Travel time: Year-round
Haridwar, the "Gateway to the Gods," sits in the plains of Uttarakhand at the final point where the holy river Ganges leaves the Shivalik foothills of the Himalayas. This specific geography—nestled between the mountains and the Indo-Gangetic plains—creates a temperate yet varied subtropical climate. Visitors experience clear distinctions between a hot summer, a heavy monsoon, and a crisp, occasionally freezing winter.
As spring transitions into summer from late March, temperatures rise rapidly. By May and June, Haridwar experiences its peak heat, often reaching highs between 36°C (97°F) and 44°C (111°F). During this period, the air is dry, and the sun can be intense. However, humidity begins to climb toward the end of June as the monsoon approaches, making the heat feel increasingly heavy and sticky.
The monsoon season brings dramatic changes, with July and August typically being the wettest months. Haridwar receives heavy tropical Rainfall—often exceeding 500mm in July alone. The river Ganges swells during this time, and the surrounding Shivalik hills turn a vibrant, lush green. While the rain offers a respite from the extreme heat, the humidity levels remain high, frequently leading to an "oppressive" feel during the daytime breaks between showers.
Winter is arguably the most distinct season in Haridwar. Starting in October, the air becomes cool and clear. Mid-winter (December and January) can be surprisingly cold, with daytime highs around 20°C (68°F) and nighttime lows dipping to 4°C (39°F) or occasionally lower. This season is marked by thick morning fog that rolls off the Ganges, creating a mystical atmosphere over the ghats before the sun breaks through in the afternoon.
In Haridwar, the day usually begins with a noticeable chill or dampness due to the proximity of the river.
Beyond the thermal readings, the weather in Haridwar is defined by its relation to the river. The water of the Ganges remains cold year-round, as it is fed by glacial melt. This creates a microclimate along the riverbanks where the air can feel several degrees cooler than in the inland parts of the city.
In the winter, the "wet cold"—a combination of low temperatures and high humidity from the river—can feel piercing. In contrast, the summer heat is a "baking" heat, though the evening breeze provides a natural cooling effect that you won't find in the more land-locked cities of northern India.