2 Jul 2024 Himalaya Trip
This blog will provide all the essential information about the Top 5 Monsoon Treks In Nepal. This Himalayan nation offers you with the numerous trekking destinations. Despite Autumn and Spring being the most preferred trekking seasons, there are several trekking trails where you can trek during the Monsoon or summer. These quieter and less crowded routes offer peaceful trekking in Nepal during the monsoon season. Nepal is a top destination for adventure lovers, especially trekkers. It’s known for its stunning mountains, making trekking very popular.
Trekking in Nepal’s monsoon season has unique benefits despite the heavy rains. The trails are quieter, offering a serene trekking experience away from the usual crowds. Many treks in Nepal lie in the rain shadow area and have very little rainfall during the monsoon months. The temperature in the Himalayas will be suitable for trekking.
You might need clarification about whether to trek in Nepal during the Monsoon season. We recommend these five places where you can hike during the Summer months. Book your tour through a trustworthy tour operator and hire an experienced guide for a safe and memorable trekking experience.
Why should you trek in Monsoon?
- Live in the Desert and want to see green scenery: If you live in the desert and want to see green scenery like the rainy season, the summer is the right time for you. The Himalayan landscapes are lush and vibrant, with cascading waterfalls and blooming wildflowers.
- Avoid the Peak season big crowd: If you do not have time in peak season (Spring and Autumn) or want to avoid the big crowd of peak season, you can visit Nepal for the summer season (June, July, August). You can easily trek during the summer months and enjoy a peaceful outing.
- Like the rainy season: If you love rain, you should trek in summer. The unpredictable weather, rains, and clouds while you trek in the Himalayas are something you will cherish forever.
- Special discount: Since it is off-season, you can expect a special discount while trekking in Nepal. The tour operators will come up with several tour packages during this period.
- Rain Shadow Area: The mountain regions of Nepal mainly lie in the rain shadow area. This region receives very little rainfall during the Monsoon season.
- The weather is still evident, and you can witness the beautiful view of the Himalayas in Nepal.
- It will be easy and comfortable for you to trek in the Himalayas during the Monsoon season as it is the off-season. The trials will be less crowded, and you will have better accommodation options during the monsoon months.
5 Best Moonsoon Treks in Nepal
Suppose you have a holiday from work and plan to go on treks in Monsoon; we have the top 5 recommended trekking packages for you. They are;
- Nar Phu Valley Trek
- Annapurna Circuit Trek
- Upper Mustang Trek
- Phaplu Everest Base Camp Trek
- Lower Dolpo Trek
Nar Phu Valley Trek
- Grade: 4
- Highest point: 5320m ( Kangla Pass )
- No. of Days: 12 Days
- Trek type: Lodge
Nar Phu Valley Trek is one of Nepal’s most restricted, adventurous, and less touristic area treks. You will explore beautiful landscapes, Buddhist mane walls, stupas, Monasteries, and Nar and Phu villages with the adventure Kangla pass 5320m and Annapurna Himalayas view while you trek in this region. You will need a special permit to trek in this region. If you want to visit the off-the-beaten-track in the Annapurna region, this trek is the one.
Highlights of Nar Phu Valley Trek
- Visit the highest lake in the world, Tilicho Lake
- Observe the unique Tibetan culture at Nar and Phu villages
- Explore the Annapurna’s most remote region
- Cross high-altitude passes like Kang-La Pass and Thorong La Pass
- Witness the majestic views of the mountains, like Annapurna, Manaslu, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchre, etc.
Annapurna Circuit Trek
- Grade: 4
- Highest point: 5416m ( Thorong La Pass )
- No. of Days: 10 Days
- Trek type: Lodge
Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of the most popular treks in the world. You will have a beautiful Annapurna Himalayas view, the world’s most significant pass, Thorong la 5416m, Chame, Pisang, Manang, Muktinath, Jomsom, etc., while you trek in this region. This trek begins at the low foothills, around 600 meters, and reaches an altitude of 5400 meters. This trail is a perfect blend where you can equally experience the beauty of Nepal’s Hilly and Himalayan regions. It also offers one of the longest trekking trials in Nepal.
Highlights of Annapurna Circuit Trek
- Witness the majestic views of the mountains of the Annapurna region.
- Experience the Hindu and Tibetan Buddhist cultures of the local people.
- Observe the Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world.
- Visit the Muktinath Temple, a sacred place for Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims.
