Autumn Season Treks in Nepal

19th Jun, 2023

Autumn (September to November) is widely considered the best season for trekking in Nepal due to clear skies, stable weather, stunning mountain views, and comfortable temperatures. The perfect combination of natural beauty, pleasant climate, and cultural experiences makes it an ideal time to explore the Himalayas.

Normally, in Nepal, there are two main trekking seasons: spring and autumn. However, autumn is considered the best season for a wonderful trekking experience in Nepal. The autumn trekking season begins in early September and lasts until December. Early September marks the end of the monsoon, clearing the skies from the previous rains, resulting in wonderful weather and stunning mountain views. The atmosphere becomes crisp and clear, with sunny days, perfect visibility, and moderate temperatures—neither too hot nor too cold—making it ideal for trekking in Nepal.

Choose the best time for trekking in Nepal, as autumn not only offers ideal trekking conditions but also provides the opportunity to experience popular festivals such as Dashain, Tihar, and Mani Rimdu. The weather and climate are perfect for trekking, tours, climbing, and other activities in Nepal.

Moreover, autumn is the peak season for trekking and climbing, attracting many travelers to Kathmandu, Pokhara, and along the trekking trails. During this season, trekking agencies offer various group trekking packages, making it easier for travelers to join budget-friendly treks.

The weather and climate are perfect for trekking, tours, climbing, and other activities in Nepal. Moreover, autumn is the peak season for trekking and climbing. During this time, you will see many travelers in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and along the popular trekking trails.
Additionally, many trekking agencies offer group trekking packages in autumn, making it easier for budget-conscious travelers to join a trek.

Before coming to Nepal, choose the best trekking season to experience its rich culture, breathtaking nature, and the stunning landscapes of the Himalayas.

Highlights of autumn Trekking in Nepal

• Perfect Weather and Clear Skies: - Stable temperatures with minimal rainfall, crystal-clear mountain views with excellent visibility, and ideal trekking conditions featuring warm days and cool nights.
• Stunning Mountain Views: - Snow-capped peaks contrast beautifully against deep blue skies, making it the perfect time for photography with vibrant landscapes. Enjoy breathtaking sunrise and sunset views over the Himalayas.
• Peak Trekking Season and Festive Atmosphere: - Bustling trails filled with trekkers from around the world. Chance to experience Nepalese festivals like Dashain and Tihar. Vibrant local villages come alive with cultural celebrations and traditional dances.
• Best Trekking Routes Open: - High-altitude passes and trails remain snow-free and easily accessible. Popular treks like Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, Langtang Valley, Manaslu Circuit, and Upper Mustang are at their best. It is also the ideal time for peak climbing, including Island Peak, Mera Peak, and Lobuche Peak.
• Rich Biodiversity and Lush Landscapes: - Autumn brings golden forests and vibrant rhododendrons in full bloom. Rivers and waterfalls remain full from the monsoon season, creating stunning scenery. It’s also a great time to spot diverse wildlife in national parks and conservation areas.
• Comfortable Trekking Conditions: - Moderate temperatures—neither too hot nor too cold. Dry trails free from monsoon mud and winter snow. Cozy teahouses and lodges providing warm hospitality and excellent services.
• Best Time for Adventure and Photography: - Crystal-clear skies offer incredible opportunities for photography. Safe and comfortable conditions make it an ideal time for trekking and climbing. It’s also the perfect season for high-altitude adventures, including the Everest Three Passes Trek and Gokyo Valley Trek.

Trekking in Nepal in September

Trekking in Nepal in September is a great choice as it marks the beginning of the autumn trekking season. The monsoon gradually fades away, leaving behind lush greenery, fresh mountain air, and clearer skies. While there may still be some residual rainfall, especially in lower regions, the weather improves significantly, making it one of the best times for trekking. Trails can be muddy and slippery, but the clearer skies enhance the overall experience.

To prepare for trekking in September, pack waterproof gear such as a rain jacket, poncho, and gaiters, wear moisture-wicking layers to stay dry, and check for leeches in lower-altitude jungles, using salt or insect repellent if needed. For the Everest Base Camp Trek, booking flights to and from Lukla in advance is essential due to unpredictable weather. The Manaslu Circuit and Annapurna Circuit Treks are also fantastic options for trekking in Nepal during this time.

Trekking in Nepal in October

October is one of the best months for trekking in Nepal, as it falls in the mid-autumn season, offering stable weather, clear skies, and breathtaking mountain views. It is also the peak trekking season, with lively trails filled with trekkers from around the world.

In October, the weather conditions are excellent, with clear skies and superb visibility as the monsoon has completely faded, leaving behind crisp air and panoramic mountain views. Temperatures are mild and pleasant, with warm days and cool nights in lower altitudes, mild days and chilly nights in mid-altitudes, and cold but bearable nights at higher elevations. There is also a low chance of rain or snow, creating perfect trekking conditions.

With the best trekking conditions in October, you can choose from both popular and off-the-beaten-path treks, such as the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek, the Everest Three High Passes Trek, and other adventurous routes, making it an incredible time to explore Nepal’s trails.

Trekking in Nepal in November 

November is also one of the best months for trekking in Nepal, offering clear skies, stable weather, breathtaking mountain views, and comfortable temperatures. The autumn trekking season is still in full swing, with vibrant trails, but it is slightly less crowded than in October.

The weather in November is dry and stable, with no monsoon rains and minimal snowfall at high altitudes. Visibility is crystal clear, providing spectacular views of the Himalayas. Temperatures are cooler, with pleasant days and cool nights at lower altitudes, chilly mornings and evenings at mid-altitudes, and cold but bearable nights at higher elevations with proper gear. High-altitude passes like Thorong La, Larkya La, and Kongma La remain open, offering good trekking conditions.

