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Best Time To Visit Chennai

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What is the best time to visit Chennai?

October to February during the winters and the pre-monsoons season is the best time to visit Chennai. This time of the year is considered as the best time to explore the metropolitan city as summers are scorching and monsoons bring torrential downpours and cyclones. Its geographical location on the beautiful coastline mostly keeps the city's weather hot and humid. 

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Tamil nadu temple tour package, pondicherry-mahabalipuram tour with kanchipuram, 4 nights bangkok & pattaya full board package (ex chennai), ooty group package from chennai, ooty group tour package from chennai, more about best time to travel to chennai, chennai in winters (november - february).

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The Best Time to Visit Chennai, India for Weather, Safety, & Tourism

The best times to visit Chennai for ideal weather are

October 29th to March 18th

based on average temperature and humidity from NOAA (the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). Read below for more weather and travel details.

Chennai Travel Guide

Temperature.

• Perceived Temperature
• Rain and snow
• Humidity and wind
• The busiest and least popular months
• Overall travel experience by time of year

Other Chennai Travel Info

Weather in chennai.

Average temperatures in Chennai vary greatly. Considering humidity, temperatures feel hot for about half of the year and otherwise nice with a low chance of precipitation most of the year. The area is somewhat temperate — in the 43rd percentile for pleasant weather — compared to tourist destinations worldwide. Weeks with ideal weather are listed above . If you’re looking for the very warmest time to visit Chennai, the hottest months are May, June, and then April. See average monthly temperatures below. The warmest time of year is generally late May where highs are regularly around 108.6°F (42.6°C) with temperatures rarely dropping below 82.2°F (27.9°C) at night.

Chennai Temperatures (Fahrenheit)

Chennai temperatures (celsius), “feels-like” temperatures.

The way we experience weather isn’t all about temperature. Higher temperatures affect us much more at higher humidity, and colder temperatures feel piercing with high winds. Our perceived temperatures factor in humidity and wind chill to better represent how hot or cold the day feels to a person.

Chennai Perceived Temperature (F)

Chennai perceived temperature (c), average chennai temperatures by month.

Daily highs (averaged for the month) usually give the best indication of the weather. A significantly lower mean and low generally just means it gets colder at night.

Show Fahrenheit

Show celsius, precipitation (rain or snow).

If dry weather is what you’re after, the months with the lowest chance of significant precipitation in Chennai are December, January, and then November. Note that we define “significant precipitation” as .1 inches or more in this section. The lowest chance of rain or snow occurs around early January. For example, on the week of January 1st there are no days of precipitation on average. By contrast, it’s most likely to rain or snow in early to mid August with an average of 4 days of significant precipitation the week of August 6th.

Chance of Precipitation

The graph below shows the % chance of rainy and snowy days in Chennai.

Snow on the Ground

The graph below shows the average snow on the ground in Chennai (in).

Average Rain and Snow by Month

Show inches, show centimeters, humidity and wind.

Chennai has some very humid months, with some very dry months. The least humid month is April (18.9% relative humidity), and the most humid month is August (77.1%).

Wind in Chennai is usually calm . The windiest month is June, followed by May and July. June’s average wind speed of around 6.9 knots (7.9 MPH or 12.8 KPH) is considered “a light breeze.” Maximum sustained winds (the highest speed for the day lasting more than a few moments) are at their highest in late May where average top sustained speeds reach 14.9 knots, which is considered a moderate breeze.

Relative Humidity (%)

The graph below shows the average % humidity by month in Chennai.

The graph below shows wind speed (max and average) in knots.

Average Wind Speeds

Show wind speeds.

All wind speeds are in knots. 1 knot = 1.15 MPH or 1.85 KPH.

Show Relative Humidity by Month

Is it safe to travel to chennai.

Our best data indicates this area is somewhat safe, but with extra warnings in a few regions. As of Dec 04, 2023 there are travel warnings and regional advisories for India; exercise a high degree of caution and avoid some areas. Check this page for any recent changes or regions to avoid: Travel Advice and Advisories . This advisory was last updated on Dec 01, 2023.

The Busiest and Least Crowded Months

The busiest month for tourism in Chennai, India is December, followed by August and November. Prices for hotels and flights will be most expensive during these months, though you can save if you purchase well in advance. Tourists are unlikely to visit Chennai in April. Those willing to visit at these times will likely find it the least expensive month.

Estimated Tourism by Month

Most popular months to visit, overall chennai travel experience by season, spring (march through may).

Humidity and temperatures combine to make this season feel very warm. Highs range from 108.6°F (42.6°C) and 85°F (29.4°C) with warmer temperatures in the later months. Rain is rare with roughly 1 days of significant precipitation per month. Spring is the slowest for tourism, which makes it a good time for those looking for deals.

Summer (June through August)

The middle-year months have hot weather with high temperatures that are quite warm. These months see the most precipitation with 5 to 12 days of precipitation per month. June – August is the second busiest season for tourism in Chennai, so lodging and other accommodations may cost slightly more.

Fall (September through November)

Fall daily highs range from 97.1°F (36.2°C) and 83.4°F (28.6°C), which will feel very nice given the humidity and wind. It rains or snows a normal amount: 1 to 6 days per month. Tourism is fairly slow during these months due to the weather, so hotels may be lower priced.

Winter (December through February)

Weather is somewhat cool this time of year in Chennai to be enjoyable for warm weather travelers. The average high during this season is between 85°F (29.4°C) and 71.4°F (21.9°C). On average, it rains or snows a very small amount: 0 to 1 times per month. These times of year are the busiest with tourists.

Best Times to Travel › India › Chennai, India

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The Best Time to Visit Chennai, India

India › Best Time to Visit Chennai Updated: January 13, 2022 By Santorini Dave

• Best Hotels in Chennai
• Where to Stay in Chennai

When is the Best Time to Visit Chennai?

• Chennai Hotel & Neighborhood Map

The best time to visit Chennai is in January, February, and March. These months avoid the extreme heat and bulk of the rain, and temperatures hover between 21°C and 34°C. Since Chennai is not a major tourist destination, airfares and room rates are moderate through the year, except on major holidays like Diwali, Christmas, and New Year’s.

The incredible facade of Arulmigu Kapaleeswarar Temple in Chennai, India. The best time to visit Chennai is January through March.

• Best Time for Sightseeing : Like all cities in southern India, the extreme heat and monsoonal rains may affect travel plans. Unlike Mumbai and Goa, however, most rain in Chennai falls from August to December, peaking in October and November. Chennai is hot and humid all year but is worse between April and July. So, the best time for visiting is limited to January, February, and March.
• Best Time for Weather : During the dry season from January to March, days are full of sunshine, temperatures aren’t too hot (yet), sea breezes help temper the humidity, and it may not rain for weeks. During April, May, and June, temperatures rise from warm to hot and the increased humidity is particularly notable. The monsoon that pummels Mumbai and Goa on the west coast from June to September bypasses Chennai, which receives most of its rain during the northeast monsoonal period of October to mid-December. Violent storms and cyclones are not uncommon at this time, while water-logging may also affect travel plans.
• Best Time for Honeymoons : Mid-December to April. Avoid, if possible, the extreme heat, humidity, and monsoonal rains during the other months of the year.
• Best Time for Nightlife : Between January and June, rain is scarce. Hence, this is the best time for partying and bar-hopping at night, even though nightlife is fairly tame in this Tamil-dominated city.
• Best Time for Saving Money : May to November. The most popular and expensive time to visit is the cooler and drier weather, so hotel rates and airfares are lowest during the monsoon season and its lead up.

Chennai Travel Seasons

• High Season (January to March) : Day after day of warm weather, without being too hot or humid, and pleasantly mild overnight. Maybe 1-2 days of rain per month. Chennai is not a major tourist destination, so it’s not much affected by large numbers of visitors and higher hotel rates around the Christmas and New Year periods.
• Shoulder Season (April and December) : Also a good time to visit, before the high heat and humidity (May and June) and after the worst of the wet season (July to November). April can still be hot and humid, and the rain lingers in early December, but by the end of the year, the streets are clean and gardens are flourishing.
• Low Season (May to November) : Chennai is not blessed with an ideal climate for sightseeing. Heat and humidity peak in May and June in the lead up to the rains, which is at its peak during the northeast monsoon in October, November, and early December, when cyclones are common. The number of tourists reduces, so hotel rates fall, but allow time to get around because travel plans may be affected during the wet season.

Chennai Weather by Month

• Chennai Weather in January : Second coolest month, but average daytime temperatures only drop to 30°C and remain a balmy 21°C overnight. Significant drop in rainfall to about one-fifth as much as December, but still the wettest month of the dry winter.
• Chennai Weather in February : Daytime temperatures rise a little from the previous month and there’s a slight reduction in average rainfall. Overnight temperatures start to increase by 1-2 degrees per month until peaking in May.
• Chennai Weather in March : Days become noticeably hotter, averaging 34°C, and overnight is a warm and humid 24°C. Driest month of the year, with barely any rain recorded.
• Chennai Weather in April : Second-driest month, with only a couple of rainy days on average, but the heat and, especially, humidity, build to an uncomfortable level for those unused to it. Daytime averages of 36°C and 26°C overnight.
• Chennai Weather in May : The worst month for heat and humidity as the amount of rain also increases. Thrice as wet as April – but still not that much – and the highest average daytime and overnight temperatures for the year: 38°C/28°C. Humidity is very uncomfortable, even for locals.
• Chennai Weather in June : Some annoying rain but certainly not the sort of monsoon now flooding the streets of other cities. Still averaging 37°C during the day and 27°C overnight, while the humidity can be unbearable for many visitors.
• Chennai Weather in July : By now, the wet season has started in earnest, alleviated by a slight decrease in temperatures, but the humidity remains very uncomfortable. Water-logging is now common in poorly-drained and low-lying areas.
• Chennai Weather in August : Another drop in average daytime and overnight temperatures, but nothing too noticeable. Slight increase in rainfall, averaging about 132mm per month, which, by now, may disrupt travel plans a little.
• Chennai Weather in September : The rain continues (although slightly less on average than the previous month), but the monsoon has still not arrived. Daytime and overnight temperatures remain fairly uncomfortable at about 34°C and 25°C respectively, exacerbated by the continuing humidity.
• Chennai Weather in October : The first of the 2 wettest months, part of the northeast monsoon that doesn’t affect cities inland or along the west coast. About 270mm of rain on average, and cyclones are not uncommon, so always be alert. Average temperatures reduce a little to 32°C during the day and the humidity decreases a little.
• Chennai Weather in November : Easily the wettest month of the year as the monsoonal rains batter the coast and damaging cyclones pass through every year or so. Expect rain every day, often for hours, flooding the streets, even outside 5-star resorts. About 360mm for the month, but still less than half of what Mumbai receives on the other coast in July.
• Chennai Weather in December : Significant changes starting with average day/night temperatures at their lowest for the year: 29°C/21°C. The rain tapers off in the second half of the month to a total of nearly one-third as much as November. Cyclones are still possible; in fact, a very severe cyclonic storm called Vardah hit Chennai in early December of 2016, causing extensive damage.

Chennai Holidays, Events, and Festivals by Months

India has the world’s second-largest population of Muslims (after Indonesia). Dates for these 4 major festivals change each year according to the Islamic calendar. Each is a public holiday when some government offices and tourist attractions may close.

• Eid-al-Fitr – The end of Ramadan is celebrated with up to 3 days of feasts, music, and dance at mosques and homes.
• Eid Mulid-un-Nabi (Prophet Mohammed’s Birthday) – Celebrated with prayers and parades.
• Muharram/Ashura – Start of the Islamic New Year.
• Eid al-Adha/Zuha (Bakr-Id) – Celebrates Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son. Animals, mostly goats, are slaughtered and shared with families and the poor.

Chennai in January

• New Year’s Day (1st) – Celebrated by families and friends. Usually some concerts.
• Makara Sankranthi/Pongal (14th or 15th) – Makara Sankranthi is celebrated more in Western India, while Pongal is celebrated in South India. Both festivals mark the end of winter. Makara Sankranthi features lots of kite-flying, while Pongal involves 3-4 days of house cleaning and decorating, paying respect to farm animals, exchanging gifts, and visiting families and friends. Sweet rice pudding is consumed during Pongal.
• Vasant Panchami (changeable, January/February) – Hindu ceremony where devotees dressed in yellow place books and instruments in front of Saraswati, the Goddess of Knowledge, for blessing, and to celebrate the coming of spring.
• Republic Day (26th) – Commemorates the adoption of the country’s constitution on January 26, 1950. Huge parades in Delhi, less restrained elsewhere. National holiday, when all government offices and many tourist attractions close.
• Tourism and Trade Fair in Chennai (January, February & March) – Various stalls and events organized by local tourism authorities to promote the attractions and culture across the city and state.

Chennai in February

• (Maha) Shivaratri (changeable, February/March) – Day of fasting as a dedication to Lord Shiva and ceremonies in temples. Public holiday, when some government offices and tourist attractions may close.
• Holi (changeable, February/March) – Vibrant commemoration of the start of spring. Almost everyone – including unsuspecting foreigners – is doused with colored water and/or powder.

Chennai in March

• Chaitra Navratri (changeable, September/October) – The beginning of the new year as per the Hindu calendar. The 9th night is celebrated as Rama Navami.
• Rama Navami (changeable, March/April) – Celebrates Lord Rama’s birth. 9 days of music, dance, fasts, and feasts, and reading of the Ramayana (epic). One day is a public holiday when most government offices and some tourist attractions may close.
• Mahavir Jayanti (changeable, March/April) – Celebrates the birth of Lord Mahavir, the most revered teacher of Jainism. Colorful festivities in temples and offerings to the poor. Public holiday, when some government offices and tourist attractions may close.
• Easter (changeable, March/April) – Celebrated by the Christian minority. A few businesses may close on Good Friday.
• Gudi Padwa (changeable, March/April) – Traditional start of the Hindu New Year, marked by family visits, flying of a special flag, and spring-cleaning.

Chennai in April

• Vaisakhi (usually 13th or 14th) – Another festival related to the onset of spring, as well as the start of the New Year according to the Sikh calendar. Abundant music, dance, wrestling, and the wearing of traditional costumes.
• Ambedkar Jayanti/Bhim Jayanti (14th) – Celebrates the birth of late Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar, a leading historical figure. Public holiday, when some government offices and tourist attractions may close.

Chennai in May

• Vesak/Buddha Purnima (changeable, April/May) – Solemn festivals at temples marking the birth and death of Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. Public holiday, when some government offices and tourist attractions may close.

Chennai in June

• Nothing notable, and the weather across this part of India precludes outdoor events.

Chennai in July

• Raksha Bandhan/Rakhi (changeable, July/August) – Hindu festival marking the importance of families, especially siblings. Commonly called Brother and Sister Day, where sisters tie colorful strings (Rakhis) on their brothers’ hands, and brothers give gifts in return.

