What May feels like in Kolkata
May sits between Kolkata's dry and wet seasons. Afternoons are very hot — outdoor plans work best early in the day or after sunset. Even after dark it stays hot and sultry. High humidity makes the heat feel heavier and sticky, especially on still afternoons.
Rain in Kolkata in May
Dry days are the exception, with rain on about every other day. Rainy days are intense, averaging about 9.3 mm (0.4 in) — downpours rather than drizzle. The yearly figure is similar, around 11.2 mm per wet day.
Daylight and sunshine in May
In mid-May, sunrise is at about 4:56 am and sunset at about 6:09 pm (local time) — 13 h 12 min of daylight. The days are stretching out — 33 min more daylight than mid-April. The sun is out for roughly 80% of those daylight hours, so skies are mostly clear.
How May compares to the rest of the year
In Kolkata's temperature order, May sits as the 2nd warmest month. Compared with April, afternoons are 0.9°C (1.6°F) cooler, with 68 mm more rain. June is cooler again. By June, typical highs are 33.2°C (91.8°F).
Who May suits
- Sightseeing: less ideal — midday heat makes long walks hard.
- Parks & outdoor: less ideal — afternoons are too warm to linger outside.
- Museums & indoor: a good choice — a cool break during the hottest hours.
Tips for visiting Kolkata in May
Rain Protection
A packable rain jacket saves the day on showery afternoons.
Sun Protection
Loose, breathable clothing plus sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat.
Quick questions
How warm is Kolkata in May?
Afternoons average 34.9°C (94.8°F) and nights about 26.8°C (80.2°F) — very hot by most people's standards. It is the 2nd warmest month of the year.
Does it rain a lot in Kolkata in May?
Quite a lot — 130 mm spread over about 14 days.
What should I wear in Kolkata in May?
Pack rain protection and sun protection. There is little need to change for the evening.
Is May or June better for visiting Kolkata?
May scores better on our climate ranking (#8 of 12 vs #12), rated Fair against Poor. June is cooler and has more rainy days.