Nepal In October – Is October Good Time To Visit Nepal?
October month is Nepal is arguably the best month of all to visit Nepal. No surprise the country lures so many tourists in October. This being said, Nepal saw its highest number of tourists for 2022 in October, numbering around 88,582.
Nepal is a great destination to visit in itself, and this saying comes with no second thought. Similarly, in Nepal, October is one of the best months for all activities like trekking, touring, mountaineering, rafting, etc., as the month falls under the autumn season (peak season).
The weather, trekking, and mountaineering condition are great for visiting Nepal in October. Not to mention the country celebrates their main festival in October, i.e., Dashain and Tihar. This celebration makes your stay in Nepal in October a great time to experience Nepalese culture and tradition.
The mighty Himalayas in the upper region of Nepal are at their finest, clearly visible without any blockages, and the climate is mostly sunny and warm. After the monsoon rain in July and autumn ends, the national parks and hillsides are covered in lush greenery. And the greenery is still visible and more beautiful during your Nepal visit in October. On top of that, travelers can deliver to landmarks with great religious and cultural significance. Therefore, if you plan your next trip, head to Nepal in October, the best time to enjoy the trekking and the clear views of the peaks.
Weather in Nepal During October: What to Expect
Nepal’s temperature will be generally mild in October, with relatively stable weather. Likewise, the clear sky makes any trekking location favorable for superb Himalayan views and beautiful vegetation. The high region (Himalayas) is always cold, and the lower region is warm. Still, the daytime temperature in the upper and lower regions will be the most pleasant overall. Let’s know about the October weather in the famous region and places of Nepal below.
Kathmandu Valley
Kathmandu is the first place you will be visiting as the only international airport in the country lies here. The city boasts very pleasant temperatures dung October. Similarly, the city in October features an average maximum daytime temperature of around 22.3°C (72.14°F). Whereas the moderate minimum temper of the same city can be low, lying at 9.5°C (49.1°F). The low temperatures are mainly noted at nighttime.
If we look at the statistics of the Katamandu Valley, the rainfall possibility is moderate, averaging around 48mm (1.9 inches). Likewise, the sun shining hours in October is around 251 hours during the entire month here.
This month features all the great conditions making it the best time to visit Nepal.
Everest Region
Everest region in October month generally experiences clear weather with moderate temperatures. Likewise, the days around the region are usually warmer than the nighttime.
The daytime in the Everest region features around 12°C temperature, whereas the nighttime will be colder, with the temperature hovering around -6°C.
In addition, the region will experience an average wind velocity of 8-11 km/hr (roughly 5-7 mph). Therefore, for a better trekking experience, trekkers should trek during the daytime and rest at their respective accommodations at nighttime.
Also, the Everest region is a Himalayan region, so there is no such thing as too hot even during the most favorable time of the year- October. So you need proper preparation beforehand regarding your clothes and gear.
Annapurna Region
The Annapurna region, too, boasts the most favorable weather conditions in October- suitable for both trekking and mountaineering. The Monsson period’s exit in Nepal marks autumn’s arrival, i.e., October. Hence the month is known as the post-monsoon period here. With this in mind trekking wanting to trek and travel around the Annapurna region via land or helicopter do not have to worry about the occasional rainfall. Still, it’s better to take rain gear with you.
The average temperature of the Annapurna region in October ranges between 20-25 degrees Celsius in the daytime. Likewise, the nighttime weather will be cold, with temperatures ranging between 10-15 degrees. However, the temperature tends to change as you hike higher in the upper region of the Annapurna.
Different hiking destinations in the Annapurna region experience different weather. For example- Ghorepani Poonhill features an around average temperature of 10°C. At the same time, the places like Doban and Chhomrong temple will range between 8 and 5 °C. Likewise, the weather at Annapurna base camp will be colder, with temperatures reaching up to -1 degree.
Langtang Region
October marks the arrival of the post-monsoon period. Thus most of the time, you will not face problems the rainfall brings while trekking or touring. Likewise, the Langtang region in October enjoys the clear blue sky, which provides clear visibility of the mighty Langtang peaks.
The Lantang region experiences departure between 10 to 18 °C in the daytime. The night around the area will still be colder, with the temperature hovering near -10 to -1 °C. Similarly, the lower Langtang region will experience warm weather. From this perspective, the treks in the lower region, like the Helambu trek, boast warmer trekking conditions. But the temperature of Llaurebena Pass in the region will be quite chilly due to its altitude of 4610 meters. At the Llaurebena Pass area, the temperature may range between -1 to 5 °C during the daytime and fall to minus at nighttime.
