Nepal in October stands out as the crown jewel of the Himalayan travel calendar. The skies wash clean after monsoon rains, temperatures settle into a comfortable sweet spot, and the mountains reveal themselves in crystal clarity. It is a time of festivities, and perfect for outdoor activities from difficult treks in the mountains to leisurely nature walks.
Is October a Good Time to Visit Nepal?
Is October a good time to visit Nepal? Absolutely. October ranks as the prime month in the Nepalese tourism calendar for several compelling reasons:
The landscape after the monsoons is fully rejuvenated in green and flowers. One can expect very clear views of the mountains against the backdrop of clear blue skies with crisp white Himalayan peaks.
If it is not trekking down the small mountain villages, a tourist could just be enjoying visiting ancient temples in the great weather and dry conditions.
Also Read: Nepal Itinerary (7 Days) for Tourists
Weather in Nepal in October
Understanding Nepal weather in October helps you pack appropriately and plan activities that make the most of these ideal conditions.
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Temperature:
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Average daytime temperature: 20–26°C
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Average temperature range in popular areas (Kathmandu, Pokhara): 21–28°C
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Nighttime temperatures can drop to around 13°C
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Humidity: Moderate, with post-monsoon freshness
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Chance of Rain (%): Low (average rainfall: 59mm for the month)
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Daylight (Hrs): Around 11 hours per day
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Sunrise: Between 5:57-6:14 AM
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Sunset: Between 5:20-5:50 PM
Things to Do in Nepal in October
October’s excellent weather conditions open up the full spectrum of things to do in Nepal in October. Here are some standout activities:
Trekking the Annapurna Circuit
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Where:Annapurna Conservation Area, Western Nepal
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Why: October delivers the perfect combination of clear skies, stable weather, and comfortable temperatures for this world-famous trek.
This iconic 160-230km route circles the Annapurna massif, taking you through diverse landscapes from subtropical forests to high alpine terrain. You’ll pass traditional villages, cross the challenging Thorong La Pass (5,416m), and enjoy spectacular mountain panoramas that October’s clarity makes truly unforgettable.
Everest Base Camp Trek
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Where:Sagarmatha National Park, Khumbu region
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Why: October’s post-monsoon clarity provides exceptional visibility of Mount Everest and surrounding peaks.
This legendary trek takes you to the foot of the world’s highest mountain through Sherpa villages, ancient monasteries, and dramatic valleys. October’s stable weather minimizes flight cancellations to Lukla (the trek’s starting point) and provides dry, stable trails.
Also Read: Trekker’s Guide to Hiking in Nepal
Wildlife Safari in Chitwan National Park
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Where:Chitwan District, southern Nepal
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Why: October’s moderate temperatures and post-monsoon greenery create ideal wildlife watching conditions.
Explore Nepal’s premier wildlife sanctuary as animals become more active and visible after the monsoon. The park’s lush post-monsoon vegetation and comfortable temperatures make activities like jeep safaris, canoe rides, and guided jungle walks particularly rewarding.
Places to See in Nepal in October
Nepal tourism in October reaches its peak, making these destinations particularly appealing:
Kathmandu Durbar Square
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Location: Central Kathmandu
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Entry Fees: Foreigners: NPR 1,000; SAARC nationals (including Indians): NPR 100
This UNESCO World Heritage site showcases centuries of Nepalese architectural brilliance through temples, palaces, and courtyards. October’s comfortable temperatures and festival activities make this historical complex especially vibrant. Visit in the morning hours to avoid crowds and catch the beautiful light playing across the intricately carved wooden facades.
Pokhara Lakeside
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Location: Pokhara, Western Nepal
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Entry Fees: Free (individual attractions have separate fees)
Pokhara shines in Nepal in October with perfect reflections of the Annapurna range on Phewa Lake’s calm waters. The clear weather allows for stunning mountain views, paragliding adventures, and peaceful boat rides. The post-monsoon landscape bursts with greenery, creating beautiful contrasts with the blue lake and white mountain peaks.
