Trekking in Nepal in March
March is one of the best months for trekking in Nepal. It is the beginning of Spring which is one of the two best trekking seasons in Nepal. Since March comes after the winter season, you will find chilly weather, especially in higher elevations. However, it is warm along lower region trails and snow deposited gets melted as well.
March comes with beautiful nature, moderate climate, and temperature. Nature lovers will love this trek as they can observe scenic views of snow-capped mountains. Trekking in Nepal in March also provides you with an opportunity to spot the rare and endangered wildlife of the region.
Moreover, the wildflowers along trails like Rhododendron bloom all over hills making it one of the attractions of trekking in March. There are traditional village settlements that provide you a cultural insight into the region. You can rejoice in the beauty of nature and freshness in the air.
Furthermore, you can have great fun and make exciting memories trekking magical landscapes in March. Read on to know more about trekking in Nepal in March and other relevant information in detail.
Temperature and Weather Conditions for Trekking in Nepal in March
March is the tail of winter and the beginning of the spring season in Nepal. During March the air is drier and the clear sky is dotted with clouds. March is still cold. Snowfall can continue in the higher elevations till mid-March.
The high mountains are still covered in blankets of snow. Snow at the lower altitudes begins to melt. The tiny sprouts and buds bring the valleys back to greenery and life. Also, the blossoms of Spring flowers fill the forested trails.
Skies are generally clear during the morning and evening. You can see amazing views of the surrounding and distant scenarios in the morning. The sunrise and sunset views are beautiful. But the afternoon sky can be cloudy sometimes. Occasional thunderstorms, hail showers, and rain can occur in March.
As the winter passes by, days become warmer and longer. March starts with 7 hours of daylight (appx.). Warm and longer days are idle for trekking. You shouldn’t hurry to reach your destination. You can walk slowly enjoying the surroundings.
Temperatures start to increase gradually. In the Himalayan region, temperatures will drop below 0 during mornings and evenings. The daytime temperature in Kathmandu valley averages around 23°C. The temperature can vary from 26°C to 20°C in March.
In the daytime, even the upper hills and lower mountains have mild temperatures. This makes the Himalayan trek more comfortable. March is the month when the daytime and nighttime temperatures have wide variations.
Temperature falls below freezing so quickly at high altitudes regions. Always expect the weather and temperature at the base camp and passes to be extreme.
Why Trekking in Nepal in March?
Clear Weather
During March, the sky is clear and the weather remains stable for a long, even in the Himalayas. Thus, the clear weather makes trekking in March comfortable. The clear weather encourages the perfect views of the surrounding and distant landscapes.
Encounter with Mountaineers
March is a climbing season. So, while trekking in Nepal in March, you may encounter several mountaineers. Moreover, you can share your experiences with them and hear about their stories on mountaineering.
Celebrate Holi, Ghode Jatra, and Chaite Dashain
In March Nepalese people celebrate several festivals like Holi, Ghode Jatra, and Chaite Dashain. Holi is the festival of colors. Ghode Jatra is the festival where Horses perform various stunts. Chaite Dashain is a big festival of Hindus.
Furthermore, the celebration of the festival is rejoicing. You can be a part of the festivals while trekking in Nepal in March.
Vegetation and Wildlife
March is the tail of winter. March uncovers the snow blankets over the beautiful valleys at the Himalayas. Also, the plants and animals rejuvenate from their long winter sleep. More wildlife and birds are active in March due to favorable temperature.
Clear Views of the Mountains
The mountains are clearly visible in March. The clear atmosphere and blue sky add beautiful backgrounds to the Himalayan panoramas. Besides, the white snowy peaks glistening in sun rays is an amazing view.
Top 10 Destinations for Trekking in Nepal in March
Everest Base Camp Trekking in Nepal in March
Mount Everest (8848 meters), the tallest mountain on earth, is the dream destination of many mountaineers. It is a great trekking destination as well with amazing foothills that serve as trails. Also, trekkers will generally fly to Tenzing Hillary Airport in Lukla from where they will start their trek to Everest Base Camp. Moreover, the awe-inspiring views of snow-capped mountains including Mt. Everest, Kongde RI, Thamserku, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Nuptse, and others will enchant you.
