Nepal is a country with diverse geography, which means you’ll find a lot of different climates depending on where you are and when you visit. Whether you’re planning to trek in the mountains, explore the cities, or just take in Nepal’s culture, understanding the weather will help you make the most of your trip.
General Climate of Nepal
Nepal’s climate can generally be divided into three regions: the plains, the hills, and the mountains. In the plains (southern Nepal), you’ll experience a subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. The hills (including places like Kathmandu and Pokhara) have a more temperate climate. Finally, the mountains (including the Himalayas) have an alpine climate, with cold winters and cool summers.
Nepal has four distinct seasons: spring (March to May), summer/monsoon (June to August), autumn (September to November), and winter (December to February). Each season has something unique to offer, but it helps to know what to expect during each one.
Best Time to Visit Nepal
For most activities, the best time to visit Nepal is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These months have the most pleasant weather and clear skies, making them ideal for trekking and sightseeing. The monsoon season (June to August) can be challenging for trekking due to rain and muddy trails, but it’s a great time to see the lush landscapes in the countryside. Winter (December to February) is colder but less crowded.
What to Pack for Different Seasons
In spring and autumn, you’ll want lightweight clothes during the day, but bring a warm layer for the evenings as it can get chilly. If you’re trekking, pack a good pair of hiking boots and a jacket for unpredictable weather. During the monsoon season, don’t forget a rain jacket or poncho, as well as insect repellent since there are more mosquitoes. For winter, you’ll need to bring enough warm clothing, especially if you’re going to higher altitudes where it can get very cold.
Nepal’s Weather by Month
Nepal’s Weather in January
January is one of the coldest months in Nepal, especially in the mountains. In Kathmandu, temperatures can drop to around 2°C (36°F) at night but rise to a pleasant 15°C (59°F) during the day. The higher you go, the colder it gets. In the Everest region, temperatures can drop well below freezing. It’s also a dry month, making it easier for trekking, but you’ll need to be prepared for cold conditions.
Nepal’s Weather in February
February is still cold, especially in the mountains, but the days start getting longer and a bit warmer. In the lower regions, like Kathmandu, daytime temperatures hover around 17°C (63°F), while nights are still chilly. It’s also another dry month, so it’s a good time to visit if you’re prepared for cold weather and want to avoid crowds.
Nepal’s Weather in March
March marks the start of spring in Nepal. The weather starts to warm up, especially in the valleys and lower regions. In Kathmandu, daytime temperatures reach around 22°C (72°F). It’s a great time for trekking, with rhododendrons in full bloom along many hiking trails. In higher regions, like the Annapurna Circuit, the snow begins to melt, but it can still be quite cold at night.
Nepal’s Weather in April
April is one of the best months to visit Nepal. The weather is warm in the lower regions, with temperatures often reaching 25°C (77°F) in Kathmandu. In the mountains, the weather is still cool but pleasant for trekking. You’ll find clear skies, and the visibility is excellent during this time, making it perfect for those aiming to spot iconic peaks like Everest.
Nepal’s Weather in May
May sees rising temperatures in Nepal. The hills and plains can get quite hot, with daytime temperatures in Kathmandu hitting 28°C (82°F). It’s still a good time to trek, but you can expect more haze from the heat in lower regions. At higher elevations, you’ll still find cool temperatures. As May progresses, the humidity increases, signaling the approaching monsoon season.
Nepal’s Weather in June
June marks the start of the monsoon season. Early June may still be relatively dry, but by the middle of the month, rains start coming regularly. Kathmandu averages around 22°C to 30°C (72°F to 86°F), while the hills get wetter. Trekking becomes more challenging in most parts of the country due to muddy trails and heavy rain. If you’re a nature lover, though, this is when the fields and forests turn a lush green.
Nepal’s Weather in July
July is peak monsoon season in Nepal. Expect heavy rains, especially in the hills and valleys. Kathmandu can see between 20 and 30 days of rain this month. Daytime temperatures are warm, with highs around 29°C (84°F). The trails are often muddy, and some roads can be flooded or blocked by landslides. It’s not the best time for trekking, but the countryside looks greener than ever. If you’re focusing on indoor activities or short hikes, it can still work.
Nepal’s Weather in August
August is another wet month in Nepal, with continued monsoon rains. In Kathmandu, temperatures stay around 27°C (81°F), but it feels hotter due to the humidity. It’s still difficult for trekking in most regions, although the Mustang and Dolpo regions (in the rain shadow) are drier and better suited for hiking in this season. For non-trekkers, this is a good time to explore cultural sites like temples and museums, which are less crowded.
Nepal’s Weather in September
September marks the end of the monsoon.
The rains start to lighten up, especially in the second half of the month. Kathmandu temperatures hover between 20°C (68°F) to 28°C (82°F), but it feels much less humid. By late September, the skies start clearing, and the trekking season begins in earnest again. It’s a great month to enjoy landscapes that are green and lush after the rains while avoiding the peak tourist rush.
Nepal’s Weather in October
October is probably the best month to visit Nepal. The weather is incredibly pleasant: daytime temperatures in Kathmandu hover around 25°C (77°F), and the skies are clear.
This is the best time for trekking, as popular trails like Everest Base Camp and the Annapurna Circuit are at their most scenic. Be prepared for crowds, especially on popular routes.
Nepal’s Weather in November
November is the last month of Nepal’s peak trekking season. The weather cools down a bit compared to October, with temperatures around 20°C (68°F) in Kathmandu.
The skies are still clear, making it an ideal time for treks.
At higher altitudes, it can get frosty, so pack a warm jacket. It’s also a great month to explore Nepal’s cities and cultural sites, as the tourist crowds start to thin out.
Nepal’s Weather in December
December marks the start of winter in Nepal. It’s still a great time to visit if you’re okay with cold weather. In Kathmandu, temperatures drop to around 2°C (36°F) at night but can still reach 16°C (61°F) during the day. The higher altitudes become extremely cold and snowy.
While trekking is less popular, it’s a good time to explore the cultural sites in Kathmandu and Pokhara since there are fewer tourists around.
Tips for Traveling in Nepal Based on the Weather
Always check the forecast before you head out for trekking or outdoor activities. In the mountains especially, the weather can change quickly, so be prepared for all conditions.
If you’re visiting during the monsoon season, give yourself extra time for travel delays. Landslides and road closures are common, and flights can get cancelled due to bad weather.
Layering your clothes is key, especially if you’re trekking. The mornings and evenings can be cold even in spring and autumn, but the days can get hot.
Finally, no matter when you visit, pack sunscreen and a hat. The sun can be intense, especially at higher altitudes.
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