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When Is the Best Time to Visit Nepal from India? A Complete Guide to Weather & Tourist Spots

Team AckoDec 5, 2025

The best time to visit Nepal is during the autumn (October-November) and spring (March-May) seasons. Throughout these months, the weather stays pleasant with clear skies and is ideal for trekking and other outdoor activities. Thanks to its close proximity to India, Nepal is an easy and popular destination for most Indian travellers. But do you know what makes it even better? The seasons coinciding with popular Indian festivities and school vacations. There couldn’t be a more perfectly timed getaway!

From snowy Himalayan peaks to quiet Buddhist monasteries, Nepal continues to captivate adventurers and those seeking a break from the fast-paced modern life alike.

So, are you ready to go backpacking? This blog helps you discover the best time and season to visit Nepal.

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Contents

Best Time to Travel to Nepal: Seasonal Highlights

If you are wondering about the best time to visit Nepal from India, the answer depends on the kind of experience you are looking for. Whether it is trekking through the Himalayas, exploring with family, or soaking in the local culture, Nepal is a year-round destination, but each season brings its own charm.

Peak Season in Nepal: Autumn (Oct-Nov)

Autumn is regarded as the best season to visit Nepal, whether you are travelling solo or with family. And there’s a good reason why. Through October and November, the country is abuzz with major festivals like Dashain and Tihar. On the other hand, it is also the busiest trekking season, so if Everest Base Camp or Annapurna is your dream, this is the time.

This season offers the best overall travel conditions like comfortable weather and excellent visibility for mountain adventures. Just keep in mind that it is also the busiest, so flights to Nepal and accommodations can become expensive.

Shoulder Season in Nepal: Spring (Mar-May)

Spring, however, is warm and vibrant. With the rhododendrons blossoming and clear views of the mountains, the months from March to May are an excellent time for hiking, rock climbing, and outdoor pursuits. It is cheaper than autumn, too, which makes it an ideal blend of comfort and affordability. However, while visibility is generally good, occasional haze can blur mountain views toward late May. 26

Off-Season in Nepal: Monsoon (Jun-Sept) & Winter (Dec-Feb)

If you are on a budget or want to enjoy Nepal without the crowds, the monsoon months (June to September) can be tempting. Yes, there is rain and slippery trails, but it is also the cheapest season to visit Nepal to enjoy lush green landscapes, peaceful vibes, and plenty of offbeat adventures like paragliding and rafting.

Through December to February, the winter season in Nepal is quieter and colder. But this is perfect if you love to explore cultural festivals, temples, and city life in Kathmandu or Pokhara. Trekking at higher altitudes can be tough, but the lower regions like Ghorepani Poon Hill or Langtang Valley still offer beautiful, crisp mountain views.

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Season-Wise Guide to Visit Nepal

Not sure when to plan your Nepal adventure? Here’s a quick season-wise breakdown to help you decide. Each season offers an opportunity to explore different interests, whether you’re an adventure junkie, a culture enthusiast, or someone simply seeking to unwind amid nature.

Season	Months	Best For
Spring	March – May	Trekking, blooming rhododendrons, and clear mountain views
Summer/Monsoon	June – September	Paragliding, rafting, budget travel, and peaceful offbeat experiences
Autumn (Peak)	October – November	Family trips, trekking, sightseeing, mountain climbing, wildlife tours
Winter	December – February	Cultural festivals, city exploration, crisp mountain view

Found a season that suits your travel style best? Let’s take a closer look at what each month in Nepal has to offer to plan your ideal trip even better.

What Is the Best Month to Visit Nepal? A Month-by-Month Guide

Here is a detailed month-by-month guide to help you plan a deserving trip to Nepal with your family and friends.

1. Nepal in January

January in Nepal has clear weather, and spectacular mountain views of the Himalayas enhance the beauty. Trekking at high altitudes is challenging due to the snow, but the views are worth that challenge. However, the cool climate gives an extra flavour to city tours and temple visits. It is also a good time to experience local cuisine, hot pot drinks and a stay in a Nepalese traditional guesthouse.

Temperature: 0°C to 18°C (32°F to 64°F)
Weather Conditions: Dry and cold; snowy in the mountain regions
Festivals: Maghe Sankranti, Sonam Lhosar, Saraswati Puja, New Year’s Day

Why should you visit Nepal in January?

Trekking in low altitudes
Start of tiger safari season in Chitwan National Park
Cultural tours in Kathmandu and Pokhara

2. Nepal in February

It's still winter in February, yet the country is warmer than it was in the previous month. Expect clear blue skies and pleasant temperatures throughout the day. As the days get warmer, you can explore the great outdoors and enjoy festivals that mark the beginning of spring next month.

