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Best Time to Visit Nepal from India

This article aims to cover the best time to visit Nepal, which is March to May. Nepal is nestled in the Himalayas. So when someone goes uphill, they will notice a drastic change in the temperature and weather. This is why it is best to plan your trip after knowing all the season.

Nepal has four seasons, and we can divide them into spring, summer, autumn and winter. Here are some events and activities that you can participate in if you wish to visit Nepal for your next vacation:

Best Months/Seasons to Visit Nepal

If you are trying to find the best seasons for travelling to Nepal, follow the list discussed below:

Month Temperature Range Description
March-May (Spring Season) 8 to 28 Degrees Celsius Mild temperatures, are perfect for exploring Kathmandu's historic sites, trekking in the Himalayas, and enjoying local festivals like Holi and Buddha Jayanti.

Popular events during this time: Buddha Jayanti, Nepali New Year and Holi.
June-August (Summer Season) 19 to 27 Degrees Celsius Warm weather with monsoon rains, and lush greenery is ideal for trekking in Annapurna and Everest regions, experiencing cultural festivals, and wildlife spotting in Chitwan National Park.

Popular events during this time: Janai-Purnima, Teej and Rato Machhindranath Jatra.
September-November (Autumn Season) 18 to 22 Degrees Celsius Pleasant temperatures with clear skies, great for trekking in Langtang and Mustang regions, exploring ancient temples, and enjoying the vibrant Dashain and Tihar festivals.

Popular events during this time: Indra-Jatra festival, Dashain, and Tihar.
December-February (Winter Season) 3 to 19 Degrees Celsius Cool temperatures with occasional snowfall in higher altitudes, perfect for trekking in lower regions like Nagarkot, experiencing winter festivals like Maghe Sankranti, and enjoying mountain views under clear skies.

Popular events during this time: Kathmandu International Film Festival, Maghe Sankranti and Losar.

March-May (Spring Season)

Spring in Nepal is when nature comes back to life as ice melts and lakes turn clear. The temperatures slowly rise and turn pleasant as the gorgeous blue skies are contrasted with the beautiful snow-capped mountains in all directions. It is the best time to take hikes through flower-dotted valleys and celebrate the festivities of Buddha Purnima and Holi with the locals. If you are travelling on a budget, this coming spring may be one of the best times for you to visit.

Here are some of the key details you should know about this season when planning a trip to Nepal:

Weather Warm
Temperature 8°C to 28°C
Season Moderate to Peak
Season for Localities Buddha Jayanti, Nepali New Year, Ghode Jatra, and Holi
Key Highlights
  • Witness blooming rhododendrons across the Himalayan foothills
  • Participate in colourful festivals like Holi and Buddha Jayanti
  • Trek through lush green valleys and enjoy clear mountain views

June-August (Summer Season)

Summer in Nepal coincides with the region's monsoons. Hence, it's going to be a very wet season with daily showers. That's why this is a very peaceful season away from tourists and is highly recommended if you want to enjoy some peace in the lush and warm Nepal. Just be wary of landslides and take precautions on your treks for a safe trip.

Here are some of the key details you should know about this season when planning a trip to Nepal:

Weather Warm with monsoon showers
Temperature 19°C to 27°C
Season Off
Season for Localities Janai-Purnima, Teej and Rato Machhindranath Jatra
Key Highlights
  • Witness vibrant festivals like Teej and Rato Machhindranath Jatra
  • Explore cultural sites in Kathmandu Valley amidst lush green landscapes
  • Immerse yourself in Nepal's natural beauty and enjoy local festivities

September-November (Autumn Season)

A great number of people visit Nepal in the autumn because of its amazing weather, and trekking routes and paths are open then. This period is worth visiting if you want to see The Himalayan Range's magnificence and enjoy Nepali culture and food. Reborn by the monsoon, the country looks so alive during this time with greenery that will make your senses tingle.

