The climate of Varanasi
Varanasi, situated in
India, boasts of a grandeur emitted from its rich history and cultural relevance. A prime example of a Mediterranean, hot summer climate, Varanasi is categorized as a Csa according to the Köppen climate classification. This climatic pattern represents warm to hot dry summers and mild wet winters.
Throughout the year Varanasi experiences a wide range of temperature fluctuations, from a chilly 9.2°C (48.6°F) in
January up to a sweltering 40.3°C (104.5°F) in
May. The rainfall tends to be a mirror image of the temperature observations, seeing the highest rainfall of 309mm (12.17") in
July while the hottest month of May only observes 10mm (0.39"). The number of daylight hours sees a gradual increase from January through to
June, then a gradual decrease towards
December, peaking at 13.7 hours in June and bottoming at 10.6 in December.
A feature unique to Varanasi is the intense monsoon period during the summer months. With rainfall peaking above 100mm (3.94") starting from June, it tops off at an impressive 309mm (12.17") in July, maintaining this high trend until
September. The UV index also reaches high levels primarily from
April to
August with a peak value of 12 seen in May, June and July.
The best time to visit Varanasi
Optimal visiting conditions in
Varanasi would be during the months of
October and
November. With an average high temperature hovering between 32.7°C (90.9°F) and 29.4°C (84.9°F), these months witness comfortable temperatures and minimal rainfall of 32mm (1.26") and 9mm (0.35") respectively. The UV index during this period also resides towards a moderate range of 8, being both safe and pleasant for outdoor exploration. Sun shines longer in these months, providing 8 hours of unrestricted visibility on average, making them also an ideal choice for sightseeing expeditions.
The worst time to visit Varanasi
Tourists might want to avoid the summer months of
May to
September. With temperatures hitting a peak of 40.3°C (104.5°F) in May and accompanied by the heavy monsoon rains from
June to September reaching up to 309mm (12.17"), conditions might not be most conducive for travel during this period. The UV index also reaches critical levels of 12 during these months, indicating potential harm from unprotected sun exposure.
Spring weather in Varanasi
Spring descends upon
Varanasi from
March to
May, where average high temperatures rise steadily from a comfortable 32.6°C (90.7°F) in March to a scorching 40.3°C (104.5°F) in May. Despite the climbing temperatures, rainfall is relatively low during this period, only seeing an increase from 8mm (0.31") to 10mm (0.39"). The UV index shoots up to risky levels of 10 in March and 12 between
April and May, emphasizing the need for sufficient sun protection.
Summer weather in Varanasi
Summer in
Varanasi, unravelling between
June and
August, is characterized by intense rainfall with an average high touching 309mm (12.17") in
July. The temperature, while high averaging around 38.4°C (101.1°F) in June, takes a slight dip down to 32.9°C (91.2°F) in August. Daylight hours during this period remain stable at approximately 13.5 hours, offering ample time for indoor activities.
Autumn weather in Varanasi
Autumn graces
Varanasi between
September and
November with reducing temperatures from 32.8°C (91°F) to a temperate 29.4°C (84.9°F). Though September still holds onto the remnants of the monsoonal influence with 245mm (9.65") of rainfall, by November this reduces significantly to a mere 9mm (0.35"). The UV index progressively falls from 11 in September to a more manageable 6 in November.
Winter weather in Varanasi
Winter in
Varanasi, stretching from
December to
February, is mild with temperatures ranging from a low of 9.2°C (48.6°F) in
January to a high of 26.2°C (79.2°F) in February. Rainfall is, however, at its lowest this season with a slight 5mm (0.2") falling in December. Despite the shorter daylight hours, ranging from 10.6 in December to 11.3 in February, there is plenty of sunshine available, with an average of 7 to 8 hours daily.
Weather in January
In
January, the city of
Varanasi offers an invitingly cool climate. The temperatures begin to rise towards the end of the month, preparing for a warming trend in the months to follow. Rainfall is minimal making the days quite dry.
Weather in January »Weather in February
As
Varanasi transitions from winter to spring,
February ushers a slightly warmer trend. The city enjoys clear skies with ample sunshine for a major portion of the day. The rare instances of showers do not disrupt the city's lively atmosphere.
Weather in February »Weather in March
March witnesses an acceleration in the warming trend with mornings and evenings becoming noticeably balmy. The city basks in sunshine for most of the month, highlighting the lively colors of
Varanasi. Rain is a rare event in March, making this period suitable for outdoor explorations! The temperature during this month escalates, recording a high of 32.6°C (90.7°F) and a low of 16.2°C (61.2°F).
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April in
Varanasi is characterized by hot weather as the city heads into the peak of summer. Refreshing early mornings and soft breezes in the evenings provide a welcome respite from the warm day temperatures. Despite the increase in temperature, minimal rainfall and longer daylight hours offer excellent visibility.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May is the warmest month in
Varanasi, with temperatures often climbing to their annual peak. The city is transformed under the summer sun, while the evenings bring a mild relief from the daytime heat. May marks the arrival of monsoon clouds on the horizon, suggesting promises of imminent showers.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June sees the advent of the monsoon season in
Varanasi, bringing cooling showers to the city. These rains offer respite from the heat, providing much-needed relief to citizens and reviving the city's vegetation. This period brings about a unique blend of sun and showers enhancing the city’s beauty.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
In
July, monsoonal rainfall is at its peak, transforming
Varanasi with the regular showers. The rains often lead to cooler days and an overall drop in temperatures. The city's landscape becomes lush and aesthetically pleasing, bringing a fresh and serene atmosphere.
Weather in July »Weather in August
Following
July's high rainfall,
August continues to experience monsoon showers maintaining the city's lush green landscape. Despite the lingering rains, the city's vibrant lifestyle and cultural festivities continue undeterred. Towards the end of August, the frequency of shower decreases, marking the gradual end of the monsoon season.
Weather in August »Weather in September
September witnesses a decrease in rainfall as the monsoon season comes to an end. The city prepares to welcome the incoming autumn, characterized by mild temperatures. The days are marked by a bounty of sunshine and clear skies, making it an excellent month for outdoor activities.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October brings a pleasant change in
Varanasi's weather with mild temperatures and clear skies. This period is perfect for tourists eager to explore the city's cultural wealth without disruptions from rain or extreme heat. Towards the end of October, signs of the impending winter become evident in the cool morning and evening temperatures.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November in
Varanasi is characterized by the onset of the winter season. Temperatures begin to drop, giving rise to cool mornings and nights, while the afternoons remain warm. The chilly air brings an invigorating change, as autumn leaves make way for the winter landscape.
Weather in November » Weather in December
In
December, the winter season is in full swing in
Varanasi. Cold mornings and nights define this month, while the afternoons offer a mild warmth under the winter sun. The skies remain clear, and rainfall is quite scarce, making this period ideal for outdoor activities.
Weather in December » [Resources]