Nepal’s summer season, stretching from June to August, coincides with the monsoon, a time often overlooked by trekkers due to frequent rainfall. However, summer trekking in Nepal offers a unique experience for those seeking lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and off-the-beaten-path adventures. While the popular high-altitude routes of the Everest and Annapurna regions may be challenging due to heavy rain, landslides, and leeches, several rain-shadow areas remain ideal for summer trekking.

The standout feature of trekking in Nepal during the summer(Monsoon) is the dramatic transformation of the terrain. Hills and valleys turn vibrant green, rivers swell with monsoon-fed waters, and terraced fields come alive with activity. The air is rich with the scent of wet earth and blooming wildflowers. Morning views can be breathtakingly clear before the clouds build up in the afternoon, and the atmosphere is peaceful due to fewer tourists.

Among the best summer trekking destinations are Upper Mustang and Dolpo, both situated in the trans-Himalayan region. These areas lie in the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges and receive minimal rainfall. The Upper Mustang Trek offers a rare look into the preserved Tibetan culture, with arid desert-like scenery, ancient caves, and monasteries. Similarly, Upper Dolpo Trek takes you through remote highland settlements, crystal-clear lakes like Phoksundo, and untouched wilderness. These regions require special permits due to their restricted status, but the reward is an immersive, crowd-free trekking experience.

Another viable option is the Nar Phu Valley Trek, which also lies in a rain-shadow zone and reveals hidden valleys near the Annapurna Circuit. This route is rich in culture and Himalayan scenery but less frequented, making it ideal for solitude seekers.

One of the advantages of summer trekking is the availability and affordability of services. With fewer trekkers around, tea houses and guides are more flexible in pricing and scheduling. Trails are less busy, allowing for a more intimate interaction with nature and local communities. For photographers and nature lovers, the monsoon provides an excellent opportunity to capture Nepal’s vibrant flora, active wildlife, and dramatic skies.

However, summer trekking comes with challenges. The lower trails can be muddy and slippery. Leeches are common in forested and humid areas, particularly in mid-hill regions. Afternoon storms are frequent, and visibility may be limited. Proper preparation is essential: lightweight rain gear, leech repellents, quick-dry clothing, and sturdy trekking boots are a must. Trekkers should be ready for itinerary changes due to weather conditions.

In conclusion, while summer is not the peak trekking season in Nepal, it offers adventurous travelers a chance to explore less-traveled routes in peaceful, lush environments. The key is choosing the right destination—preferably in the rain-shadow zones—and preparing well. For those who venture out, summer trekking in Nepal promises an unforgettable blend of nature, solitude, and cultural richness that is hard to find during the busier spring and autumn seasons.

Is It Possible to do Trek in Nepal in Summer Season?

Yes, it is absolutely possible to trek in Nepal during the summer season, but with careful planning, proper gear, and destination selection. The summer season in Nepal lasts from June to August, and it coincides with the monsoon — a period characterized by frequent rainfall, warm temperatures, lush vegetation, and occasional travel disruptions due to weather-related issues.

Understanding the Summer Season (Monsoon) in Nepal

• Weather: Summer brings hot and humid weather in the lower elevations and regular rainfall across most parts of the country, especially in the evenings and nights.
• Temperature: Daytime temperatures in the lower hills range from 25°C to 35°C, while higher elevations are cooler.
• Rainfall: Afternoon showers are common, and skies are often cloudy, though mornings can be clear with beautiful views.
• Trail Conditions: Trails can be muddy, slippery, and prone to leeches, especially in forested and low-altitude regions.

Yes, It’s Possible to do Trek in Nepal During Summer Season– But Choose the Right Regions!

While most trekking areas receive heavy rainfall, some regions lie in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, making them ideal for summer treks:

1. Upper Mustang Trek

• Rain-shadow area behind the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
• Dry, desert-like terrain with minimal rainfall.
• Offers Tibetan culture, ancient caves, and walled cities like Lo Manthang.
• Requires a special permit (restricted area).

