Climate and monthly weather forecast
Nepal

Nepal, a landlocked country in South Asia, is primarily characterized by three different climates, owing to its varied topography ranging from the lowland Terai plains to the lofty Himalayan peaks. This rich geographical diversity influences the overall weather conditions throughout the year. The Cwa climate, the Humid Subtropical Monsoon type, is mainly experienced in the lower altitude regions of Nepal. It features warm temperatures all year round, peaking in the summer months which are accompanied by substantial monsoonal rainfall.

Higher altitude regions, such as the mid-hills and lower Himalayan range, experience the Cwb or Subtropical Highland Oceanic climate, which presents with warm, rainy summers and dry, mild winters. The day-night temperature fluctuation can be quite significant in these areas. The Cfa climate, Humid Subtropical, is found in the relatively lower regions where the temperature and rainfall remain high throughout the year, with the summer season being notably hotter and rainier than winter.

For optimal experience, the post-monsoon autumn period, specifically from October to November, is often considered the best time to visit Nepal. During these months, the weather is generally clear and dry with moderate temperatures, providing excellent conditions for trekking and outdoor activities. The visibility is also high during this period, offering breathtaking views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks. Moreover, the landscape is refreshed and lush after the monsoon rains, adding to the scenic beauty of the country.

The monsoon season, primarily from June to September, is generally regarded as the worst time to visit Nepal. During this period, the country experiences heavy rainfall, making the trails muddy and increasing the risk of landslides, particularly in hilly and mountainous regions. The humidity is high, often leading to an uncomfortable travel experience. Moreover, the visibility is low due to persistent cloud cover, obscuring the majestic mountain vistas that Nepal is famed for.

Spring in Nepal, typically from March to May, presents a diverse array of weather conditions. In the lowland Terai regions, where the Humid Subtropical Monsoon climate predominates, the temperature ranges from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F). There is moderate rainfall during this period, adding to the overall humidity. Meanwhile, the higher altitude regions under the Subtropical Highland Oceanic climate experience milder temperatures between 10°C (50°F) and 20°C (68°F) with less frequent rainfall, creating a favorable environment for trekking.

The summer season in Nepal, which coincides with the monsoon, lasts from June to September. The lowland regions experience high temperatures ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 35°C (95°F), coupled with substantial rainfall. The high altitude regions, while cooler with temperatures from 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F), also witness significant rain during this period. This can often lead to slippery trails and landslides, making travel challenging in these areas.

Autumn in Nepal, extending from October to November, is characterized by moderate temperatures and lower precipitation levels. In the lowland regions, temperatures typically range between 15°C (59°F) and 25°C (77°F). The high altitude regions experience cooler conditions with temperatures from 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F). The clear skies and dry weather make this period ideal for outdoor activities and mountain expeditions.

Winter in Nepal, from December to February, varies significantly depending on the altitude. The lowland Terai regions experience mild winters with temperatures between 10°C (50°F) and 20°C (68°F), while the high altitude regions can get quite cold, with temperatures often dropping below 0°C (32°F). Despite the cold, the winter period is relatively dry, and the visibility is generally good, except for occasional foggy conditions in the Terai plains.

January, the middle month of winter, is one of the coldest months of the year in Nepal. In the capital city of Kathmandu, located in the hilly mid-region, average temperatures range from 2°C (35.6°F) to 10°C (50°F), while in the southern lowland Terai regions, temperatures are slightly milder, varying between 5°C (41°F) and 20°C (68°F). Weather in January »

February in Nepal sees the onset of late winter, with a gradual increase in temperatures compared to the preceding month of January. In the capital, Kathmandu, average temperatures range from 4°C (39.2°F) to 14°C (57.2°F), while in the lowland Terai regions, temperatures vary between 8°C (46.4°F) and 25°C (77°F). Weather in February »

March ushers in the spring season in Nepal, marking a significant shift in weather conditions from the preceding winter months. In Kathmandu, the capital city situated in the hilly mid-region, average temperatures range between 7°C (44.6°F) and 20°C (68°F). Weather in March »

April signals the height of spring in Nepal, featuring warmer temperatures and increasing rainfall. Kathmandu, the capital city nestled in the hilly mid-region, sees average temperatures ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 25°C (77°F). Weather in April »

May in Nepal marks the end of spring and the beginning of summer, characterized by rising temperatures and a significant increase in rainfall. In the capital city Kathmandu, situated in the hilly mid-region, average temperatures range from 15°C (59°F) to 30°C (86°F). Weather in May »

June in Nepal signifies the onset of summer and the monsoon season, hallmarked by high temperatures and heavy rainfall. In the capital city Kathmandu, located in the hilly mid-region, average temperatures generally range from 18°C (64.4°F) to 30°C (86°F). Weather in June »

July marks the peak of the monsoon season in Nepal, characterized by persistent high temperatures and heavy rainfall. In Kathmandu, situated in the hilly mid-region, average temperatures usually fluctuate between 20°C (68°F) and 30°C (86°F). Weather in July »

August in Nepal signifies the tail-end of the monsoon season with continued high temperatures and significant rainfall. In Kathmandu, the capital city nestled in the hilly mid-region, average temperatures generally fluctuate between 20°C (68°F) and 30°C (86°F). Weather in August »

September in Nepal marks the transition from the monsoon season to autumn, bringing a decline in temperatures and rainfall. In the capital city Kathmandu, located in the hilly mid-region, average temperatures typically range between 18°C (64.4°F) and 28°C (82.4°F). Weather in September »

October in Nepal marks the full onset of autumn, characterized by stable weather, moderate temperatures, and relatively low rainfall. In the capital city Kathmandu, situated in the hilly mid-region, average temperatures generally range from 10°C (50°F) to 25°C (77°F). Weather in October »

November in Nepal is well into the autumn season, known for its clear skies, moderate temperatures, and minimal rainfall. In Kathmandu, located in the hilly mid-region, average temperatures typically fluctuate between 5°C (41°F) and 20°C (68°F). Weather in November »

December in Nepal signifies the onset of winter, characterized by cold temperatures and relatively dry conditions. In the capital city Kathmandu, nestled in the hilly mid-region, average temperatures typically range between 0°C (32°F) and 15°C (59°F). Weather in December »