Here are some of the key details you should know about this season when planning a trip to Nepal:

Weather Mild
Temperature 18°C to 22°C
Season Peak
Season for Localities Indra-Jatra festival, Dashain, 100 Ultra Trail Race, and Tihar
Key Highlights
  • Trek through colourful forests and enjoy panoramic mountain views
  • Experience vibrant festivals like Dashain and Tihar
  • Visit ancient temples and monasteries amidst clear skies

December-February (Winter Season)

Wintertime in Nepal is a cold and even snowy affair at higher altitudes. It is the best time to relax and sightseeing in Kathmandu, with a warm bowl of Thupka to warm your insides. If you are the adventure type, then you must attempt one of the famous winter treks,  the Tengboche Monastery Trek, for the spectacular view it offers.

Here are some of the key details you should know about this season when planning a trip to Nepal:

Weather Cold and snowy in a few regions
Temperature 3°C to 19°C
Season Off
Season for Localities Kathmandu International Film Festival, Maghe Sankranti and Losar
Key Highlights
  • Embark on exhilarating treks amid snowy landscapes
  • Attend traditional festivals like Maghe Sankranti and Losar
  • Explore serene monasteries and cosy up to warm hospitality
  • Visit tea estates at Illam

When to Avoid Visiting Nepal?

However, as lovely as Nepal is all year round, it is advisable to only visit during winter if you are ready for extreme coldness and very short daylight hours. The coldest and darkest spell starts from early November to February, which may not be favourable for outdoor activities or colourful cultural events.

Months to Avoid Reason
June to August (Monsoon/ Summer Season)
  • The monsoon season in Nepal is shorter than all the other seasons in this country. The days are usually warm and humid, and it mostly rains at night. Furthermore, landslides are widespread occurrences during this season. Due to this reason, this season might not be the best time to travel to Nepal.
  • Additionally, the roads are always congested, and if you get stuck in traffic, you may have to wait for hours before the roads get cleared. For instance, a 14-hour bus ride quickly extends up to 27 hours if a sudden landslide occurs. Furthermore, all the trekking and hiking routes are closed during monsoon seasons.

Seasonal Travel Costs of Visiting Nepal from India

Flying from India to Nepal could be quite affordable, depending on your travel dates. Over the years, flights and hotels have different prices for their services. Below is an elaborate table showing the different months/seasons with respective price levels in respect of several parameters:

Season Average Flight Cost Average Hotel Cost per Night Description
Spring (March-May) ₹5,000 - ₹7,000 ₹4,000 - ₹8,000 Moderate prices; ideal for exploring and outdoor activities with mild weather.
Summer (June-August) ₹4,000 - ₹6,000 ₹3,000 - ₹7,000 Off-season with moderate prices. Although it is off-season, several individuals love to visit and enjoy local festivities.
Autumn (September-November) ₹5,000 - ₹9,000 ₹4,000 - ₹9,000 Peak season, with higher prices due to increased tourism, is perfect for trekking trips and festivals.
Winter (December-February) ₹4,500 - ₹7,000 ₹3,000 - ₹7,000 Off-season with moderate prices. Although it is off-season, several individuals love to visit and enjoy snow and winter trekking.

Things to Know Before Visiting Nepal

Now that you know the peak, shoulder and off-seasons to travel to Nepal, let us discuss some things you must know before travelling to this country. Here is a list of those things:

  • Tribhuvan International Airport, situated in Kathmandu, is the most chaotic. At first glance, you might find it immensely crowded, so try not to feel overwhelmed the moment you land.
  • If you stay in Kathmandu, then try to find accommodation at Thamel. This is a lovely place in the vicinity of the capital for travellers and is also well-connected and accessible via other areas in Kathmandu.
  • You cannot take Nepalese currency out of the country as it is illegal. So make sure you exchange all your cash for INR before returning to India.
  • Remember to get a trekking permit from Nepal Tourism Office before you start climbing mountains. Without a TIMS (Trekkers Information Management Systems) card, you will not be allowed to trek in Nepal.

