India's climate is heavily influenced by the Himalayas and the Thar Desert, both of which drive the crucial summer monsoons. The Köppen climate classification varies wildly, encompassing alpine tundra and glaciers in the north, arid deserts in the west, and tropical rainforests in the southwest and island territories.
The country generally experiences four distinct seasons: Winter (December to February), Summer (March to May), Monsoon (June to September), and Post-Monsoon (October to November). Average temperatures range from freezing in the northern mountains to sweltering highs exceeding 45°C (113°F) in the northern plains during summer.
The southwest monsoon provides over 75% of India's annual rainfall, a lifeline for its agriculture. The best time to visit most of the country is during the winter months (November to March) when the weather is cool and dry. India is prone to natural disasters, including cyclones along the eastern coast, seasonal flooding in the river plains, and occasional droughts and earthquakes.
