Best Time Trekking in Nepal
Posted On:Saturday, May 21, 2022
The geography of Nepal makes most months the best time for trekking in Nepal. High mountains, amazing trails and green forests all have their important in making Nepal a major trekking destination.
Most people think trekking in Nepal is favourable only during spring and autumn. This is partially true as there are some treks that are not accessible during winter and monsoon but some other treks can be done even in these extreme weather conditions. So, you can trek in Nepal throughout the year but the options may change with the seasons.
Spring is one of the two best seasons for trekking in Nepal. Blooming of flowers, chirping of birds, greenery and mild weather mark the spring season. Most parts of the hills are green and the forest is dense as the spring season commences.
Trekking trails are decorated with rhododendrons and the view of the mountains at this time is clear. Also, the reflection of mountains on the surface of the serene lakes simmers to manifest an awesome glittery view.
During spring, Everest region treks offer you clear views of majestic mountains including Everest. Tibetan prayer flags fluttering at Kalapatthar with bright colours add amazing decoration to the view. The days of spring are peaceful and bright whereas the nights are full of stars, sparkling brightly. Most treks including Annapurna, Langtang, Everest, Mardi Himal and Kanchenjunga region are favourable during spring.
Autumn Trekking in Nepal
The Autumn season starts in September and ends in November. This is the time when almost all treks are accessible. The rain is not that heavy and the ground easily absorbs the water liberating a smell of fresh soil that gives extra freshness.
The trek routes around Everest and Annapurna region are especially crowded during this time of the year as this is the peak trekking season in Nepal. The weather is perfect for walking even in higher altitude areas with warm days and cold nights.
Autumn brings extra joy and excitement with the two biggest festivals in Nepal also falling in the months of September, October and November. Dashain and Tihar are widely regarded as the biggest Hindu festivals in Nepal. Many chose to visit Nepal during these festivals to get a glimpse of these festivals. It is a good time to trek and also explore the traditional and cultural insights of Nepal during Autumn.
June, July and August are the summer months in Nepal. Summer also marks the start of the monsoon season. The people of Terai (the southernmost part of Nepal) are engaged in farming and cultivating rice and paddy during the season.
Rainfall can be a major problem during these months and the recommended trekking destination for summer is the arid drylands like Mustang. Mustang Trek is one of the most preferred treks during summer. Mustang, located at an altitude of around 3,500m has a dry, windy and deserted geography.
Trekking in Upper Dolpo, Gokyo Valley and Limi Valley can also be done during summer. The view is mostly clear and the dense vegetation can be observed and the trekking paths are not that hard. While it is hard to get to the steep high altitude mountainous areas, short treks can still be done during monsoon. Everest View Trek and Annapurna View Trek are some of the perfect examples.
Another option for summer is the Kanchenjunga Trek. The trekking trails are dangerous but full of excitement. There is a fear of encountering snowstorms and avalanches in the Kanchenjunga trek during winter and autumn. So, for many, it’s better to go trekking in summer.
Even Though most treks are usually not recommended due to rainfall, many treks to places like Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp. So, the best idea is to collect info and inquire before planning to trek in Nepal.
Winter lasts from December to February in Nepal. The mountainous area is covered with snow and is too cold to trek. Some of the trekking areas in Nepal are not accessible during winter due to the chances of snowstorms and excess snow on the trekking trails. The trekking trails are life-threatening during winter at high altitudes.
Upper Mustang, Upper Dolpo, Humla Limi Village and Rara Lake treks are accessible during the winter months. There’s less snowfall on these trekking trails cutting the risk of a snowstorm during winter.
Trekking at high altitudes is risky during winter so it’s absolutely safe to go for short treks. Short treks like Ghorepani – Poonhill, Kalinchowk, Everest View, Balthali Village, Helambu, Kathmandu Valley and Dhampus – Sarangkot treks are accessible during winter.
Now that you know the best time for different treks in Nepal, you can plan a trek that meets your trekking needs and demands. Every season has its own importance in trekking and you can enjoy trekking around all the seasons. We should be aware of the season, gather info about the trek and plan accordingly, before heading for the trip.
What season are you planning to trek in Nepal? Share your plans below or inquire with us so that we can help you plan an awesome trip.