2. Upper Dolpo Trek

• Another rain-shadow area in the far west of Nepal.
• Known for Shey Phoksundo Lake, remote villages, and pristine nature.
• Demanding trek requiring camping and logistics support.
• Very few trekkers during this season.

3. Nar Phu Valley Trek

• Located near the Annapurna Circuit, but drier and less affected by rain.
• Hidden valleys, Tibetan-influenced culture, and remote trails.
• Less crowded and peaceful.

Advantages of Summer Season Trek in Nepal

• Fewer crowds on the trails and in tea houses.
• Lush landscapes: Green forests, rice terraces, waterfalls, and vibrant flora.
• Cultural interaction: Farmers are active in the fields, and local life is lively.
• Affordable options: Off-season rates for accommodation, guides, and permits.

Challenges and What to Prepare For Monsoon Season Trek in Nepal

Challenge	Preparation Tip
Rain and slippery trails	Waterproof boots, rain jacket, gaiters
Leeches in lower areas	Salt spray, leech socks, insect repellent
Cloudy/misty views	Plan early-morning hikes for clearer skies
Flight delays/cancellations	Allow buffer days in your schedule
Muddy terrain	Trekking poles and quick-dry clothes

Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Summer Trek in Nepal

• Hire a local guide familiar with alternative routes and local weather.
• Start early in the morning to avoid afternoon rain.
• Stay informed about weather forecasts and trail conditions.
• Avoid landslide-prone areas and choose treks above 3,000 meters.

Trekking in Nepal during the summer season is possible and can be very rewarding — if you choose the right destinations in rain-shadow regions and are well-prepared. While it’s not ideal for everyone, it offers a unique, peaceful, and culturally rich experience for adventurous travelers.

Pro and Cons of Doing Trek in Nepal in Summer (Monsoon)

Trekking in Nepal during the summer season (June to August), which overlaps with the monsoon, has both unique advantages and distinct challenges. Here’s a clear breakdown:

Pros of Summer Season Trekking in Nepal

1. Rain-Shadow Treks Are Perfect
   • Regions like Upper Mustang, Dolpo, and Nar Phu Valley receive very little rainfall due to their location behind the Himalayan ranges.
   • These treks are dry, scenic, and culturally rich.
2. Lush Greenery & Vibrant Nature
   • Hills and valleys are alive with greenery, wildflowers, and flowing rivers.
   • Ideal for nature lovers and photographers.
3. Less Crowded Trails
   • Fewer tourists mean peaceful trekking experiences, more intimate interactions with locals, and quiet tea houses.
4. Off-Season Discounts
   • Accommodation, guide/porter fees, and some services are cheaper during the monsoon.
   • Easier to get permit approvals and bookings.
5. Local Cultural Activities
   • Farmers are busy with planting season—great for witnessing authentic rural life.
   • Monsoon festivals like Ropain (rice planting) are culturally immersive.
6. Morning Views Can Be Clear
   • Though afternoons are often cloudy, early mornings may offer stunning mountain views.

Cons of Summer Trekking in Nepal

1. Heavy Rainfall
   • Most regions experience daily showers, especially in the afternoons and nights, making trails muddy and slippery.
2. Leeches and Insects
   • Leeches are common in forested and humid areas below 2,000 meters.
   • Bugs and mosquitoes can be annoying at lower elevations.
3. Cloudy and Obstructed Views
   • Mountains may be hidden behind clouds, limiting panoramic views.
4. Trail & Transportation Issues
   • Risk of landslides, floods, and flight delays (especially to/from Lukla or Jomsom).
   • Some remote trails may be impassable.
5. Limited Trekking Options
   • Popular treks like Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Base Camp are not ideal in summer.
   • Trekkers are restricted to few rain-shadow regions.
6. Higher Risk of Infections & Hygiene Issues
   • Wet and warm conditions increase the risk of foot blisters, fungal infections, and food spoilage.

