Top 10 Places in India with the Lowest Annual Rainfall

India, known for its diverse climate, experiences varying levels of rainfall across its regions, from the wettest places like Mawsynram to the driest deserts of Rajasthan. While the southwest monsoon brings heavy rains to most parts of the country, there are areas that receive very little precipitation annually due to their geographical location, topography, and climatic conditions. These dry zones are often characterized by arid landscapes, sparse vegetation, and extreme temperatures. 

What’s In this Blog:

Top 10 Places with the Lowest Rainfall in India

• Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
• Leh-Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir
• Bikaner, Rajasthan
• Barmer, Rajasthan
• Rann of Kutch, Gujarat
• Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh
• Hanle, Ladakh
• Jodhpur, Rajasthan

Where to Stay in Rajasthan

• Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

Located in the heart of the Thar Desert, Jaisalmer is famously known as the "Golden City" for its stunning sandstone architecture and desert landscape. What sets it apart climatically is its extremely arid environment, Jaisalmer records some of the lowest rainfall in India, making it one of the driest inhabited places in the country. With annual rainfall averaging less than 200 mm, the region experiences long, dry summers and brief, mild winters. Despite its harsh climate, Jaisalmer thrives as a cultural and tourist hub, drawing visitors to its historic forts, desert safaris, and timeless charm.

Best time to visit:

The best time to visit Jaisalmer is from October to March, when the weather is cool and ideal for sightseeing and desert activities. This period avoids the extreme summer heat and showcases the city’s charm at its best.

Things to Do and See in Jaisalmer:

• Explore Jaisalmer Fort: Also known as Sonar Quila, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a massive sandstone fort housing palaces, temples, and bustling bazaars within its walls.
• Desert Safari at Sam Sand Dunes: Ride a camel or jeep across golden dunes, enjoy a desert sunset, and witness traditional Rajasthani folk performances in open-air camps.
• Visit Patwon Ki Haveli: This group of five ornately carved havelis showcases Jaisalmer’s architectural beauty and the opulence of its historic merchant families.
• Relax at Gadsisar Lake: A serene, man-made lake surrounded by shrines and ghats, perfect for quiet walks, birdwatching, and boat rides during sunrise or sunset.

• Leh-Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir

Leh-Ladakh is a strikingly beautiful region in Jammu and Kashmir, known for its barren mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and centuries-old monasteries. Situated in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, it receives extremely low precipitation, placing it among the regions with the lowest rainfall in India. The dry, cold desert landscape, combined with its unique Tibetan-influenced culture, offers a surreal experience that attracts adventure enthusiasts, bikers, and spiritual travellers from around the world.

Best time to visit:

The best time to visit Leh-Ladakh is from May to September, when the weather is pleasant, roads are open, and the region is accessible by both road and air. This period offers clear skies, ideal for sightseeing, trekking, and biking.

Things to Do and See in Leh- Ladakh:

• Visit Pangong Lake: A stunning high-altitude lake that changes shades of blue throughout the day and stretches from India into Tibet, perfect for photography and camping.
• Explore Magnetic Hill: A mysterious stretch of road where vehicles appear to move uphill against gravity, offering a fun and puzzling experience.
• Discover Thiksey Monastery: One of Ladakh’s largest and most beautiful monasteries, known for its hilltop location, large Maitreya Buddha statue, and peaceful ambiance.
• Drive through Khardung La Pass: One of the highest motorable roads in the world, offering panoramic views of snow-covered peaks and thrilling adventure.

• Bikaner, Rajasthan

Bikaner is a historic city in northwest Rajasthan, celebrated for its majestic forts, intricate havelis, and vibrant desert culture. Surrounded by the Thar Desert, Bikaner experiences a dry, arid climate with hot summers and mild winters. The city’s distinctive red sandstone architecture, flavourful cuisine, and traditional festivals make it a fascinating destination for travellers. Despite its desert setting, Bikaner thrives as a cultural and commercial hub, offering a blend of royal heritage and rustic charm.

Best time to visit:

The best time to visit Bikaner is from November to February, when the weather is cool and comfortable for exploring forts, markets, and desert landscapes. This winter period is also when the famous Bikaner Camel Festival is held, adding colour and cultural flair to the visit. Summers are extremely hot and best avoided for travel.

