Nepal’s weather is generally predictable and pleasant. There are four climatic seasons: March to May (spring), June to August (summer), September to November (autumn) and December to February (winter). The Kathmandu Valley has a mild climate; the daily average temperature ranges from 19-27ºC in summer, and 2-20ºC in winter. In the Terai (Chitwan), there is a monsoon from the end of June to the middle of September, so a waterproof jacket will be required. Higher elevations have much colder temperatures. Clothing should be lightweight, hard-wearing and easily washed. For summer, loose fitting, non-revealing, cotton clothing is ideal. For colder months and colder evening or mornings around the year, layers of light jumpers or thermals and well as wind/waterproof jacket are good. The dress code throughout the tour is casual; however, it is important that all passengers dress conservatively. Smart casual clothes are highly recommended for evening banquets and shows.
Remember that at higher altitude, no matter the time of year sudden and unpredictable drops in temperature, snow or storms can hit on the mountain passes. The sun is also much stronger so you can be sunburnt more quickly.
Suggested Packing List
We recommend that you check the weather forecast prior to your departure so that you can pack accordingly.
- Your travel documents and passport; including a photocopy of your passport in case it is lost or stolen while you are abroad. Keep one photocopy at home and take another photocopy on your trip with you.
- Main luggage & luggage padlocks
- ‘Day bag’ - a smaller bag to carry with you during the day, both while driving and sightseeing. E.g. drinking water, hat, sunscreen, toilet paper, insect repellent, camera and spare batteries, jacket.
- Money belt to carry passport, cash, credit cards, airline tickets, etc.
- Trousers (or long skirts for women) – please remember to respect local customs (knee length is recommended).
- Shirts or long-sleeved tops of light cotton material
- Walking shoes and socks – it is important to have sturdy and comfortable shoes for sightseeing every day.
- Sun protection – hat, sunscreen and lip balm
- Personal medical kit including insect repellent - visit Travel Health
- Antibacterial wipes and/or hand sanitiser to clean hands before eating
- Tracksuit/similar outfit of soft material is recommended for the overnight train journeys
- A water/windproof jacket
- Light jumpers/thermals are great for layering, including gloves and scarf
- A ‘modesty shawl’ or sarong to wear in Muslim or conservative areas (for women)
- Torch, conversion plug and spare batteries – batteries available to buy tend to be unreliable
- Scarf or bandana – useful to protect your face against dusty winds at high altitude
- Spare glasses – it is difficult to get any prescription lenses repaired or replaced in Nepal
- Small bath towel is useful for overnight train journeys
- Toiletries (soap, shampoo, lotion) – for personal use during homestays.
- Toilet paper – not all public toilets will provide this
- Snacks – tea bags/coffee, milk powder or sachets, instant soups or noodles, or anything else you can’t live without!
- Camera and memory card
- If travelling to remote areas linen is provided but possibly not up to the standard you are used to. If you already have a compact and lightweight sleeping bag you could also bring that.
- A supply of face masks
Average Temperature & Rainfall
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
