Best Time to Visit Nepal - A Seasonal Guide
Overview
Nepal's diverse geography creates varied climates, making timing crucial for your visit. This guide helps you choose the perfect season based on your interests.
Seasons in Nepal
Autumn (September - November)
Best For: Trekking, mountain views, festivals
Autumn is Nepal's premier season. Expect:
- Crystal clear skies
- Stable weather
- Best mountain visibility
- Dashain and Tihar festivals
- Comfortable temperatures
Drawbacks: Peak tourist season, higher prices, crowded trails
Winter (December - February)
Best For: Lower altitude treks, Terai wildlife, budget travel
Winter offers:
- Fewer tourists
- Lower prices
- Clear mountain views
- Best wildlife viewing in Chitwan
- Snow in higher altitudes
Drawbacks: Cold at altitude, some high passes closed
Spring (March - May)
Best For: Trekking, rhododendrons, Everest region
Spring brings:
- Warming temperatures
- Rhododendron blooms
- Good trekking conditions
- Holi festival
- Wildlife activity
Drawbacks: Increasing haze, occasional storms
Monsoon (June - August)
Best For: Budget travel, lush landscapes, Trans-Himalayan regions
Monsoon characteristics:
- Heavy rainfall
- Lush green landscapes
- Few tourists
- Best for Mustang and Dolpo
- Agricultural activity
Drawbacks: Trails can be dangerous, leeches, limited views
Activity-Based Recommendations
Trekking
- Best: October-November
- Good: March-May, September
- Avoid: June-August
Wildlife Safari
- Best: February-April
- Good: October-November
- Avoid: July-September
Mountaineering
- Best: April-May (pre-monsoon)
- Good: September-October
- Avoid: December-February, June-August
Cultural Tours
- Best: Year-round
- Peak festivals: October-November, February-March
Temperature Guide
Kathmandu (1,400m)
- Summer: 20-30°C
- Winter: 2-20°C
Pokhara (800m)
- Summer: 22-32°C
- Winter: 8-20°C
Everest Base Camp (5,364m)
- Summer: -5 to 10°C
- Winter: -20 to -10°C
Final Recommendation
For most travelers, October-November offers the ideal combination of weather, visibility, and cultural experiences. However, each season has its unique charm—the key is matching your interests with the right time.