Things to Do and See in Bikaner:

• Explore Junagarh Fort: A magnificent fort complex with palaces, courtyards, and museums showcasing Bikaner’s royal heritage and architectural brilliance.
• Visit Karni Mata Temple: Known as the “Rat Temple,” this unique shrine is home to thousands of sacred rats believed to be reincarnated devotees.
• Stroll Through the Old City: Wander narrow lanes filled with intricately carved havelis, bustling bazaars, and traditional Rajasthani charm.
• Enjoy a Camel Safari: Ride through the desert dunes surrounding Bikaner, offering a glimpse into rural life and stunning desert sunsets.

• Barmer, Rajasthan

Barmer is a quiet desert town located in the westernmost part of Rajasthan, near the India-Pakistan border. Known for its raw natural beauty, folk music, and vibrant embroidery work, Barmer offers an authentic desert experience away from the tourist crowds. Its arid landscape and sparse vegetation are shaped by an extremely dry climate, typical of regions deep within the Thar Desert. Despite the challenging environment, Barmer thrives on its cultural richness, with colourful festivals and traditional crafts keeping its heritage alive.

Best time to visit:

The best time to visit Barmer is from October to February, when the temperatures are cooler and ideal for sightseeing and outdoor exploration. Winter months make it comfortable to enjoy the desert scenery, traditional villages, and local festivals.

Things to Do and See in Barmer:

• Explore Barmer Fort: Visit this historic hilltop fort for sweeping views and ancient temples like Jogmaya Devi and Nagnechi Mata.
• Visit Nakoda Jain Temple: A peaceful pilgrimage site known for its marble structure and spiritual significance.
• Discover Kiradu Temples: Marvel at the intricate carvings of these 11th-century temples set against a rugged desert backdrop.
• Experience Mahabar Sand Dunes: Enjoy camel rides, desert walks, and serene sunsets just outside the town.

• Rann of Kutch, Gujarat

The Rann of Kutch is a vast salt marsh located in the Thar Desert region of Gujarat, stretching into the borderlands of Pakistan. Famous for its surreal white landscapes and the vibrant Rann Utsav festival, this unique region stands out for its extreme climate and arid beauty. With scorching summers, cold winters, and very little annual precipitation, the Rann of Kutch experiences some of the lowest rainfall in India. Despite the harsh environment, it is home to rich wildlife, traditional handicrafts, and colourful cultural traditions that thrive against the stark desert backdrop.

Best time to visit:

The best time to visit the Rann of Kutch is from November to February, during the winter months when the weather is cool and pleasant. This period also coincides with the vibrant Rann Utsav, a cultural festival showcasing traditional music, dance, crafts, and cuisine.

Things to Do and See in Rann of Kutch:

• Attend Rann Utsav: Experience the cultural heart of Kutch through folk performances, handicraft shopping, and local cuisine in a colourful desert tent city.
• Visit White Rann: Walk across the vast white salt flats that stretch to the horizon—most magical during sunrise, sunset, and full moon nights.
• Explore Kala Dungar: The highest point in Kutch offers panoramic views of the Rann and is known for the centuries-old Dattatreya Temple.
• See the Wild Ass Sanctuary: Located in the Little Rann, it’s home to the endangered Indian Wild Ass and offers jeep safaris across a unique salt marsh ecosystem.

• Spiti valley, Himachal Pradesh

Spiti Valley is a high-altitude desert region nestled in the eastern Himalayas of Himachal Pradesh, known for its stark landscapes, ancient monasteries, and remote mountain villages. Shielded by tall peaks, the valley lies in a rain shadow zone and receives some of the lowest rainfall in India, giving it its rugged, barren charm. With dramatic rock formations, turquoise rivers, and snow-covered passes, Spiti offers a raw and spiritual experience for nature lovers, trekkers, and solitude seekers alike.

Best time to visit:

The best time to visit Spiti Valley is from June to September, when the roads are accessible and the weather is ideal for travel and trekking. Winters are harsh and roads often remain closed due to heavy snowfall.

Things to Do and See in Spiti valley:

• Visit Key Monastery: Perched on a hilltop, this 11th-century monastery is a spiritual and architectural highlight with breathtaking views of the Spiti River valley.
• Explore Chandratal Lake: Known as the "Moon Lake," this serene, high-altitude lake is perfect for camping and capturing surreal landscapes.
• Drive Through Kunzum Pass: At over 4,500 metres, this snow-covered pass offers thrilling drives and connects Spiti with Lahaul.
• See the Fossil Village of Langza: A picturesque village known for marine fossils, ancient stupas, and the giant Buddha statue overlooking the valley.

