Aurangabad Weather Guide: Seasonal Climate & Travel Timing

Aurangabad (Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar) features a hot semi-arid climate (Köppen BSh), characterized by high temperatures and a distinct seasonality that shifts between extreme dryness and tropical monsoon rains. Located on the Deccan Plateau at an elevation of approximately 580 meters (1,900 feet), the city experiences significant diurnal temperature variations, particularly in the drier months.

Seasonal Trends and Climate Behavior

The Hot Season (March to May)

As the dry season peaks, temperatures rise rapidly. By May, the hottest month, daytime highs frequently reach between 39°C (102°F) and 43°C (109°F).

• What it feels like: The heat is intense and "bone-dry," with relative humidity dropping as low as 15–20%. Dust and heat haze are common.
• Daily Rhythm: Locals typically retreat indoors by 11:00 AM, as the sun feels sharp and oppressive. Cooler evening breezes offer some relief, but nights remain warm.

The Monsoon Season (June to September)

The arrival of the Southwest Monsoon in early June brings a dramatic transformation. While Aurangabad receives less rainfall than coastal Maharashtra (averaging around 730–860 mm annually), the landscape turns remarkably green.

• Typical Weather: Rainfall often occurs in short, heavy bursts rather than continuous drizzle, though July and August can see prolonged overcast skies.
• Phenomena: The city is prone to high-intensity thunderstorms during the monsoon onset. Humidity jumps to over 80%, making the air feel "muggy" and heavy even when temperatures drop to the high 20s°C.

The Post-Monsoon / Autumn (October to November)

This transitional phase sees the withdrawal of the monsoon. While the rains taper off, the ground remains moist.

• Climate: Days are warm and sunny, while nights start to cool down significantly. This period is often characterized by very clear skies and bright sunlight.

The Cool Season (December to February)

Winter is widely considered the most pleasant time in Aurangabad. Dry, cool air from the north flows over the plateau.

• Temperature Spans: Daytime highs stay around a comfortable 28°C (82°F) to 30°C (86°F), but nighttime temperatures can drop sharply to 10°C (50°F) or lower.
• What it feels like: Crisp and refreshing. The lack of humidity makes the sun feel warming rather than burning during the day.

Local Microclimates and Variations

The nearby Ellora and Ajanta Caves can experience slightly different weather due to their hilly terrain and basalt rock formations. These sites can feel several degrees hotter than the city during peak summer as the dark rock absorbs and radiates heat. During the monsoon, the ravines surrounding the caves exhibit localized mist and higher humidity compared to the urban center.

Historical Context and Anomalies

Aurangabad has a history of extreme temperature spikes; records show the mercury has touched 46°C (115°F) in extreme years. Conversely, during severe cold waves originating from the Himalayas, winter nights have historically plummeted near 5°C (41°F). The region is also susceptible to the effects of tropical cyclones forming in the Bay of Bengal or Arabian Sea; while rarely hit directly, these can cause unseasonal heavy downpours in late October or November.

Local Adaptation

Locals adapt to the semi-arid environment through architectural choices, such as high ceilings and thick stone walls in older structures to insulate against heat. In the summer, the use of "khus" (vetiver) mats soaked in water is a traditional method to cool the air. Diet also shifts seasonally, with cooling beverages like solkadhi or buttermilk favored during the scorching pre-monsoon months.