Summer in Nepal

The tiny, landlocked country of Nepal enchants visitors with its UNESCO World Heritage Sites and jaw-dropping mountain landscapes. The birthplace of Buddha and home of Mount Everest beckons you to discover masked dancers in the Kathmandu Valley, Chitwan's jungles, and Pokhara's lakeside pursuits. Summer in Nepal will leave you with everlasting memories. 

Why should I visit Nepal in summer?

Summer in Nepal is quieter than other months, so you'll enjoy more time and space to yourselves, with fewer travelers on the trekking routes and at mountain lodges. Summer rain showers produce lush green hills, fast-flowing rivers, and teasing views of mountain peaks hiding between clouds. Spectacular sunsets, seasonal festivals, and fascinating culture make summer in Nepal an attractive proposition. 

Best things to do in Nepal in summer

Whether it's centuries-old temples in the capital of Kathmandu, adventure in Mustang's arid deserts, or fascinating festivals that are scenes of color and energy, Nepal amazes at every turn. Here's some top picks for things to do in Nepal in summer.

Go trekking in Mustang

If you're looking to avoid summer rains, trek in the semi-independent, arid Mustang region, which borders Tibet and sits in the shadow of the Himalayas. On a hiking trip, don't miss the stunning geography of the Kali Gandaki Gorge, or a visit to the revered Muktinath Temple, one of the country's holiest spots for Buddhists and Hindus.

Attend the Yarthung Horse Festival

This horse riding festival takes place in July in the Manang district. Horses are decorated with colorful ribbons, and locals gather to socialize, feast, and play traditional music. This is one of the few traditional small festivals remaining in the country, so don’t miss a chance to join in.

Join the Gai Jatra celebrations

Kathmandu's Gai Jatra festival commemorates ancestors in the Newar community. Processions occur throughout the city as participants joyfully honor their loved ones. This is an opportunity to see all sorts of traditions, including Nepalese masked dancers.

Get cultural in the capital

The Kathmandu Valley is home to numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the royal squares in Basantapur, Bhaktapur, and Patan. Burn butter lamps, buy colorful Buddhist prayer flags, and walk around the stately Boudhanath Stupa. Or encounter the monkeys at the hilltop Swayambhunath complex, which enjoys mesmerizing views at dusk.

Seek out wildlife in Chitwan National Park

A bus journey from Kathmandu will take you straight to Sauraha, the village that acts as a gateway to the finest national park in the country. In Chitwan, jeep safaris take visitors through the surrounding jungle, where you might spot black bears, deer, and alligators basking along the river banks. If you’re really lucky, you might see rhinos, too. 

What’s the weather like in Nepal in summer?

Summer in Nepal runs from May through September. Temperatures can soar in the southern regions bordering India, so dress appropriately. Boots are highly recommended while hiking to protect your feet. If you're trekking through northern Nepal, carry essentials like sunscreen and lip balm, wear high-quality sunglasses, and carry a refillable water bottle.