Travel time: Year-round
Bangalore (Bengaluru) is world-renowned for its moderate, "spring-like" climate. Situated on the Deccan Plateau at an elevation of approximately 920 meters (3,000 feet), the city escapes the sweltering heat and oppressive humidity that plague many other Indian metropolitan areas.
Bangalore follows a tropical savanna climate, characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. However, its altitude tempers the tropical heat, resulting in a temperature range that typically stays between 15°C (59°F) and 34°C (93°F) year-round. While much of India experiences a traditional four-season cycle, Bangalore’s weather is often categorized into three primary phases: a dry, sunny winter; a warm, bright summer; and a long, refreshing monsoon season.
In Bangalore, the weather behaves with a predictable rhythm, especially during the dry months:
Widely considered the most pleasant time of year, winter brings clear blue skies and low humidity. Days are warm and sunny (25°C–28°C), while nights can dip to a chilly 12°C–15°C. In late December and January, the "winter chill" is most pronounced, and early morning fog can delay flights at the international airport.
The temperature begins to climb in March, peaking in April—the hottest month. While highs can reach 34°C–36°C, Bangalore rarely experiences the 40°C+ heatwaves seen in northern India. May often brings "Mango Showers"—heavy, short-lived afternoon thunderstorms that provide immediate relief from the heat and signal the transition to the monsoon.
Unlike the torrential, non-stop downpours seen on the coast, Bangalore’s monsoon is often a series of light to moderate intermittent showers.
Rapid urbanization has created a noticeable "Urban Heat Island" effect. Densely built-up areas like Koramangala or Whitefield can feel 2°C–3°C warmer than the lush, tree-lined neighborhoods of Jayanagar or the sprawling campus of the Indian Institute of Science. Proximity to the city’s remaining lakes (such as Hebbal or Ulsoor) also creates localized cooling and higher morning humidity.
Historically, Bangalore was a "pensioner’s paradise" because of its temperate weather. While climate change and urban growth have increased average temperatures over the last few decades, the city still experiences unique phenomena like the Mango Showers (pre-monsoon rains) and occasional cyclonic influences from the Bay of Bengal, which can cause unseasonal, persistent drizzling for 2–3 days in November or December.
Beyond the thermometer, Bangalore weather feels buoyant. Because the humidity is generally moderate, the heat doesn't "stick" to you in the summer, and the monsoon rain often feels refreshing rather than gloomy. For locals, the weather is a source of pride; they adapt by enjoying outdoor cafe culture year-round and watching for the shift in wind direction that signals the arrival of the rains. Even on the hottest April day, a shaded spot under a rain tree can feel perfectly comfortable.