Kolkata Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Kolkata.

Climate overview of Kolkata

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.

Kolkata Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Kolkata — and find the best time to visit.

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

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

Data from: Calcutta, India (12 KM, 7 Miles).

Daily hours of sunshine

Data from: Calcutta, India (12 KM, 7 Miles).

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

Data from: Calcutta, India (12 KM, 7 Miles).

Humidity in Kolkata by Month

Wind Speed in Kolkata

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.

Frequently asked questions about the climate in Kolkata

What is the best time to visit Kolkata?

January and December typically offer the most optimal weather in Kolkata. In contrast, March, April, May, June, July, August, September and October tend to have less optimal conditions. Kolkata has distinct dry (November to March) and wet (June to September) seasons.

What temperatures can I expect in Kolkata?

Daytime highs range from 27°C (81°F) in January to 37°C (99°F) in April. Nighttime lows range from 14°C (57°F) to 28°C (82°F).

How much rain does Kolkata get?

Annual rainfall is around 1675 mm (66 in). July is the wettest month with 354 mm (14 in), while December is the driest with 10 mm (0.4 in).

How sunny is Kolkata?

Kolkata receives around 2,222 hours of sunshine per year. April is the sunniest month with 241 hours, while July is the cloudiest with just 106 hours. Overall, Kolkata enjoys abundant sunshine.

Kolkata 3-Day Forecast

Kolkata 3-Day Forecast

Kolkata on the map

Kolkata is highlighted — select any city to see its climate.

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