May is typically the hottest month and marks the onset of the southwest monsoon in many years; humidity becomes oppressive. Heavy rains can begin late in the month, making travel and boat schedules less predictable.
Average daily low and high (°C) and monthly rainfall. The badge shows how it feels, allowing for humidity.
Average temperature across Bangladesh in May.
Rangpur, Rajshahi, Dinajpur
May is oppressive: heat and humidity combine to make mid‑afternoon feel stifling with highs around 35-38°C before the monsoon breaks. The Nor’westers intensify, bringing short, violent rains that cool the air but can turn rural tracks to mud. Travel by local roads becomes slower; keep bottled water, a hat and avoid midday cycling when the sun is strongest.
Dhaka, Mymensingh, Gazipur
May is the final push before the monsoon; humidity is high and the heat can be oppressive, especially in traffic-choked Dhaka where temperatures can feel above 35°C. Nor’westers are still frequent and may cause scattered damage to trees and power lines. Travel inside the city is slower - avoid mid-day road travel, choose early starts, and keep sunscreen and cooling wipes handy.
Sylhet, Srimangal, Bandarban, Chittagong Hill Tracts
May is humid and storm-prone; the pre-monsoon convective storms bring heavy local rain that drenches tracks and can trigger small landslides on steep hill roads. Tea-picking continues despite showers, and the waterfalls around Bandarban surge - great for photography but slippery underfoot. If you plan hikes, choose certified guides and be prepared for muddy trails and wet gear.
Khulna, Sundarbans, Kuakata, Patuakhali
May heats up before the monsoon, and the coastline becomes humid and oppressive during the afternoons; sea breezes offer some relief but storms are frequent. Fishermen adjust schedules for rough seas while tidal surges can occasionally flood low-lying embankments near the Sundarbans. Travel plans that include small boat trips should factor in cancellations and bring waterproofs and emergency contact details.
Southeast coast, Teknaf, Himchari
May combines strong heat with mounting humidity; sea conditions can be choppy and small fishing boats may pause operations during thunderstorms. This pre-monsoon period has occasional cyclonic disturbances that can disrupt schedules and cause rough launches to the island. Travelers should be cautious about day-trips and keep flexible plans and backup accommodation in Teknaf or Cox’s Bazar.
There are no major festivals or events in Bangladesh during May to be aware of.
See how May compares with the rest of the year, then read the full guide.