Bhaktapur Ancient City
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Location: Kathmandu Valley
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Entry Fees: Foreigners: NPR 1,500; SAARC nationals: NPR 500
This well-preserved medieval city displays traditional Newari architecture and craftsmanship across its temples, palaces, and squares. The city’s famous pottery square, wood carving workshops, and ancient temples come alive in October’s pleasant weather.
Also Read: Historical Places in Nepal
Lumbini Buddhist Circuit
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Location: Rupandehi District, southern Nepal
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Entry Fees: Maya Devi Temple area: NPR 200 for foreigners; discounted for Indians
The birthplace of Buddha welcomes pilgrims and tourists with tranquil gardens, monasteries built by different Buddhist nations, and important archaeological sites. The post-monsoon greenery enhances the peaceful atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Nepal Events in October
The cultural calendar fills with important celebrations during Nepal in October, offering visitors remarkable cultural experiences:
Dashain Festival
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Date: 15-day festival usually falling between September-October (check specific dates for your travel year)
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Venue: Nationwide, with major ceremonies in Kathmandu Valley
Nepal’s most important festival honors the goddess Durga and celebrates the victory of good over evil. The multi-day celebration features elaborate pujas (worship ceremonies), family gatherings, feasting, and traditional activities like kite flying and bamboo swings. For visitors, this provides an authentic glimpse into Nepalese family traditions and religious practices. Various temples across Kathmandu perform special ceremonies with animal sacrifices and ritual blessings.
Also Read: Best Festivals in Nepal
Tihar (Festival of Lights)
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Date: Five-day festival in October-November (may start in late October depending on the lunar calendar)
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Venue: Nationwide, visible in every neighborhood
Also known as Deepawali, this “festival of lights” creates magical evenings as homes and streets illuminate with oil lamps and candles. Each day honors different deities and animals, including crows, dogs, cows, and the goddess Lakshmi. Visitors witness beautiful rangoli (colored powder) designs, flower decorations, and hear traditional Deusi-Bhailo songs as children and young people go door-to-door performing. The festival creates spectacular photo opportunities throughout Nepal.
Mani Rimdu
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Date: Mid-October to early November (varies by monastery)
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Venue:Tengboche, Thame, and Chiwong monasteries in the Everest region
This colorful Buddhist festival features masked dances, religious ceremonies, and cultural performances at monasteries in the Everest region. For trekkers on the Everest Base Camp route in October, timing your journey to coincide with this festival adds a profound cultural dimension to your Himalayan adventure.
Indra Jatra
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Date: Eight-day festival in September-October (may fall in early October)
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Venue:Kathmandu Durbar Square and surrounding areas
This ancient festival honors Indra, king of heaven, and features the display of the Living Goddess Kumari. Street processions, masked dances, and the raising of a ceremonial pole (Yosin) mark this important cultural event. The festival provides visitors with spectacular photography opportunities and insights into Nepal’s unique living goddess tradition.
Also Read: Nepal Visa For Indians
Things to Know Before Visit Nepal in October
Being well-prepared enhances your Nepal in October experience. Here’s what Indian tourists should know:
What to Pack for Nepal in October?
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Item |
Why You Need It |
|---|---|
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Sunscreen (SPF 30+) |
UV intensity increases with elevation |
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Reusable water bottle |
Stay hydrated while reducing plastic waste |
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Light/medium weight sleeping bag |
For trekking and budget accommodations |
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Basic first aid kit |
Include altitude sickness medication if trekking |
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Hand sanitizer |
Public facilities may lack soap |
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Power adapter |
Nepal uses Type C, D, and M plugs |
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Portable charger |
Power outages still occur in Nepal |
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Cash in small denominations |
Many places outside cities don’t accept cards |
Also Read: Nightlife in Nepal
What to Wear in Nepal in October?