The Everest Base Camp trek is the greatest adventure in the Himalayas. A basic fitness level is essential to complete this spectacular trek. Similarly, the trek also allows you to observe the culture, heritage, and lifestyle of the local Sherpa community. There are various Buddhist prayer flags, mani walls, and Buddhist monasteries along trails.
Various viewpoints like Kalapatthar (5,545 meters) provide you with incredible sunrise and sunset views overlooking the Himalayan landscape. In fact, the trek is ideal for all skill levels whether you are just a beginner or an expert. The trail passes through settlements of Lukla, Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, and Gorak Shep, before arriving at Everest Base Camp.
Besides that, Trekkers can also take various alternative routes through Chola and Renjo la pass and Gokyo valley. These routes are generally more channeling than the regular Everest base camp trek route. Likewise, trekkers need to acclimatize and hydrate at regular intervals along the trail. Hence, these various adventures make Everest Base Camp trek one of the most popular treks in the world.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a much-loved trek in the western region of Nepal. The trek passes through Annapurna Sanctuary and its incredible natural landscapes. Moreover, ABC trek is one of the first trek routes opened in Nepal and has been open for trekking for more than 50 years.
There are many lodges and tea houses along the trail which makes it quite popular among trekkers. There are various viewpoints along the trail that allows you to observe gorgeous Himalayan sunrise along with various snow-capped peaks including Mt. Annapurna I-IV, Machapuchhre, Annapurna South, and others.
We will also pass through Machapuchare Base Camp. The trekkers taking this stunning trek require a basic level of fitness and stamina. Proper training before the start of the trek is essential. The rugged and steep trails of this trek are difficult for first-time trekkers.
Moreover, the rhododendron and oak forested trails are other highlights of the ABC trek. The trails of this trek also pass through settlements of the Gurung and Magar community. Trekkers can also observe snow-capped mountains including Dhaulagiri, Mt. Annapurna, Gangapurna, Mardi Himal, Machhapuchhre, and others.
The trail starts from Nayapul where you can reach by bus or private vehicle. There are various hot springs along the trail that help you relax after a taxing trek. Especially, trekkers can make itinerary flexible by taking side trips, reducing or extending days. Hence, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the most loved and trekking paths in the world.
Manaslu Circuit Trek
Manaslu Circuit trek is an exciting remote trek in Nepal. This trek is an incredible adventure in the mountains, with natural and cultural diversity. The trekkers can observe snow-capped mountains including Ganesh Himal (7319m), Himal Chuli (7893m), Mt. Manaslu Himal (8153m), Shringi Himal (7187m), and others.
In fact, Manaslu the eighth highest in the world is 64 kilometers east of Annapurna. Likewise, the Manaslu region was only recently opened for trekking in 1992 and is yet to get explored to the full extent. Moreover, Manaslu Base Camp Trek is a restricted area trek hence, special permits are essential for trek.
Moreover, the trek also passes through Tibetan influenced settlements and you can learn about their culture, heritage, and lifestyle. Also, you can visit ancient Buddhist monasteries and other religious landmarks along the trail. Therefore, the trek is quite challenging and requires strenuous walking for a long duration.
In sum, you will also need to cross Larke La pass (5213m) which is a high mountain pass hence a good training routine is essential. Manaslu is an off-the-beat trek hence few teahouses provide food and accommodation facilities. Hence, you might have to camp in certain places as well.
Furthermore, this stunning trek will take you away from the crowded trails of other mainstream treks in the region. Overall, Manaslu base camp trek is a quiet off beaten trekking adventure in the Himalayan foothills.
