Climate and monthly weather forecastKolkata, India

The climate of Kolkata

Kolkata, India, witnesses a climate classification, known as Tropical wet and dry or savannah, according to the Köppen climate classification. Geographically nestled at the eastern corridor of India, Kolkata experiences a wide degree of variations in weather parameters throughout the year.

The high temperatures recorded for each month fluctuate between the range of 26.4°C (79.5°F) during the cooler January, escalating to a scorching 35.4°C (95.7°F) climb in the torrid May. Correspondingly, the record of low temperatures varies from a chilly 13.8°C (56.8°F) in January to an uncomfortable 26.5°C (79.7°F) in June. The level of relative humidity is set in motion with 58% in March and April, and it peaks to a moist 83% by July and August. The city undergoes significant changes in rainfall ranging from a mild 11mm (0.43") in January to a deluge at 411mm (16.18") during July. Sunshine hours are reasonably constant with the shortest duration of daylight at 10.8 hours in December, while the most extended is 13.5 hours in June.

An analysis of climate information conveys that Kolkata's weather conditions are marked by extremes in rainfall distribution and temperature variations. January is noted for having the lowest rainfall, humidity, and temperature, making it a comfortable period for inhabitants and tourists. In gapingly stark contrast, July stands out as the month with the maximum rainfall and relative humidity coupled with high temperatures, presenting a challenging time for the city.

The best time to visit Kolkata

Of particular interest to tourists planning their optimal visit to Kolkata is the period from November to February. The weather during these four months is reasonably cool, with the high temperature ranging from 30.3°C (86.5°F) to 27°C (80.6°F), and the low temperature lies between 19.6°C (67.3°F) to 14.5°C (58.1°F). Rainfall is at its least with values dropping from 26mm (1.02") in November to as low as 17mm (0.67") in December. Relative humidity decreases from 67% in November to 68% in December, ensuring comfortable touring conditions.

The worst time to visit Kolkata

It would be considerably inconvenient for tourists to plan their trip to Kolkata between the months of June and September. The city seems to be in the throes of the rainy season with a mammoth rise in rainfall from 142mm (5.59") in May to a severe 411mm (16.18") in July. Relative humidity escalates from 70% in May to peak at 83% during July and August. The high temperatures take a nose dive from 35.4°C (95.7°F) in May to 32.1°C (89.8°F) in August, whereas the low temperatures range from 26°C (78.8°F) in May to 26.1°C (79°F) in June and August, influencing the discomfort levels.

Spring weather in Kolkata

In Kolkata, the spring season encompasses March and April. The city experiences a gradual rise in high temperatures from 33.5°C (92.3°F) in March to 35.3°C (95.5°F) in April. Correspondingly, low temperatures also climb from 21.7°C (71.1°F) to 25.1°C (77.2°F). While the daylight duration remains relatively constant between 12 hours in March to 12.7 hours in April, rainfall displays a steady increase from 35mm (1.38") in March to 60mm (2.36") in April.

Summer weather in Kolkata

Kolkata displays its blistering and humid summer personality in the months of May, June, and July. The high temperatures consistently revolve around 35°C (95°F), with relative humidity marking a considerable hike from 70% in May to 83% in July. June and July are the months showing the highest rainfall of the year with 288mm (11.34") and 411mm (16.18"), respectively.

Autumn weather in Kolkata

The Autumn months of August, September, and October bring some respite to Kolkata. While August sees a continuation of high temperatures from 32.1°C (89.8°F), there is a steady drop to 32.3°C (90.1°F) in September and 30.3°C (86.5°F) in October. Rainfall sees a significant dip from 349mm (13.74") in August to 26mm (1.02") by October. Relative humidity also follows a reducing trend from 83% in August to 67% in October.

Winter weather in Kolkata

The arrival of winter in Kolkata is marked by November and December. The city registers a steep drop in high temperatures from 30.3°C (86.5°F) in November to 27°C (80.6°F) in December. The low temperatures correspondingly fall from 19.6°C (67.3°F) to 14.5°C (58.1°F). These months are the driest of the year with rainfall levels dropping to 26mm (1.02") in November and 17mm (0.67") in December. Even though the daylight hours progressively diminish from 11.1 hours in November to 10.8 hours in December, Kolkata remains a popular destination due to its pleasant winter climate.

Weather in January

In January, Kolkata witnesses a mild climate compared to the chilling winters of most Indian cities. With a slight nip in the air, it is an optimal time for sightseeing and outdoor activities, even as other cities are in the grip of extreme cold. Weather in January »

Weather in February

As the month of February commences, Kolkata starts bidding farewell to winter chill. Temperatures gradually rise, making the weather more enjoyable and comfortable for residents and visitors alike, and marking an end to the need for warm clothing. Weather in February »

Weather in March

The start of the summer season in Kolkata can be witnessed in the month of March, resulting in conspicuously warm temperatures. Despite the rising temperature, humidity levels stay relatively similar to previous months. As this month is devoid of major festivals, city life continues at a regular pace. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April sees Kolkata fully gripped by the summer season with marked high temperatures coupled with increasing humidity. Significantly, this time is known for the abrupt storms known locally as "kalbaisakhi", a prominent feature in Kolkata's weather pattern. Weather in April »

Weather in May

May in Kolkata continues the trend of high temperatures and heightened levels of humidity. Despite the increasing discomfort due to the escalating heat, food lovers can relish the arrival of "mango season", making May an ideal time for mango tasting tours. Weather in May »

Weather in June

In June, Kolkata starts experiencing monsoon showers, with the city's landscape transforming into a lush green canvas. Unpredictable spells of rain and markedly increased humidity levels mark this period. Generally, the city comes alive in the monsoon with local markets flooded with an assortment of fruits and flowers. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July is characterized by consistent monsoon downpours in Kolkata, leading to a decrease in the city's overall temperature. The cityscape is dominated by rain-washed greenery and cloudy skies. The monsoon romance of the city is an experience in itself, despite the hindrances posed by heavy showers. Weather in July »

Weather in August

August continues the monsoon trend with high humidity and consistent rainfall. The month is also marked by local festivals adding vibrant colors to the cityscape despite the dull weather. Kolkata's colonial architecture coupled with the grey monsoon skies makes for stunning visuals. Weather in August »

Weather in September

September marks the end of monsoon with a gradual decrease in the frequency of rains. Humidity remains high creating a somewhat uncomfortable atmosphere. However, festive preparations for the upcoming 'Durga Puja', the city's largest festival, are at its peak during September. Weather in September »

Weather in October

The arrival of October signals the post-monsoon period in Kolkata, accompanied by a significant drop in rainfall levels. The biggest festival, 'Durga Puja,' engulfs the city in a carnival-like atmosphere, despite the slight discomfort caused by high humidity. Weather in October »

Weather in November

In November, Kolkata transitions into winter with cooler nights and comfortable days. The weather is quite pleasant and is marked by lower humidity and mildly warm days, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Nightlife in Kolkata is at its peak, with several music and cultural festivals lined up for this month. Weather in November »

Weather in December

December brings with it the definitive onset of winter in Kolkata, with cool yet comfortable temperatures defining the city's weather. Christmas festivities add a cheerful vibe to the city's atmosphere, making it an ideal month for holiday makers. Weather in December »