Monsoon in Nepal

The monsoon in Nepal (June to September) transforms the country into a lush, green paradise but also brings heavy rains, landslides, and travel disruptions. Here's everything you need to know:

Monsoon Season Overview

Duration June to September (peaks in July & August)
Rainfall
  • Terai (Plains): 1,500-2,500 mm (flooding common)
  • Hills (Kathmandu, Pokhara): 1,000-1,800 mm
  • Mountains: Light rain (cloudy, trekking difficult)
Humidity 80-90% (feels hotter in Terai, cooler in hills)

Pros & Cons of Visiting Nepal in Monsoon

Advantages

  • Fewer tourists - Popular sites like Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan are less crowded.
  • Lush landscapes - Rice fields, forests, and waterfalls are at their most vibrant.
  • Lower prices - Hotels and flights offer 20-40% discounts.
  • Unique festivals - Experience Gai Jatra, Janai Purnima, and Krishna Janmashtami.

Challenges

  • Heavy rainfall - Flooding in Terai (Chitwan, Lumbini) and landslides in hills.
  • Flight delays - Frequent cancellations to Lukla, Jomsom, and mountain regions.
  • Leeches & mosquitoes - Common on trails and in jungles (Chitwan, Bardia).
  • Cloudy mountain views - Everest, Annapurna, and Langtang are often hidden.

Best Places to Visit in Monsoon

  • Kathmandu Valley: Less crowded UNESCO sites like Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, and Durbar Squares. Best for cultural tours, monastery visits, and indoor activities.
  • Pokhara: Stunning Fewa Lake reflections and short hikes to Sarangkot and World Peace Pagoda. Best for relaxing, paragliding (if weather permits), and boating.
  • Chitwan & Bardia National Parks: Lush jungles, fewer tourists, and high chances of spotting rhinos & tigers. Best for jungle safaris, bird watching, and Tharu cultural experiences.
  • Mustang & Upper Dolpo: Rain-shadow regions with minimal rain and clear skies. Best for trekking and cultural tours.
  • Rafting & Waterfalls: Best rivers: Trishuli (Class III-IV), Bhote Koshi (extreme). Best waterfalls: Davis Falls (Pokhara), Hyatung Waterfall (Eastern Nepal).

Worst Places to Visit in Monsoon

  • Everest & Annapurna regions - Cloudy, leeches, and landslide risks.
  • Langtang Valley - Heavy rain and trail damage.
  • Lumbini (Terai) - Flooding and extreme humidity.

Essential Monsoon Travel Tips

  • Pack waterproof gear - Jacket, quick-dry clothes, waterproof shoes.
  • Use leech socks - Especially when trekking in lower hills.
  • Carry mosquito repellent - Especially in Chitwan & Terai.
  • Book flexible flights - Morning flights are less likely to be canceled.
  • Check road conditions - Landslides can block highways like Kathmandu-Pokhara.
  • Stay updated on weather - Follow the Department of Hydrology & Meteorology Nepal.

Monsoon Festivals & Events

  • Gai Jatra (Aug): Cow procession in Kathmandu (honors the dead).
  • Janai Purnima (Jul-Aug): Sacred thread-changing festival.
  • Krishna Janmashtami (Aug-Sep): Celebrates Lord Krishna's birth.

Post-Monsoon Bonus (September-October)

  • Fresh air & clear skies - Best time for Everest & Annapurna views.
  • Rice harvest season - Golden fields in Pokhara & Kathmandu Valley.