Weather in Bhopal

Planning your day in Bhopal? Check out the freshest weather data and forecasts right here. In this section, you will find up-to-date information to help you be ready for any weather conditions.

The climate in Bhopal can be characterised as tropical with a distinct monsoon influence, leading to significant fluctuations in temperature and rainfall throughout the year. Three main seasons are clearly defined in the city: a hot and dry summer, a wet monsoon season, and a mild, dry winter. Understanding these seasonal changes will help you better plan your trip.

The summer period, which lasts roughly from March to May, is distinguished by intense heat. Average daily temperatures in April and May can exceed 30-33°C, while maximum readings often reach 38-40°C. There is practically no rainfall during this time. From June to September, the monsoon season arrives in Bhopal. Air temperatures drop slightly compared to peak summer values, but humidity increases significantly. July and August are the rainiest months, with the highest amount of precipitation (about 13-14 mm) and the maximum number of rainy days (up to 25 days per month). From October to February, the most comfortable weather sets in: days are warm and sunny (average temperature 18-25°C), while nights are cool, especially in December and January. Precipitation during this period is minimal.

The climate in Bhopal is characterised by significant annual temperature fluctuations. The hottest month is usually May, when the average temperature reaches 33.7°C, and maximum values can rise to 39.9°C. Conversely, the coolest month is considered to be January, with an average temperature of 17.6°C and minimum night-time temperatures dropping to 11.3°C. Thus, the annual temperature range in the city is quite wide, offering both periods of intense heat and pleasant coolness.

The summer period in Bhopal begins with increasing heat in April (average temperature 31.0°C) and reaches its peak in May. These months are characterised by dry and very hot weather. With the arrival of the monsoon, usually in June, temperatures decrease slightly (average temperature around 31.4°C, maximum up to 35.9°C), but high humidity, especially in July and August, makes the weather quite muggy, with average temperatures in these months holding around 26-27°C. Winter, covering December, January, and February, brings mild and comfortable weather to Bhopal. Daytime temperatures are pleasant, averaging from 23.9°C in January to 27.9°C in February, while nights become cool but not freezing, with minimum temperatures ranging from 11.3°C to 14.2°C.

Bhopal is characterised by notable diurnal temperature variations, especially in months unaffected by monsoons. For example, in April, the difference between the average maximum (38.0°C) and average minimum (24.0°C) temperature is 14°C. Similar fluctuations are observed in the winter months; for instance, in January, the difference between the maximum (23.9°C) and minimum (11.3°C) temperature is about 12.6°C. During the monsoon period (July-September), due to increased cloud cover and humidity, diurnal temperature variations become less pronounced; for example, in August, the difference between daytime (28.2°C) and night-time (23.5°C) readings shrinks to approximately 4.7°C.

Bhopal experiences distinct seasonality in rainfall, characteristic of a monsoon climate. The year is clearly divided into a long dry period and a relatively short but intense rainy season.

The rainy season in Bhopal usually lasts from June to September. Peak precipitation falls in July and August, with an average of 14 mm and 13 mm of rainfall respectively. These months also see the highest number of rainy days – about 25 days in each. June marks the beginning of the season with approximately 4 mm of rainfall and 15 rainy days, while in September the amount of precipitation is about 8 mm with 21 rainy days. Given the number of rainy days and the total volume of precipitation, rains during this period are likely frequent but may vary in intensity.

The dry season covers most of the year – from October to May. During this period, precipitation is extremely rare or completely absent. The driest months are from January to May, as well as November and December, when the average rainfall is 0 mm, and the number of days with precipitation fluctuates between one and two. October is a transitional month when rainfall decreases to 1 mm, and there are only about four rainy days. Snow is not typical for Bhopal, given the high average annual temperatures.

When planning a trip to Bhopal, it is important to consider its climatic features throughout the year so that your luggage is as functional as possible. In the hot and predominantly dry months, especially from March to May, when daytime temperatures can rise to 38-40°C, and in the warm, dry period from October to November, the main focus should be on light, breathable clothing made from natural fabrics such as cotton or linen. Be sure to bring sunscreen with a high SPF, sunglasses, and headwear (a hat or cap) to protect against the intense sun. Comfortable shoes for walking will be your best companion when sightseeing.

From June to September, the monsoon season arrives in Bhopal, bringing a significant amount of precipitation – up to 14 mm per month and up to 25 rainy days. During this period, you will certainly need a waterproof light jacket or raincoat, as well as a sturdy umbrella. It is recommended to choose shoes that can withstand moisture and dry quickly, or to carry a spare pair. A waterproof case for your phone and documents will also be useful.

The winter months, from December to February, are characterised by milder and more pleasant weather with average temperatures around 17-21°C, although nights and early mornings can be cool (temperatures drop to 11-14°C). For this time of year, the layering principle is ideal: pack t-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, a light sweater or fleece jacket, as well as a windbreaker or light jacket. This will allow you to easily adapt to temperature changes throughout the day and feel comfortable.