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Best Time to Trek in Nepal
It’s challenging to decide the best time for trekking in Nepal. The summer monsoon brings lushness that might attract you more towards treks in different regions of this mountain country, while it is not the most facilitative period for trekking given the rain issue. Autumn has better visibility because insects and dusts get cleaned off by rain washing them away. The winter may not always mean piles of snow; nevertheless, there are cool temperatures, so simply wear warm clothes to stay warm during extreme cold months like in January.
One of the most fascinating things you will notice when you visit Nepal is trekking across picturesque landscapes. It doesn’t matter how old you are or what kind of person you consider yourself, as there would be a trekking trail just right for you. Make a reservation the next time you feel like planning a dream vacation to an exotic place away from it all with the Himalaya Discovery.
This country has diverse climates—warmer southern parts contrasting snowy peaks like Mt. Everest at its higher altitudes; and also includes beautiful green gardens full of flowers and birds singing all year round. The regions of the highest mountains on the planet and the beautiful dense landscape are located here. The lowlands have a humid and tropical climate, the middle hills are cool, and the Himalayan area is cold. The mountain view is clearer and more majestic in fall and spring. Trekking in Nepal is possible at any time of the year, depending on the path and the Himalayan geography of different trekking destinations.
Several travelers have an old dream of hiking in the superb Himalayas, but it has always been difficult for them to determine the best time to go. The Nepal trekking area has always been a tough nut to crack because of its vastness both in the land coverage and unpredictable swings in the weather adjustments. However, a strong knowledge of what the weather conditions are like there would be really helpful in finding the right time to hike or climb mountains, including the main event of a lifetime – Everest.
This article below helps you to choose the best trekking season for the different treks and gives a clear answer r on the most asked question by the tourists “ What is the Best time to Trek in Nepal”?
When is The Best Time to Trek in Nepal?
Autumn and spring are the best seasons for trekking in Nepal. Moreover October and November months are the peak times for trekking in Nepal that comes after the monsoon. A trek to a high-altitude country like Nepal during these times will be better as it will be warmer, and the temperatures will remain constant throughout the day. At this time of the year, the sky normally remains clear, and adventurers are often mesmerized by stunning periods.
In Nepal, the months from mid-September to mid-December are also considered the best time for trekking in the Himalayas. These periods are marked by favorable climate conditions with moderately warm temperatures and the freshness of mountains. Besides that, you can also look into some of the short and easy hikes from Kathmandu like Chisapani Nagarkot Trek during winter. These short excursions provide cultural information on how the remote Nepalese villagers lived.
Spring and Autumn expeditions to the Himalayas are much more inviting, accompanied by favorable conditions. In the spring in Nepal, various sorts of flowers blossom on the trees.
Nepal, known for its varied regions, has different weather patterns. It has unpredictable weather, so plan your trek wisely. Despite the good hiking months, storms, rain and snow are usual in the mountains.
Different Trekking Seasons in Nepal
Spring (March to May) – Warm and Clear Trekking Conditions
If you would like to trek under the perfect weather conditions that the Himalayas can offer, plan to visit Nepal during spring. The months between March and May see the changing seasons, from cool winter too cold to warm and dry conditions. You will also notice that winters usually disappear starting from the early days of March down here at lower levels.
The temperature is generally around the sixties Fahrenheit in the daytime, while it may fall below zero at night. There is no need to wear a heavy coat during this period; a jacket, hat, and gloves remain necessary. One of the most common things many people do during spring is hiking along trails since it is during this season when hiker-friendly conditions prevail, thus giving us ample time for such activities.
The sight is great; one can see far beyond valleys. In the low-lying areas, during springtime, forests are covered by white and pink rhododendrons. Pink plus red spots of these flowers appear on them in warmer seasons, changing whole mountainsides in contrast. A hike through blazing rhododendron forests with snow-covered mountain tops on the heavenly background is an experience impossible to forget.
Among the popular spring trekking routes, both Mardi Himal Trek and Ghorepani Poonhill Trek are the foremost. This season is a window of approximately stable and mild weather conditions for summiting the highest peaks.
Nonetheless, spring is the start of the main expedition. Most adventurers hardly reach Nepal’s famed trekking routes before the end of March. In case of a visit in mid-March and early April, there are very few people around, unlike in autumn, when it’s packed with tourists. In springtime, the Himalayas reveal their incomparable wondrousness through the peacefulness and uncrowded trails. Thus, the long walks during spring have finer climate conditions, with fewer travelers en route.
Summer (June to August) – Hot and Wet Monsoon Trekking
The summer monsoon period of Nepal is from June to August. Trekking can be an enjoyable activity even if the summer months are associated with high temperatures and humidity. The significant advantage of this trend is less crowds because people usually dislike rain and traveling. Also, the minus point is the irregular afternoon showers and sometimes rains. However, with little foresight, summer trekking can be enjoyable.
