Mumbai Weather

Bordering the Arabian Sea and located on the west coast of India, Mumbai, formerly known as Bombay, India’s largest and most populous city features typical tropical monsoon climate. It keeps hot nearly all year around and 4 seasons can be observed due to the influence of the monsoon. The hot season from March to May is the hottest time of the year with the highest temperature of over 40℃ (104℉). Mumbai generally receives the most rainfall between June and September in the rainy season, more than 300mm each month. The most comfortable time to visit Mumbai is the cool season from December to February. However, even in the coolest months of the year, the average temperature generally hovers between 25-30℃ (77-86℉), contributing to warm and balmy weather. October to November is the post-monsoon season, a transition season with sharply decreasing rainfall and gradual rising temperature.              
 

In general, the best time to visit Mumbai is the cool season from December to February when the weather is pleasant and not too hot. The daily temperature typically ranges between 18-32℃ (64-90℉). During the period, the rainfall is also sparse, very ideal for visitors to take in the beauty of the vibrant city. Of course, this is also the high travel season of Mumbai. There is a large number of tourists and travel costs also reach a peak level. 

It’s also a good choice to visit Mumbai during the essential festival periods, such as Ganesh Chaturthi, Dussehra, Diwali, and Holi, when you can dive deep into the Indian culture.    

Characterized by the tropical monsoon climate, Mumbai roughly has 4 seasons: the cool season or winter starting from December to February; the hot season or summer between April and June; the rainy or monsoon season from June to September; and the post-monsoon season from October to November. In fact, the so-called winter is also considered the milder summer as there are no real chill days. 

The cool season generally remains pleasant, sunny and dry, without too much rainfall and the temperature is moderate. The average high temperature generally averages between 30℃ (86℉) and 32℃ (90℉) while the average low temperature stays around 20℃ (68℉). That is why this season is also called the milder summer because it is not cold at all. This season also sees relatively low humidity of 57-69% and very little monthly rainfall less than 100 mm, thus making it the most favorable time to travel around. The famous Elephanta Festival which happens between January and February and Kala Ghoda Arts Festival in February are also big draws. Visitors should book hotels and flights in advance as this is the hot travel season. Pack some light summer clothes for your day trip while an overcoat should be prepared for cold nights.      

The temperature starts to rise in March and it reaches an unbearable level in May. Though the average temperature just ranges between 21-34℃ (70-93℉), its highest temperature frequently soars over 40℃ (104℉). The humidity also increases a lot, to around 70%, making people feel muggy and sweltering. There is almost no rain at all during these months. Considering these factors, it is not so recommended to visit Mumbai in this season. However, the most colorful festival in Mumbai, Holi is celebrated in this period. If you want to experience it, just go with good preparations. Generally, the travel cost falls a lot after entering the hot season, except during the festival period.

From June to September, a large amount of rainfall can be witnessed, and the precipitation usually is between 300-800mm monthly. Much rainfall also brings down the temperature a little. Most times the temperature stays between 25-30℃ (77-86℉). The humidity also climbs up somehow, to around 80%. If you are going to visit Mumbai in the monsoon season, preparing rain gear and mosquito repellent is very necessary. The streets in Mumbai may be flooded and wearing shorts and sandals is recommended. Traffic may also be affected seriously and heavy downpours can also cause delays and cancellations of flights, trains and long-distance buses. However, the Ganesh Chaturthi Festival occurring in August or September is an interesting event. It is held to celebrate the birthday of the elephant-headed god and it is widely considered the grandest festival in the city.         

These two months are in fact transition months. When the monsoon goes away, the rainfall decreases sharply and the monthly average precipitation drops below 100 mm. The heat is on again in October, and the temperature averages between 28-34℃ (82-93℉). However, though a little hot, the weather is not as baking as that in the hot season. Generally, it could be an ideal time to travel to Mumbai.