International Travel Nepal

Best Time to Visit Nepal: Seasons & Weather Guide

Best time to visit Nepal
Best time to visit Nepal
Written by Just Wravel

Imagine standing amidst the majestic peak of the Himalayas, where every season paints a different canvas of nature’s artistry. From the vibrant spring blooms to the winters’ serene solitude, Nepal attracts many travelers and adventurers to uncover its timeless beauty. But when is the best time to visit Nepal? The best times are the spring months of March and April and the autumn months of October and November to travel to Nepal. During this time, the clear skies with a beautiful spread of twinkling stars will make you fall in love with the destination. However, every season has something different to offer. Here’s a complete guide on every season to make the most of your next holiday in Nepal. 

A local woman in Nepal
A local woman is carrying greenery in a basket in the Upper Marsyangdi valley

Best Time To Visit Nepal For Indians

The best time to visit Nepal for Indians is during the autumn and spring seasons i.e., from March to April and October to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant, with cool weather making the best time for outdoor explorations. Spring season welcomes you with vibrant, blooming rhododendrons and clear skies, making it ideal for hiking and trekking.

This season also has perfect and comfortable temperatures suitable for witnessing the beauty of the Himalayas. On the other hand, the autumn season is known for crystal clear views and stable weather for those who wish to trek in the Annapurna and Everest regions. Additionally, you should avoid the heavy monsoon season, which lasts from June to August. Planning your trip to Nepal during the best month to visit Nepal will enhance your overall experience. 

Season Month Best For
Spring SeasonMarch To MayAll kinds of trekking and clear views of the high peaks like Annapurna and Everest
Summer SeasonJune To SeptemberAdventure activities like paragliding and river-rafting
Autumn SeasonOctober to NovemberMountain climbing and wildlife
Winter MonthDecember to FebruaryFewer tourists and Cultural festivals 

Nepal in Spring Season (March To May)

spring season in Nepal
Violet flower blossoming in the spring season in Nepal

Spring season is one of the most popular times to visit Nepal, as you will be welcomed by cool afternoons, long evenings, and refreshing showers. It is one of the best seasons to visit Nepal if you want to explore greenery and mind-blowing landscapes around the country. The spring season in Nepal is all about blooming rhododendrons, pristine lakes, and the different shades of colors that paint the sky. The blooming flowers make trekking trails like Annapurna and Everest more beautiful. These are also the months when families and kids are on vacation, making it easier for them to travel to various holy shrines like Pashupatinath Temple and the natural beauty around the lake city of Pokhara. 

Out of these months, April is the best month to visit Nepal. You can head out of Kathmandu to Trisuli River to enjoy the cooler temperatures and fresh air. This is also an excellent time to satiate your inner adventurer and engage in some hiking and trekking. You can take the Mardi Himal Trek with the starting point in Pokhara Kade, as this trail is dotted with magnificent views and tea houses to relax after a long day of adventure. Another reason you should visit Nepal during spring is the festivals like Holi, where you can expect a riot of colors, music, bonfires, and lots of fun with locals. 

This season also marks the beginning of Nepal’s first two peak trekking seasons as some higher altitude trails become accessible again. May is the spring season’s last month, and the temperature begins to climb with hot and sticky conditions. 

Top Places to Visit From March To May

Visiting the Himalayan region in the spring is like exploring a paradise with the magnificent view of the wildflowers blooming in the altitude and routes covered in green forest with rhododendrons. Some of the best places in the Himalayan region are the Everest base camp trek, which offers a clear view of Mount Everest and other peaks. Annapurna is the tenth-highest mountain in the world. 

Moreover, Himchuli Barahi Shikhar, Glacier Dom, Gangapurna, Machhapuchhre, Annapurna South, Annapurna I, and Annapurna III on the way, you will see a variety of flora and fauna during the spring. There are many places like Chitwan, Bardia, Lumbini, Janakpur, and many more where you can explore the wildlife in Nepal. The Pashupatinath temple in Kathmandu and many other temples around the city make the trip incredibly beautiful and offer a wide range of natural and cultural experiences, making it one of the best times to visit Nepal. 

