Trekking in Nepal in May
May is a great time to trek the stunning Himalayan trails of the region. It is the transition month from spring to summer, providing a unique trekking experience. The lush green vegetation due to the summer rains make for a beautiful sight.
Trekking in Nepal in May is the opportunity to experience two seasons of spring and monsoon at the same time. May is the right time for you if you don’t mind a little bit of rain along the trek. The rain is mostly in the evenings and at night and you will get clear views of the snow-capped mountains in the mornings and afternoons.
The humidity is also high during this month. With the right amount of gear and equipment, you can trek the rough terrains in the foothills of Himalayas with ease. The daytime temperature ranges around 25 degrees Celsius and the night time temperature ranges around 8 degrees, which is perfect for trekking.
May offers us the experience of witnessing awe-inspiring views of the snow-capped mountains on the trails. It also provides an opportunity to explore the natural diversity of the tiny Himalayan nation. You can observe the lush vegetation and active wildlife during this time while trekking in Nepal.
May is the time when many mountaineers climb the high mountains of Nepal. During May, you can explore any part of the country with multiple trek options. Read further to know more about the various trekking destinations in Nepal.
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Weather and Temperature in May
Nepal is a geographically diverse country, and the climate varies from one altitude to another. Warm weather gradually builds up in May. The weather doesn’t get too hot, which makes it perfect for trekking during this time.
The average temperature is around 30 degrees Celsius at the hills, and the average nighttime temperature is around 20 degrees. There are some occasional rainfall and thunderstorm as the monsoon is closer. The climate becomes hot and humid, especially in the latter part of May.
The weather, temperature is unpredictable in the higher altitude regions. The mountain passes and the Base Camp has colder climatic conditions typically. The trekking trails can get muddy and slippery as the rain falls.
However, the rainfalls usually occur in the evening and night time which means you can trek freely from early in the morning. You will also get the majestic views of the snow-capped mountains.
The Temperature Range According to Altitudes In May
| Altitude | Maximum temperature | Minimum temperature |
| 1500m | 33°C | 11°C |
| 2000m | 28°C | 9°C |
| 2500m | 25°C | 6°C |
| 3000m | 20°C | 1°C |
| 3500m | 18°C | 0°C |
| 4000m | 17°C | 1°C |
| 4500m | 16°C | -2°C |
| 5000m | 14°C | -4°C |
Food and Accommodation Facilities along the Trails in May
The trekkers can find themselves in a company with a lot of fellow trekkers, as this is the peak season for trekking. The accommodation in the teahouses all along the trail are pretty basic.
You should book early to get the best facilities and accommodations to enjoy your trek hassle-free. You will get a bed, a blanket, and a shared bathroom. Some lodges provide Hot water and Wi-Fi at lower elevations at an added price. The facilities get limited at higher elevations.
You might need to sleep in the dining room with fellow trekkers if the tea houses get packed. The teahouses serve you eggs and toast with tea or coffee for breakfast. For lunch and dinner, the staple diet of “Dal Bhat” includes rice, pulses, spinach, lentils, pickles, and meat.
“Dal Bhat” might not be fancy but is quite a healthy and nutritious diet. Some lodges serve western and continental cuisines with high-end prices at lower elevations. You can carry Protein bars, Snickers, and energy drinks to get energized during the trek.
Some of the Popular Treks to consider in May
Everest Base Camp Trek
Duration: 10-15 Days
Maximum Elevation: Kala Pathar(5,643 m)
Everest Base Camp trek is one of the most popular treks in the world. May is the ideal month to do the Everest Base Camp trek. Furthermore, Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa reached the summit of Mt. Everest for the first time on 29th May 1953.
The warm temperatures of May make for a great trekking experience. You get the chance to explore the highest settlements on earth and explore the unique sherpa culture and lifestyle
Highlights of the Everest Base Camp trek in May:
- Witnessing the vibrant atmosphere of climbers and the Expedition Team at the Base Camp.
- Clear and dry trekking trail with no snow en route to and at the Base Camp
- Fantastic view of the snow-capped mountains
- Exploration of the Sherpa culture and lifestyle
- Beautiful scenario of the rhododendron flowers covering the trails.
- Mani Rimdu, the biggest festival of the Sherpa community in the Everest (Khumbu) region
Annapurna Circuit Trek
Duration: 8-21 Days
Maximum Elevation: Thorong La Pass(5415m)
Annapurna Circuit Trek is a classic trek around the majestic Annapurna Mastiff. The popular is also known as the ‘Annapurna Round Trek.’ The clear and dry trails provide the greatest views of the majestic annapurna and manaslu ranges
You will also be passing through the surreal Thorong La pass while observing the rare and endangered wildlife of the annapurna conservation area.
Highlights of the Annapurna Circuit trek for May
- There is little snow along the trek
- Passing through the surreal Thorong La pass which is also the highest point of the trek
- Amazing views of the highest mountain in the world, including Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
- Cozy and beautiful teahouses and other accommodations
- Fresh meals along the trail prepared by the locals
- Tasting the locally grown apples and delicious apple pies
- Moderate temperatures even in high altitude
- Spotting of rare and endangered wildlife in the Annapurna Conservation Area.
Manaslu Circuit Trek
Duration: 14-24 days
Maximum Elevation: Larke La Pass- 5213m
Manaslu Circuit Trek is a relatively new trek that passes through the restricted region in Nepal. You can trek the Manaslu Circuit Trek in May. The trail can extend upto the Tsum valley Manaslu Trek during May.
The remote valley is a great way to explore Tsumbas. The off the beaten trek is less crowded as compared to the Everest and Annapurna Region.
Highlights of the Manaslu circuit trek in May:
- Exploring the stunning Larke la Pass
- Moderate temperatures of 25 degrees Celsius in the lower regions
- The temperatures do not drop below -5 degrees Celsius, even in the high mountains.
- Spectacular view of the Twin peak mountains
- Less crowded and off the beaten trail as compared to the Everest and Annapurna Region.
- Opportunity to trek the challenging terrain in solitude
- Welcoming locals and their incredible hospitality
Langtang Valley Trek
Duration: 8-12 Days
Maximum Elevation: Kyanjin Ri(4773 m)
The Langtang Valley Trek passes through the beautiful Langtang National Park and the pristine glaciers of the Langtang Valley. The temperatures are warm between 23-30 degrees Celsius. The temperatures drop to 0 degrees Celsius during the nights in the high altitude regions.
Other famous trek destinations in this region are the remote Helambu trek and the holy Gosaikunda Lake trek. For a more challenging trek, you can add the Ganja La Pass on your itinerary.
Highlights of the Langtang valley trek in May
- Perfect for all skill levels including beginners, children, and the elderly
- Opportunity to experience the majestic views of the Himalaya peaks
- Explore the flora and fauna of the Langtang region.
- Clear and amazing views of mountain peaks like Mt. Ganesh, Langtang Lirung, Ganchhenpo, Mt. Manaslu, Naya Kangri, Yala peaks, and Jugal Himal as well.
- May is also perfect for climbing the trekking peak of Kyanjin Ri.
- The trails are dry and clear of snow
Rara Lake Trek
Duration: 6-18 days
Maximum Elevation: Rara lake(2290)
Rara Lake trek passes through the pristine and deepest freshwater lake. You can also explore the Rara National Park. the trek is perfect for beginners and gazing at the beautiful scenario. The clear and dry weather provides us with a great view the high altitude, cobalt blue Rara lake.
Highlights of the trek in May
- Isolated trails with a fewer number of tourists
- Unobstructed views of the beautiful scenery
- Magnificent views of the Northwestern Trans-Himalayan peaks of Nepal
- Exploring the lush green forests
- Wildlife spotting of rare animals and birds including Musk Deer, Himalayan Black Bear, Red Panda, Ghorals, Wild Boar and Thar, and Danphe
- Breeding season of some of the rare animals and birds
Makalu Base Camp Trek
Duration: 18-24 days
Maximum Elevation: Makalu Base Camp(5045m)
Makalu Base Camp Trek is a remote trek. You will trek to the Base Camp of the world’s 5th highest mountain peak in the world- Mt. Makalu. In May, you get the clear and breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountain peaks, including Mt. Makalu ( 8463m), Mt. Chamlang (7319m ), Mt. Baruntse (7129m).
Highlights of makalu Base Camp trek in May:
- Exploring the serene Barun valley on the rhododendrons filled trek
- Trek to the Base Camp of the world’s 5th highest mountain peak in the world- Mt. Makalu
- Opportunity to explore the deep gorges, pristine waterfalls, alpine meadows, and glaciers
- Wildlife spotting of rare wildlife like snow leopard, red panda, Himalayan wolf, Assamese Macaque, and others
- You can also find a wide species of butterflies, reptiles, and birds here
Related treks:
For more information please contact us.
Some Important Tips for Trekking in Nepal in May
- The weather is unpredictable in the high mountains, primarily due to global warming; therefore, you need to prepare for changing weather conditions.
- Get sweat soaking trekking trousers, jackets, and boots.
- Hire a guide and a porter
- Carry a solar charger as charging is expensive in the higher regions
- Get a local sim card for connectivity
- Make sure to pack waterproof rain gear as there might be some occasional rainfall in May.
