The climate dictates the agrarian calendar and the culinary habits of the region. The reliance on monsoons means that crop patterns are strictly seasonal. In Kerala and coastal Karnataka, the high rainfall supports paddy cultivation and plantation crops like rubber, cashew, and spices. In contrast, the drier regions of Rayalaseema and interior Tamil Nadu rely on drought-resistant crops like millet, groundnut, and cotton.

Unlike the traditional four seasons of the West, South India experiences a cyclical pattern dominated by two major monsoons.

Let’s break down the key features, seasons, and regional variations that define the climate of this peninsular paradise.