October is the most popular month for visitors traveling to Nepal. Trekking conditions are glorious, the crisp skies offer excellent mountain views, and cultural festivals offer many opportunities to celebrate. Rates and crowds are at their peak, but for good reason—read on to discover why you should get in on the action in Nepal in October.

Weather

Nepal sees enormous climatic variation between the plains of the Terai, the mid-hills (where Kathmandu and Pokhara are located), and the high Himalaya. Temperatures in Kathmandu and Pokhara sit comfortably in the high 70s and low 80s (Fahrenheit), while the Terai remains several degrees hotter. The weather in the mountains is cool and clear. It can rain in October, but generally not very much, and usually earlier in the month.

Crowds & Costs

October is peak tourism season in Nepal. The most popular trails in the Everest and Annapurna regions can get quite crowded, and many hotels charge peak-season rates. If traveling in October, book domestic flights and long-distance buses as far ahead of time as possible. If traveling during Dashain (which usually falls in October—see below), plan domestic travel carefully, as buses fill up especially fast in the lead-up to the festival.

Trekking Trails

Many trekkers consider October to be the best month in the mountains of Nepal, as the weather is ideal, visibility is good, and trails are in peak condition. But, you'll rarely have a trail or a viewpoint to yourself on the most popular trails, and teahouses fill up fast. To avoid the crowds, trek to lesser-known or more remote areas of the Himalaya. See Everest Base Camp in October for more about trekking in the Everest Region this month.

Plan your trip to Nepal
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Get Started

Where to Go

Nepal is your oyster in October, with weather and activities at their best throughout the country. That said, you won't be alone in the hot spots. Trekkers who want solitude will need to get off the beaten path to avoid crowds and full lodges on the most popular routes. Camping treks allow for the most peace and quiet: Upper Dolpo, the Dhaulagiri Circuit, and the Limi Valley trek are three to consider. For more on camping treks in Nepal, check out this article. 

What to Do

You can't go wrong in Nepal in October! Whatever you want to do, conditions are likely to be good. Beyond trekking, whitewater rafting and kayaking trips are excellent activities for October, as water and air temperatures are at their most comfortable. The Sun Kosi, Tamur, and Karnali Rivers offer the perfect settings for a multiday expedition. Alternatively, learn to kayak on a river closer to Kathmandu or Pokhara. Here's more on the best rafting trips in Nepal. 

Mountain biking, paragliding outside of Pokhara and Bandipur, and cultural sightseeing in Kathmandu are also enjoyable activities in October.

Events in October

Traditional Nepali festivals (whether Hindu or Buddhist) usually follow a lunar calendar. This means that some festivals that fall in October one year may be in September or November the next. Some festivals that usually occur in October are:

Dashain, Nationwide. Typically taking place in October, Dashain is the most important festival for Nepali Hindus and runs for 15 days. As a major holiday, Nepalis travel back to their hometowns and villages to spend the festival with their families.

Tihar, Terai. Second only to Dashain, Tihar (also called Deepavali) is an important five-day festival of lights for Nepali Hindus in the Terai. It follows Dashain by a few weeks, sometimes falling in October. Each day is dedicated to an animal, sibling, or self-reflection; day two is for worshipping dogs, recognizing their loyalty and connection to humans.  

Photo Kathmandu. A festival showcasing Nepali and international photography is held biennially from October to November. 

Traveling to Nepal in October? Check out these great itineraries

Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek - 21 Days. The Dhaulagiri Circuit trek is challenging and a real adventure for experienced trekkers who are looking for an expedition-like experience. From farming villages in the Himalayan foothills to high alpine pastures, uninhabited valleys, and close-up views of several peaks over 21,000 feet, this circuit trek is breathtaking at every stage.

Kali Gandaki River Rafting - 6 Days. This medium-length rafting expedition is an excellent way to take advantage of Nepal's post-monsoon rivers. Leaving from the popular lakeside town of Pokhara, you'll brave Class III and IV rapids with an expert guide, camp and dine under the stars on riverside beaches, and kayak on smooth sections of the Kali Gandaki. 

More Helpful Information

Nepal in September
Nepal in November
Best Time of Year to Visit Nepal
How Many Days to Spend in Nepal