Bandung Climate Guide: Year-Round Weather in the City of Flowers

Bandung, situated in a high-altitude basin approximately 768 meters above sea level and surrounded by volcanic mountains, offers a "tropical highland" climate that is significantly cooler than the sweltering coastal lowlands of Java. Known as the "Paris van Java," the city’s weather is defined by its moderate temperatures and its distinct wet and dry cycles.

Daily Rhythms and the "Goldilocks" Feel

The day in Bandung typically follows a predictable pattern. Mornings are often crisp and clear, with temperatures starting around 18°C to 20°C (64°F to 68°F). As the sun climbs, the temperature rises to a comfortable peak of 27°C to 29°C (81°F to 84°F) by mid-afternoon. Because of the elevation, the heat rarely feels oppressive or "sharp" as it does in Jakarta; instead, it is often tempered by a refreshing mountain breeze.

In the evening, the air cools quickly as heat escapes through the clear highland atmosphere. Locals often refer to the city having a "spring-like" feel year-round, where you can experience both a mild summer afternoon and a cool autumn evening within a single 24-hour window.

Seasonal Trends

Despite being tropical, Bandung observes two distinct seasons driven by the monsoon winds:

• The Dry Season (June to September): This is characterized by the "Bediding" phenomenon, where clear skies lead to significantly colder temperatures at night and in the early morning. August is typically the driest and windiest month, with cool air blowing in from the Australian continent. This season offers the highest number of sunshine hours (averaging 8 hours per day).
• The Wet Season (October to May): Rainfall peaks between November and March, with March often being the wettest month. During this period, humidity levels stay consistently high (82–86%). Rainfall usually arrives in the form of heavy afternoon thunderstorms that cool the air rapidly, often followed by a misty evening. Even during the wet season, it is rare for rain to persist the entire day.

Microclimates and Variations

Bandung’s topography creates significant weather variations within short distances:

• North Bandung (Lembang): Because it sits at a higher elevation (up to 1,300 meters), areas like Lembang are consistently 3°C to 5°C cooler than the city center. It is frequently shrouded in fog in the early mornings.
• The Urban Heat Island: The city center can feel notably warmer due to dense building materials and traffic. Moving just a few kilometers toward the northern hills provides an immediate, palpable drop in temperature.
• Mountain Shadows: Toward the late afternoon, the surrounding peaks cast long shadows over parts of the basin, causing some neighborhoods to cool down much earlier than others.

Historical Context and Local Adaptation

Historically, the Dutch colonizers chose Bandung as a mountain retreat specifically for its temperate climate, which allowed for the cultivation of tea and cinchona. Today, locals adapt to the weather through a culture of hot, spicy street foods (like seblak or cuanki) designed to warm the body during the chilly evenings.

While air conditioning is common in offices, many homes in the residential hills of North Bandung do not require it, relying instead on natural ventilation. The phrase "Bandung itu dingin" (Bandung is cold) is a point of local pride, and you will often see residents in light jackets or sweaters even during the day—a stark contrast to the light, breathable cotton worn in the rest of Indonesia.