When is the Best Time to Visit Pokhara?
- Places
- By Sandipan Khadka
Pokhara is the second biggest city of Nepal, located in the central part of the country. The city is known as the premier tourism hub, with plenty of tourists making a visit every single year. It is also a scenic gateway to the Himalayas, and several attractive places make it a city not to miss out on when visiting Nepal. Now you may be wondering the best time to visit Pokhara.
The autumn season (from September to December) and the spring season (from March to May) are the best times to visit Pokhara. It is also considered the peak tourist season in Pokhara. Apart from city sightseeing and visiting popular destinations, you can also engage in adventure activities, including bungee jumping, zip line, and paragliding.
In this blog, we’ll be going through the best time to visit Pokhara, showing you the peak season, off-season, and giving you proper insight into the weather and temperature patterns of this city in depth. So, make sure to read till the end!
Weather Conditions & Tourists’ Engagement in Pokhara
Autumn season (September to December) and the spring season (March to May) are the ideal times to travel to Pokhara. Mainly, the reason behind it is the clear weather with optimal visibility. The sky opens up beautifully during these months.
In spring, you’ll see clear blue skies and a perfect atmosphere. You might experience a bit of cold weather, especially in the morning and at night. In the autumn, the air will be fresh and authentic, plus the mountain views from the city look really mesmerizing. The weather is also near perfect, not too cold nor too hot.
December to February are some of the coldest months in Pokhara. The winter season continues till March in this city, and during this month, you’ll see plenty of tourists engaged in tour and trek activities. Adventure activities can also be carried out in the spring months (March to May).
After the conclusion of May, fewer tourists visit Pokhara as the summer season begins after that. It can also be considered the offseason in Pokhara. During the summer season, heavy rainfall also occurs with an increase in humidity. The summer season generally goes from May to August. And as the month of September approaches, the autumn season kicks in.
The end of May experiences a dip in tourism as Summer sets in, which is the offseason in Pokhara. The summers also bring in a little rain and humidity. Summer generally lasts from May to August, and by September, the Autumn season begins.
When is the best time to visit Pokhara?
The best time to visit Pokhara is during the autumn and spring seasons.
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- Autumn Season (September to December): The weather conditions are ideal with clear skies and the pristine Himalayan views. The visibility will also be good during this time.
- Spring Season (March to May): The surrounding valleys and peaks look stunning. Get to experience lush greenery and dense forests with rhododendrons blooming. The weather will also be optimal, not too cold nor too hot, with the days being bright and sunny. The chances of snowfall will be less at the higher altitudes.
Hence, to sum up, the best time to travel to Pokhara is during the autumn or spring season.
What to Expect in Different Seasons in Pokhara (Season-Wise Explanation)
From September to December:
One of the main highlights of visiting during these months is that you’ll get to see clear blue skies. The surrounding Himalayan peaks will also be quite stunning. The weather conditions will be perfect, especially for sightseeing tours and trekking purposes. Nepal’s biggest and grandest festivals, Dashain and Tihar, also fall in these months.
The temperature also ranges from 18 to 31 degrees Celsius. The high it can get to is 31 degrees Celsius, especially in the daytime. At night, it gets pretty chilly with the temperature dropping down to even 18 degrees Celsius.
From March to May:
During these months, the weather will be pleasant with proper visibility. These are the suitable months for sightseeing tours and outdoor activities. The festival of colors, also called ‘Holi’, is celebrated in the month of March. The temperature ranges from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius in the daytime.
While in the night, the temperature lowers to 16 degrees Celsius.
From December to February: The Off-Season
This is the off-season. During these months, the weather is pretty cold. There are higher chances of snowfall in the higher altitudes. Only the best part is that the tourists will be few during these months. So, the traffic will be quite low. The temperature becomes extremely cold, ranging from 15 degrees to even 0 degrees Celsius.
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Month-by-Month Guide of Pokhara
January in Pokhara
The following month in Pokhara is mostly bright sunny days. The nights are cold, though. You can go boating on the Phewa Lake and make a visit to Sarangkot to experience stunning sunrise views.
- Less crowd during this month.
- You can experience majestic mountain views
- Do sightseeing tours and visit several popular places.
February in Pokhara
One of the coldest temperatures this month in Pokhara. The rainfall happens quite less during this time. Daytime is pretty warm and sunny.
- As usual less crowd and peaceful.
- Surreal glimpses of snow-covered peaks.
- The air is crisp and fresh.
- You can engage in sightseeing tours and hiking activities.
March in Pokhara
This is the beginning of the spring season, also the trekking period. It is the ideal time to make a visit to Pokhara. The sky is crystal clear with a perfect environment.
- Blooming rhododendrons and other wildflowers can be seen in this month.
- Tons of trekking/hiking activities.
- Low chances of rainfall.