Kanchenjunga Base Camp Treks
In particular, Kanchenjunga Base camp Trek is a long duration remote region trek in the foothills of the third-highest mountain in the world, Mt. Kanchenjunga (8586m). The trek passes through the Kanchenjunga Conservation area where you can observe rare and endangered flora and fauna and wildlife of the region.
The breathtaking views of Mt. Everest (8848 m), Makalu (8463m), Lhotse (8414m), Kanchenjunga (8586m), and others. The trail starts from Suketar and we arrive at both the north base camp at Pangpema and the South Base Camp of Kanchenjunga. It takes around 28 days to complete this journey.
Moreover, you can also customize the itinerary by adding acclimatization days or reducing it based on your requirements. The trekkers pass through lush forests, rivers, waterfalls, grasslands, and glaciers. The biodiversity of the region will allow you to spot and observe some rare wildlife species including musk deer, Snow Leopard, and others.
Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek trails also pass through ancient traditional settlements and villages. These villages have the majority of people from Rai and the Limbu ethnicity. Also, they have their own unique culture, tradition, and lifestyle. You might have to stay in tented camps at various points along the trail. Overall, the Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek is one of best off the beaten adventure.
Langtang Gosaikunda Trek
Langtang Gosaikunda trek is another great trekking destination. It is just 19 miles away from the city. The Langtang and Gosaikunda Holy Lake trekking takes you to two incredible places which makes it one of the best treks in Nepal. You can trek quietly as it is an off beaten trek and thus you can trek in solitude.
Syabrubesi is the starting point and it ends at Dhunche which takes around 13 days to complete. The Langtang Gosaikunda trekking route provides you incredible views of the snow-capped mountains of the Langtang range. You can also climb Tsergo Ri peak (5,000 m) from where you can observe the beautiful views of mountains on both the Nepali and Tibetan sides.
In addition, Langtang Valley is also known for its unique Tibetan culture and lifestyle. Gosaikunda Lake is a holy place for both Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims. This lake is one of the most beautiful lakes that remains frozen most of the time of year. The Langtang Gosaikunda Helambu Trek is another alternative option that you can take if you want to explore the complete region.
Moreover, it will allow you to observe all the hidden beauties of the Langtang region. Similarly, Langtang valley is in close distance to the capital of Kathmandu which makes it quite popular among trekkers. Moreover, Langtang valley trekking trails were majorly destroyed in the massive earthquake of April 25, 2015. However, it has since been renovated and teahouses along trails have started operations. It is safe and ideal for all trekkers.
Upper Mustang Trek
Upper Mustang Trek is an all-season trek as it lies in a rain shadow area. There is less rainfall even in the monsoon season which makes it ideal for trekking all year round. It passes through the ancient Himalayan kingdom located beyond the Himalayas and is also known as the forbidden kingdom of Nepal.
Trekking in this region also requires a restricted trekking permit. Upper Mustang Trek is famous for its ancient culture and lifestyle. You can find scattered settlements with stone houses. Tibetan Buddhism culture is quite evident in the lifestyle and tradition of local people.
Upper Mustang Trek passes through the desert barren landscape and steep trails. The ancient salt caravan route also passes through high mountain passes of Lo Manthang (3,950 m). There are deep gorges, mystical caves, and ancient temples and monasteries along the trail. The Upper Mustang region remains covered in Mystical giant white walls.
You can visit Nyamook Gompa, Namgyal Gompa, Tengar village, and others. You can also learn about and explore Lobas and Tibetan Buddhism culture. This exciting trek is a great adventure in remote parts of Nepal. Trekkers will require a special permit to enter this forbidden kingdom and land beyond the Himalayas. Overall, the Upper Mustang trek is one of the unique and adventurous treks in Nepal.
Annapurna Circuit Trek
The Annapurna Circuit trek is a challenging trek that lets you explore around Annapurna sanctuary and its surrounding region. The trek passes through diverse landscapes in the foothills of the Annapurna massif range. The trek also passes through Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters.
