The best times to visit Nepal for temples, trekking and fantastic festivals

Shafik Meghji

Jan 20, 2022 • 7 min read

A woman feeding maize grains to pigeons at Basantapur Durbar Square, Kathmandu, Nepal on Wednesday, janauary 29, 2019. Basantapur Durbar Square is one of the three Durbar Squares in the Kathmandu Valley, which are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Spring and fall are the peak times for trekking, but the Kathmandu Valley can be explored at any time of year © NurPhoto / Getty Images

From mountain peaks to rolling hills and humid jungles to high-altitude deserts, Nepal offers up a remarkable variety of landscapes for such a small country. This varied terrain is home to a remarkably diverse range of people and cultures, ensuring that the Nepali calendar is packed with festivals, celebrations and special events.

Whether you’re here to trek through the Himalayas, spot rhinos on a jungle safari or explore the centuries-old temples of the Kathmandu Valley, it pays to get the timing right. Most travelers come to Nepal in the spring or fall, when the warm temperatures and clear skies are perfect for trekking and other adventure activities.

Smaller numbers head here in the winter, when the trails are icy and the hills are snowbound, and during the summer monsoon, when travel can be a challenge thanks to the rainy conditions, and views vanish behind dense rainclouds.

Here’s our guide to the best times to visit Nepal for trekking, temple-hopping and more.

The high season (October–November) is the time to trek in perfect weather

Warm, dry weather and cloud-free skies make the October-November period the most popular time to visit Nepal, with ideal conditions for trekking and other outdoor thrills in the hills. The downside is you’ll also find hordes of other travelers, including thousands hiking the trails that snake through the Annapurna massif and the foothills around Mt Everest (Sagarmatha).

The cost of accommodation spikes – particularly in traveler hangouts such as Kathmandu and Pokhara – and rooms get booked up well in advance. So do flights to trekking trailheads, so plan your transport well ahead at this time.

Shoulder season (March–April) is the best time for wildlife-watching

The spring is the second most popular time to visit Nepal, with warm weather and blooming rhododendron forests in the highlands. It’s increasingly hot in the southern Terai region, but the tall grasses that surround rivers and watering holes in Chitwan National Park and Bardia National Park have been hacked back by March, making it easier to spot one-horned rhinos, tigers and other wildlife.

Group of trekkers passing signpost on way to Mount Everest Base Camp

Low season (June–September and December–February) is the best time for cheap deals

Although the timing of the monsoon varies a bit each year, the skies typically fill with rain clouds from June to September. Expect transport disruption, landslides, cloudy skies that block the mountain views and plenty of rain, mud and leeches on the trails. But the lack of fellow travelers, sizable accommodation discounts and lush scenery also makes the monsoon an interesting and inexpensive time to visit the country. Tourist numbers also plummet during the chilly Nepali winter, through some lower-altitude trekking routes remain open and the plains are warm and dry at this time of year.

During the winter, the Kathmandu Valley can be chilly in the evenings, and higher-altitude trekking areas are bitterly cold. Snow may block off some trekking routes and many teahouse and lodge owners close their doors. By contrast, the Terai is pleasantly warm and ripe for exploration. Key events: Magh Sankranti

The start of spring sees rising tourist numbers, as well as temperatures. Late February is a good time to visit the national parks of the Terai, go trekking at lower elevations, and hang out in the temperate traveler town of Pokhara. There are several notable events, including the Hindu festival of Holi, which can also fall in March. It marks the end of winter, symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and sees locals throw around vast quantities of vividly colored powder. Losar – Tibetan New Year, which falls in February or March – sees celebrations at many Buddhist monasteries. Key events: Losar, Holi

As temperatures continue to climb, the trekking areas get busier and higher-altitude trails become passable again, though cloud cover means the mountain views are often obscured at this time of the year. It’s an excellent time for safaris in the Terai. Key events: Seto Machhendranath Festival (can also fall in April), Maha Shivaratri (can also fall in February)

April is the second most popular time to trek, after the peak October–November trekking season. The Terai and other low-lying areas are increasingly hot and sticky, though wildlife-watching opportunities abound. This is a great month to visit Bhaktapur , which celebrates the New Year with Bisket Jatra, when huge wooden chariots carrying temple effigies are hauled through the city center’s meandering streets (celebrations spill over into neighboring Thimi). Key events: Bisket Jatra, Balkumari Jatra, Balaju Jatra

People ceelbrate Holi by throwing colored powder in Bhaktapur

In the run-up to the monsoon, temperatures soar in the Kathmandu Valley, the Terai and lower-elevation trekking areas, and rain showers become increasingly common in the afternoons. However, this is the prime season for mountaineering expeditions to Everest and neighboring peaks because of the favorable conditions at higher elevations.

May is also a good time to spot tigers in Chitwan and Bardia. Looking at the events calendar, Buddha Jayanti sees major Buddhist celebrations in Lumbini , Boudhanath , Swayambhunath and beyond, while the city of Patan hosts its biggest festival, with processions and chariot parades devoted to the deity Rato Machhendranath. Key events: Rato Machhendranath Festival (can also fall in April), Buddha Jayanti (can also fall in April)

The monsoon typically arrives in mid-June, though the start date can shift by several weeks from year to year. Expect swollen rivers, landslides, leeches, and extremely muddy or impassable trails. Tourist numbers plummet during this period, but so do prices. Expect disruption to transport by road and air.

The monsoon continues to pound Nepal, though a few high trans-Himalayan valleys escape the worst of the weather and remain open for trekking. They include Upper Mustang, which has a semi-arid climate and is rich in Tibetan culture.

Heavy rains remain a constant in August. The landscape is lush and farming areas are filled with fresh greenery. This is a busy month for Hindu celebrations, including Krishna Jayanta, the birthday of the Hindu god Krishna, and Teej, a three-day festival devoted to women (which starts at the end of July in 2022). Naga Panchami, celebrating the snake spirits of Nepal's rivers, ponds and temple tanks, is an interesting time to visit Bhaktapur. Key events: Ghanta Karna, Naga Panchami, Janai Purnima, Gai Jatra (can fall in September), Krishna Jayanta, Teej (can fall in July)

Trekkers crossing the Thorong La to Muktinath on the Annapurna Circuit

The monsoon generally peters out by mid-September, ushering in clearer skies. Travelers start to return, drawn by the warm temperatures, lush green landscapes and – thanks to high water levels in the rivers – excellent whitewater rafting. This is also the time for one of Kathmandu's biggest festivals, Indra Jatra, in which the Kumari – Kathmandu's 'living goddess' – makes a rare public appearance. Key events: Indra Jatra

The start of the high season in Nepal, with awesome Himalayan vistas, comfortable temperatures and perfect conditions for trekking. Demand for rooms, flight tickets and trekking lodges goes through the roof – book everything well in advance. This is also the time for Nepal’s biggest festival, Dasain, a 15-day celebration of Hindu goddess Durga’s triumph over the buffalo demon Mahisa-sura (it can also fall in September). Tihar (Diwali), the Hindu festival of lights, takes place in October or November, depending on the lunar calendar. Key events: Pachali Bhairab Jatra, Dasain (can also fall in September), Fulpati (Phulpati), Maha Astami, Navami, Vijaya Dashami, Kartika Purnima, Tihar (Diwali, can also fall in November), Newari New Year, Haribodhini Ekadashi

The peak season continues through November, with tourist numbers remaining high and excellent weather for trekking, mountain biking, rafting, paragliding and other outdoor adventures. The fascinating Sherpa festival of Mani Rimdu draws many visitors to the Solu Khumbu region around Everest (in some years it takes place in October). Key events: Kartik Dances, Mani Rimdu (can also fall in October)

Traveler numbers slowly decline as the winter starts to bite. Temperatures fall, snow dumps block high mountain passes and treks to areas such as Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp become much more challenging. It’s a good month to explore the national parks and religious sites in the Terai, where the weather is still warm. Many people had to Pokhara for the Pokhara Street Festival, a big celebration with cultural performances, parades and street food – book accommodation in the city well in advance. Key events: Bala Chaturdashi, Sita Bibaha Panchami, Pokhara Street Festival

You may also like: The Nepali mountaineer reclaiming the Himalaya How to plan your dream trip to the Himalayas How to trek to Everest Base Camp

Explore related stories

Help-Me-LP-Feb.jpg

Feb 22, 2024 • 3 min read

Nepal's treks and trails are legendary. Here's how to choose between the Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp.

is july good time to visit nepal

Jan 11, 2024 • 4 min read

Tiger's Nest in Bhutan vs Katmandu

Dec 20, 2023 • 7 min read

is july good time to visit nepal

Dec 16, 2023 • 12 min read

is july good time to visit nepal

Oct 15, 2023 • 3 min read

Where-Locals-Go-India.png

Sep 18, 2023 • 7 min read

Tachog Lhakhang Iron Chain Bridge with colourful prayer flags on each side of bridge. River crossing. Himalaya mountains in the background.Between Paro and Thimphu Bhutan

Aug 31, 2023 • 11 min read

is july good time to visit nepal

Jan 3, 2023 • 7 min read

Horse riding group travels through the mountains of Lesotho.

Dec 26, 2022 • 14 min read

  • Best time to visit Nepal

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

  • roughguides.com
  • Travel guide
  • Local Experts
  • Itineraries
  • Travel Advice
  • Accommodation

Nepal attracts visitors keen to explore its diverse scenery – from jungles to high mountain peaks, to discover its fascinating wildlife and delve into its rich cultural heritage.

Weather in Nepal

When is the monsoon in nepal, when is the best time to visit nepal, when is the best time to visit kathmandu, when to go trekking in nepal, festivals and holidays in nepal, nepal festival calendar, dance and culture shows.

Meet your Nepal local travel expert

Rajeena, Local Expert

11 days  / from 3248 USD

Exclusive Everest

Trek in the Everest region of Nepal's Himalayas, absorbing spectacular views at every step, including Everest rising above the Nuptse Ridge, Lhotse, the iconic peak of Ama Dablam and other Himalayan giants too. Top this off with a shot of warm Nepalese culture for an experience of a lifetime.

Himalayan Family Adventure

13 days  / from 1950 USD

Himalayan Family Adventure

Experience Nepal's hill villages and jungle lowlands as you embark on a family-friendly adventure of a lifetime. Expect mini mountain treks, overnight camps, river rafting and wildlife safaris. Come here for action, stunning mountain scenery and a look around bustling Kathmandu too.

The UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Nepal

13 days  / from 2200 USD

The UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Nepal

Set in the heart of the Himalayas, the landlocked South-Asian country of Nepal is home to a wealth of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. From wild jungles to ancient civilisations, Nepal offers a combination of history, culture and nature; perfect for the most well-seasoned of travellers.

A Taste of Annapurna

12 days  / from 1387 USD

A Taste of Annapurna

Experience the great Nepalese outdoors in all its glory with this moderate trek: pass through picturesque mountain villages like Ghorepani; soak up a stunning sunrise from Poon Hill; marvel at the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, all with this unique adventure trek!

The country has much to offer all year round. Differences in the seasons determine where’s good to go at any given time of year – meaning the best time to go to Nepal goes hand-in-hand with the activities on your wishlist.

Nepal is broadly temperate, with four main seasons centred around the summer monsoon from June to September. The build up to the monsoon is stiflingly hot with afternoon clouds and rain showers. The subsequent monsoon brings relief with a drop in temperatures and the heavy rains bring the countryside into bloom.

While winter is mostly clear and stable it can also be seriously cold in trekking areas. Spring sees warm weather, while the months of autumn are clear, dry and fresh after the recent rains.

Each season has its charms and each offers something different to travellers exploring this wonderful Himalayan country.

Nepalis welcome the monsoon, the timing of which may vary by a few weeks every year, but typically begins in mid-June and peters out in the last weeks of September.

During these months, expect to see heavy rains every day, especially in July and August. During June and September, rain is considerably lighter. The good news is that monsoon rains usually only last for a couple of hours and their timing is quite predictable. So it’s still possible to enjoy a great trip to Nepal during the monsoon – all you need to do is choose your destination and itinerary carefully, especially if trekking is top of the list.

The monsoon doesn’t affect all of Nepal equally. Areas in the Himalayan rain shadow, such as Dolpo and Humla in western Nepal and the Mustang region north of Annapurna , are spared the drenching other areas receive. The area of Pokhara is the wettest part of Nepal during monsoon.

The main thing to remember about the monsoon season is that you need to be flexible with your travel plans. In some areas, flights may be delayed or cancelled due to heavy rains. Landslides can happen, causing road closures. Always check with your hotel or guest house before heading on a road trip during monsoon season. They should be able to find the most up-to-date information about road conditions. Bring appropriate waterproof clothing and keep your electronics in waterproof bags if you’re out and about.

And bear in mind, when the rain stops it will still be hot and sunny, so you can still get out and discover the country during the monsoon season.

The best time to visit Nepal depends on what you plan to do while in the country. Fall/autumn and spring are the most popular times to visit for hikers, climbers and mountaineers. At this time, clear skies and pleasant temperatures create the ideal conditions for adventures in the mountains.

Low season (which coincides with the monsoon season) can be an option if you’re on a budget. Firstly, you’re likely to find discounts on accommodation and tours – plus, you won’t have to deal with crowds. Secondly, if you don’t plan on hitting the Himalayas , monsoon season can be a great time to visit.

Spring is a good time to visit Nepal’s valleys and forests. March marks the start of the blooming season in many parts of the country and large areas are covered in bright pink rhododendrons – Nepal’s national flower. This is also a great time to explore centres of Buddhist culture and architecture, such as Tengboche monastery.

You can have a fabulous travel experience in Nepal during the winter. Low humidity and minimal chances of rain make this season great for travel photography and low-altitude hikes.

When to visit Nepal in winter

Winter in Nepal is cold, but cold temperatures are balanced by brilliant sunshine and clear blue skies. It can be a wonderful time for the more experienced trekker to tackle the mountains. Winter weather in Nepal is also perfect for taking photos that capture the country’s stunning natural beauty.

Visiting Nepal in December – February

In terms of the weather, winter is the perfect time to visit Chitwan National Park , a great destination for jungle walks and safari expeditions. The park is home to Bengal tigers, elephants, rhinos, and more than 500 bird species. For the best chances of spotting wildlife, plan your trip around January or February. It’s worth noting, however, that this is one of Nepal’s most popular destinations, so unless you opt for the rainy season for a trip to Chitwan, you’ll be rhino spotting with a whole lot of other visitors. Bardia National Park , northwest of Nepalgunj, is a quieter alternative and offers the best chance to see tigers in Nepal.

The cold season is also a good time to spend a few days exploring Bandipur . This charming town will catch your eye with its traditional wooden architecture, busy markets, and scenic trails. The town is a five-hour drive from Kathmandu , which makes it a convenient getaway if you get tired of the capital’s hectic pace.

Speaking of Kathmandu, winter is a great time to layer up and explore the old city. Low temperatures are the perfect excuse to sit at a café in Thamel and enjoy a glass of Nepali tea, which comes in many varieties, or a cup of Nepal’s own-grown coffee.

The winter months are generally dry and settled, so it can be a good time for trekking – although it is inevitably colder. There can be snow at 2500m – sometimes lower, while conditions can mean passes over 4000m are uncrossable. You’ll also need appropriate gear for cold temperatures and heavy snowfall if trekking at high altitudes. Challenging conditions aside, if you’re an experienced trekker this can be a wonderful time to be on the mountains, with far fewer trekkers venturing out. At lower altitudes it can feel more like spring already.

When to visit Nepal in spring

Spring is one of the most popular seasons to visit Nepal. Snowfall begins to die down around March and makes it easier to move along hiking trails, so this is a fairly busy time in Nepal’s high-altitude destinations, although not as busy as in autumn/fall. But hiking and climbing are not the only things to do in the spring. In general, this is a great time to discover nature in Nepal.

Visiting Nepal in March – May

April is peak time for travellers heading to Everest base camp and the Annapurna circuit . These months are also a popular time to do short treks in the Nepalese countryside, for example at Ghorepani and Poon Hill or Mardi Himal.

But the options don’t end there: you can also explore lesser-visited destinations, such as the tea plantations in Ilam , in eastern Nepal. There’s also Panch Pokhari, a remote high-altitude wetland area home to five glacial lakes. Mountain scenery could also be your stunning backdrop at one of Nepal’s yoga retreats .

By May it is getting hotter and hazier and the weather is somewhat unsettled, with afternoon storms quite common. Go high if you’re trekking and expect rain, especially in the known wetter regions, such as Annapurna and the far eastern parts of the country.

When to visit Nepal in summer

Summer brings the monsoon rains to most of Nepal. At this time of the year, Nepal's climate is hot and humid, so the rains bring a refreshing break from the heat. But although Nepal is generally wet, the mornings are often clear and the countryside is bursting with colour – vivid green forests and rice terraces and bright wildflowers.

What’s more, summer is a pleasant time to go to Nepal if you want to avoid big crowds and peak season prices.

Visiting Nepal in June – August

Early summer is a fantastic time of year to discover Kathmandu’s historical heritage, without the crowds. And if you get caught in the monsoon rain (mid-June to early Sept), you can always wait for it to pass at one of the many cafés and tea houses.

If you’re into landscape or wildlife photography, early June is the time to see the spectacular landscapes at Shey Poksundo (She-Phoksundo) National Park. This is the country’s biggest national park, and as such, it’s home to hundreds of animal and plant species. You may even be able to spot endangered species here, such as Himalayan black bears, snow leopards and blue sheep.

Most people who visit Nepal for its superb trekking opportunities avoid the monsoon. Downpours can render trekking paths too slippery and muddy – plus, there are leeches to contend with! Mountain views may be obscured and general travelling around can prove problematic.

That said, you don’t need to rule out trekking altogether. Avoid wet areas, such as Annapurna and the far east of Nepal and stick to parts where the monsoon is weaker instead. The far west and areas in the Himalayan rain shadow are relatively sheltered. These include Dolpo, Humla and the mystical Mustang region north of Annapurna.

Mustang, home to Kali Gandaki Gorge, which at 8,270 feet (2,520 metres) is the deepest gorge in the world. Other must-sees in the area include villages such as Marpha (also known as the Apple Capital of Nepal) and Kagbeni.

Just remember, if you are travelling to Nepal for trekking expeditions, allow for sudden changes to your itinerary. The rain can affect transport, with delays and cancellations possible. Check road conditions before you venture out and bring waterproof clothing.

It’s as well to bear in mind, when the rain stops it will still be hot and sunny, so you can still get out and discover the country during the monsoon season.

When to visit Nepal in fall/autumn

Fall or autumn is one of the best seasons to travel to Nepal. From October it’s generally dry and skies are clear, which is why climbers and hikers love this season.

Daytime temperatures during the day at high altitudes are pleasantly cool for walking, whereas it’s hotter lower down. At night it’s getting colder high up but it’s unlikely to be too severe.

You’ll also have the chance to enjoy some of Nepal’s biggest festivals , such as Dashain (Desain, or Dashera) and Tihar (Tihaar), important Hindu festivals.

Visiting Nepal in September – November

The period after the monsoon, around September to early October can be unpredictable. If the rains have finished you’ll be blessed with mild temperatures and clear skies, which is why fall or autumn can be one of the best seasons to travel to Nepal. Trekking trails are also quiet – a joy for hikers and mountaineers. If you’re unlucky though, the monsoon may not have quite tailed off yet. In that case it could be hot and sticky and you may get caught in heavy showers – or even snow. Also those stunning mountain views could be shrouded in clouds.

Mid-October to mid-November is the best time for serious climbing and mountaineering in Nepal. But this also means that from September it’s the busiest time in the Himalayas. If you’d rather avoid the crowds, consider less popular destinations and activities:

  • Nagarkot is one of the most photogenic places in Nepal. Temperatures may be chilly in the early morning and late evening, but visibility is great and you’ll enjoy panoramic mountain views.
  • A multi-day rafting or kayaking trip along Sun Kosi (Sun Koshi) River or Ghaghara River. These trips are a great way of seeing the country and staying active at the same time.
  • The Gokyo Lakes trek, where you’ll enjoy dramatic views of some of the world’s highest mountains.
  • Cycling in the Kathmandu Valley and southern Nepal. The Terai lowlands are a fantastic destination for a two-wheel holiday. And they’re suitable for cycling beginners too.

Generally speaking, September to November is the best time to visit the city. At this time of the year, you’ll find dry weather, clear skies, and plenty of cultural events. But in fact, there’s no wrong time to visit the city.

Kathmandu weather is relatively mild compared to other parts of the country. The average annual temperature in Nepal’s capital city is a pleasant 18°C. January is the coldest month in Kathmandu (average 9°C). The hottest month is June with average temperatures of 23°C, and the wettest is July with more than 15 days of rain in the month. If you want to avoid rainy weather, November is your best bet.

The Kathmandu Valley is not as affected by monsoon rains as other parts of the country. Some flooding may happen here and there, but it shouldn’t affect your sightseeing plans. Remember that monsoon rains only last a few hours. Plan your activities around this, and you should have no problem visiting Kathmandu during the rainy season.

If you’re interested in high-altitude treks, it’s best to avoid the coldest winter months unless you’re experienced with cold weather conditions and have the necessary gear. Between December and February, heavy snowfall can make some trails and roads dangerous or impossible to cross.

On the other hand, spring – and the period before winter, bring dry and warm weather. These seasons are the best for high-altitude expeditions such as those to Annapurna , Everest , or Langtang .

Trekking in Nepal doesn’t always have to involve great heights. There are many short and lower-altitude hikes you can do around the Kathmandu Valley. A trek on the forested mountain of Phulchowki (Phulchoki) will take you from subtropical vegetation through Nepal chestnut, evergreen oaks and, of course, rhododendron. The unspoiled forest is one of the best places in Nepal for butterfly-spotting and birdwatching.

Or you can choose the Champadevi trek and go on a discovery journey of Tibetan monasteries.

These treks can be done all year round, except for the rainy season. For safety always go with a group when going on walks in the Phulchowki forest, as there have been robberies in recent years. And stick to the trails – anti-personnel mines were laid during the conflict in this region and you can't be 100% sure that they've all been removed.

Read more on trekking : where to go and when, accommodation, remote and restricted areas, organised treks and trekking independently, equipment, safety – and more.

The weather is not the only factor when thinking about when to go to Nepal. This Himalayan nation has a rich history, which can be discovered through its festivals. Nepal’s festival calendar fills every month of the year with colourful celebrations that offer interesting insights into the local culture. Here are some things you should know about festivals in Nepal:

  • The exact date varies from year to year. This is because it is calculated based on the lunar calendar.
  • Many Nepali festivals last several days. For example, Holi can last for a whole week, and Dashain runs for 15 days.
  • Although there are festivals all year round, September to November is considered “festival season”. If you’re interested in the local culture, this is the best time to visit Nepal.
  • Nepal’s five biggest festivals are Dashain (Sept/October), Holi (early spring), Nepalese New Year (which usually falls in April), Tihar (November), and Teej (Tij), a women-only celebration usually held in late summer.
  • The majority of festivals have spiritual or religious origins. As a visitor, you’re welcome to observe – just remember to be respectful.
  • Nepal is a multicultural nation. Some festivals are celebrated all over the country, but others are only observed by certain ethnic groups. Also, the rituals and celebrations can vary from community to community.
  • Festivals are a great opportunity to try traditional Nepalese food . Sweet treats are everywhere during the Tihar festival. If you’re around for Holi, you’ll want to try dahi balla , or lentil fritters topped with yogurt and chutney. They’re addictive! Some of these delicacies are only prepared once a year, so don’t miss your chance.

