Are you planning a trip to Nepal in March? Read on to learn more about March weather in Nepal, clothes to wear for the weather, and best places to visit in Nepal in March.
Nepal Weather in March: Overview
- Average temperature range: 10–26°C (50–78°F)
- Rainfall: 20–60 mm (1–2 inches), depending on location
- Average rainy days: 4
- Average sunny days: 20
March is the first month of spring in Nepal. There are warm/mild temperatures in the lowlands, while the higher elevations are still quite cool. Average temperatures in the lowlands range from 10°C to 26°C, but the popular trekking destinations around Annapurna and Everest, can still have snow and chilly weather, with average temperatures ranging from 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F). Depending on location, rainfall or snowfall averages about 1–5 days, with precipitation at 20–60mm for March.
Nepal's Major Cities' Weather in March
| City | Min. Temp. (ºC) | Max. Temp. (ºC) | Rainfall (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kathmandu | 8 | 25 | 33 |
| Pokhara | 13 | 27 | 60 |
| Bharatpur (Chitwan) | 10 | 25 | 30 |
Kathmandu: The weather in Kathmandu is generally mild to warm and pleasant in March. The lowest temperatures at night are around 8°C (46°F), and the highest temperatures during daytime can reach 25°C (77°F). Rainfall is relatively low in March with 1–3 days with light rainfall amounting to 33 mm (1 inch).
Pokhara: It is quite warm during the day and cool at night in Pokhara in March. Temperatures in Pokhara ranges from 13°C (55°F) at night to 27°C (81°F) during the day. Rainfall in this month is about 60 mm (2 inches), with occasional showers on about 3 days.
Bharatpur (Chitwan): Bharatpur in March is typically warm and dry, with maximum daytime temperatures averaging around 25°C (77°F) and nighttime temperatures dropping to around 10°C (50°F). Rainfall occurs on about 3 days with a total of about 30 mm (1 inch).
Feel overwhelmed with planning a trip to Nepal? Check out our guide.
The Best Places to Visit in Nepal in March
With the rising of temperatures and the celebration of the traditional Holi Festival, March is a good time to visit Nepal. You could get the chance to experience the festival of colors, which is celebrated by riotously dispensing colored powder and water on people to remind them of the coming of the monsoon season. Meanwhile the clear blue skies make it a good time to trek the numerous beautiful trails in Nepal. Here are some of the recommended places to visit if you are going to Nepal in March.
1. Swayambhunath Stupa, Kathmandu
Located on a hilltop in the middle of Kathmandu, Swayambhunath Temple is one of the holiest places in Nepal. Because there are many monkeys living around the temple, the temple gets its nickname Monkey Temple. Comprised of a dome-shaped structure, the stupa is decorated with golden spires, intricate carvings, and colorful prayer flags. It is a good place to learn more about the spiritual and cultural heritage of Nepal. You can also get a panoramic view of Kathmandu from the Stupa.
2. Garden of Dreams, Kathmandu
If you are tired of visiting stupas and temples in Kathmandu, then Garden of Dreams is a good place to relax your eyes. Known for its historical and neo-classical designs, Garden of Dreams is one of the must-visit places in Kathmandu. Covering about 7,000 square meters (75,000 square feet), the garden gives you stunning displays of greenery with its well-designed trellises, various planted areas, its flower garden with a large pond at its center, urns, paved paths, and pergolas. Many families and retired couples visit this beautiful garden at the weekend.
3. Pokhara Old Town, Pokhara
A popular destination, Pokhara is another place you shouldn't miss on a trip to Nepal. If you are visiting Pokhara for the first time, then Pokhara Old Town is a good place for you to learn more about its history and culture. Wandering around the old streets, with their decorative bricks and carved wooden windows, is a popular way to explore the city. You can find several small sacred temples around the town, where you can see exquisite carvings on the shrines. You can also buy baskets and ceramics at the numerous shops scattered around the square.
4. Begnas Lake, Pokhara
Surrounded by lush green hills and offering stunning views of the Annapurna mountain range, Begnas Lake is one of the must-visit attractions in Pokhara. As the second-largest lake in Pokhara Valley, Begnas Lake attracts professional photographers, families with kids, retired couples, and young backpackers with its beautiful and pristine surroundings, swimming, fishing, boating, trekking, and fish farming activities. You would get an unforgettable experience walking along the lake and enjoying the view of the lake and mountain range.
5. Chitwan National Park
No matter when you visit Nepal, trekking and exploring in the national parks should be on your must-try activities list. With the rising temperatures in March, it is a good time to see the wild animals in national parks. Among the numerous national parks in Nepal, the Chitwan National Park is the best one. In its area of 932 sq km (360 sq mi), you should get the chance to spot lots of species, including one-horned rhinos, deer, monkeys, leopards, wild elephants, sloth bears, and even the royal Bengal tiger (if you are lucky). Apart from the wildlife watching, you could enjoy a traditional Tharu cultural performance in the park, which includes music, dance, and traditional costumes.
Crowding and Costs in March
With the rising temperature and clear skies, March sees the trekking season kicking in. More and more trekkers and travelers come to Nepal from March onwards. But the trails are not as crowded as in autumn. So, you don't need to worry about crowds in March.
The cost of hotels and tours increase during March, but not yet to high season levels. Contact us — we can do all the research and booking for your ideal trip.
What to Bring/Wear in March
It is pretty cool at night and early in the morning in March in Nepal. So, pack some warm clothes — light sweaters, warm trousers, jeans, a coat, and some lighter clothes to change into according to the temperature.
Most travel destinations in Nepal are dry and warm in March. Rainfall is occasional and usually just light/moderate showers. A light waterproof coat or umbrella is unlikely to be needed as it only rains on an average of 4 days in March.
Explore Nepal with Asia Highlights
If you want to explore Nepal and experience its many delights, get in touch with us. We can help you navigate Nepal's changing seasons and assist you in picking the perfect time to visit its top attractions. With Asia Highlights, You enjoy 100% refund of any payments made to Asia Highlights prior to 3 weeks before departure (detail⇒).
Monthly Weather and Travel Information for Nepal
Learn about the weather in Nepal for 12 months and find out the best places to visit each month.
Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries
At Asia Highlights, we create your kind of journey — your dates, your destinations, at your pace. You can have any trip tailor made for your travel.