Trekking in Nepal during the summer monsoon season is not for everyone, but it can be very rewarding for those who are flexible, well-prepared, and choose the right locations. The key is to trek in rain-shadow areas, go early in the day, and pack appropriately. If you value solitude, greenery, and cultural richness over classic mountain views, summer trekking in Nepal might be your hidden gem. Season

Which is the Best Trekking Option in Monsoon Season in Nepal?

Trekking in Nepal during the Monsoon season (June to August) might sound challenging due to monsoon rains, but it’s entirely possible—and even highly rewarding—if you choose the right trails. While the classic trekking regions like Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Base Camp, or Langtang are heavily affected by rain, landslides, and poor visibility, rain-shadow regions on the northern side of the Himalayas remain mostly dry and ideal for trekking.

Below is a detailed overview of the best summer trekking destinations in Nepal:

Upper Mustang Trek – The Forbidden Kingdom

Region: Mustang District (north of Annapurna)
Trek Duration: 10–15 days
Altitude: Max ~3,800 m (Lo Manthang)
Difficulty: Moderate
Permit: Restricted Area Permit (USD 500 for 10 days)

Highlights:

• Lies in the rain-shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, making it dry even in monsoon.
• Visit the ancient walled city of Lo Manthang, former capital of the Mustang Kingdom.
• Explore Buddhist monasteries, centuries-old cave dwellings, and Tibetan culture.
• Desert-like landscapes with red cliffs, eroded canyons, and unique Himalayan views.
• Ideal for cultural immersion with comfortable tea house accommodations.

Best For: Cultural explorers, off-season trekkers, and photographers.

Upper Dolpo Trek – The Untouched Wilderness

Region: Dolpa District, Mid-Western Nepal
Trek Duration: 18–25 days
Altitude: Max ~5,190 m (Kang La Pass)
Difficulty: Strenuous (long, remote, and high-altitude)
Permit: Restricted Area Permit + additional local fees

Highlights:

• Remote and culturally isolated region with strong ties to ancient Tibetan traditions.
• Trek through Shey Phoksundo National Park, home to rare wildlife like snow leopards and blue sheep.
• Visit Shey Phoksundo Lake, known for its turquoise color and peaceful surroundings.
• Rustic villages, high passes, and traditional Bon Buddhist monasteries.
• Requires camping and self-sufficiency in some areas, though some basic lodges exist.

Best For: Experienced trekkers, cultural adventurers, and wilderness lovers.

Nar Phu Valley Trek – Hidden Himalayan Valleys

Region: Annapurna Region (north-east)
Trek Duration: 10–14 days
Altitude: Max ~5,320 m (Kang La Pass)
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Permit: Restricted Area Permit (USD 90/week)

Highlights:

• A less-traveled route combining rugged mountain scenery with ancient Tibetan culture.
• Remote stone villages, narrow gorges, and old monasteries.
• Drier than Annapurna Base Camp due to its location behind the Annapurna Massif.
• Offers a mix of raw nature and cultural insight into the Himalayan lifestyle.

Best For: Trekkers looking for a secluded experience within a known trekking region.

Lower Mustang Trek (Jomsom to Muktinath) – Spiritual and Scenic

Region: Mustang (southern area)
Trek Duration: 5–8 days
Altitude: Max ~3,800 m (Muktinath)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Permit: Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

Highlights:

• Shorter and more accessible alternative to Upper Mustang.
• Visit the sacred Muktinath Temple, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists.
• Enjoy the wind-swept Kali Gandaki Valley, apple orchards in Marpha, and Thakali villages.
• Accessible by flight from Pokhara to Jomsom (weather permitting).

Best For: Beginners, spiritual seekers, and short-term trekkers.

Rara Lake Trek – Nepal’s Hidden Gem

Region: Mugu District, Northwestern Nepal
Trek Duration: 8–12 days
Altitude: Max ~3,710 m (Rara Lake)
Difficulty: Moderate
Permit: Rara National Park Entry Fee

Highlights:

• Trek to Nepal’s largest lake, surrounded by lush forests and snow-capped peaks.
• Ideal during summer as rainfall is relatively low in the northwest.
• