Weather in Delhi 🇮🇳
Monthly weather averages & travel planning
January
Avg Temp
20°C
Rain Days
3 days
Sun Hours
9 hrs
Humidity
70%
Asia › 🇮🇳 India › Delhi
Updated: March 2026
Is January a Good Time to Visit Delhi?
8/10
Excellent
January is a excellent time to visit Delhi (8/10). With 9 daily sunshine hours and only 3 rain days, this month delivers genuinely reliable outdoor conditions, ranking it 10th sunniest of the year in Delhi. Beach and outdoor-focused visitors will find January ideal, though hotel prices reflect demand and popular sites get crowded by mid-morning. February offers a similar profile at lower hotel rates if dates are flexible. The main practical note: Delhi's popular sites are busiest between 10am and 3pm regardless of season. Arriving at opening time or after 4pm makes a significant difference to the experience. Planning tips: book accommodation at least 6-8 weeks ahead, as popular hotels fill quickly during January. Purchasing skip-the-line tickets for major attractions in advance saves meaningful time. If you have flexibility, arriving a few days before or after peak weekends reduces both crowds and prices noticeably.
vs December:22°C avg high
January sits at a particular moment in Delhi's seasonal arc. Temperatures average 20°C during the day, placing this month in a comfortable middle band, noticeably warmer than the depths of winter but without midsummer extremes. Against the seasonal backdrop, 3 rainy days and 9 sunshine hours per day help calibrate expectations for what actually awaits on the ground.
20°C
68°F
Avg High
7°C
45°F
Avg Low
3 days
25 mm total
Rain Days
9h
per day avg
Sunshine
70%
Moderate
Humidity
Temperature in Delhi in January
The 13°C day-to-night swing is large enough to require a deliberate layering strategy, what works at noon will be noticeably cold by 10pm. Humidity averages 70%, which is comfortable for most visitors. On warmer days, lighter fabrics help with the mild stickiness in the afternoon. The UV index of 2 is low, meaning sun exposure is minimal concern and sunscreen is largely optional. Winds are calm at an average 13 km/h, so wind-chill is not a factor in planning your clothing. In Fahrenheit: 68°F average high, 45°F overnight low. Data sourced from Open-Meteo ERA5 climate reanalysis (1991–2020 normals).
Temperature Trends
High
Low
Rainfall (mm)
0-20 mm21-50 mm51-100 mm100+ mm
What to Wear in Delhi in January
Morning7°CBefore the day warms up
Afternoon20°CPeak daytime temperature
Evening10°CAfter sunset cools down
Packing for Delhi in January means dressing for 20°C days and 7°C evenings. A light cotton tee with a casual overshirt works well at 20°C, the overshirt doubles as a layer for air-conditioned venues. Evenings drop 13°C to around 7°C, a notable shift that catches underprepared visitors off guard. Pack a dedicated evening layer. Comfortable walking trainers are the versatile choice for both outdoor sightseeing and indoor venues.
Local tip: Temple and religious site visits require covered shoulders and knees in most of Delhi's heritage areas. A lightweight scarf or sarong weighs almost nothing and solves the problem instantly.
Events in Delhi in January
January has no major festivals or public holidays in Delhi, which is one of its practical advantages for independent travellers. Attractions run at lower capacity than during peak event periods, queues are shorter, and accommodation is easier to find without needing to book many months in advance. Local restaurants, markets, and transport operate at a relaxed pace, making this an ideal time for visitors who prefer a more authentic, unhurried experience of everyday city life rather than large crowds drawn in by a single major headline event.
What to Pack for Delhi in January
Based on 20°C average highs and 3 rainy days
- Light jacket or cardigan for cooler evenings
- Mix of short and long-sleeve layers
- Comfortable walking shoes with good arch support
- Universal travel adapter
- Small day pack for city exploration
- Reusable water bottle
Best Activities in Delhi in January
- Explore outdoor markets and street food stallsMid-morning (10am-12pm)At 20°C, the temperature is ideal for extended walking without overheating
- Guided walking tour of the historic centreMorning or late afternoonComfortable temperatures allow several hours on foot without fatigue
- Visit rooftop viewpoints and observation decksGolden hour (1 hour before sunset)Warm clear evenings provide exceptional visibility for panoramic photography
- Day trip to the surrounding countryside or coastFull day (depart by 8am)January is reliably dry enough for rural day trips without weather risk
- Afternoon in a world-class museum or galleryAfternoon (2-5pm)Pairs well with outdoor morning activities and provides a mid-day rest from sightseeing
- Coffee-house or traditional cafe culture experienceMid-morning or post-lunchA cultural ritual in this region that rewards slow appreciation regardless of weather
- Evening live music, theatre, or opera performanceEvening shows typically at 7-9pmConsistent evening temperatures make getting to and from evening venues comfortable
- Visit the main botanical garden or city park at seasonal peakYear-round; best light in morningJanuary brings distinct seasonal changes to public green spaces worth exploring
- Try the seasonal farmer's market for local produce and street foodSaturday morning markets typically 8am-1pmJanuary seasonal produce is at peak availability, offering dishes not found at other times of year
Why is Delhi mild in January?
January in Delhi reflects a mid-latitude climate pattern, with temperatures averaging 20°C by day and 7°C overnight. The city sits at 29 degrees north latitude, where the balance between solar radiation and heat loss drives conditions that are neither extreme nor static. Conditions occupy the comfortable middle band of the annual temperature range, where outdoor activity is feasible without the extremes of midsummer heat or midwinter cold. Day-to-night temperature variation of 13°C is large and requires deliberate layering. Climate data: Open-Meteo ERA5 (1991–2020).
