Trekking in Nepal During Monsoon Season

Not surprisingly, the monsoon months of June through August don’t exactly attract hordes of trekkers to Nepal. Most people predict high temperatures, heavy rains that rinse out bridges and turn roads and paths into ceaseless “slip-n-slides,” frequent transportation delays, intangible mountain views, and leeches in large quantity. Some treks should be avoided in monsoon season, but for certain regions, it’s a great time to visit Nepal: the trails are less crowded, the villages are full of life, and the valleys are in bloom.

Some routes next to the Great Himalaya Trails lie in the rain shadow, a dry area on the leeward side of a mountainous area that blocks the passageway in rainy weather. While favourable forecasts in these parts are not 100% guaranteed, they will generally receive much less rain. Below, we’ve listed treks that are great choices if you’re heading to Nepal during the monsoon season, from shorter to longer durations.

Best Monsoon treks in Nepal
While there is the occasional downpour, trekking in Nepal during the monsoon season (mid-June to early September) has several benefits. Take in fewer people, green valleys, and lively villages. If you want drier circumstances, choose higher-altitude hikes like the Annapurna Circuit and avoid lower-altitude routes that could cause mudslides—Discover Nepal’s natural beauty in all its splendour during this less-travelled but fruitful season.

plan your trek
Exploring Nepal’s Himalayan rain shadow regions during the monsoon unveils a secluded trekking experience amidst stunning landscapes and rich cultural encounters. Regions like Upper Mustang, Upper Dolpo, Nar Phu Valleys, Manang, Upper Annapurna Circuit via Tilicho, Limi Valley, and Lower Dolpo offer ideal escapes with minimal rainfall and pristine trails.

Trekking in these areas during the monsoon ensures a tranquil journey, where trekkers can enjoy undisturbed paths, personalized hospitality in local teahouses, and deeper immersion in the local culture. Whether opting for a shorter trek in Manang or delving into the remote wonders of Upper Mustang or Dolpo, each route promises solitude and a closer connection to Nepal’s rugged beauty and hospitable communities. Embrace the monsoon season for a uniquely intimate adventure in Nepal’s rain shadow regions, where every step unveils a blend of natural splendour and cultural richness.

Upper Mustang
The Upper Mustang offers a unique chance to explore a pristine environment with environmental significance, showcasing vibrant wildflower gardens, buckwheat, and verdant barley fields, providing a captivating and visually appealing experience during the monsoon season.

Upper Mustang is home to numerous old Tibetan Buddhist traditions, making it a cultural gold mine. Visitors can explore historic settlements like Lo Manthang, where the architecture and habits of the locals reflect centuries of history, as well as old monasteries and finely carved caves. Because there are fewer tourists in the area during the monsoon, you may get a close-up look at the environment and culture of the area. To ensure that trekkers have a greater understanding of Upper Mustang’s distinct charm and the friendliness of its welcoming inhabitants, Highland Eco Trek provides guided excursions that emphasize sustainable tourism and genuine interactions.

Annapurna circuit trail via Tilicho Lake
Start on the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake, a trek renowned for its stunning landscapes, including verdant valleys adorned with wildflowers like buckwheat. This route offers solitude compared to more popular trails, allowing for a deeper connection with nature and culture. The journey culminates at Tilicho Lake, the world’s highest glacial lake, where its pristine blue waters reflect the surrounding snow-capped peaks.

Manang Valley, part of this trekking route, is renowned as a habitat for the elusive snow leopard, adding to the region’s allure for wildlife enthusiasts. Highland Eco Trek provides expert guidance, ensuring a safe and culturally immersive experience throughout the journey. With their knowledgeable local guides, trekkers can explore ancient monasteries, interact with hospitable villagers, and enjoy panoramic views that make the Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho Lake one of the finest trekking routes in Nepal.

Limi valley Trek
Trekking in the Limi Valley during the monsoon offers an opportunity to explore Nepal’s hidden treasure, known for its stunning scenery and diverse cultural heritage. Tucked away in a remote western area close to the Tibetan border, Limi Valley offers placid valleys decorated with lush farms and clear lakes echoing the high hills.

Cultural interactions can be had on the walk-in isolated communities that still practice Tibetan Buddhism from long ago, where ancient rituals and traditions are preserved with reverence and authenticity. Discover the everyday routines and habits of the hospitable locals as they explore centuries-old monasteries and engage in polite conversation.

The wildlife in Limi Valley adds to its allure, with opportunities to spot Himalayan wildlife amidst the rugged terrain. Highland Eco Trek organizes guided tours that highlight both the natural and cultural splendours of the region, including views of Mount Kailash from strategic viewpoints along the trek. This combination of untouched wilderness, cultural richness, and panoramic vistas makes the Limi Valley trek a truly immersive and unforgettable experience for adventurous travellers.

Upper Dolpo
The Upper Dolpo trek offers a mesmerizing journey through Nepal’s remote landscapes, highlighted by the turquoise waters of Phoksundo Lake and expansive valleys framed by rugged peaks. This region is steeped in Bonpo Buddhism, an ancient spiritual tradition predating Tibetan Buddhism, enriching the trek with unique cultural insights and ancient rituals.

Trekking through high-altitude passes, such as the challenging Kang La Pass, rewards adventurers with panoramic vistas and a sense of accomplishment. Upper Dolpo is also renowned for its diverse wildlife, including elusive snow leopards and wild foxes, which thrive in the pristine wilderness.

Highland Eco Trek provides expert guidance, ensuring a safe and insightful expedition into this remote realm. Their local guides offer deep knowledge of the terrain, cultural nuances, and wildlife habits, enhancing the trekking experience with meaningful encounters and a profound appreciation for Upper Dolpo’s natural and cultural treasures.

Nar Phu Valley
Nar Phu Valley, nestled in the rain shadow of the Annapurna region, offers a glimpse into Tibetan culture amidst its hidden treasures along the Annapurna Circuit. This secluded area boasts ancient monasteries, traditional Tibetan villages, and a serene landscape dotted with high alpine meadows. Nearby Manang Valley serves as a wildlife haven, including the elusive snow leopard.
Highland Eco Trek provides expert guidance, ensuring a culturally enriching and environmentally responsible journey through this lesser-known gem of the Himalayas.

Plan your unforgettable trip to Nepal during the monsoon season and experience the Himalayas in all their diverse glory. While the lower hilly regions may experience occasional rains, the high Himalayas beckon with thrilling adventures amidst breathtaking vistas and blooming wildflowers. Join Highland Eco Trek for expert guidance to discover the hidden gems and scenic wonders of Nepal. Their knowledgeable local guides ensure a safe and enriching journey through beautiful landscapes, ancient temples, and vibrant villages. Whether trekking through the lush greenery of lower regions or scaling the heights for panoramic views, Highland Eco Trek offers a curated experience that combines exploration with cultural immersion. Embrace the monsoon season in Nepal for a unique perspective on its natural beauty and rich heritage, making memories that will last a lifetime.