Weather in Islamabad

Planning a trip or just want to know what the weather is like now in Islamabad? In this section, you will find the most up-to-date information on weather conditions, as well as detailed forecasts and visual charts.

The climate in Islamabad is characterised by distinct seasons, offering diverse weather conditions throughout the year. In general, the city experiences hot summers and cool, though not severe, winters. The transitional seasons, spring and autumn, usually delight visitors with mild and pleasant weather.

The summer months, particularly from May to September, are distinguished by high temperatures, peaking in June with an average temperature of around 29.7°C and maximum values up to 36°C. Winter, from December to February, brings coolness: average temperatures fluctuate around 10-13°C, while night-time temperatures can drop to 4-7°C. An important feature of Islamabad's climate is the summer monsoon period, which is most pronounced in July and August. These months see a significant increase in precipitation (up to 6 mm) and the number of rainy days (20-22 days), bringing refreshing moisture after hot and dry periods.

During the rest of the year, especially from October to June, precipitation is minimal, and the weather is predominantly dry and sunny. Spring (March-April) and autumn (October-November) are considered comfortable seasons for visiting, when the air temperature is moderate and rainfall is low.

The climate in Islamabad is characterised by significant annual temperature fluctuations, offering diverse weather conditions throughout the year. The hottest month is usually June, when the average temperature is 29.7°C, and maximum daytime values can reach 36.0°C. July and August are also very warm, with average temperatures of 29.0°C and 28.1°C respectively. On the other hand, the coldest month is January, when the average temperature drops to 9.9°C, and night-time minimums can reach 4.3°C, bringing a chill to the city.

The summer season in Islamabad, which lasts approximately from May to September, is noted for high temperatures. In May, the average temperature is 26.1°C, gradually rising towards the June peak. During this period, the daytime heat can be quite intense. July and August, while remaining hot, bring the highest amount of precipitation (6 mm on average for each month) and the greatest number of rainy days (22 and 20 days respectively), which can lead to increased humidity. By September, the temperature begins to gradually decrease, averaging 27.1°C, but remains very warm.

The winter months, from December to February, are relatively mild and cool in Islamabad. In December, the average temperature holds at 11.5°C, and in January, the coldest month, it drops to 9.9°C. February brings some warming with an average temperature of 12.7°C. Islamabad is characterised by noticeable diurnal temperature fluctuations throughout the year. For example, in January, the difference between the average maximum (15.5°C) and average minimum (4.3°C) temperature is more than 11°C. Similar variations are observed in other months, which is worth considering when planning outdoor activities, especially in the morning and evening hours.

Islamabad sees a distinct division into wet and dry seasons throughout the year. The bulk of precipitation falls during the summer months, while late autumn and early winter are characterised by significantly less rain. Given the monthly average temperatures, especially the minimums, snowfall in Islamabad is unlikely; precipitation predominantly falls as rain.

The wettest months in Islamabad are July and August. During this period, which coincides with the monsoon season, the highest amount of precipitation falls – an average of 6 mm in each of these months. It rains very frequently at this time: July sees about 22 rainy days, and August approximately 20 days. This indicates a period with frequent, possibly intense showers.

The driest period of the year falls on October, November and December. During these months, precipitation is minimal, amounting to just 1 mm on average for each month. December stands out as the driest month, having on average only 2 rainy days. In other months, such as January-June and September, precipitation is moderate, varying from 2 to 4 mm. For instance, March sees 4 mm of rainfall (about 10 rainy days), and April sees 3 mm (about 11 rainy days), suggesting the possibility of frequent but not overly heavy rains during the spring period.

When planning a trip to Islamabad, it is important to consider seasonal weather changes so that your wardrobe suits the conditions. Winter (December-February) is quite cool here, with average temperatures around 10-13°C, and nights can drop to 4-7°C. Therefore, be sure to bring warm clothes: sweaters, a fleece jacket, a mid-season jacket, as well as a hat and scarf, especially for evening walks. Spring (March-May) and autumn (October-November) are characterised by pleasant warm weather, with average temperatures ranging from 16°C to 26°C. During these periods, layered clothing is ideal: t-shirts, light shirts, cardigans, or light jackets that can be removed or put on depending on the time of day. Don't forget comfortable shoes for walking around the city and its surroundings.

The summer months in Islamabad (June-September) are hot, with the average temperature hovering around 27-30°C, and daytime highs reaching 36°C. At this time, light, breathable clothing made from natural fabrics such as cotton or linen is preferable. July and August are also the monsoon period, when the number of rainy days increases significantly (up to 20-22 days per month), although the total amount of rainfall is moderate. Therefore, a light raincoat or a compact umbrella will be very useful. Regardless of the season, sunscreen and a head covering are important accessories for sun protection, especially in the spring and summer period.

In general, for a comfortable stay in Islamabad, the principle of layering clothes is recommended, which will allow you to easily adapt to temperature changes throughout the day. Comfortable closed-toe shoes will come in handy for sightseeing. Considering the cultural features of Pakistan, women should provide for more modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees, especially when visiting religious sites. A light scarf or shawl may also be useful.