You can observe beautiful views of snow-capped mountains including Mt. Annapurna I, Mt. Dhaulagiri, Mt. Machapuchare, and Mt. Gangapurna, Mt. Manaslu, and others from various viewpoints along the trail. There are serene waterfalls, lush forests, and other settlements of the Magar, and Gurung community along the trail.
Annapurna circuit trek is a great trekking destination that remains loved by trekkers all around the world. This is because it has incredible geographical diversity and rich wildlife. You can also spot rare and endangered wildlife including snow leopard, Himalayan Tahr, Danfe, and others. You will stay at cozy tea houses along trails and have local Nepalese meals of Dal Bhaat along your journey.
Trekkers can also relax at Jhinu Danda hot springs after a taxing trekking adventure. Some itineraries also include relaxing and sightseeing in the lake city of Pokhara. You can customize your itinerary by adding or removing the days in your itinerary. You can also acclimatize extra days in case you get altitude sickness along the trail. Hence, the Annapurna circuit trek is one of the best treks in Nepal.
Ghorepani Poonhill trek
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is a beautiful trek in the Annapurna region of Nepal. It is a short and easy trek that provides you with an incredible adventure in a short amount of time. You will pass through lush rhododendron forests, green hills, terraced farms, and traditional beautiful settlements.The trails of this trek provide you with majestic views of snow-capped mountains including the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The gorgeous views of sunrise and sunset view from Poonhill is a highlight of this trek. It provides you 360-degree views of the Himalayas around the region.
This short trek is great in March as you can find wildflowers including rhododendron flowers blooming all over trails. This is one of the best short treks in Nepal and a great beginners trek. Food and accommodations services in tea houses tend to get packed quickly hence you should book in advance.
March is a great time to take this trek as it is the start of the spring season and you can experience incredible flora and fauna in the region. It is a nature’s delight and trekkers can get the best view of golden sunrise and sunset from various scenic points including Poonhill. Hence, Ghorepani Poonhill trek is one of the best destinations for trekking in Nepal in March.
Upper Dolpo trek
Upper Dolpo trek is a unique trek in the ancient Upper Dolpo region. It is an adventurous trek that passes through Karnali in the north-western region of Nepal. The Dolpo trek also takes you to Shey Phoksundo National Park, which is the biggest national park in Nepal.
There is rich biodiversity with rare and endangered flora and fauna including Yarshagumba. You will get enchanting views of Kanjirowa, Mt. Dhaulagiri, Siapal, Api, and others. Trekkers also need to cross three high altitude mountain passes including Shey La (5,000 m), Nagdalo La (5,350 m), and Jeng La (5,110 m). Further, you will trek through desert-like landscapes in the upper Dolpo region.
You can also visit Shey Gompa Monastery and serene Phoksundo Lake (3,600 m) along the trail. This challenging trek rewards you with outstanding views of mountain landscapes and ancient Tibetan influenced culture. Trekkers can also observe and explore landscapes that are quite a contrast when compared to other parts of the country.
Furthermore, March is a great time to trek to Upper Dolpo as it comes after the winter season. You will get stable weather conditions and temperatures that are ideal for trekking. However, you should pack well with warm and insulating clothes as it is a high altitude trek.
Nar Phu Valley trek
Nar Phu Valley Trekking in the Annapurna region is a unique trekking adventure that takes you to remote villages and settlements. Jagat is the starting point of the trek as it follows the Annapurna Circuit trail before separating from Koto to arrive at Nar Phu Valley.
There are well-marked trails as it passes through religious sites and Tibetan villages. Furthermore, trekkers will also pass the Kang La Pass (5,315 m) which provides you with magnificent views of Mt. Annapurna II (7,937 m), Tilicho Peak (7,134 m), Mt. Gangapurna (7,445 m).
Phu valley is also a sacred Buddhist pilgrimage and many people come to pay their respect. You can visit Tashi Lakhnag Gompa and get blessed by Lama Karma Sonam Rimpoche. You will get to learn about the culture, tradition, and lifestyle of the local community. Nar Phu Valley Trek is a great trek that requires incredible physical fitness.