Stumbling onto a local festival may prove to be the highlight of your travels in Nepal – and given the sheer number of them, you’d be unlucky not to. Though most are religious in nature, merrymaking, not solemnity, is the order of the day, and onlookers are always welcome. Festivals may be Hindu, Buddhist, animist or a hybrid of all three.

Hindu events can take the form of huge pilgrimages and fairs ( mela ), or more introspective gatherings such as ritual bathings at sacred confluences ( tribeni ) or special acts of worship ( puja ) at temples. Many see animal sacrifices followed by family feasts, with priests and musicians usually on hand. Parades and processions ( jaatra ) are common, especially in the Kathmandu Valley.

Buddhist festivals are no less colourful, typically bringing together maroon-robed clergy and lay pilgrims to walk and prostrate themselves around stupas (dome-shaped monuments, usually repainted specially for the occasion).

Many of Nepal’s animist peoples follow the Hindu calendar, but local nature-worshipping rites take place across the hills throughout the year. Shamanic rites usually take place at home, at the request of a particular family, although shamans themselves have their own calendar of fairs ( mela ) at which they converge on a particular holy spot. You’ll have to travel widely and sensitively to have the chance to witness a shaman in action.

Jubilant Nepali weddings are always scheduled on astrologically auspicious days, which fall in the greatest numbers during the months of Magh, Phaagun and Baisaakh. The approach of a wedding party is often heralded by a hired band baajaa or brass band and open-air feasts go on until the early hours. The bride usually wears red, and for the rest of her married life she will colour the parting of her hair with red sindur .

Funeral processions should be left in peace. The body is normally carried to the cremation site within hours of death by white-shrouded friends and relatives; white is the colour of mourning for Hindus, and the eldest son is expected to shave his head and wear white for a year following the death of a parent. Many of the hill tribes conduct special shamanic rites to guide the deceased’s soul to the land of the dead.

Knowing when and where festivals are held will not only enliven your time in Nepal, but should also help you avoid annoyances such as closed offices and booked-up buses. Unfortunately, as most are governed by the lunar calendar, festival dates vary annually, and determining them more than a year in advance is a highly complicated business best left to astrologers. Each lunar cycle is divided into “bright” (waning) and “dark” (waxing) halves, which are in turn divided into fourteen lunar “days”. Each of these days has a name – purnima is the full moon, astami the eighth day, aunshi the new moon, and so on. Thus lunar festivals are always observed on a given day of either the bright or dark half of a given Nepali month. The following list details Nepal’s most widely observed festivals, plus a few notable smaller events. For upcoming festival dates, check one of the online Nepali calendars (try visitnepal.com or nepalhomepage.com ).

Magh (Jan–Feb)

Magh (or Makar) Sankranti Marking a rare solar (rather than lunar) event in the Nepali calendar – the day the sun is farthest from the earth – the first day of Magh (Jan 14 or 15) is an occasion for ritual bathing at sacred river confluences, especially at Devghat and Sankhu. The day also begins a month-long period during which families do daily readings of the Swasthani, a compilation of Hindu myths, and many women emulate Parvati’s fast for Shiva, one of the Swasthani stories. For more information, see The Devghat Pilgrimage.

Basanta Panchami This one-day spring festival is celebrated on the fifth day after the new moon in most Hindu hill areas. The day is also known as Saraswati Puja, after the goddess of learning, and Shri Panchami, after the Buddhist saint Manjushri. School playgrounds are decorated with streamers and children have their books and pens blessed; high-caste boys may undergo a special rite of passage.

Phaagun (Feb–March)

Losar Tibetan New Year falls on the new moon of either Magh or Phaagun, and is preceded by three days of drinking, dancing and feasting. The day itself is celebrated most avidly at Boudha, where morning rituals culminate with horn blasts and the hurling of tsampa . Losar is a time for families, and is the highlight of the calendar in Buddhist highland areas, as well as in Tibetan settlements near Kathmandu and Pokhara.

Shivaraatri Falling on the new moon of Phaagun, “Shiva’s Night” is marked by bonfires and evening vigils in all Hindu areas, but most spectacularly at Pashupatinath , where tens of thousands of pilgrims and sadhus from all over the subcontinent gather for Nepal’s best-known mela . Fervent worship and bizarre yogic demonstrations can be seen throughout the Pashupatinath complex. Children collect firewood money by holding pieces of string across the road to block passers-by. Nepalis say the festival is usually followed by a final few days of winter weather, which is Shiva’s way of encouraging the Indian sadhus to go home.

Holi Nepal’s version of the springtime water festival, common to many Asian countries, lasts about a week, and commemorates a myth in which the god Krishna, when still a boy, outsmarted the demoness Holika. During this period, anyone is a fair target for water balloons and coloured powder. It culminates in a general free-for-all on Phaagun Purnima, the full-moon day of Phaagun.

Chait (March–April)

Chait Dasain Like its autumn namesake, the “little Dasain”, observed on the eighth day after the new moon, involves lots of animal sacrifices. The goriest action takes place at goddess temples, such as the one at Gorkha, and in the Kot courtyard near Kathmandu’s Durbar Square, where the army’s top brass come to witness the beheading of numerous buffalo and goats.

Ram Nawami The birthday of Lord Ram is observed on the ninth day after the full moon at all temples dedicated to Vishnu in his incarnation as the hero of the Ramayana, one of the great Hindu epics. By far the biggest and most colourful celebrations take place in Janakpur, where thousands of pilgrims flock to the Ram temple.

Seto Machhendranath Jaatra Kathmandu’s answer to Patan’s Machhendranath Rath Jaatra (see below), this sees a lumbering wooden chariot containing the white mask of the god Machhendranath pulled through the narrow lanes of the old city for four days, starting on Chait Dasain.

Baisaakh (April–May)

Nawa Barsa Nepali New Year, which always falls on the first day of Baisaakh (April 13 or 14), is observed with localized parades. Culminating on Nawa Barsa, Bhaktapur’s five-day celebration, known as Bisket or Biska, is the most colourful, combining religious processions with a rowdy tug-of-war (see Bishanku Narayan ); the nearby settlements of Thimi and Bode host similarly wild scenes.

Machhendranath Rath Jaatra Nepal’s most spectacular festival: thousands gather to watch as the image of Machhendranath, the Kathmandu Valley’s rain-bringing deity, is pulled around the streets of Patan in a swaying, 18m-high chariot. It moves only on astrologically auspicious days, taking four weeks or more to complete its journey. For more information, see Raato Machhendranath’s big ride .

Buddha Jayanti The anniversary of the Buddha’s birth. Enlightenment and death is celebrated on the full-moon day of Baisaakh at all Buddhist temples, but most visibly at Swayambhu, where the stupa is decorated with thousands of lights, and ritual dances are performed by priests dressed as the five aspects of Buddhahood. Processions are also held at the Boudha stupa and in Patan. Curiously, observances at the Buddha’s birthplace, Lumbini, are rather sparse.

Saaun (July–Aug)

Janai Purnima The annual changing of the sacred thread ( janai ) worn by high-caste Hindu men takes place at holy bathing sites throughout the country on the full-moon day of Saaun. Men and women of any caste may also receive a yellow-and-orange “protective band” ( raksha bandhan ) around one wrist, which is then worn until Tihaar, when it’s supposed to be tied onto the tail of a cow. Mass observances are held at Gosainkund, a holy lake high in the mountains north of Kathmandu; Pashupatinath; and most prominently Patan’s Kumbeshwar temple, where priests tie strings and bestow tikas , and jhankri (hill shamans) perform sacred dances.

Gaai Jaatra Newari tradition has it that Yamraj, the god of death, opens the gates of judgement on the day of the full moon, allowing departed souls to enter. Falling on the day after the full moon, Gaai Jaatra honours cows ( gaai ), who are supposed to lead departed souls to Yamraj’s abode. Processions in Kathmandu, Bhaktapur and other Newari towns are both solemn and whimsical: an occasion for families to honour loved ones who have died in the past year, but also for young boys to dress up in fanciful cow costumes or masquerade as sadhus. In Bhaktapur, where the festival is known as Gunhi Punhi and starts a day earlier (coinciding with Janai Purnima), men parade around town in humorous costumes. Satirical street performances are less common nowadays than they once were, but newspapers and magazines publish caustic Gaai Jaatra specials.

Nag Panchami On the fifth day after the new moon, Kathmandu Valley residents quietly propitiate the nag (snake spirits), who are traditionally held to control the monsoon rains and earthquakes, by pasting pictures of nag over their doorways with cow dung and offering milk, rice and other favourite nag foods to the images. Wells are cleaned only on this day, when the nag are believed to be away worshipping their ancestral deities.

Ghanta Karna On the fourteenth day after the full moon, residents of Kathmandu Valley towns celebrate the victory of the gods over the demon Ghanta Karna (“Bell Ears”) by erecting effigies and then burning or tearing them down.

Bhadau (Aug–Sept)

Krishna Astami (also called Krishna Jayanti or Krishna Janmastahmi) Krishna temples such as Patan’s Krishna Mandir throng with thousands of worshippers celebrating the god’s birth on the seventh day after the full moon. Vigils are also held the night before.

Tij The three-day “Women’s Festival”, which starts on the third day after the new moon, sees groups of women clad in red singing and dancing through the streets. Letting their families fend for themselves for once, they start with a girls’ night out, feasting until midnight when they begin a day-long fast. On the second day they queue up to worship Shiva at the Pashupatinath temple outside of Kathmandu, and break the fast and ritually bathe to remove their sins on the final day.

Indra Jaatra A wild week of chariot processions and masked-dance performances in Kathmandu, held around the full moon of Bhadau. On the last day, which is also known as Kumari Jaatra, beer flows from the mouth of an idol in Durbar Square. For more information, see Indra Jaatra: eight days of pomp and partying .

Yartung A swashbuckling fair held at Muktinath, in the Annapurna trekking region, centred around the full-moon day and featuring horse racing, dancing, drinking and gambling.

Asoj (Sept–Oct)

Dasain (or Dashera) Although Hindu in origin, Nepal’s longest and greatest festival is enthusiastically embraced by members of almost all religious and ethnic groups. It stretches over fifteen days, from the new moon to the full moon of Asoj, with the liveliest action taking place on the seventh, ninth and tenth days. Normally falling just after the summer rice harvest is in, Dasain is a time for families to gather (buses get extremely crowded with homeward-bound passengers), children to be indulged (with kites, makeshift swings and miniature ferris wheels), and animals to be sacrificed (roads and markets all over the country are filled with doomed goats). On the first day, known as Ghatasthapana, people plant jamura (barley) in a kalash (sanctified vessel), representing Durga, Dasain’s honoured goddess; the seedlings will be picked and worn in the hair on the tenth day. Devotees congregate at local goddess temples throughout the next nine nights. A separate festival, Panchali Bhairab Jaatra, features late-night processions between the Bhairab’s shrine and the Kumari Ghar in Kathmandu, and coincides with the fourth and fifth days of Dasain. On the seventh day, Fulpati, a bouquet of sacred flowers ( fulpati ) is carried in a procession from Rani Pokhari to the Hanuman Dhoka Palace in Kathmandu. The ninth day, Navami, begins at midnight with tantric buffalo sacrifices inside the forbidden Taleju (a form of Durga) temples of the Kathmandu Valley; throughout the day, animals are ritually beheaded publicly in the Kot Courtyard near Kathmandu’s Durbar Square and in every village and city of Nepal; their blood is sprinkled on tools, vehicles and even aircraft to impart Durga’s shakti (power). These rituals commemorate Durga’s slaying of the demon Mahisasur, and more generally, the triumph of good over evil. Bijaya Dasami, the “Victorious Tenth Day”, celebrates Ram’s victory over the demon Ravana – with Durga’s help. Various processions and masked dance troupes ply the streets and families visit their elders to receive blessings and tika .

Kaattik (Oct–Nov)

Tihaar (Diwali near India) Lasting for five days, starting two days before the new moon, the “Festival of Lights” is associated with Yamraj, the god of death, and Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and good fortune. On the first day, Nepalis set out food on leaf plates for crows, regarded as Yamraj’s messengers; on the second, they honour dogs as Yamraj’s gatekeepers, giving them tika , flower garlands and special foods; and on the third they garland cows both as the symbol of Lakshmi and as the soul’s guide to Yamarj’s underworld. The festival’s most picturesque event, Lakshmi Puja, comes on the evening of the third day, when families throughout Nepal ring their homes with oil lamps, candles or electric lights to guide Lakshmi to their homes so she can bless them with prosperity for the year. Trusting in her, many Nepalis gamble on street corners, and student groups make the rounds singing “Diusire”, a form of musical fundraising. Firecrackers have also become a big part of the fun for kids. To Newars, the fourth day is known as Mha Puja (“Self-Worship”), an occasion for private rituals, and also their New Year’s Day, marked by banners, well-wishing and motorcycle parades in the Kathmandu Valley’s three main cities. On the fifth day, Bhaai Tika, sisters recall the myth of Jamuna, who tricked Yamraj into postponing her brother’s death indefinitely, by blessing their younger brothers and giving them flower garlands, tika and sweetmeats.

Chhath Coinciding with the third day of Tihaar, this festival honours Surya, the sun god, and is one of the most important for the Maithili-speaking people of the eastern Terai. Chhath is celebrated most ardently in Janakpur, where women gather by ponds and rivers to greet the sun’s first rays with prayers, offerings and ritual baths.

Mani Rimdu Held at Tengboche and Chiwong monasteries in the Everest region around the full moon of the ninth Tibetan month (usually Oct/Nov), this colourful Sherpa masked dance dramatizes Buddhism’s victory over the ancient Bon religion in eighth-century Tibet. A similar event is held in May or June at Thami.

Mangsir (Nov–Dec)

Ram-Sita Biwaha Panchami As many as 100,000 pilgrims converge on Janakpur for this five-day gathering, beginning on the new moon of Mangsir. The highlight is the re-enactment of the wedding of Ram and Sita, the divine, star-crossed lovers of the Ramayana, one of the great Hindu epics. Janakpur’s stature as a holy city rests on its having been the location of the original wedding.

Nepali music is inseparable from dance , especially at festivals. Nepali dance is an unaffected folk art – neither wildly athletic nor subtle, it depicts everyday activities such as work and courtship. Each region and ethnic group has its own traditions, and during your travels you should get a chance to join a local hoedown or two, if not a full-blown festival extravaganza. Look out, too, for the stick dance of the lowland Tharus, performed regularly at lodges around Chitwan National Park. Staged culture shows in Kathmandu and Pokhara are a long way from the real thing, but they do provide a taste of folk and religious dances. Most troupes perform such standards as the dance of the jhankri (shaman-exorcists still consulted by many hill-dwelling Nepalis); the sleeve-twirling dance of the Sherpas; the flirting dance of the hill-dwelling Tamangs; perhaps a formal priestly dance, to the accompaniment of a classical raga (musical piece); and at least one of the dances of the Kathmandu Valley’s Newars.

Folk music ( git lok ) is an important aspect of life in Nepal, particularly during festivals and holidays. The maadal double-ended drum plays a focal role, often accompanied by the harmonium, murali (bamboo piccolo) or bansuri (flute). A group member will strike up a familiar verse, and everyone joins in on the chorus.

Folk music traditions vary among the country’s many ethnic groups, but the true sound of Nepal can be said to be the soft, melodic and complex music of the hills. Jhyaure , the maadal -based music of the western hills, is the most popular. Selo , the music of the Tamangs, has also been adopted by many other communities. Meanwhile, the music of the Jyapu (Newari farmers) has a lively rhythm, though the singing has a nasal quality.

The improvised, flirtatiously duelling duets known as dohori , traditionally performed by young men and women of the hill tribes, have become the soundtrack of modern Nepal. You’ll hear them on personal radios, mobile ringtones and bus music systems, as well as in the dedicated rodi ghars (nightlife restaurants), and will soon come to recognize the repetitive back-and-forth, him-then-her structure, with wailing flutes and unison choruses punctuating each verse.

While folk music is by definition an amateur pursuit, there are two traditional castes of professional musicians : wandering minstrels ( gaaine or gandarbha ) who play the sarangi (a four-stringed fiddle), and damai , members of the tailor caste who serve as wedding musicians.

The Rough Guides to Nepal and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

The Rough Guide to the A-Z of Travel

Travel advice for Nepal

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Nepal

  • Culture and Etiquette in Nepal
  • Eating and drinking in Nepal
  • Getting around Nepal: Transportation Tips
  • Travel Health Nepal
  • Travel Tips Nepal for planning and on the go
  • How to get to Nepal

Find even more inspiration here

sainte-marie-island-madagascar-shutterstock_350641391

  • Travel Tips

Rough Guides Editors

written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 17.05.2021

facebook

Ready to travel and discover Nepal?

Get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

  • Where to stay
  • Travel advice

Weather & Climate

Kathmandu Airport Guide

Top Destinations in Nepal

One Week in Nepal

Tipping Guide

Getting Around

Top Things to Do in Nepal

Complete Guide to Kathmandu

Top Things to Do in Kathmandu

Top Things to Do in Pokhara

Sacred Sites

Amazing Festivals

Top National Parks

Must-Try Food

Annapurna Circuit

Manaslu Circuit

Himalaya Trail

Facts About Mt. Everest

Trek to Everest Base Camp

Best Time to Visit

The Best Time to Visit Nepal

is july good time to visit nepal

fotoVoyager/Getty Images

Mountainous Nepal has the highest Himalayan peaks in the world.   Yet, the southern part of the country bordering India along the Indo-Gangetic Plain (known as the Terai) is surprisingly low-lying. This gives Nepal a diverse climate. For trekking, the best time to visit Nepal is during October and November, when it's sunny and warm. However, this is high season, when crowds and prices peak. Spring, from March to May, is also popular. It's the best time to see blooming flowers and wildlife. There are benefits of visiting Nepal at other times as well, depending on where you go.

If you plan your trip carefully, Nepal can be a year-round destination. Here's what to consider.

Weather in Nepal

Nepal has four main seasons, but the climate changes according to elevation, which extends from less than 300 feet above sea level to 29,029 feet above sea level (the height of Mount Everest ).  

Winter, from December to February, is mild in the flat subtropical south but bitterly cold at high altitudes in the north. Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal , is about 5,000 feet above sea level. It has a warm temperate climate with cold, dry winters and hot summers.

The bright and dry winter days are pleasant, but temperatures plunge at night. Heat and humidity rise in mid-May before the onset of the summer monsoon, which sweeps up the Indian subcontinent, in June.

Nepal receives about 80 percent of its rainfall from June to mid-September, although the amount varies depending on location. Pokhara, in the Western Hills (which are west of Kathmandu albeit in the geographic center of Nepal), has particularly high rainfall—more than 120 inches a year—produced by moisture from monsoon winds as they encounter the Annapurna Range directly to the north. This compares to only 12 inches in the Mustang district, bordering Tibet in the rainshadow of the Himalaya. Kathmandu's average annual rainfall is about 50 inches.

Trekking in Nepal

Trekking is the most popular thing to do in Nepal. You may hear that the summer monsoon season isn't suitable for trekking. This isn't entirely true, though. Experienced trekkers can avoid the rain by heading to the north side of the Himalaya mountain range, which is protected from the monsoon.

High mountain trekking is challenging during winter. Fierce cold and snow (possibly blizzards) cause many lodges to shut. High passes may be blocked too—such as Thorong La on the Annapurna Circuit, Ganja La, Cho La, Renjo La, Kongma La, and Gosainkunda-Lauribina Pass. That's not to say it's impossible to trek the iconic Annapurna Circuit and Everest Base Camp in winter—just be prepared for extreme weather conditions and accommodations without heating. (The benefit is a lot fewer people on the trails.)

Treks and hikes at lower elevations can be readily undertaken throughout the year, although you'll need to be careful of leeches during the monsoon season.

Tourists generally avoid visiting Nepal in winter, which is understandable because it does get cold in much of the country. However, this means there are hardly any tourists around, so it's peaceful and cheaper. Sunlit, lakeside Pokhara offers enticing deals for those who don't want to trek.

Kathmandu and Pokhara have similar winter temperatures, which range from about 38 degrees Fahrenheit (3 degrees Celsius) overnight to 65 degrees Fahrenheit (18 degrees Celsius) during the day.   Nepal's winter is quite short, though. So, temperatures tend to be higher in early December and late February. The Annapurna Circuit is most likely to be affected by snowfall in winter.

Treks that don't go above 15,000 feet above sea level will be the most comfortable. Options include the Annapurna Circuit Trek, Poon Hill Trek, Ghorepani Circuit, Royal Trail around Pokhara, Dhampus Trek, Helambu Trek, and the hills around Kathmandu Valley for short and easy hikes. These include Champadevi, Chandragiri, Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, Ranikot, and Nagarkot to Dhulikhel. Read more about what to do in Kathmandu .

Winter is an excellent time to visit the jungles of Chitwan National Park and Bardia National Park in southern Nepal's flat planes. You can also hike the Chitwan Hills Trail up to Siraichuli Hill, one of the highest hills in the Mahabharat Range.

Also, February and March are among the best months for paragliding around Pokhara.

Events to check out:

  • Pokhara Street Festival at the end of December.
  • Tamu Losar, the New Year celebration of the ethnic Tibetan Gurung community.
  • Sonam Losar, the New Year celebration of the ethnic Tibetan Tamang community.
  • Basant Panchami, dedicated to the worship of Goddess Saraswati. It also makes the transition from winter to spring.
  • Maha Shivratri, dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva. The best place to see it is Pashupatinath temple in Kathmandu, where there are thousands of colorful sadhus (Hindu holy men).
  • Gyalpo Losar, the New Year celebration of the Sherpa community.

Spring (Pre-Monsoon)

Spring is the second most popular time to visit Nepal and Kathmandu's traveler district, Thamel, is buzzing. The season brings warmer weather that gets quite hot and stifling at lower elevations. Nature comes alive. Dust from the planes and smoke from local fires can cause haze and reduce visibility, though. Thunderstorms are quite common later in the season, as the monsoon approaches. However, conditions remain cold and clear at the higher altitudes, favorable for trekking and mountaineering expeditions.

In Pokhara and Kathmandu, May temperatures reach around 86 degrees Fahrenheit (30 degrees Celsius) during the day and 64 degrees Fahrenheit (18 degrees Celcius) at night.

Head to the higher mountains for Nepal's classic treks in the Annapurna region, Everest region, or Mount Kanchenjunga. If you want to avoid the crowds or up the level of difficulty, choose an offbeat trekking destination such as the Makalu region, Langtang, Manaslu, or the Ganesh Himal region.

The lower areas around Pokhara are the best places to see Nepal's famous rhododendrons in bloom in early spring. They begin blooming above Namche in the Everest region in late spring.

