The short answer
Light layers and modest clothing work best: cover shoulders and knees at temples, bring a warm layer for evenings and the mountains, and wear good walking shoes. Sun protection matters at altitude.
Nepal is relaxed about clothing in tourist areas, but modest dress is more comfortable and respectful in temples, villages and when visiting homes. Layers let you adjust to a day that can start cold and end warm.
Key facts
- Temples
- Cover shoulders, knees
- Layers
- Warm evenings
- Shoes
- Comfortable
- Sun
- Hat and cream
How it works
- Pack in layersBring a base layer, a warm mid layer and an outer shell so you can adjust through the day.
- Add rain protectionCarry a light waterproof jacket or poncho, especially from late spring to early autumn.
- Bring modest clothesPack trousers or long skirts and tops with sleeves for temples and village visits.
- Pack shoes with gripChoose comfortable shoes for towns and sturdy, broken-in boots for any trek.
- Add sun gearPack a hat, sunglasses, sun cream and lip balm for bright, high places.
What to wear in towns and temples
In Kathmandu, Pokhara and other towns, light cotton or quick-dry clothes suit most of the year. Loose trousers, long skirts, kurtas and shirts with sleeves are cool and appropriate. A scarf is useful for the sun, for dust and to cover your shoulders at temples.
Shoes come off at many temples and homes, so slip-on shoes or sandals are practical. Bring a light rain jacket for the monsoon and a fleece or jacket for winter evenings, when hotels are not always heated.
What changes in the mountains
Weather in the mountains can change fast. Wear a base layer, a warm mid layer and a windproof, waterproof shell, and add a hat, gloves and warm socks for high places. Avoid cotton on a trek because it stays wet and cold.
Sun is strong at height. Bring a brimmed hat, sunglasses and high-protection sun cream and lip balm. Broken-in boots with good grip matter more than any other piece of gear. See the what-to-wear answers for activities from safaris to pilgrimages.
Insider tip
Pack a light scarf; it is useful for sun, dust and temples.
Avoid this
Do not wear shorts or sleeveless tops inside temples.
Related questions
Is it okay to wear shorts?
Knee-length shorts are fine in many tourist areas, but long trousers are better at temples and in villages.
Can I buy gear in Kathmandu?
Yes. Thamel has many shops for trekking gear, from jackets to boots, and gear can be rented. Check quality and fit before you buy.
What do women wear?
Loose trousers, long skirts or a kurta with a scarf work well. See the what to wear for women answer.
Do I need formal clothes?
Rarely. Smart casual is fine for restaurants and events.
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