Weather in Катманду by month: what to expect

Катманду enjoys a subtropical highland climate, with distinct dry and wet seasons. From November to March, the weather in Катманду is cool and dry, making it a comfortable time to explore the city’s temples and streets. April and May bring warmer days, with temperatures rising before the monsoon arrives.

The rainy season in Катманду starts in June and lasts through September, bringing frequent showers and high humidity. While the rain can disrupt outdoor plans, it also transforms the landscape into lush greenery. By October, the weather in Катманду stabilizes again, offering clear skies and mild temperatures for travelers.

In Катманду, temperatures vary significantly between seasons. January is the coldest month, with average highs of +18.6 °C and lows dropping to +4.7 °C at night. By March, the days warm up to +25.5 °C, while nights remain cool at +10.7 °C.

April and May are the warmest months in Катманду, with daytime temperatures reaching +28.8 °C and +28.4 °C, respectively. Evenings stay mild, around +13.7 °C to +16.7 °C. The monsoon season cools things slightly, with July and August averaging +28.6 °C to +29.2 °C, but the humidity makes it feel warmer.

By October, temperatures in Катманду become pleasant again, with highs of +26.9 °C and lows of +15.3 °C. November and December bring cooler weather, with nights dipping to +9.7 °C and +5.7 °C, while daytime highs hover around +22.9 °C and +19.1 °C.

Катманду has a pronounced dry season from October to May, with minimal rainfall. November and December are the driest months, averaging just 4.5 mm and 1.3 mm of precipitation, respectively. Even in January and February, rain is rare, with totals under 20 mm per month.

The monsoon season transforms Катманду from June to September, with heavy rainfall peaking in July at 440.9 mm. June and August also see significant precipitation, with 284.4 mm and 281.3 mm, respectively. The rain often comes in short, intense bursts, so waterproof gear is essential during these months.

By October, the rains in Катманду taper off, with just 63.4 mm of precipitation. The transition months of April and May see a gradual increase in rainfall, with 59.3 mm and 114.9 mm, respectively, signaling the start of the wet season.

For a trip to Катманду in the cooler months of November to February, pack layers to handle the temperature shifts. Mornings and evenings can be chilly, around +5 °C to +10 °C, so a warm jacket or fleece is useful. Daytime temperatures are mild, so lighter clothing works for exploring the city.

From March to May, Катманду warms up, so breathable fabrics like cotton or linen are ideal. A light jacket or shawl is still handy for cooler evenings. If visiting during the monsoon season, from June to September, waterproof footwear, a compact umbrella, and quick-dry clothing are must-haves to stay comfortable in the rain.

For October, pack a mix of light layers and a light rain jacket, as occasional showers can still occur. Sunglasses and sunscreen are useful year-round in Катманду, as the sun can be strong even on cooler days. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for navigating the city’s uneven streets and temple complexes.