Weather in Kolkata

Stay informed about the latest weather conditions in the city of Kolkata. Below you will find current data, forecasts, and useful weather charts to help you plan your day.

The climate in Kolkata, India, is characterized as tropical monsoon. This means the city experiences hot and humid weather for most of the year, with distinct seasonal changes defined mainly by rainfall levels rather than sharp temperature drops. Overall, it is warm year-round, but humidity can greatly affect how the heat feels.

Three main seasons can be distinguished in Kolkata. The cool and dry season usually lasts from November to February. During this time, the average temperature ranges from 19°C to 22°C, and rainfall is minimal, making this period the most comfortable for walking and sightseeing. From March to May comes the hot and dry pre-monsoon period, when daytime temperatures can rise above 35°C, and the number of rainy days gradually increases, heralding the imminent start of the rainy season.

The monsoon season in Kolkata lasts roughly from June to September, sometimes extending into early October. During these months, the vast majority of annual rainfall occurs, and air humidity reaches maximum values. July and August are the wettest months, when rainfall can be very intense and prolonged. Despite the rain, air temperature remains high, averaging around 29-30°C. By October, the monsoon retreats, rainfall decreases, and the weather gradually becomes drier and more pleasant.

The temperature regime in Kolkata is distinguished by marked seasonality, although sharp temperature fluctuations during the year are not observed. The annual range of average temperatures varies from 19.0°C in January to 30.7°C in June. The hottest months are usually April, May, and June, when the average temperature confidently stays above 30°C (April and May – 30.5°C, June – 30.7°C), and average maximum values in April can reach 35.9°C. The coolest month is considered to be January, with an average temperature of about 19.0°C and average minimum night temperatures dropping to 13.1°C.

The summer period in Kolkata, covering the months roughly from March to October, is characterized by high temperatures and significant humidity, especially during the monsoon season (June-September). Average maximum temperatures in these months vary from 30.9°C (in October) to 35.9°C (in April), and average minimum night temperatures rarely drop below 21.5°C (in March), rising to 27.5°C in June. Winter, from November to February, brings significant relief. This period is distinguished by mild and pleasant weather. Average maximum daytime temperatures during winter months range from 24.9°C (in January) to 28.9°C (in November), and night temperatures drop to a comfortable 13.1°C - 18.8°C, creating more favourable conditions for exploring the city.

Temperature fluctuations between day and night are most noticeable during the drier winter months (from November to February), when the difference between the average maximum and average minimum temperature can be around 10-12°C. For example, in January, the average maximum temperature reaches 24.9°C, while the average minimum drops to 13.1°C. In the summer and monsoon months, due to high humidity, this difference usually decreases, averaging 5-8°C (for instance, in July the difference between 31.9°C and 26.9°C is 5°C). Overall, Kolkata's climate requires readiness for heat and humidity for most of the year, with the most comfortable cool season in winter.

In Kolkata, there is a clearly defined seasonality in the distribution of precipitation throughout the year, characterized by a prolonged wet season and a shorter dry period. The amount of rainfall and the number of rainy days vary significantly from month to month, determining the climatic conditions for residents and visitors to the city.

The rainy season in Kolkata, according to the provided data, usually falls within the period from June to September, peaking in July and August. In August, the highest amount of precipitation falls – 11 mm, with 29 days being rainy. July is also very humid: with 10 mm of precipitation, it rains almost daily (30 rainy days). September continues this trend with 10 mm of precipitation and 27 rainy days. May and October are transitional months, when the amount of precipitation and rainy days is noticeably higher than in the dry season, but lower than the peak monsoon values (May: 5 mm, 16 rainy days; October: 6 mm, 15 rainy days). The nature of precipitation during this period, judging by the combination of a large number of rainy days and a moderate total number of millimeters, suggests frequent, but perhaps not always intense, rains.

The dry season in Kolkata covers the months from November to February, as well as early spring. The driest month is January, when no precipitation is recorded at all (0 mm) and only 2 rainy days are observed. February, November, and December are also characterized by minimal rainfall (1 mm each) and a low number of rainy days (2-3 days). March and April show a gradual increase in both rainfall amount (1 mm and 2 mm respectively) and the number of days with rain (6 and 10 days respectively), heralding the approach of the wet season. During these dry months, rainfall, if it occurs, is extremely rare and insignificant.

When planning a trip to Kolkata, it is important to choose your wardrobe correctly, considering its tropical monsoon climate with distinct seasons. Generally, you will need light, breathable clothing. From November to February, during the cool and dry season, t-shirts, light shirts, and trousers or skirts will be comfortable during the day. Evenings and early mornings can be cool (minimum temperature in January is around 13°C), so bring a light jacket, sweater, or shawl. This is also the driest time of the year, so an umbrella will likely not be needed, but sunscreen and headwear remain relevant.

From March to May comes the hot pre-monsoon period, when temperatures rise significantly (maximum in April up to 35.9°C). During this time, very light natural fabrics such as cotton and linen are preferable. Don't forget sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and strong sunscreen. The number of rainy days begins to grow, so a compact umbrella or a light raincoat may be useful, especially closer to May. The monsoon season, from June to September (and sometimes October), brings high humidity and frequent, sometimes heavy, rains (up to 30 rainy days in July). During this period, waterproof shoes or sandals that are water-resistant, quick-drying clothes, a sturdy umbrella, and possibly a light raincoat are mandatory. Due to high humidity, synthetic clothing can be uncomfortable.

Regardless of the season, comfortable walking shoes are your main companion in Kolkata, as the city invites walking. The principle of layering clothing can be useful, especially in transitional months or if you plan to visit air-conditioned places. A light scarf or stole will come in handy not only for sun protection but also for visiting religious sites where covering shoulders is required. Do not forget insect repellent, especially during the rainy season. A power adapter and a portable charger may also prove useful.