Traveling to Nepal in the summer

Hello,

It’s so great to be able to write on this site again—it was such a valuable resource during my travels in the past! We’re planning a 6-week trip (as a couple) to Nepal in July and August. It’s not the ideal time, I know, but you’ve probably guessed we don’t really have a choice. I’ve read briefly that it’s doable, that it limits some options (but hey, we always have to make choices anyway), but at least there’s the advantage of not being there during peak season. Do any of you have experience or advice to share about this? Any tips or opinions?

Thanks, and welcome back to everyone on Voyage Forum! Thérèse

Hi there,

This really isn’t the best time to visit Nepal. You’re right in the middle of monsoon season—July and August are the two wettest months of the year. Roads being cut off and landslides are pretty common. One region that’s still accessible (by air) and stands out is Upper Mustang. Since it’s located behind the Annapurna barrier (8,000m), the monsoon rarely reaches it. Until recently, the only way to get there was on foot from the "town" of Jomsom, which you could reach by plane from Pokhara (or by jeep in the dry season). This area, which was long cut off from the world and truly off the beaten path, was only accessible to trekking enthusiasts. If you’re into trekking, I’d especially recommend Upper Mustang—it was a forbidden Tibetan kingdom for a long time. Its "capital," Lo Manthang, is a stunning medieval fortified city! Since the Chinese built a road connecting Mustang to Tibet, it’s now possible to visit this "Little Tibet" by jeep. Whether you go on foot or by jeep, you *must* book through an agency to get a special permit allowing you to enter Upper Mustang from the "border post" at Kagbeni. The permit costs $500 for 10 days, plus $50 for each additional day. On top of that, you’ll have to cover agency fees (transport, accommodation, food, guide, flights, etc.). If you’re interested, look up agencies online that offer Upper Mustang trips. Personally, I went with Nepal Ecology Trek, but I don’t think they offer jeep tours.

Hello,

Even though the monsoon isn’t traditionally the best season for a trip to our country, Nepal, it’s climatically diverse enough to offer opportunities even during this time. Since you have 6 weeks and if you're thinking of exploring the country more deeply, trekking and visiting Upper Dolpo, Lower Dolpo, and Upper Mustang are highly recommended. These are some of Nepal’s most remote regions, but you’ll not only experience the country’s authenticity but also meet true mountain people. Welcome to Nepal. Adventure!!!

Yes, Upper Dolpo... Phoksumdo Lake, the Tarap Valley, Shey Gompa the Crystal Monastery... Saldang. It's really sporty and a true adventure out there! You're far from everything, with several passes over 5,000m, and if the weather conditions are bad... No drivable track for the return trip... You have to wait for the helicopter! !

Just a word to say I’m also happy to see this forum active again— have a great trip!

Hello,

It’s such a joy to be able to write on this site again—it was so invaluable during my past travels! We’re planning a 6-week trip (as a couple) to Nepal in July and August. It’s not the ideal time, I know, but you’ve probably guessed we don’t really have a choice. I’ve read briefly that it’s doable, that it limits some options (but hey, we always have to make choices anyway), but at least there’s the advantage of avoiding peak season. Do any of you have experience or advice to share about traveling there during this time?

Thanks, and welcome back to everyone on Voyage Forum! Thérèse

Hi Thérèse,

Yes, it’s great to be able to exchange on VF again! 🙂

Basically, treks are possible in Nepal during the summer once you reach the northern areas above 8,000 meters.

I’m not familiar with Upper Dolpo, but I’ve been to Upper Mustang. That was in October a few years ago. I know someone who went there with her family in July. It was less cold, of course, but the sun was also more "shy." An important factor to consider is transportation to Jomsom. Flights can be delayed or canceled during the monsoon season, and by bus, landslides aren’t unheard of. That said, with 6 weeks in Nepal, you’ll have time to adapt... It’s true that the best time for trekking in Nepal is still from mid-October, or even late October, November, or early spring. Personally, I really don’t like hiking in the rain when you can’t see anything! Otherwise, summer is a great time for trekking in Ladakh and Central Asia.

Happy planning!

Anne-Claire