The Two Windows
Nepal has two prime trekking seasons, and understanding them will make or break your trip.
Autumn (September – November) ★ Best Overall
- Weather: Crystal-clear skies, stable temperatures, almost no rain after mid-September
- Visibility: The best of the year. Post-monsoon air is washed clean
- Crowds: Peak season. Book 3–6 months ahead for popular routes
- Temperature: Comfortable at lower altitudes, cold but manageable above 4,000 m
Spring (March – May) ★ Best for Flowers
- Weather: Warming up. Clear mornings, afternoon clouds
- Visibility: Good but slightly hazier than autumn
- Unique: Rhododendron forests in full bloom (March–April). Spectacular
- Temperature: Warmer than autumn, especially at higher camps
Monsoon (June – August) — Not Recommended for Most
- Rain: Heavy and daily. Trails become slippery, leeches appear
- Exception: Upper Mustang and Dolpo sit in a rain shadow and are excellent in monsoon
- Pros: Cheapest flights, emptiest trails, lush green landscapes
Winter (December – February) — For the Hardy
- Weather: Dry and clear, but bitterly cold at altitude
- Crowds: Almost none. You'll have the trails to yourself
- Challenges: Some high passes may be snowbound. Shorter days
- Best for: Lower-altitude treks (Poon Hill, Langtang) and cultural trips