Temperature: 4°C to 25°C (39°F to 77°F)
Weather Conditions: Still cold with clear view of mountains; pre-spring blossom
Festivals: Basant Panchami, Maha Shivaratri, Tibetan New Year (Losar Festival), Holi (Fagu Purnima)

Why should you visit Nepal in February?

Trekking in lower to mid altitudes
Wildlife safaris in Chitwan and Bardia National Parks
Cultural tours amid views of pre-spring blossom

3. Nepal in March

March in Nepal is an energetic and rejuvenating period to visit. Sightseeing and other outdoor activities are incredible here in clear skies and mild weather. The landscapes soon become colourful with spring blooms. The level of tourism becomes high and yet not congested during the high season. It is also a magnificent month to explore the local market, street foods, and experience vibrant Nepali culture.

Temperature: 8°C to 28°C (46°F to 82°F)
Weather Conditions: Pleasant and dry climate; rhododendrons starting to bloom at low altitudes
Festivals: Ghode Jatra (The Festival of Horses), Holi (Fagu Purnima), Gyalpo Lhosar

Why should you visit Nepal in March?

Start of spring trekking season; trekking at mid to high altitude
Witness horse parades and acrobatics during Ghode Jatra in Kathmandu
View blooming rhododendrons in Langtang Valley

4. Nepal in April

April in Nepal is characterised by hot days, making it ideal for adventure in nature and culture. Clear skies give a beautiful view of the Himalayas, turning it into a favourite destination for adventure lovers. Spring colours surround the hills and valleys, adding extra charm to each journey. Include local culture, outdoor activities and spectacular landscape features that make the experience of visiting the tourist spots unforgettable.

Temperature: 10°C to 30°C (50°F to 86°F)
Weather Conditions: Warm and hot, often dry in cities; peak season of rhododendron bloom at higher altitudes
Festivals: Nepali New Year (Bisket Jatra in Bhaktapur), Nepali New Year, Rato Machchendranath

Why should you visit Nepal in April?

All kinds of trek (peak season for Annapurna Circuit and Everest Base Camp)
Experience chariot parades during Bisket Jatra
Try festive Newari feasts like samay baji and local rice liquor, Aaila
Try mountain biking and hiking

5. Nepal in May

May in Nepal is long, sunny, and excellent for spending time doing outdoor activities before the monsoon begins. Mornings are typically sunny with fantastic mountain views before the roll-in of afternoon clouds. The month is also ideal to explore the green country of Nepal, try the delicious local fruits, and indulge in the rich Nepali culture under clear, warm skies.

Temperature: 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 89°F)
Weather Conditions: Hot and humid type of climate, pre-monsoon
Festivals: Buddha Jayanti

Why should you visit Nepal in May?

High-altitude trekking in regions like Everest Base Camp and Upper Mustang
Go white-water rafting before the monsoon sets in
Explore rain-shadow areas such as Mustang and Dolpo

6. Nepal in June

In Nepal, June is marked with a new beauty as the monsoon sets in, transforming the valleys and the hills into green. Trekking in most areas is highly challenging due to rain, but the countryside is very lively. There are fewer tourists and the prices are cheaper for accommodation. It is also a great time to enjoy local cuisine and cultural experiences, while watching the rains transform Nepal's landscape.

Temperature: 19°C to 30°C (66°F to 86°F)
Weather Conditions: Officially beginning of monsoon season with frequent and heavy rainfall; high level of humidity
Festivals: National Paddy Day (Ashar Pandra), Ramjan Edul Fikra

Why should you visit Nepal in June?

Enjoy start of monsoon amid Nepal’s green valleys
Visit rain-shadow regions in Upper Mustang and Dolpo, which remain mostly dry
Experience cultural immersion during National Paddy Day with rice planting, mud play, and community feasts

7. Nepal in July

July in Nepal is marked by monsoon rains, which refresh the country and bring a sense of peace. The scenery is greener than usual, giving an outstanding view of rice fields and mossy mountains. This month, you will explore limited outdoor adventures, but the quiet atmosphere makes sightseeing a relaxing experience. Travellers experience warm hospitality and vibrant traditions, and fewer crowds than usual.

Temperature: 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F)
Weather Conditions: Peak monsoon season with very heavy to consistent rainfall
Festivals: Ghantakarna, Guru Purnima

Why should you visit Nepal in July?

