Chennai Weather in August
India · August climate averages and travel tips
In August, Chennai has average highs of 33°C (91°F) and lows of 26°C (78°F). The month is wet, with about 149 mm (5.9 in) of rain spread over 21 days. You get roughly 12.4 hours of daylight and frequently cloudy skies.
Is August a good time to visit Chennai?
August is not the best time to visit Chennai (1.8/10) mainly because of the rain. The weather is much better in January.
Visiting Chennai in August
Weather and what to do
August feels hot, sticky and often cloudy in Chennai. The high reaches 33°C, and rain falls on many days, so outdoor plans can be interrupted by showers. The sea breeze may bring relief along Marina Beach, but swimming conditions can be rough during the monsoon.
Choose indoor stops such as the Government Museum or a meal in Mylapore when rain sets in. Kapaleeshwarar Temple is worth visiting too, though its open courtyards can get wet. Long walks and beach time are less dependable this month.
August events
Madras Day on August 22 celebrates the city's founding. You may find heritage walks and talks around places such as Fort St George and George Town. Independence Day on August 15 brings flag-raising ceremonies and public events. Krishna Jayanthi may also fall in August, though its date changes each year; sweet shops often mark it with festive treats.
If you love city history, Madras Day is a good reason to visit, but check which walks are running before you set out.
Crowds and practical tips
August is quieter than Chennai's cooler winter months, when sightseeing is more comfortable. Rain and humidity keep many visitors away, so you may find better hotel deals than in peak season. Local life continues, but heavy showers can slow road traffic.
For a rainy-day journey between Egmore and Chennai Central, take the Metro instead of relying on a car through traffic. At Mylapore's eateries, try a hot idli or filter coffee while a shower passes. Don't build your day around an uninterrupted beach visit; keep an indoor stop in mind.
August weather at a glance
| Average high | 33°C (91°F) |
|---|---|
| Average low | 26°C (78°F) |
| Daily mean | 29°C (84°F) |
| Rainfall | 149 mm (5.9 in) |
| Rainy days (1 mm+) | 21 |
| Humidity | 74% |
| Cloud cover | 80% |
| Daylight | 12.4 hours |
| Est. sunshine | 2.7 hours/day |
| Wind | 10.7 km/h |
| vs July | 1°C cooler than July, with 32 mm more rain. |
What to pack for Chennai in August
- light, breathable clothing
- sunscreen and a hat
- an umbrella or rain jacket
Chennai weather in other months
← JulyBest time to visit ChennaiSeptember →
Better weather in August nearby
- Astana25°C · 30 mm · Excellent
- Baku29°C · 3 mm · Excellent
- Sanaa29°C · 13 mm · Excellent
- Istanbul30°C · 17 mm · Excellent
- Ulan Bator23°C · 73 mm · Excellent
- Bali28°C · 27 mm · Excellent
Nearby in August
- Kallakurichi34°C · 112 mm
- Bengaluru28°C · 142 mm
- Tiruchirappalli34°C · 99 mm
- Vijayawada32°C · 187 mm
- Madurai34°C · 101 mm
- Coimbatore28°C · 150 mm
Where else is good in August? See where to go in August.