Best time to visit Nepal 2023

Nepal is a wonderland for travelers, but only when visited at the right time. Despite being a small country, Nepal has a wide range of elevations and climates varying from the world’s highest peak to lowlands in Terai. Since it’s a matter of making or breaking your beautiful journey, CoreTreks has made sure to answer all your questions regarding the best time to visit Nepal in this article.

Nepal is in its glory during the spring and autumn/fall seasons. Since the weather is moderate with clear blue skies during these seasons, book your trip to Nepal accordingly. Our travel experts suggest it is possible to have a memorable trip in Nepal all through the year. Here we have boiled down the best season to visit Nepal to help you get some idea of when to travel to Nepal.

To be fair, all seasons have their significance and bring out their own nostalgia, but if we really had to pick the best time to visit Nepal or the best seasons to visit Nepal then between October and December during autumn/fall would be our pick as the views are spectacular and the weather remains dry until about April.

January and February can get very cold comparatively but it also means quieter trekking trails with less traffic and mesmerizing panoramas. Vegetation during the spring season is at its best. The lust green forests and blooming rhododendrons fill your heart with joy. The heat and humidity levels start building up in May and continue until the monsoon rain which arrives in June. The mountains are obscure and the surrounding gets gloomy.

When deciding the best time to visit Nepal, keep in mind what you desire from the trip to Nepal. Whatever the reason might be, always prioritize the mountain visibility, clear skies, moderate temperature, and avoid rainy seasons.

Nim Prasad Bhatta, Travel Expert / CEO of CoreTreks

Seasons in Nepal

Nepal has a wide range of elevations and climates, making it difficult to predict exact weather conditions during certain times of the year. The regional differences can make temperature and weather vary tremendously between regions. So, considering that the followings are seasons in Nepal and what you can expect during these times.

Winter in Nepal

Bringing in cold and dryness, winter in Nepal sees occasional snowfall in the mountains. Winter is one of the best seasons for sightseeing with the vivid Himalayas above 8,000m. The skies are clear, giving you the most of Nepal without any obstruction.

Tips for visiting Nepal in winter:

• Activities that include physical movements such as cycling and hiking are best for the winter season.
• Explore low-altitude destinations such as Chitwan National Park and Bardia National Park to experience moderate temperatures even in winter.
• Layer up with multiple jackets if you have decided to go trekking in the mountains.
• Try some of the Nepali cuisines and tea.

Spring in Nepal

Spring in Nepal is considered to be stable for trekkers in Nepal. The Himalayas are warmer offering pristine scenery making it a great time for trips such as Manaslu Circuit Trek, Three Passes Trek, Annapurna Circuit Trek, and many more. The capital, Kathmandu gets warmer as well. Go for a shopping spree before your journey if you wish.

Tips for visiting Nepal in spring:

• Temperatures could still vary in spring, so be sure to pack down jackets for layering up when needed.
• Explore the rich vegetation and blooming flowers along with Nepal’s famous Rhododendrons.
• Try visiting during Holi (the festival of colors), one of Nepal’s biggest Festivals.
• If you want to face lesser crowds, choose some time in early or late spring.

Summer in Nepal

Summer is always good for traveling. The weather is hot and humid and it tends to rain on most days. The lush foothills and blooming wildflowers make it enjoyable for travelers. There is a possibility of flight delay or cancellation due to cloudy weather, so we recommend you add in an extra day or two for flexibility. Visit places such as Upper Mustang, Nar Phu, Upper Dolpo, Limi Valley, and some other higher areas. The infamous Everest region treks are highly recommended.

Tips for visiting Nepal in summer:

• Various interesting festivals occur during summer including Dancing with Shamas (August Full Moon), Dhan Ropain (Rice planting festival), and more. So make sure you attend at least one of them.
• Be sure to add in an extra couple of days to your vacation as there is a possibility of flight delays or even cancellation.
• Carry an umbrella or a raincoat. Unexpected and inconsistent rains could be seen during the summer, so bringing an umbrella on your trip will make things easier.

