Best Time to Visit Karnataka
What is the best time to visit Karnataka?
October to April is the best time to visit Karnataka. Winters are the best time to go on a wildlife safari or attend the grand Mysore Dussera. Owing to its proximity to the western coast, Karnataka is quite humid during Summers from April to June. While coastal regions are hotter, hill stations are mild and colder. Infact the best time to visit Karnataka depends on the time of the year and the destination you're travelling to. Some regions receive heavy rainfall during the monsoon season from July to September but if you want to go trekking in places like Antargange, or see the beautiful Jog Falls there's never a better time than Monsoons.
Peak Season(November - March)
Weather: Pleasant and mild, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C. Coastal regions may experience slightly higher temperatures, ranging from 20°C to 35°C.
Popular destinations & Activities: Coorg (Kodagu): Explore lush coffee plantations, misty hills, and cascading waterfalls.; Mysore: Visit magnificent Mysore Palace, vibrant markets, and witness Dasara festivities.; Hampi: Discover ancient ruins and rock-cut temples of UNESCO World Heritage Site Hampi; Gokarna and Udupi: Relax on pristine beaches known for golden sands and azure waters.
Note: Plan your itinerary accordingly and book accommodations in advance due to crowds at popular tourist attractions and festivals. Carry sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun, especially in coastal areas. Exercise caution while swimming in the sea and follow lifeguard instructions for your safety.
Off Season (May - September)
Weather: Temperatures soar between 25°C to 35°C across most regions, with coastal areas such as Mangalore and Karwar experiencing heightened humidity. However, hill stations like Coorg and Chikmagalur offer a reprieve with cooler temperatures averaging 20°C to 30°C.
Popular destinations & Activities: Coorg, Chikmagalur, and Kodagu offer lush greenery, coffee plantations, and waterfalls, providing a refreshing escape from the heat. Enjoy sunbathing and beachside dining at the pristine beaches of Gokarna, Karwar, and Udupi.
Explore Karnataka's rich heritage at historical landmarks like Hampi, Belur, and Halebidu, renowned for their stunning architecture and ancient ruins. Celebrate Ugadi, Navarathri, Mysore Dasara, and join the vibrant celebrations of Ganesha Chaturthi across Karnataka.
Note: Heavy rains in coastal parts of Karnataka could cause road blocks and delay. Peak summer months are scorching, hence be prepared with sunscreen and drink plenty of water. Pre-booking accomodation is advised especially for popular destinations like Coorg.
Shoulder Season (October, April)
Weather: Weather is usually mildly pleasant in October to hot and humid by April. In October, they range from 20°C to 30°C and by April, temperatures rise slightly to 25°C to 35°C, indicating the beginning of warmer weather as summer approaches.
Popular destinations & Activities: Coastal Karnataka offers pristine beaches in Gokarna, Karwar, and Udupi, perfect for sunbathing and water sports. Explore the lush hill stations of Coorg, Chikmagalur, and Sakleshpur in the Western Ghats, ideal for trekking amidst scenic landscapes. Discover Karnataka's rich cultural heritage at historical sites like Hampi, Belur, and Halebidu, boasting ancient ruins and magnificent temples.
Note: While October is relatively dry, be prepared for sudden showers, especially if traveling to coastal or hilly areas prone to rainfall. As temperatures begin to rise in April, stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunscreen, hats, and lightweight clothing.
More about Best Time to Travel to Karnataka
Karnataka in Summer (March - June)
Rainfall: While most parts of Karnataka remain dry during summer, coastal areas like Mangalore and Karwar receive some rainfall due to the southwest monsoon, which typically begins in June.
Popular Destinations & Activities:
Coorg, Chikmagalur, Sakleshpur, Biligiri Ranga Hills, Agumbe, Kemmanagundi are some of the hill stations in Karnataka that one must not miss during the season. which is perfect for trekking, safaris, nature walks, wildlife exploration and camping. The rivers nearby are frequently visited for activities like fishing, boating, river rafting, angling etc. while the waterfalls offer a pleasant respite from the scorching summer heat.
- Coorg: Known for its lush coffee plantations, waterfalls, and trekking trails.
- Chikmagalur: Famous for its scenic beauty, coffee estates, exploring waterfalls like Hebbe Falls, visiting Kemmanagundi hill station., and Mullayanagiri, the highest peak in Karnataka.
- Hampi: A UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its ancient ruins and temples. Exploring ancient ruins, rock climbing, bouldering, cycling tours.
- Gokarna: Beach hopping, water sports like snorkeling and surfing, trekking to beaches like Paradise Beach and Half Moon Beach.
- Mysore: Known for its rich history, magnificent palaces, and vibrant culture. Visiting Mysore Palace, exploring Brindavan Gardens, bird watching at Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary.
- Ugadi: Kannada New Year celebrated with cultural events and feasting.
- Vairamudi Festival: Held at Melkote Temple in April, featuring religious rituals and processions.
- Mahamastakabhisheka: Celebrated once every 12 years in Shravanabelagola with grand ceremonies and rituals.
