January Weather in Kolkata, India

Last updated: August 21, 2025

In January, Kolkata experiences a delightful winter climate, with daytime highs reaching a comfortable 31°C (89°F), while the nights cool down to an average of 19°C (66°F) and can dip as low as 10°C (50°F). The month is characterized by minimal precipitation, recording only 6 mm (0.2 in) over just one day, and maintaining a pleasant humidity level of 55%. This combination of mild temperatures and low rainfall makes January an ideal time to explore the vibrant city and enjoy its rich culture.

January Temperature in Kolkata

In January, Kolkata experiences a delightful range of temperatures that set the stage for the city's vibrant winter. With nighttime lows around 10°C (50°F) and daytime highs peaking at 31°C (89°F), the average temperature hovers around a comfortable 19°C (66°F). This month marks a gentle transition from the cooler December temperatures and indicates the impending warmth of spring. As the city moves into February, we see a notable rise in warmth, with average temperatures climbing to 22°C (72°F) and maximums reaching 35°C (96°F). This upward trend continues into March and April, where temperatures soar, revealing Kolkata's steamy summers ahead. January's pleasant climate invites locals and visitors alike to enjoy the city’s famed outdoors, making it an ideal month for exploration and festive celebrations.

January Weather in Kolkata: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Kolkata, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Kolkata, January typically has an average temperature of {2}°C ({3}°F), with highs reaching up to {4}°C ({5}°F) and lows dropping to around {6}°C ({7}°F).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec667281868686858585827568
Data source: Temperature data for Kolkata generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

January Precipitation in Kolkata

In January, Kolkata experiences a notably dry spell, with just 6 mm (0.2 in) of precipitation falling over the course of a single day. This pattern marks the tail end of the cool, dry season before the city transitions into the wetter months. As the year progresses, February sees a slight increase with 20 mm (0.8 in), hinting at the gradual buildup of moisture that culminates in the monsoon. By the time March arrives, precipitation rises to 43 mm (1.7 in) over five days, foreshadowing the impending rainier months. This trend continues aggressively from April onward, with the rainy season peaking in June and July, when Kolkata faces heavy showers. Ultimately, January’s minimal rainfall sets the stage for the lush, vibrant vegetation that follows as the monsoon sweeps in.

January Precipitation Trends in Kolkata

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Kolkata, with values for each month alongside January’s data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how January’s conditions compare to those of other months. In Kolkata, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec62043891322653533532781785151
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

January Humidity in Kolkata

In January, Kolkata experiences a moderate humidity level of 55%, providing a comfortable climate for residents and visitors alike. This marks a transition from the cooler, drier conditions of winter before the humidity begins to decline further in February to 45%. As the city steps into spring, March and April see a drop to 32% and 30% respectively, creating a crisp atmosphere. However, this perky dry spell fades quickly by May, when humidity spikes back up to 56%, signaling the onset of the pre-monsoon season. As June arrives, humidity escalates to 60%, eventually peaking in the monsoon months of July and August at 84% and 86% respectively, when residents often seek respite from the sweltering heat and heavy rains. After the monsoon, humidity gradually decreases through September (86%) and October (83%), before settling into a more comfortable 73% in November and 69% in December, rounding off the year with a hint of relief. This seasonal ebb and flow of humidity profoundly influences Kolkata's weather, shaping the rhythms of life in this vibrant city.

