Are you planning a trip to Nepal in December? Read on to learn more about the weather in the country during this time of year, what you should pack in terms of clothing and gear, and the best places you ought to visit during the month in this Himalayan paradise.
Nepal Weather in December: Overview
- Average temperature range: 7°C (45°F) – 22°C (72°F)
- Rainfall: 20 mm (1 inch) in Kathmandu; 70 mm (3 inches) in Pokhara; 10 mm (0 inches) in Bharatpur.
- Rainy days: 1 in Kathmandu; 1 in Pokhara; 1 in Bharatpur.
- Sunny days: 24 in Kathmandu; 22 in Pokhara; 19 in Bharatpur.
December is characterized by spectacular weather conditions in Nepal. There is absolutely no chance of it raining and you can expect plenty a bright blue sky with the sun shining overhead instead. Although cold in the mornings and evenings, the afternoons are pleasant. The average temperatures during December in Nepal range from highs of around 22°C (72°F) to lows that touch the 7°C (45°F) mark. Bear in mind, though, that these figures will be far lower the higher you are.
We don't recommend trekking or hiking in Nepal during December, unless you're a thoroughly experienced and expert climber. Even if you've spent many a winter up in the mountains, do take a second to consider the challenging nature of the Himalayas, a range unlike any other in the world, and the infrastructure in most towns and villages that gatekeep its many trails.
We'd recommend taking some time out in December to explore the picturesque lakeside city of Pokhara and the beautiful hill station of Nagarkot instead, from which you can appreciate the mountains but do so in relative comfort and ease.
Weather of Nepal's Major Cities in December
| City | Min. Temp | Max. Temp | Rainfall |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kathmandu | 7°C (45°F) | 18°C (64°F) | 20 mm (1 inch) |
| Pokhara | 6°C (43°F) | 17°C (63°F) | 70 mm (3 inches) |
| Bharatpur (Chitwan) |
11°C (52°F) | 22°C (72°F) | 10 mm (0 inches) |
Kathmandu (also Patan/Lalitpur): Kathmandu is terrific during the month of December. The month features long hours of sunshine and practically no chance of rain. It's dry but cold, though, especially in the early hours of the afternoon and later on in the evenings, so do plan accordingly. The average temperature during December ranges from highs of 18°C (64°F) to lows of 7°C (45°F).
Pokhara: December is a good time of year to be out and about exploring Pokhara. Although some rainfall is to be expected during this winter month, it's unlikely to be wet for more than a day or two. It is also very cold in Pokhara during December. The average temperature in this popular lakeside city ranges from maximums of 17°C (63°F) to minimums of 6°C (43°F) during the last month of the year.
Bharatpur (Chitwan): Although lower than it is during other times of the year, humidity levels still hover around the 75% mark in Bharatpur during December. Although it can be slightly uncomfortable, the chances of it raining remain minimal. The average temperatures in Bharatpur during December range from highs of 22°C (72°F) to lows of 11°C (52°F).
Feeling overwhelmed planning a trip to Nepal? Check this handy guide out!
The Best Places to Visit in Nepal in December
1.Pokhara
Pokhara is usually the starting point for many a famous trek in Nepal. In December, though, trekking is not advisable, as it get s very cold high up in the mountains. We recommend exploring the city of Pokhara instead. It is cold, yes, especially at night, but it's dry as well, making conditions ideal for walking around the city. You could take the cable car up to Manakamana temple or visit the World Peace Pagoda from where you can take in panoramic views of Phewa Lake.
2.Nagarkot
Nagarkot is a scenic village located close to Kathmandu in Bagmati province, known for the spectacular views of the Himalayas it affords visitors. It is cold in Nagarkot in December but it's a dry month and it's usually very clear during this time, meaning, with a little luck on your side, you'll be able to see Mount Everest, Manaslu, and Annapurna, among other massive mountains, in the distance. It's best to visit Nagarkot during the first few weeks of December as the risk of it storming increases towards the end of the month.
December Crowds and Costs
Despite the gorgeous weather, December is not part of the tourist high season in Nepal. This is primarily due to the fact that many travelers come to Nepal to trek and most of the trekking trails are inaccessible during the month, given how cold it gets higher up in the mountains, and the potential risks associated with adverse weather conditions. Popular urban centers like Kathmandu and Pokhara, too, see a reduction in crowds during the last month of the year, compared to the peak season months of October and November.
Due to it being quieter in most tourist hotspots around Nepal in the winter, December affords travelers to the country far better prices related to accommodation, airfare, and transportation, as compared to the prices quoted during the preceding months of October and November. You can expect shopping to be more affordable during this time of year as well.
What to Wear in Nepal in December
It's not likely to rain in Nepal during December. The month features generally sunny and dry weather conditions, so there's no need to pack raincoats, umbrellas, or ponchos if you're traveling to the country during the winter.
Ideally, you'd want to make sure you pack the following items if you're traveling to Nepal in December: long-sleeved tops and shirts, thermals, sweatpants, a few t-shirts, capris, jackets, hoodies, a thick winter coat, sweaters, sturdy tennis shoes or sneakers, a fleece, thick socks, gloves, scarves, winter hats or beanies, sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellant, and your toiletries.
We don't recommend trekking in Nepal in December. It's extremely cold high up in the mountains and this gives rise to risks that are best avoided if possible. If, however, you're a very experienced trekker and insist on exploring the trails during the harsh winter conditions, you'll need the following items, in addition to the ones mentioned previously: a sturdy backpack (we recommend a minimum of 65 liters but you may need an even bigger one given winter clothes and gear may require additional room), a daypack, shirts and tracks made of quick-drying materials, waterproof trekking boots, a windbreaker, a down jacket, headlamp, trekking poles, neck warmers, and a balaclava.
Explore Nepal with Asia Highlights
There are mountains, and then there are the Himalayas. If you're reading this, you're probably planning your dream vacation to the gorgeous Himalayan abode that is Nepal! If you're interested in exploring Nepal and experiencing the country's many fascinating delights, feel free to get in touch with us. Our team of travel experts here at Asia Highlights go above and beyond in making sure you navigate Nepal's changing seasons as seamlessly as possible and assist you in picking the perfect time to visit its top attractions.
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