With ideal trekking conditions in November, you can choose from both popular and off-the-beaten-path routes, such as the Makalu Base Camp Trek, the Manaslu Tsum Valley Trek, and the Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek, making it a fantastic time to explore Nepal’s trails.
 

Recommended best Autumn Trekking Routes in Nepal

01: Everest Base Camp Trek in Autumn (September, October, November and December)

• Duration: 10-14 days
• Altitude: Up to 5,364 meters (Everest Base Camp) and 5550 miters (Kalapathar)
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
• Transport: Aircraft Flight to Lukla from Kathmandu or Ramechhap and back.
• Highlights: The trek offers breathtaking views of Mount Everest, the vibrant Sherpa culture, diverse wildlife, and iconic landmarks like the Ngarkhang and Kala Patthar, which provide panoramic mountain views. The route is relatively well-established and offers a variety of accommodation options along the way, ensuring comfort throughout the journey.

Everest Base Camp is one of the popular trekking destinations for all trekkers in the world because it is lap of the tallest Mountain of the earth. Many trekkers planning to reach Everest Base Camp for experience wonderful panoramic mountain scenery of the region as well as explore the people’s lifestyle of famous climbers (Sherpa people) in the every Sherpa Village but trekkers are worrying about when is the best time. Everest Base Camp Trek is possible in all trekking season but autumn season will ensure your trek to be perfect because you will be able to see clear views and walk on the clear paths.

We strongly recommend, autumn season is the best time for Everest Base Camp Trek and all trekking routes in the Everest Region. Mainly October and November months are the best month for weather and temperature because temperature is moderate and offers you magnificent views of the wonderful panoramic mountains and landscape. You just need light summer clothes for the warm during the Trekking in autumn to Everest Base camp. Only be sure to pack rain jacket (water/ wind proof), paint and back pack cover for emergency.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Autumn (September, October and November)

• Duration: 7-12 days
• Altitude: Up to 4,130 meters (Annapurna Base Camp)
• Difficulty: Moderate to Difficulty
• Transport: Bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara and back, and a private vehicle to and from Pokhara to Nayapul.
• Highlights: A classic trek with views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machapuchare (Fishtail), and other surrounding peaks and landscape. The trek passes through picturesque villages and dense rhododendron forests.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek is possible throughout the whole years but autumn season is the best time in the year. We have many trekking routes in Nepal and all trekking routes are depending on the region, season, weather, and temperature. Times is the important fact of the vacation and have to choose perfect time for weather and temperature to walk, hike, climb and views of mountain scenery. Annapurna Base Camp Trek is popular and dream holiday for all trekkers and travelers around the world.

Furthermore, the autumn season starts after Monsoon so the weather in the Annapurna Himalaya is nicely warm and clear air and sky for the views. Local autumn months are September, October and November in Nepal. These are the best months for Annapurna Base Camp Trek and most of others trekking routes in Nepal. We highly recommend to all travelers, autumn season is the best time for Annapurna Base Camp Trek in Nepal.

Everest Base Camp via Cho-La Pass Trek in Autumn

Why is autumn the Best Trekking Season in Nepal?

Autumn (September to November) is widely considered the best season for trekking in Nepal due to clear skies, stable weather, stunning mountain views, and comfortable temperatures. The perfect combination of natural beauty, pleasant climate, and cultural experiences makes it an ideal time to explore the Himalayas.

Some Reasons Why Autumn is the Best Trekking Season in Nepal:

Stable and Clear Weather

Autumn follows the monsoon season, resulting in crystal-clear skies with minimal clouds and rainfall, and little to no snowfall. The stable weather conditions reduce the risk of flight cancellations and delays to Lukla and back to Kathmandu or Ramechhap. Days are sunny and warm, while nights are cool and crisp. Additionally, the longer daylight hours compared to winter make it an ideal season for trekking.

Best Mountain Views

The monsoon rains clear away dust and pollution, making the air fresh and providing sharp, unobstructed views of the Himalayas and surrounding landscapes. Snow-covered peaks and vibrant autumn scenery create a paradise for photographers and nature lovers in Nepal.

Comfortable Temperatures

Daytime temperatures at lower altitudes range from 10°C to 20°C, making trekking comfortable. Higher elevations remain cold but manageable, with temperatures dropping to around -10°C to -5°C near high passes above 5,000 meters. The pleasant weather allows trekkers to cover longer distances without experiencing extreme heat or cold.

Dry Trails & Safer Trekking Conditions

Minimal rainfall keeps the trekking trails dry and safe, reducing the risk of landslides and slippery paths. River crossings, bridges, and high-altitude passes remain accessible without excessive water flow. Trekkers can capture stunning photos of rivers, streams, waterfalls, and lakes from close distances, creating a unique trekking experience in the Nepal Himalayas.

Festive Atmosphere in Nepal

Autumn is also a season of major Nepali festivals, such as Dashain (September/October) – Nepal’s biggest festival, celebrated with family gatherings and cultural performances, and Tihar (October/November) – the Festival of Lights, when villages and cities are beautifully decorated. Trekkers can experience authentic local culture while passing through villages celebrating these vibrant festivals.

Chance to see the wild life

If you love trekking and wildlife, autumn is the perfect season to experience both. From the jungles of Chitwan and Bardia to the high-altitude trails of Everest, Annapurna, and Manaslu, Nepal offers diverse wildlife experiences in breathtaking landscapes.

Peak Season with Great Social Experience

Due to these reasons, autumn is the busiest trekking season, with more trekkers on the trails, lively teahouses, and opportunities to meet fellow adventurers from around the world. Well-equipped lodges and teahouses offer better facilities, varied food menus, and warm hospitality.