India's climate is heavily influenced by the Himalayas and the Thar Desert, both of which drive the economically and culturally crucial summer monsoons. The country generally experiences four main seasons: winter (December to February), summer (March to May), the monsoon season (June to September), and the post-monsoon period (October to November).
Temperatures range from freezing in the northern Himalayan regions to sweltering heat exceeding 45°C (113°F) in the central plains and western deserts during summer. The Köppen climate classification for India includes a wide spectrum: Alpine (E) in the mountains, Arid (BWh, BSh) in the west, and Humid Subtropical (Cwa) and Tropical Wet and Dry (Aw, Am) across the plains and southern peninsula. The best time to visit most of the country is during the cooler, drier months of November through March. Natural disasters, including cyclones along the eastern coast, seasonal river flooding, and occasional droughts, are part of the environmental landscape.