Bardia National Park gets very hot by May but provides the best chance of spotting a tiger, as the animals come out of the jungle for water.

  • Holi , the festival of colors.  
  • Ghode Jatra: The Nepal Army holds a horse race in the Kathmandu Valley to ward off demon Gurumapa.
  • Nepalese New Year and Bisket Jatra. It's best experienced in Bhaktapur near Kathmandu.

Summer (Monsoon)

The monsoon arrives by mid-June and remains until near the end of September, deterring most trekkers. Expect it to rain for a couple of hours a day, typically in the afternoon, as well as throughout the night. As it's the low season, generous hotel discounts are available. However, flights to Nepal may be canceled due to bad weather and roads blocked by landslides. Clouds typically cover the spectacular mountain scenery too.

Trekking is ideally undertaken in the rainshadow of the Himalaya at this time of year. This includes remote and isolated places such as Mustang, the Nar Phu Valley, and the Dolpo region. On the Annapurna Circuit, Marsyangdi Valley and Tilicho Lake are particularly picturesque, with flourishing greenery and postcard settings.

Thrill-seekers have a reason to visit Nepal during the monsoon—white water rafting. July and August are the best months for beginners, as water levels are lower. The Bhotekoshi river gives the best adrenaline rush. Sunkoshi, Trishuli, Kali Gandaki, and Seti are other major rivers for rafting.

  • Yarthung Horse Festival in Manang in June or July.
  • Gai Jatra , a festival in Kathmandu Valley to commemorate the death of loved ones. Family members of the deceased dress as cows or lead a cow through the streets.
  • Teej festival for women. Thousands of women wearing red come to celebrate at Pashupatinath temple in Kathmandu.

Fall (Post-Monsoon)

After the monsoon withdraws around the third week of September, the skies become clear and the weather stable. The glorious post-monsoon period is the best time to visit Nepal weather-wise. Being high season, there's a great demand for accommodations. Prices leap, and hotels in Kathmandu get booked up. Be prepared to jostle for space on Nepal's classic trekking trails too. Similar to in spring, stick to the off-beat treks to avoid the crowds.

October is also a popular month for white water rafting, while October and November are optimal for paragliding.

  • Dashain, Nepal's most important festival and a celebration of the victory of good over evil in September or October.
  • Tihar, the festival of lights also known as Diwali.
  • Chhath Parva, the worship of the sun god in the Terai region.

October and November are the best months to plan a trip to Nepal, because the weather is sunny, warm, and perfect for trekking.

The climbing season on Mount Everest lasts from April to May, but if you don't plan to go for the summit, you can also trek to Everest Base Camp after the monsoon season from September to December.

January is the coldest month in Kathmandu with an average high temperature of 64 degrees Fahrenheit (18 degrees Celsius) and an average low temperature of 37 degrees Fahrenheit (3 degrees Celsius).

Britannica. "Nepal Himalayas." Retrieved February 12, 2021.

Britannica. "Nepal - Climate." Retrieved February 12, 2021.

Weather Spark. "Average Weather in Kathmandu, Nepal, Year Round." Retrieved February 12, 2021.

How to Travel From Delhi to Kathmandu by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

The Top 20 Things to Do in Nepal

Where Is Mount Everest?

The Most Beautiful National Parks in Nepal

The Weather and Climate in Nepal

The Top 15 Destinations in Nepal

The Best 12 Hikes in Nepal

The Most Colorful and Interesting Festivals in Nepal

One Week in Nepal: The Ultimate Itinerary

Five Amazing Hiking Routes Among the High Mountains of the Himalayas

How to Trek Nepal's Manaslu Circuit

South Asia Travel

How to Trek Nepal's Annapurna Circuit

The Best Time to Visit Ladakh

How to Go Teahouse Trekking in Nepal

The 15 Best Hiking Destinations in Asia

nepal

Tips for visiting Nepal in July

Nepal weather & when to go: July

Nepal july weather overview.

Understandably, there aren't many tourists in Nepal during July. In addition to being hot and humid, it's mid-monsoon, infact July is typically the wettest month of the year throughout the country. All that cloud cover means the visibility is poor too. Trails are muddy, landslides on roads not uncommon and domestic travel can be problematic.

rhino

Nepal weather & when to go

Pick a month below, july’s weather in detail.

July is one of the wettest months of the year in Nepal . With the monsoon in full swing it's not a great time of year to travel. Roads sometimes get washed away, particularly in the mountains, and internal flights can get cancelled due to bad visibility. Pokhara in particular gets a lot of rain - nearly three times as much as Kathmandu. It does rain most days in Kathmandu too, but mornings are often dry and nearby ancient gems like Bhaktapur are still easy to reach. The mighty Himalaya provides shelter for certain sections of the Annapurna circuit around Jomsom, so whilst other parts of the country are inundated, trekking here is feasible with pleasant temperatures in the low 20s. You'll probably still find those mountain views obscured by clouds some of the time, but you'll also have the trails to yourself. 

Can you still travel in Nepal in July? Yes, just about. Are there better months to visit? Without question!

We think you may like this journey…

rhino

Rhinos & Rhododendrons

Taking an alternative approach to a classic Nepal combination, this journey contrasts the heady and hectic streets of Kathmandu with the open savannah of Chitwan National Park. Slow down to search for tigers and rhinos amid the wilderness, before strapping up your boots for a light trek between two atmospheric lodges in the Himalayan foothills around Pokhara.

Looking for inspiration?

Change location

  • UK / International
  • Call toll-free until 8pm EST 617-223-4521 617-223-4180 or
  • REQUEST A QUOTE

Sacred candles at Boudhanath Stupa

When is the best time to visit Nepal?

  • Month-by-month

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 43°F in Namche Bazaar. 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 95°F in Chitwan National Park.

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.

Conde Nast Traveler Award - Favorite Specialist Tour Operator

  • Make an inquiry
  • Request a brochure

Month-by-month guide for traveling in Nepal

One horned rhino, Bardia National Park, 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 cozy.

Events & Festivals

  • Wildlife in Nepal (October to April): Nepal's wildlife is worth exploring during the drier months. Chitwan and Bardia are two of the better protected national parks, offering great sightings of rhinos, monkeys, birds and even elephants.

Rhododendrons in Bhutan

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.

  • 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’s landscapes change color in the spring as a range of rhododendron species spread across the hills and mountains, changing color according to altitude from reds to pinks and whites.

Bodnath Square, Kathmandu, Nepal

Visiting Nepal in June - August

The monsoon season occurs from June through to August. Days are warm (up to 86°F), 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.

Annapurna region

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.

Nepal Climate Guide

Why travel with audley.

  • 100% tailor-made tours
  • Fully protected travel
  • Established for over 25 years
  • 98% of our clients would recommend us

Travel advice aircraft image

Travel advice

Practical tips for traveling to Nepal, from social protocols to guidance on money matters, with a link to the latest US State Department travel advice.

The World Your Way Brochure

Request our brochure

Covering all seven continents, The World Your Way shows you how you can see the world with us. It features trip ideas from our specialists alongside hand-picked stays and experiences, and introduces our approach to creating meaningful travel experiences.

Trip ideas and travel guides for exploring Nepal

Old Nepali man

Kathmandu Valley discovered

11 days from $2,150pp

Sadus at Pashupatinath, Kathmandu, Nepal

Discover Nepal

13 days from $4,065pp

Everest Base Camp, Nepal

Nepal trekking: walking on the roof of the world

Potter's Square, Bhaktapur

There’s more to Nepal than trekking: our highlights guide

View itinerary ideas

  • Nepal Tours
  • Nepal Travel Guide
  • When to Visit Nepal

Nepal in July: A Monsoon Experience

Illuminated Swayambhunath temple against blue sky after rain in Nepal in July.

  • 1.37K views
  • ~ mins read

July is an interesting month to travel to Nepal , precisely because it is a low season. You might have to deal with rains while you are in the country at this time, but there are advantages too. The month of July offers an excellent opportunity to soak in the cultural highlights of Kathmandu and Pokhara minus big crowds and get the best possible deals on hotels and resorts. If you are game for adventure, trekking in Nepal in July is possible too—again without having to encounter the crowds that some of these trekking routes see during peak tourist seasons.

  • Trip snf Tour

Nepal weather in July

Monsoon clouds hover over the township of Charikot in Dolakha

Though Nepal is smaller in size than the state of Michigan, it has three distinct geographical and climatic zones—the plains of the Terai, the Himalayan region, and the mid-hills (this region includes tourist hotspots such as Kathmandu and Pokhara). Nepal’s weather in July, therefore, varies according to the region. Overall, it is hot and humid in most parts of the country (except in high hills and mountains), and July in Nepal is often the wettest month of the year.

Temperatures in the capital city of Kathmandu range from 20°C to 28°C, while the average minimum temperature in Pokhara during this time is 20°C. However, despite rains, you will be able to easily cover top-rated sights in Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Lalitpur, the three cities that together make the Kathmandu Valley, and some amazing trekking trails.

Get a seasonal outline of the country, by reading our travel guide on the best time to visit Nepal .

Weather in Nepal in July - Rainfall and Temperatures

Why visit nepal in july.

View of Phewa Lake with colorful boats queued on its shores

Nepal is a country that is a joy to visit throughout the year with no scarcity of places to explore and activities to take part in. Nonetheless, here are a few very good reasons to visit Nepal in July :

  • No crowds: July is off-season for tourism in Nepal. You can explore monuments and national parks without being caught in the middle of a crowd.
  • Low costs: Tour operators and hotels slash their prices to draw visitors to Nepal in July. So, if you visit Nepal in July, it will be the cheapest possible trip to the country that you can dream of.
  • Pleasant weather in Pokhara: The weather in Pokhara is ideal during this time of year for an outdoor stroll around Lakeside as well as for short hikes to surrounding hills. When the rain stops, you will quite literally have the entire town to yourself. You might also find some great deals in restaurants at this time of the year.
  • Trekking surprise: There are some surprisingly good treks that you can carry out in July in Nepal. Because of its location, the relatively dry Upper Mustang and the Nar Phu Valley can be explored on foot. You can also go on a hiking trip to Upper Dolpo, a high-mountain area with an arid, desert-like landscape.

Where to go and what to do

Basantapur Durbar Square in the ancient city of Kathmandu, Nepal

There are many cool things to see and do in Nepal in July. Tick off the highlights of the three ancient cities of the Kathmandu Valley and marvel at the exquisite craftsmanship that can be seen in their palaces, durbar squares, and temples. Gaze at the Annapurna range during your stay in Pokhara soak up the calmness of serene lakes around the city. 

Visit the heritage town of Tansen and admire the master weavers of ‘dhaka’ (a traditional fabric) as they work their magic. Take your first steps in the hallowed Lumbini, where Lord Buddha was born more than 2,500 years ago. Discover Manang, a highland town where Tibetan Buddhism is still the way of life, and hike through quaint hamlets, idyllic pastures, rocky terrains, and forests full of rhododendrons en route to the town. For more ideas, make sure to go through our travel guide on the things to do while in Nepal . 

Traveling to Nepal in July might not be everyone’s cup of tea. However, there are few areas in the country that cannot be visited at this time of year. Temperatures, except in the plains, are not sweltering hot, and, barring rains, there is no other deterrence. On the plus side, the Unesco-listed monuments of Kathmandu look beautiful after the first few showers, while greenery erupts in the country’s lowland jungles. Check out our travel guide on how many days to spend in Nepal for more ideas and insights. Our travel experts in Nepal can help you choose the right customizable tour to Nepal in July. 

Related articles: Nepal in June Nepal in August Summer in Nepal Nepal private tours Nepal group tours

Related Articles

Best Time To Visit Nepal

Best Time To Visit Nepal

If you are looking for the best time to visit... read more

Nepal in January: Weather, Deals and More

Nepal in January: Weather, Deals and More

January is the middle of winter and the colde... read more

Nepal in February: Wildlife Sighting in Cold Weather

Nepal in February: Wildlife Sighting in Cold Weather

As February enters, the woes of winter start ... read more

Nepal in March: Celebrations and Spring Weather

Nepal in March: Celebrations and Spring Weather

With the end of the winter season and the beg... read more

Nepal in April: Weather and Peak Season Tips

Nepal in April: Weather and Peak Season Tips

Looking for a great month to trek the Himalay... read more

Nepal in May: Clear Weather and Trekking Season

Nepal in May: Clear Weather and Trekking Season

May is the end of one of two high seasons in ... read more

Nepal in June: Monsoon Weather Greenery

Nepal in June: Monsoon Weather Greenery

Although June marks the start of the monsoon ... read more

Nepal in August: Travel Tips for Monsoon Weather

Nepal in August: Travel Tips for Monsoon Weather

Known for its high mountain peaks and spectac... read more

Nepal in September: The Start of Fall Season

Nepal in September: The Start of Fall Season

Monsoon rains gradually dissipate all over th... read more

Nepal in October: Weather and Festivities

Nepal in October: Weather and Festivities

The fall season is the best time to visit Nep... read more

Nepal in November: Ideal Weather and Festivities

Nepal in November: Ideal Weather and Festivities

With the monsoon season long over and winter ... read more

Nepal in December: Weather, Tips & Trekking

Nepal in December: Weather, Tips & Trekking

While visiting Nepal in December might not be... read more

Summer in Nepal: Top Destinations and Weather Advice

Summer in Nepal: Top Destinations and Weather Advice

Home to the mighty Himalayas and the vibrant ... read more

Winter in Nepal: Weather Tips and Top Destinations

Winter in Nepal: Weather Tips and Top Destinations

Nepal is a treasure trove for travelers, not ... read more

Related Categories

  • How Long To Stay In Nepal
  • Nepal Travel Advice
  • Trekking In Nepal
  • What To Do In Nepal
  • When To Visit Nepal
  • Where To Go In Nepal

Shiv Raj Singh

  • U Unique Adventure International Pvt Ltd Feb 24 2023 REPLY Thank you for the comment Dolma Tours. If you have any questions regarding tourism of Nepal, please do not hesitate to write comment. We would be glad to answer your every query. Happy reading :).
  • D Dolma Tours Feb 24 2023 REPLY Thank you so much for such a lovely article with informative content. Hope to see more of a similar article.

Popular Destinations

  • Europe Tours
  • Everest Base Camp Trek
  • Italy Tours
  • Spain Tours
  • Argentina Tours
  • Canada Tours
  • Sri Lanka Tours
  • Chile Tours
  • Antarctica Tours

TOP TOURS

  • 1 800 970 7299
  • Live Chat (Online) Live Chat (Offline)
  • My Wishlist
  • Find a Trip

Your browser 'Internet Explorer' is out of date. Update your browser for more security, comfort and the best experience on this site.

Hikers trekking between two peaks on the Annapurna Basecamp trek

  • Best time to visit Nepal
  • Destinations

When is the best time of year to visit Nepal?

The best time to visit Nepal is pre- and post-monsoon (March to April and September to November), especially if you want to go trekking . Spring (March to May) is a particularly beautiful season as the rhododendrons are in bloom. That being said, there’s still lots to do even in the off-season (not to mention a jam-packed calendar of cultural and religious festivals), so you're bound to have a brilliant trip no matter when you go. Here’s our month-by-month guide to travel in Nepal.

Intrepid Travel Nepal Everest base camp

Everest Base Camp Trek

15 days from 1428.

Embark on the trek of a lifetime to Everest Base Camp on this tour. Fly into Lukla and...

Travellers at Annapurna, Nepal

Annapurna Circuit Trek

15 days from 1440.

Go trekking in Nepal on an adventure that takes you around the Annapurna Circuit. From...

Everest Base Camp Trek for young adults

Epic Everest Base Camp Trek

15 days from 1224.

Embark on the trek of a lifetime to Everest Base Camp on this trekking trip. Fly into...

HNPN - Group touring around Kathmandu admiring prayer flags

Premium Nepal

9 days from 2813.

Take a Premium adventure that encompasses much of what makes Nepal so beloved by...

is july good time to visit nepal

Tailor-Made trips

Take four or more on an exclusive trip and tailor your itinerary

A traveller watching a rhino drinking water in Chitwam National Park

Best for: crowd-free trails, clear skies, wildlife spotting in Chitwan National Park

January is a magical time to trek in the Himalayas thanks to little to no rainfall. Despite being the coldest month, there are consistently clear skies and the mountain views are some of the best all year. Popular treks like Everest Base Camp and the Annapurna Circuit typically aren’t busy, so there’ll be less foot traffic and fantastic photo ops on the trails.

If trekking isn’t your thing, January is slap bang in the middle of the dry season in Chitwan National Park, so it’s an ideal time to spot wildlife. It can be hectic in the capital of Kathmandu and other major cities due to domestic travelers celebrating the New Year, but it's a great time to immerse yourself in Nepalese culture if you enjoy the hustle and bustle.

Best for: trekking, small crowds, Maha Shivaratri, Tibetan New Year

The bite of winter in the high Himalaya eases towards the end of the month, and signs of spring start appearing. As an off-season, the trails are still crowd-free and sunny skies make for near-perfect trekking conditions (win-win!).

February is also a great month to experience some of Nepal’s major religious festivals. One of them is Maha Shivaratri, an auspicious Hindu festival that sees thousands of devotees gathering at Kathmandu’s Pashupatinath Temple to pray, chant and take part in rituals to worship Lord Shiva.

There’s also the Losar festival (Tibetan New Year) celebrated by the Sherpa, Tibetan, Tamang, Bhutia and Yolmo peoples. Each community has unique traditions, but they often involve ceremonial dances at local monasteries and family feasts of chaps (deep-friend pastries), guthuk (dumpling soup) and other specialties. You’ll undoubtedly be invited to join in the festivities if you’re trekking in the Himalayas.

A group of Intrepid hikers posing for a photo with Mt Everest in the background

Best for: Holi festival, trekking, spring blooms

One word: Holi! Nepal is a predominantly Hindu country, and Holi is a big deal. This ancient Hindu festival celebrates the eternal love between deities Radha and Krishna and the welcoming of spring. Expect a riot of color, folk music, roaring bonfires and lots of laughter as you join locals to (literally) throw bright-colored powders over each other.

March also marks the first of Nepal’s two peak trekking seasons (the other being September to November). The days get longer, and some higher-altitude trails become accessible again. The highlight of trekking in March is the beautiful rhododendrons that bloom and add a splash of red and pink to the (already incredible) landscape – there’s no sight quite like it. Some of the prettiest flowers are in Langtang Valley and the Everest Region.

Best for: trekking, spring blooms Bisket Jatra

April is one of the busiest months in Nepal, and for good reason. The warmer weather creates ideal conditions to tackle higher passes, and mountain meadows and forests are filled with sweet-smelling blooms. It can get quite hot towards the end of the month, with temperatures in Kathmandu and Pokhara reaching the low 30s. If you’re not keen on the heat, head out of the city to the Trisuli River to enjoy cooler temperatures and fresh air.

April also sees the eyebrow-raising festivities of Bisket Jatra, a nine-day festival to welcome the arrival of spring. Celebrated in Bhaktapur Durbar Square and Thimi, a massive chariot of two deities, Bhairav and Bhadrakali, is pulled through the city and two neighborhoods battle it out in an intense tug of war to bring it to their area. Crowds also throw vermillion powder over each other while singing folk songs and dancing in the streets.

A man warming his hands over butter lamps in Kathmandu, Nepal

Best for: trekking, Buddha Jayanti

May is the last month of spring (and the final month to trek before the monsoon). Temperatures begin to climb with hot and sticky conditions in Kathmandu Valley and Pokhara, but it’s glorious weather to hike up the mountains where a cooler climate awaits. Afternoon showers become more frequent towards the end of the month, but it’s usually not wet enough to disrupt your travel plans.

A highlight in May’s festival calendar is Buddha Jayanti, AKA Buddha’s birthday. Celebrated on May's full Moon, locals decorate their homes with pretty butter lamps, visit temples and monasteries in white clothing to make offerings and pray, and eat kheer (a sweet rice pudding).

Two travellers on a rickshaw in Kathmandu in Nepal

Best for: thinner crowds, cultural activities

June marks the start of summer and the rainy season. While it doesn’t rain all day, you can expect some rain every day (the afternoons usually bring heavy downpours). Trekking isn’t recommended during the monsoon as the trails are muddy (and you’ll likely encounter leeches), rivers swell and thick cloud cover can hide the mountains.

If you don’t mind the heat, there’s plenty to do in Kathmandu (even when it’s raining). Stroll the city’s frenetic streets alongside holy men, monks and sacred cows, peruse the markets and bazaars or watch pilgrims bathing along the banks of the sacred Bagmati River.

Best for: scenic flights over the Himalayas, cultural activities

July is one of the quietest months in Nepal. Trekking isn’t recommended in some areas as the monsoon rains saturate the ground and increase the risk of landslides, though hikes in Kathmandu Valley are still doable. Frequent road closures can also make it challenging to get around.

If you’re itching to see the Himalayas, why not take off on a scenic flight from Kathmandu? You’ll be treated to stunning views of the Himalayas in just an hour. You could also learn how to whip up Nepalese fare at a cooking class or visit one of the city’s many temples.

Best for: Twenty Thousand Lakes, Everest Base Camp trek with small crowds

The rain eases at the end of August and the landscape starts flourishing with greenery again. Everest Base Camp treks kick off again, and while it's warm and wet at lower elevations, the weather will get cooler and drier as you ascend the mountains. The plus side is that there aren’t as many trekkers, so you’ll have the views (almost) all to yourself.

August is also a great month to visit Twenty Thousand Lakes (Bis Hajaar Tal) near Chitwan National Park. Explore a maze of small lakes teeming with wildlife, including crocs and hundreds of migratory bird species. If you’re lucky, you might spot the Indian rhino.

A local Nepalese woman walking and carrying fresh produce on her head in the countryside

Best for: trekking, white water rafting, Indra Jatra festival

The monsoon usually ends mid-September and clouds make way for blue skies. Hikers return to the trails in large numbers towards the end of the month as conditions continue to improve and teahouses (guesthouses) open up again. With high river water levels, thrill seekers can get their kicks on a white water rafting adventure on the Trisuli, Bhote Kosi or Upper Seti rivers.

If you’re in Kathmandu, be sure to check out the Indra Jatra festival, where you can watch the chariot of Kumari, Nepal’s Living Goddess, carried through the streets to a procession of loud drums.

Best for: trekking, white water rafting, camping by the Trisuli River, Dashain

October marks Nepal’s second trekking season of the year. Trail conditions are near-perfect, and you’ll be treated to incredible views of the Himalayas thanks to clear skies. If you want to tick off Base Camp, Annapurna or Poon Hill, now’s the time. Just remember that it’ll be busy (October is one of the peak tourist months).

White water rafting season is also in full swing, and now that the heavy rain has stopped, you can camp under the twinkling Nepalese skies on the banks of the Trisuli River. Culture vultures will also love Dashain, a two-week festival in honor of the Hindu goddess Durga. Expect elaborate pujas (prayer rituals), feasts, kite flying, and sword and music precessions.

Locals creating a colorful mandala on the street in Kathmandu, Nepal

Best for: trekking, Diwali

Prime hiking conditions continue into November with very little rain, low humidity and clear skies. The temperature gets considerably colder, but a few extra warm layers are worth it for the unobstructed vistas.

