Bareilly Weather Guide: Climate, Seasons, and Travel Tips

Bareilly experiences a humid subtropical climate, with scorching summers, mild winters, and a distinct monsoon season. Average highs range from 28 °C in January to 42 °C in May, while annual rainfall totals about 1,100 mm, mostly between June and September.

What is the overall climate of Bareilly?

Bareilly lies in the fertile Terai region of Uttar Pradesh, at an elevation of 173 m (568 ft). The city’s climate is classified as Cwa under the Köppen system, meaning a dry winter and a hot summer with a pronounced monsoon. Seasonal shifts are sharp: temperatures rise rapidly after the winter solstice, peak before the monsoon, and drop again as the rains retreat. Bareilly enjoys about 2,950 sunshine hours annually, with the clearest skies in February and March.

Average temperature by month

The table shows that the coolest month is January, with an average low of 6 °C and a high of 28 °C. May and June are the hottest, regularly exceeding 40 °C during daytime, while night‑time temperatures stay above 25 °C.

Rainfall patterns and monsoon season

Bareilly receives most of its 1,110 mm of precipitation during the southwest monsoon, which arrives in early June and withdraws by the end of September. July is the wettest month, averaging 300 mm of rain, while December and January together receive less than 10 mm. The monsoon brings high humidity—often above 80 %—and occasional thunderstorms.

When is the best time to visit Bareilly?

Travelers looking for comfortable weather should aim for the cool season, which runs from October through March. During these months daytime temperatures stay between 20 °C and 28 °C, and humidity drops to 40‑60 %.

Cool season (October–March)

• Pleasant daytime temperatures (20‑28 °C)
• Low humidity (40‑60 %)
• Clear skies; average 8‑9 sunshine hours per day
• Ideal for outdoor sightseeing and festivals such as Diwali (October/November)

Hot season (April–June)

• Daytime highs 38‑45 °C
• Humidity climbs above 70 %
• Limited outdoor activities after noon
• Good for early‑morning travel or indoor cultural sites

How does humidity affect daily life in Bareilly?

Humidity in Bareilly spikes above 80 % during the monsoon, making the apparent temperature feel 5‑7 °C hotter than the thermometer reading. Residents mitigate the heat with cotton clothing, afternoon siestas, and widespread use of ceiling fans or air‑conditioned spaces. Nighttime humidity remains moderate (60‑70 %) in the cool season, providing a comfortable sleep environment.

What are the typical sunrise and sunset times throughout the year in Bareilly?

In January, sunrise occurs around 07:15 IST and sunset at 17:20 IST, giving roughly 10 hours of daylight. By June, sunrise shifts to 05:10 IST and sunset to 19:35 IST, extending daylight to about 14 hours and 25 minutes. Daylight length gradually shortens after the summer solstice, reaching its minimum in December (approximately 10 hours).

What are the extreme weather records for Bareilly?

The highest temperature ever recorded in Bareilly was 48.2 °C on 19 June 2022, while the lowest was 0 °C on 5 January 2004. In July 2015, the city experienced its heaviest 24‑hour rainfall, totaling 185 mm, which caused localized flooding.

How does Bareilly’s climate influence local agriculture?

The region’s fertile alluvial soil and monsoon rains support the cultivation of wheat, rice, and sugarcane. Wheat is sown in October–November, taking advantage of the cool, dry winter, and harvested in March before the heat intensifies. Rice requires standing water and is planted in June, relying on the monsoon’s 300‑mm average rainfall in July. Sugarcane, a long‑duration crop, benefits from the warm temperatures and consistent moisture throughout the year.

Is air quality a concern in Bareilly during certain seasons?

Air quality generally improves during the monsoon because rain and strong winds disperse particulate matter. However, during the pre‑monsoon months of April and May, temperature inversions can trap dust and pollutants, raising the AQI to ‘moderate‑unhealthy’ levels (150‑200). Residents mitigate exposure by using masks and limiting outdoor exercise in the late afternoon.

Travel tips for coping with Bareilly’s weather

1. Carry a lightweight, breathable shirt for the hot months and a warm jacket for evenings in winter.
2. Keep an umbrella or raincoat handy from June to September.
3. Stay hydrated; a litre of water per hour is advisable when temperatures exceed 35 °C.
4. Use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 during the dry season, as UV index often reaches 9‑10.
5. Check local forecasts before planning outdoor events, especially during the monsoon.

In summary, Bareilly’s weather is characterized by a hot, humid summer, a brief but intense monsoon, and a mild, dry winter. Understanding these patterns helps visitors pack appropriately, schedule activities, and enjoy the city’s cultural attractions year‑round.

Cultural festivals aligned with Bareilly’s climate

Many of Bareilly’s most vibrant celebrations are timed to take advantage of the pleasant weather. The Diwali festivities in October–November coincide with the cool, dry season, making evenings ideal for illuminated processions and outdoor fairs. Rakhi in August falls during the early monsoon; families often gather under temporary pavilions, and the occasional rain adds a festive atmosphere. The Uttarayan kite‑flying festival in January benefits from steady breezes and clear skies, drawing hobbyists from across the region.

Transportation considerations in different seasons

• Summer heat (April‑June): Road surfaces can soften, so drivers should maintain lower speeds and check tyre pressure frequently.
• Monsoon (June‑September): Heavy downpours may cause waterlogging on smaller streets; using higher‑ground routes or public buses equipped with rain‑proof seating is advisable.
• Cool season (October‑March): Fog is uncommon, but early mornings can be chilly; public trains run on schedule with minimal delays.

Impact of climate change on Bareilly’s weather patterns

Recent studies indicate that Bareilly is experiencing a gradual rise in average temperatures—approximately 0.2 °C per decade—alongside more erratic monsoon onset dates. This shift has led to:

1. Longer heatwaves extending into early October, affecting crop yields.
2. Increased frequency of intense, short‑duration rain events, raising flood risk in low‑lying neighborhoods.
3. Higher nighttime humidity, which can exacerbate heat‑related health issues.

Local authorities are responding by expanding green‑belt zones, improving drainage infrastructure, and promoting heat‑resilient building designs to mitigate these emerging challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best month to experience the monsoon in Bareilly?

July offers the most intense monsoon experience, with an average rainfall of around 300 mm and humidity often above 80 %. The month also provides lush green landscapes, though occasional thunderstorms can disrupt travel.

How should I dress for Bareilly’s summer weather?

Wear loose, breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen, a wide‑brimmed hat, and sunglasses. Light-colored clothing reflects heat, and a portable water bottle helps prevent dehydration during temperatures that regularly exceed 40 °C.

Are there any weather‑related festivals in Bareilly?

Yes, the city celebrates the Kite Festival (Makar Sankranti) in January when the weather is cool and dry, providing ideal wind conditions for kite‑flying across the skies.

Do I need to worry about flooding when traveling in July?

Localized flooding can occur during heavy July downpours, especially near low‑lying areas and riverbanks. Check real‑time flood alerts and avoid walking through water‑logged streets to stay safe.