Best Time to Visit Nepal 2026-2027

Nepal’s climate changes from one topographic region to another. The country is home to a vast geography, from the subtropical plains of Terai to the high-altitude Himalayas. Depending on your preferences, there is a plethora of exploration opportunities. Whether you are looking to trek in the mountains, explore the lush hills, embrace the exciting cultures, or go on a wildlife safari, the best time to visit Nepal depends on your preferred activity.

We recommend understanding the climatic conditions of the four major seasons to maximize your experience in 2026-2027.

Nepal in Spring (March to May)

Spring is a good time to explore Nepal. With the winter chills fading away, you will find the lower regions come to life with vibrant spring blossoms. The temperatures are moderate, making it the peak season for climbing Himalayan giants, like Mount Everest.

From March to May, you will find the hilly regions (between 2,000 and 3,000 meters) adorned in shades of red and pink as the rhododendron blossoms take over the landscapes. This is also an ideal time for a wildlife safari as the conditions are suitable for spotting the wildlife. Likewise, in the mountains, there are chances of brief afternoon showers, but planning for these brief showers with the right gear ensures your trek remains uninterrupted.

Nepal in Monsoon (June to August)

The monsoon months are characterized by heavy rains and high humidity. This is considered an adverse time for trekking in the Himalayas as the trails are slippery and infested with leeches. However, you can still visit the “rain shadow” regions, like Upper Mustang and Dolpo. While the rest of the country experiences incessant rain, these rain shadow areas offer excellent opportunities to explore Tibetan-style culture and barren landscape, escaping the typical high-season travelers.

In the lower valleys, the monsoon rains bring out lush vegetation. The agricultural heartlands spring back to life as farmers keep themselves occupied in the fields. While the mountain views are mostly obstructed, the waterfalls are raging rivers at their mightiest. This is also the cleanest time of the year as the water washes out all the dust and pollution gathered throughout the pre-monsoon months.

Nepal in Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is the peak travel season in Nepal. The post-monsoon months wash away the dust, making the air incredibly crisp. Skies are typically clear, offering uninterrupted views of the Himalayas. This is also the festive month. Travelers can plan their holiday to coincide with the biggest festivals of Dashain and Tihar.

During autumn, you will find stable weather throughout the country. There are fewer chances of rainfall, making it the safest and most popular time for trekking in the Himalayas. Due to the clear visibility, this is also the best time for mountain photography and scenic mountain flights.

Nepal in Winter (December to February)

Winter is known for its clear blue skies but freezing temperatures, especially in high-altitude regions. While trekking in the high-pass regions is difficult due to snow, lower-altitude treks like Ghorepani Poon Hill treks are still possible. This is an ideal time to explore Kathmandu Valley and go on a jungle safari in Chitwan and Bardiya, as the weather is cool and crowds are sparse.

In Kathmandu, mornings are often foggy, but the mist clears into sunny afternoons, perfect for sightseeing tours and exploration of the ancient temples of Patan and Bhaktapur. Being a relatively quiet tourist month, you can also find accommodations on “off-season” bargains. Apart from exploration, winter is the best season for bird watching, as migratory species from Siberia migrate to the wetlands in the southern plains.

Seasonal Overview

What to Pack for your Nepal Trip?

• Layered Clothing: Moisture-wicking base layers, a warm fleece, and a high-quality down jacket (especially for evenings).
• Footwear: Sturdy, broken-in trekking boots and comfortable sneakers for city walking.
• Sun Protection: High-SPF sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to combat thin mountain air.
• Personal First Aid: Include Diamox (for altitude), rehydration salts, and water purification tablets/LifeStraw.
• Power Solutions: A reliable power bank and a universal "Type D" or "Type C" plug adapter.
• Gear: A lightweight sleeping bag (for teahouses) and a durable 30-40L daypack.
• Toiletries: Biodegradable soap, wet wipes, and hand sanitizer (facilities can be basic).