Best Time to Visit Nepal

Autumn: October and November

Autumn is generally the most settled period, following the monsoon. Skies are often clear and mountain views are more reliable. It is also the busiest time, with major festivals in the calendar, so hotels and domestic flights fill early. Book ahead if you plan to travel then.

Winter: December to February

Winter days in Kathmandu and Pokhara are often bright, but mornings and evenings are cold. Fog can affect early flights and low-lying areas. It suits travellers who prefer quieter sights and who are happy with layers. Chitwan is cooler and pleasant for wildlife, though mornings can be misty.

Spring: March to May

Temperatures rise and the hills may show rhododendron blooms, usually from March into April. Haze can soften far views by the end of the season. Chitwan becomes hot by April, so wildlife activities are best in early mornings and late afternoons.

Monsoon: June to September

The countryside is lush, and rain often arrives in the afternoon or evening. Cloud commonly hides the mountains, and landslides can disrupt roads, especially between Kathmandu and Pokhara. A culture-focused trip in the Kathmandu Valley is still possible, with flexibility for weather.

Matching the season to your trip

• Heritage in Kathmandu: autumn and spring are comfortable, but the valley can be visited year-round.
• Pokhara and mountain views: autumn and early winter are most promising, though no season guarantees visibility.
• Chitwan wildlife: the cooler months from October to March are more comfortable.
• Hill walks: clearer, drier months, with spring for blossoms.

Planning tip

Weather varies each year, so treat seasonal guidance as a general pattern rather than a promise. Our Nepal destination page includes a seasonal summary, and our Nepal itinerary for five nights can be adjusted to your travel dates. For more general planning, read the Nepal travel guide.