Quick verdict
Peak season: Mar–Apr, Oct–Nov. Shoulder: Feb, May, Sep, Dec. Low: Jan, Jun–Aug.
Kathmandu has a subtropical highland climate with a pronounced monsoon season (June-September).
What's the weather like in Kathmandu by month?
Each month classified as peak (best balance of weather and value), shoulder (a step in either direction), or low season.
Why visit Kathmandu during Mar–Apr, Oct–Nov?
Warming temperatures with rhododendron blooms in the hills. Good trekking season though haze can obscure mountain views.
Shoulder season (Feb, May, Sep, Dec) trades a small weather concession for noticeably smaller crowds and softer prices — often the sweet spot for travelers who want flexibility.
Low season (Jan, Jun–Aug) is when prices fall hardest. Expect weather extremes (heat, humidity, cold, or rain depending on the destination) and reduced hours at some seasonal businesses, but the trade-off can be worth it if budget or solitude matters more than perfect conditions.
What festivals and events happen in Kathmandu?
- DashainOctober (15-day festival)
Nepal's biggest festival honoring the goddess Durga. Families gather, kites fill the sky, bamboo swings appear in villages, and blessings (tika) are exchanged. The city buzzes with festive energy.
- Tihar (Deepawali)October/November
The five-day festival of lights honoring Lakshmi, crows, dogs, cows, and siblings. Oil lamps and marigolds adorn every home. The Newari new year celebrations in Kathmandu are particularly vibrant.
- HoliMarch
The festival of colors where everyone throws colored powder and water at each other. Particularly chaotic and joyful in Kathmandu's Durbar Square and Thamel.
- Indra JatraSeptember
The living goddess Kumari is paraded through the streets of Kathmandu in a chariot during this ancient Newari festival honoring Indra, the god of rain.
Cooler & warmer in Asia this October
If Kathmandu's October weather isn't your match, here are the closest Asia alternatives at different temperatures. Distances are from Kathmandu.
Cooler
See the full ranked list: All Asia destinations in October →
Frequently asked
When is the best time to visit Kathmandu?
The best time to visit Kathmandu is Mar–Apr, Oct–Nov. Kathmandu has a subtropical highland climate with a pronounced monsoon season (June-September). These months balance comfortable weather, manageable crowds, and prices that haven't yet hit peak-season highs.
When is the cheapest time to visit Kathmandu?
Low-season months in Kathmandu run Jan, Jun–Aug. Flights and hotels typically run 20-40% cheaper than peak. The trade-off is weather (which is why these months are off-peak) and some businesses operating shorter hours, especially in smaller seasonal destinations.
What's the weather like in Kathmandu year-round?
Summer averages around 29°C (84°F) and winter averages around 10°C (50°F) in Kathmandu. Kathmandu has a subtropical highland climate with a pronounced monsoon season (June-September). At 1,400 m elevation, it is comfortable year-round but the monsoon brings heavy rain and poor mountain visibility. Autumn (October-November) is the premier season for clear skies and trekking.
What festivals or events are happening in Kathmandu?
Notable events in Kathmandu: Dashain (October (15-day festival)); Tihar (Deepawali) (October/November); Holi (March). Nepal's biggest festival honoring the goddess Durga. Families gather, kites fill the sky, bamboo swings appear in villages, and blessings (tika) are exchanged. The city buzzes with festive energy.
How many days do I need in Kathmandu?
Most travelers spend 3-5 days in Kathmandu, which covers the main neighborhoods, top attractions, and a half-day day trip. Add a day if you're visiting during peak season when crowds slow you down, or if you're combining Kathmandu with nearby destinations.
More peak-season picks for Kathmandu's best months
See every destination at its peak in each of Kathmandu's best months.
Full guide
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