Chennai in August

• Independence Day (15th) – Celebrates India’s independence from Britain in 1947. Patriotic time, with government buildings suitably decorated and ceremonies held, especially in Delhi. Also, a time for families to get together. National public holiday when all government offices and many tourist attractions close.
• Parsi New Year (17th) – Celebrated by Parsis who follow the ancient religion of Zoroastrianism. Chennai’s Royapuram fire temple is 110 years old.
• Madras Day (22nd) – Part of a week-long celebration of the city’s foundation in the mid-17th century. Concerts, food markets, and other events all over the city.
• Janmashtami (changeable, August/September) – Celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna with offerings, fasting, and decorations on buildings. Public holiday, when some government offices and tourist attractions may close.
• Ganesh Chaturthi (changeable, August/September) – Up to 10 days of celebrations for the birth of the highly-revered elephant-headed God, Ganesha. Celebrated with fervor across the city and state.

Chennai in September

• Navaratri (changeable, September/October) – Nine days of passionately celebrating the battle of Goddess Durga over a demon. Lights and fireworks all over the city, as well as colorful parades and cultural events. The 9th day is Dussehra.
• Dussehra (changeable, September/October) – Celebrates the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana, and the general battle of good over evil. Praying at temples, offerings of special food, and burning of Ravana’s effigies. Public holiday, when some government offices and tourist attractions may close.

Chennai in October

• Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti (2nd) – Sombre occasion commemorating the birthday of the country’s founding father, Mahatma Gandhi. National holiday, when all government offices and many tourist attractions close.
• Karaka Chaturthi/Karva Chauth (changeable, October/November) – Venerating Lord Shiva and the Goddess Parvati, it’s a social occasion for families and friends. Also, fasting and other special ceremonies among married women to wish for long and healthy lives for their husbands.
• Diwali/Deepavali (changeable, October/November) – Major 5-day festival of lights, candles, and fireworks. Busy time for travel because it’s celebrated by Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Sikhs. One day is a public holiday when some government offices and tourist attractions may close.

Chennai in November

• Karthigai Deepam (changeable, November/December) – Period after Diwali (see above) when Tamils paint murals and place diyas (small lamps) outside houses.
• Guru Nank Jayanti (changeable) – Celebrates the birth of the founder of Sikhism, Guru Nanak, and is marked by prayers and parades. Public holiday.

Chennai in December

• Christmas Day (25th) – Celebrated by all Christians and most tourists. Public holiday, when some government offices and tourist attractions may close.
• New Year’s Eve (31st) – Celebrated by most Indians, and all tourists, but perhaps not as boisterously as in the West.
• Margazhi/Chennai Festival of Dance and Music (mid-December to mid-January) – One month of traditional music and classical dance at various locations across the city.
• Chennai Book Fair (December to January) – For 10 days over the Christmas/New Year period, book-lovers and authors converge for this renowned literary fair.

About Santorini Dave

• Destinations

Chennai Travel Guide: Places to Visit, Things to do & Other Chennai Travel Essentials

A Chennai travel guide is among the most helpful things you can have if visiting this spectacular South Indian city for the first time. Chennai has been blessed with a scenic landscape, mouthwatering cuisine, and an incredibly rich time-honored history. It would be an understatement to say that Chennai is among the best destinations to explore in India. The capital of Tamil Nadu state, it is home to so many attractions that it leaves first timers utterly confused about where to begin and what to see first! This is where our Chennai travel guide will come in incredibly handy.

Check out the most helpful Chennai travel guide you’ll ever come across and enjoy exploring this gorgeous South Indian city without a single hassle whatsoever! Just let the travel guide Chennai we’ve brought you to guide your way through the visit.

Getting to and from Chennai International Airport:

Whether you’re on a planned vacation or down on last minute flights , you will arrive at the spectacular  Chennai International Airport (MAA) . The cheapest way to the city from the airport is via the suburban train which you can catch from the Chennai Park Station. There is also the bus service you can make use of. Get the exact Chennai tourist information about buses at the airport help desk and board the right bus likewise. Alternatively, you can hire cabs. You will find prepaid taxi booths outside both terminals of the Chennai International Airport. You can book an Uber or Ola cab as well.

Getting around in Chennai:

Our Chennai travel guide lists many ways to get around in the city. Public buses are operated efficiently by the Metropolitan Transport Corporation, or MTC. Thereby, you will find a vast number of air-conditioned and ordinary buses plying to various parts of the city. Traveling like the locals will add to your amazing Chennai travel experience. However, if public buses aren’t your thing, you can always hire taxis, rent cars, or use auto rickshaws. Although costlier than buses, they are comfortable modes of transport across Chennai.

Where to stay in Chennai:

There are countless options when it comes to accommodation in Chennai. You will find many Chennai travel blogs online that will list some top places to stay in Chennai when arriving on business class flights . Be assured that there are accommodations that suit all types of budget requirements. So pick a place to stay depending on your budget, location, and other requirements. Top places to stay listed by our Chennai travel guide include Old Woodlands, Oriental Inn, Hotel Regent, Westin Park, Lemon Tree Hotel, Courtyard Chennai, ITC Hotel Park Sheraton & Towers, Radisson GRT Hotel, Taj Coromandel, and Trident Chennai among others.

Top things to see and do in Chennai:

Chennai tourism is among the most flourishing ones in the country owing to the number of amazing attractions this splendid city is home to. You will need to make multiple trips to Chennai to as there is simply too much to cover in a single trip! Here’s a look at the best attractions listed by our Chennai travel guide.

• Historical sites: There are several historical places in Chennai that history-loving tourists will be thrilled to explore. Some of the most popular ones you can visit include Fort St. George, the Regional Grand Lodge of Southern India, and Adyar to name a few. You can visit some popular museums as well such as the Government Museum and the National Art Gallery for a detailed peek into Chennai’s incredible past.
• Religious places: Chennai is famously home to some of the most ancient and spectacular temples in South India. The must-visit Kapaleeshwar Temple is perhaps the most popular tourist place in Chennai. Other famous places of worship to visit in Chennai as listed by our Chennai travel guide include Parthasarathy Temple, Ashtalakshmi Temple, Kalikambal Temple, Wallajah Mosque, and St. Thomas Mount among other places.
• Chennai beaches: Some of the most beautiful beaches of South India can be found right here in Chennai. Visited by locals, tourists, families, couples, and friends alike, beaches are among the best places to visit in Chennai. Our Chennai travel guide lists top beaches you can visit such as the Marina Beach, Eliot’s Beach, and Breezy Beach.
• Family attractions: Chennai travel experiences are best when you visit with your family. Popular family attractions you can enjoy in Chennai include Cholamandal Artists’ Village, Queensland Water Park, MGM Dizzee World, Anna Zoological Park, and Guindy National Park to name a few. You can also explore the cultural, music, and food scene in Chennai with your loved ones.
• Shopping spots in Chennai: There are some amazing things you can buy in Chennai at the lowest possible prices. Must-buy items include Kanchivaram sarees, jewelry, handicrafts, ethnic wear, and fabrics of various kinds. Popular Chennai street shopping spots as listed by our Chennai travel guide include Pondy Bazaar, T Nagar, George Town, Mylapore, Anna Nagar, Panagal Park, and Egmore. There are a lot of high-end malls as well in Chennai.

Where and what to eat in Chennai:

You will find a plethora of upmarket restaurants, beach cafes, mid-range eateries, and even street food stalls serving a wide assortment of mouthwatering cuisine in Chennai . Food is a vital part of Chennai tourism. Your trip to this remarkable city will remain incomplete unless you’ve tried some of the most delicious and popular food items in Chennai. Try unfailingly the lip-smacking local dishes that include Idli, Vada, Sambar, Dosa, Chicken 65, Pongal, Crab Rasam, Prawn/Fish Biryani, and Chettinad Chicken among other things.

Popular places to eat in our Chennai travel guide include Amaravathi, Anupama Southern Spice, Madurai Appu, Mughal’s Zaika, Murugan Idli Shop, Pizzaurant, Cafe Mercara, The Residency and scores of other places. Do check beforehand if you need to make reservations when visiting high-end restaurants.

Best time to visit Chennai:

Chennai has a reputation of being one of the hotter regions in India. Thereby, our Chennai travel guide suggests you avoid booking cheap flights to Chennai for a visit during summer. The humidity, scorching sun, and generally arid climate will wreak havoc on your sightseeing plans. For the best Chennai travel experience, visit any time between November and February. Chennai tourism is best explored during these pleasant winter months without you having to worry about sunburns and heat strokes. So keep our Chennai travel guide in hand and plan a winter visit to this spectacular South Indian city!

Chennai Festivals :

When it comes to festivals and cultures of South India, Tamil Nadu is one of those states in India which has carefully preserved its tradition. There are various colorful festivals celebrated throughout the year in the state such as Pongal, Thaipusam, Thiruvaiyaru Festival, Natyanjali Dance Festival, Mahamaham, Tamil New Year’s Day, Karthigai Deepam, etc. And if you visit its capital city during this time, you’ll find many interesting things to do in Chennai during these festivals. 

Chennai travel tips:

If you are planning to travel long distances, use underground metro services during the afternoon and evening to avoid traffic. Local food and water are to be consumed carefully. Instead, use purified bottled water. Pickpocketing in crowded areas is common in Chennai, so take care of your belongings. If you are shopping, always bargain, as the shopkeepers tend to quote a higher price. This travel guide to Chennai might be helpful for you especially if you are a first time visitor.

1: What are the best places to visit in Chennai?

A: There are many popular places to visit in Chennai like Marina Beach, Dakshinachitra, Elliot’s Beach, Mylapore, Sri Parthasarathy Temple, Connemara Public Library, Valluvar Kottam etc.

 2: Is Chennai worth visiting?

A: Yes, obviously. There are a variety of places to visit in Chennai like beaches, mosques, museums, national parks, temples, fishing harbors and a lot more. There are various things to do in Chennai apart from just sightseeing. 

 3: W hat is the main festival of Chennai?

A: There are many festivals throughout the year like Pongal, Thaipusam, Thiruvaiyaru Festival, Natyanjali Dance Festival, Mahamaham, Tamil New Year’s Day, Karthigai D eepam, etc.

– Travel Diary

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Chennai is India ’s fourth largest city. It's located in the northeastern corner of Tamil Nadu on the Bay of Bengal, with a population nudging ten million. Hot, congested and noisy, it’s the major transport hub of the south and a tourist destination in its own right. The attractions of the city are diverse. It boasts fine specimens of Raj architecture, pilgrimage sites connected with the apostle, Doubting Thomas, superb Chola bronzes at its state museum, and plenty of classical music and dance performances.

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Geographically, Chennai divides into three main sectors.

North of the River Cooum stands Fort St George, site of the first British outpost in India, and George Town, the commercial centre, which developed during British occupation. George Town’s principal landmark is Parry’s Corner, located at the southern end of Rajaji Salai.

Sandwiched between the Cooum and Adyar rivers is central Chennai, the modern, commercial heart of the metropolis, crossed and served by the city’s main thoroughfare, Anna Salai.

East of Anna Salai is the atmospheric old Muslim quarter of Triplicane and beyond is the long straight Marina with its massive beach, fishing boats and hordes of domestic tourists, saris and trousers hitched up, enjoying a paddle.

Further south along the coast is the district of Mylapore, inhabited by the Portuguese in the 1500s, with its two important places of pilgrimage and tourist attractions, Kapalishvara Temple and San Thomé Cathedral.

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Kapaleeshwarar temple, Chennai © Shutterstock

From one of the longest city beaches in the world to Cholamandal Artists’ Village here are the best things to do in Chennai

#1 Marvel at Fort St George

Fort St George is quite unlike any other fort in India. Facing the sea amid state offices, it looks more like a complex of well-maintained colonial mansions than a fort.

Many of its buildings are today used as offices and are a hive of activity during the week. It is now the house of the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly and the Secretariat.

The fort was the first structure of Madras town and the first territorial possession of the British in India. Construction began in 1640 but most of the original buildings were damaged during French sieges and replaced later that century.

The most imposing structure is the slate-grey-and-white eighteenth-century colonnaded Fort House.

#2 Explore Fort Museum in Chennai

The collection within faithfully records the central events of the British occupation of Madras with portraits, regimental flags, weapons, East India Company coins, medals, stamps and thick woollen uniforms that make you wonder how the Raj survived as long as it did.

The first floor is now an art gallery, where portraits of prim officials and their wives sit side by side with fine sketches of the British embarking at Chennai in aristocratic finery, attended by Indians in loincloths.

Also on display are etchings by the famous artist Thomas Daniell, whose work largely defined British perceptions of India at the end of the eighteenth century.

#3 Seek out St Mary’s Church

South of the Fort Museum, past the State Legislature, stands the oldest surviving Anglican Church in Asia, St Mary’s, built in 1678 and partly renovated after the battle of 1759.

It’s distinctly English in style, crammed with plaques and statues in memory of British soldiers, politicians and their wives.

The grandest plaque, made of pure silver, was presented by Elihu Yale, former governor of Fort St George (1687–96) and founder of Yale University.

A collection of photographs of visiting dignitaries, including Queen Elizabeth II, is on display in the entrance porch.

St Mary's Church in Chennai India © Shutterstock

#4 Wander around George Town

The former British trading centre of George Town remains the focal area for banks, offices, shipping companies and street stalls.

This network of streets harbours a fascinating medley of architecture: eighteenth- and nineteenth-century churches, Hindu and Jain temples and a scattering of mosques, interspersed with grand mansions.

In the east, on Rajaji Salai, the General Post Office occupies a robust earth-red Indo-Saracenic building constructed in 1884.

George Town’s southern extent is marked by the bulbous white domes and sandstone towers of the High Court and the even more opulent towers of the Law College, both showing strong Islamic influence.

#5 Check out the remarkable Government Museum

The Chennai Government Museum contains some remarkable archeological finds from south India and the Deccan.

Inside the deep-red, circular main building, built in 1851, the first gallery is devoted to archeology and geology; the highlights are the dismantled panels, railings and statues from the second-century AD stupa complex at Amaravati.

These carved marble reliefs of the Buddha’s life are widely regarded as the finest achievements of early Indian art.

To the left of here high, arcaded halls full of stuffed animals lead to the ethnology gallery, where models, clothes, weapons and photographs of expressionless faces in orderly lines illustrate local tribal societies, some long since wiped out.

A fascinating display of wind and string instruments, drums and percussion includes the large predecessor of today’s sitar and several old tablas.

The museum’s real treasure trove, however, is the modern wing, which contains the world’s most complete selection of Chola bronzes.