Tips for Travelling in Nepal

Below are a few tips that will come in handy for you while you travel in Nepal:

  • While travelling in Nepal, do not try to pick or consume "ganja". This common weed grows on the hillside and is illegal to consume in the country.
  • In Nepal, people use 220V plugs to use their electric gadgets. Therefore, make sure you carry a universal plug and voltage adapter kit so that you can use and plug in your electronic gadgets easily.
  • Do not display any food items in front of the monkey in temples or religious sites. They might try to snatch it from you; in this case, you might get injured.
  • After 10 PM, if you are trying to get a taxi in Nepal, they might try to run without a meter and even ask you to pay double the price. So, try to negotiate the terms before you get into a cab.
  • Do not visit establishments in KTM and PKR like bars and clubs. This is because there have been instances of tourists getting lured into buying alcohol at the double the price. Furthermore, such establishments are unsafe as there have been reports of fights and violence.
  • Be prepared to use squatting toilets in Nepal as most public bathrooms in Nepal do not house the western toilets like in India.

What Phrases Should You Know Before Travelling to Nepal?

Most Nepali people know how to speak English and Hindi, but it would be helpful if you knew a few phrases in Nepali before you travel to that country. Below are some phrases that will come in handy:

English Nepali
Hello Namaste
Thank You Dhanyabad
Good bye Pheri bhetaunla
Excuse Me/ Sorry Maaph garnuhos
Yes Hajur
No Chaina or Haina
Do you speak English? Tapaai Angreji bolnuhunchha?
I am lost Ma haraye
Do you have any rooms available? K tapai sanga kunau kotha upalabda cha?
How much is this? Yes ko kati parchha?
How are you? Kasto Cha?
I am fine Thik Cha
Have you eaten? (used often as informal greeting) Khana khannu bhaiyo?
I don’t understand Maile bhujhina
I understand Maile bhujhe
I hope we meet again Pheri bhetaunla
What is your name? Tapaiiko naam ke ho?
My name is… Mero naam… ho
What happened? Ke bhayo?
Little bit Ali ali
Tea Chiyaa
Water Paani
Hot Taato
Cold Chiso
It Is Delicious Mitho Cha
The Bill, Please Bill Dinus

 

Now that you know all the places you can visit in Nepal and the best time to visit Nepal from India, you can start making your travel plan. You can also buy reliable travel insurance and medical insurance before your trip begins. Travel and medical insurance will help you save a lot of money if you require help during unforeseen circumstances like loss of luggage and passport, medical emergencies and more.

FAQs about Best Time to Visit Nepal

Is Nepal expensive to visit?

No, Nepal is generally affordable, offering budget-friendly options for transport, food, and accommodation.

When to go to Kathmandu?

The best time to visit Kathmandu is from September to November (autumn) and February to April (spring) when the weather is mild and ideal for trekking and sightseeing.

Do Indians need a visa for Nepal?

No, Indian citizens do not need a visa to travel to Nepal. They can enter Nepal without a visa and stay as long as they want. This is due to the special bilateral relationship between India and Nepal, which allows for unrestricted travel between the two countries.

Which month is there snow in Nepal?

Nepal experiences snowfall in the higher Himalayan regions from December to February, making it ideal for winter sports and trekking.

Which month is good for Nepal?

The best months to visit Nepal are October and November, during the autumn season, and March to May, during the spring season, for clear skies, moderate temperatures, and festivals.

Why is Nepal worth visiting?

Nepal is worth visiting for its stunning Himalayan landscapes, rich cultural heritage, diverse wildlife, and adventurous trekking trails.

Is Kathmandu worth visiting?

Yes, Kathmandu is worth visiting for its ancient temples, bustling markets, vibrant culture, and as a gateway to trekking in the Himalayas.

