Weather and Climate of Nepal: The Best Trekking Seasons in Nepal.
When thinking about or planning a trip to the Himalayas, the obvious question that strikes is: when is the best time to trek in Nepal? Deciding the best time to trek in Nepal is a tricky affair, as Nepal has immense variation in its climate. Each Himalayan season has its own set of pros and cons. The lowland plains are tropical, the midland hills are temperate, and the high mountains have sub-arctic and arctic conditions. For trekkers, the fall and the spring offer the best clarity (mountain views are a big reason why we travel to Nepal) and mild temperatures with the least precipitation. We are certain that, with our carefully compiled information, you will have a clear idea of the best trekking season. This will provide a more precise understanding and a clearer picture of how to make the most of your time while trekking in Nepal.
Nepal generally experiences four climatic seasons, which are classified as under.
- Spring Season: March-May,
- Summer Season (Monsoon): June-August,
- Autumn/fall Season: September-November
- Winter Season: December-February.
Autumn: September-November.
The months of October and November are considered to be the peak trekking season in Nepal. During the autumn season, the climate is dry, offering the clearest skies and the least rain, and this is harvesting season. The greatest and biggest Nepalese festivals, Dashain and Tihar, also fall in these months. The temperatures are mild, the weather is relatively stable, and the skies remain clear throughout. This gives uninterrupted views of the mountains far and wide. This is regarded as the busiest tourism season. The main tourist centers and trekking trails tend to be crowded with travelers.
Daytime temperature range: September–November, 5–15 degrees.
Night temperature range: September–November, 0–8 degrees.
Winter: December-February.
December through March is the coldest time in the Himalaya if you are here for trekking. The temperatures fall drastically, and it is always a good idea to carry plenty of warm layers for trekking during December. Despite the cold climate, the trails are quaint, and the skies are often crystal clear to capture the magic of the mountains. Most travelers avoid it to avoid the cold. It is very cold in the morning and evening, while the afternoon is pretty sunny.
Day temperature range: December: 3 degrees to 12 degrees
Night temperature range: December: 0 degrees to -5 degrees.
Spring: March-May.
During the spring season, the weather is warm enough and often hazy. It is the second busiest time of the year to trek in Nepal. The days are long, and daytime temperatures are warm to hot, with occasional rain. All along the trails, you will be dazzled by the raging rhododendron blooms. It is a very good time to trek, as snow melts at the upper altitudes.
Daytime temperature range: March to May, 5 degrees to 8 degrees.
Night temperature range: March to May, 8 degrees to 5 degrees.
Summer Season: June to August.
During the summer or monsoon season, which stretches from June to late September, the temperatures remain high with heavy, intermittent rainfall. The heavy rains are an everyday possibility, which flood the trails and cause mud slides. These natural hindrances make it an unfavorable time for trekking in Nepal. However, by the end of the monsoon season, the countryside is adorned in the colors of green, which is soothing and refreshing.
Daytime temperature range: June to August, 8 degrees to 15 degrees.
Night temperature range: June to August: -5 degrees to 10 degrees