April in Pokhara
The month of April is considered the best from a travel and tourism perspective. The sunny, clear blue skies with the lush greenery everywhere create an enchanting atmosphere.
- Warm temperature with slight cool evenings.
- Get to experience blooming rhododendrons.
- Occasional rainfall and dark clouds.
- Ideal for trekking and other outdoor activities.
May in Pokhara
It is a pre-monsoon time in Pokhara. The surrounding environment becomes lush green with the exquisite mountain views. There is a chance of a rain shower in the afternoon.
- Warm and humid with monsoon approaching in the latter part of the month.
- The landscape is amazing with lush scenery.
- Go boating on Phewa Lake or visit any other monumental sites.
June in Pokhara
June marks the beginning of the monsoon season in Pokhara. It is quite hot and humid in this month with only a few amount of tourists making a visit.
- More of an off-season for trekking.
- Tourist numbers are significantly lower.
- Frequent afternoon and evening showers.
- Hotel costs may be lower during this time.
July in Pokhara
It is the peak monsoon season, where outdoor activities and tours are almost nonexistent. Frequent heavy rain occurs during this time.
- Peak monsoon, or in other words, the wettest month.
- The landscape is pretty green during this time.
- Mountain views are almost blocked because of dark clouds.
- Road travel is very tough due to slippery roads and the chances of landslides.
August in Pokhara
The monsoon isn’t over yet, and the weather is hot and sticky. Rainfall almost stops after this month. It is also considered the off-season time, with only a few tourists.
- High rainfall, especially in the afternoon and evening.
- Trekking trails are mostly slippery and wet.
- Few tourists and sightseeing activities.
September in Pokhara
Autumn begins with the month of September, which means another trekking season. The lush green landscapes can be seen along with fresh air (post-monsoon). The monsoon rain clears away all the toxins and dust, clearing the atmosphere. Some amount of rain can be expected, especially in early September.
- Clear and dry weather in the latter part of the month.
- Ideal temperature, not too hot nor too cold.
- The air becomes crisp and clear after the conclusion of the monsoon months.
- Ideal time for visiting the major attractions of Pokhara.
October in Pokhara
October is one of the prime months in Pokhara with pleasant weather conditions and mesmerizing views. Trekking, sightseeing, and other adventure activities are done in huge numbers in the month of October.
- Clean and clear skies.
- Breathtaking views of the Annapurna region.
- The weather remains pretty warm.
- Sunny and dry.
- Peak trekking season; trekkers often go to the Annapurna Circuit trek and the Annapurna Base Camp trek.
- Paragliding and sightseeing opportunities.
November in Pokhara
November is also considered the peak trekking season, offering the best possible environment and scenery. The clear skies and the breathtaking mountain views provide the perfect platform for trekking and outdoor activities. The two biggest festivals of Nepal, Dashain and Tihar, also fall at this time.
- Cool temperature with pristine views.
- Excellent mountain views of the Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and the Annapurna massif.
- Perfect for trekking and other activities.
December in Pokhara
The weather in December is pretty hot and sunny. It might get a bit cold at night. Due to the clear skies and ideal temperatures, trekking and other activities are also done frequently.
- Eye-catching glimpses of the Annapurna range.
- The temperature is quite pleasant.
- Best visibility of the Himalayas.
- New Year’s Eve is celebrated in a grand manner with live music, food, and dance performances.
Which is the Worst Time of the Year to Visit Pokhara?
The worst time of the year to visit Pokhara, or the off-peak season, is:
Winter Season (From December to February)
The winter season runs from December to February, and the city remains way too cold during these months.
- The temperature is freezing cold.
- Higher chances of snowfall in the higher altitudes, which block the roads and trekking trails.
- We suggest you not do any high-altitude trekking during these months.
Summer Season (From June to August)
- Heavy rain showers due to the monsoon.
- With pouring rain, the chances of landslides and floods increase.
- Trekking and sightseeing tours are challenging during these months due to slippery trails and road blockages.
Monthly Weather Chart of Pokhara
Monthly Weather Update of Pokhara
The Best Time to Visit Pokhara for Festivals
There are many festivals and events held regularly in Pokhara. Some of them are:
Dashain (Bijaya Dashami)
Dashain, also called the Bijaya Dashami in Nepali, is the number one festival of Nepal. This highly popular festival falls in late September or early October. In this festival, people celebrate by visiting their relatives and seeking blessings from them. It runs for around 10 days and is also the longest festival in Nepal.
Tihar
After Dashain, Tihar is the second-biggest festival of Nepal, celebrated by the whole country. It is also called the festival of lights, where people decorate their homes by putting lights all over, inside, and outside. It falls in the months of October or sometimes in November. It is celebrated for five days, and the Goddess Laxmi is worshipped.