Pokhara Valley
Pokhara is both the gateway and ending point for almost all Annapurna treks, like the Annapurna circuit, the Annapurna base camp trek, etc. It is the second biggest city after Katmandu in Nepal. Besides being a starting and ending point, the Pokhara Valley is a tourist place.
During October, you can expect the temperature in Pokhara to average around 20.5°C (68.9° F) maximum in the daytime. Likewise, the minimum temperature in the valley typically goes to 7.7°C (45.86°F). The rainfall in Pokhara Valley will be moderate, with 44mm (1.7 inches).
Cultural Festivals and Events in October
Not just for trekking destinations, Nepal is actually a great country for celebrating festivals too. No matter the time you visit here, you are certain to encounter at least one festival the Nepali people celebrate here. Although the people here don’t get many holidays for all the festivals celebrated, they still celebrate the festival with great joy as they hold great importance.
Generally, Buddhist and Hindu festival dates in Nepal change according to the lunar calendar, so it’s almost impossible to predict when the next festival will be celebrated here in advance. Still, some of the common Cultural Festivals and Events that usually fall in October are listed below.
Dashain- First Biggest Festival of Nepal
Dashain, similar to the Chinese Spring Festival, is Nepal’s longest and biggest celebrated annual festival. The festival lasts 15 days and is only celebrated for the goddess Durga’s victory over evil. Likewise, it is the time of the year when a large number of animals, like goats, are sacrificed.
Dashain is the most anticipated festival where almost everyone returns to their homelands for family reunions and celebrations. The festival typically starts in October and so often runs till November. During the Dashain festive time, you will see many colorful skies in the sky and many people playing on a big swing.
Tihar- The 2nd biggest festival in Nepal
Tihar, called Deepawali or Yamapanchak, is a five-day festival celebrated after Dashain. The festival mainly honors the animals, the cow, crow, dog ox, and Goddess Laxmi.
Tihar festival is celebrated on the new moon, generally on the 9th month, called Kartik, also considered the year’s darkest night. There is no international date as it changes yearly, but the festival is normally celebrated in mid-to-late October or early November.
All houses of Nepal are decored with candle Diyas and string lights, which are believed to ward off the darkness of the night. Thus, tihar is also called the festival of light, where all temples, markets, and homes are lit up and decorated to welcome the goddess Laxmi (the goddess of weather).
Pachali Bhairab Jatra
Pachali Bhairab jatra starts in late September or early October on the fourth day of the brightest fortnight. The festival is mainly celebrated by the Newari people of Kathmandu, where they worship and start a procession with a big feast called jatra. The celebration takes place in the Pachali at Patan (Lalitpur), the bank of the Bagmati River. During the worship process, a large large-scale sacrifice is made at the festival
Mani Rimdu
Mani Hindu festival is a popular celebration held among the Sherpa People at the Everest region’s Tengboche, Thame, and Chiwong. The celebration occurs in late October or early November, as the Tibetan calendar times it. Similarly, the festival last for three days featuring masked dances and opera.
The festival mainly celebrates the win of Buddhism over the Bon religion. Likewise, the celebration consists of thirteen acts in a series where religious ceremonialism, drama, and dance are held.
Trekking in Nepal in October
Nepal is a trekkers oyster in October month as it boasts the best features suitable for trekking through the country. Trekking in Nepal, especially in the Himalayan region, is a dream come true for many trekker enthusiasts. The country ranks among one of the best places for trekking in the world. Trekking in Nepal is not only a beautiful experience but also an affordable journey to undertake.
The country sees its almost highest number of trekkers in October. This means you will not be alone while trekking, especially at famous sites. Therefore trekkers who prefer privacy can opt for off-the-beaten-path treks or camping treks like the Upper Dolpo trek, Limi Valley trek, Dhaulagiri Circuit trek, etc., in October here. Some other trekking destinations to choose from region-wise in Nepal are as follows.
Everest Region Trek and Tours
The Everest region, also called the Khumbu region, is where ethnic groups like Sherpa reside. They are often called the Himalayan people, rich in culture and vast mountaineering knowledge.
The Everest region is arguably the most famous trekking destination in the world as it boasts the existence of Everest (the world’s highest peak))at (8848 meters). Along with Everest, its culture, Sherpa villages, and monasteries are equally famous among trekkers. Almost all trekkers visiting the Everest region’s main goal is to reach the Everest base camp or peak. And to complete their trek, October is the best month here.
Everest Base Camp Trek
Difficulty level– Medium
Duration– 12 days
In the lap of the tallest mountain lies the all-time favored destination- Everest base camp Trek. It is a perfect getaway destination to cherish in October. The trek can be completed in 12 days and comprise several destinations starting from Lukla. Among all the destinations en route, Namche Bazaar and Kala Kappathr are the most popular- one bustling with the tourist and another famous for the closest view of Everest Peak.
