May · India
Best time to visit Chennai in May Weather, crowds & prices
Weather in Chennai in May
Average temperature 31°C, 59 mm of rain, about 25 days with 6+ hours of sunshine and 68% humidity — based on the five most recent complete years of ERA5 data (2021–2025).
May score
9.2/10
Ranked #5 of 12 months
- Avg temp
- 31°C
- Rainfall
- 59 mm
- Humidity
- 68%
- Days with 6h+ sun
- 25
- Crowd Density
- Moderate Crowds
- Average Expenses
- $$ · Moderate Cost ($$)
May in Chennai scores 9.2/10 for beach and coastal travel - an above-average month (#5 of 12). Expect around 31°C, 59 mm of rain, and roughly 25 days with 6+ hours of sunshine this month.
Chennai strings Tamil temples, colonial churches and a long Marina beach along the Bay of Bengal.
May ranks 5th of 12 for Chennai — one of the best windows
May averages 31°C (88°F), so the practical pattern is early mornings, a long midday break, and evenings back outside.
Rainfall runs 59 mm, so plan one flexible day in three; you still get about 25 days with 6+ hours of sunshine and 12.6 hours of daylight.
A 9.2/10 puts this among the year's best months in Chennai (5th of 12); only April scores higher, at 10/10.
Pack the lightest breathable clothing you own, a hat, and more water than feels necessary, a packable rain layer.
Plan for mid-season pricing, with crowds are moderate.
Frequently asked
- What is the weather like in Chennai in May?
- In May, Chennai averages 31°C, 59 mm of rain, and about 25 days with 6+ hours of sunshine. Its climate-comfort score is 9.2/10.
- Is May a good time to visit Chennai?
- May earns a 9.2/10 climate-comfort score. Use the year-round chart to weigh the weather against your budget and crowd preferences.
- How much does it rain in Chennai in May?
- Expect about 59 mm of rain in May. Average humidity is 68% and there are about 25 days with 6+ hours of sunshine.
Curated in Chennai
Tickets & experiences
Things to do in Chennai
Chennai, India. Live activities and tours from GetYourGuide, matched to this destination.