• Hanle, Ladakh

Hanle is a secluded village in southeastern Ladakh, near the Indo-China border, known for its surreal landscapes, ancient monastery, and unmatched stargazing opportunities. Situated at an altitude of over 4,500 metres, Hanle lies in a cold desert zone and receives extremely sparse precipitation, ranking it among areas with the lowest rainfall in India. The region is home to the Indian Astronomical Observatory, one of the highest in the world, making it a paradise for astronomy enthusiasts.

Best time to visit:

The best time to visit Hanle is between May and September, when the roads are open and the weather is relatively stable. During this window, travellers can enjoy star-filled skies, scenic drives, and access to the village’s key attractions.

Things to Do and See in Hanle:

• Stargazing at Hanle Observatory: Visit one of the world's highest observatories and witness crystal-clear night skies, perfect for astrophotography.
• Explore Hanle Monastery: A 17th-century gompa perched on a hill, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into Ladakh’s monastic life.
• Drive to Umling La Pass: One of the world’s highest motorable roads, recently opened to the public, offering a dramatic and thrilling adventure.
• Experience Local Life: Interact with the warm, resilient Changpa nomads and observe their traditional lifestyle in the high-altitude desert.

• Jodhpur, Rajasthan

Jodhpur, often called the "Blue City" for its vividly painted old town houses, is a historic gem in the heart of Rajasthan. Dominated by the imposing Mehrangarh Fort, the city offers a captivating blend of regal architecture, vibrant bazaars, and rich Marwari culture. Located on the edge of the Thar Desert, Jodhpur experiences a hot, arid climate with clear skies and minimal rainfall. Its timeless charm, desert landscapes, and royal heritage make it a must-visit destination for history lovers and cultural explorers alike.

Best time to visit:

The best time to visit Jodhpur is from October to March, when the weather is cooler and ideal for sightseeing. Pleasant temperatures during these months make it perfect for exploring forts, palaces, and markets without the intense desert heat. Avoid visiting in peak summer, as temperatures can soar above 40°C.

Things to Do and See in Jodhpur:

• Explore Mehrangarh Fort: One of India’s most majestic forts, offering panoramic views, museum galleries, and tales of Rajput bravery.
• Visit Jaswant Thada: A serene white marble cenotaph built in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II, set amidst quiet gardens and a peaceful lake.
• Wander Through the Blue City: Stroll through the old town’s narrow lanes, lined with indigo-coloured houses, local markets, and hidden havelis.
• Shop at Sardar Market: Located near the iconic Ghanta Ghar (Clock Tower), this bustling bazaar is perfect for picking up spices, textiles, handicrafts, and traditional Rajasthani items.

Where to stay in Rajasthan:

For a memorable stay in Rajasthan, Club Mahindra Jaisalmer Resort offers the perfect blend of comfort and cultural charm. Located close to the iconic Sam Sand Dunes, this resort in Jaisalmer provides traditional Rajasthani hospitality with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy folk performances, desert adventures, and serene evenings under the stars. It’s an ideal base to explore the rich heritage of Jaisalmer and the surrounding desert landscapes.

A Club Mahindra membership unlocks stays at over 140+ Club Mahindra resorts across India and abroad, allowing you to explore diverse destinations with ease. Booking is seamless and flexible, members can plan vacations months in advance, even during peak seasons. Membership includes access to on-site amenities like swimming pools, spa services, multi-cuisine dining, and adventure activities. Ideal for families and couples, it offers a hassle-free holiday experience with consistent quality and a wide range of curated local experiences.

India’s diverse geography creates a striking contrast between lush monsoon zones and arid regions that receive the lowest rainfall in India. These dry areas, often tucked away in deserts or rain shadow zones, offer more than just extreme climates, they showcase unique landscapes, rich cultural traditions, and unforgettable experiences. Whether it’s the quiet majesty of high-altitude deserts or the vibrant heritage of ancient towns, these destinations reveal the beauty that thrives even in the absence of rain. For travellers seeking something different, these regions provide a compelling journey into India’s lesser-explored, yet equally enchanting side.