Climate and Weather in Nepal

The climatic condition of Nepal differs from place to place depending upon geographical regions. Contrary to many views Nepal is not freezing cold all year. One can have the warm and hot weather in the Terai whereas can feel the chilling arctic-like weather in the Himalayas. Nepal’s weather is influenced by a maritime and continental factor. Nepal has four main season and several sub-season. Autumn (September to November), followed by Winter (December to  February), Spring (March to May), and finally, there is Summer/Monsoon (June to August).

One important aspect to keep in mind is climate change. Over the past few years, some of Nepal’s season has started earlier than expected and ended soon than they have in the past. The mildest climate can be found in the Kathmandu valley. It does not snow in the winter, but temperatures can get down to freezing. It can often feel colder as heating and insulation is not common. Whereas in monsoon/summer season, the valley does not flood though badly maintained roads do. 

In the mountains to the north, the weather changes quickly.  In the winter snow often blocks trekking routes while monsoon causes landslides. To the south in the jungles are nearly always hot and humid. The weather gets extremely hot, especially in the Terai belt. In the winter and early summer, there’s little water so spotting animals is easier then. 

The climate of Nepal is influenced heavily by the Himalayas, a natural barrier that divides the main weather systems of Asia. As a general rule, throughout autumn and spring, the temperatures on the southern slopes of the Himalaya ranges from 10 degree celsius to 30 degree celsius. North of the great mountain barrier, the temperatures will range from 15 degree celsius down to -10 degree celsius and colder at night. The spring season after early April will have generally higher temperatures and more wind. During the monsoon, temperatures rarely dip below freezing, except in the highest meadows. Annual precipitation is normally less than 500 millimeters.