Table of Contents
Hottest Cities in India are renowned for their scorching weather, particularly from March to September. Throughout these months, temperatures soar across many parts of the country, creating challenging conditions for its residents. The intense heat often leads to power outages and shortages of vital resources like water and electricity. While the people are accustomed to these extreme conditions, they always welcome the occasional cool breeze when it arrives.
Here are the 10 hottest places in India, where temperatures can sometimes reach almost half of the boiling point:
1. Sri Ganganagar
Located in Rajasthan, the largest state in India, this city sits at an altitude of 178 meters. It is famous for recording India’s highest temperature, soaring up to 50 degrees Celsius, and experiencing extreme weather throughout the year. In winter, temperatures can plunge to as low as 0 degrees Celsius.
- Record High: 50ºC
- Average High: 41ºC (May-July)
2. Jhansi
Famous for its brave queen, Rani Laxmi Bai, Jhansi is a city in Uttar Pradesh, often called “The Gateway to Bundelkhand.” Situated approximately 220 km north of the Tropic of Cancer, the city experiences extreme temperatures. Located on a plateau with small rivers running through it, these rivers often dry up during the intense heat, adding to the region’s challenges.
- Record High: 48°C
- Average High: 46ºC (April-July)
3. Nagpur
This city, known as Orange City, is the third largest in Maharashtra and serves as the state’s second capital. It experiences extreme heat, with temperatures reaching up to 48 degrees Celsius. Drawing tourists year-round, it is considered a central hub in India, contributing to its higher temperatures.
- Record High: 48ºC
- Average High: 40ºC (April-June)
4. Daltonganj
Daltonganj, also called Medininagar, is located in Jharkhand. The weather here tends to be humid due to the moisture in the air. The city benefits from the River Koel, which provides some relief from the otherwise uncomfortable conditions. However, over time, there have been several reports of heat-related fatalities in the city.
- All-time High: 48ºC
- Average Temperature: 40ºC
5. Bilaspur
Bilaspur, situated in Chhattisgarh near the Tropic of Cancer, faces intense sun exposure. Located 220 km south of the tropics, the city receives 10% more solar radiation than other areas. This results in extremely high daytime temperatures, making it challenging for residents to venture outside.
- Peak Temperature Recorded: 49ºC
- Average High Temperature: 45ºC (April-June)
6. Vijayawada
Referred to as the Oven of Andhra Pradesh, Vijayawada faces intense heat and humidity. With daytime temperatures exceeding 45°C, the city, located by the Kaveri River, becomes chaotic and uncomfortable. The tropical climate makes it challenging for residents to cope with the scorching heat.
- Highest Temperature Recorded: 49ºC
- Average High Temperature: 45ºC (May)
7. Rentachintala
Nestled in the Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh, this village faces intense hot and dry tropical weather. The summers are particularly harsh, with temperatures soaring up to 52°C. The extreme heat makes the conditions especially unbearable in the Krishna River plains.
- All-Time High: 52ºC
- Average High Temperature: 45ºC (March-June)
8. Titlagarh
Titlagarh, located in Odisha, ranks as one of the hottest places in India, outside the Thar Desert. The city experiences extreme heat, particularly during the summer, with daytime temperatures soaring up to 43°C. Titlagarh is renowned for its lively markets and vibrant nightlife despite the scorching heat.
- Highest Recorded Temperature: 48ºC
- Average High Temperature: 40ºC (March-June)
9. Wardha
Situated 80 km southwest of Nagpur in Maharashtra, this district is named after the River Wardha. It serves as a major hub for India’s cotton trade and boasts impressive ancient architecture. Interestingly, it has the world’s highest drinking age, set at 30 years. The temperature in this region can rise to a scorching 50°C.
- All-Time High: 48ºC
- Average High Temperature: 40ºC (April-June)
10. Delhi
Delhi, the capital of India, also faces intense heat and hot winds. Known as one of the hottest cities in India, it experiences a sub-tropical and humid climate. During peak summer, temperatures can rise to around 50°C, causing significant discomfort. These soaring temperatures disrupt daily life and affect the city’s vital role as a major trade hub.
- Highest Recorded Temperature: 48ºC
- Average High Temperature: 47ºC (May-June)
Conclusion
In 2024, numerous cities in India continue to endure extreme heat, making them some of the hottest places in the country. These cities witness temperatures soaring up to 50°C, coupled with humid and dry conditions that make daily life difficult. Recognising these hot spots is essential for tackling the effects of extreme heat on health, lifestyle, and economic activities. Being prepared for such harsh weather can help reduce discomfort and minimise the risks associated with living in these sweltering areas.
