Weather in Varanasi

Find out what weather awaits you in Varanasi! In this section, you will find the latest updates, detailed forecasts, and clear charts to make your stay in the city as comfortable as possible.

The climate in Varanasi, located in India, can be described as subtropical monsoon, with distinct seasons. The city experiences hot summers, relatively cool and dry winters, and a wet rainy season. These climatic conditions are typical for this region and play an important role in the life of the city and its traditions.

Three main seasons are clearly defined in Varanasi. The hot and dry season lasts roughly from March to May, when temperatures reach their peak values, often exceeding 38°C. From June to September, the monsoon season arrives, bringing heavy rainfall and high humidity; July and August are the rainiest months. From October to February, cooler and drier weather sets in, with comfortable daytime temperatures, especially from November to February, making this period the most popular among tourists.

Varanasi experiences significant annual temperature variation, characteristic of a subtropical climate. The hottest months are typically May and June, when the average daytime temperature can rise above 37-38°C, and the monthly average reaches 32.5-33.1°C. During these months, nights also remain warm, with minimum temperatures around 26-28°C. Conversely, the coldest month is January, with an average temperature of about 15.5°C. In January, daytime highs can reach a comfortable 21.3°C, but nights can be quite cool, with temperatures dropping to an average of 9.8°C.

The summer period in Varanasi, covering the months from April to June, is characterized by intense heat. In April, the average temperature is around 30.7°C, with maximums reaching 38.2°C. May and June bring peak heat, when daytime temperatures regularly exceed 37°C. During this period, significant daily temperature fluctuations are observed, especially in April and May, when the difference between day and night temperatures can be 12-15°C. With the arrival of the monsoon in late June and throughout July-August, although temperatures drop slightly (averaging around 29-30°C), high humidity makes the weather feel quite sultry.

The winter months, from December to February, offer the most comfortable temperature conditions for visiting Varanasi. In December, the average temperature is about 17.4°C, with daytime highs up to 23.5°C and nighttime lows around 11.4°C. January, as mentioned, is the coolest, but daytime temperatures remain pleasant. February marks a gradual warming, with an average temperature of 19.5°C and daytime highs up to 26.2°C. Daily temperature fluctuations are also noticeable in the winter months, but they are less pronounced than in the pre-monsoon hot season. Transitional months, such as March (average temperature 25.2°C) and October (26.8°C), also offer warm but generally pleasant weather.

Varanasi has a distinct rainfall seasonality, dividing the year into a long dry period and a distinct rainy season. Understanding these cycles will help you better plan your trip and choose appropriate clothing. In general, the city receives the bulk of its annual rainfall during the summer monsoon months.

The dry season in Varanasi lasts roughly from November to May. Rain is extremely rare during this period. November stands out in particular, which, according to data, is an absolutely dry month with 0 mm of precipitation and no rainy days. January, February, April, and December are also characterized by minimal precipitation (0 mm) and only a few days when minor rainfall is possible (from 1 to 4 days). Even in March and May, only about 1 mm of precipitation falls, making these months predominantly dry and sunny.

The rainy season, or monsoon, arrives in Varanasi in June, when precipitation increases to 4 mm, and the number of rainy days rises to 12. The peak of the monsoon falls in July and August. July is the wettest month by volume of precipitation (11 mm), with rain falling on average for 23 days. August is slightly lower in precipitation amount (10 mm) but exceeds in frequency – it rains here for about 26 days a month, which is almost daily. September also remains rainy (7 mm of precipitation and 21 rainy days), after which, in October, the intensity of monsoon rains drops sharply (2 mm of precipitation and 5 rainy days), signaling the end of the wet season.

When planning a trip to Varanasi, it is important to choose your wardrobe correctly, taking into account the distinct climatic seasons. generally, for comfortable movement around the city, you will need comfortable closed shoes, as there will be a lot of walking. Given the cultural norms of India, it is recommended to choose clothing that covers shoulders and knees, especially when visiting temples and sacred sites. Light, breathable fabrics made from natural materials, such as cotton or linen, will be your best choice for most of the year.

In the hot season, which lasts roughly from March to May, as well as in June before the active onset of the monsoons, when temperatures can exceed 38°C, be sure to bring light, light-coloured clothing, headwear (a hat or cap), sunglasses, and high SPF sunscreen. From June to September comes the monsoon season, characterized by high humidity and frequent, though not always prolonged, rains (especially in July and August, when the number of rainy days reaches 23-26). During this period, a light raincoat or umbrella will come in handy, as well as quick-drying clothes and shoes that you don't mind getting wet. It may also be worth bringing insect repellent.

From October to February, cooler and drier weather settles in Varanasi, which is considered the most comfortable for travel. During the day the temperature is pleasant, but evenings and nights, especially in December and January (minimum temperatures around 9-11°C), can be quite cool. Therefore, it is recommended to use the layering principle: bring t-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, as well as a light jacket, sweater, or fleece. A scarf or shawl can also be useful not only for warmth but also for visiting religious sites.