#6 See the sublime Georgian architecture of St Andrew’s Kirk

Just northeast of Egmore Station, St Andrew’s Kirk, consecrated in 1821, is a fine example of Georgian architecture.

Modelled on London’s St Martin-in-the-Fields, it’s one of just three churches in India with a circular seating plan, laid out beneath a huge dome painted blue with gold stars and supported by a sweep of Corinthian columns.

Marble plaques around the church give a fascinating insight into the kind of people who left Britain to work for the imperial and Christian cause.

A staircase leads onto the flat roof, surrounding the dome, from where you can climb further up into the steeple past the massive bell to a tiny balcony affording excellent views of the city.

#7 Relax at The Marina, one of the longest city beaches in the world

One of the longest city beaches in the world, the Marina (Kamaraj Salai) stretches 5km from the harbour at the southeastern corner of George Town to near San Thomé Cathedral.

Going south, you’ll pass the Indo-Saracenic Presidency College (1865–71), one of a number of stolid Victorian buildings that make up the University, as well as adjacent Vivekananda House.

The beach itself is a sociable stretch, peopled by idle paddlers, picnickers and pony-riders; every afternoon crowds gather around the beach market.

However, its location, just a little downstream from the port, which belches out waste and smelly fumes, combined with its function as the toilet for the fishing community, detract from its natural beauty.

Marina beach Chennai, India © Shutterstock

#8 Visit the interesting Vivekananda House

Housed in a splendidly rotund and ornate stone building, the nineteenth-century Madras depot of the Tudor Ice Company has been converted into the interesting Vivekananda House museum.

It offers an excellent account of the life of the nineteenth-century saint, Swami Vivekananda, who stayed here for some time in 1897. Now a branch of the Sri Ramakrishna Math organisation, the museum contains attractive visual displays of Hindu beliefs, as well as photographic and detailed textual material on Vivekananda’s life.

#9 Wander around Mylapore in Chennai

Long before Madras came into existence, Mylapore, south of the Marina, was a major settlement; the Greek geographer Ptolemy mentioned it in the second century AD as a thriving port. During the Pallava period (fifth to ninth centuries) it was second only to Mamallapuram.

Its two outstanding sights are the venerable San Thomé Cathedral and the mighty Kapalishvara Temple, while the Sri Ramakrishna Math also warrants a visit.

#10 See some early Portuguese maps of India inside San Thomé Cathedral

An important stop on the St Thomas pilgrimage trail, San Thomé Cathedral marks the eastern boundary of Mylapore, lying close to the sea at the southern end of the Marina on San Thomé High Road.

Although the present neo-Gothic structure dates from 1896, it stands on the site of two earlier churches built over the tomb of St Thomas.

The saint’s relics are kept inside the nave, accessed by an underground passage from the small museum at the rear of the courtyard, and are the object of great reverence.

The museum itself houses stones inscribed in Tamil, Sanskrit (twelfth-century Chola) and early Portuguese, and a map of India, dated 1519.

#11 Find peace at the Kapalishvara Temple

The huge Kapalishvara Temple sits just under 1 km west of the San Thomé Cathedral, off RK Mutt Road.

Seventh-century Tamil poet-saints sang its praises, but the present structure, dedicated to Shiva, probably dates from the sixteenth century. The huge (40m) gopura towering above the main east entrance, plastered in stucco figures, was added in 1906.

Surrounding an assortment of busy shrines, where priests offer blessings for devotees and non-Hindus alike, the courtyard features an old tree where a small shrine to Shiva’s consort, Parvati, shows her in the form of a peahen (mayil) worshipping a lingam.

#12 Saunter through the peaceful and extensive grounds of Sri Ramakrishna Math

A short walk south of the Kapalishvara Temple, lie the peaceful and extensive grounds of the Sri Ramakrishna Math, an active place of study for devotees wishing to follow the teachings of the famous nineteenth-century master.

The focus of interest for the casual visitor is the Universal Temple of Sri Ramakrishna, an elegant construction combining architectural motifs from Hindu, Buddhist and Jain temples, as well as European churches.

The manicured forecourt echoes the Islamic themes of the Mughals.

Within the temple itself are a series of prayer halls, approached by steps, and the inner sanctum contains a solid marble statue of Ramakrishna seated on a lotus.

Sri Ramakrishna Math in Chennai © Shutterstock

#13 Seek refuge in the Little Mount Caves

St Thomas is said to have sought refuge from persecution in the Little Mount Caves, 8 km south of the city centre.

Entrance to the caves is beside steps leading to a statue of Our Lady of Good Health. Inside, next to a small natural window in the rock, are impressions of what are believed to be St Thomas’ handprints, created when he made his escape through this tiny opening.

Behind the new circular church of Our Lady of Good Health is a natural spring. Tradition has it that this was created when Thomas struck the rock, so the crowds that came to hear him preach could quench their thirst; samples of its holy water are on sale.

#14 Walk to the top of St Thomas Mount

It’s said that St Thomas was speared to death while praying before a stone cross on St Thomas Mount, 11km south of the city centre.

Our Lady of Expectation Church (1523), at the summit of the Mount, can be reached by 134 granite steps marked with the fourteen Stations of the Cross.

Alternatively, there is a road that curls its way to the top, where a huge old banyan tree provides shade for devotees who come to fast, pray and sing.

Inside the church, St Thomas’ cross is rumoured to have bled in 1558, while the altar is said to mark the exact spot of the apostle’s death; the painting of the Madonna and Child above the altar is attributed to St Luke.

#15 Explore the rare Tibetan xylographs at the Theosophical Society headquarters

The Theosophical Society was established in New York in 1875 by American Civil War veteran Colonel Henry S. Olcott and the eccentric Russian aristocrat Madame Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, who claimed to have occult powers.

Based on a fundamental belief in the equality and truth of all religions, the society in fact propagated a modern form of Hinduism, praising all things Indian and shunning Christian missionaries.

Needless to say, its two founders were greeted enthusiastically when they transferred their operations to Madras in 1882, establishing their headquarters near Elliot’s Beach in Adyar.

The society’s buildings still stand today, sheltering several shrines and an excellent library of books on religion and philosophy.

The collection includes 800-year-old scroll pictures of the Buddha; rare Tibetan xylographs; exquisitely illuminated Korans; a giant copy of Martin Luther’s Biblia printed in Nuremberg three hundred years ago; and a thumbnail-sized Bible in seven languages.

Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Mylapore, Chennai, India © Shutterstock

Finding an inexpensive place to stay in Chennai can sometimes be a problem.

With the 24hr check-out system, it’s difficult to predict availability and some of the cheaper places don’t take advance bookings.

The good news is that standards in the cheapies are better than in other cities.

Egmore and Triplicane

Most of the mid-range and inexpensive hotels are around the railway station in Egmore and further east in Triplicane.

To the south of Chennai

The bulk of the top hotels are in the south of the city and several offer courtesy buses to and from the airport.

Explore the best hotels to stay in Chennai.

Chennai offers the complete range of dining options you would expect from a major city.

The choice ranges from dirt-cheap vegetarian “meals” joints to high-class Westernised hotel restaurants, with some unique independent venues in between. Make sure you don't miss Saravana Bhavan, a south Indian fast-food chain, there are more than twenty branches dotted around the city.

Chennai’s bar and club scene has also been growing along with the disposable income of the local middle class. Most of the major nightspots are located in the top-end hotels dotted around the south side of the city.

Nungambakkam

With a number of shopping centres, there is plenty of choice for foodies in busy Nungambakkam. The best places are on Nungambakkam High Rd and Dr MGR Salai.

Located in South Chennai, Adyarhas some trendy cafes and good-quality South Indian restaurants, especially along Sardar Patel Rd.

Besant Nagar

Situated along the coast, it’s the seafood stalls on the beach that attracts most travellers to Besant Nagar, but it’s worth stepping back onto 4th Main Rd as well where a clutch of restaurants offer plenty of variety.

San Thome church in Chennai © Shutterstock

Chennai’s sights and facilities are spread over such a wide area that it’s impossible to get around without using some form of public transport.

Most visitors jump in auto-rickshaws, but outside rush hours you can travel around comfortably by bus or on the suburban train.

A section of the new Chennai metro between Koyambedu and Alandur was up and running, as was the line from Little Mount to the airport.

By bus tour

One good way to get around the sights of Chennai is on a TTDC bus tour. They’re good value, albeit rushed, and the guides can be very helpful.

The TTDC half-day tour takes in Fort St George, the Government Museum (Birla Planetarium on Fri), the Snake Park, Kapalishvara Temple, and Marina Beach.

City trains travel between Beach (opposite the GPO), Fort, Park (for Central), Egmore, Nungambakkam, Kodambakkam, Mambalam (for T Nagar and silk shops), Saidapet (for Little Mount Church), Guindy, St Thomas Mount and Tirisulam (for the airport).

If you want to travel south from central Chennai to Guindy (Deer Park) or the airport, the easiest way to go is by suburban train (aka the MRST). Buy a ticket before boarding.

Local bus routes radiate out from the amalgamated Express and Broadway bus stands, between Central train station and George Town. On Anna Salai and other major thoroughfares buses have dedicated stops, but on smaller streets you have to flag them down, or wait with the obvious crowd.

By rickshaw

Auto-rickshaw drivers in Chennai are notorious for demanding high fares from locals and tourists alike. The diversions and one-way systems in place due to the construction of the metro are having a considerable effect on journey times and hence rickshaw prices.

Chennai’s yellow-top Ambassador taxis have metres but drivers often refuse to use them, so prepare yourself for some hard bargaining.

The ideal time to visit Chennai is during the pleasant winter months from November to February, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C. This allows for enjoyable exploration of the city's attractions, outdoor activities, and leisurely beach walks.

It is advisable to avoid the monsoon season from June to September due to heavy rainfall and the hot and humid summer months from March to May.

Find out more about the best time to visit India .

St Andrews church, Chennai © Shutterstock

If you're primarily interested in exploring the city's major attractions and experiencing its cultural offerings, a duration of 2 to 3 days should be sufficient. This will allow you to visit popular landmarks such as the Marina Beach, Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Fort St. George, Government Museum, and San Thome Basilica. Additionally, you can explore traditional markets like Pondy Bazaar and T. Nagar for shopping and immerse yourself in the local cuisine.

If you wish to extend your stay and explore beyond the city, you can consider allocating more time. Chennai serves as a gateway to other notable destinations in Tamil Nadu, such as Mahabalipuram (famous for its UNESCO World Heritage site temples and beach) and Pondicherry (known for its French colonial architecture and serene ambiance), which can be visited as day trips or overnight stays.

Chennai airport, the airport in Tirisulam, 16 km southwest of the city centre on NH-45, is comprehensively served by international and domestic flights.

The new international and domestic terminals are a short walk from each other, on opposite sides of the old terminal.

Facilities at both are much better on the air side than the land side.

Chennai has two main long-distance railway stations – Egmore and Central, both on the north side of the city centre and just 1.5km apart. Egmore station is the arrival point for most trains from Tamil Nadu and Kerala .

Mofussil Bus Stand Buses from all long-distance destinations use the huge Mofussil Bus Stand, inconveniently situated in the suburb of Koyambedu, more than 10 km west of the centre.

Mofussil is linked to other parts of Chennai by a host of city buses, which depart from the well-organised platforms outside the main terminal.

Boats leave Chennai every week/ten days for Port Blair, capital of the Andaman Islands .

The first thing you’ll need to do is contact the Shipping Corporation of India at 17 Rajaji Salai, Jawahar Building, George Town to find out when the next sailing is.

Tickets usually go on sale up to a month prior to departure. There are no ticket sales on the day of sailing.

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updated 22.06.2023

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Best Season to Visit Chennai

October to february is best season to visit chennai.

Chennai, the cultural capital of India can be visited throughout the year, but winter is the best time to visit Chennai, begin in October and last till February. Winter is the perfect time to visit the metropolitan city and its beautiful beaches. The weather remains cool and pleasant which is perfect time for sightseeing. Winter season is also famous for many festivals in the city like Dance and Music Festival in December, Travel & Tourism Fair and Pongal in January. Also, Visiting Chennai during these events experience a festive mood and a memorable trip.

Peak Season in Chennai

November to january is peak season in chennai.

December and January are the busiest seasons in Chennai. New Year time and Pongal attracts a large number of tourists and hotel prices are also climb up during this season. Travel and Tourism fair also attracts considerable number of tourists and travel organizations to participate in the event.

Chennai Weather

Minimum temperature in chennai, maximum temperature in chennai, present temperature in chennai, winter (october - february):.

Chennai constitutes of winter from October to February. This is the best time to visit Chennai. This is the time of festivals like Pongal and also some dance festivals. This is the prime attraction during winter. The temperature rises to 25�C at this time. Ideologically this is the best time to visit here.

Summer (March - May):

These are the hottest and humid months. During summer sometimes it will rise above 40�C.�Marina Beach is the prime place to do outdoor activities in summer. Too many travelers are arriving at Marina to get some relief from the hottest weather. At night time fresh and cool air will be produced from the ocean wind. Summers can offer best deals with hotels and travelers.

Monsoon (June - September):

During monsoon Chennai will be accompanied by heavy rainfall and wind from the sea. But heavy rainfalls occur only some of the periods in monsoon. So the climate will be cool and the city would wash with its splendor. You can experience a different Chennai during this time. The temperature does not rise more than 30�C in the time of monsoon. This is an ideal time to explore Chennai.

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• Best Time To Visit Chennai

Plan Your Trip

In Chennai explore a unique exhibit of architecture from the British Raj, pay homage to serene religious sites and relish some delectable South Indian cuisine. Home to the second largest beach in India, Chennai is a complete treasure of tourist attractions. The beautiful city has a lot to offer to globetrotter, only they should know when is the best time to visit Chennai for sightseeing and other travel activities.

Chennai experiences a hot and humid summer with day time being extremely hot. Though not the best time to visit Chennai , during the evening the gentle breeze flows that makes it possible for a tourist to stroll at Marina Beach and Besant Nagar Beach. To take a breather from scorching heat you can visit Chennai Malls such as The City Center, Gold Mall and Spencer Plaza.

Monsoon is the time when Chennai experience heavy rainfall that starts from June and lasts till August. The rain brings some relief after the hot summers when a tourist can enjoy the season with sightseeing of prominent sites and temples.

In Chennai, the winter season begins in November and ends in February. The temperature recorded during winter is between 19°C and 27°C, which offer a favorable and pleasant condition to plan a Chennai tour. It is the best season to visit Chennai for sightseeing and indulge in various fun activities.