Prepare for rain delays and unusual routes because of landslides and floods. Allow extra days in your travel plan, and be ready to modify your itinerary if needed. The rain will lead you to choose a different pass or take a different trail. Your strongest asset is to be flexible and calm. Although it generally rains in the afternoon, there’s generally less chance of rainfall in the early morning. Nevertheless, the Upper Mustang and Dolpa regions are the best places to trek during summertime. Likewise, Manang and Annapurna Circuit also have a lower chance of rainfall.
If you are a rain lover and do not like an overcrowded hiking trail, you can also hike in the summer. There is just you, the silence and the beauty of the views of the vast green of the fields. Furthermore, the summer is also a perfect season to discover the cities. Kathmandu Valley, Lumbini and Pokhara are some of the nearby towns.
Fall (September to November) – Cool and Crisp Trekking Weather
The most favorable trekking season in Nepal runs from September to November. The monsoon season has gone. The mountains are now green, and the sky is blue. Also, the temperature is good for hiking. It is less crowded as many of the summer crowds are gone.
The daytime temperature in late autumn can range from 20 degrees Celsius, while the night temperature can dip to 10 degrees Celsius. The weather will be on your side then because you can travel long distances without overheating, and the weather will be cool. Some days present a big difference between the day and night temperature, so be aware of these conditions. The sky now is blue due to the monsoon having cleared out, and autumn provides some of the most beautiful views of the Himalayas. Rise early to see incredible sunrises over mountain peaks. During the day, great Himalayan peaks like Everest, Annapurna, and Langtang seem to be following you. The cool air and the impressive white peaks stand out against the blue skies.
During the autumn, there are usually festivals held in Nepal. Dashain and Tihar are some of the most significant ceremonies in October and November. You will see men and women dressed in their colorful traditional clothes going to the temple for ritual ceremonies. Moreover, in mountain regions of Nepal, different celebrations are held, like the Mani Rimdu festival, etc. They have different conventional dances. Autumn treks, however, provide an insight into local customs and spirituality.
Nepal is an excellent place for trekking in autumn with its cool weather, mountain views, and cultural events. As such, conditions suit all trails, including one from the Everest base camp or other routes within the Annapurna areas. There is no better season than this one for any long or short trek in Nepal, where you get to enjoy nature and take part in the traditional events held during falls.
Winter (December to February) – Cold but Clear Trekking Conditions
The winter season in Nepal ranges from December to February. Low temperatures are experienced, but the sight of mountains is usually. The dry and cold air facilitates lower chances of rain and snowfall. Awesome views and quiet trails are some of the benefits of winter trekking to bold trekkers who can handle frosty weather.
During winter, the Himalayas come out above the clouds and show their greatness. The Everest, Annapurna, and Manaslu magnificent peaks look like they were made of gold because they shine bright under sunlight. A photography enthusiast would be thrilled by the clear atmosphere and snowy mountains providing great angles.
With fewer crowds in the off-peak months, places like Base camp treks for Mt. Everest and Annapurna are much quieter than during other seasons. Tea houses in the lower region still keep their doors open all through, albeit running on low numbers of people, making them more modest than usual. The trek may go well when coming down to the Himalayan path due to assistance provided by residents met en route.
How to Choose the Right Treks In Different Seasons?
Spring (March to May)
From March to May is one of the nicest times of the year for treks. For Mount Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit, the ideal time so far happens in April/May since the climate is quite warm in those extremely high regions. To escape the humidity, Langtang Valley and Annapurna Base Camp may be trekked from early April through late June. People prefer to walk the way around Manaslu Circuit during March and April as this time is a less crowded period. In the spring and March, there are fewer trekkers, but on average, the weather is more harsh than over 4,000 m. May trails may be greener and prettier, but usually, there is an afternoon rain. Whether it is the start of a season or its ending, book treks in time, at least for popular sections.
Summer (June to August)
The summer monsoon season from June to August restricts trekking possibilities in Nepal due to rain and the risk of landslides; however, particular treks can be undertaken during this time. A suitable choice during summertime is the Upper Mustang Trek since it falls under the Himalayan rain shadow, providing semi-arid landscapes. You might want to consider doing it in June or July before monsoon clouds obscure the visibility of Mountains.
Trekkers will find the Nar Phu Valley and Kang La Pass Trek better suited for walking during the monsoon months of July and August, as opposed to the other sections, which are affected by heavy rains. Lower Dolpo Trek, in the western parts of Nepal, can be walked in July and August when compared to other sides that are more severe in terms of the amount of rainfall.
Autumn (September to November)
The finest period to trek in Nepal is autumn (September to November), when the sky is clear, and the clouds do not obstruct the beautiful mountains. The Everest Region trek, like Everest Base Camp and Gokyo trails, can actually be completed in September before tourists start rushing in late September. Similarly, Manaslu Circuit and Langtang Valley with off-beat routes are very much the same.