January Average Humidity in Kolkata

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Kolkata, with January’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In January, average humidity in Kolkata is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec55%45%32%31%56%60%84%86%86%83%73%69%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Kolkata

In Kolkata, India, the UV Index experiences a noticeable increase as the year progresses. In January, the UV Index stands at 5, categorizing the exposure as moderate, allowing for a burn time of about 30 minutes. As February arrives, this figure rises to 7, indicating a high level of exposure. The trend continues into March and April, where the UV Index reaches 9 and 10, respectively—both categorized as very high, significantly reducing burn times to just 15 minutes. The months of May through September expose residents to extreme levels with a peak UV Index of 13, demanding caution as burn times drop to a mere 10 minutes. As the year winds down, the figures ease again, returning to a moderate 5 in December. For a comprehensive view of UV levels throughout the year, explore more at Kolkata UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Kolkata for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Kolkata in January, representing the highest UV radiation level. The UVI measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, indicating the potential risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues. In January, the maximum UV index in Kolkata typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec5791012121313131175
Data source: Kolkata January UVI data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

January Sunshine in Kolkata

In Kolkata, January heralds the beginning of the year with a gentle embrace of sunshine, boasting 242 hours of radiant light. This month marks a gradual ascent into brighter days, paving the way for February's 284 hours and March's substantial leap to 329 hours. As spring sets in, the sunshine peaks in April and May with 330 and 345 hours respectively, inviting residents to relish the warmth and vibrancy of the season. The sun remains vibrant through the summer months before experiencing a slight dip in June and July, falling to 282 and 277 hours. Despite these fluctuations, the golden rays return in August (293 hours) and October (289 hours), while November and December settle into a cozy rhythm with 282 and 272 hours. This dance of daylight illustrates Kolkata's diverse climate, with winter sunshine inviting warm moments even as it gives way to the robust summer glow.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Kolkata: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Kolkata experiences direct sunlight during the month of January, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of January with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec242h284h329h330h345h282h277h293h272h289h282h272h
Data source: Kolkata January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Kolkata During January

In Kolkata, India, January stands out with an impressive 87% chance of sunny weather, making it one of the sunniest months of the year. This trend of abundant sunshine continues into February at 85%, but as we progress into March, the likelihood begins to taper off to 80%. The shift is quite pronounced as the weather transitions into the hotter months, with April dropping to 63% and May further declining to 49%. The monsoon season brings a stark contrast, plunging the chances of sunny days to a mere 6-18% from June through August. Interestingly, as the year winds down, the probability of sunshine gradually rises again, with October at 50% and November at 66%. Thus, January not only marks a period of warmth and brightness but sets the stage for a clear shift towards more variable weather in the months ahead.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Kolkata

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Kolkata throughout the year, with January highlighted. It highlights the variation in sunshine across each month and provides an overview of the typical frequency of sunny days, offering insights into how often Kolkata experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec87%85%80%63%49%19%6%7%9%50%66%61%
Data source: Kolkata January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Kolkata in January

In Kolkata, January marks the year with 10 hours of daylight, setting a tranquil tone for the start of the year. As February arrives, daylight gradually increases to 11 hours, hinting at the upcoming warmth of spring. The transition continues into March and April, where daylight remains steady at 12 hours, perfect for enjoying the vibrant blossoms of the season. May ushers in longer days with 13 hours, and surprisingly, this duration remains consistent through June and July, ideal for outdoor activities and festivals. As summer ebbs, daylight begins to taper off, returning to 12 hours in August and September, while October and November see a slight decrease back to 11 hours. By December, the cycle culminates as daylight returns to 10 hours, mirroring the month it started. This rhythmic ebb and flow of daylight in Kolkata not only marks the change of seasons but also reflects the vibrant cultural practices that flourish throughout the year.

Average Daylight Hours in Kolkata for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Kolkata throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec10h 54m11h 23m12h 1m12h 40m13h 12m13h 28m13h 20m12h 52m12h 14m11h 36m11h 2m10h 45m
Data source: Kolkata daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Kolkata

In January, Kolkata experiences a gentle average wind speed of 2.1 m/s (5 mph), setting a tranquil atmosphere for the beginning of the year. This slight breeze remains consistent into February, barely dipping to 2.0 m/s, but as the city transitions into March, the winds pick up slightly to 2.2 m/s, hinting at the warmer days ahead. Notably, as spring approaches and the heat intensifies from April onwards, wind speeds significantly rise, peaking in May at 3.3 m/s. However, this invigorating gust soon tempers into the monsoon season, with winds slightly diminishing to around 2.9 m/s in July. The trend reveals a cycle of calmness interrupted by bursts of wind during the transition to summer, illustrating Kolkata's unique climatic rhythm throughout the year. As the year winds down, the breezes in late October and November again recede, reminiscent of January's calm, creating a striking contrast to the vibrant energy of the summer months.