Nepal in Summers (June to September) 

Paragliding in Annapurna region during summers in Nepal
Paragliding in Annapurna region of Pokhara in Nepal during summer season

The summer season in Nepal spans from June to September, bringing the country’s monsoons. In higher altitudes like Kathmandu and Pokhara, temperatures are more moderate, making them great destinations for summer travel. While most travelers consider autumn the best time to visit Nepal, summer can be equally appealing, especially for those who enjoy fewer crowds and greener landscapes. If occasional rain showers do not deter you, the summer season provides an opportunity to explore Nepal in a quieter and more serene atmosphere. 

The landscape is at its most vibrant, waterfalls are in full flow, and there’s a fresh sense of tranquility. Since trekking and hiking activities are halted for the season due to the muddy and slippery trails, the best you can do is visit local museums, try local cuisines, visit cafes, and soak in the beauty of Nepal peacefully. 

Top Places to Visit From June to September 

If you plan to visit Nepal during the summer, there are a few places you should take advantage of to make the most of your trip. You should visit Kathmandu; despite the occasional rain, there is a lot to explore. Swayambhunath, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and Pashupatinath Temple are some places to visit in the city. You should consider Pokhara if you love outdoor activities like boating, paragliding, and hiking.

Although it gets hot during the summer, early morning safaris at Chitwan National Park offer you a chance to see rare animals like the one-horned rhinoceros and Bengal tiger. Other places like Nagarkot let you catch breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks during the clear skies, and Lumbini, which is the birthplace of Buddha, is a year-round pilgrimage site. 

Nepal in Autumn (October to November)

Beautiful Mustang in Nepal during winter season
Beautiful Mustang in Nepal during winter season

With the Autumn season in Nepal, the canvas of the landscape changes with more vibrant colors like orange, pink, and red. This season is considered the best time to travel in Nepal, attracting adventurers and nature lovers worldwide. After the monsoon rains, the skies clear up, providing stunning views of the Himalayan peaks. The weather during this time is neither too hot nor too cold, with pleasant daytime temperatures. Autumn is considered the best time to visit Kathmandu, where you can explore its cultural sites comfortably as you can still go around Durbar Square and visit UNESCO World Heritage sites without discomfort. 

Autumn is Nepal’s peak trekking season, with clear skies and crisp air. You can also witness the breathtaking mountain views. Popular trekking routes like Annapurna Circuit and Everest Base Camp are bustling with trekkers during this time. The weather is favorable for hikes, offering an unmatched opportunity to explore Nepal’s natural wonders. This is also the festive time in Nepal, which has the two most important festivals in the country – Dashain and Tihar. Dashain is the biggest festival in Nepal and celebrates the victory of good over evil, making it the best time to visit Nepal and enjoy the festivities with locals. Moreover, Autumn is also an excellent time for birdwatchers as many migratory birds make their way to Nepal during this time. 

Top Places To Visit From October to November 

During the autumn, Nepal becomes a treasure trove of places to visit and enjoy its unique charm and experience its beauty at its finest. Kathmandu is one such place to explore ancient temples like Swayambhunath Temple (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa, with pleasant weather that makes it comfortable. Pokhara has become a place for nature lovers to delight with stunning mountain views and places like Phewa Lake, Sarangkot, and World Peace Pagoda. Annapurna Circuit and Everest Base Camp Trek are undoubtedly Nepal’s most popular trekking routes from October to November. You cannot forget Lumbini in this pleasant season for exploring various monasteries, stupas, and gardens. 

Nepal in the Winter Season (December to February)

Darshain festival of Nepal during autumn season
Darshain festival of Nepal during autumn season

The country looks like a magical winter wonderland if you plan to visit Nepal during winter. Everyone can enjoy something in this Himalayan country, from snow-capped peaks to peaceful trekking trails. The weather in Nepal in December is cold, but it is also clear and dry. This makes it an ideal time for sightseeing and trekking, especially for those who enjoy crisp winter mornings and stunning panoramic views with snow.

