Nepal tourism – The Best time to go Trekking in Nepal
For most hikers going to Nepal is one for the bucket list. Nepal tourism has so much to offer and each season has its own beauty. Every traveler has their own style, some want perfect weather and don’t mind the crowds, others prefer beating the crowds by visiting in the off season. We have a look at the pros and cons of trekking Nepal in every season.
QUICK FACTS
● High Season: Spring (March-May) and Autumn (mid-September – November)
● Low Season: Summer / Wet season (June to mid-September) and Winter (December to February)
Trekking in Nepal during Spring
Visiting Nepal in Spring has many advantages. The days are rather warm, and the nights are cool. Depending on when you visit the ice might still be melting off the mountain tops, leaving you some snow-capped mountain views as well as raging rivers and stunning waterfalls.
The return of spring also brings new life. The hills are greener, filled with blooming flowers and the iconic Rhododendrons are a sight to behold.
During Spring most treks will be open. Spring is also a time for celebration as the traditional Nepali new year festival of Bisket Jatra Navavarsha is celebrated in April.
Spring is the best time for spotting wildlife while trekking such as the elusive Red Panda. With cool days, the red panda is more likely to come out to sunbathe on large branches.
● Average Temperature (Kathmandu): 8 – 29° C
● Rainfall: 10 – 70 mm
Nepal travel during Summer
With the Summer comes the rains. While this washes away the dust and fills every inch of landscape with stunning greenery, it can also close up many of the higher altitude hikes due to landslide risks. Summer, however, is the best season to visit treks that lie in the rain shadow. These treks are somewhat sheltered from the rain, and many people don’t know this.
The top treks to consider during summer are the Annapurna Circuit, Manaslu trek, Upper Mustang trek, and the Nar Phu Valley Trek. For the best views during summer and lush greenery, we recommend the Marsyangai Valley and Tilicho Lake, which run along the Annapurna Circuit. You won’t be disappointed.
The summer sees fewer tourists in general, meaning absolute serenity in the mountains. Together with a knowledgeable tour guide, you can explore these majestic mountain treks in solitude.
● Average Temperature (Kathmandu): 17 – 29° C
● Rainfall: 129 – 239 mm
Nepal during Autumn
Autumn is undoubtedly the best season for Nepal tourism. With clear skies and very little rainfall, you will enjoy unparalleled views of the mountains. During Autumn, all treks are open and you can have your pick. We recommend doing the higher altitude hikes, such as Langtang Ganja La Pass Trek, as the other hikes can be done during the rest of the year.
Another advantage that the boost in tourism brings is that the locals will be in full swing offering the best the area has to offer. It is also a time for celebration as Nepal’s biggest festival, Dashain, is celebrated. At the end of October or the beginning of November the festival of lights, Diwali, is also celebrated in Nepal, which is a sight to behold.
● Average Temperature (Kathmandu): 7 – 19° C
● Rainfall: 7 – 67 mm
Trekking during Winter
During winter many of the treks will be closed, even some of the villages become inaccessible. There are however a few treks that will offer stunning views and a completely different experience. Depending on the recommendation of a tour operator, you can consider the Everest Base Camp Trek, Annapurna Circuit Trek, Langtang Trek, Ghorepani trek and the Helambu Trek.
Winter is the perfect time to experience the grandeur of the mountains. To realize how small we truly are as these mountains close up and allow no one in or out.
● Average Temperature (Kathmandu): 2 – 11° C
● Rainfall: 0 – 8 mm
Each season has its own charm. If you are considering trekking in Nepal, don’t let the season hold you back. From the flowery fields of spring to the snowy passes of winter, there is always something different and exciting to experience. Each will take your breath away.
