Best Times to Visit

Nepal's weather varies from subtropical lowland, with hot, humid summers and mild winters, to an alpine climate over 3,300m, where peaks are permanently snow-covered. There are four climatic seasons: March to May (spring), June to August (summer), September to November (autumn) and December to February (winter), with spring and autumn generally being the most pleasant seasons.

Summer and late spring temperatures range from 28ºC in the hill regions to more than 40ºC in the Terai. In winter, average minimum and maximum temperatures in the Terai range from a 7ºC to 23ºC. However, the central valleys are much colder ranging from below freezing point to 12°C. Higher elevations are even colder.

The monsoon season occurs during June to September, when about 80% of the rain falls. Average annual precipitation ranges from 90 cm in the west to 180 cm in the east.

Visitors are advised to bring tropical and lightweight clothes, with waterproofs recommended from June to September. Warmer clothing will be needed for the mountains, and any trips taken between October and March.

More information about the Nepalese weather may be found in Climate in Nepal.

Festivals

Festivals take place in Nepal throughout the year, lasting from one day to several days. Many of these are performed in honour of the gods and goddesses, whilst others mark the seasons or important points in the agricultural cycle.

The festivals in the Kathmandu Valley are the most spectacular. In August or September, Kathmandu celebrates Indra Jaatra, which sees the city indulge in a wild eight days of festivities to honour the god Indra, with chariot processions and masked dancers. In late September to November two major festivals occur, Dashain (victory over demons) and Tihaar.

Other important festivals include Buddha Jayanti (the celebration of the birth of Buddha) and Maha Shivaratri, a festival of Lord Shiva. Sherpas, mostly located at higher altitudes and in the Everest region, celebrate Mani Rimdu, for the good of the world.

Public Holidays

The following table shows the public holidays celebrated in Nepal: