The best time to visit Nepal is between October and December, when the skies are a clear blue and the views spectacular. The weather remains dry until about April, with temperatures varying between regions.
January and February can be very cold, especially at night, with average temperatures of 6°C. But you’ll be rewarded with clear skies, incredible panoramas and quieter trekking trails, as there are fewer visitors. High altitude trekking is not recommended at this time.
Late spring in May is a beautiful time to travel, with the rhododendrons bursting into bloom. Heat and humidity levels build, with temperatures climbing to 35°C.
The monsoon season arrives in June and lasts until the end of August, with the clouds obscuring the glorious mountain views. The heavy rain and landslides make travel difficult and many places close down, so the country is best avoided at this time.
Nepal celebrates festivals all year, so there is often a festival or pilgrimage taking place. Ask your specialist for more details, as the dates often change from year to year.
Month-by-month guide for travelling in Nepal
Visiting Nepal in December - February
From late December through to February, Nepal's weather is pleasant during the day but temperatures drop significantly at night-time; especially in the mountains. January is the coldest month, but fewer visitors results in quieter sightseeing opportunities. Many hotels and lodges offer fireplaces, blankets and hot water bottles to keep you cosy.
Events & Festivals
- Wildlife in Nepal (October to April): Nepal's wildlife is worth exploring during the drier months. Chitwan is one of the better protected national parks, offering great sightings of rhinos, monkeys, birds and even elephants.
Visiting Nepal in March - May
March marks the beginning of spring, when temperatures increase and rhododendrons bloom. Days are longer during March and April, making them perfect for trekking, although temperatures are still cool at night. It's a popular time to travel, so plan well in advance. May is one of the warmest months of the year but will bring cloud and showers before the monsoon arrives.
Events & Festivals
- Holi festival is becoming more well-known around the world, but it isn't just an Indian festival; it's celebrated across the cities and towns of Nepal every March too.
- Rhododendron season (March and April): Nepal鈥檚 landscapes change colour in the spring as a range of rhododendron species spread across the hills and mountains, changing colour according to altitude from reds to pinks and whites.
- Wildlife in Nepal (October to April): Nepal's wildlife is worth exploring during the drier months. Chitwan is one of the better protected national parks, offering great sightings of rhinos, monkeys, birds and even elephants.
Visiting Nepal in June - August
The monsoon season occurs from June through to August. Days are warm (up to 30°C), wet and with high humidity. Due to Nepal’s topography, rains often occur at night, resulting in beautiful morning scenery. Although we’d advise against trekking at this time of year, city sightseeing is still possible and quieter than peak periods.
Visiting Nepal in September - November
As the monsoon dissipates in September, Nepal welcomes beautiful clear skies, fresh air and incredible views. October and November are two of the best months to visit as dry days make trekking easier and offer good visibility. The verdant landscapes following the rains are ideal for photographers.
Events & Festivals
- Wildlife in Nepal (October to April): Nepal's wildlife is worth exploring during the drier months. Chitwan is one of the better protected national parks, offering great sightings of rhinos, monkeys, birds and even elephants.
Nepal Climate Guide
Destination | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Chitwan National Park | 22°C 21mm | 24°C 13mm | 30°C 16mm | 35°C 30mm | 35°C 87mm | 33°C 329mm | 32°C 467mm | 32°C 467mm | 31°C 287mm | 30°C 85mm | 27°C 7mm | 23°C 3mm |
Kathmandu | 17°C 16mm | 19°C 20mm | 24°C 34mm | 27°C 56mm | 28°C 118mm | 28°C 257mm | 27°C 390mm | 27°C 349mm | 26°C 220mm | 25°C 68mm | 22°C 8mm | 18°C 12mm |
Pokhara | 18°C 27mm | 20°C 19mm | 26°C 49mm | 29°C 96mm | 29°C 254mm | 29°C 527mm | 28°C 738mm | 28°C 694mm | 27°C 378mm | 26°C 120mm | 22°C 5mm | 19°C 4mm |
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Travel advice
Practical tips for travelling to Nepal, from social protocols to guidance on money matters, with a link to the latest FCDO travel advice.
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Trip ideas and travel guides for exploring Nepal
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