The climate of Dehradun
Dehradun, located in the northern part of
India, is characterized by the Köppen climate classification as a Humid Subtropical climate with dry winters (Cwa). This locally prominent climate signifies a climate marked with high humidity, considerable rainfall and a substantial variation in temperatures.
Throughout the year, temperatures in Dehradun exhibit noticeable fluctuations. High temperatures range from 19.3°C (66.7°F) in
January to a scorching 35.6°C (96.1°F) in
May. Contrastingly, the lowest temperatures follow a similar pattern. They start at a chilly 6°C (42.8°F) in January, rising up to a relatively warm 23°C (73.4°F) in
June.
Relative humidity follows the temperature trends somewhat inversely. It remains around 66% to 72% in the cooler months from January to
April, dropping to 46% in the hot month of May, and then dramatically rising to 85% and 86% in
July and
August respectively.
Rainfall in Dehradun has an uneven distribution across the year. Monsoon months from June to
September see the highest precipitation with 673mm (26.5") and 728mm (28.66") falling in July and August respectively. The driest months are
November and
December, with rainfall measures as low as 9mm (0.35") and 24mm (0.94") respectively.
Interestingly, there are considerable fluctuations in daylight hours as well. The longest daylight extends to 14.1 hours in June while the shortest sees 10.2 hours in December.
The best time to visit Dehradun
Taking into account that the perfect time to visit any place depends largely on prevailing temperatures, humidity and rainfall, the ideal time to visit
Dehradun seems to be from
October to
April. During these months, temperatures remain comfortable, ranging from 6°C (42.8°F) to 32.1°C (89.8°F) and rainfall is quite low, making outdoor activities and sightseeing more enjoyable. Particularly,
November offers the best conditions as it is the driest month with only 9mm (0.35") of rainfall.
The worst time to visit Dehradun
The least preferable time to visit
Dehradun could be deemed to be during the monsoon months of
June to
September when the city experiences the highest rainfall and humidity. In these months, rainfall may measure from 202mm (7.95") to 728mm (28.66") and humidity soars to 81% to 86%.
Spring weather in Dehradun
In
Dehradun, spring unfolds between
March and
April. During this time, temperatures are comfortably mild, ascending from 12°C (53.6°F) to 16.7°C (62.1°F), while high temperatures can reach up to 26.4°C (79.5°F) to 32.1°C (89.8°F). Rainfall is comparatively lower in this season, averaging 49mm (1.93") to 23mm (0.91") which enhances the natural beauty of the region.
Summer weather in Dehradun
Summer extends from
May to
June, during which
Dehradun experiences the hottest months of the year. Temperatures can climb up to 35.6°C (96.1°F) in May and nights remain warm at 23°C (73.4°F). Despite the heat, rainfall in June snaps at 202mm (7.95") and provides some respite.
Autumn weather in Dehradun
Autumn in
Dehradun is from
October through
November. The temperatures progressively decrease from 28.5°C (83.3°F) to 25°C (77°F) during this period. Low temperatures also dip from 15.7°C (60.3°F) to 10.4°C (50.7°F). Rainfall decreases dramatically in these months, paving the way for the drier months that follow.
Winter weather in Dehradun
Winter in
Dehradun is from
December to
February. During this time, temperatures drop to 21.1°C (70°F) in February, with low temperatures hitting a chilly 6°C (42.8°F) in
January. Relative humidity stays in the moderate range from 68% to 72%, and rainfall is minimal touching 55mm (2.17") in December and 59mm (2.32") in February.
Weather in January
January welcomes the year with relatively cooler temperatures, starting off the vibrant
Dehradun weather quite dramatically. The highest temperature this month generally touches 19.3°C (66.7°F) while the lowest barely drops to 6°C (42.8°F).
Weather in January » Weather in February
February in
Dehradun brings a subtle increase in temperature, signalling the onset of spring. As the mercury levels rise, compared to
January, the lush greenery across the city seems to spring back to life. The city experiences relatively less humidity, making sightseeing and outdoor activities more enjoyable.
Weather in February » Weather in March
March indicates the arrival of spring in
Dehradun, with landscapes boasting lively hues. The warm temperature gradient of 7.8°C (46°F) up to 26.4°C (79.5°F) encourages a rejuvenated spirit in the city dwellers. The weather displays a significant decrease in rainy days as compared to the month of
February.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April brings mild and comfortable weather, making it one of the best months to visit
Dehradun. This month sees temperatures rise considerably compared to
March, bringing a delightful warmth. Sightseeing and forest walks take precedence amongst tourists and residents due to the sun's extended stay with daylight hours reaching up to 12.9.
Weather in April » Weather in May
The transition into full-fledged summer is seen in
May, with temperatures reaching their annual highs, especially at 35.6°C (96.1°F). This sharp increase in temperature from
April calls for lightweight clothes and plenty of hydration.
Weather in May »Weather in June
June continues the warm trend set by
May, but with added moisture as the region gradually steers into the monsoon season. The nights remain warmer than previous months, but still comfortable enough for a good night's sleep. Despite the escalating temperatures, the longer daylight hours of June offer ample time for sightseeing and relaxation.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July marks the commencement of monsoons in
Dehradun, with record rainfall reaching up to 673mm (26.5"). The lush greenery in and around the city revel in the abundant showers, adding another layer of charm to Dehradun. However, the downpour also results in an increase in the humidity, making the atmosphere slightly muggy.
Weather in July » Weather in August
The monsoon continues its reign over
Dehradun in
August with the rainfall hitting its annual peak. The city's temperature becomes more stable compared to
July, rendering an unpredictable yet intriguing climate. The humidity remains on the higher side, but the city manages to keep its cool thanks to the surrounding mountains.
Weather in August »Weather in September
September brings a sigh of relief as the monsoon begins to fade and the city reverts to a less rainy period. Weather patterns gradually lean back towards the warm and dry, similar to pre-monsoon months. The lingering humidity from the extensive monsoon period in
August gradually decreases, bringing an end to damp days.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October in
Dehradun marks the onset of autumn, characterized by its warm days and cool nights. A significant drop in temperatures, from those seen in
September, gives rise to a need for light woolen clothing during the later part of the day.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November brings a noticeable change as
Dehradun begins to experience the chill of the approaching winter season. The pleasant weather from
October paves the way for colder days and even colder nights. The drop in temperature, however, does not dampen the spirit of the city as the festive season is in full swing.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December turns
Dehradun into a winter wonderland with temperatures dropping as low as 6.8°C (44.2°F). Compared to
November, the chilly days and colder nights are characteristic of the Dehradun winter season. The clear skies with cold winds bring along the best of both worlds - the dazzling sunshine of the day and starlit nights.
Weather in December » [Resources]