Nagarhole National Park in the southern state of Karnataka, India, is situated between the Nilgiri Hills and Kabini River. The wildlife sanctuary spans over 643 sq km and is part of the larger Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. It is known for its rich biodiversity and is home to multiple varieties of wildlife like elephants, leopards, tigers, and over 270 species of birds. The dense deciduous forests, rivers, and grasslands make it one of the best destinations for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Knowing about Nagarhole weather and temperature is necessary to understand the weather pattern of Nagarhole. The park’s distinct climatic seasons with different temperature and rainfall influences wildlife movement and its visibility. Nagarhole weather makes the best time to visit the park winter, offering cooler temperatures with an increased chance of clear sightings.

Nagarhole temperature varies depending on the season but overall experiences a tropical climate. The summer months from March to June have a temperature of 25°C to 35°C, with April & May being the hottest months. The monsoon season from June to September sees moderate rainfall and has an average temperature of 22°C to 30°C. The winter months are comfortable and cooler, with daytime temperatures ranging between 18°C to 25°C and nighttime temperatures going below 10°C to 15°C.

Understanding these Nagarhole weather and temperature variations will help you plan a better itinerary for enjoying the beautiful park.

Nagarhole Temperature During Different Seasons

Nagarhole National Park in Karnataka does experience a tropical climate with unique seasonal variations. Here is a brief of what temperatures look like during different seasons.

• Summer: The months of March to May experience temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C. The weather is dry and hot, with April and May being the hottest months. The period has low humidity and wildlife, which you can see near the water sources. 
• Monsoon: The months between June and September receive heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, and the temperature ranges between 22°C and 28°C. The period especially brings lush greenery to the park, and many roads become inaccessible due to mud and flooding. Wildlife sightings are not frequent due to water availability and dense foliage.
• Winter: The months of October to February bring cooler temperatures to Nagarhole, ranging between 15°C and 27°C. Early evenings and mornings are chilly, especially in January. The dry weather also makes spotting wildlife easier, and animals tend to gather around the water sources. 

The variations in temperatures, with every season offering something different, make the experience in Nagarhole a unique one. 

Weather During Summers: April, May, and June

Between the months of April and June, Nagarhole National Park in Karnataka, India. It experiences a warm tropical climate known for its dry conditions and hot temperatures. The period marks the start of the pre-monsoon phase in the region as the distinct weather pattern influences wildlife visibility and movement.

April

The hottest month in Nagarhole is April, with an average temperature ranging between 25°C and 35°C. The days are sunny, and heat increases in the afternoons. The humidity is quite low, contributing to the overall dry weather. The wildlife activity begins to center around the available water sources. This makes April one of the best times for exploring wildlife enthusiasts and animal sightings as they come near the lakes, watering holes, and streams.

May

The nagarhole temperature in May is even higher and averages between 28°C and 37°C. The heat is super intense, and the afternoons are scorching hot. The landscape becomes drier as the vegetation begins to wither and dry under the summer sun. So, you get to see more wildlife around the water bodies. The dry climate also enhances visibility for wildlife viewing and safaris. The heat is a bit uncomfortable, so heading here during late afternoons or early mornings is the best.

June

In June, the temperature is still warm and averages between 25°C and 32°C. The climate begins to transition into the monsoon season. Early June sees a mix of light rains and sunny days, and there is some relief from the intense heat, but it does make the terrain muddy and sightings of wildlife a bit short due to the abundance of water. To enjoy the luscious surroundings, you can head here, but safaris might get cancelled. 

Know the wildlife in summers.

The summer months of Nagarhole see a different side of wildlife. Animals are likely to visit open water bodies. This creates opportunities for sightings of animals like deer, elephants, big cats, leopards, and tigers. These are highly active these months, with mornings and evenings being cooler. Safari-goers will be able to spot animals easily around the forage or water sources during summers. The weather during April, May, and June is warm and dry. It offers the tourists excellent opportunities for spotting wildlife as animals congregate near water, adjusting to the seasonal heat. 

Temperature and Weather During Monsoon: July, August, and September

During the monsoon season, falling between July and September, Nagarhole National Park in Karnataka. The heavy rainfall, lush greenery, and cooler temperatures as the landscape is nourished by the southwest monsoon. The season also transforms the park into a beautiful paradise, bringing challenges like limited accessibility and muddy terrain.

July

The monsoon season starts in July with the average temperature between 22°C and 28°C. The region receives substantial rainfall, with a few days experiencing heavy downpour every day. It increases the vegetation, creating a dense & green canopy throughout the park. The cooler temperature brings relief from the scorching heat; the rains make safari routes harder and slippery to navigate. Sightings are less frequent, but water is everywhere, so animals do not come near the waterholes. 

August

August, the wettest month in Nagarhole, has a temperature of 22°C to 27°C. Rainfall during this period is heavy, and frequent showers create a tranquil and misty environment. The park is the greenest during this time, and the lakes and rivers are flowing. The beautiful weather makes the safari route less accessible, so the wildlife sightings are more sporadic, and animals spread out to use the water sources. 

September 

The monsoon season comes to a close in September, and the temperature remains cool, with the average one being 22°C to 30°C. The rains begin to taper, and the park retains all the greenery and freshness from the earlier months. The transitional period also offers a mix of weather—so the mornings have rain, but the afternoons have clearer skies. Moreover, you get to see much wildlife as they adapt to changing conditions and climates. 

