When is the best time to visit Nepal?
Nepal is a fascinating and beautiful country located in South Asia, bordered by China to the north and India to the south, east, and west. It is known for its stunning mountain landscapes, including the world-famous Mount Everest, as well as its rich cultural heritage, diverse wildlife, and warm and hospitable people.
If you're planning a trip to Nepal, one of the most important factors to consider is the time of year you visit. Depending on when you go you can expect different weather conditions, different crowds, and different experiences. We will look at the three main seasons for tourism in Nepal, highlight the best things to do during each one and hopefully help you to decide when would be the best time to visit Nepal.
June to August – Low season
The low season in Nepal is from June to August and this is the season of the monsoons, bringing heavy rainfall with high temperatures of around 30°C. This season can be challenging for trekking and hiking in the mountainous regions due to the slippery trails and landslides. However it is an excellent time for rafting, kayaking, and exploring the lush greenery of the Terai region. While this time of year is typically not as popular with tourists there are still plenty of reasons to visit. The lush green landscapes are at their most vibrant, and the rainfall is usually confined to short bursts, so you can still get out and explore. Additionally, prices for flights, accommodation, and activities are typically lower during this time, making it a great choice for budget-conscious travellers.
Best things to do during the low season:
- Trekking in the Annapurna region, less affected by the monsoon rains
- Whitewater rafting on the swollen rivers
- Visiting the Chitwan National Park to see the wildlife, as there is more activity during the wet season
September to November and March to May – Shoulder Season
This is a great time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds of the high season but still enjoy good weather and plenty of activities. During this season the weather is warm and pleasant with clear skies and the flowers are in full bloom. The temperature ranges from 10°C to 25°C in the lowland regions. It is an excellent time for trekking, hiking, and mountaineering in the Himalayas.
Best things to do during the shoulder season:
- Trekking in the Everest region, as the skies are clearer and the views are stunning
- Visiting the Kathmandu Valley, less crowded than in the high season
- Participating in local festivals, such as the Holi Festival in March
December to February – High Season
The high season in Nepal is from December to February, when the weather is at its driest and clearest.The temperature drops to around 5°C in the lowland regions, and it can go down to as low as -10°C in the high-altitude regions such as the Himalayas. The sky is usually clear, and it is an excellent time for trekking and hiking in the mountainous regions of Nepal. This is the most popular time to visit Nepal. However, be prepared for higher prices and larger crowds, as many people flock to Nepal during this time.
Best things to do during the high season:
- Trekking to Everest Base Camp, as the skies are clear and the temperatures are cold but manageable
- Climbing one of the many peaks in the region, such as Island Peak or Mera Peak
- Visiting the beautiful city of Pokhara, a popular base for trekking and other outdoor activities
When is the rainy season in Nepal?
The Monsoon Season in Nepal is from June to August, during this time the weather can be hot and humid with frequent rainfall. Trekking and outdoor activities may be more challenging during this season due to slippery trails and leeches so while this time of year may not be ideal for everyone, it can be a great choice if you want to avoid crowds and enjoy lower prices and you can still enjoy the beauty of Nepal by visiting places like Pokhara, Chitwan, and Kathmandu, which receive less rainfall.
Top things to do in Nepal by month
January
Celebrate the Maghe Sankranti festival and enjoy winter sports in the mountains
February
Attend the Maha Shivaratri festival and enjoy the clear skies for trekking and mountaineering
March
Participate in the Holi festival and explore the cultural heritage of the Kathmandu Valley
April
Visit the beautiful city of Pokhara and go paragliding or boating on Phewa Lake
May
Trek in the Langtang region and enjoy the colorful rhododendron forests in bloom
June
Explore the jungles of Chitwan National Park and go on a safari to spot wildlife
July
Experience the traditional Newari culture during the Bisket Jatra festival in Bhaktapur
August
Celebrate the Teej festival and enjoy the lush green landscapes during the monsoon season
September
Trek to the Annapurna Base Camp and enjoy clear views of the mountains
October
Attend the Dashain festival and explore the ancient city of Bhaktapur
November
Trek to the Everest Base Camp and witness the stunning views of the world's highest mountain
December
Celebrate Christmas and New Year's in the beautiful city of Kathmandu, with its festive lights and decorations.
When is the best month to visit Nepal?
The best time to visit Nepal is any month from September to November, which is Nepal's peak tourist season. During this time, the weather is perfect, with clear blue skies, pleasant temperatures, and lush greenery everywhere. You can trek to the mountains, go sightseeing, or participate in various festivals and cultural events that take place during this time. The popular festivals during this time are Dashain and Tihar.
You can still enjoy the beauty of Nepal by visiting places like Pokhara, Chitwan, and Kathmandu, which receive less rainfall.
When is the best time to visit Kathmandu?
The best time to visit Kathmandu is during the spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) seasons. During these months, the weather is generally mild with clear skies. Kathmandu is the ideal base from which to explore the mountains or to spend time exploring this fascinating city
Things to do In Kathmandu
- Visit the Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, this iconic stupa is one of the most important Buddhist sites in Kathmandu and offers spectacular views of the city.
- Explore Durbar Square, located in the heart of Kathmandu, Durbar Square is a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to many temples, palaces, and courtyards.
- Visit Pashupatinath Temple, this sacred Hindu temple is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the world and is known for its stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage.
- Stroll around Thamel, Kathmandu's vibrant tourist hub, a colorful and bustling area filled with shops, restaurants, and bars.
- Take a cooking class and learn how to cook traditional Nepalese dishes at a local cooking class and discover the unique flavors and ingredients of Nepalese cuisine.
- Explore the Kathmandu Valley by taking a day trip to explore the beautiful surrounding countryside and visit nearby towns and villages.
- Take a yoga class as Kathmandu is home to many yoga studios, offering classes for all levels and styles.
- Visit the Garden of Dreams, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, the Garden of Dreams is a beautifully landscaped park with stunning architecture and plenty of places to relax and unwind.
- Take a cultural tour and learn more about Nepalese culture and history on a guided cultural tour of the city.
- Try street food by sampling some of the delicious street food in Kathmandu, from momos to chow mein, and discover the vibrant and diverse flavors of Nepalese cuisine.
To conclude, Nepal is a wonderful destination to visit at any time of year, but the best time to go depends on your preferences and interests. Whether you're looking for trekking, wildlife spotting, cultural experiences, or just a relaxing vacation, Nepal has something to offer every traveller. We hope this has helped you plan your trip and get you excited for an adventure in Nepal!