What to wear in Nepal in October depends on your itinerary and destinations. In cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara, wear light clothing during the day and add a jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.
For temple visits, dress modestly—women should cover shoulders and knees, and men should avoid shorts. A light scarf is handy for sudden visits to religious sites.
Trekkers should pack moisture-wicking base layers, warm mid-layers, and a waterproof outer shell. For safaris, wear neutral-colored clothing with long sleeves and pants to protect against insects and the sun.
Getting Around Nepal in October
October offers good conditions for all transportation modes in Nepal. Roads remain largely accessible after the monsoon, and clear skies make domestic flights reliable.
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Air Travel: Domestic flights connect Kathmandu with major destinations like Pokhara (25 minutes), Lukla (gateway to Everest, 30 minutes), and Bharatpur (for Chitwan, 20 minutes).
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Tourist Buses: Comfortable tourist buses connect major destinations. The Kathmandu-Pokhara route (7-8 hours) costs around Rs. 700-1,500 depending on bus quality. The Green Line and Deluxe buses offer the most reliable services with scheduled rest stops.
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Private Vehicles: Hiring a car with driver provides flexibility and comfort. Expect to pay Rs. 5,000-8,000 per day depending on vehicle type and itinerary.
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Local Buses: Budget-friendly but often crowded and slow. Best for shorter journeys or adventurous travelers not pressed for time.
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Taxis and Ride-Hailing: Readily available in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Use metered taxis or negotiate fares in advance (typically Rs. 500-1,000 for cross-town journeys).
For Indian tourists, traveling via land borders (Sunauli-Bhairahawa, Raxaul-Birgunj) remains popular. October sees smooth border operations with shorter wait times than monsoon months.
Where to Stay in Nepal in October?
Here are some great places to stay in Nepal based on your travel style:
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Trekking & Adventure Basecamps: Pokhara is the gateway to the Annapurna region, while Kathmandu is the starting point for Everest treks. Both cities offer everything from backpacker hostels to boutique hotels.
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Zostel Pokhara – Starts from ₹1,600/per night (dorm), ₹3,000/per night (private)
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Hotel Middle Path & Spa (Pokhara) – Starts from ₹3,950/per night
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Aloft Kathmandu Thamel – Starts from ₹10,200/per night
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Himalayan Trekkers: For those heading into the mountains, tea houses and basic lodges along trekking routes (Annapurna, Everest, Langtang) are open and fill up fast in October — book ahead when possible.
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Lama Hotel Guesthouse (Langtang route) – Starts from ₹1,500/per night
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Hotel Mountain View (Ghandruk) – Starts from ₹2,400/per night
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Yeti Mountain Home (Lukla) – Starts from ₹18,850/per night
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Cultural Travelers: Kathmandu Valley cities like Patan and Bhaktapur offer rich heritage, temples, and traditional guesthouses — ideal for immersing in Nepalese culture and festivals.
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Swotha Traditional Homes (Patan) – Starts from ₹4,100/per night
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Traditional Comfort (Kathmandu) – Starts from ₹5,200/per night
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Hotel Heritage (Bhaktapur) – Starts from ₹5,700/per night
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Nature & Wellness Seekers: Lush hills, fresh air, and peaceful stays can be found in Bandipur, Nagarkot, and Tansen — perfect for retreats, yoga, or just unwinding.
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The Famous Farm (Nuwakot) – Starts from ₹6,300/per night
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Hotel Country Villa (Nagarkot) – Starts from ₹7,100/per night
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The Old Inn (Bandipur) – Starts from ₹8,500/per night
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Budget Travelers: Nepal is one of the best value destinations in Asia. Dorm beds and private rooms are cheap, especially in Thamel (Kathmandu) and Lakeside (Pokhara).
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WanderThirst Hostel (Kathmandu) – Starts from ₹670/per night
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Alobar1000 Hostel (Kathmandu) – Starts from ₹973/per night (dorm)
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Kiwi Backpackers Hostel (Pokhara) – Starts from ₹1,000/per night
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What to Eat in Nepal in October?
