New Delhi Weather Guide
India
Best Time to Visit
October, November, February, March
Avoid
May, June (pre-monsoon extreme heat), July, August (monsoon flooding)
Climate
Semi-arid — extreme summers, cold winters, brief monsoon, severe air pollution
Annual Rainfall
27 inches (686 mm)
Overview
Delhi has extreme seasonal swings. Winters can frost; summers regularly hit 113°F (45°C). The monsoon (July–September) provides relief but also flooding. The city has severe air quality problems, particularly October–February when pollution peaks.
Seasonal Weather Breakdown
Winter
December–February
45–68°F
7–20°C
Cool and dry with clear sunny days — but Delhi's infamous air pollution peaks in winter. Fog is severe in January, disrupting flights. Temperature can dip to 35°F on cold nights.
- →Check AQI daily — Delhi winter air quality is frequently Hazardous
- →N95 masks are essential for outdoor activity
- →Fog delays at Indira Gandhi Airport are common in January
Spring
March–April
68–93°F
20–34°C
Brief and rapidly heating. March is pleasant; April becomes uncomfortably hot. Holi (March) is the year's most vibrant celebration.
- →Holi (March) — participate with old clothes
- →Visit outdoor monuments early morning before heat peaks
- →Quickly transitions from pleasant to brutal by late April
Summer
May–June
95–111°F
35–44°C
Extreme heat. Pre-monsoon dust storms (andhis) strike without warning. Heat stroke is a real risk. The city slows dramatically.
- →Only essential outdoor activity before 8 AM
- →Air conditioning is survival equipment
- →Dust storms can roll in in 15 minutes — seek indoor shelter fast
Monsoon
July–September
82–91°F
28–33°C
Heavy rainfall cools the city but causes flooding and waterlogging. Humidity surges dramatically. Some respite from the pre-monsoon heat.
- →Delhi streets flood easily — avoid low-lying areas in heavy rain
- →Humidity is more uncomfortable than the pre-monsoon dry heat
- →Post-monsoon (September–October) is Delhi's best window
What to Pack for New Delhi
- ✓N95 mask for winter air pollution
- ✓Sunscreen and hat in summer
- ✓Layers for cold winter mornings
- ✓Rain gear for July–September monsoon
New Delhi Weather FAQ
What is the best time to visit Delhi?
October and November offer the best weather after the monsoon — mild temperatures (70–84°F/21–29°C) and clear skies. February and early March are also excellent. Avoid May–June heat and peak winter pollution.
How bad is Delhi's air pollution?
Delhi regularly ranks as the world's most polluted major city. Winter months (October–February) are worst when PM2.5 levels frequently exceed 500 μg/m³ (WHO safe limit: 15). The Diwali fireworks period (October–November) and crop burning season are especially severe.
Neighborhoods in New Delhi
Each neighborhood in New Delhi has its own microclimate. Check real-time conditions below: