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 want to find out when the best time to visit Nepal is then 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 of year for you to visit Nepal.
Let's look at the seasons in more detail to help you decide when would be the best time for you to visit Nepal
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. It may not be the best time to visit Nepal if you want to go trekking and hiking in the mountainous regions due to the slippery trails and landslides. However it is a great time to go if you like rafting, kayaking and exploring the Terai region. While a trip to Nepal at this time of year is not as popular with tourists there are still plenty of reasons to visit. The 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.
Shoulder Season
This is a great time to visit Nepal 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.
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 if you want to go trekking and hiking in the mountainous regions then this season is the best time to go though it is the most popular time so be prepared for higher prices and larger crowds, as many people visit Nepal during this time.
When is the Monsoon 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 the best time to go, it can be a great choice if you want to avoid crowds and enjoy lower prices whilst still enjoying the beauty of Nepal by visiting places like Pokhara, Chitwan, and Kathmandu, which receive less rainfall.
Things to do in Nepal by month
January in Nepal
Visiting Nepal in January is a great time for trekking, especially in the lower altitude regions like the Everest Base Camp trek or the Annapurna Circuit. You can also visit Kathmandu, Bhaktapur and Patan to explore the rich cultural heritage of Nepal, including ancient temples, palaces, and vibrant markets.
February in Nepal
February has some of the best weather for trekking in Nepal, with clear skies and moderate temperatures. Consider trekking to regions like Langtang or the Manaslu Circuit. It is also a good month to travel to experience the vibrant festivals of Nepal such as Losar (Tibetan New Year) and Maha Shivaratri, celebrated with colourful rituals and cultural events.
March in Nepal
March is the beginning of the peak trekking season in Nepal and a good time to visit. Enjoy trekking in the Everest region, Annapurna Sanctuary or explore the remote trails of Dolpo. Head to Chitwan National Park or Bardia National Park for wildlife safaris to spot exotic species like tigers, rhinos, and elephants.
April in Nepal
April is a good time to visit Nepal for stunning views of blooming rhododendrons and lush landscapes. Trekking in the Everest region or Upper Mustang is particularly rewarding during this time. April is also a good time to try activities like white-water rafting on the Trishuli River or paragliding in Pokhara for an adrenaline rush.
May in Nepal
May is still a good time for trekking before the monsoon arrives. You can explore off-the-beaten-path trails in the Khumbu region or try a more challenging trek to Kanchenjunga Base Camp. It is also a good month to go to Nepal for colourful cultural festivals like Buddha Jayanti and Bisket Jatra, celebrated with traditional dances, processions, and rituals.
June in Nepal
June is the beginning of the monsoon season, making it ideal for wildlife enthusiasts as the forests are blooming and animals are more active. Enjoy wildlife safaris in the national parks, explore the vibrant culture of Nepal by visiting local villages, participating in traditional activities, and experiencing the rural way of life.
July in Nepal
July is a great time to immerse yourself in Nepali culture by attending local festivals, exploring ancient temples, and indulging in traditional cuisine. While high-altitude treks may be challenging during the monsoon, shorter treks like the Ghorepani Poon Hill trek or the Langtang Valley trek are still possible.
August in Nepal
You can dive deeper into Nepali culture by attending festivals like Janai Purnima and Gai Jatra, which are celebrated with lots of enthusiasm and traditional rituals. Despite the monsoon rains, August has lovely green landscapes and rejuvenated waterfalls, so if you love the scenic beauty of nature then August is a good time to go.
September in Nepal
September marks the end of the monsoon season, so a great time to go on treks like the Manaslu Circuit or the Upper Dolpo trek with clearer skies and fewer crowds. Visiting Nepal in September means you can experience the festive spirit during Dashain, the biggest Hindu festival, celebrated with family gatherings, feasts and religious ceremonies.
October in Nepal
October is one of the best months to go to Nepal for trekking, with clear skies, moderate temperatures and breathtaking views. Trek to iconic destinations like Everest Base Camp or the Annapurna Circuit. Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu Valley, including Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Stupa, and Bhaktapur Durbar Square.
November in Nepal
A trip to Nepal in November means you can enjoy the post-monsoon beauty by trekking to remote regions like Upper Mustang or the pristine trails of Makalu Base Camp. November is also a good month to visit to get involved in more exciting activities like mountain biking, rock climbing or bungee jumping amongst the beautiful scenery of Pokhara and the Annapurna region.