October brings harvest season and festival specialties to Nepalese tables:
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Dal Bhat: The national dish combining rice, lentil soup, and vegetable curry, providing complete nutrition for active travelers
Try at:Thakali Bhanchha Ghar (Kathmandu), OR2K (Pokhara)
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Momos: Steamed or fried dumplings filled with vegetables, chicken, or buffalo meat, served with spicy chutney
Try at:Yangling Tibetan Restaurant (Kathmandu)
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Sel Roti: Sweet, ring-shaped rice bread traditionally prepared during Tihar festival
Try at: Local bakeries or roadside vendors during October festivals
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Newari Khaja Set: Traditional platter featuring beaten rice, spiced meats, lentil patties, and pickles
Try at:Honacha (Patan), Newa Lahana (Kirtipur)
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Thukpa: Hearty noodle soup perfect for cooler mountain evenings
Try at:Yangling Tibetan Restaurant (Kathmandu), local teahouses along trekking routes
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Festival sweets: Laddu, barfi, and other milk-based sweets prepared for Dashain and Tihar
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Seasonal fruits: Apples from mountain regions and citrus fruits from middle hills
Try at: Local produce markets and roadside stalls like Kalimati
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Raksi and Chyang: Traditional rice wine and beer, often served during festivals
Try at: Local homes, Newari eateries, or community-run festival events
Also Read: Must-Try Nepal Famous Foods
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FAQs
Is October a good time to visit Nepal?
October stands as the best month for visiting Nepal, offering ideal weather, clear mountain views, and major cultural festivals. Post-monsoon conditions create perfect circumstances for trekking, sightseeing, wildlife viewing, and outdoor activities of all kinds.
How hot is Nepal in October?
Nepal experiences mild, comfortable temperatures in October. Lower elevations like Kathmandu and Pokhara enjoy daytime highs of 21-26°C (70-79°F) and nighttime lows of 10-13°C (50-55°F). The Terai region in the south reaches 30-32°C, while mountain areas above 3,000m can drop below freezing at night.
What is the average temperature in Nepal in October?
The average temperature across Nepal in October is 21°C (70°F), though this varies significantly by elevation. Kathmandu averages 24°C during the day and 13°C at night. Higher altitude trekking regions average 9-15°C during the day but can drop below freezing after sunset.
Can tourists enjoy Nepal in October?
Tourists find October ideal for experiencing Nepal’s diverse attractions. The exceptional weather suits every activity from challenging Himalayan treks to cultural tours and wildlife safaris. Festival season adds cultural richness, while clear skies provide stunning mountain photography opportunities.
What to wear in Nepal in October?
Pack layered clothing for Nepal in October. In cities, lightweight clothes work for daytime with a light jacket for evenings. Trekkers need moisture-wicking base layers, warm mid-layers, and a waterproof outer shell. Always pack modest attire for temple visits (covering shoulders and knees).
Is it safe to visit Nepal in October?
October offers very safe travel conditions in Nepal. Dry weather makes roads and trekking paths stable, while comfortable temperatures reduce health risks related to extreme heat or cold. The main consideration is booking accommodations and transportation in advance due to high visitor numbers during this peak season.
What are the best places to visit in Nepal in October?
The best Nepal in October destinations include Kathmandu’s cultural sites, Pokhara’s scenic lakeside, the Annapurna and Everest trekking regions, Chitwan National Park for wildlife, and Lumbini’s Buddhist pilgrimage sites. Festival celebrations make cultural centers particularly vibrant during this month.
Are outdoor attractions open in Nepal during October?
All outdoor attractions operate at full capacity in Nepal in October. National parks, trekking routes, adventure activities, and cultural sites function optimally in the excellent weather conditions. This contrasts with monsoon months when some trails close and with winter when high passes may become snowbound.
