Best Time to Visit Kathmandu (2026)
Quick Answer
The best time to visit Kathmandu is October, November, March. Kathmandu has four clear seasons. October–November (post-monsoon) offers crystal-clear Himalayan views and perfect trekking. March–May (spring) brings rhododendron blooms and the second-best trekking window. Monsoon (Jun–Sep) is wet but temples glow. Winter is cold but manageable in the valley.
Best Months
Oct – Nov, Mar – May
Daily Budget
$25–$80/day
Currency
NPR (Nepalese Rupee)
Language
Nepali, English
Kathmandu Weather by Month
Jan
Cold, 2–18°C, clear mountain views
Spectacular clear-sky Himalayan visibility
Feb
Cold but clear, 5–20°C
Losar (Tibetan New Year) — colourful celebrations at Boudhanath
Mar
Warming, 10–25°C, rhododendrons bloom
Holi festival and rhododendron blooms on trek routes
Apr
Warm, 15–28°C, spring trekking peak
Baisakh New Year and Nepali spring — city celebrations
May
Warm, pre-monsoon, some haze
Buddha Jayanti at Boudhanath — Nepal's most atmospheric festival
Jun
Monsoon begins, warm rain
Indra Jatra preparations — streets decorated
Jul
Heavy monsoon, 22–28°C, muddy trails
Ghantakarna festival — best avoided for trekking
Aug
Wettest month, flooding risk
Cheapest hotels — temples beautiful in rain
Sep
Monsoon easing, Indra Jatra festival
Indra Jatra — Kumari goddess procession through Kathmandu
Oct
Perfect, 15–25°C, crystal clear
Dashain & Tihar — Nepal's two greatest festivals back-to-back
Nov
Ideal, 10–22°C, best mountain views
Best trekking conditions — post-festival, pre-cold
Dec
Cold, 5–18°C, very clear skies
Christmas trekking — clear views, lower crowds
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kathmandu good for a honeymoon?
Kathmandu is an excellent honeymoon destination. The best time for couples is Oct – Nov, Mar – May when the weather is ideal. Expect to budget around $25–$80/day per day for a comfortable stay.
Can I visit Kathmandu on a budget?
Yes, Kathmandu can be visited on a budget. Average daily costs are $25–$80/day. Budget travellers can find affordable accommodation and food while still experiencing the best the city has to offer.
How many days should I spend in Kathmandu?
We recommend 3-5 days in Kathmandu to see the main attractions. A week gives you time to explore at a relaxed pace and discover hidden gems beyond the tourist trail.
Full Travel Guide
Ready to plan your Kathmandu trip?
Things to do, where to stay, hidden gems and insider tips — all free.
Read the Full Kathmandu Guide →