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Best Time To Visit Chennai

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Best Time to Visit Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India

Chennai, located on the southeast coast of India, experiences a tropical wet and dry climate. The best time to visit Chennai is typically during the pre-monsoon and winter months, between October and February . During this period, the weather is relatively pleasant with milder temperatures and lower humidity levels. The maximum temperature hovers around 30°C, while the minimum can drop to around 20°C, making sightseeing and outdoor activities enjoyable. Moreover, this season hosts several cultural festivals, including the famous Music and Dance Festival in December, which could be a major attraction for tourists interested in the local arts.

Avoid visiting during the peak summer months from March to early June, when temperatures can soar to 40°C, coupled with high humidity levels, which makes it quite uncomfortable for traveling and exploring the city. The monsoon season starts in late June and continues till September, characterized by heavy rains and occasional thunderstorms which could disrupt travel plans and outdoor excursions. If monsoon charm is what you seek, late June to August can also offer a unique experience despite the potential for rain, although it is generally considered off-season for tourism.

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Best Time to Visit Chennai

Best time to visit chennai.

Chennai is one of the cities that has successfully blended the modern, traditional and sides with ease. The city welcomes everyone who wants to seek a soulful and spiritual connection but also those who love shopping for sarees and enjoy good food. There is no conundrum in Chennai when you visit. It’s all about the moment, whether you decide to take a stroll down Marina Beach or visit one of the many temples that you will find here. Chennai Tourism is indeed spectacular and is a must visit place

Chennai is located on the coast and this is one of the reasons it’s often hot and humid. For those who are not accustomed to the warm weather, it might come as a shock indeed. Hence, it’s a good idea to know what to expect when you visit Chennai, so you are adequately prepared with the right sort of clothes and gear.

Peak Season – The best time to visit Chennai is between the months of October to February, i.e. from the end of monsoon and all of winter. During this time, the weather is relatively pleasant and it’s not that hot and sticky. This means you will be able to enjoy sightseeing around the city without feeling the blast of summer heat. There are numerous traditional festivals that take place in Chennai during winter and it’s wonderful if you’re able to partake in them.

Shoulder Season – March to June

Low Season – June to November

Chennai In Winter (November to February)

Temperature – During winter, Chennai sees its coolest weather as the minimum temperature hovers at around 22°C. This is the coolest Chennai can get.

Weather – The weather of Chennai in winter is tolerably pleasant. The weather is not too cold and not too hot and you can partake in sightseeing around the city. While temperatures can reach 30°C, it’s still considered better than the city during other seasons. As the city is on the coast, there can be some light rainfall but it’s manageable and will not put a dampener on your holiday plans which makes it the best season to visit Chennai.

Significance – Chennai during the winter is a wonderful place to visit. The weather is comfortable and there all the many places that you can explore with family and friends. There are temples, churches and a number of architectural delights that will keep you busy here during this time, without facing the sweltering heat of the sun. It’s a great time to enjoy the many delights the city has on offer.

Why you should visit now – Chennai during winter is perfect especially if you want to enjoy some of the festivals that are organised specifically during this time. In December, there’s the Dance and Music festival but Chennai during Pongal festivities in January is quite spectacular. The entire city comes alive as people celebrate this cherished harvest festival and you will get the chance to enjoy several delicious meals as well. During the months of February or March, you will also get to see the Natyanjali Dance Festival if you’re lucky.There are really some amazing places to visit in Chennai ,so make sure to check it out

Things to know before the visit – Chennai during winters also sees some mild rains as it is on the coast. The rains sometimes tend to be on the heavier side but usually, they are often manageable. Chennai during winters is the perfect time to see the city as you can move around comfortably without feeling overwhelmed by the heat.  Also, do remember that since this is peak season, there will be a great number of tourists and thus flight rates will pick up accordingly. Do remember to book your flight and accommodation in advance. As it is holiday and festival season, lots of people will also be traveling back to their families and this causes a spike in the flight prices.

Tips – Chennai winters are mild and if you’re from a place where the cold is much harsher, you may not feel the bite of the cold at all. However, do remember to pack accordingly and make sure you carry a light shawl or cardigan with you. Don’t forget to pack essentials like lip balm, moisturizers and sunscreen especially. Do remember to carry an umbrella with you for sudden emergencies.

Chennai In Summer (March to June)

Temperature – Summers are very hot in Chennai and the temperatures range from lows of 26°C to highs of 40°C too.

Weather – Approach a holiday in Chennai during summer well-equipped for the heat. The weather is extreme and with the humidity, the heat and stickiness don’t make it comfortable to travel. Days are hot while nights are also warm. There’s a real chance of heatstroke and dehydration, so do remain hydrated.  It’s certainly not the best climate to visit Chennai.

Significance – Chennai summers are blisteringly hot and if you happen to be there during this time, then do make sure you drink enough fluids and stay hydrated. The month of May or June might also see a heatwave in Chennai which can aggravate the temperature even further. If you do find yourself in the city during this time, then stick to your hotel where you can stay in air-conditioned comfort and venture outside only during the evenings when cool and refreshing breezes from the sea flow in.

Why you should visit now – Chennai is best avoided during the summer. If you do plan to visit, the positive factors could be that hotels are not pricy at all during this time. So, accommodation is not very expensive. As a bustling metropolis, Chennai offers much by way of entertainment with its many malls, cinemas and excellent restaurants. Eat your fill and remember to drink water, and not just filter coffee!

Things to know before the visit – As this is low season, flight tickets and accommodation prices are quite low. But the downside is that the heat can be quite stressful and many people have known to suffer from heat strokes. Make sure to keep your head covered with some cap or hat if you venture outside and apply lots of sunscreens. For budget travellers, this season might be welcome because of the low prices.

Tips – With the sun beating down on you harshly, no amount of precautions can be enough to prevent heat stroke or dehydration from affecting you in Chennai during summer. So, do remember to pack light and breathable cotton clothes and ensure that you have sunscreen with SPF 30+ at least as it will prevent a sunburn. The other must-have accessories during this time are sunglasses and a hat to protect your head if you intend to step out during the day. And no matter what happens, don’t forget to drink enough water to hydrate yourself constantly.

Chennai In Monsoon (July to September)

Temperature – During monsoon, Chennai sees temperatures ranging between 27°C to 34°C.

Weather – Chennai during the monsoons can be dramatic and unpredictable. There are heavy downpours and even cyclones during this time and strong winds buffet about everything. Due to the proximity of the sea, the rains can be quite harsh here. The temperatures are manageable during this time but there are also chances of floods. Roads can get muddy and walking around can be quite a problem.

Significance – Exercise a bit of caution when planning a trip to Chennai during this season. Roads in low lying areas tend to get flooded and water can even seep inside homes. However, as it’s off season, people will find that tickets and accommodation are quite reasonably priced. While at the beginning of monsoon, the rains are lighter and manageable, as it proceeds truly, monsoon can bring heavy cyclonic rains to the city.

Why you should visit now – Although sightseeing might be harder during this season, early mornings might still be better as the breeze is fresh and clean and if there’s no rain, you can head to the beach.

Things to know before the visit – Make sure you check the weather forecast before you step out for the day. Even though the forecast might predict clear weather, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. So make sure you have adequate rain protection and umbrellas if you are going outside. Make sure you have adequate protection from rain.

Tips – Visiting Chennai during the monsoon? Then you need to make sure you carry the right sort of gear with you. Whether it’s an umbrella, a light jacket, or rain proof footwear, make sure you have everything with you. Pack light clothes and preferably something that will dry easily even if you get caught in a downpour. Make sure you protect your gadgets in plastic bags if you’re going outside in the rain. Other things to remember during the monsoon would be mosquito repellents.

If you have decided the best time to visit Chennai, make sure you check out Thomas Cook’s exciting Chennai Tour Packages . Piping hot filter coffee and the best idli-vadai you have eaten in your life await you.You can also check out more ways on How to reach Chennai

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States › Tamil Nadu › Chennai › Best Time Visit

Best Time to Visit Chennai Tamil Nadu

Chennai, one of the most scenic destinations to travel, characterizes a pleasant climate almost round the year. As it lies in the tropical zone, the summers here though are extremely hot and humid. However the heavy rainfall that this city witnesses comes like a great relief. Winter season, that begins in the month of November and lasts till February, is the best time to visit Chennai. In this season the temperature remains mild accompanied with occasional rainfall. Tourists can best relax and rejuvenate at this time amidst the mesmerizing beauty of this destination and can also be a part of the festivities.

Summer season in Chennai can get really hot and humid, as the city comes in the tropical zone. This season begins in the month of March and lasts till May. The average temperature in summers hovers between 28 °C to 32°C. In this season the temperature can raise upto 40°C. Travelers journeying across Chennai in summers can be a part of the Natyanjali Dance Festival which is celebrated by the locals with full gusto.

Monsoon season in Chennai starts in the month of June and ends in the month of August. The monsoons here feature strong winds and heavy rainfall. If you wish to explore the city in the monsoon season, you can be a part of the widely celebrated festival of Ganesh Chaturthi and delight in a festive mood.

Winter season is the best time to make a visit to Chennai as the city is at its best during this time. This season begins in the month of November and lasts till the month of February. The temperature in this season hovers between 20 °C to 25 °C. The occasional rainfall that the city witnesses in winters is sure to add on a romantic and memorable feel to your trip. You can also indulge in the all-round festivity as there are numerous festivals that Chennai hosts at this time. Chennai Music and Dance Festival, Chennai Sangamam, Tourist Fair, Chennai Book Fair, Karthigai Deepam and Pongal are few of the festivals you must take part in.

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Weather and Seasons in Chennai

Best time to visit chennai.

Chennai exhibits a moderate hot temperature throughout the day with moderate humidity as it is along the coastal lines of the Bay of Bengal.

Seasons in Chennai:

• Summer (March to June): Summers in Chennai are hot and humid and there are several overcast days in this season. The hottest temperature in this season is around 45-degrees Celsius.
• Monsoon (July to September):   Monsoon arrives in Chennai in July and the average rainfall here is around 140cms. It often rains till mid-December.
• Winter (November to February): January is the coolest month in Chennai with average temperature of 25-degrees Celsius. Be sure to carry an umbrella or raincoat with you in case of sudden rains. 

You can travel to Chennai any time throughout the year. City will be generally hot except between months of December to February where in you can find some rainy days with mild chillness during the day time. If you really want to avoid summer season and the hot temperature then you can try going between the months of November to February. Temperature would range from 25°C to 30°C during these months.

The best time to visit Chennai is Winter (November to February).

• 30℉ 0℉

Highest temperature in Chennai is recorded as 107.6℉ in May.

Lowest temperature in Chennai is recorded as 64.4℉ in February and December.

Most humid month in Chennai is November.

Least humid month in Chennai is June.

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• TRAVEL TIPS
• Best Time To Visit

Best Time To Visit Chennai

Ideal Time for Places to visit:

In many southern Indian towns, travel arrangements may be impacted by the intense temperature and monsoon rainfall. Contrary to Mumbai and Goa, Chennai experiences its most rainfall from August to December, with peaks in October and November. Chennai is warm and muggy all year long, but between April and July, it becomes harsher. The optimum months to travel are thus only January, February, and March.

Greatest Climate:

The warmish period, which lasts from January to March, is when there is the most sunlight, the least amount of heat (yet), the least amount of dampness, and it may not be rainfall for many days. The transition from mild to extreme heat occurs in April, May, and June, and the increasing dampness is especially noticeable. Chennai experiences most of its rainfall during the northeast monsoon season from October to mid-December, which misses out on the monsoon that batters Mumbai and Goa on the west side from June to September. At this time of year, violent tornadoes and hurricanes are typical, and water infiltration may also affect vacation plans.

Ideal Time for Honeymoons:

The honeymoon period is the middle of December through early April. In the remaining months of the year, stay away from the hot temperatures, high dampness, and monsoon season rainfall if possible.

Ideal Period for Nightlife:

It seldom rains between January and June. Even though the nightlife in this Tamil-dominated city is somewhat subdued, today is the most fantastic time to go out and party and bar hopping.

The right moment to save money:

The ideal period to spend pennies is May through November. Hotel prices and airfare are at their cheapest during the rainy season and its lead-up since this is the most sought-after and costly travel season.

Satisfyingly mild nighttime temperatures and day after day of warmer climate that isn’t oppressively warm or muggy. Possibly 1 or 2 days of rainfall each month. Since Chennai is not a well-known vacation destination, it is not significantly impacted by increased travel demand and accommodation costs throughout the Christmas and New Years holidays. Before the peak of the summer’s intensity and warmth (May and June) and after the worst of the rainy season is the shoulder season (April and December), which is also an excellent time to travel (July to November).

Even though early December might still be rainy and April can still be warm and muggy, the walkways are tidy by the end of the year, and the gardens are in full bloom. The weather in Chennai is not the best for tourism. Before the rainy season’s maximum rainfall in October, November, and early December, when thunderstorms are more common, the heat and humidity increase in May and June. Hotel costs decrease when the number of visitors declines, but give yourself more opportunities to get around because the rainy season may hinder your vacation schedule.

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Best Time to Visit Chennai

Chennai is best to visit during the winter season when the weather is pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities.

• Indian rupee (₹)
• Go to: Seasons , Monthly , or Itinerary

High Season in Chennai

Chennai experiences a high season from December to February when the weather is cool and ideal for exploring the city.

Shoulder Season in Chennai

The shoulder season in Chennai is from October to November and March to April. During these months, the weather is relatively less crowded, and the prices are lower.

Low Season in Chennai

The low season in Chennai is from May to September due to the monsoon season. The weather is hot and humid, but you can find good deals on accommodation.

Annual Average Temperature

Chennai in spring.

Spring in Chennai, from March to May, is hot and humid with occasional rainfall. It is advisable to carry light clothing and stay hydrated.

Chennai in Summer

Summer in Chennai, from June to August, is characterized by high temperatures and heavy rainfall. It is recommended to avoid outdoor activities during this season.

Chennai in Monsoon

Monsoon in Chennai, from September to November, brings heavy rainfall and occasional thunderstorms. Be prepared for wet conditions and plan indoor activities.

Chennai in Winter

Winter in Chennai, from December to February, is the best time to visit. The weather is pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities. Carry light sweaters or jackets for cooler evenings.

Annual Average Precipitation

Month-by-month, chennai in january.

→ 24 to 31 °C (75 to 87 °F)

January is a great time to visit Chennai, with pleasant weather and a festive atmosphere due to Pongal celebrations.

Chennai in February

→ 24 to 32 °C (76 to 90 °F)

February offers pleasant weather and is a good time to explore Chennai's beaches and historical sites.

Chennai in March

→ 27 to 36 °C (81 to 98 °F)

March marks the beginning of summer with hot and humid weather. It is advisable to carry light clothing and stay hydrated.

Chennai in April

→ 31 to 39 °C (88 to 103 °F)

April is the hottest month in Chennai, with high temperatures and occasional thunderstorms. Indoor activities are recommended.

