Weather & Climate in Nepal
Nepal has a diverse climate and weather that mainly includes four seasons, namely autumn (or fall), winter, spring and summer (also monsoon). Nepal’s climate is similar to Europe but very different. December-January is cold while in June-July you can go around wearing just shorts and t-shirts. Generally, Nepal’s climate is temperate which means winters are dry and summers are hot. Overall, the best tourist season in Nepal is autumn or fall, as summer ends and winter begins.
Autumn/Fall Season (September-November)
Autumn falls between September and November, which brings extremely pleasant weather and breathtaking mountain views.
Spring (March-May)
Spring season, which falls between March and May, is also considered favorable. During this time, temperatures are mildly hot in the Terai and moderate at higher altitudes, providing ample opportunities to see breathtaking mountain views.
Winter (December-February)
Winter falls between December and February and is known for its relatively cold weather. Nepal sees fewer tourists during this period than other seasons.
Summer (June – August)
Summer, also known as the monsoon season, extends from June to August, with hot and humid weather throughout the day and occasional rain throughout the day. The monsoon season usually extends from late May to late August or early September. About 80% of the country’s rainfall occurs during this period, while the rest of the year remains dry.
Best Season to Visit Nepal
Autumn and spring are considered the best seasons for trekking and climbing in Nepal. These seasons offer pleasant weather and clear skies, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Winter, as well as the autumn and spring months, are also excellent times for leisure tours, wildlife safaris, cultural tours, and foothill trekking below 3,000 meters/9,850 feet. However, it is important to note that winters can be quite harsh in some areas.
The summer or monsoon months can also be a good time to visit Nepal for some activities. City tours, volunteer work, and cultural tours can be enjoyed during these months. Some areas of Nepal fall into the ‘rain-shadow’ zones where the monsoon is very light, making the summer months a good time to travel to these areas.
Overall, the best season to visit Nepal depends on your interests and the activities you want to do. It is important to plan your trip accordingly to make the most of your time in this beautiful country.
Best time for leisure travel in Nepal
Like any other adventure trip or cultural vacation, the best time to visit Nepal is undoubtedly the spring season (March to May) and the autumn or fall season (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is pleasant, with plenty of sunshine and warmth. The skies are clear, allowing travelers to fully appreciate the remarkable Nepalese landscape adorned with the beautiful Himalayan backdrop.
Winter from December to February can be quite cold in some areas, but it is still a favorable time for a leisure vacation. Starting in May, heat and humidity levels increase until the arrival of the monsoon season, making it less ideal for travel. The Terai regions of Nepal are usually hot and humid during the summer months, so planning a leisure trip to these regions during this time may not be as enjoyable as during other months.
Best time for adventure travel in Nepal
It may be possible to visit Nepal in all four seasons, but it depends on your purpose and the destination you choose. However, for most people, the best time for adventure travel in Nepal is spring (March to May) and autumn or fall (September to November). These seasons have pleasant weather with effective sunlight and warmth, making it the best time for trekking and hiking. In addition, the skies are clear, allowing you to enjoy the remarkable Nepali landscape filled with panoramic Himalayan views.
Despite the problems of slippery roads and low visibility and constant rain, the monsoon season (June to August) can be a boon for keen botanists, as the high valleys, mountains and grasslands bloom with flowers and abundant vegetation. Trekking can also be done in winter (December to February), especially in the hilly areas. However, high-altitude trekking in winter is much riskier and more challenging due to extreme temperatures and heavy snowfall. If you don’t enjoy crowds, trekking during the monsoon or winter months or choosing more secluded trekking destinations may be an option for you. Other adventure trips in Nepal, such as white water rafting, canyoning, or bungee jumping, can be done year-round, although the monsoon season may not be a good option for most people.
VISIT MORE: Nepal Travel Guide….
