The climate of Kodaikanal
Kodaikanal,
India boasts a climatic condition that falls under the Tropical wet and dry or savanna, according to Köppen climate classification. It geographically finds its address in the southern part of India, with weather heavily influenced by monsoons. Throughout the year, the weather in Kodaikanal has a mix of warm temperatures, rainfall, and sunshine, with noticeable variations.
A careful inference from the yearly climate data shows that Kodaikanal experiences a high temperature range from 27.2°C (81°F) to 34.8°C (94.6°F). While the lowest temperature for the year dips to 16.3°C (61.3°F), the highest climbs to a still comfortable 34.8°C (94.6°F), especially when compared to many parts of India. There is a fairly consistent humidity level throughout the year, varying between 55% to 78%.
Rainfall distribution across the year also marks the climate of Kodaikanal. While the least amount of rainfall is recorded in
February at 12mm (0.47"), this figure significantly increases to 216mm (8.5") in
October. Similarly, the number of rainfall days fluctuates, reaching a peak of 23.9 days in October, while hitting a low of 5 days in
January.
Winds in Kodaikanal are relatively moderate, with the highest average wind speed pegged at 13.6km/h (8.5mph). Visibility stands at a constant 10km (6.2mi) for most months of the year, save for
December, January, and
November where it drops to 9km (5.6mi). Kodaikanal also maintains impressive daylight hours, ranging from 11.5 hours in December to 12.7 hours from
May to
July.
The Best Time to Visit Kodaikanal
Visitors to
Kodaikanal will typically find the period between the months of
March and
June ideal. The temperatures during these months are on the warmer side, ranging from 30.4°C (86.7°F) to 34.8°C (94.6°F) - perfect conditions for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Rainfall is also relatively moderate during this period, ensuring outdoor activities aren't hampered.
The Worst Time to Visit Kodaikanal
The months of
October and
November might be a challenging period for travelers, with increased rainfall days and a higher chance of disruptions to outdoor plans. Rainfall in October spikes to 216mm (8.5") over almost 24 days, which translates to gloomy weather that might put a damper on those holiday vibes.
Spring Weather in Kodaikanal
Kodaikanal's spring, lasting from
March to
May, brings warm temperatures, decent daylight hours, and manageable levels of rainfall. Temperatures hover within the bounds of 30.4°C (86.7°F) to 34.8°C (94.6°F). Around this time, the city experiences a relative dip in humidity, with percentage levels dropping down to 55%. This, paired with minimum rainfall and decent sunlight hours, makes spring a delightful period to experience Kodaikanal.
Summer Weather in Kodaikanal
The summer in
Kodaikanal, which runs from
June through
August, comes with its offerings of warmer temperatures and increased rainfall. This period witnesses temperatures soaring to a peak of 31.8°C (89.2°F) in
July, along with a significant increase in rainfall - up to 79mm (3.11") in August.
Autumn Weather in Kodaikanal
Autumn in
Kodaikanal, spanning between
September to
November, brings an uptick in the number of rainy days, coupled with a slide in temperature. Rainfall measures up to 216mm (8.5") in
October, with the number of rainfall days shooting up to 23.9. November ushers in a gradual cooling of temperature, signaling the start of the chilly winter.
Winter Weather in Kodaikanal
Winter descends on
Kodaikanal in
December and lasts till
February. The relatively lower temperatures, which falls between 27.2°C (81°F) to 28.1°C (82.6°F), are accompanied by a decrease in the number of daylight hours. While rainfall doesn't completely slow down, it is relatively less when contrasted with the downpours of the autumn months. The winter cold, though mellow, is an experience to relish in Kodaikanal.
Weather in January
Kodaikanal in
January experiences mild temperatures, which is a relief from the harsh winter weather that envelopes most parts of the country. Pleasant days followed by cool nights make it ideal for sightseeing and other outdoor activities.
Weather in January » Weather in February
February in
Kodaikanal brings slight increments in temperature, leading to even warmer days. The rain also shows a mild uptick, without causing much disruption to daily activities. Compared to
January, there is slightly less cloud cover, promoting clearer skies and better visibility.
Weather in February » Weather in March
The arrival of
March sees a substantial rise in
Kodaikanal's temperature, signaling the onset of summer. There is also a noticeable increase in the amount of rainfall, although this does not affect daily life significantly. There is more sunshine and the weather continues to be predominantly warm.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April in
Kodaikanal witnesses another surge in temperature, making the days hotter. Despite the heat, the increase in rainfall brings an occasional respite. The increase in temperature does not deter tourists, as Kodaikanal continues to be a summer retreat for many.
Weather in April » Weather in May
The peak of summer in
Kodaikanal can be felt in
May, with temperatures soaring even further. However, the presence of natural lakes and water bodies helps moderate the heat. There is a significant increase in the number of daylight hours, making the days longer.
Weather in May »Weather in June
June marks the advent of monsoon in
Kodaikanal, resulting in a decrease in temperature. Despite the onset of rains, the city continues to attract tourists with its scenic beauty and pleasant climate. The drop in temperature is accompanied by a rise in the levels of relative humidity.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
In
July,
Kodaikanal experiences a further dip in temperature, making the weather cooler. Despite being in the monsoon season, daily activities are not much affected as the city receives light to moderate showers. While the rains make the surroundings look greener and more enchanting, the reduction in temperature ensures that travel and exploration remain comfortable.
Weather in July »Weather in August
August ushers a slight cooling trend in
Kodaikanal's weather, with a small dip in temperature. The rainfall shows an increase this month, making the ambiance more charming and full of life. The city becomes a nature lover's paradise due to the freshness brought about by rains.
Weather in August » Weather in September
The showers slow down by
September, bringing a decrease in rainfall in
Kodaikanal. The temperature remains a bit on the cooler side, making the weather quite pleasant. There is more sunlight during this month, illuminating Kodaikanal's beauty even more.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October marks the onset of autumn in
Kodaikanal. Despite slight increments in temperature compared to the previous month, the overall ambiance continues to be balmy. The rains subside significantly, bringing down the humidity levels to a comfort zone.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November witnesses a decrease in temperature. Still, the warmth of the sun during the day time makes it perfect for outings and exploratory trips around the city. The rainfall drops significantly in November in comparison to
October making the weather more conducive for tourists.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December is a month of cool weather in
Kodaikanal. The days are pleasant while the nights can get quite nippy. The wind speed averages around 6.6km/h (4.1mph), bringing a pleasant breeze to the city. The beautiful weather of Kodaikanal in December is characterized by a higher pressure of 1011.6 mb, inducing a calm environment.
Weather in December »