Autumn in Nepal

Autumn is the most recommended and popular season for trekking in Nepal. Along with freshly blooming vegetation after having a wash, it is also an amazing time to visit Nepal for cultural reasons. There are lots of ongoing festivals and there is a high chance that you will be able to experience one. Since the season is suitable for almost any trip, we suggest you check out our CoreTreks special treks.

Tips for visiting Nepal in autumn:

• Take a professional guide with you licensed by Nepal Government
• Festivals like Dashain (October), Tihar (November), and the Mani Rimdu festival above Namche in the Everest region (November) fall in autumn. So try and time your visit to coincide in order to experience them.
• The popular destinations are usually packed during these times so maybe plan some off-the-beaten-path treks.
• Early autumn might still see some light rain, don’t forget to carry an umbrella.

Month-by-month guide for Visiting in Nepal

Exploring Nepal from December to February

During the period from late December to February, Nepal experiences pleasant weather during the day, but temperatures drop significantly at night, particularly in the mountains. January marks the coldest month, but the upside is that there are fewer tourists, providing a more tranquil atmosphere for sightseeing. To ensure your comfort, many hotels and lodges provide fireplaces, blankets, and hot water bottles.

Events and Festivals

Wildlife in Nepal (October to April): Nepal’s wildlife is a captivating attraction, especially during the drier months. Chitwan and Bardia are among the well-preserved national parks that offer exceptional opportunities to spot rhinos, monkeys, birds, and even elephants.

Exploring Nepal from March to May

As spring sets in, Nepal undergoes a transformation from March to May. The temperatures begin to rise, and the vibrant rhododendrons come into full bloom. The days become longer, providing ample daylight for trekking adventures, although nights can still be cool. It is essential to plan your trip well in advance as this period attracts a significant number of travelers. May, although one of the warmest months, is accompanied by clouds and occasional showers before the monsoon season arrives.

Events and Festivals

• Holi Festival: The renowned Holi Festival, celebrated not only in India but also across cities and towns in Nepal, takes place every March. This colorful festival is gaining recognition worldwide.
• Rhododendron Season (March and April): During spring, Nepal’s landscapes undergo a captivating transformation as various species of rhododendrons blanket the hills and mountains in shades of red, pink, and white, varying with altitude.
• Wildlife in Nepal (October to April): The drier months, spanning from October to April, offer excellent opportunities to explore Nepal’s diverse wildlife. Chitwan and Bardia, two well-preserved national parks, provide remarkable sightings of rhinos, monkeys, birds, and even elephants.

Exploring Nepal from June to August

Nepal experiences its monsoon season from June to August. During this period, the days are warm, with temperatures reaching up to 30°C, accompanied by rainfall and high humidity. Due to Nepal’s diverse topography, the rains often occur during the night, leading to breathtaking morning landscapes. While trekking is not recommended during this time, city sightseeing is still feasible and offers a quieter experience compared to peak tourist periods.

Exploring Nepal from September to November

September marks the end of the monsoon season in Nepal, bringing clear skies, fresh air, and breathtaking views. October and November are considered some of the best months to visit as the weather remains dry, making trekking more accessible and providing excellent visibility. The lush landscapes, rejuvenated by the monsoon rains, create a picturesque setting, perfect for photography enthusiasts.

Noteworthy Events and Festivals

Wildlife in Nepal (October to April): The drier months, spanning from October to April, offer an excellent opportunity to explore Nepal’s diverse wildlife. Chitwan and Bardia, known for their conservation efforts, are two national parks that provide exceptional opportunities to spot rhinos, monkeys, birds, and even elephants.

Related:

• The Best Time to Visit Everest Base Camp: Climb to New Heights
• Best Time for Annapurna Circuit Trek
• Best Time for Manaslu Trek: The Seasonal Guide
• Why 2023 is the best time to Trek to Everest Base Camp in Nepal?

To wrap things up, Nepal is a beautiful destination for travelers throughout the year. Traveling with CoreTreks is yet another way to assure an enjoyable and unforgettable journey. Our travel experts will guide you throughout your trip to Nepal and provide you with all the required safety measures. Get in touch with us and find out the best time to travel to Nepal or the best seasons to travel to Nepal that fits you and your preferences.