Trekking in rain-shadow regions like Upper Mustang and Dolpo, which remain mostly dry
Enjoy short hikes and photography around Pokhara’s lush trails and waterfalls
Unwind with indoor activities like yoga, spa days, and café hopping in Kathmandu and Patan

8. Nepal in August

The month of August in Nepal is full of energy as the rains fill the valleys and hills with green landscape. The rural areas are green and spectacular. In most areas, hiking is challenging, but shorter hikes and cultural exploration are enjoyable. It is also time to unwind in the local towns, enjoy regional cuisine, and view Nepalese nature with your own eyes.

Temperature: 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F)
Weather Conditions: Monsoon season continues with heavy rainfall and waterfalls
Festivals: Gai Jatra, Janai Purnima, Krishna Janmashtami

Why should you visit Nepal in August?

Immerse in festive celebrations with dishes like Kwati (nine-bean soup) and Sel Roti
Ideal season to visit rain-shadow regions like Upper Mustang and Dolpo
Go on short scenic hikes around Pokhara or Nagarkot

9. Nepal in September

Visiting the country during September is one of the ideal times to see, as there are clear skies and fewer rainy days. The air is fresher, and the mountains gradually appear with a beautiful sight. Nature is abundant, and the fields and forests make every trip absolutely beautiful. There is a perfect balance of greenery, comfortable weather and fewer crowds, making the month highly suitable for exploring Nepal.

Temperature: 13°C to 28°C (55°F to 82°F)
Weather Conditions: Monsoon ends; weather starts to clear
Festivals: Indra Jatra, Teej (festival for women)

Why should you visit Nepal in September?

Start of autumn trekking season; trek through mid-altitude trails
Experience Kathmandu’s Indra Jatra with masked dances and the Kumari chariot procession
Relax amid crisp mountain air and clear views of the Himalayan peaks

10. Nepal in October

This is a perfect time to go trekking! The weather averages 20°C and is pleasant and sunny. With the rainy season over, and the weather cooling down from summer heat to pleasant autumn, tourists start making their way during the peak season. Days are warm while evenings are cooler. October also marks Dashain, Nepal’s biggest Hindu festival. It is celebrated for about 15 days with family gatherings, blessings of tika and jamara, and kite-flying competitions. You don't want to miss out on this!

Temperature: 10°C to 26°C (50°F to 79°F)
Weather Conditions: Stable kind of weather with clear view of the mountains, pleasant temperature
Festivals: Tihar/Deepawali (Festival of Lights), Dashain

Why should you visit Nepal in October?

Peak trekking season, especially across Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit
Experience Dashain with kite-flying competitions and festive dish like khasi ko masu (goat curry)
Trails and parks reopen after the rains; ideal time for sightseeing, safaris, and clear Himalayan views

11. Nepal in November

November is an ideal time to visit Nepal, with clear days, mild weather, and a clear view of the Himalayas. It is a full trekking season, and trekkers can go on the grounds of the Annapurna as well as the Everest Base Camp. The climate is stable and favourable with no rain. Visitors are full of life at the tourist attractions. November is the ideal time for those seeking adventure, culture, and breathtaking mountain scenery.

Temperature: 7°C to 23°C (44°F to 73°F)
Weather Conditions: Cool and dry weather with clear view of mountains, preferably stable weather
Festivals: Tihar (continues from October), Chhath Parva, Guru Nanak Jayanti

Why should you visit Nepal in November?

Trek from mid to high altitude trails like Everest Base Camp, Annapurna, and Langtang
Go on wildlife safaris in Chitwan or Bardia National Park
Experience Tihar, Nepal’s Festival of Lights, across five days of celebrations

12. Nepal in December

The month of December in Nepal is cold, especially in the mountains, but the skies are clear and the view is great. The weather is quiet with minimal presence of tourists. High altitude treks are strenuous because of the presence of snow, but lower trails and cultural tours are pleasant. Kathmandu and Pokhara cities turn out more lively during the Christmas and New Year holidays. December is a good time to travel in Nepal because it is cold, yet affordable.

Temperature: 0°C to 19°C (32°F to 66°F)
Weather Conditions: Snow in higher altitudes with extreme cold weather
Festivals: Christmas, New Year’s Eve

Why should you visit Nepal in December?