Know the wildlife in monsoon: 

If you are taking a safari in the monsoon season, know that the safari can be cancelled anytime due to heavy rains. But it also provides beautiful opportunities for birdwatching, especially the migratory ones, and resident species are more active. The heavy rainfall and mud make the wildlife safari challenging, but tourists should come prepared to face the wet conditions and check the route’s accessibility. Though safaris are limited, you will benefit from the green, unique, and serene view of Nagarhole’s beauty, especially for bird enthusiasts, travelers, and bird enthusiasts. 

Temperature and Weather During Autumn: October and November

The autumn months between October and November, Nagarhole National Park changes to drier weather, offering cooler temperatures with improved conditions for viewing the wildlife. The clearer skies, less rainfall, and a vibrant landscape prepare the park well for winters.  

October 

The monsoon season starts to retreat, with the park experiencing average temperatures ranging between 20°C and 30°C. With sunny days and lower humidity as compared to the wet monsoon months. The landscape also becomes green and lush because of recent rain, and the cooler evenings and mornings make the weather ideal for wildlife and visitors. The wildlife activity is also higher as animals head out to prepare for the upcoming winter months with water sources remaining abundant, encouraging the movement of the animals. 

November

November is a bit cold with the average temperature ranging from 18°C to 28°C. The weather is comfortable with cooler mornings and evenings and clear, warm days. The clear skies with minimal rainfall make it one of the best months for visiting Nagarhole for wildlife safaris. The water levels reduce, but foraging increases. Thus, animal sightings are more about animals coming to collect water and food sources.

Know the wildlife in Autumn

The autumn months are most comfortable and rewarding for exploring Nagarhole. The cooler weather with clear skies improves safari visibility and birdwatching. The animals, like tigers, leopards, elephants, and various species of deer, are seen near the water holes or near grasslands. Also, for birdwatchers, spotting many varieties of birds makes it the best time ever. 

Temperature and Weather During Winters: December, January, February, and March

During the winter months of December to March, Nagarhole National Park experiences drier conditions and cooler temperatures. It is one of the most beautiful periods to enjoy wildlife safaris while exploring the park. The winter season is highlighted by clear skies, comfortable weather, and lower humidity. It offers optimal conditions for both tourism and wildlife activity.

December 

With December, the onset of winters begins in Nagarhole. So, Nagarhole temperature ranges between 15°C and 27°C. Early evenings and mornings are cooler, but daytime temperatures are pleasant. The weather is dry; there are clear skies and no rain. This makes it perfect for wildlife spotting and safaris.  

January 

It is the coldest month in Nagarhole, so knowing about the Nagarhole weather forecast is necessary, with the temperature ranging between 13°C and 25°C. The mornings are chilly, and the afternoons are warm & sunny. The landscape of the park looks dry and serene with fewer water sources and vegetation. Thus, wildlife viewing is easier. It is an excellent month for tiger, leopard, and elephant spotting as they come out from cooler parts of the forest to look for food and water. 

February

The temperature ranges from 15°C to 27°C. This ensures the cool but comfortable climate of the early winter season. The days are sunny with the weather remaining dry with occasional mist in the early mornings. Wildlife sightings are at a peak, and animals actively move between water sources and grasslands searching for food. February is also good for birdwatchers who can see migratory and local birds become active. 

March 

March transitions Nagarhole weather from winter to summer, and the temperature begins to rise. The average temperature is between 18°C and 30°C. The evenings and mornings are cool, and the afternoon becomes warmer as the pre-summer climate sets in. The dry weather keeps going, and the landscape is set for summer’s arrival. Wildlife sightings are common but maybe not as frequent.  

Know the wildlife in winter 

Winter is considered the best time for visiting Nagarhole, as the combination of increased wildlife activity and pleasant weather makes it beautiful. Animals are easier to sight as they gather near remaining forage and water sources in open grasslands. The period is best for observing large mammals like deer, big cats, and elephants like leopards and tigers. 

What is the Best Season for Wildlife Enthusiast?

The best season for wildlife enthusiasts to visit Nagarhole National Park is the winter months from December to February, though October to March are also ideal. Nagarhole weather during this period is comfortable, dry and cooler with clear skies lowering humidity, improving visibility for safaris. The wildlife activity is at peak and animals gather near the limited water sources, making the sightings easier and frequent. The combination of seeing the wildlife active like the majestic elephants, leopards and tigers amidst other wildlife makes going on a wildlife safari one of the best options.

How Does Weather and Temperature Affect Nagarhole animals’ behavior?

The temperature and weather in Nagarhole National Park influence the behavior, activity patterns, and movement of the diverse wildlife present here. 

In summer, with the temperature a bit high, the wildlife is active during morning hours and late evenings. During the daytime, finding animals roaming around is not possible. You will find the animals gathered around the water bodies to stay cool and hydrated. You will also see predators like leopards and tigers adjusting their hunting patterns, focusing on areas near water sources. 

In monsoon, the temperature is mild, and you can experience heavy rainfall. Increase in abundant water and vegetation makes movement slower while decreasing sights too. 

In winters, Nagarhole’s temperature in the mornings and evenings is cool. The animals are quite active during cooler hours as they are looking to conserve energy. The wildlife circles the limited water supply and makes sighting easier. 

Nagarhole temperature and weather directly affect the wildlife behavior by influencing hunting, mating, foraging patterns, and migrations. Animals also adapt to the changes in season to survive. As tourists, knowing about the Nagarhole weather forecast and temperature helps you have an immersive experience in the national park.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nagarhole Temperature & Weather