The short answer
In the monsoon, wear light quick-dry clothes, a good rain jacket or poncho, shoes with grip and a dry bag for electronics. Carry insect repellent and spare socks. In winter, Kathmandu and the hills are cold in mornings and evenings, so pack a warm jacket, a fleece, thermals, a hat and gloves, with lighter layers for sunny midday hours.
Layers are the key to both seasons. Hotels may not be heated, so a warm base layer for sleeping helps. In the mountains, winter is much colder, so follow your operator's list for your route.
Key facts
- Monsoon
- Quick-dry clothes, rain jacket, grip shoes
- Winter
- Warm jacket, fleece, thermals, hat, gloves
- Hotels
- May be unheated
- Mountains
- Colder, follow packing list
How it works
- Know your seasonMonsoon or winter.
- Pack layersLight and warm.
- Add rain and gripJacket and shoes.
- Bring a warm sleeping layerFor cold nights.
Insider tip
Pack a warm layer for sleeping in winter.
Avoid this
Do not rely on heavy cotton in damp weather.
Related questions
Do hotels have heaters?
Not always; ask in advance.
Is rain gear needed in the monsoon?
Yes, a good jacket and dry bag.
Plan your Nepal trip in 60 seconds
Answer four short questions. We show trips that fit, and a planner can send a route and price. Free, no payment.
Trips that match this guide
Keep reading
More guides to explore
- More Health, Safety and RescueHealth, rescue and everyday care.
- Visa Extension, Power, SIM and DisruptionsPractical details that smooth a trip.
- Solo, Special and Long-Stay TravellersTravel advice for different kinds of visitors.
- Compare and ChooseSide-by-side answers to choose your Nepal trip.
- All Nepal guidesBrowse every place and theme.