Everest Three Passes Trek
Difficulty level– Hard
Duration– 19 days
Everest’s three passes trek is all about passing the three high mountain passes in the everest region, i.e., Cho La(5,360m), Kongma La(5,535m), and Renjo La(5385m). The trekking around the passes generally takes place at higher altitudes of the region and revolves around them. Likewise, the everest three passes trek itinerary involves visiting the Everest base camp (5,364m) and Kalapathar (5545m).
Gokyo Lake Trekking
Difficulty level– Moderate to Strenuous
Duration– 11 days
Gokyo Lake featuring sparkling, green, and pristine blue waters, is a serene trekking destination of the Upper Khumbu region. The trek can be completed in 13 days and covers six freshwater bodies, which is also the highest freshwater lake system in the world at 5,000 meters. The main highlight of the trek is climbing Gokyo ri (5357m/17571 ft) and enjoying the panoramas of the Himalayas like Lhotse, Everest, Mt. Cho Oyu, Makalu, etc. You will also get a view of a large glacier called Ngozumpa Glacier.
Pikey Peak Trek
Difficulty level– Moderate
Duration– 13 days
The pikey peak trek route is the same as the Everest base camp trek, but still, it’s less traveled than the other famous destination of the Everest region. It is the least traveled route but has gained much popularity because of Mount Everest’s view from Pikey Peak. Similarly, the trek can be completed in a short timeframe of around nine days, making it a suitable trek for almost all trekkers. The trek lets you explore the area and the largest landscapes of mt everest. Also, you can enjoy the magnificent panoramas of famous mountains like Kanchenjunga, Makalu, Dhaulagiri, etc.
Annapurna Region Trek
The Annapurna region is another famous trekking region in Nepal. It is a dream for most trekkers as it combines some iconic mountains of Nepal, like the massive Annapurna and Machhapuchhare. Similarly, most trek routes have easy access and the best trekking infrastructure. That said, most of the trail headlines are only one or two hours from the Pokhara Valley (gateway to the Annapurna region). The area also boasts the best cultural highlight for the trekkers because of Magars, Gurungs, and Thakali villages en route.
Annapurna region, located in Nepal’s North Western part, has seven trekking destinations. Some of the most popular trekking destinations in the area include Annapurna Circuit Trek -10 Days, Annapurna Panorama Trek– 7 days, Khopra Danda Trek – 11 days), Tilicho Lake with Mesokanto Pass Trek– 16 days, Mardi Himal Trekking– 9 days, Jomsom Muktinath Trek – 11 days, Thorong- La Pass Trek and Fly Out Jomsom– 14 days, and many more. Let’s discuss some of the best treks of the Annapurna region in the short below.
Annapurna Base Camp
Difficulty level– Moderate
Duration– 13 days
Trekking to the ABC in October is one of the most exciting things. Annapurna Base Camp trek is another trek as famous as EBC as it brings you close to the peaks rising above 8000m. The base camp lies in the Annapurna Conservation Area, where you can see many rare animals and plants during your trek. On top of that, the trails leading to the Base camp will be easier and more memorable to hike due to the stable weather conditions and backdrop of mountains like Machhapuchhre, Annapurna, Chulu, Himchuli, and Dhauligiri.
Annapurna Circuit
Difficulty level– Moderate to Strenuous
Duration– 16 days
Annapurna Circut trek is another famous trekking trail of Nepal after ABC and EBC in Nepal. The takes take place in the Annapurna region and take you around the diverse villages of the Himalayan area. It is a 16-day route that begins from Bulbule and takes you to many lush villages like Chyamje, Bagarchhap, Chame, Pisang, Manang, leader, High Camp, Mukti Nath, etc. en route. This trek takes further the trekkers over the Throng la Pass, one of the high passes at 5,416m, and the Tibetan-influenced monasteries and communities.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekking
Difficulty level– Easy
Duration– 10 days
Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is a perfect short and beautiful trek in the Annapurna region. Thousands of trekkers pick Ghorepani Poon Hill every year to get the best sunrise/sunset and snow-capped peaks.
The trek can be completed in 10 days and takes you to the highest point at Poon Hill(3210m). Poon Hill’s vantage viewpoint hosts a magnificent view of over 30 mountains, including prominent peaks like Mt Fishtail (Machhapuchhre), Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, etc. In addition, the trek leads the trees into the indigenous settlements inhabited by ethnic groups like Gurung and Magars. There is so much to explore, from the culture to their lifestyles here.