Chennai in May

→ 32 to 41 °C (90 to 106 °F)

May is hot and humid, with temperatures reaching their peak. It is a low season, and you can find good deals on accommodation.

Chennai in June

→ 31 to 40 °C (88 to 105 °F)

June is characterized by high temperatures and heavy rainfall. It is advisable to avoid outdoor activities during this season.

Chennai in July

→ 30 to 38 °C (86 to 100 °F)

July is the wettest month in Chennai, with heavy rainfall and occasional thunderstorms. Plan indoor activities.

Chennai in August

→ 29 to 37 °C (85 to 99 °F)

August continues to experience heavy rainfall and occasional thunderstorms. It is recommended to stay indoors and explore indoor attractions.

Chennai in September

→ 30 to 37 °C (85 to 99 °F)

September marks the end of the monsoon season, but occasional rainfall can still occur. Plan indoor activities and carry an umbrella.

Chennai in October

→ 29 to 36 °C (84 to 96 °F)

October offers relatively less rainfall compared to the previous months. The weather is pleasant, and it is a good time for outdoor activities.

Chennai in November

→ 27 to 32 °C (81 to 90 °F)

November is a transition month with pleasant weather. It is a good time to explore Chennai's cultural and historical attractions.

Chennai in December

→ 25 to 30 °C (77 to 86 °F)

December marks the beginning of winter with pleasant weather. It is the best time to visit Chennai and enjoy outdoor activities.

Annual Average Humidity

Accommodation.

Chennai offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. The city has several beach resorts and business hotels centrally located for easy access to tourist attractions.

Public Transportation

Chennai has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, trains, and auto-rickshaws. The Metropolitan Transport Corporation operates buses throughout the city, providing an affordable and convenient way to get around.

Chennai Airport

Chennai International Airport is the main airport serving the city. It is well-connected with domestic and international flights. Taxis and prepaid taxi services are available for transportation to and from the airport.

Airport to City Center

From the airport, you can take a taxi or a prepaid taxi service to reach your destination in Chennai. It is recommended to book a taxi in advance or use the designated taxi services at the airport.

Is Chennai Safe?

Chennai is generally safe for tourists. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding isolated areas at night, keeping belongings secure, and being aware of your surroundings.

According to the Global Peace Index , India ranks 126th among all countries in the world in 2023. India achieved a score of 2.31 out of 5, based on 23 qualitative and quantitative indicators from highly respected sources.

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to visit Chennai is during the winter season from December to February when the weather is pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities.

A 3-4 day trip is ideal to explore the major attractions of Chennai, including historical sites, beaches, and temples. However, the duration can be adjusted based on personal preferences.

Some of the must-see attractions in Chennai include Marina Beach, Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Fort St. George, and San Thome Basilica.

Chennai offers a vibrant nightlife with a variety of options, including beachside cafes, rooftop bars, and live music venues. Marina Beach and Egmore Museum are also open at night.

Chennai has a well-connected public transportation system, including buses, trains, and auto-rickshaws. Taxis and app-based cab services like Uber and Ola are also available for convenient transportation.

Chennai 3 day Itinerary

Start your day by visiting Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in the world. Explore Fort St. George and the Government Museum. End the day with a visit to Kapaleeshwarar Temple.

• Marina Beach
• Fort St. George
• Government Museum
• Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Visit the San Thome Basilica, an iconic church in Chennai. Explore the beautiful Valluvar Kottam monument and the Birla Planetarium. Spend the evening at Express Avenue Mall.

• San Thome Basilica
• Valluvar Kottam
• Birla Planetarium
• Express Avenue Mall

Start your day by visiting the iconic Kapaleeshwarar Temple. Explore the National Art Gallery and the Guindy National Park. End the day with a relaxing sunset at Elliot's Beach.

• National Art Gallery
• Guindy National Park
• Elliot's Beach

Chennai Guide: Planning Your Trip

What to Know Before You Go

Peter Adams/Getty Images

Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, is known as the gateway to South India. This city has a population of about 10 million people, making it India's fifth largest city after Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, and Bangalore. Chennai has managed to retain a spaciousness that's lacking in other major Indian cities despite being an important city for manufacturing, healthcare, and IT. It's a sprawling and busy, yet conservative, city with deep traditions and culture that are yet to give way to the growing foreign influence there. Find out what to know before you go in this Chennai travel guide.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit: Chennai has a hot and humid climate. Summer temperatures in late May and early June often reach an extreme 38–42 degrees Celsius (100–107 degrees Fahrenheit). The city receives most of its rainfall during the northeast monsoon , from mid-September to mid-December. Heavy rains can be a problem then. The temperature decreases to an average of 24 degrees Celsius (75 Fahrenheit) during winter, from November to February, but doesn't drop below 20 degrees Celsius (68 Fahrenheit).
• Language: Tamil and English.
• Currency: Indian rupee.
• Time Zone: UTC (Coordinated Universal Time) +5.5 hours, also known as Indian Standard Time. Chennai does not have daylight saving time.
• Getting Around: App-based cabs such as Uber and Ola are the most convenient way of getting around. Auto rickshaws are plentiful but fares are relatively expensive and rarely charged as per the meter. Foreigners are usually quoted excessively high rates (often more than double) and should be prepared to negotiate hard before the journey. Buses are cheap, albeit chaotic, and cover most of the city. There's the newly-operational Metro rail network as well.
• Travel Tip: Chennai experiences high humidity throughout the year, so pack breathable cotton clothes.

Getting There

Chennai is situated on the east coast of India. Chennai International Airport is conveniently only 15 kilometers (9 miles) south of the city center. It's well connected in terms of transport. Chennai Central railway station and Egmore railway station receive long distance trains from all over India.

Things to Do

Unlike some other cities in India, Chennai doesn't have any world-famous monuments or tourist attractions. It's a city that requires time and effort to really get to know and appreciate it. These top places to Visit in Chennai will give you a feel for the city's distinctive culture and what makes it special. Storytrails conducts very interesting immersive tours. The five-week Madras Music Season in December and January is a big cultural draw. The annual Mylapore Festival is held in early January, just before the Pongal festival in mid-January. However, Chennai lacks the cosmopolitan nightlife of other Indian cities.

There are plenty of places to visit near Chennai. The tourist circuit of Chennai, Mamallapuram and Kanchipuram is often referred to as Tamil Nadu's Golden Triangle.

In addition, there are two amusement parks a short distance from the city -- the amusement park at VGP Universal Kingdom , and MGM Dizzy World.

What to Eat and Drink

The South Indian cuisine in Chennai features staples such as idli and sambar, vada and sambar, masala dosa, and filter coffee. Being a coastal city, fish curry is ubiquitous. Head to the snack stalls on Marina beach for sundal (chickpeas). Most importantly, try a South Indian thali (platter), which comes with an assortment of dishes and is a meal in itself. Ponnusamy Hotel on Jaganathan Road in Nungambakkam is famous for its humongous Baahubali Thali with 50 items! It's too big for one person to eat alone. The Marina, on College Road in Nungambakkam, is renowned for its fresh seafood and is environmentally-conscious. Thaligai Restaurant in Mylapore serves authentic vegetarian fare, featuring specialty heirloom dishes that aren't available elsewhere. Try the inexpensive messes (informal restaurants) in Mylapore for great south Indian food as well -- Karpagambal Mess, Rayar Mess, and Mami Mess are recommended. Hotel Saravana Bhavan is a popular vegetarian restaurant chain, with a branch near Egmore Station. Murugan Idli Shop is also legendary. Go to Paati Veedu in T. Nagar for traditional South Indian cuisine with a twist.

To learn more about the local cuisine in Chennai, take this food walk through Adyar.

Where to Stay

Luxury hotels in Chennai are generally less expensive than in cities such as Mumbai and Delhi. Mid-range hotels also provide great value for money. In terms of location, Mylapore is one of the best neighborhoods for tourists, as it's full of history and culture. Savera Hotel is a popular choice there.

Culture and Customs

Chennai was originally a cluster of small villages until English merchants of the British East India Company selected it as the site for a factory and trading port in 1639. The British developed it as a major urban center and naval base, and by the 20th Century, the city had become an administration hub. In recent years, Chennai has achieved booming industrial growth across a range of sectors, encouraged by the city's favorable infrastructure and availability of space.

As Chennai is one of the most conservative major cities in India, it's important to dress in a manner that respects this. Revealing or tight-fitting clothes, both on men and women, should be avoided even at the beach. Lightweight clothes that cover the arms and legs are best.

Chennai is a relatively safe destination that experiences less crime than most other major Indian cities. The main problems are pick-pocketing and begging. Beggars specifically target foreigners and can be quite aggressive. Avoid giving any money because it will only attract them in swarms. The unruly traffic in Chennai is another problem to be aware of. Drivers often drive in an undisciplined manner, so extra care should be taken when crossing the road.

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Best Time To Visit Chennai with Temperature, Activity List

Budget Hotels > Travel Blog > Destinations > Chennai > Best Time To Visit Chennai with Temperature, Activity List

Chennai, a city known for its culture and cuisine, is situated on the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal. Due to its vicinity to the coastline, the city doesn’t experience extreme temperature variations across the three seasons – summer, monsoon, and winter. However, as a result of its location near the equator, Chennai has a humid and hot climate all through the year. So, when is the best time to visit Chennai? The period from November to February is ideal for booking your hotels in Chennai and heading out for a trip. The non-peak months of summers and monsoons can also be considered depending on what you want to explore.

Let’s take a detailed look at the best season to visit Chennai, climatic conditions in summers, winters, and monsoons, and how to explore the city in each season. 

Chennai in Summers (March to June)

Summer in Chennai is characterized by hot and humid weather and scanty rainfall. March marks the beginning of this dry season and it continues till June. The season peaks in late May to early June, which is the hottest part of the year in Chennai. With the mercury levels soaring high, this period is locally known as Agni Nakshatram (which translates to fire star) or Kathiri Veyyil .

The only relief you can expect in the scorching Chennai summer is the gentle breeze that blows in the evening. Since the days are blazing hot and the nights remain equally warm, summer is not the best season to visit Chennai and explore the cityscape.

• Maximum Temperature: 33 to 38 degree Celsius
• Minimum Temperature: 22 to 28 degree Celsius

Things to Do in Chennai in Summers

Best Time to Visit Chennai

If you are visiting the city during summers, it’s advisable not to step out during the daytime. However, you can include indoor tourist places as well as early-morning and night-time attractions in your itinerary. Here’s a list of things to do in Chennai in summers:

• Go for an early morning or late-evening stroll on Marina Beach, Elliot Beach or Basant Nagar Beach
• Escape to the hill stations near Chennai – Yelagiri (230 km), Horsley Hills (263 km), Yercaud (340 km), Kolli Hills (360 km), etc.
• Watch a late-evening cultural show at Kalakshetra
• Go for a guided ghost tour in the night to the haunted places in Chennai
• Watch a movie at the Prarthana Beach Drive-in Theatre
• Beat the heat with a glass of beer at the best pubs in Chennai – Pasha, Gatsby 2000, Blend, etc.
• Take a Night Safari trip to Madras Crocodile Bank
• Visit the water parks in Chennai – MGM Dizzee World, Kishkinta Theme Park, MGM Dizzee World, etc.
• Enjoy a ‘cool’ time at VGP Snow Kingdom
• Go shopping or catch a movie at the air-conditioned shopping malls in Chennai – Phoenix Marketcity, Express Avenue Mall, Fountain Plaza, etc.
• Celebrate Aruvathimoovar Festival (March-April)

Chennai in Monsoon (July to October)

Monsoon arrives in Chennai with torrential rain and strong winds, providing respite from the summer heat. You can expect heavy downpours between July and early September. The post-monsoon or the retreat of monsoon (September and October) is the time when the city experiences occasional rainfall due to the tropical cyclones emerging in the Andaman Islands located not far away.

While the peak monsoon season is not considered to be the best time to visit Chennai, you can definitely plan your trip in the post-monsoon months.

• Maximum Temperature: 32 to 36 degree Celsius
• Minimum Temperature: 24 to 26 degree Celsius

Also check couple friendly hotels in Chennai

Things to Do in Chennai in Monsoon

Sightseeing in the rain-washed city can be a pleasant affair, but only if you are not caught in a sudden downpour. The top things you can do in Chennai during the monsoon season include:

• Explore the waterfalls near Chennai – Tada Waterfalls (90 km), Kailasakona (90 km), Talakona (190 km), etc.
• Go on one-day getaways from Chennai – Mahabalipuram (60 km), Kanchipuram (75 km), Pondicherry (150 km), etc.
• Visit the museums in Chennai – Government Museum, Fort Museum, Vintage Camera Museum, etc.
• Enjoy the rains with a cup of filter coffee and great South Indian food at the best restaurants in Chennai – Dakshin, Annalakshmi, Junior Kuppanna, Kumarakom, etc.
• Pay your respect at the temples in Chennai – Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Parthasarathy Temple, Kalikambal Temple, etc.
• Visit the beautiful churches in Chennai – Armenian Church, Mary’s Church, Velankanni Church, etc.
• Head to Fun City for Pool Gaming and Bowling
• Attend the Hindu Metroplus Theatre Fest (around August)
• Celebrate Aadi Festival and enjoy the shopping deals during the period (around August)

Chennai in Winters (November to February)

Winters in Chennai are pleasant but the temperature does not drop really low. It means the city experiences warm winters as compared to most other states in India. The season sets in by November and extends till February. January is the coolest month of the season. The city experiences cyclone and depressions during this season due to its proximity to the Bay of Bengal.

Occasionally, the Northeast monsoon hits Chennai between October and December, resulting in rainfall. During the daytime, a cool breeze blows in from the sea. Even though the days are bright and sunny, the weather remains pleasant. All these factors come together to make winter the best season to visit Chennai.

• Maximum Temperature: 19 to 22 degree Celsius
• Minimum Temperature: 29 to 31 degree Celsius

Also Read: Places to Visit in South India

Things to Do in Chennai in Winters

Winters are the best time to experience Chennai and its culture in its full splendor. From sightseeing to picnics to street shopping, the list of things to do in Chennai in winters is exciting. Here’s a list:

• Explore the tourist attractions in Chennai
• Plan a day at the picnic spots in and around Chennai – Semmozhi Poonga, Muttukadu Lake, Covelong, etc.
• Spend a day at the Guindy National Park or Arignar Anna Zoological Park
• Explore the lakes in and around Chennai – Puzhal Lake, Korattur Lake, Chembarambakkam Lake, etc.
• Visit the mighty forts in Chennai – Fort St. George, Fort Geldria, Vellore Fort, etc.
• Enjoy the street foods in Chennai
• Go Fishing at Barracuda Bay
• Try some adventurous things to do in Chennai – Scuba diving, surfing, obstacle courses, etc.
• Celebrate Karthikai Deepam (November-December) and Pongal (January)
• Attend the Madras Music Season (December), Margazhi Festival of Dance and Music (mid-December to mid-January), and Natyanjali Dance Festival (February-March)

Regardless of the time of your visit, you won’t have a dull moment in this lovely city. So, now that you know everything about the best time to visit Chennai, go ahead and plan your itinerary.

