Trekking in Nepal in Spring Season (March to May)
Spring or Pre-Monsoon season occurs during the dates of March to May. This is the time when the cold from the winter (Dec – Feb) decreases and the temperature just starts getting warmer and pleasant. As the fog clears up, you will be able to get the best views of the magnificent scenery. The trekking trails all over the country are laden with vibrant mixes of red, pink, and white offering surreal experience along the trek. Spring season is another busiest time of the year in Nepal for trekkers. For trekkers, spring season offers warm temperatures, blossoming flora and temperate days. For climbers, Spring season is the preferred time as Mt. Everest and other 8000m mountains such as Lhotse, Makalu, Kanchenjunga are climbed during this season due to the low winds at the summits. The treks to the base camps of these mountains are also interesting at this time of year due to the expedition. Spring season is also the best time to witness the wildlife of Nepal. Best places to do so are Chitwan and Bardia. The wildlife frolicking in their haven welcomes as the trips in the country take shape for a magnificent experience.
Pro’s of trekking in Spring season:
Warmer days, blossoming flora and temperate days for trekkers
Interaction with climbers/sherpas heading to scale Everest (Everest region)
Fewer trekkers as compared to the Autumn season
Con’s of trekking in spring season:
Clouds will form usually from afternoon time obscuring the views of mountains
Warmer days at lower elevation can lead to uncomfortable situations (hot and sweaty)
Trekking in Nepal in Summer/Monsoon Season (June to August)
Summer/Monsoon which stars from June and lasts till August brings the rain in Nepal thus making the travel wet and warm. Trekking in Nepal during this time of year is not typically recommended due to high temperatures, more rains, uncomfortable conditions. Seeing the mountains at this time of year is very rare as the mountains are enveloped in clouds. The mid-hill regions are covered with greenery, lush vegetation and stunning flowers which can capture the viewer’s heart at a glance. However, monsoon season blesses areas north of the Himalaya like Dolpo/Upper Mustang as these regions fall under the shadowland thus keeping it out of range of the rain clouds. The regions that are rain shadowed can be visited at any time of the year. These places include Upper Mustang, Dolpo, Rara Lake, Annapurna Circuit trek, Humla Limi valley etc.
Pro’s of trekking in Summer/Monsoon season:
Fewer tourists on the trail
Lush vegetation and stunning flowers
Con’s of trekking in Summer/Monsoon season:
Warmer days with frequent rains making the trail wet
Obscured views and muddy trails
Leeches are common at this time of year.
Trekking in Nepal in Autumn season (September to November):
The autumn or post-monsoon season occurs during the dates of September and November. This is when the rain settles and the weather gets dry. As the cold starts rising the days become shorter. But again, the skies start clearing and you get the best possible views. Most people prefer this time for trekking as the trails are dry and it’s easier to walk. The Post Monsoon season brings a stable high pressure, giving clear skies, sunshine, warm days and cool nights. All the trekkings route and climbing peaks receive massive numbers of travellers at this time of year. The festive season also begins during autumn making the cities also pretty interesting as they are decorated with all the possible glitz and glamour.
pro’s of trekking in Autumn season:
Clearer views with stable and sunny weather
Pleasant weather with moderate temperatures at lower areas ranging (16-24 C during day time)
Guaranteed views of mountains at this time of year at higher elevations
Con’s of trekking in Autumn season:
More travellers making the trails and hotels busy
Pre-bookings required as the hotels en route will be fully packed
Trekking in Nepal in winter season (December to February)
December to February (Winter) brings snow which sprinkles over the mountains making it great for viewing the snowcapped peaks. However, the harsh weather makes it more difficult to reach destinations. Popular treks like Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Sanctuary Trek, Everest Panorama can be done at this time of year. Weather will still remain clear offering views of mountains, trails will be less busy, a perfect time for photographers with fresh snow on the hills but the only significant downside is the cold temperature. Daytime temperatures can range between 9-12ºC, and evenings can drop to sub-zero temperatures. High Passes treks such as Annapurna Circuit, Everest Three High Passes Trek are usually closed at this time of year due to more snows. Winter season is also a good time for travellers who are looking just to explore the cities of Kathmandu, Pokhara, Nagarkot, Bandipur etc.
Pro’s of trekking in winter season:
Less number of travellers
Perfect time for photographers due to clear weather and fresh snow on grounds
Con’s of trekking in winter season:
Colder temperatures
Trails to high passes will be blocked due to more snow coverage