If you’re around for Tihar (also known as Diwali), you’re in for a real treat. Hindus, Jains and Sikhs celebrate this religious festival to deter darkness with light and celebrate the triumph of good over evil. Thousands of lights illuminate Nepal's cities and towns, fireworks light up the sky and locals draw beautiful mandalas outside their homes.

Best for: wildlife watching in Chitwan National Park, smaller crowds

Crowds start to thin out as icy temperatures take hold. However, the weather is mostly dry, so if you don’t mind layering up, it can be a magical time to explore with a backdrop of the snow-clad Himalayas. It’s much warmer on lower ground and in the country's southern reaches, which can see highs of 77°F.

December is one of the best months to discover wildlife in Chitwan National Park as it’s dry and the visibility is excellent. You might get lucky and spot tigers and larger animals as they tend to congregate around waterholes.

Learn more about the weather in Nepal

Our Nepal tours

Annapurna base camp trek, 15 days from 1063.

Embark on a 15-day Annapurna trekking experience in Nepal. Cross the Himalayas,...

Classic Nepal

11 days from 1900.

Journey around Nepal from Kathmandu to Pokhara and Bandipur, meet the creatures of...

Premium Nepal & Bhutan

17 days from 7965.

Embark on a 17-day Premium adventure through the mysterious mountain kingdoms of Bhutan...

Everest Base Camp & Gokyo Lakes Trek

19 days from 1985.

Take the ultimate trek. Walk in the Himalayas surrounded by some of the most incredible...

Delhi to Kathmandu

15 days from 1688.

Travel to India and Nepal on a tour from Delhi to Kathmandu. Visit the Taj Mahal of...

One Week in Nepal

8 days from 419.

Trek your way through Nepal on a low-altitude adventure from Kathmandu to Trisuli River...

Premium India & Nepal

18 days from 6384.

Take a 18-day Premium adventure with Intrepid through India's Golden Triangle, Varanasi...

Nepal Adventure

10 days from 1509.

Travel from Kathmandu to discover Nepal’s hidden gems. Explore medieval Bhaktapur,...

two get lost logo

The Best Time To Visit Nepal (And The Worst!) 2024

Wondering when the best time to visit Nepal is? Then you’re not alone. Thousands of tourists visit this beautiful country every single year, and if this is a once-in-a-lifetime trip then you’re going to want to make sure you’ve picked the best time to visit.

Nepal is a country that offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers, from trekking in the Himalayas to exploring ancient temples and immersing oneself in the vibrant culture. And we absolutely loved getting stuck into it all.

However, choosing the right time to visit Nepal is crucial to make the most out of your trip.

Nepal’s climate and weather conditions vary significantly throughout the year, which can affect the availability of activities and the overall experience of your trip.

Before we booked our trip to Nepal we scoured the internet trying to find the best time to visit, but unfortunately for us we didn’t have availability to visit at the peak time. This was both a blessing and curse, and we’ll explain more below.

In this blog post, we will explore the best time to visit Nepal based on different factors such as weather, festivals, and activities, to help you plan your trip effectively and make it a memorable one.

Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure enthusiast, or cultural explorer, this guide will provide you with valuable insights into the ideal time to visit Nepal based on your interests and preferences.

the best time to visit nepal

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We also earn from other affiliate programs. This means we may receive a small commission on products purchased through our links at no extra cost to you.

Table Of Contents

Is nepal worth visiting, the best time to visit nepal, what is the best time to go trekking in nepal, when do most tourists visit nepal, the cheapest time to go to nepal, what month is the most hot in nepal, what is the rainy season in nepal, the worst time to visit nepal, frequently asked questions, top tips for visiting nepal.

prayer flags coming from a buddhist temple in nepal

Absolutely, Nepal is worth visiting! In our opinion anyway.

Nepal is a unique country with a rich culture, history, and stunning natural beauty. From the soaring peaks of the Himalayas to the lush jungles of Chitwan National Park, Nepal offers a diverse range of landscapes and experiences.

I think Nepal was the place where we had the most unique experiences of any of our travels. We saw tigers in the jungle, trekked in the Himalayas, and explored some of the most beautiful religious sites, including Lumbini, birth place to Buddhism.

Nepal is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the historic city of Kathmandu, which offers a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage.

The Nepali people are incredibly friendly and hospitable. Everyone will stop and bow their hellos as you walk past. The country is known for its delicious cuisine, which offers a blend of Indian, Tibetan, and Chinese flavors.

Moreover, Nepal is a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts, offering opportunities for trekking, mountaineering, rafting (the white water rafting here is amazing), and more.

Overall, Nepal is a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list, offering a unique and unforgettable experience. We highly recommend you book a visit NOW!

The best time to visit Nepal depends on various factors such as weather, festivals, and activities you plan to do. There is such a huge range of things to do in Nepal and some quite distinct weather patterns.

Here are the best times to visit Nepal based on different interests:

The best time for trekking in Nepal is during the dry season, which is from October to May. During this time, the skies are clear, and the temperature is pleasant, making it ideal for trekking in the Himalayas.

However, the peak trekking season is from October to November when the weather is at its best, and the trails are less crowded than during the spring season.

We’ve written more on this below, as let’s be honest, trekking is one of the main reasons most people visit Nepal.

Cultural Exploration

Nepal is a culturally rich country, and the best time to explore its heritage is during the festivals. The most significant festival in Nepal is Dashain, which falls between September and October, followed by Tihar in November.

During these festivals, the streets are decorated with lights, and the temples are bustling with people, offering a unique cultural experience.

Nepal does have an awful lot of festivals though, so whatever time of year you visit you will probably find there is something going on. We were there during International Womens Day and even in a remote village in Chitwan they were still celebrating with music and dancing.

Wildlife Safari

The best time for a wildlife safari in Nepal is from October to March, which is the dry season. During this time, the animals gather around waterholes, making it easier to spot them.

Mountaineering

The best time for mountaineering in Nepal is during the pre-monsoon season, which is from April to May. During this time, the weather is stable, and the snow conditions are ideal for climbing. However, the post-monsoon season, which is from September to November, is also suitable for mountaineering.

Again, we’ve written more about this in the section below.

In summary, the best time to visit Nepal depends on your interests and activities you plan to do. However, generally speaking, the best time to visit Nepal is during the dry season, which is from October to May, when the weather is favorable for most outdoor activities.

a mountain at the best time to visit Nepal

Nepal is famous for its mountains, with the Himalayas being some of the most sought-after trekking and mountaineering destinations in the world.

It’s honestly hard to imagine the scale of them until you see. They never failed to take my breath away and they are some of the most awesome views I’ve seen in my entire life.

Saying that, these mountains are no joke. No matter what kind of trek you are planning you should always take an experienced guide. These mountains constantly move and breath, whether that’s due to avalanches or landslides. They are surrounded by dense jungle that would be easy to get lost in forever, and altitude sickness is also a very real danger.

The best time to go trekking in Nepal is during the dry season, which is from October to May. During this time, the skies are clear, and the temperature is pleasant, making it ideal for trekking in the Himalayas.

The peak trekking season in Nepal is from October to November when the weather is at its best, and the trails are less crowded than during the spring season. The skies are clear, and the temperature is moderate, making it the perfect time to enjoy the stunning mountain views and natural scenery.

However, trekking during the winter months, from December to February, can also be a fantastic experience as the skies are still clear, and the trails are relatively quiet. The only drawback is that it can be very cold at higher altitudes, so proper equipment and clothing are necessary.

You should also be aware that when there is snow on the mountains, there is always an avalanche risk. You should be well versed in avalanche survival tactics and always take an experienced guide who has the proper safety communications equipment.

The great thing about trekking Nepal during the dry season is that you’re almost guaranteed incredible views.

Trekking during the spring season, from March to May, is also a popular option as the weather is still pleasant, and the flowers and vegetation start to bloom, making the landscapes even more beautiful. However, the trails can be quite crowded during this time, and there can be occasional rain showers.

During the rainy season of June through to August you’ll get regular monsoon rains and possibly absolutely no views due to cloud cover. This is more likely that you’d think, so plan carefully if you’re going for the views (which are honestly incredible).

We visited in July and August and got very, very lucky. We managed to get little glimpses of the view on most days of our 12 day trek, though they were short glimpses before the clouds rolled in again.

The other thing to note about trekking during the rainy season is that landslides aren’t uncommon. We were forced to scale our way across a recent landfall when it was blocking our exit from the mountain. It was pretty scary!

Overall, the best time to go trekking in Nepal is during the dry season, which is from October to May, depending on your preferences and trekking route. It’s essential to research your trekking route and the weather conditions beforehand to ensure you have the best possible trekking experience.

The peak tourist season in Nepal is from September to November and from March to May. During this time, the weather is pleasant and dry, and the skies are clear, making it the perfect time to explore Nepal’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor activities.

The September to November period is the best time for trekking in Nepal, and it coincides with the Dashain and Tihar festivals, which are the most significant festivals in Nepal. This period attracts a large number of tourists who come to Nepal to witness the festivities and explore the country’s natural beauty.

The March to May period is also a popular time to visit Nepal as the weather is mild, and the flowers and vegetation start to bloom, making the landscapes even more beautiful. This period is perfect for exploring Nepal’s cultural heritage, as many festivals and events take place during this time.

However, it’s worth noting that the peak tourist season can also mean higher prices, crowded tourist destinations, and limited availability of accommodations and services.

If you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, it’s best to consider visiting Nepal during the shoulder seasons, which are from February to April and from September to November, or during the winter months from December to February.

During these periods, the weather can still be pleasant, and there are fewer tourists, making it a great time to explore Nepal’s natural beauty and cultural heritage without the crowds.

colourful boats in Pokhara, nepal

The cheapest time to visit Nepal is generally during the monsoon season, which runs from June to August. During this period, the tourist inflow decreases, and prices for accommodation, flights, and other services tend to be lower than during the peak tourist season.

However, it’s important to note that the monsoon season brings heavy rain showers, and some roads and trekking routes may be inaccessible or challenging to navigate. Outdoor activities such as trekking, rafting, and mountain climbing may also be limited or not recommended during this time.

Another option for budget-conscious travelers is to visit Nepal during the winter months, from December to February, which is considered the low season for tourism.

While the temperature can be cold, and some higher-altitude trekking routes may be closed, it’s still possible to explore the lower elevations and enjoy the cultural attractions in cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara.

Overall, if you’re looking for the cheapest time to visit Nepal, consider planning your trip during the monsoon season or the winter low season, but keep in mind that some activities may be limited, and the weather may not be ideal for outdoor adventures.

The hottest month in Nepal is generally considered to be May, which falls during the pre-monsoon season. During this month, the temperature in the lower elevations, including Kathmandu Valley, can reach up to 30-35 degrees Celsius (86-95 degrees Fahrenheit).

May is also the month when Nepal’s pre-monsoon season starts, which brings hot and humid weather with occasional thunderstorms and rain showers. The high humidity and hot temperatures can make it challenging to explore the outdoors, especially for activities such as trekking and mountaineering.

However, it’s worth noting that the temperature can vary depending on the altitude and location in Nepal. For example, in mountainous regions, the temperature can be much lower, and in higher elevations, it can be quite cold even during the hottest months.

Overall, if you’re planning to visit Nepal during the hottest month of May, it’s best to be prepared for the heat and humidity by wearing lightweight and breathable clothing, staying hydrated, and taking breaks in shaded areas.

is july good time to visit nepal

The rainy season in Nepal is known as the monsoon season, which usually starts in early June and lasts until late September. During this period, the country receives the majority of its annual rainfall, particularly in the southern and eastern regions.

The monsoon season in Nepal is characterized by heavy rain showers, high humidity, and occasional thunderstorms, particularly in the afternoons and evenings. The rainfall can cause flooding, landslides, and disruption of transportation and infrastructure, particularly in rural areas.

Despite the challenges posed by the monsoon season, it can also be a beautiful time to visit Nepal, particularly in the lush greenery of the country’s forests and hills.

It’s important to keep in mind that some trekking routes may be inaccessible or challenging to navigate during the monsoon season, and outdoor activities such as rafting and mountaineering may also be limited.

Overall, if you plan to visit Nepal during the rainy season, it’s important to prepare for the weather conditions by bringing waterproof gear, planning indoor activities, and being flexible with your itinerary in case of disruptions.

Nepal is a beautiful country to visit throughout the year, and the best time to visit depends on your personal preferences and interests. However, there are a few periods that are not recommended for visiting Nepal due to weather conditions or other factors that may affect your travel experience.

The winter months, from December to February, can be quite cold in Nepal, particularly in the higher elevations. Some trekking routes may be closed or challenging to navigate, and outdoor activities such as rafting and mountain climbing may be limited.

However, it’s still possible to explore the lower elevations and enjoy cultural attractions in cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara.

The monsoon season, which runs from June to September, can be challenging for travel due to heavy rainfall, landslides, and flooding. Trekking and outdoor activities may be limited or not recommended during this period, and transportation and infrastructure may be disrupted, particularly in rural areas.

In addition, it’s important to consider Nepal’s festivals and events when planning your visit. During peak festival times, such as the Dashain and Tihar festivals in October and November, accommodation prices can be higher, and tourist destinations may be crowded.

Overall, it’s essential to do your research and plan accordingly based on your interests, preferences, and the season in Nepal.

While there may be certain periods that are not ideal for travel, Nepal remains a beautiful and captivating destination throughout the year.

Here are some of your most commonly asked questions answered!

How Many Days In Nepal Is Enough?

prayer flags at the best time to visit nepal

The number of days you need to spend in Nepal depends on your travel interests, goals, and itinerary.

If you’re interested in trekking, you’ll need to set aside more time than if you’re only interested in visiting the cities and cultural attractions. Additionally, the duration of your trip will also depend on your budget and how much time you have available.

Generally, a minimum of seven to ten days is recommended for a first-time visit to Nepal, which would allow you to explore the main highlights of the country, including Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan National Park. This time frame would also allow you to do some short treks or day hikes in the surrounding areas.

If you’re interested in trekking in the Himalayas, you’ll need to set aside more time, as most treks take at least a week to complete. The Everest Base Camp trek, for example, takes about 12-14 days, while the Annapurna Circuit trek can take up to 21 days. Additionally, you’ll need to factor in a few days for acclimatization, rest, and travel.

Ultimately, the ideal duration of your trip to Nepal depends on your travel goals, interests, and budget.

Whether you’re interested in cultural sightseeing, trekking, adventure sports, or spiritual exploration, Nepal has a lot to offer, and you can customize your itinerary to fit your preferences and available time.

What Is The Best Month To Visit Kathmandu

Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, can be visited and enjoyed throughout the year.

The peak tourist season in Kathmandu is from September to November, after the monsoon season has ended, and the weather is dry and mild. During this period, the city is bustling with activity, and there are several festivals and events, including the Dashain and Tihar festivals.

However, it’s also the busiest time of the year, and prices for accommodation and flights can be higher.

Another good time to visit Kathmandu is from February to April, during the spring season when the weather is warm and dry. This is an excellent time for sightseeing, trekking, and other outdoor activities, and the city is less crowded than during the peak tourist season.

If you prefer to avoid the crowds and save some money, the offseason from June to August can be a good time to visit Kathmandu.

Although it’s the monsoon season, the rains are not continuous, and you can still enjoy some sunny days. However, you’ll need to be prepared for the occasional downpour, and some trekking routes and outdoor activities may be limited.

Ultimately, the best month to visit Kathmandu depends on your interests, preferences, and travel goals. Whether you’re interested in cultural sightseeing, trekking, adventure sports, or spiritual exploration, Kathmandu has a lot to offer, and you can customize your itinerary to fit your needs.

The Best Time To Visit Pokhara

mountains covered in snow surrounding a lake in nepal

Pokhara is a popular tourist destination in Nepal, known for its stunning natural beauty, lakes, and adventure sports. It’s also the jumping off point for the Annapurna mountain range trek, which is the one we did and it’s absolutely incredible.

The best time to visit Pokhara depends on your preferences and interests.

The peak tourist season in Pokhara is from September to November, after the monsoon season has ended, and the weather is dry and mild. During this period, you can enjoy clear skies, stunning views of the Himalayan peaks, and participate in adventure sports like paragliding, bungee jumping, and rafting.

Another good time to visit Pokhara is from February to April, during the spring season when the weather is warm and dry. This is an excellent time for sightseeing, trekking, and other outdoor activities, and the city is less crowded than during the peak tourist season.

If you’re interested in trekking, the autumn and spring seasons are the best times to visit Pokhara. During these periods, the weather is clear, and the visibility is excellent, making it perfect for trekking in the nearby Annapurna range.

The monsoon season from June to August isn’t the best time for trekking but we did ours in August and loved it. The tracks felt more dangerous as they were slippy and we saw frequent evidence of landslides, but with an experienced guide and some mountain knowledge you should be ok. You might not see any view at all though due to cloud cover.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Pokhara depends on your interests, preferences, and travel goals. Whether you’re interested in adventure sports, trekking, sightseeing, or simply relaxing by the lake, Pokhara has a lot to offer, and you can customize your itinerary to fit your needs.

What Is The Best Month To Visit Nepal?

Nepal has a diverse geography and climate, with varying temperatures and weather conditions throughout the year. However, generally, the best time to visit Nepal is from September to November and from February to April. It’s hard to pin it down to a certain month.

The period from September to November is the peak tourist season in Nepal, after the monsoon season has ended.

The weather is dry and mild, and the skies are clear, making it perfect for trekking, sightseeing, and outdoor activities. The views of the Himalayan peaks are spectacular during this period, and several festivals and events, including Dashain and Tihar, take place.

The period from February to April is also an excellent time to visit Nepal, as the weather is warm and dry. The skies are clear, and the visibility is excellent, making it perfect for trekking and other outdoor activities. The rhododendrons are in bloom during this period, adding to the beauty of the landscape.

If you’re interested in trekking, the autumn and spring seasons are the best times to visit Nepal, as the weather is favorable, and the visibility is excellent.

However, if you prefer to avoid the crowds and save some money, the offseason from June to August can be a good time to visit Nepal, especially for exploring the cities and cultural attractions. However, the monsoon season can limit outdoor activities and trekking.

Ultimately, the best month to visit Nepal depends on your interests, preferences, and travel goals. Whether you’re interested in trekking, adventure sports, cultural sightseeing, or spiritual exploration, Nepal has a lot to offer, and you can customize your itinerary to fit your needs.

horses crossing a rope bridge in the mountains in nepal

Visiting Nepal can be an incredible experience, full of adventure, culture, and stunning natural beauty. Here are some top tips to make the most of your trip to Nepal:

  • Pack appropriately: Nepal has a diverse climate, and you need to pack accordingly. Bring warm clothing, especially if you’re planning to trek in the mountains, as the weather can be chilly, especially at higher elevations. Also, pack comfortable walking shoes, a sun hat, and sunscreen.
  • Take precautions against altitude sickness: If you’re planning to trek in the mountains, take precautions against altitude sickness. Acclimatize gradually and stay hydrated. It’s also a good idea to carry medication for altitude sickness, just in case. The locals drink ginger soup which you can get at the tea houses along the way.
  • Respect local customs and culture: Nepal is a culturally rich country, and it’s essential to respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and religious sites. Also, ask for permission before taking photographs of people and respect their privacy.
  • Use a reputable trekking agency: If you’re planning to trek in the mountains, use a reputable trekking agency. They can provide you with experienced guides, porters, and the necessary equipment. They can also ensure that you’re trekking responsibly and following environmental and cultural guidelines.
  • Stay in locally owned accommodations: Staying in locally owned accommodations, such as homestays and guesthouses, can help support the local economy and give you a more authentic experience of Nepal.
  • Be mindful of the environment: Nepal is a beautiful country, and it’s essential to be mindful of the environment. Avoid littering and use reusable water bottles instead of single-use plastics.
  • Try the local cuisine: Nepali cuisine is delicious and diverse. Don’t be afraid to try local dishes, such as momos and dal bhat. Also, try the locally brewed tea and coffee, which is grown in the mountains.
  • Learn some Nepali phrases: Learning some basic Nepali phrases can go a long way in connecting with the locals and showing respect for their culture. Simple greetings such as “Namaste” and “Dhanyabad” (thank you) can make a significant difference in your interactions.

By following these tips, you can have a more enjoyable and meaningful experience in Nepal.

Conclusion: The Best Time To Visit Nepal

Nepal is a stunningly beautiful country with a diverse geography, rich culture, and warm and hospitable people. The best time to visit Nepal depends on your interests, preferences, and travel goals.

However, the peak tourist season in Nepal is from September to November and from February to April. During these months, the weather is mild and dry, making it perfect for trekking, sightseeing, and other outdoor activities.

The views of the Himalayan peaks are spectacular during this period, and several festivals and events take place, adding to the cultural richness of the experience.

The offseason from June to August can be a good time to visit Nepal, especially for exploring the cities and cultural attractions, but the monsoon season can limit outdoor activities and trekking.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Nepal is the one that suits your preferences and travel goals, and by following the tips mentioned above, you can have an enjoyable and memorable experience in this beautiful country.

Similar Posts

111+ Couple Travel Quotes For Instagram 2024

111+ Couple Travel Quotes For Instagram 2024

Is Nepal Safe To Visit In 2023?

Is Nepal Safe To Visit In 2023?

The Best Places To Visit In Chitwan National Park

The Best Places To Visit In Chitwan National Park

Is Nepal In India? The Location Of Nepal

Is Nepal In India? The Location Of Nepal

The 21 Best Things To Do In Pokhara 2023

The 21 Best Things To Do In Pokhara 2023

Backpacking Nepal: The Ultimate Guide

Backpacking Nepal: The Ultimate Guide

One comment.

Without a doubt, this Nepal guide ranks among the finest.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  • Search Search Hi! We’re Emily, Adam and Tiny Cat, liveaboard sailors travelling the world on our 38ft sailboat and writing about it as we go. We hope we can inspire you to live the life you’ve always dreamed, whether that’s exploring the world or living a more simple way of life in a tiny home. Find out more. Patreon
  • Privacy Policy
  • Health & Fitness
  • Gold & Silver Price in Nepal
  • Preeti to Unicode Converter
  • Unicode to Preeti Converter
  • Nepali Rashifal Horoscope 2080 / 2023
  • Nepali Calendar 2080
  • Nepali Panchang Patro With Tithi
  • Nepali To English Date Converter – BS to AD – Age – Date of Birth
  • English To Nepali Date – AD to BS | Age | Date of Birth
  • Forex Exchange

Nepal in July: Travel Tips, & Climatic Conditions

Kapil Karki

What is the Weather Condition of Nepal in July?

Nepal in July can be an interesting time to visit, but it also comes with some considerations due to the weather and other factors. Nepal in July means the peak of the monsoon season. The beautiful month allows people to observe monsoon clouds and weird changing shapes. Farmers are usually busy in their fields planting and plowing. The rivers get to their fullest and wash up everything on their way with its thunderous current. The jungle, however, radiates a clean green scenery with constant rain and washing. As such, the monsoon rain symbolizes cleansing both on physical and spiritual levels.