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Best time to visit Chennai , India

Our verdict

The best time to visit Chennai is October-November

In the summer months, temperatures tend to get to a maximum of around 36℃ (97℉). In the winter, temperatures can get down to 23℃ (73℉) around January.

If you want to get the most out of your time visiting Chennai, or you’re just afraid of the dark, the days in May are usually the longest between sunrise and sunset. November sees the most amount of rain in a month if you’re ok with chancing getting drenched, so if you’re looking to stay dry, visit in February instead.

Learn everything you need to know to help you decide when to go to Chennai below, and don’t forget to use the awesome travel tools we know and love to help you find the best deals and make booking your vacation a breeze!

Quick links: Fast facts / Seasons / Average temperatures / Monthly climate / FAQs / Map

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Chennai seasons

Before you continue, it’s important to know when the seasons are in Chennai as they might be different to yours depending on where in the world you’re travelling from. Chennai is in the Northern Hemisphere, so the seasons fall during these months:

Average temperatures in Chennai

If the temperature is a big factor for you to help you decide when to visit, the chart below shows the average minimum and maximum temperatures in Chennai for each month side-by-side so you can easily see the difference in weather throughout the year. To see the temperatures in both Celsius (°C) and Fahrenheit (°F), hover or tap the shaded boxes on the graph.

Chennai climate by month

If you already have a rough idea about which months you might want to travel, the section below shows a detailed breakdown of the climate in Chennai for each month so you can see if it all suits your wants and needs. Scroll down, or use the quick menu below to jump to your preferred month.

Chennai in January

• Average temperature: 25℃ (77℉)
• Average high temperature: 27℃ (81℉)
• Average low temperature: 23℃ (74℉)
• Average humidity: 72%
• Average sunny days: 22 days
• Average rainfall: 11mm (0") over 6 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Chennai in January, make sure you pack t-shirts and light clothing.

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Chennai in February

• Average temperature: 26℃ (79℉)
• Average high temperature: 29℃ (83℉)
• Average low temperature: 24℃ (75℉)
• Average humidity: 71%
• Average sunny days: 24 days
• Average rainfall: 6mm (0") over 3 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Chennai in February, make sure you pack t-shirts and light clothing.

Chennai in March

• Average temperature: 28℃ (82℉)
• Average high temperature: 31℃ (88℉)
• Average low temperature: 26℃ (78℉)
• Average sunny days: 27 days
• Average rainfall: 7mm (0") over 4 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Chennai in March, make sure you pack t-shirts and shorts.. It stays warm all day and night.

Chennai in April

• Average temperature: 30℃ (86℉)
• Average high temperature: 33℃ (91℉)
• Average low temperature: 28℃ (82℉)
• Average sunny days: 26 days
• Average rainfall: 10mm (0") over 4 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Chennai in April, make sure you pack t-shirts and shorts.. It stays warm all day and night.

Chennai in May

• Average temperature: 32℃ (90℉)
• Average high temperature: 35℃ (95℉)
• Average low temperature: 30℃ (85℉)
• Average humidity: 67%
• Average rainfall: 23mm (1") over 6 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Chennai in May, make sure you pack t-shirts and shorts.. It stays warm all day and night.

Chennai in June

• Average temperature: 32℃ (89℉)
• Average high temperature: 34℃ (93℉)
• Average low temperature: 29℃ (85℉)
• Average humidity: 63%
• Average sunny days: 12 days
• Average rainfall: 41mm (2") over 16 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Chennai in June, make sure you pack t-shirts and shorts.. It stays warm all day and night.

Chennai in July

• Average temperature: 31℃ (87℉)
• Average low temperature: 28℃ (83℉)
• Average humidity: 65%
• Average rainfall: 50mm (2") over 17 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Chennai in July, make sure you pack t-shirts and shorts.. It stays warm all day and night.

Chennai in August

• Average high temperature: 32℃ (90℉)
• Average humidity: 69%
• Average sunny days: 10 days
• Average rainfall: 92mm (4") over 20 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Chennai in August, make sure you pack t-shirts and shorts.. It stays warm all day and night.

Chennai in September

• Average temperature: 29℃ (85℉)
• Average high temperature: 32℃ (89℉)
• Average low temperature: 27℃ (81℉)
• Average sunny days: 6 days
• Average rainfall: 98mm (4") over 23 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Chennai in September, make sure you pack t-shirts and shorts.. It stays warm all day and night.

Chennai in October

• Average temperature: 29℃ (84℉)
• Average low temperature: 27℃ (80℉)
• Average humidity: 73%
• Average sunny days: 8 days
• Average rainfall: 144mm (6") over 22 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Chennai in October, make sure you pack t-shirts and shorts.. It stays warm all day and night.

Chennai in November

• Average temperature: 27℃ (81℉)
• Average high temperature: 29℃ (84℉)
• Average humidity: 76%
• Average sunny days: 9 days
• Average rainfall: 213mm (8") over 18 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Chennai in November, make sure you pack t-shirts and light clothing.

Chennai in December

• Average temperature: 26℃ (78℉)
• Average low temperature: 24℃ (76℉)
• Average humidity: 75%
• Average rainfall: 102mm (4") over 15 days

What to pack: If you’re heading to Chennai in December, make sure you pack t-shirts and light clothing.

😎 When should I go to Chennai for the hottest weather?

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When is the best time to visit India?

Dec 13, 2023 • 7 min read

Whether you’re looking for the best festivals, to hit the beach, or trek between hill stations, let us help you plan your trip © ferrantraite / Getty Images

India is a country that’s almost a continent. From the sky-high peaks of the Himalayas to the waterlogged jungles of Kerala and the dry-as-a-bone deserts of Gujarat and Rajasthan , this enormous nation covers an astonishing variety of terrain. There’s always somewhere worth visiting no matter what the weather is doing.

The northern hemisphere winter – from December to March – is the optimum time to visit the vibrant cities and historic temples and forts of north India , while the rainy monsoon period from June to September is peak season in the dry mountains of Ladakh .

However, even at the height of the rainy season, there are plenty of good reasons to visit this remarkable nation – not least the festival calendar, which is packed year-round. Here’s our guide to the best times to come to India .

December to March is best for beach days, tiger safaris and temple trips

The peak season for tourism in India coincides with dry skies and warm but not baking temperatures in the plains – in other words, perfect traveling weather. The balmy, sunny days are ideal for visiting India’s teeming cities, and most of the country is ripe for exploration, though it can be frosty in the foothills of the Himalayas.

Even in the steamy south, humidity hovers at manageable levels and temperatures dip overnight, making it easier to sleep, though this is also the time for peak prices almost everywhere. Another hassle is the morning fog, which can disrupt air travel and other forms of transport in the northern plains.

December to March is also the sweet spot for lowland adventures. National parks are drier, there’s less greenery for wildlife to hide behind, and animals are more active for longer thanks to the lower temperatures. For a good chance of tiger sightings, head to Kanha , Bandhavgarh , and other national parks in the central plains.

In the hills, it’s a slightly different story. While there’s an undeniable magic to seeing Shimla dusted with snow, many hotels shut their doors for the winter, and mountain trails and roads over high passes become obstructed, including the main roads to Ladakh (though some hardy travelers still fly in for winter treks). A handful of hill towns in Kashmir , Himachal Pradesh , and Uttarakhand stay open for skiing and other winter sports.

December is a big time for Hindu marriage ceremonies – look out for  baraat (bridegroom’s processions) featuring a white horse, a nervous groom, and an ear-splitting marching band. Christian communities in Goa and parts of Kerala and the Northeast States hang up decorations in the lead-up to Christmas, and Christmas Day is celebrated with feasting and fireworks.

In January, all eyes are on Delhi for the pomp and circumstance of Republic Day on January 26 (don’t miss the army and police motorcycle stunt teams). The Hindu festival of Sankranti is celebrated in different ways across India, from special celebrations to honor cows in South India to mass kite-flying in Gujarat. (If you'd like to participate in kite-flying, you can help to avoid causing harm to birds and other wildlife by choosing a kite with a plain cotton – not synthetic – string and by avoiding early morning and evening when the birds are likely to be flying in great numbers.)

If you come in February, head to Jaipur for the cultured Jaipur Literature Festival , or Agra for Taj Mahotsav , a 10-day carnival of culture, cuisine and crafts featuring 400 artisans from all over India (and enough regional food to induce a curry coma). Alternatively, make for the hills and join Buddhist communities embracing Losar, the Tibetan New Year.

Other red-letter days on the calendar include the Hindu festival of Vasant Panchami in January or February, marking the arrival of spring. In February or March, you can attend Goa’s lively carnival; honor Lord Shiva at celebrations across the country for Maha Shivaratri; or join in the joyful mayhem as mountains of rainbow-colored powder are thrown around for the festival of Holi.

June to November is the best time to hit the Himalayas

India’s shoulder season means different things depending on where you go in the country. The plains are drenched by the monsoon rains from June to September, and Goa’s beach resorts become ghost towns, but backpackers and trekkers flood into the mountains, filling Ladakh’s lodges, tented camps, and yoga retreats.

This is the prime time for treks on India’s high-altitude trails, but roads and paths through the foothills turn into torrents, national park trails close, and views disappear behind swirling clouds. That might give an impression of a country besieged by rain, but it doesn’t rain all day every day; there’s still plenty to see and do, with bargain prices for accommodations and tours.

As the rains clear from September, tourism picks up in the plains and the foothills, but Ladakh closes down for the season, and public buses between Leh and Manali stop running. October and November are great times to visit almost everywhere else in India – prices remain below the peak, skies are clear and the trekking season gets underway in the foothills. This is also a great month to visit desert areas such as Rajasthan, which can be surprisingly green.

In June or July, Rath Yatra sees effigies of Lord Jagannath – Vishnu as Lord of the Universe – hauled through the streets on vast, colorful chariots, most famously in Puri in Odisha (Orissa). Buddhist festivals fill the gompas of Ladakh – Hemis Tsechu is a glorious spectacle, with costumed dances and the unfurling of a giant thangka (Buddhist painting) at Hemis Gompa .

August is jam-packed with festival action. Kerala’s exhilarating boat races take place on the second Sunday of August and there are patriotic flag-hoisting ceremonies and parades in Delhi on August 15 to celebrate India’s independence. Falling in August or September, Ganesh Chaturthi sees the ritual immersion of thousands of colorful idols of the elephant-headed god in Mumbai .

There’s more action in October and November, as Hindus honor Durga, the fearsome form of the mother goddess, most famously at Navratri and Durga Puja (celebrated enthusiastically in Kolkata and West Bengal). Many areas throw lavish celebrations for Dussehra, celebrating the victory of Hindu god Rama over demon-king Ravana and the triumph of good over evil (festivities are particularly colorful in Kullu and Mysuru ).

This is also the season for Diwali (Deepavali) , which brings fireworks and twinkling lights to towns and villages across India, and the Camel Fair in Pushkar , which attracts 200,000 people and 50,000 camels, horses, and cattle. Sikhs celebrate Nanak Jayanti – the birthday of Guru Nanak, founder of Sikhism – with prayers, kirtan (devotional singing), and processions, especially in Punjab and Haryana .

April to June is the best time to avoid crowds

India’s low season sees temperatures soaring to almost unbearable levels. By May, the lowlands feel like an oven, and locals wait eagerly for the cooling effect of the monsoon. Cities can be uncomfortably hot – sensible travelers head to the hill stations or stay close to the water on the coast. The Northeast is wet, but it’s peak season for visiting Sikkim and highland areas of West Bengal , including Darjeeling .

If you can handle the heat, tourists are thinner on the ground, making visits to popular sights such as Delhi’s Red Fort less hectic, and this is a great time for treks in the cooler foothills of the Himalayas. Accommodation prices are also low, though many beachside hotels in Goa close completely from May to September. If you happen to be in Maharashtra , you’re in for a treat as tasty Alphonso mangoes come into season.

Rain doesn’t halt the festival calendar. Mahavir Jayanti commemorates the birth of Jainism’s 24th and most important tirthankar (teacher and enlightened being), while Sikhs celebrate Vaisakhi (the solar new year) in the middle of April. Rama Navami is another big date as Hindus celebrate Rama's birth with processions and enactments of scenes from the Ramayana (one of Hinduism’s most sacred texts).

The Muslim holy month of Ramadan runs from approximately March 10 to April 9 in 2024. Some Muslim-owned businesses close during the day, and people fast from sunrise to sunset. The breaking of the fast at Eid al-Fitr is marked by feasting, and Muslim women adorn their arms with mehndi (henna designs). The birthday of Buddha (Buddha Jayanti) is celebrated with gusto in Bodhgaya and Tibetan Buddhist areas.

Understanding India’s festival calendar

While secular festivals in India follow the Gregorian calendar, most religious festivals follow lunar calendars, so the dates change every year. Muslim celebrations move forward by 11 days every year relative to the Gregorian calendar, and Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain festivals can fall in different months from year to year. Always check the dates of festivals before planning a trip – the Indian government has a calendar of the year's gazetted government holidays .

This article was first published Apr 8, 2021 and updated Dec 13, 2023.

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Best (and Worst) Times to Visit India 2024, Rainy Season?

Generally, the best time to visit India is from December to February , when it is warm during daytime and cool at night in most areas of India. December marks the beginning of the peak travel season with higher-priced accommodation and flights.

It starts to get hot from March and the temperature reaches its average high point of 45°C (113°F) in May. If you can bear the heat, traveling India from April to May, you can expect the benefits of smaller crowds as well as big promotions from hotels and airlines (usually 50% off).

India's rainy season starts from June and lasts until September . North India is less affected by downpours than central and southern parts. You could still enjoy a good experience if you visit north Indian destinations like Delhi, Agra, Jaipur and other Rajasthan areas. Many national parks are closed because of floods and landslides. Goa becomes a "ghost city", with few travelers and many beach resorts closed. Ladakh, located in the far north is cool, and little affected by the rainy season, and it starts to welcome its high travel time from June to August.

Rain starts to ease from the middle of September . In October, most areas of India have dry weather. Though it is still hot, it feels much more comfortable than in May. Traveling in October and November, you'll not be drenched, while enjoying better deals than in December-February.

• Best Times for Tiger Safari, Festivals, Low Price
• Worst Times to Visit India
• Travel Guide by Month

Best Times to Visit India for Tiger Safari, Festivals, Low Prices, etc.

