The short answer
In the Khumbu, the clearest and most popular months are October and November, when skies are crisp, trails are dry and daytime walking is comfortable, though nights are cold. March, April and May bring warmer air, rhododendron flowers on the lower slopes and busy trails; afternoon cloud and haze are common, and high winds can reach the upper mountain.
June to September is monsoon: heavy cloud, rain at lower elevations and frequent flight disruption, with leeches and slippery trails below Namche, though a few hardy trekkers enjoy the green and quiet. December to February is very cold with short days, strong winds and snow on passes, but the sky can be sharply clear and crowds are thin.
Key facts
- Oct to Nov
- Clear, dry, cold nights
- Mar to May
- Warmer, flowers, afternoon cloud
- Jun to Sep
- Monsoon, cloud, flight delays
- Dec to Feb
- Very cold, clear, quiet
How it works
- Pick a windowUse the best time guide.
- Plan for flightsSee delays and cancellations.
- Pack by seasonWarm layers year-round; see temperature.
- Allow buffer daysAt least one on each end.
- Track the forecastCheck a mountain-specific forecast the day before.
Month by month in the Khumbu
October and November: clear, dry and cold at night. December to February: very cold, often brilliantly clear, with snow possible on passes. March to May: warmer, afternoon cloud, flowers on lower slopes. June to September: monsoon cloud and rain, with leeches on lower trails and frequent flight delays.
Even in the best months, weather is changeable in the mountains. A bright morning can turn cloudy by afternoon, and wind increases with height.
Packing for the weather
Layers matter more than a single heavy jacket: base layer, fleece, down jacket, waterproof shell, warm hat and gloves. A sleeping bag rated for the season is useful, and lodges provide blankets but they are not always enough. See the packing list.
Insider tip
Always plan a spare day for flights to and from Lukla.
Avoid this
Do not plan a tight international connection straight after a Lukla flight.
Related questions
Is spring or autumn better?
Autumn is usually clearer; spring has flowers and warmer days but more haze.
Can I trek in monsoon?
Yes, but expect rain, clouds and flight delays.
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