Climate Overview
The climate in Tirunelveli is hot. The average annual temperature is 29°C and approximately 589mm of precipitation falls per year. November is the wettest month, receiving around 147mm of rainfall. Tirunelveli sits near the equator, so seasonal temperature differences are minimal throughout the year.
Temperature
Tirunelveli sees moderate temperature variation throughout the year, ranging from 23°C to 38°C. April is the hottest month, with daytime highs reaching 38°C and an average of 32°C. January is the coolest month, with minimum temperatures around 23°C and an average of 26°C. On average, daily temperatures fluctuate by about 9°C between overnight lows and afternoon highs. The sharpest temperature change occurs between February and March, with a 3°C shift in average temperatures.
Precipitation
Tirunelveli is a relatively dry area, receiving approximately 589mm of precipitation annually, which averages out to around 49mm per month. The wettest month is November, averaging 147mm of rainfall. October and May also tend to see above-average precipitation. The driest month is January, with just 3mm. That's 144mm less than November, the wettest month. Rainfall is heavily concentrated in certain months, creating a distinct wet and dry season. Visitors should plan around these patterns, as the difference between peak and low months is dramatic.
Wind
Tirunelveli is relatively calm, with an average annual wind speed of 3km/h. For context, sustained winds below 12km/h are generally light, while anything above 25km/h is considered strong. The windiest month is August, averaging 4km/h, though still comfortable for most outdoor activities. The calmest conditions occur in November, with average winds dropping to 2km/h, making it an ideal period for wind-sensitive activities. Wind speeds vary significantly across the year, with a 2km/h difference between the calmest and windiest months. This level of variation is worth factoring into travel plans.
Seasons
62 days until Autumn
It is currently summer in Tirunelveli, which began on June 21, 2026. Tirunelveli sits near the equator, so the traditional four-season cycle is less pronounced — temperatures remain relatively stable year-round. The warmest period peaks in April at around 38°C, while the coldest stretch bottoms out in January near 23°C. Autumn is next, beginning on September 23, 2026 — 62 days from now.
Spring
Temperatures range from 26 to 38°C. Rainfall is relatively light, with around 119mm over the season and a monthly average of 40mm. Winds are generally light, averaging 2km/h. Light layers work well as temperatures warm through the season — a great time to be outdoors.
Summer
Temperatures range from 26 to 35°C. Rainfall is relatively light, with around 125mm over the season and a monthly average of 42mm. Winds are generally light, averaging 4km/h. Light, breathable clothing is ideal — perfect conditions for outdoor activities.
Autumn
Temperatures range from 24 to 35°C. Precipitation is moderate at around 260mm for the season, averaging 87mm per month. Winds are generally light, averaging 3km/h. A waterproof jacket and sturdy footwear are recommended as rain becomes more frequent.
Winter
Temperatures range from 23 to 33°C. Rainfall is relatively light, with around 86mm over the season and a monthly average of 29mm. Winds are generally light, averaging 3km/h. A light jacket or sweater is usually sufficient, though cooler evenings may call for an extra layer.
Monthly Climate Data
The table below shows monthly climate averages for Tirunelveli based on historical weather data. Min and max temperatures represent typical overnight lows and afternoon highs for each month, shown in degrees Celsius (°C). Precipitation is measured in millimetres (mm) and indicates the average total rainfall per month. Wind speed is the average sustained speed in kilometres per hour (km/h). All values are based on averages from over 10 years of historical weather data. The current month is highlighted for quick reference.