The Annapurna Circuit and Everest Base Camp trails are particularly popular in October. The Manaslu Circuit might also be completed peacefully since it is not so crowded. Other alternative routes possible for tourists include treks on Everest, Annapurna, plus Langtang during November.
Winter (December to February)
From December to February, wintertime of the year, Nepal experiences a sudden drop in temperature and most of the high elevations are covered with heavy snow. On the other hand, some trekking trails located at low altitudes are still transverse. The Mardi Himal Trek (less than 4500m) and the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek (3210m) provide excellent weather with fewer people in the December/January months. Khopra Ridge Trek (3640m) and Pikey Peak Trek (4065m), can be done in late winter as its temperature is very calm at the end of February. In the winter season, trekkers can join a trekking tour in the national parks of Nepal, including Chitwan, to watch the rhinos, elephants and tigers in their natural habitat.
What Gear and Clothings To Pack As per the Different Season for Trekking in nepal?
When you go hiking in Nepal, you will be comfortable with clothes and accessories that can be used in different conditions. Interestingly, the temperature would change in accordance with the season and the height.
Spring (March, April, May)
People choose hiking in the spring because it is warm and rhododendrons are blooming. As a result, remember to pack some layers since you will experience both hot and cold temperatures. Make sure that you bring with you underwear leggings made of some light material like nylon or lycra so that you don’t get any sweat in your pants.
Make certain that you have light hiking pants, t-shirts, and underclothes which can be put on for both day and night treks. During your trip, make sure you have a fleece jacket along with a down jacket; these will keep you warm in any type of cold condition or atmosphere. Stylish or trendy warm shoes, gloves, scarves, and hats worn well can become essential to staying warm when it comes to areas with high altitudes.
Prepare these too – sunblock, sunglasses, a day bag, a sleeping bag, hiking gear including poles and headlamps.
Summer (June to August)
Summertime brings hot and humid conditions to the plains and cooler nights in the mountains. Carry very lightly, and wear clothes made of breathable fabric like shorts, t-shirts, tank tops, and convertible pants. Bring a rain jacket, fleece, a down jacket, a hat, and gloves for the evenings. Trekking poles will give you good support on sloping paths. Choose a summer-weight sleeping bag. Bring sunglasses, strong sun protection, insect repellent and a high-SPF lip balm with you. A portable fan or a cooling towel will help you get through the heat.
Fall (September to November)
Autumn sunshine is often accompanied by potential rain. Therefore, include these items in your kit: waterproof pants, hiking pants, thermal underlayers, fleece and down jackets, sweaters, a hat, gloves, and a scarf. For really cold nights, we recommend getting a winter-rated sleeping bag and a sleeping pad. A pair of hiking poles will help you stay balanced while walking along the trail.
Never forget your sunglasses, sunscreen, and a headlamp with some extra batteries. Pack a raincoat, a poncho, or a traveller’s umbrella just in case it rains. Layering clothes is important while travelling here; get garments you can easily put off or put on since the climate in Nepal is variable. Having proper attire and gear makes it possible for people to enjoy themselves all year round, depending on the time of the year at hand.
FAQS on Best Time to Trek In Nepal
What is the best month to hike in Nepal?
Trekking in Nepal is best experienced during the pre-monsoon month, which is from September to November during the autumn season. In Spring, the environs can be a little colder in the afternoon, but after the monsoons, the next you can expect this time is sunny, clear and cloudless skies.
Which is the best month to visit Nepal?
The best months to visit Nepal are from October to December where one can enjoy trekking activities in clear skies . The climate stays dry all the way up to April, but the temperature may vary depending on the area.
Which month is best for Annapurna base camp trek?
The recommended period for the Annapurna Base Camp trek is from March to June and from the end of September to November. By Spring, people can hope for sunshine, warm weather and flowering rhododendrons. The weather also remains clear, especially during the autumn season, together with favorable temperatures.
Final Say
Well, that’s about the best time to trek in Nepal. While everyone has his/her own favorite time of the year to trek, it mostly depends on the trek one is planning to undertake. For perfect visibility, if the mountains interest you, then the best time to be here is the month of October and the first week of November. Moreover, Rain is not that much of a concern to you. Then the monsoon season that comes once a year provides beautiful green scenery to the region despite the inconvenience.
From the detailed information on the Best time to trek in Nepal, you will find that there are no shortages of time in which you can launch on a trekking adventure of your preference. It is, however, important to prepare well for the type of equipment that is going to be used and look at things from a more realistic perspective.
Trekking in Nepal is wonderful all year long, but the reality of the tourist season cannot be totally negated. Well, if you are planning to go to Nepal for some other treks, then you should know when is the best time to travel. For further information about the trekking and tour in Nepal, please feel free to contact us.