Coorg, or Kodagu, is defined by its tropical monsoon climate, heavily influenced by its position in the Western Ghats. Sitting at an average elevation of 3,840 feet, it avoids the extreme heat of the Indian plains, offering a landscape that transitions between misty, sun-drenched, and rain-soaked.
The Daily Rhythm
Regardless of the season, Coorg experiences a significant diurnal temperature variation.
- Morning Transition: Fog and mist are frequent early in the day, especially near coffee plantations. This humidity often burns off by mid-morning as the sun warms the valleys.
- Mid-Day Heat: Even in summer, temperatures rarely become oppressive. The thick forest canopy and plantation shade act as natural cooling agents, though the humidity can rise before the arrival of the monsoon.
- Evening Cooling: Once the sun sets, the mercury drops rapidly. In winter, this can lead to a "bone-chilling" damp cold, while in summer, it provides a crisp, refreshing evening.
Seasonal Trends
Winter (October to February)
This is the peak visual season for Coorg. The air is crisp and clear after the monsoon rains. Temperatures typically range from 10°C to 25°C.
- Late October/November: Characterized by clear sapphire skies and vibrant greenery.
- December/January: The coldest months. Night temperatures can occasionally dip below 10°C in higher valleys like Madikeri. Mornings are often heavy with white mist, locals describe this as the "Scotland of India" effect.
Summer (March to May)
As the rest of India heats up, Coorg remains a sanctuary. Temperatures hover between 20°C and 35°C.
- March: The coffee blossom season. If a "blossom shower" (brief pre-monsoon rain) occurs, the plantations are covered in white flowers, releasing a jasmine-like fragrance.
- April/May: The warmest months. Humidity increases, leading into the monsoons. Afternoons can feel muggy, but the shade of the forest remains comfortable.
Monsoon (June to September)
Coorg is one of the wettest places in Karnataka. The region receives between 2,500mm and 3,500mm of annual rainfall, most of it during these months.
- The Incessant Rain: It is rarely a light drizzle; the monsoon here is vigorous and continuous.
- The Look & Feel: The landscape turns a neon green. Waterfalls like Abbey and Mallalli reach their peak intensity. However, the air is constantly damp, and mold/moss can grow on surfaces within days.
Microclimates and Regional Variations
Coorg’s terrain creates distinct weather pockets:
- Madikeri vs. Kushalnagar: Madikeri is the highest point and significantly cooler and rainier. In contrast, Kushalnagar (to the east) is lower and drier, often feeling several degrees warmer.
- Windward vs. Leeward: The western regions (near the Kerela border) face the full brunt of the Arabian Sea winds, receiving much higher rainfall than the eastern slopes.
Local Experiences and Phenomena
- The Coffee Blossom Showers: Locals eagerly await the first rains in March or April. These are not just weather events but economic ones, as they trigger the coffee plants to bloom.
- Leech Season: During the monsoon, the wet leaf litter becomes home to land leeches. Locals often use tobacco or salt as a traditional deterrent when walking through estates.
- Adaptation: You will notice traditional Coorg homes (Ainmanes) often have high ceilings and sloped roofs to handle the massive water runoff and maintain air circulation during the humid months.
Historical Context
Historically, the Coorg monsoon was predictable and steady. However, the last decade has seen a shift toward more "erratic" extremes. In 2018 and 2019, the region experienced unprecedented torrential rainfall leading to significant landslides. Travelers should note that while the monsoon is beautiful, the district administration occasionally restricts travel to certain hilly areas during peak August rains for safety.