Best Travel Time & Climate
Nepal has four distinct seasons, which vary greatly depending on altitude. Choosing the right travel time is crucial — especially for trekking.
Autumn (October–November) — BEST TRAVEL TIME
The undisputed peak season and for good reason: Clear mountain views after the monsoon, dry weather, pleasant temperatures. Trekking routes are in the best condition, visibility is the clearest. Downside: crowded, more expensive, tea houses can be fully booked.
Spring (March–May) — SECOND BEST TRAVEL TIME
Rhododendrons bloom in the mountains (Nepal's national flower!), warm temperatures, good visibility (a bit hazy towards May). Second trekking peak season. In May, it gets very hot in the lowlands (35–40°C).
Summer/Monsoon (June–September)
Rainy season! Daily rainfall, landslides, leeches on trekking routes, obscured mountains. Humid and hot in the lowlands. Not the best travel time, but: Upper Mustang and Dolpo are in the rain shadow and remain dry even during the monsoon. The landscape is lush green. Few tourists, low prices.
Winter (December–February)
Cold in the highlands (passes above 4,000 m can be closed), but perfect for lowland safaris (Chitwan, Bardia) and culture in the Kathmandu Valley. Clear distant views of the mountains. Lower treks (Poon Hill, lower Annapurna) are possible.
Climate Table: Kathmandu (1,350 m)
| Month | Day °C | Night °C | Rainy Days | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 19 | 2 | 1 | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| February | 21 | 4 | 2 | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| March | 25 | 8 | 3 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| April | 28 | 12 | 5 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| May | 30 | 16 | 8 | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| June | 29 | 19 | 15 | ⭐⭐ |
| July | 28 | 20 | 20 | ⭐ |
| August | 29 | 20 | 19 | ⭐ |
| September | 28 | 19 | 13 | ⭐⭐ |
| October | 27 | 13 | 3 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| November | 23 | 7 | 1 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| December | 20 | 3 | 0 | ⭐⭐⭐ |
💡 Tipp
October and November are the dream weeks for Nepal: crystal clear Himalayan views, no rain, perfect trekking conditions. Book flights and tea houses at least 3 months in advance! In spring (March–April), the rhododendrons bloom in the mountains — a natural spectacle that almost surpasses autumn.
