Karnataka in Summer: Best Places to Visit from March to May and How to Beat the Heat

Karnataka summer weather at a glance

Summer runs from March to May. The plateau districts of the north, such as Raichur, Kalaburagi, Ballari and Vijayapura, become very hot, often above 40°C in April and May. Bengaluru stays comparatively moderate, with warm afternoons and cooler evenings. The coast is humid, with temperatures around 32 to 35°C. The hills of Kodagu, Chikkamagaluru and Hassan are cooler, though they can feel warm at midday in April.

Best places to visit in Karnataka in summer

1. Coorg (Kodagu)

Coorg stays pleasant through the summer, and March to April brings coffee blossom, which fills the air with a jasmine-like fragrance after the first showers. Plan estate stays, waterfall visits and short walks. Book early, as the school holidays create high demand. See the Kodagu guide.

2. Chikkamagaluru and Kemmangundi

The hills stay cool, and viewpoints such as Mullayanagiri and Baba Budangiri are lovely at sunrise. Treks are possible in the early morning. See the Chikkamagaluru guide and hill stations in Karnataka.

3. Sakleshpur

A quieter alternative to Coorg. Estate stays and walks in the early morning are the highlights.

4. Kabini, Nagarhole and Bandipur

Summer is prime time for wildlife. Dry forests and shrinking water sources bring animals to the Kabini backwaters, and elephant gatherings can be very large. Afternoons are hot, so plan safaris at dawn and dusk. See wildlife safaris and national parks in Karnataka.

5. Nandi Hills and Skandagiri

Sunrise visits are cool and pleasant even in April. Weekdays are better because weekends can be extremely crowded.

6. Mysuru

The old city has a moderate climate and plenty of shaded gardens, museums and palaces. Visit in the morning and evening. See the Mysore Palace guide.

7. Udupi, Murudeshwar and Gokarna

The coast is hot and humid, but sea breezes and the early morning or evening make it workable. Avoid midday on the beach. See beaches in Karnataka.

8. Waterfalls and rivers near Bengaluru

Shivanasamudra and Mekedatu are lower in summer. Check water levels before travelling. See waterfalls in Karnataka.

Places to avoid in the summer

• Hampi: Boulders retain heat, and there is little shade. If you must go, visit at sunrise and rest in the afternoon.
• Badami, Aihole and Pattadakal: Open areas and stone temples get extremely hot.
• Vijayapura, Kalaburagi, Raichur and Bidar: Peak heat in April and May.
• Jog Falls: The flow is thin in summer.

See the best time to visit Karnataka for better months for heritage areas.

Summer travel tips

• Start early. Sightsee from sunrise to about 11 am and again after 4 pm.
• Hydrate. Carry plenty of water and oral rehydration salts.
• Wear light cotton clothes and a hat, plus sunscreen.
• Book hill stays early. The school holiday months fill quickly.
• Avoid long drives at noon. Heat and fatigue are risks.
• Eat local coolers. Tender coconut, buttermilk and sugarcane juice are everywhere.

Summer food and drinks to try

Karnataka has several natural coolers: tender coconut water, panaka (a jaggery and lime drink), neer more (spiced buttermilk) and fresh sugarcane juice. For meals, ragi-based dishes are traditionally eaten in summer for their cooling effect. See food to try in Karnataka.

A sample summer itinerary

• Day 1: Bengaluru to Mysuru, evening palace lights.
• Day 2: Mysuru to Coorg.
• Day 3: Coorg waterfalls, coffee estate and Dubare.
• Day 4: Drive to Chikkamagaluru, sunset viewpoint.
• Day 5: Mullayanagiri sunrise and return.

Use our 5-day itinerary or 7-day itinerary as a guide.

Frequently asked questions