If you plan to visit high-altitude places like Everest or Annapurna Circuit, the temperatures can drop significantly as low as -10°C at night. Just remember to pack warm clothes and layer yourself smartly. The mild temperatures in lower altitude regions like the Langtang Valley and Ghorepanu poon hill make it one of the best times to visit Nepal. 

One of the significant events during this time is Yomari Punhi, a Newar Festival celebrated in Kathmandu valley. Tibetan Buddhist communities celebrate the Losar, Tibetan New Year festival in the more remote Himalayan region. These festivals are an excellent opportunity to enjoy the local traditions and culture fully, as this time of year is considered the off-season, making it easier to explore popular attractions like Kathmandu’s heritage sites, Durbar Square, and temples without large crowds. With frozen streams and lakes, the whole country is bathed in sheets of white, which looks like a timeless beauty. 

Top Places to Visit From December to February 

If you plan your trip to Nepal from December to February, get ready to enjoy fewer crows with the cheapest time to travel to Nepal. Chitwan National Park is one such fantastic place that you cannot miss visiting to witness the one-horned rhino, royal Bengal tiger, exotic flora and fauna, and different bird species. Pokhara and Bandipur are famous cities in Nepal where you can experience Annapurna Peak’s local culture and majestic views. The winter treks you can consider in these months are the Ghorepani Poonhill Trek, Everest Cultural Trek, Langtang, and Gosainkunda Trek. 

Best Season For Nepal Tour 

The best seasons to visit Nepal are Autumn and spring, with the best weather and clear skies. During this time, you can enjoy various activities like trekking, hiking, and climbing to make the most of your trip. What makes it one of the best times to visit Nepal is that you can see the Himalayan ranges like Everest, Annapurna Peak, and other peaks with your naked eye. So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Nepal during this time to enjoy the beauty of this country at its best. 

FAQs

What is the best time to visit Kathmandu, Nepal?

The best time to visit Kathmandu is during the autumn (October to November) and spring (March to May) seasons. Fall offers clear skies and pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing and trekking in the nearby regions. This period also coincides with Nepal’s significant festivals like Dashain and Tihar, adding cultural richness to your trip. Spring is perfect for experiencing blooming rhododendrons and milder temperatures, making it great for outdoor activities like trekking or visiting temples.  

Q2: What is the hottest month in Nepal?

June is typically the hottest month in Nepal, with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 30°C in the lower regions, while higher altitudes like Kathmandu experience milder heat. In Kathmandu, temperatures can hover around 25°C to 30°C. The Terai region, which is closer to the Indian border, sees the most intense heat during this month. 

What is the cheapest time to visit Nepal?

The cheapest time to visit Nepal is during the monsoon season, which runs from June to September. Fewer tourists visit during this period due to the heavy rainfall, making accommodations and flights more affordable. If you’re willing to brave the rain, you can get excellent deals on hotels and tours. However, trekking and outdoor activities may be limited due to slippery trails and cloud cover. The winter months (December to February) can also be budget-friendly, though some higher-altitude areas may be inaccessible.

Do Indians need a Visa to travel to Nepal?

Indian citizens do not need a visa to travel to Nepal. Thanks to a particular treaty between India and Nepal, Indian nationals can freely travel between the two countries without a visa. Indians can enter Nepal using a government-issued identity card, such as a passport, voter ID, or Aadhaar card.

What is the best time to visit Nepal?

The best time to visit Nepal is from October to November. During this time, the weather is dry, the skies are clear, and the temperatures are moderate, making it ideal for trekking and exploring the diverse landscapes of Nepal. This period also offers stunning mountain views and lush greenery. Another good time is from March to May when spring flowers bloom, and the weather remains comfortable for travel.

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