Although most people consider the best time to visit India to be from December to February, India is a large country that contains many different climates with extremely different weather patterns. When you should visit India varies greatly depending on what/where you want to see, budget, and weather preferences.

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Best Time for Tiger Safari in India

For most comfortable weather, December to February are the best months to travel. You can enjoy clear skies and all kinds of outdoor activities in most of the country. It is also a good time for a tiger safari as the undergrowth is low and the animals are more active in cool weather.

Get some inspiration about  How to Plan an Affordable Luxury Trip to India .

Best Time for Mountain Hiking in India

If you're a mountain hiking lover, visiting Ladakh from June to August or doing a Himalayan trek from March to early June or from late September to November would be rewarding with cool weather and little rain.

• Himalayan mountains get extremely wet from late June to early September!
• The passes and roads in Ladakh are blocked by snow September to April.

Best Time for Festival Experiences in India

If you're interested in attending India's colorful festivals, Holi and Diwali are two most celebrated festivals in India. Holi is typically observed in March, occasionally in late February. 

• 8-Day Diwali Festival in India Golden Triangle Tour
• 11-Day India Holi Festival Tour

Best Time for the Cheap Price in India

April to June is the best time for the lowest prices in general. The heat prohibits many travelers (international and domestic) from traveling around India. You may find only a few visitors in the temples, and you can expect lower prices, with 30–50% off offered by many hotels and flights.

An Insider's Guide to the Best Time to Visit India for Good Weather With Better Prices : 

• March, October, and November could be seen as middle ground periods. During these months, you don't need to bear extreme hotness like in April to June, while you can expect less crowding and more affordable prices than in December to February.

Read more on  India Private Tour Packages for inspiration >>>

The Worst Times to Visit India

Strictly speaking, there is no worse time to visit India. No matter which month you travel, India has somewhere with suitable experiences that are not too negatively affected by the weather.

For first-timers to India, the travel routes usually focus on Delhi , Agra , and Jaipur (Pink City) with Varanasi , or Mumbai , Goa ,and Kerala in the south. With time permitting, you can also extend your trip to Jodhpur (Blue City), Udaipur (White City), and Jaisalmer (Golden City) in the western desert, Rajasthan . For these areas:

• If you cannot stand the burning hotness, avoid April to June .
• If you don't like heavy rain, avoid August. The monsoon will approach to India from June and fade away after September. August is the wettest month. But you can still find some hours for sightseeing during the rest of monsoon season as the rainfall might not last for several days.
• If you'd like to experience a desert camp in the western desert, avoid May and June as some resorts in the desert are closed because of the heat. Accommodations in city areas is still OK to stay in. The desert is a good destinations in rainy season as it's hardly affected.
• If you want to relax on the beach in Goa, avoid June to August as summer's big sea currents are not safe for swimming and many resorts will close.

Read further about 9-day itineraries  and 10-day options in India.

India Travel Guide by Month

Click the sign of each month to check the travel guide information.

Visiting India in January: Pleasant Weather

• Average temperature ranges : 7 to 20°C (46–68°F) in the north (Delhi, Agra, Jaipur), 20 to 30°C (68–86°F) in central and south India (Goa, Mumbai, Kelara)
• Key festivals : Bikaner Camel Festival, Republic Day (January 26th)

Many travelers from America and Europe come to India from the end of December to January to celebrate Christmas and New Year . January has pleasantly warm days and cool nights , which are great for outdoor activities. Though there might be some fog in early morning, January is generally good for traveling throughout India, except for the highlands and far-north mountain areas.

The weather in the south is much warmer than in the north in January. It's a great time to celebrate the New Year on beaches in Goa or join in a camel festival in the desert of Bikaner .

Read more on January Weather in India and the Best Plases to Visit >>>

Visiting India in February: Nice Weather

• Average temperature ranges : 10 to 25°C (50–77°F) in the north (Delhi, Agra, Jaipur), 18 to 30°C (64–86°F) in the center and south (Goa, Mumbai, Kelara)
• Key festival : Taj Mahotsav in Agra (February 18th to 27th)

Warmer than January and with less fog, the weather in February is still very comfortable for traveling in India .

If you visit Agra (home of the ultra-famous Taj Mahal) from February 18th to 27th , don't miss the Taj Mahotsav for its dizzying handicraft presentations, enchanting local dances, and tasty range of local foods. You'll get a real eye-opener. The festival is held in Shilpgram, 20 minutes' walking from the Taj Mahal . More details about best places to go in February in India >>>

Read more on February Weather in India and the Best Places to Visit >>>

Visiting India in March: Start of India's Hot Season

• Average temperature ranges : 16 to 32°C (61–90°F) in north India (Delhi, Agra, Jaipur), 25 to 33°C (77–92°F) in central and south India (Goa, Mumbai, Kelara)
• Key festival : Holi

Most of India starts to get hot from March. Many locals go to hill stations in the Himalayan foothills to escape the heat. It is still comfortable to visit popular cities like Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur and enjoy cooling down in the sea in Goa .

Hotels and airlines begin to offer some deals to attract more customers .

March is the month when the Festival of Colors (Holi) is held. People throw vibrant colors over each other to celebrate the triumph of good over evil, welcome spring, and pray for good luck. It is celebrated all over India. The top places include Udaipur, Pushkar, Hampi, Jaipur, and Goa. For more, see our Holi Travel Guide for India .

Read more on March Weather in India and the Best Places to Visit >>>

Visiting India in April: Hot, but Better than May

• Average temperature ranges : 21 to 37°C (70–99°F) in the north (Delhi, Agra, Jaipur), 25 to 33°C (77–91°F) in the center and south (Goa, Mumbai, Kelara)
• Key festival : Eid al-Fitr

It begins to heat up in April, but it is still pleasant enough for outdoor activities in popular destinations. The rainy season hasn't come and animals become more conspicuous looking for food, which makes it a good time for safaris in national parks . To avoid the heat, you can plan activities for early mornings and evenings and enjoy pool time and a nap at noon.

April is not a high season for travel in India . Popular tourist sites such as the Taj Mahal will not be as packed. It will give you more of a chance to leisurely explore the sites and get some great photos without huge crowds in your shots.

There might be a peak period around Sunday , April 9th in 2023 for the Easter break . Book an Easter trip to India at least 3 months ahead for more affordable prices.

Read more on April Weather in India and the Best Plases to Visit >>>

Visit India in May: Hottest Month

• Average temperature ranges : 26 to 42°C (79–108°F) in north India (Delhi, Agra, Jaipur), 26 to 34°C (77–93°F) in its center and south (Goa, Mumbai, Kelara)
• Key festival : Buddha Jayanti

With May comes the hottest month in India . In the Golden Triangle area (Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur), temperatures reach 45°C (113°F) on some days. If you don't want to miss Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur in your first trip to India, lower prices and smaller crowds are the rewards for braving the heat of May. Check the best places to avoid the heat >>>

Mumbai and Goa in central India and Kerala in south India have comparatively cooler weather. You can seek coolness in Himalayan mountain areas in the northeast or relax in the tea plantations and palm jungles of Kerala in the south . From the end of May, the southwest monsoon from the Indian Ocean starts to bring some rain to southern parts of India.

Read more on May Weather in India and the Best Plases to Visit >>>

Visiting India in June: Start of the Rainy Season

• Average temperature ranges : 28 to 39°C (82–102°F) in the north (Delhi, Agra, Jaipur), 25 to 34°C (77–93°F) in central and south India (Goa, Mumbai, Kelara)
• Key festivals : There are no major festivals in June. Some villages hold celebrations for the coming of the rain, which is essential for their harvests.

After the hot season, India experiences monsoon weather that lasts from June to September across most of the country. Heavy downpours are seen nearly every day in June in the south and middle of India (Kerala, Goa, Mumbai, etc.). As the monsoon starts from the south and spreads north gradually, Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur may still get some sunny, dry days in early June .

Because rainfall is so high in this season, some of the lowland areas and rivers, like around Mumbai and Kalkata, experience flooding and many national parks close at this time . Check with us whether a tiger safari is available if you are planning to visit India in the rainy season.

Monsoon Season in India: When It Is, 5 Best Places to Go >>>

Ladakh in the far north welcomes its best season . It is nearly unaffected by the monsoon. It's great to relax there, while taking in mountain views, hiking, or exploring Buddhist monasteries, as it starts to get nicely warm from June.

Read more on June Weather in India and the Best Plases to Visit >>>

Visiting India in July: Rainy, but Less hot

• Average temperature ranges : 26 to 34°C (79–93°F) in north India (Delhi, Agra, Jaipur), 25 to 30°C (77–86°F) in the center and south (Goa, Mumbai, Kelara)
• Key festival : Guru Purnima

India gets cooler in July. Although the likelihood of heavy rain means it is not a good time to visit some areas of India, certain cities in North India have dry and cool weather, making them the perfect places to visit. Leh in Ladakh is especially beautiful in July . The Rajastan area in west India, including Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur and Jaisalmer, gets much less rain as well .

If you travel in July, you will meet less crowding as most domestic family groups will have gone back home when India's summer vacation ends (usually lasting from mid-April to mid-June). In order to attract more clients in the low travel season, promotions from hotels and flights are still common .

Read more on July Weather in India and the Best Plases to Visit >>>

Visiting India in August: Wettest in the North

• Average temperature ranges : 25 to 34°C (77–93°F) in north India (Delhi, Agra, Jaipur), 24 to 30°C (75–86°F) in central and south India (Goa, Mumbai, Kelara)
• Key festivals : Raksha Bandhan, Independence Day

August is usually the wettest month in cities in north India, such as Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. In contrast to them, cities in middle and south India, like Mumbai and Goa, get less rain than in August.

The unstable sea currents mean Goa is still not a safe destination for swimming and sea sports .

Visiting Rajasthan in west India, you will meet less rain.

Because of high river levels, August is a good time to take a Ganges River cruise between Varanasi and Patna.

August will be the last good month to travel to Leh in Ladakh as the mountain routes will start to be snow-blocked from September until April.

Read more on August Weather in India and the Best Plases to Visit >>>

Visiting India in September: End of the Rainy Season

• Average temperature ranges : 24 to 34°C (75–93°F) in the north (Delhi, Agra, Jaipur), 24 to 30°C (75–86°F) in central and southern India (Goa, Mumbai, Kelara)
• Key festival : Ganesh Chaturthi Festival

September is the last month of the rainy season in India . Although the northeast monsoon will bring some rain to south India in November and December, especially the states of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Kerala, this rain is much less heavy than from June to September.

Beach resorts start to reopen in September with the easing of the rains . The Himalayan trekking routes are dry enough for you to come, and the trekking high season lasts from September until November.

Most hotels still haven't raised their prices (fully). Less crowds, less rain, and low prices are the rewards for traveling in September .

Read more on September Weather in India and the Best Plases to Visit >>>

Visiting India in October: Sunny Days and Cool Evenings

• Average temperature ranges : 19 to 34°C (66–93°F) in the north (Delhi, Agra, Jaipur), 24 to 32°C (75–90°F) in central and south India (Goa, Mumbai, Kelara)
• Key festival : Diwali — the Festival of Lights

October is a month of transition from the rainy season to the cool season. Because of this, October's weather is very pleasant with sunny days and cool evenings . There are still some rainy days in south India, but only showers that don't affect travel much.

As there is little rain and tour prices are not as high as in peak times starting from December, traveling in October is a great time if you're looking for an affordable price and sunny but not very hot days .

The biggest festival in India, Diwali , is celebrated in the latter part of October or early November. The whole country will be immersed in the festival atmosphere of lights and candles.

Read more on October Weather in India and the Best Plases to Visit >>>

Visiting India in November: Start of the Cool Season

• Average temperature ranges : 10 to 29°C (50–84°F) in north India (Delhi, Agra, Jaipur), 22 to 33°C (72–91°F) in its center and south (Goa, Mumbai, Kelara)
• Key festival : Pushkar Camel Fair in Rajasthan

The weather in November is pleasant in most areas of India. The rainy season ends officially and the cool days begin .

Comfortable weather attracts more visitors to this incredible country. We recommend that you book your hotels and tickets at least two months in advance. Check India tours for inspiration >>>

Read more on November Weather in India and the Best Plases to Visit >>>

Visiting India in December: Cool and Sunny

• Average temperature ranges : 9 to 23°C (48–73°F) in the north (Delhi, Agra, Jaipur), 20 to 32°C (68–90°F) in central and southern areas of India (Goa, Mumbai, Kelara)
• Key festivals : Christmas (December 25th) and New Year's Eve (December 31st)

Because of the pleasant weather and the last month of the year to use up vacation time, December is India's busiest travel time . Many travelers come to India for an incredible warm Christmas and a New Year getaway . Try to make your bookings at least three months in advance for reasonable prices and flight availability.

Read more on December Weather in India and the Best Plases to Visit >>>

Visiting India with Asia Highlights

Want to explore all of the incredible destinations India has to offer while avoiding extreme heat and heavy rains? Here at Asia Highlights, we can help you navigate India's changing seasons and help you pick your perfect time to see the famous sites you want to see most. Some India tours are recommended below for inspiration.

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Discover The Best Time To Visit Kasauli Himachal Pradesh

Kumar Utkarsh Updated: May 06, 2024 5:12 AM IST

Best Time Visit in Kasauli,Himachal Pradesh

The quiet town of Kasauli in India holds special magic for those who want to get away from the noise and rush of city life. It is situated in Solan district, Himachal Pradesh, and offers scenic beauty all around, with greenery spread throughout the year. But the real spirit of Kasauli can be felt only when you visit it at the right time according to your personal preferences and interests.

1.March to May: Spring Delight

With the goodbye of winters, Kasauli gets engulfed by lively spring colors brought by blooming flowers, freshened--up plants,plants, etcetera,etcetera, while having pleasant temperatures. Starting in March,March, when temperature range between 10 C and 25 C,, this season is apt for nature walks, trekking,trekking, or exploring British colonial architecture still standing in some parts of town. The climate stays mild,mild, letting outdoor activities go unaffected by extreme cold or hotness that may cause discomfort.

April and May are also known as the best months to escape from summer's scorchingheat, which prevails elsewhere in India,India, because here it remains between 15 C and 30C,, thus offering a cool respite amidst aa tranquility--filled environment. During these days,days, one can take leisurely strolls on the Gilbert the Gilbert Trail or any other winding pathway, hitch panoramic views at Sunset Point,Point, or just relax among numerous parks and gardens with with lush greens all around.

2.June to August: Summer Serenity

Though summers bring little warmth,warmth, ranging from 20 C to 30 to 30 C but they also introduce monsoons in Kasauli,Kasauli, which add more charm by rejuvenating natural beauty through intermittent rains that occur during this time only. Those misty--covered hills with shimmering raindrops falling upon them coupled with dense vegetation make the ambience so magical that it suits well for romantic escapades as well as soul--searching trips alone.