Average January Wind Speed in Kolkata

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Kolkata, with values for each month shown alongside January's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how January's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.1 m/s2.02.23.13.33.02.92.72.62.01.92.1
Data source: Kolkata January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Kolkata Compares to Other Months

Weather in Kolkata varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares January’s weather to other months in Kolkata, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.

In January, the weather is generally milder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a maximum of 31°C (89°F) and an average of 19°C (66°F). The month sees minimal precipitation, with only 6 mm (0.2 in) occurring over just 1 day, and the humidity is around 55%. In contrast, February brings warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a low of 10°C (51°F) to a high of 35°C (96°F) and an average of 22°C (72°F). Precipitation increases significantly to 20 mm (0.8 in) while still occurring over the same single day, though the humidity drops to 45%. For more details about February weather, you can find additional information here: Kolkata weather in February.

In comparing the weather between January and March, it is evident that March experiences significantly warmer temperatures. January features a mild climate with minimums of 10°C (50°F) and an average of 19°C (66°F), while March sees minimums rising to 16°C (61°F) and an average of 27°C (81°F). The maximum temperatures in January peak at 31°C (89°F), whereas March reaches a sweltering maximum of 37°C (100°F). Additionally, March has a higher precipitation level at 43 mm (1.7 in) over 5 days, compared to January's modest 6 mm (0.2 in) in just 1 day. Interestingly, the humidity in March is lower at 32%, while January maintains a higher humidity level of 55%. For more detailed information on March weather, you can check Kolkata weather in March.

January and April present notably different weather conditions. In January, temperatures range from a mild 10°C to a warm 31°C, with an average of 19°C and minimal precipitation of just 6 mm over one day, coupled with a humidity level of 55%. In contrast, April sees a significant rise in temperatures, with a minimum of 20°C and a maximum reaching up to 39°C, averaging 30°C. The month also experiences much higher precipitation at 89 mm over 11 days, but with a lower humidity of 30%. These changes highlight the transition from the cooler, drier early year to the hotter, wetter spring conditions. For more details on the weather in April, check out Kolkata weather in April.

In January, temperatures in Kolkata range from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a maximum of 31°C (89°F), with an average of 19°C (66°F). The month experiences minimal rainfall, with only 6 mm (0.2 in) over just 1 day and humidity levels around 55%. In contrast, May sees significantly warmer conditions, with temperatures soaring from a minimum of 22°C (72°F) to a blistering maximum of 40°C (103°F), and an average of 30°C (87°F). This month is much wetter, recording 132 mm (5.2 in) of precipitation over 14 days, accompanied by a similar humidity level of 56%. For more specific insights, you can check Kolkata weather in May.

January and June present stark contrasts in weather. In January, temperatures range from a mild 10°C (50°F) to a warm 31°C (89°F), with an average of 19°C (66°F) and very low precipitation of just 6 mm (0.2 in) over only one day. The humidity is relatively moderate at 55%. In contrast, June experiences significantly higher temperatures, with a minimum of 25°C (77°F) and maximum soaring to 39°C (102°F), averaging around 30°C (87°F). The month is also characterized by substantial rainfall, totaling 265 mm (10.4 in) across 25 days, and slightly increased humidity at 60%. For more information about the weather in June, you can visit Kolkata weather in June.