December in Nepal
A visit to Nepal in December means clear skies and panoramic mountain views, so perfect for trekking in the Everest region or exploring the serene landscapes of Langtang.You can also celebrate the holiday season in Nepal by getting involved in traditional festivals, festive markets and experiencing the warmth of Nepali hospitality.
What 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.
What 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
A visit to Nepal won't be complete without spending some time in its capital, Kathmandu.
You can 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. Then you can 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. Take a trip to the sacred Hindu Pashupatinath Temple, one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the world and stroll around Thamel, Kathmandu's vibrant tourist hub, a colourful and bustling area filled with shops, restaurants, and bars.
Finally you can take a cooking class and learn how to cook traditional Nepalese dishes at a local cooking class or a yoga class then visit the Garden of Dreams, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.
When is a good time to trek to Everest Base Camp?
- Spring (March to May) is a good time to go time as the weather is more stable weather with much less rain and clearer skies. Also this time of year is when the temperatures gradually start to rise , flowers start to grow ad the scenery is beautiful. It is a popular time to trek though so just make sure to book accommodation any any permits required, in advance.
- Autumn (September to November) is also another great time to trek to Everest base camp as, again, the weather is more stable with clear skies and amazing visibility, so important for trekking in such a stunning destination, as you will get unbelievable views of the Himalayas and in particular Mount Everest. Trekking in Autumn is a quieter time than in the spring but it is still advisable to book accommodation and permits in advance.
So just to sum up, both spring and autumn are good times of the year to trek to Everest base camp. It is best to avoid trekking during the monsoon season (June to August) as because of heavy rainfall the trails get very muddy so there will be an increased risk of landslides plus you will come up against a lot of leeches during the monsoon season which can be quite unpleasant!. Also winter (December to February) is cold and there is always the possibility of snow, making the trek much more challenging and hazardous.
However, regardless of when you go, just make sure you are adequately prepared with the appropriate permits, hiring a reliable guide and acclimatising properly to the high altitude.
Travel tips for Nepal
- Check if you need a travel Visa for Nepal
- Pack Wisely as Nepal's weather can vary greatly depending on the region and the time of year. Make sure to pack layers, including warm clothing for higher altitudes, sturdy walking shoes and any specialized gear you might need for trekking or outdoor activities.
- Stay Hydrated as whether you're trekking in the mountains of Nepal or exploring the cities, staying hydrated is crucial, especially at higher altitudes. Carry a refillable water bottle and drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.
- Respect Local Customs as Nepal is a culturally rich country with diverse traditions and customs. Be mindful of local etiquette, dress modestly, and always ask for permission before taking photos, especially in religious sites.
- Try Local Cuisine, Nepali food is delicious and diverse, with influences from India, Tibet, and China. Don't miss out on trying momos (dumplings), dal bhat (rice and lentils), and Newari cuisine. Be adventurous and sample street food, but make sure it's from a reputable vendor to avoid stomach issues.
- If you're planning on trekking in Nepal, it's essential to acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness. Take your time ascending, drink plenty of water, and listen to your body. If you start experiencing symptoms of altitude sickness, descend to a lower elevation immediately.
- Bargaining is common in Nepal, especially in markets and small shops. However, remember to bargain respectfully and be mindful of fair prices. It's okay to negotiate, but don't haggle too aggressively.
- Safety in Nepal. Nepal is generally a safe destination for travelers, but it's essential to take precautions like anywhere else. Keep your belongings secure, be cautious when crossing busy streets, and avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas.
- Explore beyond Kathmandu as while Kathmandu is undoubtedly worth exploring, don't limit yourself to the capital city. Nepal is home to breathtaking natural landscapes, including the Himalayas, national parks, and picturesque villages. Consider venturing off the beaten path to discover hidden gems and immerse yourself in the country's stunning scenery.
- Practice Responsible Tourism, Nepal's natural beauty is a precious resource that must be protected. Practice responsible tourism by minimizing your environmental impact, supporting local businesses, and respecting wildlife and nature reserves.
- Stay Flexible as travel in Nepal can be unpredictable at times due to factors like weather and infrastructure. Stay flexible and open-minded, embrace the adventure, and be prepared for unexpected detours along the way.
When is the best time to Travel to Nepal? Conclusion
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!