The best time to visit Nepal for most travelers is during the Autumn (Mid-September to Mid-December) and Spring (March to May) seasons. These periods offer the most pleasant weather and are considered the peak seasons for tourism and trekking.

1. Autumn Season (Mid-September to Mid-December)

This is widely regarded as the best time to visit Nepal. The monsoon rains have cleared the air, leaving behind stable weather, clear skies, and spectacular mountain views.

• Pros:

  • Clear Views: The post-monsoon atmosphere provides excellent visibility of the Himalayan ranges.

  • Pleasant Temperatures: Temperatures are moderate and comfortable for trekking, with daytime averages in the lower elevations ranging from 16°C to 24°C (61°F to 75°F).

  • Dry Trails: The trails are dry and easier to navigate.

  • Festivals: This season coincides with major Hindu festivals like Dashain and Tihar, offering a rich cultural experience.

• Cons:

  • Crowds: This is the busiest time of the year, so trekking trails and teahouses can be very crowded.

  • Pre-booking: It is essential to book flights and accommodations in advance.

2. Spring Season (March to May)

Spring is the second-best time for a visit, as the winter cold fades and the country comes to life.

• Pros:

  • Warmer Days: Temperatures are warmer, especially at lower elevations.

  • Blooming Flora: The trekking trails are adorned with vibrant rhododendron forests and other wildflowers, particularly in April and May.

  • Fewer Crowds: While still a busy season, there are generally fewer trekkers compared to the autumn months.

  • Climbing Expeditions: This is the main climbing season for major peaks, including Mount Everest, so you can interact with climbers and see their base camps.

• Cons:

  • Hazy Views: The warmer weather can create a haze or clouds in the afternoons, which may obscure the mountain views, particularly at lower altitudes.

  • Warmer Weather at Low Elevations: The heat can make trekking at lower altitudes feel sweaty and uncomfortable.

3. Monsoon / Summer Season (June to August)

This period is not typically recommended for trekking due to frequent rainfall.

• Pros:

  • Fewer Tourists: The trails are much less crowded.

  • Lush Scenery: The hills are covered in lush, green vegetation and flowers.

  • Rain-shadow Regions: Areas north of the Himalayas like Upper Mustang and Dolpo receive very little rain and are excellent options for trekking during this season.

• Cons:

  • Rain and Mud: Frequent rains make trails wet, muddy, and slippery.

  • Obscured Views: Mountains are often hidden by clouds.

  • Leeches: Leeches can be a common nuisance in forested areas.

  • Travel Delays: Flights and roads can be affected by rain and potential landslides.

4. Winter Season (Mid-December to February)

Winter is an ideal time for those who don’t mind the cold and prefer a quieter experience.

• Pros:

  • Clear Views: The air is typically dry and clear, offering excellent photographic opportunities of snow-capped peaks.

  • Fewer Crowds: The trails are significantly less busy.

  • Snow-covered Landscapes: The landscape is beautiful, with fresh snow covering the high mountains.

• Cons:

  • Colder Temperatures: It gets very cold, especially at night, with temperatures dropping to sub-zero at higher elevations.

  • High Passes Closed: High passes (such as those on the Annapurna Circuit or Everest Three High Passes Trek) are often closed due to heavy snow.

  • Shorter Days: Shorter daylight hours limit trekking time.