Annapurna Complete Trek
Difficulty level– Hard
Duration– 23 days
Annapurna’s complete trek, as the name suggests, covers almost all the Annapurna region’s main landmarks. It s the best option for those trekkers who want to explore the complex rather than partwise. Similarly, the trek places inside the Annapurna conservation area, which is also the largest conservation area, covering around 7629 Km square.
The trek covers all the main highlights and destinations of the Region. Poonhill, Ghandruk, Thorong La Pass, Muktinath, Machapuchre base camp, Annapurna base camp, etc. Similarly, you enjoy the full-rage paranoia of the peak Himalayan ranges like Annapurna and Dhaulagiri while trekking. With this trek, you also enjoy the cultural experience and the hospitality you get from visiting the villages of Gurung and Thakali. Besides the two main attractions of the trek are Kali Gandaki Valley (the desert valley ) and Pokhara Valley.
Manaslu Circuit Trek
Difficulty level– Hard
Duration– 16 days
Manaslu Trek is one of the finest trekking destinations in October. The trek takes place within the Manaslu Conservation Area, home to various endangered species of plants and animals.
Mt. Manaslu is the world’s eighth peak at 8163m in the Manaslu region. The main highlight of the 16-day Manaslu trek is reaching the base camp of Mt. Manaslu and Tibetian-influenced villages like Namrung, Lho, Sama Gaun, etc. Similarly, you will cross one of the high passes called Larkya La Pass at 5213m during your Manaslu trek. For a better trekking experience, you can extend your trek to Tsum Valley too. The Manaslu Tsum valley trek can be completed in 21 days and takes you to the village near the Nepal-Tibet border.
Kanchenjunga Trek
Difficulty level– Moderate ** + Strenuous
Duration– 21 days
Kanchenjunga trekking is a remote trekking route. The trekking condition of the Kanchenjunga trek in October mainly suits those trekkers who love remote area hikes. The main highlight of the trek is reaching both Kanchenjunga Base Camps while passing higher the region’s remote villages. Similarly, the trek provides innumerable beauties of the majestic mountains like Kanchenjunga South, Kanchenjunga HimaKirat Chuli, South, Faktanglung, Pathibhara, etc.
Langtang Valley Trek
Difficulty level– Moderate
Duration– 10 days
Langtang Valley is also a delightful destination to visit in October. The valley lies in the Rasuwa District and can be reached within one day from Kathmandu Valley. This trek takes place in the Langtang National Park, so you will cherish the richness of the natural beauty.
Few treks, like Langtang Valley, exist in Nepal, almost allowing you to touch the Himalayas at such high altitudes. The Langtang Valley trek generally takes ten days to complete, But you can extend your trip to Gsainkunda Lake, which further adds extra four days of journey in Langtang Gosaikunda Trek here.
Your Journey starts with a short drive to Syabrubesi(1450m). Continuing the trek, you will stop at various destinations en route, like Lama Hotel, Langtang Village, Kyanjin Gompa, and Tsergo Ri.
Things To Do In October
Nepal boasts huge tourism prospects, and in the peak-trekking seasons like Autumn, the country brings more potential to be visited by global tourists. With the moderate climate, mild temperature, and clear visibility of the beautiful scenes, October becomes the most vibrant timeframe offering visitors everything. While visiting Nepal, there are hundreds of places tourists can visit and numerous things they can do.
For example, if you are in Kathmandu, visit places like Kathmandu Durbar Square, Narayanhiti Palace, Dharahara, Pashupatinath, Swayambhunath, and Boudhanath. Similarly, Pokhara has several alluring destinations like Mahendra Cave, Davis Falls, Shanti Stupa, Sarangkot Hill, and Phewa Lake. Adventurous activities like Paragliding and boating can be done here.
If you are in the lower Southlands of Nepal, places like Lumbini and Chitwan are the best ones to visit. Lumbini is the birthplace of Gautam Buddha, and it has several attractions such as Mayadevi Temple, Pond, and Garden. There are also many meditational centers where tourists can meditate in peace. Chitwan, on the other hand, is the best destination for jungle safari. Chitwan National Park lies in this destination, where tourists can engage in adventurous activities.
Besides, several luxury tours are available in Nepal, such as Helicopter Tours to Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp. They are a unique way to explore the country’s beauty from an aerial view.
Conclusion
Visiting Nepal in October can be more interactive and exciting. With so many festivals in these months, the chance of cultural immersion is high. It also brings a mild and clear climate to the country, offering you perfect views of its beauty. So contact us if you are looking forward to booking your next vacation or tour in Nepal. We are more than excited to offer you the very best package that suits your preferences and meets your expectation.