Nepal Climate Guide
| Season |
Months |
Average High (°C) |
Average High (°C) |
Rainfall (mm) |
Highlights |
| Spring |
March-May |
27 |
12 |
50 |
Rhododendrons bloom, pleasant weather for sightseeing |
| Monsoon |
June-August |
28 |
18 |
300+ |
Rice planting celebration, lush landscapes in rain shadow areas |
| Autumn |
September-November |
25 |
13 |
30 |
Dashain & Tihar festivals, clear skies, ideal trekking season |
| Winter |
December-February |
19 |
3 |
30 |
Fewer crowds, occasional snowfall in higher regions, clear skies (except for snowfall) |
Weather in Nepal
The autumn season, around mid-September to mid-November, and early winter, until early December, have ideal conditions to visit Nepal. Skies are typically crystal clear, providing stunning panoramic views. The harsh winter months can be cold, especially at night. With the average temperatures hovering around 6°C, most parts of the Himalayan region are frigid. Despite occasional fogs, the weather is typically clear and provides stunning views. Also, the summertime is the best time to visit Nepal, avoiding the peak-season crowd.
The Nepali landscapes open up, showcasing a wide spectrum of color during the spring with the rhododendron and several other flowers blooming in vibrant colors. However, this period also experiences rising heat and humidity. Temperatures can reach up to 35°C. Monsoon follows spring. Like winter, visitors are sparse during this time of the year. This season is another good time to travel the country, leaving the crowd behind, but heavy rainfall can obstruct your plans, as the hills and mountain regions are prone to landslides.
When is the Best Time to Visit Nepal? Month-by-Month Guide for Traveling in Nepal
December through February
The temperatures in Nepal during the daytime from late December to early February are pleasant. However, the nights can experience a drastic drop in the mercury, especially in the mountain region. January is the coldest month in Nepal; therefore, there are fewer touristy crowds. There are still plenty of sightseeing opportunities, but only a few prefer to trek in the Himalayas. Despite being winter, the hotels and lodges throughout the country are warm and cozy.
Key Highlights
Nepal's wildlife is worth visiting during the dry months of October through April. One of the better-kept national parks is Chitwan, where visitors can see elephants, rhinos, monkeys, and birds.
March to May
Spring arrives in March, a time of rising temperatures and rhododendron blooms. March and April are ideal months for hiking because of their longer days, even though the evenings are still cool. Plan ahead of time because this is a popular time to go. Even though May is one of the warmest months of the year, clouds and rain are expected before the monsoon arrives.
Key Highlights
Holi, the festival of colors, is gaining popularity worldwide. The celebration is observed on the full-moon day of March or April, depending on the lunar calendar, across Nepal.
Rhododendron season (March and April): In the spring, various rhododendron species populate Nepal's hills and slopes, transforming the country's scenery from reds to pinks and whites based on altitude.
Nepal's wildlife is worth visiting during the dry months of October through April. One of the better-kept national parks is Chitwan, where visitors can see elephants, rhinos, monkeys, and birds.
June to August
June through August are monsoon months in Nepal. You will find the humidity rising and the temperatures gradually cooling. Rainfall is more prominent during nighttime. As a result, you can witness stunning morning vistas. While it's not the best time to trek, you can still visit the city, and it's less crowded than during the busy seasons.
Key Highlights:
Rice Planting Celebration: With the advent of the monsoon season, farmers in the hills and the terai plains can be seen busy preparing their fields for the paddy plantation. Farmers in these regions mark the rice planting period and, in recent times, invite guests to partake in the event. The celebration is filled with music, dance, and communal planting. This event gives you a peek into the country's agricultural roots.
Hidden Trails Revealed: While the monsoon rains are likely to obscure plans in most parts of Nepal, you can still explore the beauty of Nepal's "dry pockets" like Upper Mustang and Dolpo. Go on unique treks through the verdant landscapes with fewer crowds than in the dry season.
September to November
Nepal experiences clear skies, crisp air, and breathtaking views from September to November. Additionally, the precipitation is low, and travelers can explore the hiking routes amid clear visibility. After the rain, photographers are rewarded with lush landscapes. This season is the best time to travel to Nepal if you are an avid photographer. You will find autumn foliage glistening in the landscapes throughout Nepal.
Key Highlights:
Nepal's wildlife is worth visiting during the dry months of October through April. One of the better-kept national parks is Chitwan, where visitors can see elephants, rhinos, monkeys, and birds.
September through October is Nepal's busiest and most significant festival season, with the Dashain and Tihar festivals. While Tihar is a five-day festival of lights honoring the Hindu goddess Lakshmi, Dashain is a 15-day celebration of the triumph of virtue over evil. During these celebrations, family get-togethers, feasts, and cultural events take place.
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September to November is the best time for trekking in Nepal. Trekking in the Himalayas is ideal, as you will find clear skies and moderate temperatures. Explore the famed Himalayas and set out on the Annapurna Circuit Trek and Everest Base Camp Trek, as these routes are accessible during this time of the year with breathtaking mountain views.
