Karnali: Surkhet, Jumla, Humla and Dolpo · Plan it

When is the best time to visit Karnali?

By Base Camp Tours, licensed Nepal travel agency (Tourism License 3121/080) · Updated · 1 min read

The short answer

Spring (April to early June) and autumn (September to November) give the clearest views and the most comfortable trekking for most routes, including Rara and Phoksundo. Summer brings rain and cloud on the lower trails but makes the high, dry valleys of Dolpo and Limi most accessible. Winter is very cold and closes high passes.

For Surkhet and the hill towns, the dry cooler months from October to March are comfortable. Always check flight schedules, because they thin out in the monsoon.

Key facts

Best
Apr to Jun, Sept to Nov
Dolpo and Limi
Summer window
Winter
Cold, passes closed
Lowlands
Oct to Mar

How it works

  1. Pick the placeRara, Dolpo, Limi or Surkhet.
  2. Match the monthSee the facts.
  3. Check flightsSeasonal.
  4. Add spare daysWeather.

Insider tip

Pick your target place first, then the month.

Avoid this

Do not plan high passes in winter.

Related questions

Is monsoon travel possible?

Yes to Dolpo and Limi, with care; not ideal elsewhere.

Snow at Rara?

Yes in winter and early spring.

Quick trip match

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.

Keep reading

More guides to explore

Talk to a planner

Tell us the dates. We will draw the route.

Send your dates, group size and budget. A planner replies with a route, hotels and a clear price, free and with no obligation.

  • Licensed agency, Tourism License 3121/080
  • Own full-time guides and drivers
  • Private and customised departures