Weather in Madurai

Planning your visit to Madurai? In this section, you will find the most up-to-date weather information, including detailed forecasts, to ensure your trip goes perfectly.

The climate in Madurai, located in India, is characterized as tropical. This means the city boasts hot weather throughout most of the year. Temperature fluctuations during the year are not very large, but several periods with distinct weather conditions can be identified, which is important to consider when planning a trip.

In general, three main seasons can be distinguished in Madurai. The hot and mostly dry season lasts roughly from March to May, when daytime temperatures reach their peak, often exceeding 35-37°C. Then, from June to September, the Southwest Monsoon period arrives, bringing some relief from extreme temperatures but increasing the number of rainy days, although the rains themselves may not be too heavy. The wettest period, associated with the Northeast Monsoon, falls in October and November – during this time, the highest number of rainy days is observed, and the bulk of precipitation falls. From December to February, more cool and dry weather sets in with average temperatures around 25-26°C, making this time the most comfortable for many travellers.

Thus, travellers should be prepared for warm or hot weather at any time of the year. Light, breathable clothing will be your best companion. If you plan to visit Madurai between May and November, especially in October-November, do not forget an umbrella or raincoat, as the likelihood of rain is high during this time.

In Madurai, the temperature regime remains predominantly warm throughout the year, but with noticeable seasonal fluctuations. The hottest months are typically April and May, when the average daytime temperature confidently stays above 31°C, and maximum values often reach 36-37°C. Nights during this period are also very warm, with an average minimum temperature of around 26°C. The coolest months are considered to be December and January, when the average temperature is about 25.3-25.4°C. During these months, daytime highs are usually in the comfortable range of 29-30°C, and nighttime lows drop to 20.5-21.8°C, bringing pleasant freshness.

The summer period in Madurai, covering the months from March to June, is characterized by rising heat. Starting in March, when the average temperature already approaches 30°C and the maximum can reach almost 36°C, the heat gradually intensifies. April becomes the peak of this sweltering season with the highest monthly average and maximum temperatures. Even in June, despite the possible onset of monsoon rains, the average temperature remains high, around 30.9°C, with maximums up to 35.9°C. This time requires light clothing and sun protection.

The winter months, from December to February, offer the most mild and pleasant weather conditions for visiting Madurai. Average temperatures fluctuate in the range of 25-27°C, creating a comfortable atmosphere for walking and sightseeing. A characteristic feature of this period, as well as the drier spring months, is noticeable daily temperature fluctuations: the difference between the daytime maximum and nighttime minimum can range from 7°C to 12°C. For example, in January, the daytime temperature can reach 30°C, while at night it drops to 20.5°C, making evenings and early morning hours particularly fresh.

Madurai experiences distinct seasonality in rainfall distribution throughout the year. The city experiences both dry periods and months with more frequent rains. Generally, the beginning of the year is characterized by minimal precipitation. Thus, February and March are the driest months when, according to averaged data, there is practically no rainfall (0 mm), and the number of rainy days is only about 2. January is also distinguished by a small amount of precipitation, just 1 mm and approximately 5 rainy days.

Starting from April, the amount of precipitation and rainy days gradually increases, signalling the approach of a wetter period. In April, about 2 mm of precipitation falls across 9 rainy days, and in May, the number of rainy days rises to 16 with 3 mm of precipitation. The summer months, from June to September, are also characterized by a moderate number of rainy days (from 14 to 17), with rainfall volume ranging from 2 to 4 mm. The main peak of the rainy season in Madurai falls in October and November. In October, about 6 mm of precipitation falls, and the number of rainy days reaches a maximum — approximately 22 days. November is the wettest month in terms of precipitation amount (about 8 mm) and also has a large number of rainy days (about 21).

After the peak in October-November, the amount of precipitation and rainy days begins to decrease. In December, about 4 mm of precipitation falls, and the number of rainy days drops to approximately 11. Thus, Madurai is characterized by a long period with a probability of rain, which reaches its apogee in autumn, while late winter and early spring are the driest times of the year. Snow is not characteristic of Madurai due to high temperatures year-round.

When planning a trip to Madurai, it is important to choose the right wardrobe to feel comfortable in any weather. Given that it is warm in the city all year round, the basis of your luggage should be light, breathable clothing made from natural fabrics such as cotton or linen. T-shirts, loose shirts, shorts, skirts, and light trousers will be the ideal choice. Since temperatures even in the "cool" months (December-January) reach 29-30°C during the day, you are unlikely to need warm clothes, although a light cardigan or shawl may be useful for evening walks or for visiting air-conditioned spaces. Do not forget comfortable shoes for long walks around temple complexes and city streets – sandals or light trainers will be perfect.

Particular attention should be paid to protection from the sun and possible precipitation. The sun in India can be very active, so be sure to bring sunscreen with a high SPF, headwear (a hat or cap), and sunglasses. The period from April to November, and especially the months of October and November, are characterized by an increase in the number of rainy days. During this time, a light umbrella or raincoat will become your reliable companion. Even in other months, when rainfall is lower, short showers are not excluded, so a compact umbrella will not go amiss. The principle of layering clothing will help you adapt to small temperature changes between the hot day and the fresher evening, especially in the period from December to February.

Besides clothing, consider other useful items. Insect repellent may come in handy, especially in the evening. If you plan to visit temples, bear in mind that clothing covering shoulders and knees may be required, so a light scarf or pareo will be very useful. It is also recommended to carry a small first aid kit with basic medications. A properly packed suitcase will allow you to enjoy your trip to Madurai without unnecessary worries and with maximum comfort.