January and July present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In January, temperatures range from a mild 10°C (50°F) at night to a warm average of 19°C (66°F), with a maximum of 31°C (89°F) during the day. The month experiences minimal precipitation, with only 6 mm (0.2 inches) falling over just 1 day, and humidity levels sit comfortably at 55%. In sharp contrast, July sees a significant increase in temperature, with a minimum of 26°C (78°F) and an average of 30°C (86°F), peaking at a sweltering 36°C (97°F). This month is characterized by heavy rainfall, receiving a staggering 353 mm (13.9 inches) over 29 days, along with high humidity levels of 84%. For more insights, check out Kolkata weather in July.

January and August present stark contrasts in weather. In January, temperatures are milder, ranging from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a maximum of 31°C (89°F) with an average of 19°C (66°F). The month is relatively dry, experiencing only 6 mm (0.2 inches) of precipitation over just one day and maintaining a comfortable humidity level of 55%. In contrast, August is much warmer and more humid, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 25°C (78°F) to a sweltering maximum of 36°C (97°F) and an average of 29°C (85°F). August is also characterized by heavy rainfall, receiving 353 mm (13.9 inches) over about 30 days, resulting in a much higher humidity of 86%. For a deeper look at the weather in Kolkata during this month, you can visit Kolkata weather in August.

The weather in January is characterized by much milder temperatures compared to September, with minimums around 10°C (50°F) and maximums reaching 31°C (89°F). In contrast, September experiences much warmer temperatures, with minimums at 25°C (77°F) and maximums soaring up to 35°C (96°F). Furthermore, January sees minimal precipitation of just 6 mm (0.2 in) over a single day, while September is distinctly wetter, experiencing an average of 278 mm (10.9 in) across 27 days. The humidity also significantly increases in September, rising to 86% from January's more comfortable 55%. For a more detailed look at the specific conditions, check out Kolkata weather in September.

In January, the weather in Kolkata tends to be much milder, characterized by temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a maximum of 31°C (89°F). With an average temperature of 19°C (66°F), January experiences low precipitation, only about 6 mm across just one day, and the humidity is relatively comfortable at 55%. In contrast, October brings significantly warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 20°C (68°F) to a peak of 36°C (97°F) and an average temperature of 28°C (83°F). October is also marked by heavy rainfall, accumulating 178 mm over 16 days, and a higher humidity level of 83%. For more detailed information, check out Kolkata weather in October.

In January, the weather in Kolkata is generally mild, with minimum temperatures around 10°C (50°F) and maximums reaching up to 31°C (89°F). The average temperature is a comfortable 19°C (66°F), accompanied by low humidity at 55% and minimal precipitation of just 6 mm over one day. In contrast, November experiences warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 14°C (57°F) and a maximum of 33°C (92°F), leading to a higher average of 24°C (76°F). November also sees increased rainfall of 51 mm over three days and higher humidity at 73%. For more detailed information, visit Kolkata weather in November.

When comparing the weather in January to December, we observe some distinct differences. January boasts a slightly lower average temperature of 19°C (66°F) compared to December's 20°C (68°F), though both months share similar minimum temperatures around 10°C (50°F). December experiences higher humidity at 69%, contributing to a more muggy atmosphere, while January's humidity drops to 55%. Additionally, precipitation is notably higher in December, with 51 mm (2.0 in) over 2 days, in contrast to January's mere 6 mm (0.2 in) over just 1 day. For more detailed insights, check out Kolkata weather in December.

Compare Kolkata's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Kolkata

January in Kolkata serves as a delightful interlude between the extreme heat of summer and the cooler winter months. With a maximum temperature hovering around a pleasant 31°C (89°F) and an average of 19°C (66°F), the weather is relatively mild compared to the sweltering months ahead. This month boasts a low humidity level of 55%, making it easier to enjoy the outdoors. Moreover, with just 6 mm (0.2 in) of precipitation spread across a mere day, the skies are predominantly clear, allowing for plenty of sunshine. As you explore the vibrant city, relish this refreshing respite before the warmth returns. For more insights on what to expect throughout the year, check out Kolkata Climate.