Schools in Islamabad Compared
Choosing a school in Islamabad: government, private and international schools compared, Matric vs Cambridge vs IB, and the questions to ask on a visit.
Islamabad Weather Month by Month
Islamabad’s weather month by month: typical temperatures and rainfall, the monsoon, the spring pollen season, winter chills and the best months to visit.
Key takeaways
- Islamabad has hot summers, a wet monsoon in July and August, mild springs and autumns, and cool winters.
- Spring brings the city’s notorious pollen season, a serious issue for allergy sufferers.
- October, November and the late-winter weeks are often the most comfortable months.
On this page
Islamabad has four distinct seasons, shaped by its position at the foot of the Margalla Hills. Summers are hot, the monsoon is heavy, winters are cool and spring is beautiful, unless you’re allergic to pollen. The figures below are approximate long-term averages; check the Pakistan Meteorological Department for forecasts and warnings.
Month by month
| Month | Typical high | Typical low | What to expect |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | About 17°C | About 3°C | Coldest month; chilly nights, occasional rain |
| February | About 19°C | About 6°C | Cool and fresh; pollen season begins |
| March | About 24°C | About 11°C | Pleasant days; peak pollen; spring storms |
| April | About 30°C | About 16°C | Warm; pollen fading; occasional hail |
| May | About 36°C | About 21°C | Hot and dry; heatwaves possible |
| June | About 38°C | About 25°C | Hottest month; pre-monsoon storms |
| July | About 35°C | About 25°C | Monsoon: heavy downpours, high humidity |
| August | About 34°C | About 24°C | Monsoon continues; lush and green |
| September | About 33°C | About 21°C | Humidity eases; rains taper off |
| October | About 30°C | About 14°C | Clear, comfortable, great for hiking |
| November | About 24°C | About 8°C | Crisp mornings, sunny days |
| December | About 19°C | About 4°C | Cool; foggy mornings are possible |
Winter (December to February)
Days are mild and sunny, but nights get cold, and many homes lack central heating, so gas heaters and warm clothes matter. Snow doesn’t fall in the city, but the hill stations nearby, such as Murree and Nathia Gali, often get snow. Read our guide to day trips from Islamabad before heading up, as winter roads can close.
Spring (February to April)
The city blooms, and so does its pollen. Islamabad is known for a severe spring pollen season, driven largely by paper mulberry trees. Allergy sufferers often plan ahead with medication, masks and closed windows on high-pollen days. Spring can also bring sudden thunderstorms and hail.
Summer (May and June)
Temperatures regularly pass 40°C during heatwaves. Plan outdoor activities for early morning or evening, drink plenty of water and watch for heat warnings. Power demand peaks, and electricity bills rise.
Monsoon (July to September)
The monsoon brings heavy downpours, humidity and a burst of green across the hills. Storms can flood low-lying roads and streams, especially in parts of Rawalpindi. Avoid driving through flooded roads, and check warnings from the authorities before travelling to the mountains, where landslides can block routes.
Autumn (October and November)
Many residents’ favourite season: clear skies, cool mornings and warm afternoons. It’s the best time for hiking the Margalla Hills and outdoor events.
The best time to visit
For comfortable weather, aim for October to November or late February to April, if pollen isn’t a problem for you. Plan around festivals and holidays with our Islamabad events calendar.
Frequently asked questions
Does it snow in Islamabad?
Not in the city itself, but snow is common in winter in the nearby hills around Murree and the Galiyat.
When is the pollen season in Islamabad?
Mainly in spring, roughly February to April, with the peak usually in March.
What’s the rainiest month?
July and August, during the monsoon, are usually the wettest months.
Sources
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