Precisely speaking, Kathmandu maintains a daily temperature of 24 degrees Celsius or 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Other tourist destinations like Chitwan and Lumbini are a bit warmer and have an average temperature of 97F or 36C. When it comes to rainfall, Pokhara is in a league of its own. It receives the maximum rainfall among all major cities. With an average of 21 days of rain this month, the roads are wet, and the sloping sides are damp.

On the brighter side, the rainfall does not last the whole day. You will experience heavy rain for a few hours. Rest as much as you can during rainfall and hit the roads as soon as the clouds start scattering. Sometimes walking in a drizzle can lighten up your mood. Don’t overcomplicate your thinking process and enjoy the circumstances as they come.

Why Should You Choose Nepal for Trekking in July?

Sunrise is kind of a desert for those starting their trek very early in the morning. In July, we usually get rain at night, which leads to a clear sky and a mesmerizing sunrise. There are several viewpoints on the trail which are famous for sightseeing.

Rainy season means not everyone has the guts to hit the trekking roads during this time. The trails are less likely to get crowded, and you can enjoy your time with nature without any humans disrupting your nature bonding.

Fewer tourists mean people cherish the few travellers that they get to meet. This situation helps you to observe and enjoy the rich culture without any haste and maximum hospitality.

Rainy season means the vegetation gets enough water to retain its natural beauty. The rivers are on their youth-peak, and the fields are green and blooming. In other words, you will experience the feast with your eyes.

July is an off-season for Trekking and travelling. The tourism industry is almost dry, and the prices go down. You can enjoy your travel at this time of year without busting your banks.

Here are some things to keep in mind if you plan to visit Nepal in July:

  • Monsoon Season: July falls during the monsoon season in Nepal, which means you can expect heavy rainfall, especially in the southern and central regions of the country. The monsoon season typically lasts from June to September. While the lush green landscapes can be beautiful, the rain can also disrupt travel plans and make trekking and outdoor activities more challenging.
  • Trekking: If you’re planning to go trekking in Nepal, be prepared for wet and muddy trails. Some of the popular trekking regions like the Annapurna and Langtang regions can still be hiked, but you’ll need to be cautious about slippery paths and leeches. Make sure to bring appropriate rain gear and waterproof clothing.
  • Fewer Tourists: July is not a peak tourist season in Nepal due to the monsoon, so you can expect fewer tourists. This can be an advantage if you prefer a quieter and more peaceful experience. Accommodation and services may also be more affordable during this time.
  • Wildlife: The monsoon season is a great time for wildlife enthusiasts, as many animals are more active during this period. National parks and wildlife reserves, such as Chitwan National Park and Bardia National Park, are lush and green, making it a good time for jungle safaris and wildlife viewing.
  • Festivals: July may coincide with some important Nepali festivals, such as Guru Purnima and Nag Panchami. These festivals offer a unique cultural experience, and you can witness various rituals and celebrations if you’re in Nepal during this time.
  • Road Conditions: Due to heavy rainfall, road conditions in some parts of Nepal may deteriorate, leading to landslides and road closures. It’s essential to stay updated on road conditions and be prepared for potential delays in your travel plans.
  • Altitude Considerations: If you plan to visit high-altitude regions, such as the Everest Base Camp, be aware that the weather can be unpredictable, and flights to Lukla may be disrupted due to fog and rain.

Visiting Nepal in July can be rewarding if you are prepared for the monsoon season and the associated challenges. It’s an excellent time for cultural experiences, wildlife enthusiasts, and those seeking a quieter travel experience. However, if trekking is a significant part of your itinerary, be ready for wet and muddy conditions, and consider alternative trekking regions with lower chances of rain.

Some Destinations in Nepal You Might Enjoy During July

If you are visiting Nepal in July, the trekking choices are very less as compared to other seasons. These places are the best choices as they lie in the rain shadow area. We have a list that might come to your aid while choosing your trek routes:

List of Best 5 Places to Visit in Nepal in July

1. upper mustang.

Upper Mustang

Making your way through high peaks, mighty glaciers, alpine valleys, and high passes, you finally get to the upper belt of Mustang. Since the place is closer to China, you will find a massive influence of China on the residents. You can enjoy the panoramic views of peaks like Nilgiri, Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and many others with a touch of Buddhist culture.

2. Upper Dolpo Trek

Upper Dolpo

This destination lies in the mid-western region of Nepal. The culture and lifestyle have remained untouched over the years due to the location. The major attraction of the journey is the magnificent views of Mount Dhaulagiri and the beautiful Shey Phoksundo Lake. The Lake is unreal and has crystal clear water that reflects the mountains surround it.

3. Rara Lake Trek

Rara Lake

Another lake takes its place in the list of places to visit in Nepal in July. Rara Lake is the biggest Lake of Nepal located at an altitude of 3050 meters. The Lake lies within the boundaries of Rara National Park. Make your way through the forest and steep roads. Making your way through the oak, pines, and rhododendron (Nepal’s national flower) trees, you will see the magnificent beauty of this Lake.

4. Nar Phu Valley

Nar Phu Valley

This valley lies in the northeast sector of the Annapurna region. You will reach the valley if you take the Annapurna circuit and is one of the ideal places for visiting in Nepal in July. The narrow canyons, ancient monasteries, unique cultural diversity, and fantastic rock formations are the deserts for your trekking meal. You can feast your eyes on the astounding view of Manaslu, Machhapuchhre, and Lamjung Himalayas.

5. Jomsom Muktinath Trek

Jomsom Muktinath

Also famous as the gateway to the upper mustang trek, Jomsom is a must when it comes to Trekking in Nepal in July. You will experience several terrain changes and the climate variations it welcomes. The main attraction of this journey is the Muktinath Temple and a hot spring named Tatopani. Feel free to savor the Gurung and Thakali cultural diversities along the way.

Some Tips for Travelling Nepal in July

If you want to cover a long distance in a single day, it is better to start early from the morning. The afternoons are likely to bring a torrential downpour, which might make the roads slippery and filled with puddles. The damp and muddy roads will decrease your walking pace.

Precipitation is beautiful to watch as you sip a coffee under a roof but may pose a problem while travelling. Use waterproof backpacks to keep your belongings safe and high-grip shoes to avoid slipping. It is better to carry waterproof clothes to prevent cold water from entering your body.

Some people have allergies to bugs, and some can’t stand the sight of slimy and crawling bugs across their bodies. Also, wet ground invites a hell lot of parasites. It is always wise to carry some insect repellent remedies with you.

There are numerous cases of tourists jeopardizing their “perfect-plan” due to flight delays. Bad weather can delay your flights sometimes. Keep a flexible routine, and try to enjoy the circumstances as they come. Use uncertainty as a flavour to season your travel.

Festivals and Events that fall in the July Season

Although Nepal has a lot of Hindu followers, you can find many other religions in different parts of the country. Religion diversity means a lot of festivals throughout the year. Make sure to engage in seasonal celebrations to make the most out of your travel. To maximize your cultural experience in Nepal in July, we have a list of festivals that fall under this month.

1. Eid ul Azha:

This festival, as the name suggests, belongs to the Muslim community. It is celebrated for two days starting from the 30th of July and ends on the next day. The whole country celebrates a public holiday on this occasion. This festival marks the end of the Ramadan fast and focuses on the merry side of the celebration.

In Nepal, the people head out early to the mosque with festive clothes and a smile on their faces. As usual, they offer prayers to their almighty and listen to a special Bakra-Eid message that revolves around the Koranic story of Ibrahim’s sacrifice. People return their homes after greeting and have a slaughter of the sacrificial animal. They tend to keep a third of the meat of the family feast and give the rest to the poor and relatives.

This festival is dominant in the capital city of Kathmandu, which inhibits a considerable population of the Newar community. Also, they have to belong to a limited group of people who follow Buddhism. The month-long festival involves fasting, prayer, meditation, and religious music.

To fully observe this festival, try going to the Swoyambhunath temple early in the morning. You can find a lot of worshippers climbing the stairs of the stupa and offering their prayers to the Buddha. The monasteries get filled with prayer flags, oil lamps, and different other decoratives.

3. Naag Panchami:

This festival lies on the 27th of July. The whole concept dates back to hundreds of years ago. It turns out that the Kathmandu valley was once a vast lake. When people dried out the Lake for inhabitation, the “nagas” or the snakes became angry with the people.

To protect themselves from the rage of these snakes, the people allocated a day to worship the snakes and offered their prayers. The custom has sustained for a long time, and people still fulfill their duties to this day.

4. Season of Rice Planting

Some other events you can witness in Nepal in July is the rice-planting festival or the “Ropain” due to the heavy rainfall. Sometimes the festival occurs a little early and is held at the end of June. You can see people participating in the planting process, enjoying their time on muddy waters, and a feast that follows the completion of the process.

5. Horse Racing

If you are lucky enough to be around the Mustang or Manang area, a horse racing festival is held either in July or August. The people participating in the sport are the “Thakalis.” They like to call the race Yartung and marks the end of the harvest.

Here in Kathmandu, the annual Kathmandu Kora Cycling Challenge gets held in this month. Cyclists from different parts of the valley compete against each other for the victor’s cup. They complete a circuit around the capital city as a part of the competition.

On inspection of different forums and comments of tourists, I came to find a neutral opinion on visiting Nepal in July month. People generally complain about the heavy rainfall, the landslides, and the floods. After all, its safety comes first, and I understand their skeptical comments entirely. People typically reach out for low altitude destinations like Chitwan and prefer Jungle Safari for relaxation.

We can also find some suggestions on the Everest region treks, but I will strongly advise against the decision. In case you go, always hire a professional to guide you through the upper belts. The majority of people recommend Dolpo, Upper Mustang, and Simikot as trekking options.

In the end, it all comes down to one’s own decision. If you prefer less-crowded Trekking, this time of year is the best. On the contrary, people who incline towards the social category can push their plans a bit further, which means the end of the downpour season.

Rastriya Parichaya Patra/National Identity Card Registration in Nepal

Nearby resorts in kathmandu, education consultancy in nepal for australia study, leave a reply cancel reply.

Log in to leave a comment

LATEST POST

Anubhav regmi-biography, age, father, height, school, mother, net worth, movies, deeya maskey-biography, age, birthday, husband, movie, tv show, height, sister, net worth, best hair salons in bhaktapur: a guide to hair salons in bhaktapur, nepal, for ladies and gents , top 10 best movies of nepal: a cinematic journey.

The best destination for your diverse searches on Nepal. Be it Technology, Traveling, History, Culture, or any other major queries, feel free to explore our blog section for exciting and latest information.

Contact us: [email protected]

© Copyright 2024 - Source Nepal

  • DMCA Policy
  • Advertisement
  • Skip to content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Full Time Explorer

Nepal Travel Blog

The Best Time to Visit Nepal for Travel

Best Time to Visit Nepal / December 9, 2018 by fulltimeexplorer / Leave a Comment

A question I get asked constantly is, “When is the best time to visit Nepal?” Honestly, the question seems simple, but it really matters what you’re looking for. Is the weather, seeing local culture, avoiding crowds, or getting a good deal the most important to you? Which part of Nepal will you be visiting, or is there a specific trek you’d like to do during your time? All of these things can be factored in to decide what time of year is best to visit.

Winter in Nepal

You might also like…, the best time to visit nepal by season, peak season in nepal (spring & fall).

Peak season is generally March-May & September-November

This is peak season because it’s the best time to go trekking or mountaineering. According to the Nepal Tourism Board , 70% of travelers visiting Nepal say that Trekking is their number one reason for visiting the country. Since most of Nepal’s tourism revolves around these two activities, people flock to the country during these months.

Monsoon Season in Nepal (Summer)

Monsoon season is generally from June – August

Most people don’t go trekking or visit Nepal in monsoon season because the roads and trails are not safe. Nepal is prone to landslides, mudslides and falling rocks making it difficult to get around the country. Having spent all four seasons in Nepal, I can honestly say that monsoon is my least favorite. It’s not all bad though, you can check out my post on the pros and cons of monsoon season for more info.

Winter is from December – February

Most people avoid Nepal in the winter because trekking routes are often closed. At high altitudes, snow is heavy this time of year and it’s dangerous to trek or climb. Avalanches are a major risk during the winter along with freezing temperature and white out conditions. On the other hand, low altitude trekking is beautiful as the views of the mountains tend to be very clear. I did the Kathmandu Valley Trek in January, and it was great.

Areas like Lumbini, Chitwan, and Bardia can be too hot in peak season, so going in the winter is nice. It’s also the optimal time to do a safari and see the rare Bengal tiger.

Although winter can be super cold in some areas, it’s still worth considering for a visit. Plus, very few people visit this time of year, so you’ll get a unique experience and lots of discounts.

The Best Time to Visit Nepal by Month

According to the Nepal Tourism Board, the most popular months to visit are October and March which see upwards of 100,000 tourists. The slowest and least popular months are June and July which receive half as many tourists as October and March.

In order to keep this post short and sweet, I’ve gone ahead and created a blog post for each month of the year. These posts contain information on weather, trekking conditions, things to do, safety, wildlife spotting, and festivals!

  • January in Nepal
  • February in Nepal
  • March in Nepal
  • April in Nepal
  • May in Nepal
  • June in Nepal
  • July in Nepal
  • August in Nepal
  • September in Nepal
  • October in Nepal
  • November in Nepal
  • December in Nepal

The Best Time To Trek in Nepal

It’s best to trek in Nepal between March and May or between September and November. 

In the winter (December-February), it’s very cold in the mountains. There’s a greater chance of freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall. This can cause problems that include avalanches as well as difficult to follow trekking trails.

In monsoon season (June-August), it rains for a few hours almost every day. While the temperature is warm, you’ll have a sky full of clouds. This means you might miss out on views of the Himalayas. It’s also a dangerous time to trek because of landslides. Landslides and rock fall are also common on roads. While you will probably be okay traveling by bus or car, you may experience major delays. My friends ended up on a 24-hour bus ride which was only supposed to take 8 hours because the road washed out.

The Best Time to Visit Nepal & Avoid Crowds

I like traveling during monsoon season because it’s easy to avoid crowds. I did the Annapurna Circuit just before monsoon started in the last two weeks of May and the first week of June. The trail was empty. It was so empty that there were nights when we were the only tourists in a village. It was fun because the 20 or so other people trekking at the same time as us formed a crew. We’d keep meeting up after a few days and everyone knew each other. During peak season you may share the trail with 1,000 other trekkers.

You can also avoid the crowds in winter. Most trekking trails are closed during these months but low altitude trekking is beautiful this time of year. It’s also a great time to explore the warmer areas of Nepal like the Terai. I prefer winter over monsoon simply because there is more to do. You can go on a wildlife safari in one of the national parks. You can do low altitude trekking around the Kathmandu Valley. The skies are clear with perfect views. The only down side is that it can be extremely cold and high altitude trekking is limited.

The Best Time to Visit Nepal & Experience the Culture

If culture is what you’re after, then it’s best to go in October or November which is festival season in Nepal. You can celebrate Dashain and Tihar during that period. Nepal uses a different calendar than we do, so it’s hard to say the exact date since it changes every year. It’s best to look up the dates for the specific year you are planning to go.

Dashain is a festival that lasts 15 days. In Nepal, there are many ethnicities and castes, therefore the festival represents different things and is celebrated different ways throughout the country. The main theme is to spend time with friends and family. Throughout the festival you can see celebrations at Durbar Square along with animal sacrifices.

Tihar is my personal favorite festival because it’s easier for tourists to get involved. It’s the “festival of light” which lasts about a week. Each day represents a different thing. You can feed rice to crows who are viewed as messengers or worship a dog who is seen as a guardian. You can even put flowers around the neck of a cow, the Hindu god and worship Laxmi , the goddess of wealth. It’s especially beautiful because of all the lights and dancing in the streets at night.

The Best Time of Year to Visit Nepal on a Budget

Traveling during off season is a great way to save some money. Most places have an off-season price which can be half off the peak season price. This is amazing for someone who wants to save some money especially on big ticket items like paragliding. On the other hand, you might save more money by trekking during peak season. While it might cost more for rooms, the trekking trails are so crowded that you might not need a guide. During off season, it’s a little foolish not to have a guide unless you have previous high altitude trekking experience. If you’re unsure about whether or not you need a guide, you can read this post on choosing a guide or going solo.

The Best Time to See Tigers in Nepal

While the best time of year to visit Kathmandu, Pokhara, or the mountains is during peak season, it may not be the best time of year to see all of Nepal. For instance, those who want to visit the national parks have a wider window. Nepal is famous for being one of the few locations you can see Bengal tigers in the wild. It’s advised to visit Bardia National Park or Chitwan National Park from September to December . During monsoon season, it’s nearly impossible to spot a wild tiger since they rarely come to the watering hole.

What is your priority when visiting Nepal? If you don’t see the answer to your question, leave it in the comments.

Michelle Della Giovanna

Writer at Full Time Explorer

I’m just your average New Yorker who quit her job in the fashion industry to explore the world. Come find out what it’s like to trade in five-inch heels for squat toilets.

  • Visit Twitter account (opens in a new tab)
  • Visit Facebook account (opens in a new tab)
  • Visit Instagram account (opens in a new tab)
  • Visit Pinterest account (opens in a new tab)

This website uses affiliate links. This means that I may receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you ) if  you purchase something through these links. I only link to products and companies that I love. Those companies, in return, reward me for connecting them to you .

Full Time Explorer LLC is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

Reader Interactions

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Best time to visit Nepal: A comprehensive guide by a local

When is the best time to visit Nepal? As someone who lives in this breath-taking country, I often get asked this question by eager travellers looking to explore the wonders of Nepal. Well, you’re in luck! In this article, we’ll dive into the best time to visit Nepal and provide you with all the essential information you need to plan your trip.

As someone who has been living in Kathmandu for three years now, I have experienced all kinds of weather, all seasons and sadly also all levels of pollution. So, let’s embark on this journey together and discover when you should pack your bags and head to this Himalayan paradise. Trust me, as a local, I know a thing or two about the perfect time to visit!

Table of Contents

Travelling to Nepal?

  • Read my guide on Kathmandu Airport and learn how to get from Kathmandu Airport to thamel.
  • If you are trekking you will need good gear such as trekking shoes and sleeping bags .
  • I would recommend booking an Everest flight ! They are absolutely amazing.
  • Book a cooking class. I can personally recommend the cooking class by Kalpana . She is so sweet!
  • Don’t forget to visit the UNESCO heritage sites when in Kathmandu!

Why is it important to understand the best time to visit Nepal?

Well, there are a few reasons. First and foremost, Nepal has a monsoon season that can make trekking dangerous and downright unpleasant. Secondly, there’s a pollution season which means life in the Kathmandu Valley isn’t much fun, and visibility is severely impacted. So, let’s break it down and find out when you can enjoy Nepal at its finest.

Monsoon Season: June to September

During the monsoon season, Nepal experiences heavy rainfall, making trekking trails slippery, muddy, and prone to landslides. While the rain brings life to the lush green landscapes, it also means that those epic mountain views are often hidden behind a veil of clouds. So, if you’re planning to conquer those Himalayan peaks or simply enjoy some scenic strolls, this might not be the best time to visit Nepal.

Pollution Season: December to February

autumn in Nepal

As winter sets in, the Kathmandu Valley experiences a significant increase in air pollution. The combination of vehicle emissions, dust from construction sites, and smoke from burning wood and waste creates a thick smog that blankets the city. This not only affects the quality of life for locals but also impacts visibility for travellers looking to enjoy the stunning vistas. So, if you’re hoping for crystal-clear views and easy breathing, you might want to avoid visiting during these months.

Keep in mind that even during March, April and May you can experience heavy pollution in the Kathmandu Valley. Due to global warming, Nepal has had a pretty bad run of forest fires. In the three years that I have lived in Nepal, there have been two years where Kathmandu was the most polluted place on earth in April due to these forest fires.

The Best Time to Visit Nepal: October to November and March to May

Now that we’ve covered when not to visit, let’s talk about the best time to visit Nepal! The months of October to November and March to May offer the most favourable conditions for travellers. During these periods, the weather in Nepal is generally clear and stable, providing excellent visibility for those jaw-dropping mountain panoramas.

In October and November, you’ll experience pleasant temperatures and minimal rainfall – perfect for trekking and exploring Nepal’s diverse landscapes. Plus, the post-monsoon season means that the countryside is lush and vibrant, making for some truly stunning photo opportunities.

From March to May, the temperatures begin to rise, and the rhododendron forests burst into a riot of colour. This is also an ideal time for wildlife enthusiasts, as many of Nepal’s national parks come alive with activity during these months.

Visiting Nepal in different seasons

So, when is the best time to visit Nepal? The answer ultimately depends on your preferences and what you want to experience during your trip. Each season offers its own unique charm and challenges, but as a local, I can confidently say that October to November and March to May are the most favourable times to explore this enchanting country. Whether you’re an avid trekker, a culture enthusiast, or a wildlife lover, visiting Nepal in different seasons will undoubtedly leave you with unforgettable memories and a deep appreciation for this Himalayan gem. So, pack your bags, and let’s embark on this adventure together!

Spring in Nepal (March-May): A Blooming Adventure

Spring in Nepal (March-May) is hands down the best time to visit Nepal for trekking . The weather is pleasant, the skies are clear, and the landscapes are bursting with vibrant colours. So, if you’re looking to embark on an unforgettable trekking adventure, look no further than springtime in Nepal. Let’s dive into the specifics of what makes this season so special.

Best trekking trails during spring:

Spring in Nepal offers a plethora of trekking options for both seasoned trekkers and beginners alike. Some of the best trekking trails during spring include:

  • Everest Base Camp Trek
  • Annapurna Circuit Trek
  • Langtang Valley Trek
  • Manaslu Circuit Trek
  • Upper Mustang Trek

Weather conditions and temperatures during spring in Nepal:

During spring in Nepal, the weather is generally stable, with daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) at lower altitudes. As you ascend higher, the temperatures can drop to below freezing at night, so it’s essential to pack warm layers for those chilly evenings.

Popular attractions and activities:

Aside from trekking, spring in Nepal offers a variety of attractions and activities for travellers to enjoy:

  • Witness the spectacular rhododendron blooms in the forests
  • Explore the ancient cities of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan
  • Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites , such as Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa
  • Experience the vibrant Holi Festival (Festival of Colours) in March
  • Go on a wildlife safari in Chitwan National Park or Bardia National Park

Spring in Nepal is undoubtedly the best time to visit Nepal for trekking and exploring the UNESCO sites in this incredible country. With its pleasant weather, clear skies, and an abundance of trekking trails, there’s no better time to lace up your hiking boots and embark on the adventure of a lifetime.

Summer in Nepal (June – August): Embracing the Monsoon Magic

is july good time to visit nepal

Summer in Nepal is a time when the monsoon rains take centre stage and transform the country into a lush, green paradise. While the monsoon season may not be the ideal time for trekking, it does offer its own unique charm and opportunities for exploration. So, let’s dive into what makes summer in Nepal worth considering for your next adventure.