Sunshine Hours
The average number of hours per day with direct sunlight. Calculated from satellite measurements. Days with more than 7 hours of sunshine are ideal for outdoor activities. Under 3 hours means overcast conditions dominate.
UV Index
A scale from 0-11+ measuring ultraviolet radiation intensity. UV 0-2: Minimal risk. UV 3-5: Moderate, wear sunscreen. UV 6-7: High, hat and SPF 30+ essential. UV 8-10: Very High, limit midday exposure. UV 11+: Extreme, seek shade between 10am-4pm.
Rain Days
A rain day is counted when precipitation exceeds 0.1mm. This threshold captures even light drizzle. Unlike total rainfall in mm, rain days tells you how often you might need an umbrella, which is useful for planning outdoor activities.
Humidity
Relative humidity as a percentage. Below 40%: Dry, skin and throat may feel parched. 40-60%: Comfortable, ideal for most people. 60-80%: Sticky, light breathable fabrics recommended. Above 80%: Muggy, heat feels more intense; quick-dry clothing is essential.
Frequently Asked Questions
Delhi in January
In January, Delhi experiences average highs of 20°C (68°F) and lows of 7°C (45°F). Expect around 3 rainy days and 9 hours of sunshine per day, with humidity averaging 70%. The 13°C gap between daytime and overnight temperatures is worth planning around: light layers work for most visitors during the day, but an extra jacket is essential for evenings. UV exposure is moderate at index 2.
Delhi typically sees 3 rainy days in January, with total precipitation of around 25mm. This makes January one of the drier months of the year, and a reliable window for outdoor sightseeing and day trips. Rain showers tend to be brief when they do occur. For context, the driest month in Delhi typically sees 4-6 fewer rain days than January.
Pack light layers, a light jacket for evenings, comfortable walking shoes, and sunscreen for Delhi in January. Daytime temperatures of 20°C are pleasant, but the evening drop to 7°C means a jacket is essential if you plan to be out after dark. Rain is infrequent with only 3 wet days, so a light rain layer is optional. Comfortable walking shoes are a priority given the amount of ground most visitors cover.
Yes, January is an excellent time to visit Delhi. With 9 daily sunshine hours and only 3 rainy days, conditions are ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Temperatures averaging 20°C during the day are comfortable for long walks and outdoor dining. This is peak travel season, so booking accommodation in advance and arriving at popular attractions early in the morning helps avoid the busiest periods.
The average high temperature in Delhi in January is 20°C (68°F), and the average low is 7°C (45°F). The mean daily temperature is approximately 14°C (56°F). The day-to-night range of 13°C is significant and requires layering. These are 30-year climate normals based on the 1991 to 2020 reference period; individual years will vary, particularly in transitional months like spring and autumn.
The best month to visit Delhi is generally May. May offers the most sunshine at 13 hours per day and only 5 rainy days. Average temperatures reach 40°C, making it comfortable for sightseeing, outdoor dining, and exploring the city. If your travel dates are flexible, planning your trip around May gives you the best chance of dry, bright weather.
January is shoulder or low season in Delhi, meaning fewer tourists and generally lower prices than peak months. With 9 sunshine hours and 3 rainy days, the weather is less of a draw for mass tourism. This is an advantage for travellers who prefer a quieter, more relaxed experience with shorter queues and easier accommodation availability.
In January, Delhi suits a range of activities thanks to mild temperatures around 20°C. With few rainy days, outdoor activities are highly recommended. Top options include exploring historic neighbourhoods, visiting museums and galleries, local food markets, and day trips to surrounding areas. With 9 hours of sunshine, parks and waterfront walks are particularly enjoyable.
January ranks 10th sunniest of the year in Delhi, with an average 9 daily sunshine hours. The driest months are November, December, and October. May is the hottest month (40°C avg high); January is the coolest (20°C). From here, temperatures rise 3°C into February. Compared to last month (December: 22°C high, 1 rain days), January is cooler and wetter. January is one of the least sunny months, but that often means lower prices and fewer fellow tourists.
Year-Round Climate
| Month | High | Low | Rain Days | Sun | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 20°C | 7°C | 3 | 9h | View |
| February | 23°C | 10°C | 4 | 10h | View |
| March | 29°C | 15°C | 3 | 11h | View |
| April | 36°C | 21°C | 3 | 12h | View |
| May | 40°C | 25°C | 5 | 13h | View |
| June | 38°C | 28°C | 9 | 12h | View |
| July | 34°C | 27°C | 19 | 9h | View |
| August | 32°C | 26°C | 19 | 9h | View |
| September | 32°C | 24°C | 10 | 10h | View |
| October | 32°C | 19°C | 2 | 11h | View |
| November | 27°C | 14°C | 1 | 10h | View |
| December | 22°C | 9°C | 1 | 10h | View |
January
3 rain days, 9h sun
20°7°
February
4 rain days, 10h sun
23°10°
March
3 rain days, 11h sun
29°15°
April
3 rain days, 12h sun
36°21°
May
5 rain days, 13h sun
40°25°
June
9 rain days, 12h sun
38°28°
July
19 rain days, 9h sun
34°27°
August
19 rain days, 9h sun
32°26°
September
10 rain days, 10h sun
32°24°
October
2 rain days, 11h sun
32°19°
November
1 rain days, 10h sun
27°14°
December
1 rain days, 10h sun
22°9°
Other Months in Delhi
Plan Your Trip to Delhi
Data Sources for Delhi
Climate normals represent 30-year averages (1991-2020). Individual years may vary.