Whether you're visiting Tamil Nadu in India during the peak of May (36°C (97°F)) or the cooler months around December (28°C (82°F)), knowing what to pack starts with understanding the local climate. Our overview is based on data from Chennai, the region's most prominent city. For more detailed climate information about other cities in the area, please see the section beneath the map further down the page.
Tamil Nadu, and particularly Chennai, experiences consistently warm weather throughout the year, with average highs always exceeding 28°C (82°F).
May, June and July are generally the hottest months of the year.
When it comes to rainfall, Tamil Nadu sees significant variations throughout the year. November tends to be the wettest, receiving 230 mm (9.1 in) of rain, while February is much drier with just 9 mm (0.4 in). Travelers should note that the rainy season falls during October and November, bringing substantial precipitation ranging from 215 mm (8.5 in) to 230 mm (9.1 in) monthly. For those seeking drier weather, January, February, March and April typically see minimal rainfall, never exceeding 18 mm (0.7 in).
For those seeking sunshine, May usually has the brightest skies, making it an excellent time for exploring the region.