You must be aware of the weather whenever you plan to visit Nepal. The weather in Nepal depends on the region you are in, although generally, the tourist destinations of Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan National Park remain hot throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from 15 degrees Celsius up to 35 degrees. Monsoon season hits from June to August, making it generally too wet for trekking. After the rain has calmed, September to November welcomes lush vegetation and clean air, providing incredible mountain views. This also kickstarts the hiking season, which runs until May. December and February welcome cooler temperatures. However, lower regions such as Kathmandu typically remain in the low to mid-twenties (degrees Celsius), and travellers are rewarded with clear skies. Temperatures in Kathmandu are climbing from 23 degrees Celsius in March to 29 degrees Celsius in May.
Religion is an important part of everyday life in Nepal. When visiting religious sites make sure you behave respectfully. Take off your shoes before entering Hindu temples and Buddhist sites are usually walked in a clockwise direction.
The best time to visit Nepal is from October to December, after the monsoon season when you’re greeted with clear blue skies, little rain and lush green vegetation. March through May are also popular times to travel to Nepal when the region transforms into a dazzling spectacle of colourful blossoms. The weather is still calm before the monsoon season reaches the country in June, and temperatures are reaching a comfortable level in the mid-twenties after the cold winter months.
However, unless you want to trek to Mount Everest, Nepal is an all-year-round destination, with many perks to travelling outside the peak season. October is easily the busiest time in Nepal, and travellers overrun the Annapurna foothills. If you don’t like crowds and are after a more authentic experience, you might want to avoid peak season.
Temperatures are milder in January and February. You’ll likely catch days around the comfortable 20 degrees Celsius in Kathmandu this time of year, and you won’t find many tourists in Nepal then. Suppose you don’t mind packing warmer clothes for chilly nights. In that case, January and February can be advantageous times for travellers who like to explore Nepal without the throngs of tourists and the pressing midday heat.
Dashain is probably the biggest and most popular festival that is celebrated in Nepal. The date varies every year but it’s usually celebrated in late September or October and lasts for a fun-filled 15 days. The festival has its roots in Hindu religion and celebrates the victory of Goddess Durga over the evil Mahishasura. Get ready for a real cultural experience and exciting activities such as Kite flying when you visit Nepal this time of year.
Tihar, also known as Diwali or The Festival of Lights, is celebrated for 5 days in October or November. Locals decorate their homes and temples and you’ll be rewarded with a sea of candles and colourful lanterns. It may be the most beautiful time to visit Nepal.
Pchum Ben is the most culturally significant event in the country, taking place in September of each year. People come together to bless the souls of ancestors and relatives and friends who have passed away, with Buddhist temples being the focal point of the festival. It is also known as “Ancestors Day”.
Teej is an important festival in Nepal and is usually celebrated in August or September for three days. Women come together in majestic red saris and sing songs of prayer and womanhood, dance and enjoy food. That’s right, it’s a women-only festival where gods and womanhood is celebrated. If you’d like to join the party, bear in mind that although a big focus of the festival is food, women fast on the second day.
Fagun Purnima, or Holi, is a well-known festival that is now celebrated all over the world. During the festival people gather to throw brightly coloured powder at each other to honour Lord Krishna, a reincarnation of Lord Vishnu. You’ll also find locals lighting bonfires during the festival. This is to celebrate the death of a demon who tried to defeat Lord Krishna.
Buddha Jayanti is usually celebrated in May or June by Hindus and Buddhists and honours the birth of Lord Buddha. Major religious sites are decorated, and monks gather to pray. If you want an authentic experience, travel to Lumbini during the celebrations. It’s said to be the birthplace of the Gautama Buddha.
Lhosar is the Tibetan New Year and is celebrated on different days by different communities. The three different Lhosars are usually celebrated in December, January and February. During the festival, friends and families come together to sing, cook, dance, decorate, pray and even exchange gifts. You’ll also find communities wearing traditional clothing and visiting religious sites.
January
Maghe Sankranti
February/March
Maha Shivaratri
August
Janai Purnima
August/September
Gai Jatra
August/September
Indra Jatra
August/September
Krishna Janmastami
20th September
Constitution Day
25th December
Christmas Day
Travelling to Nepal is at the top of many bucket lists – and with good reason! Nepal is a majestic country with the most beautiful scenery. We know that it can be daunting to know where to start. Tucan Travel has operated in the region for many years and has expert knowledge of the country. As an adventure travel specialist, we work hard to suggest authentic experiences that don’t break the bank. The companies we promote proudly partner with local suppliers, accommodation owners and transport companies. In line with our commitment to responsible travel, this ensures that tourism supports the local businesses and that money goes back into the community as much as possible.
We are passionate adventure travelers who want to share the world and our travel experiences with everyone…
