Monsoon Trekking in Nepal

The peak trekking seasons in Nepal are spring and autumn, which last from March to May and September to November respectively. Retrospectively, monsoon weather is not considered suitable for high altitude trekking in the mountains due to wet and slippery trekking trails, poor visibility and flight cancellations. However, that does not mean that monsoon trekking cannot be done in Nepal. In fact, there are some trekking adventures in Nepal that are not affected by the monsoons, making them perfect to do during the country’s rainy months.

Monsoon trekking in Nepal is not very difficult. It can be done by people of all ages and experience. People who have limited time in Nepal and can travel only during the monsoon months from June to August can opt for a monsoon trekking adventure. Most of the days in Nepal from June to August are cloudy with heavy rain and continuous summer rains. About 80% of the country’s annual rainfall falls between June and August. However, monsoon rainfall generally decreases from east to west. As such, there are some trekking adventures that are perfect for monsoons, given below-

1. Upper Mustang Trek

The Upper Mustang Trek is one of the most famous cultural treks in Nepal, as well as a popular monsoon trekking adventure. Mustang lies north of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Himalayan ranges, west of which is the Kaligandaki Gorge, one of the deepest gorges in the world. The Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges make Mustang a rain-shadow area, perfect for monsoon treks. The Upper Mustang trek begins with a flight to Pokhara from where a trekking trail leads to Jomsom. You can also opt to fly to Jomsom, as it is an easier and faster option. From there, it’s a beautiful and culturally rich adventure to places like Kagbeni and Lo Manthang.

2. Nar-Phu Valley Trek

Nar-Phu Valley Trek is an off-the-beaten-track trekking adventure that is a good alternative to monsoon trekking in Nepal. Surrounded by the Himalayas on three sides and the Nar Phu valley on the west, the trekking is very attractive in this area. The Nar-Phu Valley trek offers trekkers the opportunity to experience the beautiful and unique culture of remote Nepal, the valley has its own dialect that is distinct from the Tibetan Buddhists and people who practice other religions. Special permission should be taken from Nepal government for Narphu valley trekking. And this makes the trek here, though difficult, enjoyable. This trek is a prime opportunity to experience the Bon culture of Nepal. Nar-Phu Valley Trek.

3. Tsum Valley Trek

Tsum Valley Trek is a sacred Himalayan pilgrimage valley located in North Gorkha. Trekking trails in Tsum Valley are strewn with artistic chortens and gem walls made of thousands of stone slabs with images of deities and inscribed prayers. Traditionally, the valley was a culturally distinct geographical area known as ‘Tsum Tso Chuksam’, which means “thirteen provinces”. Ancient remains of the Tsum kingdom can still be seen today. The valley is uniquely rich in wildlife; Herds of 50 to 200 gather in Ghoral and Thar. Similarly, the valley is also home to some unique and historic monasteries including Rachen Monastery and Mu Monastery on the plateau in the lap of the valley and Lungdang Monastery at the base. of the conical hill against the main slope of Ganesh Himal. The Tsum Valley trek begins with a trek through the villages of Arughat [670 m/2198 ft] along a path that leads along the Budhigandaki River.

4. Phoksundo Lake Trek

She-Phoksundo Lake Trek located in Dolpo is considered to be one of the most beautiful and exotic trekking spots in Nepal. Located in the rain shadow region of the Himalayas, the landscape resembles that of the Tibetan Plateau, perfect for monsoon trekking. With a Nepalgunj flight, the Phoksundo Lake Trek begins with a trekking route that leads to several ethnic villages including Jufal and Dunai. Nepalgunj is just 8 km away from the Indian border in the lowlands of the western Terai. Jufal is often the starting point for trekking tours, with spectacular views of the Kanjirova Mountains. Although Dolpo covers about 15% of Nepal, it is the least explored area of the country, having been opened for trekking as recently as 1989. Furthermore, the Dolpo region is protected by the She-Phoksundo National Park and offers trekking opportunities. Encounter and experience protected ecosystems and exotic wildlife that are considered near extinction in other areas, such as the blue sheep and snow leopard. The duration of the Phoksundo Lake trek is 11 days. This is a moderate trek best for monsoons.

5. Jomsom Muktinath Trek

Jomsom Muktinath Trek is an adventure trek for Monsoon trek. Located in the rain shadow of Annapurna mountain range, Jomsom Muktinath is a perfect blend of cultural and mountain features. And with many monasteries, chortens and gem walls throughout the journey, the atmosphere is thick with Buddhism. A sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists, The Muktinath Temple, a sacred shrine for both Hindus and Buddhists, is one of the highlights of the trek. Trekkers can take bath from the 108 stone spouts around the vicinity of the temple, which is believed to cleanse you of your sins and brings salvation to the soul.

The trip takes a scenic flight from Pokhara to Jomsom and treks through Kagbeni to Muktinath and the trekking trail returns through the famous apple orchards of Marpha.

6. Lower Dolpo Trek

One of the most challenging treks, the Lower Dolpo Trek takes trekkers into the western hills of Nepal where steep slopes and rugged trails await. Some of the attractions of the Lower Dolpo trek include Phoksundo Lake and the famous Bon Po culture.

With a flight from Kathmandu to Jufal via Nepalgunj, the trek begins through remote ethnic bon settlements like Laina Oder and Nawarpani. The highest point of the trek is Numa La (5360m) and Baga La (5070m) through two high passes making the trek challenging. Both passes offer exceptional views of the Dhaulagiri mountain (8167 m) and the Tibetan mountain ranges of Kugung La and Khyung La. Caravans of yaks and sheep can be seen coming down the pass with huge herds. Turquoise Phoksundo Lake is also a highlight of the trek. Lower Dolpo trek.

[Another adventure trek: Monsoon great destination for trekking in Ladakh, India, neighboring]

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