The short answer
October to March is comfortable for the lowland dhams, while Muktinath is best from March to June and September to November. A good window for all four is October to November and March to April.
Key facts
- Best
- Oct to Nov, Mar to Apr
- Muktinath
- Mar to Jun, Sep to Nov
- Heat
- Apr to Jun in lowlands
- Rain
- Jun to Sep
How it works
- Match season to altitudeMuktinath is high and cold in winter; the lowland dhams are hot in summer.
- Check the festival calendarMaha Shivaratri at Pashupatinath and other festivals bring crowds.
- Book ahead for peak monthsFlights to Jomsom fill quickly.
- Pack for both climatesLight cotton for lowlands and warm layers for Muktinath.
- Keep a buffer dayWeather delays are common in the hills.
Insider tip
Check lunar festival dates; temples are busy on Ekadashi and major festivals.
Avoid this
Do not go to Muktinath in heavy snow without winter gear.
Related questions
Can I do the Char Dham in monsoon?
It is possible but wet, with landslide risks on some roads. Most people avoid it.
Is winter possible?
Muktinath can be reached in winter but is very cold, and flights are less reliable.
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