- Pack some insect repellants and salt which works as a naturally repel mosquitoes
- Carry a reusable water thermos and water purifying tablets
- Book your trip early to get the best accommodations, meals
- Get yourself a cheaper package
- Carry protein bars, Snickers, and energy drinks to get energized for the trek
- Get high-quality sweat-absorbing clothes for trekking the day time
- Get a warm down jacket for the morning
What to Pack for Trekking in Nepal in May
For trekking in May, you must pack sufficiently. Pack lots of warm clothes as the mornings and nights are cold. Some of the essential items you need to pack are as follows:
Clothing
- Trekking boots
- Thermal underwear
- Fleece sweaters
- Waterproof trekking pants/trousers
- Short-sleeved trekking shirts
- Down jacket
- Outer-layer jackets Waterproof/windproof
- Woolen gloves and woolen cap, socks
- Raincoat
Toiletries
- Toilet paper
- Quick-dry towel
- Sanitary pads/ tampons
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Sunscreen
- Soap
- Shampoo
- Sanitizer
- Moisturizer
First Aid
- Diamox tablets
- Anti-nauseant medication
- Water purification tablets
- Rehydration salts
- Mosquito and insect repellent
Things to Consider While Trekking in Nepal in May
Guide and porter
Most of the well-known hiking trails are well marked and traveled like the Everest Base Camp trek, Annapurna circuit trek, etc. you can trek solo as well, but it has its own set of pros and cons.
However, hiring a guide is essential for off the beaten and remote trails as they provide you with local information and knowledge. Besides, a local guide can make you familiar with the local culture so that you won’t offend the locals with your words or actions. A porter can carry your cargo and take the weight of your back.
Fitness
The trekkers must have the right level of fitness for the trek in such high altitude regions. A good training regime with cardiovascular training such as cycling, swimming, hiking, and others is essential. Gradual walking with regular hydration is the key to trek in the high Himalayan region.
Altitude sickness
The Himalayan region is harsh and the trek will take you to an altitude of 4000m and above at all times. The low oxygen levels, air pressure, and the cold climate will affect the altitude sickness as well.
There are various Himalayan Rescue Mission’s health posts along the trails that provides medical services and consultation to the trekkers.
Packing gears and equipment
For trekking in the day time, sweat absorbing clothes is necessary. The cold temperature of the night and the day require a warm jacket and comfortable sleeping bags. The trekking gears like trekking shoes, poles, gloves, sunscreen, and others are also essential.
The weather around the high mountains is unpredictable. Dressing in layers is a good option in such high altitude conditions. You can add or remove layers according to the weather condition. An extra pair of clothing always comes in handy.
Early start
The early start of the trek is essential. You can stay away from the harsh sun and can spend more time exploring the region. The treks require 7-8 hours of trekking each day and starting early as soon as the sun arrives helps to reach the destination before dark.
You can also take breaks in the middle if you need. There might be some unexpected rainfall in the high Himalayas during the trek. Hence arriving at the destination early is always better and safe.
Permits
A TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) permit is necessary for trekking in Nepal. Some regions require both local are permits and TIMS permits, whereas other areas require an only local permits.
Some of the local permits include Sagarmatha National Park Permit, Gauri Shankar National Park Permit, Annapurna conservation area permit
Travel insurance
The travel insurance is another essential aspect to consider. Accidents are quite common in such high Himalayan conditions, and thus travel insurance is extremely important.
There might be some instances where trekkers might need helicopter evacuation. The helicopter ride will cost anywhere between $5000 to $10000. The flight delays and cancellation in the Himalayan region based on the weather are quite common.
Travel insurance will always come handy in such situations. Hence, the travel insurance will help you immensely while trekking the high Himalaya region.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the things to pack for the trek in May?
Breathable rain gear is essential While trekking in May. Besides that, you should pack a good pair of comfortable hiking boots with a firm grip is necessary as the trails get slippery due to rain.
You should pack trekking boots, pants, shirts, shorts for the lower region. A warm fleece is essential for evenings and mornings at the higher elevation. The conditions can get humid during the day
Thus, you should dress in layers so that you can add or remove clothes according to the weather conditions. A sleeping bag can come in handy in the tea houses in the higher altitudes.
2. Will the tea houses provide Accommodation facilities in May?
All accommodation services will provide services in May. Moreover, the accommodations will get quite crowded along the trails.
The tea houses provide the meal. You will get the staple dish of dal bhaat along the trail. Some restaurants at the lower altitudes also offer burgers, pizza, sandwiches, and other continental dishes. Traditional hot noodle soup called thukpa is quite popular, as well.
3. Are Trekking Permits Available in May?
Yes, trekking permits are available all year round, including May. They are available in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
4. Do I Need Travel Insurance for Trekking in May?
Yes, travel insurance is essential for trekking in high altitude conditions. Most trekking packages only cover upto 4000m in altitude. Hence, make sure you have travel insurance that covers above 4000m and above.
The Final Say
Trekking in Nepal in May is an excellent experience with the proper amount of gears and equipment. The trails are easier to access in May, and the warmer climate makes it perfect for trekking.
The lush green vegetation and the fresh air after the rain is the highlight of the trek. The tea houses, lodges, and accommodation are easily available along the trail. Hence, trekking in Nepal may is a great experience.
Related treks:
For more information please contact us.