When to go on a rail holiday in India

If you want guaranteed sun, then book your rail holiday between October and February, especially if you are heading south.

February through until May are also gorgeous, although more humid, so you definitely want to make sure you have an air conditioned carriage for these travels.

December and January are very busy throughout India and most small group rail tours don't take place during the peak season. Prices are high as well if you are travelling on a tailor made holiday.

If your rail journey takes you through Rajasthan, the best time is considered October to March as days are sunny, not too humid with cooler nights. The desert heat starts to soar April, May and June.

Your journey will be lit the whole way if you travel during Diwali, which falls during October or November and lasts a week. March is Holi Festival, the wonderful festival of colour.

If you hope to visit Ranthambore National Park and go tiger tracking, note that it is closed July, August and September during monsoon season.

If you are travelling by rail in the Ghat Mountains, treat yourself to a quality pashmina between October and February when temperatures can get as low as 5°C.

Similarly, the desert temperatures dip in Rajasthan at night during December, January and February.

Swimming in Goa is not advised between March and May as the winds are strong and the sea is rough. Interestingly, although international tourists avoid it between mid-June until October because of monsoon, this is when local people come out to celebrate. The rains are welcome here. The state's São João festival on 24 June is also a very unique event, celebrated by Goan Christians.

Photo credits: [Temp chart: Vikramjit Kakati ] [What happens when: Sakeeb Sabakka]