Best places to visit in Nepal during summer:

Despite the monsoon rains, there are still plenty of amazing places to visit in Nepal during summer. Some of these include:

  • Mustang and Dolpo regions : These areas lie in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, making them ideal destinations for trekking during the monsoon season.
  • Pokhara : This picturesque lakeside city offers a more relaxed atmosphere and is perfect for enjoying leisurely boat rides on Phewa Lake.
  • Lumbini : The birthplace of Lord Buddha, Lumbini is a significant pilgrimage site and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling cities.
  • Chitwan National Park : The monsoon season is an excellent time for wildlife spotting, as many animals are more active during this time.

Best treks in Nepal during monsoon:

While many trekking trails may be off-limits due to the rains, there are still some fantastic treks to consider during the monsoon season:

  • Lower Dolpo Trek
  • Nar Phu Valley Trek

Advantages and challenges of visiting during monsoon season:

Visiting Nepal during the monsoon season comes with its own set of pros and cons. Here are some advantages and challenges to consider:

Advantages:

  • Fewer tourists, meaning less crowded trails and attractions
  • Lush, green landscapes
  • More affordable accommodation and travel options

Challenges:

  • Unpredictable weather conditions
  • Slippery and muddy trekking trails
  • Travel within Nepal by bus can take twice to three times as long due to mudslides
  • Limited visibility for mountain views

Monsoon time in Nepal:

The monsoon season in Nepal typically lasts from June to August (sometimes as late as September), with the heaviest rainfall occurring in July.

Weather conditions and temperatures:

During the monsoon season, expect hot and humid conditions with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F) in the Valley. Heavy rainfall is common, particularly in the afternoons and evenings .

While summer in Nepal may not be the most popular time to visit due to the monsoon rains, it still offers plenty of opportunities for exploration and adventure . With fewer tourists, lush landscapes, and unique trekking options , summer in Nepal is definitely worth considering for those who don’t mind embracing the monsoon magic. Just don’t forget to bring your raincoat!

Autumn in Nepal (September-November): A Himalayan Haven

is july good time to visit nepal

Autumn in Nepal (September-November) is hands down the best time to visit Nepal for trekking and exploring the majestic Nepal Himalayas . With clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and stunning landscapes, it’s no wonder that autumn is a favourite among travellers. So, let’s dive into the specifics of what makes this season so special.

Best trekking trails during autumn:

Autumn in Nepal offers a plethora of trekking options for both seasoned trekkers and beginners alike. Some of the best trekking trails during autumn include:

Weather conditions and temperatures during autumn in Nepal:

During autumn in Nepal, the weather is generally stable, with daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) at lower altitudes. As you ascend higher, the temperatures can drop to below freezing at night, so it’s essential to pack warm layers for those chilly evenings.

Aside from trekking, autumn in Nepal offers a variety of attractions and activities for travellers to enjoy:

  • Explore the ancient cities of Kathmandu , Bhaktapur , and Patan
  • Experience the vibrant Dashain and Tihar festivals, celebrated throughout the country
  • Enjoy paragliding , mountain biking , or white-water rafting in Pokhara

Autumn in Nepal is undoubtedly the best time to visit Nepal for trekking and exploring the incredible Nepal Himalayas . With its pleasant weather, clear skies, and an abundance of trekking trails, there’s no better time to lace up your hiking boots and embark on the adventure of a lifetime.

Winter in Nepal (December-February): A Chilly Adventure

Winter in Nepal may not be the most popular time to visit, but it certainly has its charms. With fewer tourists, you can enjoy a more peaceful and authentic experience. Plus, the crisp, clear skies (once you make your way out of the Kathmandu valley and into the mountains) offer some of the best mountain views you’ll ever witness. So, let’s explore what winter in Nepal has to offer.

Mustang Nepal in winter

The Mustang region, also known as the “Forbidden Kingdom,” is a hidden gem that’s perfect for winter exploration. Unlike other parts of Nepal, Mustang is located in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, meaning it receives significantly less precipitation and pollution. This makes it an ideal destination for trekking during the winter months when other trails may be snowbound or inaccessible.

Best places to visit in Nepal during winter

While some areas may be off-limits due to snow and cold temperatures, there are still plenty of amazing destinations to explore during winter in Nepal. Some of the best places to visit include:

  • Pokhara : A lakeside city with stunning mountain views and a plethora of adventure activities
  • Chitwan National Park : A wildlife haven where you can spot rhinos, elephants, and even Bengal tigers
  • Lumbini : The birthplace of Lord Buddha and a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Nagarkot : A hill station with some amazing hotels nearby offering panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest

Winter trekking trails

While some trails may be closed due to snow, there are still several fantastic winter trekking trails available for those looking for a chilly adventure. Some popular options include:

  • Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
  • Tamang Heritage Trail
  • Everest Panorama Trek

Winter in Nepal temperatures

During winter in Nepal, temperatures can vary greatly depending on your altitude. In lower regions like Kathmandu and Pokhara, daytime temperatures can range from 9°C to 12°C (48°F to 54°F), while night-time temperatures can drop to near freezing. In higher altitudes, temperatures can plummet well below freezing, so it’s essential to pack appropriate clothing and gear .

While winter in Nepal may not be the most popular time to visit due to temperatures and pollution in Kathmandu valley, it offers a unique and peaceful experience for those willing to brave the colder temperatures. With stunning mountain views once outside Kathmandu, fewer tourists, and a variety of trekking trails and destinations to explore, winter in Nepal is a season worth considering for your next adventure.

Visiting Nepal from India and Tibet

is july good time to visit nepal

If you’re planning a trip to Nepal from India or Tibet, you might be wondering when the best time to visit is. Well, worry not, my fellow adventurers! I’ve got you covered. In this section, we’ll explore the best time to visit Nepal from India and Tibet, so you can make the most of your journey.

Best time to visit Nepal from India

When it comes to visiting Nepal from India, the ideal time is during the months of October to November and March to May . These periods offer the most favourable weather conditions, making it perfect for exploring Nepal’s diverse landscapes and engaging in various outdoor activities.

Here’s a quick breakdown of what you can expect during these months:

  • October to November: Clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and minimal rainfall make this an excellent time for trekking and sightseeing. The post-monsoon season also means that the countryside is lush and vibrant – perfect for photography enthusiasts.
  • March to May: This period offers stable weather conditions and excellent visibility for those awe-inspiring mountain views. The temperatures are also pleasant, making it comfortable for trekking and other outdoor activities.

Best time to visit Nepal from Tibet

If you’re planning a trip to Nepal from Tibet, the best time to visit is also during the months of October to November and March to May . These months offer clear skies, stable weather conditions, and pleasant temperatures – ideal for trekking, sightseeing, and immersing yourself in Nepal’s rich culture.

The best time to visit Nepal from India and Tibet is during the months of October to November and March to May. These periods offer the most favourable weather conditions, allowing you to fully experience the beauty and charm of this Himalayan paradise.

Best time to visit Tibet from Nepal

So, you’ve decided to embark on an epic adventure to the mystical lands of Tibet and Nepal. But when is the best time to visit these enchanting destinations? Fear not, intrepid traveller! I’m here to help you navigate the ins and outs of planning your trip, ensuring you experience the very best that Tibet and Nepal have to offer.

When planning your journey from Nepal to Tibet, timing is everything. The ideal months to visit Tibet are from April to October, with two distinct periods offering unique experiences:

  • April to June: Springtime in Tibet is a sight to behold. With blooming flowers, lush greenery, and comfortable temperatures, this is an excellent time for sightseeing and exploring the region’s stunning landscapes. Plus, you’ll have the chance to witness the Saga Dawa Festival, a significant Buddhist event held in May or June.
  • September to October: As the monsoon season comes to an end, Tibet’s skies clear up, offering breath-taking views of the majestic Himalayas. This period is perfect for trekking and photography, as well as attending the lively Shoton Festival in September.

However, it’s worth noting that July and August can be quite rainy in Tibet, so it’s best to avoid these months if you’re not a fan of getting drenched.

Celebrating Nepalese Festivals

festivals in nepal holi

Nepalese festivals are a vibrant and colourful showcase of the rich culture and traditions of this beautiful country. If you’re lucky enough to visit Nepal during one of these celebrations, you’re in for a treat! So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of Nepalese festivals and discover when they’re usually celebrated.

• Dashain : This is the most significant and longest festival in Nepal, usually celebrated in September or October. It’s a time for family reunions, feasting, and blessings from elders.

• Tihar : Also known as the Festival of Lights, Tihar is often celebrated in October or November. The five-day festival honours various animals and the goddess of wealth, Laxmi. Look out for Kukur Tihar (the festival of dogs) and Laxmi Puja.

• Holi : The Festival of Colours is a fun-filled event celebrated in March. People throw coloured powders and water at each other to mark the victory of good over evil.

• Teej : This women-centric festival takes place in August or September. Women fast, pray for marital bliss, and dance in their finest red attire.

• Janai Purnima : Celebrated in August, this Hindu festival involves changing the sacred thread worn by Brahmin men and offering prayers to Lord Shiva.

• Buddha Jayanti : This significant Buddhist festival commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Lord Buddha. It’s celebrated in April or May.

• Shivaratri : Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this festival takes place in February or March. Devotees fast, pray, and visit Shiva temples throughout the night.

• Gai Jatra : The Cow Festival is held in August or September to honour deceased family members. Colourful processions featuring cows or cow effigies fill the streets. Look out for the dancing demons and the cute kids with cow masks!

• Indra Jatra : This eight-day festival in September honours the god of rain, Indra. It features chariot processions, masked dances, and the Kumari – Nepal’s living goddess. Head out to Indra Chowk on the first day!

• Bisket Jatra : Celebrated in April, this New Year festival in Bhaktapur involves chariot processions, tug-of-war contests, throwing around orange powder, and plenty of feasting.

• Maghe Sankranti : This January festival marks the start of warmer days and longer daylight hours. People take ritual baths, visit temples, and enjoy festive foods.

• Chhath Puja : Dedicated to the sun god, this November festival involves fasting, offering prayers at sunrise and sunset, and taking ritual baths in rivers or ponds.

• Lhosar : The Tibetan New Year is celebrated in February or March with colourful decorations, traditional dances, and family gatherings.

• Ghode Jatra : The Horse Racing Festival takes place in March or April, featuring horse races, acrobatics, and other exciting performances.

• Maha Shivaratri Jatra : This grand procession in February or March honours Lord Shiva with chariots, music, and dance performances.

Mani Rimdu : This Buddhist festival in October or November showcases colourful masked dances and rituals performed by monks.

  • Nag Panchami: Nag Panchami is a Hindu festival dedicated to the worship of snakes that is celebrated in July or August. During this festival, devotees offer milk and honey to live snakes and worship them as they believe that snakes are protectors of their family and livestock. Look out for the drawings being sold on the street and in markets for a few rupees. People normally hang these on their door!

Visiting Popular Nepalese Destinations

Embarking on a journey to the breath-taking country of Nepal? Lucky you! With its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and warm-hearted locals, Nepal is truly a traveller’s paradise. But when is the best time to visit certain popular destinations in Nepal? Fret not, dear wanderer, for I am here to guide you through the ins and outs of planning your trip to popular Nepalese destinations.

Best time to visit Kathmandu, Nepal

Kathmandu is the vibrant capital city of Nepal! When is the best time of year to visit Kathmandu Nepal, you ask? Well, the ideal months to explore this bustling city are from October to November and March to May . These periods offer:

  • Pleasant temperatures
  • Clear skies
  • Minimal rainfall

Perfect for sightseeing, shopping, and indulging in the city’s rich culture and history.

Best time to visit Muktinath Temple, Nepal

Muktinath Temple, a sacred pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists, is best visited during the months of May to June and September to November . During these times, you can expect:

  • Stable weather conditions
  • Clear visibility
  • Comfortable temperatures

Ideal for trekking and soaking in the spiritual atmosphere of this revered temple.

Best time to visit Mustang, Nepal

The enchanting region of Mustang is best explored during the months of May to September . This period offers:

  • Dry weather conditions
  • Warm temperatures

Perfect for trekking, exploring ancient monasteries, and immersing yourself in the unique culture of this remote area.

Best time to visit Annapurna Base Camp (ABC), Nepal

For those seeking adventure at Annapurna Base Camp, the best time to visit ABC Nepal is during the months of October to November and March to April . These months provide:

  • Clear mountain views

Ideal for trekking and capturing those awe-inspiring panoramas.

Best time to visit Pokhara in Nepal

The picturesque city of Pokhara is best visited during the months of October to November and March to May . During these times, you can expect:

  • Pleasant weather
  • Stunning views of the Annapurna range

Perfect for boating on Phewa Lake, paragliding, and exploring the city’s many attractions.

Best time to visit Everest Base Camp in Nepal

For those daring souls venturing to Everest Base Camp, the best time to visit Everest Base Camp Nepal is during the months of April to May and September to November . These periods offer:

  • Manageable temperatures

Ideal for trekking and experiencing the thrill of being at the foot of the world’s highest peak.

Best time to visit Mardi Himal in Nepal

Mardi Himal, a hidden gem in the Annapurna region, is best explored during the months of March to May and September to November . During these times, you can expect:

  • Lush landscapes

Perfect for trekking, photography, and enjoying the serene beauty of this off-the-beaten-path destination.

In conclusion, the best times to visit Nepal are:

  • October to November: Ideal for trekking, sightseeing, and photography, thanks to clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and minimal rainfall.
  • March to May: Perfect for enjoying stable weather conditions, excellent visibility, and comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities.

Now that you’re armed with the knowledge of the best times to visit Nepal , it’s time to embark on your unforgettable journey! Whether you’re trekking through the breath-taking Himalayas, exploring ancient temples, or immersing yourself in the rich culture and traditions, there’s no doubt that Nepal has something for everyone.

So, don’t hesitate – pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to discover the diverse beauty of Nepal throughout the year. Happy travels!

Best time to visit Nepal FAQ

What is the cheapest time of year to go to nepal.

The cheapest time to visit Nepal is during the off-season, from June to September, as hotels and airlines offer discounts due to the rainy season.

How many days in Nepal is enough?

You can experience the best of Nepal in 14-21 days, including time in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and trekking in the mountains.

What is the hottest month in Nepal?

The hottest month in Nepal is May, with an average temperature of 28°C in the lowlands and 16°C in the mountains.

What is the off season of Nepal?

The off season in Nepal is from June to September, during the monsoon season, when heavy rains and landslides make travel difficult.

Which season is best for Pokhara?

The best time to visit Pokhara is from September to November, when the skies are clear and the weather is dry, making it perfect for trekking and outdoor activities.

Which is the coolest month in Nepal?

The coolest month in Nepal is January, with an average temperature of 9°C in the lowlands and -4°C in the mountains.

Which month rains a lot in Nepal?

Nepal receives the most rainfall from June to August, during the monsoon season, with an average of 1,000-1,500 mm of rain.

Which is colder, Kathmandu or Pokhara?

Pokhara is slightly warmer than Kathmandu, with average temperatures ranging in kathmandu from 11-23°C, while Pokhara’s temperatures range from 16-27°C.

Can you see snow in Pokhara?

Snowfall is rare in Pokhara, but you can see snow-capped mountains in the distance, including the Annapurna range.

What is the coldest city in Nepal?

The coldest city in Nepal is Jumla, located in the western Himalayan region, with average temperatures around -3°C in January.

Which is the hottest city in Nepal?

The hottest city in Nepal is Biratnagar, located in the southern Terai region, with temperatures reaching up to 40°C in May and June.

Is there snowfall in Muktinath?

Yes, there is snowfall in Muktinath, particularly during the winter months from December to February.

Which month is best for Muktinath?

The best time to visit Muktinath is from September to November, when the skies are clear, and the weather is dry, making it easier to trek to the temple.

Which places in Nepal is best for snowfall?

The high-altitude regions of the Himalayas, including Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, and Langtang, receive heavy snowfall during the winter months.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

  • Nepal Travel Guide

Nepal in July

July is the least visited month of the year because it falls right in the middle of Nepal’s monsoon season. Even when it’s raining, there are still things to see and do. Visit to the Mustang region for fantastic trekking or see the countless cultural wonders of Kathmandu and Pokhara, taking full advantage of lower prices.

Nepal Weather in July

Nepal’s weather varies hugely between the Terai plains, the mid-hills of Kathmandu and Pokhara, and the Himalaya. By July, the monsoon has arrived, with rain falling on most days. Parts of the Terai (plains region) often flood during July.

Temperatures remain warm—in the high 27°C in Kathmandu and Pokhara—and while rain helps temper the air, it also brings humidity. High-altitude regions are somewhat cooler, however due to rains, many mountain regions become inaccessible to travelers.

Trekking Trails Conditions in July

Nepal in July is not highly recommended in most parts of the country because clouds obscure views, paths are wet and slippery, and road access to trailheads might be blocked by landslides. But, there is still an exception: the Mustang region. For more information, please see below.

Where to visit Nepal in July

Mustang is located north of Pokhara in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, therefore it does not experience the monsoon season like the rest of Nepal. The weather is usually sunny but not very hot, and the skies are clear because of the high altitude here. During the monsoon, landslides on the road to Mustang make overland travel tough, but Jomsom (Mustang) is accessible to Pokhara by air too.

If July is the only month you can visit Nepal, consider trekking in Lower and Upper Mustang. Other places within the Himalaya’s rain shadow—Upper Dolpo, the Nar Phu Valley can also be difficult to access in July, with often blocked roads and flights delayed or canceled.

What to do in Nepal in July

Even if outdoor activities are more difficult at this time, you can still enjoy activities in cities and towns. Many cultural attractions, like as temples, museums, pubs and restaurants, shopping, and charming accommodation options with good prices can be found in Kathmandu, Pokhara , and Bandipur.

The Best Destinations to Visit in July

Upper mustang trek in july.

Upper Mustang is located on an ancient trade route to Tibet, up the Kali Gandaki river, and has one of the best developed trails in the Annapurna region.

You’ll take a moderate trek through the Annapurna and Mustang region, with incredible views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, staying in comfortable guesthouses run by Thakali and Gurung families.

Upper Dolpo Trek in July

Upper Dolpo  is a remote region of Nepal situated in the mid-western region. The unique culture and traditions of this region have remained untouched by modern society due to the long isolation. As a result, the main attraction of this trek is the Tibetan origin people’s unique culture and lifestyle. The trekking route crosses three high passes in the upper Dolpo region.

The trek’s main highlights are spectacular views of Dhaulagiri and the breathtaking Shey Phoksundo lake with crystal clear water.

Nar Phu Valley Trek in July

The rain shadow villages of Nar Phu lie in the northeast section of the Annapurna region. As a result, this is an ideal trekking destination in Nepal for July.

The Nar Phu Valley Trek begins with the world-famous Annapurna circuit  route. The trek takes you to the Nar Phu Valley, which is situated in a remote corner of the Annapurna region.

You will trek “off the beaten path” and cross the adventurous pass of Kang la pass. This trek is known for its narrow canyons, incredible rock formations, ancient monasteries, and unique Himalayan culture.

Ghorepani Poonhill Trek in July

The Ghorepani Poonhill trek is one of the best short treks in the Annapurna region. It is also referred to as the short Annapurna trek.

Ghorepani is a small and beautiful village in Myagdi district, Dhaulagiri zone, located at the base of Mt. Annapurna. The most of of trekkers preferred this trek because it is not much challenging. The hike will take you to a maximum elevation of 2,855 meters.

After a half-hour drive from Pokhara, the trek begins at Modi Khola. The trekking trail winds through villages and farm terraces, with views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) peak.

The trek will take you through rhododendron and bamboo forests to Ghorepani at 2,860 meters. You will hike to Poonhill from Ghorepani, which is the best viewpoint for sunrise over the Annapurna ranges.

Final Thoughts

If you want to visit Nepal in July, then I can guarantee you that Nepal offers you enough and great options. You have to prepare yourself with suitable gears.

Have any questions? Please feel free to contact us .

You May Also Like

  • Nepal in April

Nepal in August

  • Nepal in December 

6000M – 7000m Best Boots for Peak Climbing in Nepal

Everest base camp trek in may, posts you might be interested in, everest base camp trek cost, how hard is everest base camp trek, personalize trip.

"I was born and raised in Nepal, nearby Everest region. I am proud to be a native Sherpa, and I have been a Mountain guide over a decade now. Following my passion, I decided to start helping travelers with their travel plans! I think life is a journey, a trip where you collect experiences when you share with other people and with nature."

Chhiring Sherpa

We are certified.

Automated page speed optimizations for fast site performance

Travel Guide

Best Time to Visit Nepal – A Seasonal Guide

By Suraj Katwal

Updated On Nov 4, 2022

This article will help you to find the best time to visit Nepal throughout the year. The best season to visit Nepal is Autumn Season (Late September – Late December).

Visitors want to travel when the weather is clear and favorable for magnificent scenery.

In this guide, you will learn about weather with different seasons as well as the average temperature in Kathmandu valley.

When is the Best Time to Visit Nepal ?

We’ll explore more, which is the best time to visit Nepal. Please refer to the following tips before planning your trip to visit Nepal.

Weather in Nepal

Nepal is a landlocked country. Topographically, Nepal is divided into three regions, the Himalayas, the Middle Hills, and the Terai. Depending upon the altitude, the weather varies.

The Himalayan Region lies in the Northern part of the country above 3,353 m in altitude. The Himalayan Region almost covers 15% of the whole area.

The World’s Highest Peak, Mount Everest lies in this region. The Himalayan Region is cold and famous for trekking. Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Base Camp is the favorite destination for high-altitude treks.

Hilly Region lies in the southern part, which almost covers 68% of the total area. Its altitude ranges above 600 meters. The Hilly region is less cold than the Himalayan Region.

The Terai region is usually hotter as the altitude varies from 300 meters to 600 meters. It covers around 17% of the total land.

Related Reading: What Time is it in Nepal?

1. Spring Season (March-May)

In this season, the temperature is softly warm at low altitudes while moderate at higher altitudes. This is the best time to Visit Nepal if you want to explore the beauty of this beautiful country.

It’s time for the flowers to blossom as you can see beautiful red rhododendrons – the national flower of Nepal above 2000 meters. You can explore the beauty of Mountain Views.

Rhododendron

2. Summer Season (June – August)

This is the season when the temperature rises higher 30-degree Celsius. This season is also called Monsoon Season. It is hot and wet everywhere as there is daily rainfall with thunderstorms. It is not the best season to visit Nepal.

Summer Season in Nepal: Best Time to Visit Nepal

3. Autumn Season (September – November)

Well, Autumn Season is the best tourist season in Nepal. The weather in this season is amicable for trekking, hiking, etc.

You can find many tourists booking their tickets to Nepal for the mesmerizing view of the mountains. This is also the season of the Biggest Festival Dashain in Nepal , celebrated by Hindus followed by another festival Tihar .

4. Winter Season (December – February)

As you know, In the winter season the weather is cold. At higher altitudes, there will be heavy snowfall . This is also the best season to visit Nepal if you want to explore lower elevations.

Related Reading: What to wear in Nepal in January?

Temperature in Kathmandu

Nepal has its own six seasons. The temperature varies according to the elevation. We are going to list the monthly average temperature of Kathmandu the (Capital City of Nepal).

