Kolkata Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Kolkata is subject to a tropical wet-and-dry climate. Summer months are hot and humid and May is generally the hottest month. Heavy rain and hailstorms can occur at the beginning of summer. Winter is mild and lasts only two months.
The monsoon season runs from June through September. Most rain falls in the city during this period. Due to the huge density of the city, it also suffers from a huge smog problem. The best time of year to visit Kolkata is from November until March.
Monthly Temperature in Kolkata
In Kolkata, seasonal changes bring about a moderate variation in temperatures. Average maximum daytime temperatures range from a very hot 37°C (99°F) in April, the warmest time of the year, to a comfortable 27°C (81°F) during cooler months like January.
At night, you can expect temperatures ranging from 28°C (82°F) in April to around 14°C (57°F) during January.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Kolkata
Kolkata is known for its substantial rainfall, with annual precipitation reaching 1675 mm (66 in). Significant seasonal changes in precipitation occur throughout the year. In the wettest month, July it receives heavy rainfall, averaging 354 mm (14 in) of precipitation, recorded across 15 rainy days. In contrast, the driest month December brings less rainfall, with 10 mm (0.4 in) over 0 rainy days. For more details, please visit our Kolkata Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine Hours in Kolkata
Seasonal changes in sunshine hours are quite dramatic in Kolkata. While April receives considerable daily sunshine with up to 8.0 hours, July marks the darkest time of the year, where sunshine is scarce with only 3.5 hours of sunlight per day.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Water Temperature in Kolkata
The mean water temperature over the year ranges from 24°C (75°F) in January to 29°C (84°F) in June.
Water temperature over the year
Humidity in Kolkata by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Kolkata.
The city experiences its highest humidity in July, reaching 83%. In March, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 51%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Wind Speed in Kolkata
The average wind speed over the year ranges from () to 2 m/s (4 knots). It is lower in January, October, November and December and higher in April and May. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Kolkata 3-Day Forecast
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
Best Time to Visit Kolkata
In general, temperatures in Kolkata range from 27°C (81°F) to 37°C (99°F) across the year, with January, February, March, April, November and December being the best time to visit for those who prefer drier weather.Make your experience more enjoyable by planning to be outside during the cooler parts of the day, either early morning or as the sun begins to set. Visitors should note that June, July, August and September are part of the rainy season, bringing substantial rainfall. Need help choosing your next travel destination? We offer a specialized tool that matches you with locations based on your weather preferences. Explore destinations that suit your climate preferences.
