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Weather in Rishikesh

Rishikesh has a subtropical climate moderated slightly by its position at the Himalayan foothills. Winters (October-March) are cool and dry with daytime highs of 19-29°C, the most comfortable season for the ghats and bridges. Summers (April-June) are hot, reaching the low-to-mid 30s°C, while the July-September monsoon brings the year's heaviest rain — July alone averages around 575mm — and a much stronger river current that closes the rafting season.

Current Weather Overview

Annual climate patterns and seasonal variations

Temperature

22°C - 30°C

Average

Humidity

High

Average

Wind Speed

Light to moderate

Average

Rainfall

293 mm (monthly avg)

Annual

Seasonal Overview

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Winter (Oct-Mar)

October to March

Cool, dry and clear — the most comfortable window for the ghats, bridges and ashram visits.

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Summer (Apr-Jun)

April to June

Hot and dry, with daytime temperatures climbing past 32-34°C; mornings and evenings remain more bearable.

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Monsoon (Jul-Sep)

July to September

Heavy rainfall (July alone averages ~575mm) and a much stronger Ganges current — river rafting closes for safety during this period.

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Post-Monsoon (Oct-Nov)

October to November

Transitional period with pleasant weather, clearing skies and moderate crowds — one of the best windows to visit.

Climate Details

Rishikesh sits at roughly 372m elevation on the Ganges as it exits the Himalayan foothills, giving it slightly cooler nights than the plains below. Annual rainfall totals around 1398mm, concentrated almost entirely in the July-September monsoon window.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Rishikesh is October to March, when daytime temperatures stay in a comfortable 19-29°C range — ideal for the ghats, bridges and ashram visits. Rafting itself is best avoided during the July-September monsoon, when the Ganges is closed to rafting for safety.

Weather Tips for Travelers

Carry a light jacket for evenings even in the warmer months — Rishikesh sits at the edge of the Himalayan foothills and cools quickly after sunset.
Avoid planning a rafting trip during July-September; the Ganges runs too high and fast for safety and most operators suspend trips.
October to March is best for ashram visits and the Ganga Aarti — comfortable temperatures for sitting outdoors in the evening.
Summer afternoons (April-June) are best spent indoors or near the river; plan bridge walks and sightseeing for early morning or evening.

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