Must Read: Getting Around Nepal

This best time to visit Nepal guide is going to help you to choose the best season to travel to Nepal. As Nepal has numerous beautiful destinations, any season is the best season to explore different regions.

If you have any questions/queries then please feel free to comment below. We will try to reply ASAP.

Best Time To Visit Nepal Climate Guide

Suraj Katwal

Suraj is a travel enthusiast who believes in finding solace in the heart of nature. He enjoys exploring new destinations, different culture, and encouraging people to travel.

Travel Resources

Hotel & Flight

Searching for the best hotels & flight tickets to visit Nepal? Check out the best deals.

Related Articles...

Yeti Airlines in Nepal

Buddha Airlines in Nepal

Kathmandu Airport Guide – Tribhuvan International Airport

Tipping in Nepal: How Much to Tip and When?

Can US Citizens Drive in Nepal?

Dhap Dam – Location, Distance, Hiking Route

Do US citizens need visas for Nepal?

How much dollar can I carry to Nepal?

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

About stunning nepal.

Stunning Nepal is a travel blog that intends to provide travel tips, references & guides, things to do & also your guide for hiking & trekking in Nepal.

Things To Do

Trekking in Nepal

Food and Festivals

Privacy Policy

Get in Touch

Stunning Nepal

Address: Dhanawantari Marg, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal

+977-9808211139

© 2024 Stunning Nepal. All Rights Reserved

  • Deutschland

Best Time To Visit Nepal

Nepal Mountains Himalaya Trekking Annapurna Sanctuary, Asia

Nepal through the seasons

The best time to visit Nepal is during the months of October and November. The monsoon is over, which means magnificent, green, lush vegetation as well as clean air – the perfect time to explore the country in all its beauty, especially given the mild temperatures. This is also the time the views of the peaks of the Himalayas are nearly picture perfect.

May is considered low season and we recommend not visiting the country from June to mid September.

Best Time To Visit

We recommend.

  • The mountain views are the best in winter so you could opt for a short trek at low altitudes
  • Visit Chitwan National Park and try and spot the big five – the one-horned rhino, the Royal Bengal tiger, the Asian elephant, leopard and the Himalayan Sloth bear
  • Witness the colorful Maha Shivratri celebrations (A Hindu festival worshipping Lord Shiva) at the Pashupatinath Temple
  • Head out to one of the popular trekking trails in the Everest or Annapurna. But book early as these are usually in high demand!
  • Get the adrenalin flowing with a white water rafting trip
  • Fly and get up close and personal with the Everest, as you soak in stunning aerial views of the Tibetan Plateau’s lakes and glaciers
  • Enjoy the festivities around the Nepali New Year
  • Get the adrenalin flowing with a short kayaking trip given the weather will be warm
  • Spend time at the several restaurants across Kathmandu sampling Nepalese cuisine, or participate in a cooking class at a local’s home
  • As the Mustang region falls in the rain shadow area of the Himalayas, it is relatively dry during this time, which means you can trek in the upper and lower Mustang region
  • Nepal’s rice fields will be a lush green at this time, so why not capture stunning photographs of the panoramic landscape?
  • Enjoy the various trekking trails around Pokhara, with its crystal clear lakes, turbulent rivers, deep gorges, and picturesque valleys
  • Be part of the Dashain, the most auspicious religious celebration in the country, which usually begins end September and head into October
  • Visit the small town of Nagarkot to savor panoramic views of the Himalayas and get a taste of village life
  • Stroll through Kathmandu’s backstreets, catching glimpses of art and daily lives
  • Kathmandu Valley is a World Heritage Site so make sure you visit the Durbar Squares, Patan and Bhaktapur, the Buddhist stupas and the Hindu temples
  • Attempt one of the most popular long treks (21 days), the Annapurna trek, which takes you along the edge of the Tibetan Plateau and through the Thorung La Pass (5,400 meters)
  • To catch a glimpse of Nepali village life, stop off at the quaint Newari village of Bandipur, en route to Pokhara or the high-altitude Sherpa village of Namche Bazaar in the Everest region
  • Tihar or the festival of lights is usually celebrated in Nepal in November and is the country’s second-biggest religious festival
  • Visit the town of Dhulikhel with its panoramic views of the Himalayan range, enchanting temples, and exquisite local handicrafts
  • Indulge in a spot of mountain biking

Best Time to Visit Nepal by Season

The weather patterns are largely predictable. There are four seasons in Nepal:

  • Spring  from March to May
  • Summer  from June to August
  • Autumn  from September to November
  • Winter  from December to February. The monsoon season lasts from late June to mid-September, while it is relatively dry the rest of the year.

Fishermen at Chitwan National Park, Nepal

What to Pack for Nepal

There are largely no clothing restrictions in Nepal and you can wear what is most comfortable and weather appropriate. Choosing to be formal or casual is entirely up to you. Traveling in mountainous regions means experiencing a wide range of temperatures across 24 hours. During the day it can be quite warm, whereas at night temperatures can drop dramatically. Crossing over a pass requires an extra layer of clothing just for an hour or two. Lightweight and tropical clothes with umbrellas are advised from June to August. Between October and March, lightweight clothes with a coat for the evenings and warm clothing for the mountainous areas are recommended.

Asia Tours Yaks carrying weight in Nepal Asia

Popular Trips to Nepal

Best Time to Visit Nepal

Nepal & Bhutan: Highlights

Discover the Himalayan kingdoms of Bhutan and Nepal on this 16-day tour. Start your journey in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, and take in its magnificent UNESCO World Heritage sites. Go on an exciting safari at the Royal Chitwan National Park and bask in panoramic mountain views in the scenic town of Dhulikhel. Continue your…

Enchanting Travels Nepal Tours Women in sari standing on the boat,Phewa lake,Pokhara city ]

Undiscovered Nepal: Lower Mustang, Kathmandu and Pokhara

Take an unforgettable journey into Nepal’s unexplored destinations where few tread! This private Nepal tour introduces you to the Lower Mustang region where you will explore hidden gems such as Kagbeni, part of the Annapurna Circuit Trek and the windiest city in Nepal! At Jomson, you have the chance the discover one of the world’s…

Lake with boats in Pokhara, nepal vacation

Classic Nepal for Beginners

From its lofty mountains to its warm people, Nepal is yours to discover! Home to enchanting UNESCO World Heritage sites, give in to Kathmandu’s mesmeric charm before you tackle lofty heights at Pokhara. In Chitwan, befriend a herd of elephants or laze by the Rapti, and soak in the undiscovered, tranquil charm of Dhulikhel. Your…

Best Places To Visit

Best Time to Visit Nepal

Kathmandu is a Himalayan valley kingdom, cradled within the foothills of mighty peaks. The city is home to seven UNESCO World Heritage sites and several other attractions, such a carved rose-brick pilgrimage sites, artistic workshops, and cafes and courtyards brimming with friendly local families.

Best Time to Visit Nepal

Pokhara has it all – a picturesque valley nestled amid majestic mountains, glorious adventure trails and delicious cuisine! Originally envisioned as a center of commerce, the city’s roots can be traced back to the 17th century, when it featured on the trade route between India and China.

Best Time to Visit Nepal

Chitwan: A wholly different experience! Chitwan is home to one of Asia’s finest National parks and one of the most traditional and conservative indigenous people of Nepal – the Chepangs.

Best Time to Visit Nepal

Dhulikhel: Undiscovered gem Dhulikhel is a scenic and ancient town located east of Kathmandu with panoramic views of the Himalayan range, enchanting temples, exquisite local handicrafts, and friendly and intriguing culture.

Best Time to Visit Nepal

The second highest point on the valley rim at an elevation of 7,200 feet, Nagarkot boasts panoramic views of the Himalayas and is ‘so near yet so far’ from the maddening crowd of a bustling city.

Best Time to Visit Nepal

Patan is one of three royal cities in the Kathmandu Valley, located on the southern side of the Bagmati River and about half a mile south of Kathmandu.

Things To Do

From towering mountain peaks to incredible hiking opportunities and cultural delights – Nepal holidays are a joy! Our destination experts share their personal favorite highlights.

Travel Guide

Discover the most essential details before you travel to Nepal, from visa formalities to combating altitude sickness in the Himalayas, and everyday traditions, in our Nepal travel guide.

From the Blog

Annapurna Himalayas near Pokhara in Nepal Holiday

Climb every mountain: Why you need to plan a Nepal holiday

On your Nepal holiday, find spiritual bliss in the ancient temples of Kathmandu, many of them UNESCO World Heritage Sites, bathe elephants at Chitwan National Park, or challenge yourself with treks in the Himalayas.

What Our Guests Say

Best Time to Visit Nepal

The Enchanting Difference

Authentic & unique.

Our award-winning, licensed local guides provide incredible insights and exclusive experiences for you.

Personalized & Private

Our experts completely customize your private tour to match your interests and preferences.

High-Quality Experiences

All our accommodations and services are personally tested by our team.

Fully Supported Travel

You’ll have a personal and dedicated trip coordinator, backed by 24/7 support in case of emergencies while you’re traveling.

Financial Protection & Flexibility

Your booking is flexible and completely secure with us.

Safe & Secure

Your safety and well-being are our top priorities.

Do you have a vacation in mind? Personalize your itinerary with our Trip Builder.

Asiahighlights logo

  • 2 Weeks for Couple
  • 2 Weeks for Family
  • Thailand Lantern Festival
  • Indonesia(Bali)
  • South Korea
  • China (HK, Taiwan)
  • Itinerary Ideas
  • Asia Highlights Travel Reviews
  • Thailand Travel Reviews
  • Vietnam Travel Reviews
  • Cambodia Travel Reviews
  • Japan Travel Reviews
  • Myanmar Travel Reviews
  • China Travel Reviews

How to Plan a Trip to Nepal

  • How to Plan a Trip to Nepal
  • Nepal Visas and Entry Policy
  • Best Time to Visit Nepal

Best Places to Visit in Nepal

  • How Long to Stay in Nepal
  • How to Get Around Nepal
  • Travel Cost in Nepal

Traveling to Nepal is an adventure that never fails to showcase the natural and cultural beauty of this world. Travelers are attracted by the country's immense Himalayan mountain views, jungles full of wildlife, beautiful golden temples, charming hill villages, ancient cities, and friendly people.

Nepal is a landlocked country in the Himalayas between China and India. The most popular things to do in Nepal include trekking, mountaineering, mountain appreciation/photography, and visiting temples. Nepal has a very vibrant culture that is a mixture of Buddhist and Hindu values, which can be seen in the abundance of temples and in the everyday life of the local people.

Nepal Travel Visas and Travel Restrictions

Entry policy: From March 14, 2022, Nepal has eased its entry requirements. All international visitors can go to Nepal whether vaccinated or not.

Visa policy: Most foreigners need a tourist visa to enter Nepal. However, Nepal makes getting a tourist visa quite simple by offering a visa on arrival option for Kathmandu's airport as well as all land crossings. The visa on arrival process is very quick and simple. It requires travelers to fill out a short form, which can also be filled out online 15 days before arrival to make the process even faster.

Best Times to Visit Nepal

Nepal's climate is divided into two seasons: the rainy season (May to August) and the dry season (September to April).

The best time to visit Nepal is during the "autumn" post-monsoon months (September to November) as the skies are generally clear and the views are spectacular, the visibility in the mountains is at its best and trekking conditions are great around Everest and Annapurna. Hotel prices and travel costs during this time are higher than average, and the tourist sites are a bit more crowded than usual. With Asia Highlights , you enjoy 100% refund of any payments made to China Highlights prior to 3 weeks before departure ( detail⇒ ).

Another good time to visit Nepal is in the "spring" pre-monsoon months (February to April) when the weather at high elevation is cool and good for trekking. Conditions are often less clear this time of year due to crop burning in the Kathmandu Valley.

"Summer" in Nepal is the monsoon season (April to September). The monsoon rains make for super blooms of beautiful Himalayan flowers, but also cause landslides and dangerous/unpleasant travel conditions (mud, leeches) throughout the country. Low prices match inconvenient travel opportunities.

Temperatures of the "winter" mid-dry-season (December to February) in Nepal often get below freezing in high elevation areas of the country, which can make for difficult trekking conditions.

Conversely, lowland areas such as Kathmandu Valley can be as warm as 20°C (68°F) in the winter months.

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

Regarded as a trekkers' paradise, the two most popular places to go in Nepal are Mount Everest and Kathmandu, there is much more of this beautiful country to explore on foot outside these two destinations.

1. Kathmandu — Capital, Temples and Shrines

Kathmandu is the capital city of Nepal and the place where most travelers begin their journey. This is a city with chaotic narrow streets that are packed full of gorgeous temples and shrines. Explore the timeless cultural and artistic heritage to learn more about Kathmandu. Include the maze of shrines in the city center, and then wander around the shopping street (Thamel), which is full of handicrafts and great food.

From Thamel Street, you can walk to Durbar Square (an ancient palace), where the city's king was crowned. Spend a half day to observe the grand architecture there, and then have a cup of coffee and rest in the nearby restaurants or shops.

2. Pokhara — Natural Beauty and Adventure

Pokhara is a lakeside city near the Annapurna region. This city has long been famous for its spectacular scenery and abundance of adventure activities. There you can relax while taking in the views of mountains over bobbing boats on Fewa Lake, or participate in mountain biking, paragliding, and trekking.

Pohkara is the starting point for many famous treks, including the challenging Annapurna Base Camp Trek. The two-day Poon Hill Trek offers visitors incredible views of Annapurna in the distance, and the Annapurna Circuit Trek is a less demanding hike that can be taken at your own pace.

Pokhara is also home to the famous World Peace Pagoda, where you can have a panoramic view of the Annapurna range, Pokhara city, and Fewa Lake.

3. Patan — Ancient City, UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Patan, also known as Lalitpur — 'The City of Beauty', has a history dating back to the year 250 BC. Although Patan is only around 5 kilometers (3 miles) from Kathmandu, the city was a fiercely independent kingdom for most of its history and has managed to retain its unique culture.

The architecture of this entire city is based on the principles of the Buddhist Wheel of Righteousness and Patan has long been a melting pot of Hindu and Buddhist beliefs.

While you are in this ancient city make sure to explore the gorgeous temples, royal palaces, and statues of Durbar Square, and check out Patan Museum. This city is definitely worth a visit.

4. Nagarkot — Panoramic Himalayan Views

Nagarkot is located close to Bhaktapur and is well-known for its stunning views of the surrounding Himalayas. There are eight ranges that can be seen from this small mountainous town: Everest, Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Lantang, Jugal, Rolwaling, and Numbur. You can also have a panoramic view of the Kathmandu Valley from this small town.

The town itself is surrounded by dense pine forests and is a quiet and peaceful place full of boutique and luxury hotels with mountain views.

Try to catch the dreamy views of sunrise and sunset on a clear day, the town also offers some short treks and mountain biking trails.

5. Chitwan National Park — Nature, Wildlife

If you want to enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife of Nepal, then Chitwan National Park should be on your list. As one of the most popular national parks in Asia, Chitwan National Park is the best place to observe Asia's rare and endangered species, such as the Bengal tiger and one-horned rhinoceros.

Besides Bengal tigers and rhinoceroses, there are elephants, leopards, Indian bison, and sloth bears to discover in the park. If you want to spend more than a day in the park, you can live in luxury lodging at the edge of the park, or in the affordable accommodation in a nearby village.

How Long to Stay in Nepal — Sample Itineraries

Nepal is a popular destination for trekking lovers. Your traveling days requirement will depend on your interests and where you want to go. Most of our clients spend 8–9 days to cover the essential highlights of Nepal.

See our 9-day Classic Nepal tour sample itinerary: Kathmandu (3 days), Pokhara (2 days), Chitwan (2 days), Nagarkot (2 days).

Top South Asia Tour Itineraries Including Nepal

Most of our clients prefer to include Nepal in a 2-to-3-week South Asia trip. The most popular tour itineraries usually include India, Nepal, and Bhutan. Get some inspiration to explore Asia from our 14-Day India, Nepal, and Bhutan Tour .

See more on our How to Plan an India and Nepal Trip 2024

The above sample itineraries are just for your information. You are welcomed to contact your own experienced 1:1 tour consultant for a tailor-made itinerary .

How to Get To and Around Nepal

Getting to nepal.

The best way to get to Nepal is by flight. There are direct flights available to Kathmandu from New York, Dallas, San Francisco, and Los Angeles in the US and from London, Paris, Munich, Frankfurt, and Istanbul in Europe. To make the trip to Nepal more affordable, travelers can head to India first and then fly to Kathmandu from New Delhi.

Getting Around in Nepal

The main transport from one city to another in Nepal includes planes, buses, and private vehicle. Trains are not available in Nepal.

Because of Nepal's mountainous terrain and poor infrastructure, traveling by bus around Nepal is often draining, and the bus may stop to pick up passengers everywhere too.

The best way to travel from one Nepali city to another is often by private car or jeep, which is more comfortable and faster than traveling by bus. It allows passengers the option of being picked up directly from their hotel and dropped off directly at their next hotel without the hassle of booking taxis and buying bus tickets.

By plane: Flying is another good option for traveling across Nepal. Most internal flights start or end in Kathmandu. The cities of Pokhara, Bharatpur, and Siddharthanagar all have airports. One problem with traveling by plane in Nepal is that delays and flight cancellations are very common due to adverse weather conditions like heavy rain, thick fog, strong winds, etc. (Airports in Nepal don't have the latest technology and so planes rely on instrumental landing systems.)

Connecting with Other South Asian Countries

There are flights from Kathmandu to other main cities in South Asian countries, including India, Bhutan, and Thailand. Most of our clients visit India before their trip to Nepal. They can fly to Kathmandu from Delhi, Varanasi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. Delhi offers the most flight options at the best prices.

From India, it is also possible to cross into Nepal overland. This journey requires taking a bus or train to the India-Nepal border. Trains from Delhi to the Sonauli border crossing often take around 14 hours.

Travel Costs for Nepal

For travelers from Europe and America, Nepal is the most affordable destination in South Asia. General speaking, if you are looking for a comfortable trip (mid-range hotels) in the top destinations in Nepal, it will cost between 10,000 and 12,500 Nepal rupees (US$80–100) per day per person.

The following are some cost estimates for different travel styles:

  • For backpackers, the budget needed is around 30–50 USD/day per person (hostels, street food, tuk-tuks, rickshaws).
  • For a medium budget, Nepal costs around 80–100 USD per day per person (3/4-star hotels, sit-down restaurants, taxies).
  • For a higher standard and a more refined experience, US$100–150 per day per person is needed (4/5-star hotels, nice meals, private guide, and transfers).

Traveling Nepal with Asia Highlights

Want to experience the rich culture and stunning peaks of Nepal? We at Asia Highlights can help you plan your dream trip, tailor-made to suit your travel wants and goals. Leave the planning and stress to us; just relax and enjoy your journey.

Why Travel with Asia Highlights (98.8% positive customer reviews among 10,000+)

  • Unique experiences tailored to your interests: Enjoy a premium trip that goes beyond the typical tourist attractions.
  • Hassle-free travel and peace of mind: Every aspect of your trip will be carefully planned and organized by your 1:1 travel consultant.
  • Experienced and knowledgeable guides: Your guides will be local and love to work for travelers' smiles.

11-Day India and Nepal Tour

  • 9-Day Classic Nepal Tour
  • 9-Day India Tiger Safari and Golden Triangle Tour
  • 11-Day India and Nepal Tour
  • 12-Day India, Vietnam, and Cambodia Tour
  • 14-Day Nepal and Bhutan Tour
  • 14-Day India, Nepal, and Bhutan Tour
  • 14-Day Rajasthan Tour Package for Westerners
  • 14-Day Romantic Honeymoon Trip in India
  • 2-Week Luxury India Tour
  • 20-Day China (including Tibet), Nepal, and India Tour
  • 21-Day India, Nepal and Bhutan Tour
  • 3-Week Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan Tour
  • Best Times to Visit Nepal —Guide to Nepal Weather and Travel Experience
  • Nepal Trekking Guide — Find the Right Trek for You
  • India Itineraries 2024: from 5 Days to 1 Month
  • 2 Weeks in India 2024/2025: Top 4 Itineraries
  • How to Plan a Trip to India 2024/2025: 7 Easy Steps for You
  • Best (and Worst) Times to Visit India 2024, Rainy Season?
  • How Much Does a Trip to India Cost?
  • How to Plan an India and Nepal Trip 2024/2025
  • Plan an Awesome Trip to India, Bhutan and Nepal (6 Tips)
  • Nepal Weather in January
  • Nepal Weather in February 2024
  • Nepal Weather in March
  • Nepal Weather in April
  • Nepal Weather in May
  • Nepal Weather in June
  • Nepal Weather in July

is july good time to visit nepal

We made a private tour through South China in January 2024. Altogether Chengdu was the highlight. We had an incredible day at Emeishan. In Chengdu our guidewas Helen. She was the diamond of all. Speaking fluently English, full of interesting stories, laughing and talking all the time. We missed her the rest of our tour. We highly recommend to go to Chengdu for 3 days when visiting China, especially with Helen.

is july good time to visit nepal

Other highlights are too many to mention but here are a few Ken taking us to the Terracotta Warriors and our food tour in Xian was amazing,

Our day volunteering at the Panda Base was truly unforgettable. Helen, our guide, provided us with invaluable insights about Chengdu and the pandas, enriching our tour with her knowledge and expertise. We're grateful to Helen for accompanying us throughout the day and showcasing the highlights of China.

We had a booking with China Highlights through Silvia Ye who guarenteed a perfect organisation. In Chengdu our guide was Helen. She was the diamond of all. Speaking fluently English, full of interesting stories, laughing and talking all the time. We missed her the rest of our tour. We highly recommend to go to Chengdu for 3 days when visiting China, especially with Helen.

We traveled to China during the Chinese new year and we had Kris as our guide and he is simply knowledgeable,helpful and great.

We visited Guilin for 2 days and stayed in the Guilin Waterfall hotel. Guilin was absolutely beautiful! Our guide, William, was very knowledgeable and kind! He taught us so much about Guilin and the surrounding area! We really enjoyed trying the specialty rice noodles of Guilin. Our highlight was the Li river cruise.

Amazing tour and the guide Mr. 贺霄 was very accommodating with our needs and request as we have bought our 2 years old with us. Well explained for all the place we visited. Any additional cost were informed well ahead and didn't felt any pressure if we opt not to go for additional detour. The trip was relaxing/ laid back/no rushing with zero shopping!

We had an amazing to China. Our tour guide Martin in Shanghai was super knowledgeable, caring and very flexible with our itinerary. When my wife got sick in the Shanghai, he was able to arrange an English-speaking doctor on the spot and took us to the clinic. On top of the that, Martin and the driver stayed with us at the clinic for the whole duration and drove us back to the hotel afterwards. His genuine concern for our welfare and willingness to go the extra mile did not go unnoticed, and we were deeply touched by his kindness and compassion.