Pokhara Street Festival
Celebrated on New Year’s Eve (December 28 to January 1), this event takes place annually in the Lakeside of Pokhara. During this festival, many tourists and locals celebrate the upcoming year vibrantly by singing and dancing. It features tasty foods, live music, and energetic dance performances, making the celebration of the English New Year huge.
Fewa New Year Festival
Another new year celebration festival, but it is celebrated around the Nepali New Year, usually in April. During this festival, a celebration takes place with local dances and singing performances. The dance also reflects the culture of the region.
The Best Time to Visit Pokhara for Budget Travelers
Off-peak season is the best time to visit Pokhara for budget travelers. And the main reason behind that is that the prices of accommodations, hotels, etc., go up during the peak seasons. You can benefit from the budget perspective if you visit in more off-season months or less-crowded times.
Usually, if you’re low on budget, then it’s best to visit Pokhara in the winter or the monsoon season. Arrive in months from December to February or June to August, where you will get lower costs, especially cheaper accommodation. In comparison to peak tourist times, this is the best time for budget travelers.
This applies if you’re here for trekking purposes as well. The teahouses on the trekking trail also offer low rates during these months.
Must-Visit Places of Pokhara (Major Attractions)
Phewa Lake and Tal Barahi Temple
Phewa Lake is the most visited lake in Nepal. One of the specialties is that from this lake, a pristine reflection of different mountain peaks can be seen, such as Machhapuchhre, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri. Due to the pure and clear water, such an amazing sight can be captured. You can go boating in Phewa Lake and visit the Tal Barahi temple, which is located in the middle of Phewa Lake.
Tal Barahi Temple
You can stop there and do prayers and other religious activities. It lies in the center of the lake.
Sarangkot
Sarangkot is another beautiful place, which is just a 30-minute drive from Pokhara. It is also a popular paragliding destination. Here you can engage in different activities such as hiking, zip lining, bird watching, and paragliding. This place also gives you the breathtaking panoramic view of the Annapurna, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Dhaulagiri ranges. The sunrise view from here is also exquisite.
World Peace Pagoda
World Peace Pagoda, also called the Shanti Stupa in Nepali, is a popular Buddhist stupa located on a hilltop. Gigantic in height, this white-colored stupa is a stunning monument that several tourists visit every single year. From this stupa, majestic views of the entire Pokhara valley and the Phewa Lake can be seen.
Davis Falls
Davis Falls, also called as Devi’s Fall, is a vast waterfall that flows straight into an underground tunnel. The source of the waterfall is the Phewa Lake. The fall merges through the rocks to create dangerous caves and tunnels. The majority of the tourists visit this unique waterfall.
Davis Fall Locally known as the Patale Chhango, is a ferocious waterfall.
Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave
Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave is a very popular, sacred cave that is located opposite of Davis Falls. It is also one of the longest caves in Nepal and one of the major attractions of Pokhara. The water from Davis Falls passes through this cave, and inside the cave, you can hear the thunderous sound of water. When visiting the cave, you can see small shrines and statues, mainly dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave
Pumdikot Shiva Statue
Pumdikot is a renowned hill station of Pokhara, where the gigantic Shiva statue lies. This is the second-largest statue of Lord Shiva, as it is 51 feet tall. The entire structure is 108 feet high, making it a sight to remember. From here, you can enjoy the majestic views of the mountains and the surrounding valley.
Begnas Lake
Begnas Lake is much quieter and more tranquil than the popular Phewa Lake. It is also the third-largest lake in Nepal and has fresh, mild, blue water. Begnas Lake is a popular destination for tourists visiting Pokhara. When visiting this lake, you can clearly see the Annapurna and the Manaslu range in the backdrop.
Begnas Lake is a freshwater lake in Pokhara, Nepal
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which season is best to visit Pokhara?
Autumn season (September to December) and the spring season (March to May) are some of the best seasons to visit Pokhara. In these months, the weather conditions will be ideal, with clear skies and perfect visibility.
Which month is best to visit Pokhara?
September to December and March to May are some of the ideal months if you’re looking to make a visit to Pokhara. The skies are clear, and temperatures are also moderate during these times. On top of that, mountain views are also top-notch, suitable for outdoor activities.
Is Pokhara colder than Kathmandu?
No, not at all. Pokhara is warmer than Kathmandu, not colder. This is because Pokhara is situated at a lower altitude in comparison to Kathmandu. The altitude of Pokhara is around 800m, whereas Kathmandu is slightly higher at around 1400m.
Can I see Everest from Pokhara?
No, unfortunately, you can’t see Everest directly from Pokhara. Everest is situated further towards the Eastern side, hence it isn’t visible from Pokhara. It is blocked by the other mountain ranges.
Which mountains are visible from Pokhara?
There are plenty of mountain ranges that are clearly visible from Pokhara. This includes Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Manaslu ranges. To get the clearest view, you can visit the nearby spots like Sarangkot.
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