Trekking Season Guide

The trekking season in Nepal is usually October to May not to say that these are the only times people travel to Nepal to trek - dedicated trekkers come all year round. The fact of the matter is, that Nepal has something unique to offer in every season that is not there during the others.

October through November offer some of the clearest views of the mountains. It is not uncommon for fall storms during the season to deposit snow at higher elevations. Usually those above 10,000 feet where the temperature at night often drops below freezing. This however, is the most popular time for trekking and the time you are most likely to encounter large numbers of trekkers on the trails such as yourself.

Though considered a beautiful time for traveling by trekking, December through January is by far the coldest time, however there is little in terms of snowfall. Though haze is prevalent in the valleys, clear views are excellent at altitude. At altitudes of 3000 meters (10,000ft) temperatures drop daily below 0 degrees C (32 F), at even higher elevations those above 4000 meters (13,000ft) temperatures tend to dip even lower to near -18 C (0 F). It is common for many living in higher elevations to travel to lower grounds at this time.

Warmer months are February through March. Snow storms at higher elevations are common hampering travel through higher passes such as Thorung La, Cho La, Trashi Labsta, Laurebina La, and Ganja La but at lower altitudes this time of the year fosters blooming flowers, rhododendrons, and birds. At elevations below 3,000ft temperatures get quite warm, though air from India's Gangetic plains to the south brings with it dust and haze often shrouding distant views.

April through May are the hot months and are very arduous for trekking due to 100 degree F (38 C) temperatures at any altitude below 1000 meters (3,000ft). Below freezing temperatures, uncommon as they are during this time of the year, are sometimes encountered at elevations above 3600 meters (12,000ft). Haze caused by the rising heat is detrimental to views of the peaks though rare rainstorms sometimes clear the obstructing haze to reveal the gorgeous mountain splendor for those who "risked it" and traveled during this season. Those that choose to bare the scorching temperatures during this time of the year are rewarded with an opportunity to witness animals and plants that are rarely seen during the rest of the season. Plants such as the rhododendrons begin to bloom at progressively higher elevations where the increasing heat is finally able to reach.

June, July, August, and September, though they are not the most popular time of year to trek Nepal because of the monsoon season, they are still preferred by many adventurers. During this "off" time, produces the most beautiful sights of newly developed plants and grazing animals of the year. Some may not enjoy the monsoon season because of its unpredictable weather changing from light rainfall to sudden downpour, but others see this as the time to enjoy slow and foreigner-free travels to Nepal. This time of year, although it has fog and mist most of the day, it does have its grand moments of clearing up and showing you the amazing views of the mountain tops which thanks to the precipitation are covered in snow. Having not so many trekkers around really lets you feel and experience the culture of the Nepalis living in the hilly and mountain regions. It also gives you a chance (with the help of nature) to take it slow and be flexible with your planned trip because most of the time the trails are wet and can be slippery causing you to think twice about which path to take. It does have a few factors that you will need to prepare for such as rain, landslides, and leeches. This is the perfect weather for leeches so you should be aware of these little creatures, although they are not bad for you, they are just little pests. Landslides might occur, causing you to take a different route than planned, adding to your time to your travel adventure and minimizing your distance covered in a day. Rain should not be too bad of an obstacle as long as you are prepared with the right rain gear for yourself, (in example: a poncho, umbrella, and proper water-proof hiking boots, breathable while wet clothing) and protection for your porter (if you choose to have one) and the belongings you are carrying by using a plastic cover of some sort (i.e. plastic bag/wrap).

As others will tell you, whatever your preferred style, time of the season, or destination for trekking in Nepal, it is sure to be an exciting memorable experience you will remember forever.