Some people might find monsoon inconvenience due to occasional landslides and slippery roads, but actually,actually, these are opportunities offered by MotherMother EarthEarth herself while showing us her best side without making much effort from our sides. For adventurists,adventurists, there can be nothing better than trekking along nearby tracks such as Kasauli-Jabli or Kalka-Kasauli, which give breathtaking views over valleys and forests around; aa lower temperature and less rush also makemake it a budget-a budget-friendly time for those who want to explore Kasauli at their own pace.

3.September to November: Autumn Bliss

This is the time when the monsoon the monsoon departs,departs, leaving behind a multicolored a multicolored autumn in Kasauli during the September the September November months. The climate is pleasant,pleasant, with a minimum temperature of temperature of around 15 C and a maximum a maximum around 25 C, C, which which gives good scope for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Various cultural festivals take place here during the autumn, the autumn season itself in order to bring people closer to local traditions and customs. One such event is the Kasauli the Kasauli Rhythm Blues Festival,Festival, held every year in October,October,which attracts which attracts music lovers from all parts of the country the country with with various national and international bands performing live on stage throughout the festival the festival duration,duration, whereas another one is the Kasuali Literary Festival,Festival, organized during November and aimed at celebrating literary legacies associated with the region, the region, besides providing a platform a platform for writers, poets,poets, intellectuals,intellectuals, etcetera who participate in participate in different kinds of kinds of workshops along with along with meaningful conversations about literature,literature, art,art, culture,culture, society,society, politics,politics, etcetera.

4.December to February: Winter Wonderland

December to February at Kasauli is a winter wonderland for those who love snow--covered peaks and cozy nights. Despite the subzero ,temperatures, which fluctuate between 0 C and 10 C, there is a welcoming warmth in the atmosphere that invites people to engage in outside activities or sit by the fireside with hot chocolate.

During this season,season, it snows heavily in Kasauli, a sight one must see. People can also go snow trekking nearby in places like Narkanda and Solang Valley,Valley, where skiing or snowboarding are also available. Moreover, due to this quietness around here as compared to other times of the year, the year, it becomes an ideal destination point for couples looking forward to romanticism or families desiring to bond to bond over bonfires during the winter the winter.

In conclusion, all--year-round beauty coupled with peace characterizes Kasauli as a tourist attraction site. Springtime brings about vibrant colors while monsoons create misty showers, but autumn paints everything golden, including leaves on trees. Winter turns this place into a snowy paradise, so one cannot miss visiting such a picturesque hill station located within India's territory. Pack your bags now!

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• Topics News">Discover The Best Time To Visit Kasauli Himachal Pradesh
• Topics News">Himachal Pradesh
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15 Best Places to Visit in India, According to Travel Experts

F rom the alpine meadows of Kashmir to the palm-fringed beaches of Goa, these are some of the subcontinent’s most enchanting destinations.

As a former longtime Delhiite and frequent traveler to India, people often ask me what the country is like. I never know how to respond, for trying to sum up a nation as vast and diverse as India feels impossible. So, instead, I asked a few experts for their insights.

“If you visit India, you feel you have visited several countries, as every part is different,” says Mohd Shafi Billo, an inbound tour operator who specializes in helping international travelers plan their trips to the country. “It’s an exceptional destination, thanks to its culture, history, and inclusiveness of different people from different faiths, and it has everything to offer, from forts to mausoleums, wildlife tours to mountain adventures.”  

Shoba Rudra, founder and partner at hospitality consultancy Rare India , agrees. “The country is living a dynamic moment in history, ever-changing,” she says. “What's constant, however, is the vibrant culture lived through its festivals, cuisine, heritage, crafts, and performing arts.”

While it would take years to see it all, India is an approachable destination — if you can narrow things down. With that in mind, here are 15 of the best places to get you started on your sojourn to the subcontinent.

Stretching along the southernmost part of India’s Malabar Coast, the tropical state of Kerala entices visitors with its marshy backwaters, which most people visit on overnight houseboat adventures. These popular cruises “showcase lush landscapes and peaceful villages, and [give visitors] a glimpse into local life amid tranquil waters and picturesque surroundings,” says Billo. While the backwaters are a star attraction, the state offers much more to explore, from the tea plantations of Munnar, known for its cool climate and seemingly endless rolling hills, to the historic city of Kochi, celebrated in equal measure for its rich coastal history and contemporary art scene . The beaches aren’t too shabby, either. “North Kerala is also famous, as the Malabar Coast is where the spice trade flourished,” says Rudra. “The coastal area is picturesque and this region is still unexplored.”

On the opposite end of the country from Kerala, Kashmir offers entirely different — but equally captivating — landscapes. With its alpine climate, evergreen trees, and snowy winters, Kashmir is often likened to a mini Switzerland . Famed 13th-century Sufi poet Amir Khusrau once proclaimed in Farsi, “If there is a paradise on earth, it is this,” and he may have been onto something. At the heart of it all is Srinagar, Kashmir’s capital city, which is known for its elegant gardens and watery centerpiece, Dal Lake. “Highlights include staying on a houseboat or taking a shikara [traditional Kashmiri boat] ride,” says Billo, who hails from the area. Don't leave without indulging in wazwan , an opulent, meat-heavy feast that can feature up to three dozen dishes in one sitting. 

Occupying a high-altitude plateau in the northernmost reaches of India, Ladakh is characterized by otherworldly landscapes and big skies, punctuated by palatial stupas and monasteries. Many visitors come to Ladakh’s capital, Leh, during the short summer tourist season, but this surreal region offers plenty more to experience beyond the city. Billo suggests visiting the Nubra Valley, an isolated part of the old Silk Road that’s only accessible by crossing Khardung La, one of the world’s highest motorable passes. “The valley offers a glimpse into Ladakh's unique geography and cultural diversity with monasteries, quaint villages, and apricot orchards,” says Billo. The region is also rich with unusual wildlife, from elusive snow leopards to the scaled-down Bactrian camels that originated in the steppes of Central Asia.

Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

On the banks of the sacred Ganges River, the holy city of Rishikesh has held a place in the hearts of spiritually minded travelers — both from India and abroad — for generations. It’s the self-proclaimed “yoga capital of the world,” with a mix of traditional ashrams (spiritual rest houses) that cater largely to Hindu pilgrims and yoga centers that attract international visitors with teacher-training courses and meditation retreats. If you’re not into yoga, you’ll still find plenty to do here. Popular activities include visiting the ruins of the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s ashram (dubbed the Beatles Ashram in honor of its most famous former residents) to whitewater rafting adventures on the mighty Ganges. It’s also a great place for a wellness getaway, and nearby Ananda in the Himalayas was voted one of Travel + Leisure readers' favorite international spas in 2023.

Auroville, Tamil Nadu

If you’re looking for a place that’s unlike anywhere else in India — or, frankly, the world — head to the intentional community of Auroville in South India. This UNESCO-recognized global township was founded in the 1960s with the goal of "realizing human unity," beyond the illusory divisions of creed or nationality, and it's home to generations of residents from around the world. Many visitors come for an hour or two, just long enough to view Auroville’s spiritual center — the golden, dome-shaped Matrimandir . However, it’s worth sticking around a bit longer to get a feel for what the community is about. As Akash Kapur, who grew up in Auroville and authored " Better to Have Gone " and " India Becoming ," puts it: "Come to Auroville if you're interested in alternative societies, sustainable living, or spirituality, but try not to just drop in for a few hours (as many do), and instead spend some time here, really getting to know the people and their work. The community rewards sustained immersion."

Andaman Islands

Although most people associate the crystalline waters of the Andaman Sea with Thai island getaways, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in this tropical region are under Indian control. This little stretch of paradise is full of gorgeous shorelines, but most visitors devote their vacations to the island of Swaraj Dweep (formerly known as Havelock). The most popular beach on the island is Radhanagar Beach , which offers just over a mile of white sand sandwiched between tropical jungle and warm, transparent waters. Getting to this remote island requires a bit of gumption: You'll need to fly from the Indian mainland to Port Blair on South Andaman Island, then catch a ferry or charter a seaplane for the final stretch. While visitors are welcome on many islands in the chain, a few — including secluded North Sentinel Island — are off-limits. 

While many travelers see India’s capital as a jumping-off point for visiting further-afield destinations, it’s worth sticking around for a while to truly appreciate what Delhi has to offer. There’s certainly never a dull moment in this busy metropolis, whether you’re shopping for handicrafts at one of its numerous markets or learning about medieval and Mughal history at one of its three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Humayun's Tomb, Qutb Minar, and Red Fort. Although Delhi is undeniably rambunctious, it also has a quieter, more peaceful side that you can find amidst the trees and 15th-century tombs of Central Delhi’s Lodi Gardens or in the quiet interiors of the Baháʼí Lotus Temple.

Taj Mahal, Agra, Uttar Pradesh

Many travelers to India put the 17th-century Taj Mahal at the top of their list. This white marble mausoleum is easily India’s most recognizable structure — and it’s one of the New Seven Wonders of the World . This popular attraction also has a romantic backstory. “This iconic symbol of love is renowned for its architectural beauty, intricate marble work, and the captivating story behind its creation by emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal,” notes Billo. The bodies of the emperor and his wife remain interred in the Taj to this day. 

Jaipur. Rajasthan

The capital of Rajasthan and one-third of North India’s popular Golden Triangle tourist route (which also includes Agra and Delhi), Jaipur is a must-visit for those who love architecture and shopping. “The Pink City, as it's nicknamed, offers a rich cultural heritage, stunning [landmarks] like Amber Fort, vibrant bazaars, and intricate handicrafts,” says Billo. Many of Jaipur's key attractions are found in the historic walled part of the city, which became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019. Highlights include Jantar Mantar (a collection of oversized — and fully functional — astronomical instruments dating to the 17th century) and Hawa Mahal, or Palace of the Winds, a honeycomb-shaped palace designed with tiny windows that allowed air to flow freely through its interior.

Jodhpur, Rajasthan

Dubbed the Blue City because of the cerulean-colored buildings that extend for miles through the oldest part of town, Jodhpur has long attracted travelers eager to explore the ramparts of the larger-than-life Mehrangarh Fort. It’s also home to the grandiose Umaid Bhawan Palace , which made headlines in 2018 when Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas tied the knot there. While Jodhpur’s beautiful, regal architecture is reason enough to visit, there’s more to the city than massive forts and grand palaces. “The area around the Toorji ka Jhalra stepwell in the old city is fun to explore,” says hotelier Sapna Bhatia, owner of Kaner Retreat and Jodhpur-area native. “For nature enthusiasts, there’s the Rao Jodha desert park near Mehrangarh Fort.”

Udaipur, Rajasthan

T+L readers' favorite city in Asia and second favorite city in the world , Udaipur very much fits the bill of a fairy tale destination. Nicknamed the City of Lakes, thanks to its seven lakes, this gorgeous destination is home to some of India's finest luxury hotels plus historic whitewashed palaces, including the magnificent City Palace, an 11-palace complex that houses hotels, a huge museum with an impressive collection of European crystal, and a royal residence. A short boat ride from the palace lies the 18th-century Taj Lake Palace, an opulent palace-turned-hotel in the middle of Lake Pichola. It’s a quick drive from The Oberoi, Udaivilas , a purpose-built palatial hotel with onion-domed cupolas and a moat-like swimming pool that directly connects to some of the rooms. 

If you’re looking for a less-frequented, but no less amazing, alternative to more touristed states such as Rajasthan, consider Gujarat. “Under-explored but culturally rich, this state in India is a tapestry of festivals, textiles, architectural heritage, communities, and landscape,” says Rudra. Gujarat was also the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, who led the Salt March, one of his most famous acts of peaceful protest, through the state in 1930. Rudra suggests visiting the National Salt Satyagraha Memorial , which “honors the activists through murals, installations, sculptures, art, and related film.” It's also worth checking out the Kutch district, known for its distinct metal bells , which were originally used for keeping track of livestock and are now popular as decorative wind chimes.

Kaziranga National Park, Assam

The northeast Indian state of Assam is home to a treasure for wildlife enthusiasts: Kaziranga National Park . This expansive, UNESCO-listed wildlife refuge near the borders of Bangladesh and Bhutan has the largest population of Indian one-horned rhinoceroses on the planet, providing a home to roughly 2,000 of these massive beasts. Although rhinos are the star attraction on park safaris, all sorts of animals live here, including tigers, elephants, gibbons, sloth bears, and a small number of endangered Ganges River dolphins. 

Historic, glitzy, and positively gargantuan, Mumbai (formerly known as Bombay) is easily one of India’s most cosmopolitan destinations. This city by the sea is the nation's financial and entertainment capital, and while you’re unlikely to rub shoulders with Bollywood stars here, you're sure to see a lot of impressive attractions in very little time. Take a boat out to Elephanta Island to explore fifth– and sixth–century rock-hewn cave temples, marvel at the grand Indo-Saracenic architecture at Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus , or see thousands of clothes hanging out to dry at Dhobi Ghat, the world's largest open-air laundry. Then, head to the sleek neighborhood of Bandra West, where many of Mumbai’s best restaurants and hotels are located, including Taj Lands End, voted T+L readers' favorite city hotel in India in 2023.

India’s smallest state, Goa, is arguably its top beach destination, where long days of swimming and sunbathing turn into longer nights of partying on the sand. While Goa has been known as a hippie haven since the 1960s, it's started to shed its reputation in recent decades. It’s still very much a party state, though it also draws in families and couples in search of sea and sun, sans nightlife. It’s a great place for history buffs as well, with numerous seaside forts and UNESCO-recognized churches that were built when Goa was under Portuguese rule. And while the destination has always been loved for its fiery dishes that combine traditional Konkani ingredients with Portuguese influences, it has also emerged as a culinary hot spot , where a new generation of chefs is showcasing everything from Japanese yakitori to jackfruit tamales.

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E-passes mandatory to visit Ooty, Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu from May 7 to June 30, 2024

Times of India TIMESOFINDIA.COM / TRAVEL NEWS , TAMIL NADU / Updated : May 6, 2024, 12:58 IST

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Madras High Court mandates e-passes for Ooty and Kodaikanal, aiming to regulate tourism and alleviate traffic congestion. The exemption for locals, overseen by Justices D Bharatha Chakravarthy and N Sathish Kumar, effective from M … Read more

Madras High Court mandates e-passes for Ooty and Kodaikanal, aiming to regulate tourism and alleviate traffic congestion. The exemption for locals, overseen by Justices D Bharatha Chakravarthy and N Sathish Kumar, effective from May 7 to June 30, 2024. Read less

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Madras High Court mandates e-passes for Ooty and Kodaikanal, aiming to regulate tourism and alleviate traffic congestion. The exemption for locals, overseen by Justices D Bharatha Chakravarthy and N S...