Trek on low-altitude trails like Ghorepani Poon Hill or Langtang Valley
Try spotting snow leopards in the Shey Phoksundo or Annapurna Conservation Area, where sightings are more likely in winter
Enjoy winter delicacies like thukpa (noodle soup) and su chya (butter tea)

Things to Know Before Visiting Nepal

Planning a trip to Nepal soon? Here are a few quick tips that can make your journey smoother:

Visa: Indian citizens don’t need a visa to enter Nepal. Make sure to carry a valid passport, voter ID, or Aadhaar card for entry.
Best Time: Visit Nepal in autumn (Oct-Nov) or spring (Mar-May) for trekking and festivals. But monsoon and winter offer fewer crowds and cheaper rates.
Permits: Most treks need a TIMS Card and National Park Entry Permit. These are easily available in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
Packing: Carry layers as mountain weather changes fast. Bring rain gear (Jun-Sep) and sun protection year-round.
Money: Carry cash outside major cities; ATMs aren’t always reliable in rural areas.
Health & Safety: Stay hydrated, drink bottled water, and get travel insurance that covers trekking and medical emergencies.

When Not to Visit Nepal?

Nepal is a year-round destination. But certain months can be less ideal for travellers, especially if you're planning treks or mountain views.

Heavy rainfall between June and August can lead to landslides, slippery trekking trails and frequent travel disruptions.
Cloudy monsoon skies often block Himalayan views, making sightseeing and mountain photography quite difficult.
December to February sees extreme drops in temperatures, especially at higher altitudes.
Snow during winter can also make many trekking routes challenging or completely inaccessible.

With the right planning, you can avoid these challenges and still enjoy Nepal at its best.

Why Choose Travel Insurance While Visiting Nepal?

When booking your trip to Nepal, choosing ACKO Travel Insurance gives you complete peace of mind. Be it flight cancellations, delays, lost baggage, or unexpected medical bills, we have got you covered.

Also, Nepal is renowned for adventure sports and trekking, but these activities also bring risks. With ACKO's Add ons for Adventure Sports and Injury, you can go trekking, rafting, or paragliding with peace of mind, confident that you are covered financially. For any accidents, emergencies, or trip halts, ACKO's prompt assistance and easy claims make your trip hassle-free.

Wrapping Up!

Nepal is the land of mountains, culture and adventure, with something to offer everyone. The best season and time to visit Nepal can be considered all year round, but the autumn months notice the most travellers. So, whether you are a budget traveller or looking for a luxurious vacation, proper planning can help you achieve one of the best vacations of your life.

We hope our guide will help you plan your vacation. Travel smart with ACKO and worry only about making memories in Nepal!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I travel to Nepal without a visa?

Yes! Indian citizens can travel to Nepal without a visa. You just need to carry a valid passport, voter ID, or Aadhaar card for entry. Indian travellers can also use these IDs for domestic flights within Nepal.

Which is the cheapest time to visit Nepal?

The off-season in Nepal, which spans from June to September, is also the cheapest time to visit.

Which is the most Expensive Time to Visit Nepal?

The most expensive time to visit Nepal is October and November. This is also its best time to visit, especially if you're travelling to scale Mount Everest or go trekking or hiking in the exhilarating Himalayas and other Nepali mountain ranges. However, you will need to book way in advance if you're trying to get flights or accommodation, especially in Kathmandu and around the Mount Everest base camps.

Which is the best time to visit Kathmandu?

The best time to visit Kathmandu is in October, November and December, which falls between autumn and mid-winter. You can enjoy the clear blue skies, pleasant weather and breathtaking landscape. Book in advance to hold a reservation at accommodations in the peak season!

Which is the hottest month in Nepal?

The hottest months in Nepal are June, July, and August. The temperatures reach as high as 32℃, particularly in the Terai and Kathmandu Valley.

Which is the best season to visit Nepal to experience snow?

If you want to experience snow, you can visit Nepal in December.

What are the top 10 places to visit in Nepal?

The top 10 places you must visit in Nepal are Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan National Park, Lumbini, Everest Region (Solukhumbu), Bhaktapur, Annapurna Circuit, Nagarkot, Janakpur, and Rara Lake.

What local Nepali dishes should I try besides momos?

Nepal's momos are worth the hype but don't miss out on trying:

Khasi ko Masu – spicy goat curry, a festive staple during Dashain
Sel Roti – a sweet, crispy ring-shaped rice doughnut made during festivals
Thukpa – a warm noodle soup popular in the mountains during winter

Can I try yak butter and milk in Nepal?

Yes! You can find yak milk, butter, and cheese in high-altitude regions like Everest, Annapurna, Langtang, Mustang, and Namche Bazaar. Su chya, i.e., butter tea is a popular salty Himalayan specialty made with yak butter.

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