Best Time to Visit Chennai
The best months to visit Chennai are Jan, Feb, Mar. Here is the full monthly breakdown.
Photo: Ethan Robertson / Unsplash
Best Months: Jan, Feb, Mar
These months offer the best balance of comfortable temperatures and low rainfall for visiting Chennai. Expect highs of 28°C to 31°C to 32°C with relatively dry conditions.
Warmest Month
June
36°C high
Coldest Month
January
22°C low
Driest Month
February
1 rain days
Wettest Month
November
25 rain days
Monthly Weather
January
High: 28°C / Low: 22°C
5 rain days
February
High: 31°C / Low: 22°C
1 rain days
March
High: 32°C / Low: 24°C
4 rain days
April
High: 34°C / Low: 27°C
5 rain days
May
High: 35°C / Low: 27°C
14 rain days
June
High: 36°C / Low: 28°C
13 rain days
July
High: 34°C / Low: 27°C
21 rain days
August
High: 34°C / Low: 26°C
23 rain days
September
High: 34°C / Low: 26°C
24 rain days
October
High: 31°C / Low: 25°C
24 rain days
November
High: 29°C / Low: 24°C
25 rain days
December
High: 28°C / Low: 24°C
16 rain days
Tourist Seasons in Chennai
Peak Season
January, February, March
- +Best weather conditions
- +Most activities and events
- -Higher prices and larger crowds
- -Book accommodation well in advance
Shoulder Season
April, December
- +Good weather, fewer tourists
- +Better value for accommodation
- +More authentic local experiences
- ~Some attractions may have reduced hours
Off Season
May, June, July, August, September, October, November
- +Lowest prices of the year
- +No crowds at attractions
- -Weather may be less favourable
- -Some seasonal businesses may close
Month-by-Month Breakdown
| Month | High | Low | Rain Days | Season |
|---|---|---|---|---|
January★ | 28°C | 22°C | 5 | Peak Season |
February★ | 31°C | 22°C | 1 | Peak Season |
March★ | 32°C | 24°C | 4 | Peak Season |
April | 34°C | 27°C | 5 | Shoulder Season |
May | 35°C | 27°C | 14 | Off Season |
June | 36°C | 28°C | 13 | Off Season |
July | 34°C | 27°C | 21 | Off Season |
August | 34°C | 26°C | 23 | Off Season |
September | 34°C | 26°C | 24 | Off Season |
October | 31°C | 25°C | 24 | Off Season |
November | 29°C | 24°C | 25 | Off Season |
December | 28°C | 24°C | 16 | Shoulder Season |
Season Timeline
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best month to visit Chennai?
What is the weather like in Chennai?
When is peak tourist season in Chennai?
Is Chennai worth visiting in winter?
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Chennai
Make the most of your trip by booking popular tours and activities in advance.
Chennai Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Chennai on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
View Tour Details
Chennai Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Chennai with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
View Tour Details
Best of Chennai: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Chennai's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
View Tour Details
Day Trip from Chennai: Scenic Excursion
Escape Chennai for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
View Tour Details
Chennai Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Chennai's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
View Tour DetailsWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
Top 3 Areas to Stay in Chennai
Liveliest areas for nightlife, culture, and entertainment
Mylapore
The cultural heart of Chennai, brimming with ancient temples, vibrant markets, and traditional arts.
Our top picks in Mylapore
Offers a blend of modern comfort and traditional charm with excellent dining options.
Book NowA luxurious landmark hotel known for its grandeur and extensive amenities.
Book NowCentrally located with contemporary rooms and a rooftop pool offering city views.
Book Now
Nungambakkam
A commercial and residential hub with a mix of modern offices, shopping centers, and heritage buildings.
Our top picks in Nungambakkam
A premier luxury hotel offering impeccable service, elegant rooms, and fine dining.
Book NowOpulent hotel known for its palatial architecture, luxurious suites, and sophisticated ambiance.
Book NowServiced apartments offering a home-like experience with hotel amenities, ideal for longer stays.
Book Now
Besant Nagar (Elliot's Beach)
A relaxed, upscale beachside neighborhood with trendy cafes, boutiques, and a pleasant promenade.
Our top picks in Besant Nagar (Elliot's Beach)
Stylish and modern hotel known for its vibrant design and excellent amenities.
Book NowOffers a tranquil escape with spacious rooms and a serene environment near the beach.
Book NowWell-appointed rooms and a good location for exploring the city, with several dining options.
Book NowWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Found your hotel in Chennai?
We search 30+ sites including members-only platforms like Secret Escapes and Voyage Privé. Most people save 14-23%.
More Chennai Travel Guides
Plan Your Perfect Chennai Trip
Tell us what you love and we'll build a personalised day-by-day itinerary with the best spots, tours, and hotels. Completely free.