When to Visit Kolkata
Climate guide & best times to travel
Best Time to Visit
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Year-Round Essentials
Spring (Mar-May)
Summer/Monsoon (Jun-Aug)
Autumn (Sep-Nov)
Winter (Dec-Feb)
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Month-by-Month Guide
January
This is Kolkata at its absolute best—warm days around 25°C (77°F) and genuinely cool evenings that might actually require a light sweater. The humidity is still present but far more manageable than other months. It's peak tourist season for good reason, with clear skies and comfortable conditions for exploring the city's sprawling markets and colonial architecture.
February
The weather starts warming up noticeably, with highs reaching 29°C (84°F), though it's still quite pleasant by Kolkata standards. Mornings and evenings remain comfortable, and you'll still get those cooler nights. This is the tail end of the prime season before the heat really kicks in, making it a sweet spot for visitors who want decent weather with slightly fewer crowds than January.
March
Summer announces itself pretty clearly in March, with temperatures jumping to 33°C (92°F) and the humidity starting to feel more oppressive. The pleasant winter weather is definitely behind you now. That said, it's still manageable if you plan outdoor activities for early morning or late evening, and the city hasn't quite hit its peak heat yet.
April
This is when Kolkata gets genuinely hot—35°C (95°F) highs combined with that persistent 70% humidity create the kind of conditions where you'll be seeking out air conditioning regularly. The occasional pre-monsoon thunderstorm (known locally as Kal Baisakhi) might provide brief relief, bringing dramatic winds and sudden downpours. Not the most comfortable month for sightseeing, honestly.
May
May is typically the hottest month before the monsoon arrives, with temperatures holding steady at 35°C (95°F) and humidity that makes everything feel heavier. The city slows down noticeably during the afternoon heat, and locals tend to stay indoors during peak hours. You might catch some pre-monsoon showers toward the end of the month, which everyone welcomes as a preview of cooler weather to come.
June
The monsoon typically arrives in June, bringing temperatures down slightly to 34°C (93°F) and, more importantly, substantial rainfall that the data here doesn't quite capture. The rains provide welcome relief from the pre-monsoon heat, though they can be heavy and unpredictable. The city takes on a different character—greener, muddier, and with a certain atmospheric quality that some travelers actually enjoy.
July
The monsoon is in full swing, with temperatures moderating to 32°C (90°F) but humidity remaining high. Expect frequent, heavy downpours that can flood streets and disrupt transportation—this is when Kolkata's infrastructure really shows its age. That said, there's something compelling about the city during monsoon, with the rain bringing cooler evenings and a certain romantic quality to the old neighborhoods.
August
Similar to July, with monsoon rains continuing and temperatures staying around 32°C (90°F). The persistent wetness means mold and dampness become part of daily life, and you'll want to keep electronics and important documents well-protected. The upside is that the city's parks and the Maidan are lush and green, and produce markets overflow with seasonal vegetables and fruits.
September
The monsoon starts tapering off, though you'll still get regular rainfall and temperatures remain steady at 32°C (90°F). The humidity stays high, making it feel warmer than the thermometer suggests. This is still firmly off-season for tourism, which means better deals on accommodation and fewer crowds at major attractions, though you'll need to be flexible with your plans around the weather.
October
October marks the transition to Kolkata's pleasant season, with temperatures still at 32°C (90°F) but rainfall decreasing significantly. This is Durga Puja season—the city's biggest festival—when Kolkata transforms with elaborate pandals and celebrations. The weather cooperates nicely, though you'll find the city absolutely packed with visitors and locals celebrating, so book accommodation well in advance.
November
This is when Kolkata's weather becomes genuinely lovely again, with temperatures dropping to 30°C (86°F) and humidity becoming more bearable. The post-monsoon freshness lingers, skies are generally clear, and the oppressive heat is finally behind you. It's an excellent time to visit, with comfortable conditions for exploring and the festive season continuing with Kali Puja and Diwali.
December
Peak comfort returns with highs around 27°C (80°F) and cool evenings that might dip to 15°C (59°F). This is when you'll see locals actually wearing sweaters and jackets, which might seem amusing if you're from a colder climate. The pleasant weather makes it ideal for everything from heritage walks through North Kolkata to boat rides on the Hooghly River, and the city's cultural calendar is packed with concerts and events.