Mangalore Weather Guide: Tropical Monsoon Climate Explained

Mangalore (Mangaluru) possesses a vibrant tropical monsoon climate, characterized by high humidity year-round and a dramatic shift between its wet and dry phases. Located on the Arabian Sea coast and backed by the Western Ghats, the city is a theater for some of the most intense rainfall in India.

Typical Weather Patterns

The city’s weather is largely governed by its maritime proximity and the mountain range to its east. For most of the year, Mangalore is governed by heat and moisture.

• The Dry Phase (December to April): The skies are generally clear with abundant sunshine. Humidity, while present, is at its lowest during December and January, making this the most accessible time for visitors.
• The Wet Phase (June to September): This is the city's defining season. As the wind direction shifts to the southwest, moisture-laden air hits the coast and is forced upwards by the Western Ghats, resulting in torrential, often non-stop rainfall.

Seasonal Trends

Summer (March to May)

Mangalore’s summer is characterized by "sticky" heat. While temperatures range between 25°C and 35°C (77°F to 95°F), the high humidity can make it feel significantly hotter (heat index often exceeds 40°C). By May, the city begins to experience pre-monsoon thunderstorms, offering brief, dramatic relief from the sweltering afternoons.

Monsoon (June to September)

Mangalore is one of the wettest cities in India. In June and July alone, the city can receive over 1,000 millimeters (40 inches) of rain each month. During this time, the landscape turns a vivid, electric green. The