- Cross the Thorong La Pass at 5400 meters.
Upper Mustang Trek
- Grade: 3
- Highest point: 4230 m (Marang La Pass)
- No. of Days: 15 Days
- Trek type: Lodge
Upper Mustang Trek is perfect for visiting the oldest Buddhist monasteries, historic caves, and attractive landscapes. Tsarang Monastery, Lo-Manthang, Choser Cave, Chungsi Cave, Dho, Yara Ghara, and Ghar Gompa are the major attractions of this trek. Since this region lies in the rain shadow area, you can easily trek to the Upper Mustang region during summer.
Highlights of Upper Mustang Trek
- Witness the majestic beauty of Annapurna mountain ranges.
- Visit Lo Manthang and gain valuable insights into the place’s history
- Visit the king’s palace at Lo Manthang
- Experience the unique Tibetan Buddhist culture of the local people
- Feel the spiritual walk through several Gompas, chortens, prayer flags, and caves.
- Visit the historic Luri Gompa
Phaplu Everest Base Camp Trek
- Grade: 4
- Highest point: 5550m ( Kala Patthar )
- No. of Days: 16 Days
- Trek type: Lodge
Suppose you want to go to Phapu Everest Base Camp Trek to avoid the big crowd of the primary season. We recommend you do this trek in summer or monsoon. There are fewer chances to fly from Kathmandu to Lukla during this trek. This trek allows you to experience the panoramic views of the mountains of the Khumbu region. You will drive from Phaplu and trek to Everest Base Camp, back to Phaplu, and then back to Kathmandu.
Highlights of Phaplu Everest Base Camp Trek
- Witness the world’s highest peak, Mt Everest, from its base.
- Witness the panoramic views of the mountains of the Khumbu region.
- Experience the unique Buddhist culture of the Sherpa people.
- Visit the historic Tengboche monastery.
- Trek through the Sagarmatha National Park and encounter several Flora and Fauna.
- Walk alongside the Khumbu Glacier.
- Visit the bustling town of Namche Bazaar.
Lower Dolpo Trek
- Grade: 5
- Highest point: 5169m ( Bagala Pass )
- No. of Days: 18 Days
- Trek type: Lodge/ tent camp
Lower Dolpo Trek is another summer trek in Nepal. The trek is a rain shadow area. It is the right time to do this trek. You can witness this region’s unique flora and fauna while trekking there. This trek is one of the least explored regions as it remains a restricted area with limited access. You can observe the unique Bon Po culture while trekking in this region. It offers you the chance to trek on the off-beaten trails.
Besides the above package, we have a short trek around Kathmandu and Pokhara, Upper Dolpo Trek. All the tours are available for you.
Highlights of Lower Dolpo Trek
- Trek to one of the most remote areas of Nepal.
- Visit the Shey Phoksundo Lake, the deepest lake in Nepal.
- Trek through the Shey Phoksundo Lake and encounter several wild habitats of that region.
- Observe the lifestyle of people living in the remote Himalayas.
- Experience the unique Tibetan Buddhist culture of the local people.
Packing list for winter trek
If you plan a trek or tour to Nepal during the Monsoon season, we recommend you bring waterproof and warm clothes as you will be exploring the Himalayan nation. Here are some of the packing lists that you should carry while you tour or trek in Nepal.
- Warm hat
- Snow or sunglass
- Warm or down jackets
- Long-sleeved
- Thermal set
- Waterproof jacket
- Water or windproof trousers
- Warm sucks
- Trekking shoes
- Globes
- Sunblock
- Water bottle
- Flashlight
- Quick dry towel
- Backpack
- Rain poncho
Challenges of Monsoon trek in Nepal
The Summer season in Nepal comes with the Monsoon months. It rains heavily during this period. If you’re planning to trek in the monsoon season, you need to be cautious about the challenges you will encounter during this trek. The weather during the monsoon months is unpredictable. The weather can change in no time and can receive heavy rainfall. The trails become slippery, making it challenging to trek. Leeches and worms might trouble you as it is obvious to catch them in the trekking trials.
Natural calamities like landslides, floods, etc., might make your trek risky. You might get stranded in the middle, making it challenging to rescue in case of any emergencies. However, you can check the weather conditions of the region you’re trekking in and enjoy a safe and sound trip.