Guilin, but mostly Yangshuo was at the tail end of our China adventure so there was a lot to live up to. Having a guide like Gary Wei meant that our trip ended on a high! We arrived in Guilin very late from an 11 hour train journey. Gary met us with gifts of fruit, sweet bread and cakes which was so unexpected and thoughtful.Gary's knowledge of the area was exceptional and his attention to us the same. He really took our children under his wing - even tuning in to annoying sibling rivalry and managing to keep the peace very well! Gary was our personal photographer at times and even our Taiji instructor, making a beautiful video of us all doing Taiji in a scenic setting :)The cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo is definitely worth taking and we enjoyed our few nights in the area, riding bikes along the river, doing a cooking class and enjoying the scenery

More reviews

Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

At Asia Highlights, we create your kind of journey — your dates, your destinations, at your pace. You can have any trip tailor made for your travel.

More Travel Ideas and Inspiration

TrustPilot rating

Sign up to Our Newsletter

Be the first to receive exciting updates, exclusive promotions, and valuable travel tips from our team of experts.

The Asia Highlights Experience

Where can we take you today.

  • Middle East
  • African safari
  • Indonesia (Bali)
  • South Africa
  • Central Asia

China Tours

  • Inner Mongolia
  • Yangtze River
  • Zhangjiajie
  • Tours from Hong Kong
  • Tours from Shanghai
  • Travel Agents
  • Our Differences

SunPope

Best Time to Visit Nepal

is july good time to visit nepal

Climate Overview

Thermometer Symbol

Geographical location

Climate in nepal.

is july good time to visit nepal

Beach Vacation in February

Water Temperature

Best Time to Visit Nepal: Overview

When to travel to nepal, climate chart nepal.

Climate Chart Kathmandu

Source of Data: German Weather Service (Offenbach) and Wikipedia

Climate Table Nepal

Temperatures, precipitation, sunshine in kathmandu (nepal), highlights and attractions, popular activities, more attractions, current weather and forecast.

few clouds

Best Time to Travel for the Regions

Kathmandu: February , March , April , October , and November

Hottest Month

Activities and Attractions

Distances to nepal, where’s nepal, continent: asia, nepal: experiences of our visitors.

Avatar Preview

Wonderful warm weather in Kathmandu and Pokhara. At altitudes of up to 3500 metres very pleasant during the day, but fleece jacket is also necessary, but still warm in the sun. Rain is absolutely no problem. For me as a Nepal”regular” the perfect travel time!

Weather Rating: 5 stars – Excellent

Avatar Preview

During the two-week trekking tour in the Everest region, the sun shone almost every day. During the day the temperature was mostly over 0°C, even over 5000m altitude it was still quite warm in the sun. At night it was very cold at this altitude of course despite good weather with approx. 15°C below zero.

The weather in kathmandu in the 3rd week was good. Fresh in the morning (light sweater), warm during the day, a little cold again after sunset (fleece jacket), ideal time for sightseeing

Kathmandu sunny 26°, Annapurnaregieon super view, up to 3500m still pleasantly warm, in higher altitudes at night down to -15°, pleasant in the sun during the day.

Avatar Preview

Sunny and warm, partly slightly cloudy. The nights over 3000 meters cool, partly light frost.

Weather Rating: 4 stars – Good

Share your Experience and Win

Info Icon

Impressive: 30 Days in Nepal

Destinations in the vicinity ….

Preview: Best Time to Travel Ko Tao

  • Imprint / Privacy
  • Image Sources

Tusk Travel Blog

Best Time to Visit Kathmandu: A Detailed Season & Month Guide

Satnam Singh

Nestled in the heart of Nepal , Kathmandu stands as a vibrant testament to the confluence of ancient traditions and modern aspirations. A harmonious blend of history, spirituality, culture, and nature crafts the city’s unique essence. As the calendar pages turn, each season cloaks Kathmandu in a distinct aura, offering travelers an array of unparalleled experiences.

From the brisk embrace of winter to the warm touch of summer, the choice of when to immerse oneself in Kathmandu’s wonders is truly personal. Join us as we journey through the city’s rhythmic seasonal dance and explore the myriad shades of each month.

In This Article:

Spring (March-May): An Overture of Colors and Climates

Spring in Kathmandu, spanning March to May, unfolds as a vibrant symphony of blossoming flora and temperate weather. As winter’s grip relaxes, the city bursts into a riot of colors, with clear skies framing the majestic Himalayan backdrop. It’s a period of rejuvenation, inviting exploration and admiration.

March in Kathmandu:

  • Weather Vignette: Winter’s chill bows out, making way for tepid days and crisp evenings.
  • Sights & Sounds: Witness the first blooms, especially the enchanting rhododendrons.
  • Celebrations : Holi, the carnival of colors, paints the town.
  • Reasons to Visit: The gentle climate makes it prime for valley trekking.
  • Traveler’s Tip: Keep an umbrella handy for unexpected sprinkles.

April in Kathmandu:

  • Weather Vignette: Temperatures start to nudge upwards, and clear skies dominate.
  • Sights & Sounds: Snow-capped mountains peer clearly at the horizon.
  • Celebrations: Revel in the Bisket Jatra and Seto Machhendranath festivals.
  • Reasons to Visit: Best month for photography with azure skies as a backdrop.
  • Traveler’s Tip: Start your day early to maximize daylight explorations.

May in Kathmandu:

  • Weather Vignette: Warm days with occasional cool breezes.
  • Sights & Sounds: Kathmandu’s alleys bustle with life as summer nears.
  • Reasons to Visit: Extended daylight hours for temple hopping.
  • Traveler’s Tip: Wear light, breathable clothing.
  • 9 Nights 10 Days Nepal Trip
  • Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek 9 Days
  • 6 Days Nepal Tour Package
  • Nepal 5 Days Trip Itinerary
  • Kathmandu Daman Dhulikhel Tour
  • 10 Days Nepal Adventure Travel
  • 6 Days Kathmandu & Pokhara Trip
  • Click Nepal More Packages

Summer (June – August): Echos of Rain & Resonance

Summer in Kathmandu, from June to August, sings a melody of warm days punctuated by rhythmic monsoon showers. The city, bathed in freshness, resonates with the echoes of raindrops and glistening streets, creating a serene yet spirited ambiance perfect for introspective journeys and cultural immersions.

June in Kathmandu:

  • Weather Vignette: Warm days heralding the whispers of upcoming rains.
  • Sights & Sounds: Greenery flourishes, lending a fresh look to the city.
  • Reasons to Visit: Quieter tourist spots, and unique rain-soaked experiences.
  • Traveler’s Tip: Waterproof your belongings.

July in Kathmandu:

  • Weather Vignette: Rains dance in full gusto, painting the town wet.
  • Sights & Sounds: Listen to the rhythm of raindrops on ancient temple roofs.
  • Reasons to Visit: Experience monsoon meditations and indoor retreats.
  • Traveler’s Tip: Good footwear is a must.

August in Kathmandu:

  • Weather Vignette: Receding rains but the wet symphony continues.
  • Celebrations: Janai Purnima knots the city in cultural fervor.
  • Reasons to Visit: Blend of warmth and wet, fresh post-rain atmosphere.
  • Traveler’s Tip: Local tea, ‘chiya’, is a must-try.

Autumn (September – November): A Tapestry of Gold & Festive Tales

Autumn in Kathmandu, between September and November, weaves a golden tapestry of crisp air and amber foliage. The city, draped in festive fervor, celebrates its rich heritage against a backdrop of clear Himalayan vistas. It’s a season of reflection, tradition, and mesmerizing beauty.

September in Kathmandu:

  • Weather Vignette: Mild days, chilly nights, and nature’s palette on display.
  • Sights & Sounds: Fall foliage paints the landscape in hues of gold and amber.
  • Reasons to Visit: Ideal trekking conditions and post-monsoon clarity.
  • Traveler’s Tip: Layer up for varying temperatures.

October in Kathmandu:

  • Weather Vignette: Cool, refreshing breezes.
  • Celebrations: Dashain vibes electrify the streets.
  • Reasons to Visit: Cultural immersion at its peak.
  • Traveler’s Tip: Book accommodations in advance.

November in Kathmandu:

  • Weather Vignette: Wintry whispers begin, with a gentle chill in the air.
  • Celebrations: The city illuminates with Tihar celebrations.
  • Reasons to Visit: Less crowd but similar autumn charm.
  • Traveler’s Tip: Warm shawls or jackets are a must for evenings.

Winter (December – February): The Timeless Tranquility

Winter in Kathmandu, spanning December to February, wraps the city in a serene blanket of chill and quietude. As snow graces the distant peaks, the urban bustle slows, offering moments of timeless tranquility amidst ancient temples and frost-kissed mornings. It’s a season of introspection and cozy retreats.

December in Kathmandu:

  • Weather Vignette: Cold days and colder nights.
  • Sights & Sounds: Snow-kissed peaks frame the city’s skyline.
  • Reasons to Visit: Quiet contemplation, less touristy hustle.
  • Traveler’s Tip: Pack heavy woolens.

January in Kathmandu:

  • Weather Vignette: The pinnacle of winter’s embrace.
  • Sights & Sounds: Hear the crunch of frost underfoot in early mornings.
  • Reasons to Visit: Experience Himalayan winter in its raw beauty.
  • Traveler’s Tip: Keep moisturizers handy.

February in Kathmandu:

  • Weather Vignette: Transitioning period, as winter starts to relent.
  • Sights & Sounds: The first buds of spring tease the senses.
  • Reasons to Visit: Ideal for those wanting a mix of winter and spring.
  • Traveler’s Tip: Layer up to adjust to fluctuating temperatures.
  • 10 Days India Nepal Trip Itinerary
  • 12 Days India Nepal Buddhist Travel
  • India Nepal Wildlife Tour 15 Days
  • 13 Days North India with Nepal Trip

Why You Should Visit Kathmandu?

Nestled amidst Nepal’s cultural tapestry, Kathmandu is not merely a stepping stone to the towering Himalayas. This pulsating heart of Nepal is awash with ancient temples, vibrant markets, and captivating museums. For those with wanderlust in their veins, Kathmandu offers an unparalleled odyssey into history and heritage. Dive in as we spotlight the city’s unmissable landmarks.

1. Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple):

Swayambhunath Stupa Kathmandu Nepal

Perched atop a hill, this ancient stupa is among the oldest religious sites in Nepal. As you ascend its stone steps, playful monkeys might greet you, hence its colloquial name. Once atop, panoramic views of the valley and the mesmerizing eyes of the Buddha painted on the stupa’s dome await.

2. Pashupatinath Temple:

Pashupatinath Temple Kathmandu Nepal

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Pashupatinath Temple stands as a revered sanctuary for devotees of Lord Shiva. Gracefully poised on the Bagmati River’s banks, it serves as both a sanctum of spirituality and a sacred cremation ground. The evening aarti, a luminous ceremonial prayer by the river, is a profound testament to its spiritual ambiance.

3. Boudhanath Stupa:

Boudhanath Stupa, Kathmandu, Nepal

Another UNESCO site, this enormous stupa is among the largest in the world. It’s a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists and features the omnipresent Buddha eyes and fluttering prayer flags, offering a serene ambiance.

4. Kathmandu Durbar Square:

Durbar Square, Kathmandu, Nepal3

The historic seat of royalty, this square is a collection of temples, courtyards, and palaces. Although parts were damaged in the 2015 earthquake, restoration efforts are underway, and the area remains a testament to Nepal’s architectural and cultural prowess.

Thamel Market, Kathmandu, Nepal

Thamel pulsates as the epicenter of Kathmandu’s vibrant tourism landscape. A maze of winding lanes, it’s alive with eclectic shops, cozy eateries, quaint hotels, and seasoned travel agencies. Whether you’re craving authentic Nepalese flavors or seeking reliable trekking essentials, Thamel promises a treasure trove of experiences.

6. Garden of Dreams:

Garden of Dreams, Kathmandu, Nepal

Nestled within Kathmandu’s bustling core, the Garden of Dreams is a serene haven reminiscent of the colonial epoch. Adorned with European-style fountains, elegant pergolas, and reflective ponds, it offers a picturesque retreat for those seeking a moment of tranquility.

7. Patan Durbar Square:

Patan Durbar Square Nepal

Anchored in the central embrace of Lalitpur city, Patan Durbar Square proudly boasts its UNESCO World Heritage status. Encompassing the historic Patan palace and an array of exquisite temples, this square is a window into the city’s illustrious past and architectural splendor.

8. Bhaktapur Durbar Square:

Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Nepal

Situated in the town of Bhaktapur , this square is a living museum of ancient art, culture, and medieval architecture. Highlights include the 55-Window Palace and the Vatsala Temple.

9. Narayanhiti Palace Museum:

Narayanhiti Palace Museum Kathmandu Nepal

Formerly the royal palace, it was transformed into a museum post-monarchy. The museum showcases the opulence of royal life and is also a testament to Nepal’s tumultuous political history.

10. Hanuman Dhoka:

Hanuman Dhoka Kathmandu Nepal

This historical ensemble, encompassing the venerable Royal Palace, serene courtyards, and sacred temples, takes its name from the prominent stone effigy of Hanuman, the revered Hindu monkey deity, that guards its entrance. It’s a journey through time, echoing tales of regality and devotion.

Kathmandu transcends its iconic landmarks; it invites you to immerse in its living history, irrespective of your time of visit. Select your season, mark your calendar, and let the age-old narratives of Kathmandu envelop you. Here’s to timeless journeys and memorable sojourns!

Follow-up Articles

  • Best Destinations to Visit in Nepal in July 2024
  • Top 10 Places to See in Chitwan
  • 10 Most Famous Waterfalls in Nepal
  • Best Time to Visit for Annapurna Base Camp Trek
  • 9 Famous Places to Visit in Bhaktapur
  • Top 10 Tourist Places to See in Chitwan
  • Things to Do in Bandipur, Nepal
  • 10 Famous Places to Visit in Lumbini
  • 7 Most Popular Haunted Places in Nepal
  • Best Places to See in Nepal in 3 Days
  • 13 Tourist Places to Visit in Nepal in June 2024
  • How to Reach from Kathmandu to Chitwan National Park

Satnam Singh

Satnam Singh

Satnam is a writer who loves traveling, meeting new people, and sharing his experiences through captivating blogs that you'll enjoy reading.

Related Posts

Nepal Uncovered: An August Adventure Through Weather, Culture, and Fun

India Tops in Nepal Tourist Arrivals in February 2024

Places to Visit in Mustang, Nepal

10 Best Places to Visit in Mustang, Nepal

Annapurna Base Camp Trek Nepal

Trekking Permits in Nepal undergo Digital Transformation

muktinath-temple-nepal

Muktinath Temple, Nepal: Visitor Guide, History, Places to Visit, How to Reach

Things to do in Dhulikhel Nepal

Dhulikhel: The Top 10 Activities to Experience

How can I plan a trip from Delhi to Nepal?

How to Plan a Nepal Tour from Delhi?

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Name  *

Email  *

Add Comment  *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Post Comment

IMAGES

  1. Dhulikhel Tours & Travel Information

    is july good time to visit nepal

  2. The Best Time to Visit Nepal

    is july good time to visit nepal

  3. LAS 10 MEJORES cosas que hacer en Nepal 2021

    is july good time to visit nepal

  4. 16 Of The Very Best Places To Visit In Nepal

    is july good time to visit nepal

  5. Top 5 Places To Visit In Nepal With Pictures

    is july good time to visit nepal

  6. The Best Time to Visit Nepal

    is july good time to visit nepal

VIDEO

  1. nepal after more than 10 years

  2. Day 5 of my time in Nepal Feb 2023

  3. I visited NEPAL 🇳🇵after a year and this is how it went 🌟💌🧚

  4. Holidays| Nepal tour 2023| kids’s first holiday in Nepal

  5. On The Way To Nepal

  6. First Time In Nepal (2023)

COMMENTS

  1. The Best & Worst Times to Visit Nepal (Updated for 2024)

    The best time to visit Nepal is October through February. These months offer dry conditions, warm weather with lower humidity, and excellent opportunities to hike, climb, go on safari, and explore Nepal. Clear skies make a visit to Nepal so much more enjoyable, and with cooler conditions between October and February (a good portion of the dry ...

  2. When to visit Nepal for temples, trekking and more

    Late February is a good time to visit the national parks of the Terai, go trekking at lower elevations, and hang out in the temperate traveler town of Pokhara. There are several notable events, including the Hindu festival of Holi, which can also fall in March. ... July. The monsoon continues to pound Nepal, though a few high trans-Himalayan ...

  3. Best time to visit Nepal

    The best time to visit Nepal depends on where you're going and what you're hoping to see. Discover the best time of year for travelling to Nepal and start planning your trip with our complete guide. ... The hottest month is June with average temperatures of 23°C, and the wettest is July with more than 15 days of rain in the month. If you want ...

  4. The Best Time to Visit Nepal

    For trekking, the best time to visit Nepal is during October and November, when it's sunny and warm. However, this is high season, when crowds and prices peak. Spring, from March to May, is also popular. It's the best time to see blooming flowers and wildlife. There are benefits of visiting Nepal at other times as well, depending on where you ...

  5. Nepal in July: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

    July falls right in the middle of Nepal's monsoon season, making it the least visited month of the year. That said, there are still things to see and do when it's wet out. Head to the Mustang region for excellent trekking or dig into the endless cultural sights of Kathmandu and Pokhara, taking ... Best Time to Visit Nepal Nepal Itinerary Ideas ...

  6. Best Time to Visit Nepal: Understanding Nepal's Four Main Seasons

    Nepal in July Nepal in August. Autumn in Nepal Crisp skies at Annapurna Base Camp. Autumn is the most popular trekking season in Nepal. It is also an amazing time to visit Nepal for cultural reasons, as there are lots of festivals, nature has vibrant colors as everything just had a wash and vegetation has grown strongly through the monsoon.

  7. Nepal weather July

    July is one of the wettest months of the year in Nepal. With the monsoon in full swing it's not a great time of year to travel. Roads sometimes get washed away, particularly in the mountains, and internal flights can get cancelled due to bad visibility. Pokhara in particular gets a lot of rain - nearly three times as much as Kathmandu.

  8. Best Times to Visit Nepal —Guide to Nepal Weather and Travel Experience

    The best time to visit Nepal is from October to December as the weather is stunning during this period. The average temperature is 22℃ (72°F) by day and 12℃ (54°F) at night. Trekking, jungle safaris, and outdoor activities are all enjoyable during this period. Dashain is the most auspicious festival in October.

  9. Best Time to Visit Nepal

    Best time to visit. 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 43°F in Namche Bazaar.

  10. Nepal in July: Weather, Tips and More I Bookmundi

    July is an interesting month to travel to Nepal, precisely because it is a low season.You might have to deal with rains while you are in the country at this time, but there are advantages too. The month of July offers an excellent opportunity to soak in the cultural highlights of Kathmandu and Pokhara minus big crowds and get the best possible deals on hotels and resorts.

  11. Nepal in July: Weather, Festivals, Trekking & More

    In Kathmandu, you can expect the daily temperature to be around 75F (24C). In areas around Chitwan and Lumbini, you can expect a very hot average of 97F (36C). In Pokhara, it's a little warm at 85F (29C). With an average of 21 days of rain in the month, it can be hard to plan. The good thing is it rarely rains all day.

  12. Best time to visit Nepal

    The best time to visit Nepal is pre- and post-monsoon (March to April and September to November), especially if you want to go trekking. Spring (March to May) is a particularly beautiful season as the rhododendrons are in bloom. That being said, there's still lots to do even in the off-season (not to mention a jam-packed calendar of cultural ...

  13. The Best Time To Visit Nepal (And The Worst!) 2024

    Conclusion: The Best Time To Visit Nepal. Nepal is a stunningly beautiful country with a diverse geography, rich culture, and warm and hospitable people. The best time to visit Nepal depends on your interests, preferences, and travel goals. However, the peak tourist season in Nepal is from September to November and from February to April.

  14. Nepal in July: Travel Tips, & Climatic Conditions

    Nepal in July can be an interesting time to visit, but it also comes with some considerations due to the weather and other factors. Nepal in July means the peak of the monsoon season. The beautiful month allows people to observe monsoon clouds and weird changing shapes. ... List of Best 5 Places to Visit in Nepal in July 1. Upper Mustang.

  15. The Best Time to Visit Nepal for Travel

    While the best time of year to visit Kathmandu, Pokhara, or the mountains is during peak season, it may not be the best time of year to see all of Nepal. For instance, those who want to visit the national parks have a wider window. Nepal is famous for being one of the few locations you can see Bengal tigers in the wild.

  16. Best time to visit Nepal: A comprehensive guide by a local

    Autumn in Nepal is undoubtedly the best time to visit Nepal for trekking and exploring the incredible Nepal Himalayas. With its pleasant weather, clear skies, and an abundance of trekking trails, there's no better time to lace up your hiking boots and embark on the adventure of a lifetime. Winter in Nepal (December-February): A Chilly Adventure

  17. Nepal in July

    Even if outdoor activities are more difficult at this time, you can still enjoy activities in cities and towns. Many cultural attractions, like as temples, museums, pubs and restaurants, shopping, and charming accommodation options with good prices can be found in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Bandipur. The Best Destinations to Visit in July

  18. Nepal Weather in July, Where to Go in Nepal in July

    The Best Places to Visit in Nepal in July. July is part of the rainy season in Nepal. If you don't mind frequent rain showers (which mostly happen in the afternoons), it is a good time to explore Nepal's numerous national parks as the rains make the plants green and lush.

  19. Best Time to Visit Nepal

    1. Spring Season (March-May) In this season, the temperature is softly warm at low altitudes while moderate at higher altitudes. This is the best time to Visit Nepal if you want to explore the beauty of this beautiful country. It's time for the flowers to blossom as you can see beautiful red rhododendrons - the national flower of Nepal ...

  20. Best Time to Visit Nepal

    The best time to visit Nepal is during the months of October and November. The monsoon is over, which means magnificent, green, lush vegetation as well as clean air - the perfect time to explore the country in all its beauty, especially given the mild temperatures. This is also the time the views of the peaks of the Himalayas are nearly ...

  21. How to Plan a Trip to Nepal

    Best Times to Visit Nepal. Nepal's climate is divided into two seasons: the rainy season (May to August) and the dry season (September to April). The best time to visit Nepal is during the "autumn" post-monsoon months (September to November) as the skies are generally clear and the views are spectacular, the visibility in the mountains is at its best and trekking conditions are great around ...

  22. Best Time to Visit Nepal (Climate Chart and Table)

    On this page, you will find information about the climate and the best time to visit Nepal. We created climate tables and charts for the location of Kathmandu. These contain details about temperatures, precipitation and more. ... It is characterized by warm summers with average temperatures of 24 °C in July and quite cool winters with 10 °C ...

  23. Best Time to Visit Kathmandu: A Detailed Season & Month Guide

    Kathmandu transcends its iconic landmarks; it invites you to immerse in its living history, irrespective of your time of visit. Select your season, mark your calendar, and let the age-old narratives of Kathmandu envelop you. Here's to timeless journeys and memorable sojourns! Follow-up Articles. Best Destinations to Visit in Nepal in July 2024

  24. The Best Time to Visit Aruba: A Month-by-Month Guide

    Weather in Aruba in January: If excessive heat is a deciding factor for you, January is the best time to visit Aruba. Daytime temperatures peak around 85 degrees F (29 C). Daytime temperatures ...