Is Kathmandu hot or cold?

Kathmandu experiences mild to warm temperatures with cooler evenings, ranging from 19 to 27 °C in summer and 3 to 19 °C in winter.

Is it safe to go to Kathmandu at night?

Yes, Kathmandu is generally safe to visit at night, but it's advisable to stay in well-lit areas and take precautions against petty crimes.

Is Nepal good for nightlife?

No, but Nepal offers some nightlife options in Kathmandu and Pokhara, including bars, clubs, and live music venues, though it's not as vibrant as other cities.

What is the speciality of Nepal?

Nepal is known for its Mount Everest, Himalayan trekking, Buddhist temples like Boudhanath and Swayambhunath, and traditional handicrafts such as Thangka paintings and Tibetan carpets.

What is the most visited place in Nepal?

Kathmandu Valley, including Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan, is the most visited place in Nepal for its cultural heritage sites and temples.

What is the prettiest place in Nepal?

Pokhara is considered one of the prettiest places in Nepal for its lakeside setting, stunning views of the Annapurna range, and adventure activities.

What to buy from Nepal?

Popular items to buy in Nepal include handicrafts, pashmina shawls, Tibetan singing bowls, prayer flags, and Nepali tea.

What foods is Nepal famous for?

Nepal is famous for dishes like dal Bhat (lentil soup with rice), momo (dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), and sel roti (sweet rice bread).

What are 5 facts about Nepal?

Here are five facts about Nepal:

  • Nepal is home to Mount Everest, the world's highest mountain.
  • Lumbini in Nepal is the birthplace of Buddha, the founder of Buddhism.
  • Nepal boasts over 125 ethnic groups with diverse cultures and traditions.
  • It hosts a wide range of flora and fauna, from the Terai plains to the Himalayas.
  • Nepal blends Hinduism and Buddhism, as seen in its temples and stupas across the country.

Is Nepal good for shopping?

Yes, Nepal offers a variety of shopping experiences, from bustling markets to upscale boutiques, with unique souvenirs like traditional crafts, textiles, and local artworks.

What is the peak season in Nepal?

The peak season in Nepal is from September to November (autumn) when the weather is clear.

What is the moderate season in Nepal?

Nepal's moderate seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), offering pleasant weather with fewer tourists compared to peak season.

What is the off-season in Nepal?

The off-season in Nepal is during the monsoon months from June to August when heavy rains can make trekking challenging in the Himalayas, but it's a great time to visit for lush landscapes.

Is winter a good time to visit Nepal?

Winter (December to February) is a good time to visit Nepal for lower-elevation trekking and cultural sightseeing, although higher elevations can be very cold.

Which month is the rainy season in Nepal?

The rainy season, or monsoon, in Nepal, typically peaks from June to August, bringing heavy rainfall, especially in the southern plains and foothills.

Which month is best for visiting Kathmandu?

The best months to visit Kathmandu are October and November during autumn and February to April during spring when the weather is mild and ideal for sightseeing.

Why is Nepal a preferred destination for travelling?

Nepal is preferred for its majestic Himalayan mountains, rich cultural heritage, spiritual experiences, and adventure activities like trekking and mountaineering.

What are the popular places to visit in Nepal?

Popular places to visit in Nepal include Kathmandu Valley (Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Patan), Pokhara, Chitwan National Park, Lumbini, and trekking regions like Everest and Annapurna.

How many days are enough for Nepal?

A trip of around 10 to 14 days is usually enough to explore the main attractions of Nepal, including Kathmandu, Pokhara, and a short trek in the Himalayas.

Is Nepal a tourist-friendly country?

Yes, Nepal is known for its hospitality, ease of travel, and relatively safe environment for tourists, although standard precautions should always be taken.

What currency to take to Nepal?

The currency used in Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). It's advisable to carry local currency for most transactions, although some places may accept US dollars or Indian Rupees in border areas.