafts.

Getting There by Bus:

RSRTC and private Volvos connect Jaipur (8 hours), Ahmedabad (6 hours), and Jodhpur (5 hours). Overnight buses are available.

# Rann of Kutch, Gujarat – The White Desert

Things to Do:

Salt Desert Walks: Wander the vast white plains, especially under moonlight.

Cultural Experiences: Visit Dhordo for handicrafts, embroidery, and Kutchi folk music.

Kalo Dungar (Black Hill): Enjoy panoramic desert views.

Mandvi Beach: Relax with camel rides and watch stunning sunsets.

Wildlife Tours: Spot flamingos and desert foxes in nearby sanctuaries.

Getting There by Bus:

GSRTC buses run from Ahmedabad to Bhuj (8–9 hours). From Bhuj, local buses or jeeps reach Dhordo (80 km).

# Goa – Beaches, Music & Culture

Things to Do:

Beaches: Chill at Baga, Palolem, Vagator, or Colva – each has a unique vibe.

Water Sports: Try parasailing, jet skiing, scuba diving, and snorkeling.

Old Goa: Explore UNESCO churches like Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral.

Forts & Views: Visit Aguada and Chapora Fort for breathtaking sunsets.

Nightlife: Beach shacks, clubs, and flea markets keep the nights lively.

Getting There by Bus:

Volvo buses operated by VRL, KSRTC, and Kadamba Transport run from Mumbai (12 hrs), Pune (10 hrs), and Bangalore (10 hrs).

# Mysuru, Karnataka – The Royal City

Things to Do:

Mysore Palace: See the palace illuminated during Dasara.

Dasara Festival: Witness grand processions with decorated elephants and cultural shows.

Chamundi Hills: Climb 1,000 steps to the temple for city views.

Brindavan Gardens: Famous for musical fountain displays.

Local Shopping: Pick up Mysore silk sarees and sandalwood products.

Getting There by Bus:

KSRTC luxury buses connect Bangalore (3–4 hrs). Overnight buses also run from Chennai (8 hrs) and Hyderabad (12 hrs).

# Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh – Tiger Territory

Things to Do:

Safari Rides: Jeep safaris increase your chances of spotting tigers.

Bandhavgarh Fort: Explore historic ruins with panoramic views.

Birdwatching: Over 250 species, including eagles and owls.

Photography: Capture wildlife, landscapes, and jungle sunrises.

Cultural Tours: Visit tribal villages and local markets nearby.

Getting There by Bus:

Umaria is the nearest town, connected by buses from Jabalpur (100 km), Katni, and Satna. From Umaria, jeeps transport visitors to lodges inside the park.

# Darjeeling, West Bengal – Queen of the Hills

Things to Do:

Toy Train Ride: Experience the UNESCO-listed Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.

Tiger Hill Sunrise: Enjoy golden views of Kanchenjunga and Mount Everest (weather permitting).

Tea Gardens: Stroll through lush estates and sample fresh tea.

Batasia Loop: Scenic train loop with gardens and a war memorial.

Monasteries & Markets: Visit Ghoom Monastery and shop at Chowrasta.

Getting There by Bus:

Buses run from Kolkata to Siliguri (12 hrs). From Siliguri, shared jeeps or buses reach Darjeeling (3 hrs, 65 km uphill).

# Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh – Satpura’s Hidden Gem

Things to Do:

Bee Falls & Duchess Falls: Trek to refreshing waterfalls in serene forests.

Jata Shankar Caves: Explore caves with religious and natural significance.

Pandav Caves: Visit ancient caves linked to the Pandavas.

Viewpoints: Dhoopgarh and Handi Khoh offer stunning sunset and valley vistas.

Stargazing & Relaxation: Enjoy peaceful nights in this quiet hill station.

Getting There by Bus:

Madhya Pradesh State Transport connects Pachmarhi with Bhopal (6 hrs, 200 km) and Indore (9 hrs, 350 km). From Hoshangabad, shared jeeps climb up to Pachmarhi.