Weather during Monsoon season in Nepal
The monsoon season in Nepal occurs from June to September. During this period, temperatures in the lower regions in the Hilly area range from 20°C to 35°C. The heavy rainfall can cause landslides and flooding, making your travel difficult. Trekkers should be cautious as trails can be slippery, and visibility is often poor during summer.
In the Himalayas, the monsoon season brings cooler temperatures, ranging from 10°C to 20°C. The higher elevations experience heavy rain and occasional snow. Since many trekking trails in the Himalayas lie in the rain shadow, trekking the Himalayas during the monsoon is possible. Moreover, the lush green landscapes and fewer crowds can offer a unique experience for prepared adventurers.
Tips for Monsoon Trekking in Nepal
Trekking in the Himalayan regions in Nepal during the monsoon season presents you with several challenges. You must be cautious about several things to ensure a safe and comfortable trekking. Here are some tips to ease you while you trek during the monsoon months.
- Firstly, you must understand the weather conditions of the place you’re about to trek in.
- It would be best to leave for the trek early in the morning, an excellent way to avoid rainfall. Even if there are any delays, it will help you cover the total distance within that day.
- Wait a few hours after rainfall, which will help you witness the best Himalayas views.
- Bring good trekking gear, including raincoats, Umbrellas, poles, and waterproof hiking shoes/boots.
- Do not trek alone. Hire an experienced guide.
- Stay hydrated and opt for high-calorie food during your trek.
- Stay updated about the weather conditions before and during the trek.
Conclusion
Nepal’s top five monsoon treks will offer you unique and rewarding trekking experiences. Trails like the Upper Mustang, Annapurna Circuit, Lower Dolpa, Phaplu Everest Base Camp, and Nar Phu Valley will showcase those regions’ stunning landscapes, lush greenery, and vibrant cultures. Despite the challenges of rain and slippery paths, these treks provide solitude and breathtaking views. You will need proper preparation and a flexible itinerary for a safe and enjoyable trekking experience during the monsoon season.
FAQs
Can you hike Everest Base Camp in the Monsoon?
Yes, you can hike to Everest Base Camp in the Monsoon. However, flights to Lukla are less frequent. Instead, you can drive from Kathmandu to Phaplu and start the trek from there. After completing the trek, you can drive back from Phaplu to Kathmandu.
What is the weather like in Upper Mustang, Nepal in June?
In June, Mustang, Nepal, experiences mild and pleasant weather. Daytime temperatures range from 16°C to 22°C, while nights are cooler. The region is relatively dry due to its location in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, making it a good time for trekking and exploring.
Can you do the Annapurna Circuit in July?
Yes, you can do the Annapurna Circuit in July. Most of the trek is in a rain shadow area, making it one of the best Monsoon treks. Despite the monsoon season, the region remains relatively dry and suitable for trekking in June, July, and August.
Which is the best trek in Nepal in the Monsoon(June, July, August)?
The best treks in Nepal for the Monsoon months (June, July, and August) are the Nar Phu Valley Trek, Annapurna Circuit Trek, Upper Mustang Trek, Phaplu Everest Base Camp Trek, and Lower Dolpo Trek. These treks are in rain shadow areas, making them ideal during the monsoon season.
How good is the Nar Phu Valley trek in Monsoon?
The Nar Phu Valley trek is excellent in Monsoon. Being in a rain shadow area, it’s suitable for trekking in June, July, and August. Additionally, the Kangla Pass will be easier to cross as there will be no snow, making the trek more accessible during these months.
How ideal is it to trek to Lower Dolpo Trek in Monsoon?
Trekking to Lower Dolpo in Monsoon, particularly in June, July, and August, is ideal. The trek involves crossing two passes, Numala and Bagala, snow-free during this time. Lower Dolpo is also in a rain shadow area, ensuring relatively dry conditions and making it suitable for trekking during the monsoon season.
What temperature do I expect while trekking during the Monsoon season in Nepal?
During the monsoon season in Nepal, expect warm temperatures at low altitudes. For high-altitude treks, nighttime and morning temperatures can drop to around 0°C, while daytime temperatures typically range from 20-25°C, making for comfortable trekking conditions.
Do we expect rain during the Monsoon treks?
You can expect some rain at lower altitudes during Monsoon treks in Nepal. However, as you ascend to higher altitudes, the chances of rain decrease significantly, making the upper regions drier and more suitable for trekking during the monsoon season.