Travel Tips
Kathmandu Weather by Month: When to Visit
Understanding Kathmandu's seasons helps you choose the right time to visit. This month-by-month guide covers temperature, rainfall, visibility, and what to expect on the ground.
Overview
Kathmandu sits in a valley at approximately 1,400 metres elevation, which moderates temperatures compared to the lowland Terai. The city has four distinct seasons: spring (March-May), monsoon (June-September), autumn (October-November), and winter (December-February). Each season has different implications for trekking, sightseeing, and day-to-day comfort.
October and November (Peak Season)
October and November are the best months to visit Kathmandu and the most popular for trekking. Skies are clear, temperatures are mild (daytime highs around 23-25°C, cool evenings around 10-12°C), and mountain views are at their sharpest. Festivals including Dashain and Tihar often fall in October or November, adding cultural richness. Expect busy trails, fuller guesthouses, and higher prices across the valley.
March and April (Spring)
Spring is the second peak season. Days are warm (22-28°C), rhododendrons are in bloom at altitude, and trekking conditions are good before the pre-monsoon haze builds. April can see increasing cloudiness in the afternoons. March is particularly good for photography.
December and January (Winter)
Kathmandu winters are cold by night (temperatures can drop below 5°C in January) but often clear and sunny by day. Mountain views can be excellent. Heating in budget accommodation is variable — check before booking. The city is less crowded and prices are lower. High-altitude trekking is not recommended in midwinter.
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February
February is a transitional month. Temperatures begin rising and the city sees occasional hazy days. It is a good month to visit Pashupatinath for the Shivaratri festival, one of the largest Hindu festivals in Nepal.
June, July, and August (Monsoon)
The southwest monsoon brings heavy, frequent rain from June through September. Kathmandu receives most of its annual rainfall during these months. Trekking trails at altitude are muddy and leech-infested. City sightseeing is still feasible between rain showers, and accommodation prices are at their lowest. The valley turns intensely green and lush.
September
Late September marks the end of the monsoon. Rains diminish, humidity drops, and the valley begins to clear. The last week of September and early October is excellent and less crowded than the peak weeks of mid-October.
FAQ
What is the best month to visit Kathmandu?
October is widely considered the best month overall — clear skies, good mountain views, excellent festival season, and comfortable temperatures.
Is Kathmandu worth visiting during the monsoon?
Yes, if you are primarily interested in culture rather than trekking. The rain is usually not continuous, museums and temple complexes can be visited between showers, and the valley's greenery is beautiful.