March in spring is a perfect trekking time for this exciting trek. It is the start of trekking season in Nepal and this trek will provide you with a great offbeat adventure away from crowded trails.
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Accommodation and Food for Trekking in Nepal in March
March is a popular time for trekking in Nepal. Most of the popular trekking destinations start seeing quite a number of trekkers in March. The traffic isn’t as much as in Autumn, yet is high.
You shouldn’t really worry about finding accommodation in March.
The modes of accommodation differ at different trekking destinations. At some places, you will be accommodating at teahouses. At some places, you’ll find basic lodges to even luxury hotels.
In fact, if you are trekking to the mountains, there are some trekking routes with very few numbers of teahouses. While trekking to such destinations in March, early booking is always the best thing.
Hiring a Guide/ Porter for Trekking in Nepal in March
There are some restricted trekking destinations in Nepal like Manaslu Circuit Trek. If you want to trek in such areas, you must trek with an experienced guide or a porter.
For other trekking destinations, hiring a guide and/or a porter is always optional. Hiring a guide is always beneficial. They will help you and assist you regarding the entire trek and planning. Also, hiring them ensures your personal safety as well.
Lots of trekkers feel exhausted during longer lengths. Hire a porter who will help you carry your loads. Hence, let a professional guide you. Hiring a porter along with a guide for longer treks is necessary.
If you want a guide or a porter, Contact us. We will help you arrange registered and experienced guides and porters.
Altitude Sickness while Trekking in Nepal in March
The risk of Altitude Sickness is always there in the high altitude treks in all seasons. Similarly, there are possibilities of getting altitude sickness during Everest Region Trek, Tilicho Lake Trek, Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek, and other high altitude treks in Nepal.
If you are doing high altitude treks in March, make sure you take the necessary precautions. Trek slowly, don’t get exhausted. Make a proper acclimatization schedule and don’t skip them.
Train your body well. Also, the training should focus on physical strengthening, cardiovascular exercises, and proper dietary patterns. Therefore, eat a healthy diet on the trek. Besides, maintain a steady pace of walk while trekking.
Getting Trekking Permits for Trekking in Nepal in March
You cannot trek to any of the trekking destinations in Nepal without getting trekking permits. Likewise, all the trekking trails in Nepal are open for trekking in March.
Trekking in different parts of the country requires different trekking permits. For restricted areas, you will need restricted area permits. In addition, to trek into national parks and conservation areas, you will need conservation area permits. Similarly, there are other permits like TIMS Card.
Which trekking destination are you planning to go to? Do not worry about obtaining the necessary permits. ALso, we can arrange them for you. Contact Us.
If you want to get them by yourself, you can get most of the trekking permits at the Nepal Tourism Board, Kathmandu.
General Tips on March Trekking in Nepal
- Take Proper Gear and Equipment. Pack light, but include every essential. Research on Essential Gears for Trekking in Nepal in March.
- Hydrate yourself properly. Drink plenty of water and rehydrating salts, if you have any.
- Start your trek early. Also, Book earlier for accommodations for high altitude and remote area treks.
- Build up your mental and physical strength before you go. You can practice various exercises and training depending on the trek difficulty.
- Be sure you spare some free days. March is the best time to go. But unpredictable weather and accidental injuries can happen.
The Final Say
In conclusion, March is the first month of Spring which is the trekking season in Nepal. Likewise, Weather remains chilly along trails especially during mornings and nights but daytime weather and temperature are quite moderate. Trekking in Nepal in March allows you to observe incredible views of snow-capped mountains in stable weather conditions.
Moreover, the wildflowers like rhododendron bloom all over hills making it a scenic vista. Also. you can also go on a cultural exploration of the region along with its heritage, tradition, and lifestyle. You can experience freshness in the air and be in awe of the beauty of nature. Overall, we hope you learned about trekking in Nepal in March, the best trekking destinations, and other information.