- It's advisable to book accommodations in advance, especially in popular tourist destinations, as summer attracts a significant number of tourists.
- Travelers should stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and carry hats or umbrellas to protect themselves from the sun.
- It's essential to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially when exploring outdoor attractions.
- Additionally, be cautious of sudden weather changes, particularly in hilly areas, and follow safety guidelines for activities like trekking and water sports.
Karnataka in Monsoon (July - September)
In the hill regions, such as Coorg and Chikmagalur, temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C during monsoon. In the low-lying areas like Bangalore and Mysore, temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C.
Rainfall:
Karnataka experiences heavy rainfall during monsoon, typically starting in early July and continuing until September.
The coastal plains like Mangalore and Udupi receive moderate to heavy rains and are constantly humid with the humidity level going as high as 70%. On an average, the coastal areas receive an annual rainfall of 3456 mm while the southern and northern regions like Hampi and Badami receive rainfall between 750 mm and 1300 mm.
Early July is known to be the time when the temperature and the humidity soars, but as the cooling South-West monsoon winds approach, the heat comes crashing down. The district of Udupi receives the highest rainfall while the Chitradurga and Bijapur districts receive the least.
Popular destinations & Activity:
One can choose to trek the Western Ghats, explore the waterfalls such as Jog Falls and Sivanasamudram, rivers and lakes or visit the hill stations and go on long soothing nature walks.
- Coorg: Explore lush green coffee plantations, visit waterfalls like Abbey Falls, and go trekking in the Western Ghats.
- Chikmagalur: Enjoy the scenic beauty of Mullayanagiri, trek to Kemmanagundi, and visit coffee estates.
- Jog Falls: Witness the majestic Jog Falls at their peak flow during monsoon.
- Gokarna: Relax on pristine beaches like Om Beach and Paradise Beach, and indulge in water sports.
- Hampi: Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hampi, and witness its ancient ruins amidst lush greenery.
- The Sree Vithappa Fair is held either in September or October.
- The 10-day Ganesh Chaturthi festival is celebrated with grand processions and cultural events in September.
- Accommodation may require pre-booking, especially in popular tourist destinations.
- Prices may vary depending on demand, with some places offering discounts during monsoon.
- It's advisable to carry rain gear and waterproof clothing.
- Be cautious while trekking or visiting waterfalls due to slippery paths.
- Check weather forecasts before planning outdoor activities.
- Be mindful of road conditions, as heavy rainfall may cause landslides and roadblocks.
- Stay informed about local conditions and heed any warnings issued by authorities.
Karnataka in Winter (October - Februrary)
Popular destinations & Activities:
Explore attractions like the rocks at Yana, the National Parks and Historical Monuments & Temples, trek in the Western Ghats and check out the waterfalls in Sirsi. Beach lovers are sure to have a fabulous time too by the seashores during the season or go cruising in the backwaters in Udupi. Water sports are also quite famous here, and adventure seekers often visit the west coast or rivers for surfing, swimming, river rafting, snorkelling and scuba diving.
- Coorg (Kodagu): Known for its lush coffee plantations, Coorg offers opportunities for trekking, birdwatching, and exploring its scenic waterfalls such as Abbey Falls and Irupu Falls.
- Chikmagalur: Another coffee-growing region, Chikmagalur, boasts picturesque landscapes, serene homestays, and trekking trails in the Western Ghats.
- Hampi: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hampi is famous for its ancient ruins, temples, and boulder-strewn landscapes, making it a haven for history buffs and photographers.
- Mysore: The cultural capital of Karnataka, Mysore, is renowned for its grand Mysore Palace, vibrant Dasara festival celebrations, and intricate silk sarees.
- Gokarna: A coastal town known for its pristine beaches, Gokarna offers opportunities for beach hopping, water sports, and exploring temples like the Mahabaleshwar Temple.
- Bangalore: Karnataka's capital city, Bangalore, offers a vibrant nightlife, eclectic dining scene, and attractions like Lalbagh Botanical Garden and Cubbon Park.
- Observed across the state, Makar Sankranti is celebrated with kite flying, traditional sweets, and cultural events.
- In October/ November, the Hampi Festival is celebrated every year for 3-days with great enthusiasm.
- The annual Dussehra event at the Mysore Palace is worth a visit during the time. Dasara features a procession of decorated elephants, cultural performances, and the lighting of the Mysore Palace. One can witness the traditional forms of dance and music during the festival.
- Rajyotsav Day is celebrated in November. It is a highly prestigious government awards are given away on this day.
- The Pattadakal dance festival, the Hoysala Dance Festival, Pongal, Makar Sankranti are celebrated in January.
- Travelers visiting Karnataka during winter should consider pre-booking accommodations, especially in popular tourist destinations, as it can get crowded during this time.
- It's advisable to carry warm clothing for cooler evenings, especially in hill stations.
- Additionally, travelers should stay updated on weather forecasts and road conditions, especially if planning outdoor activities or long journeys.
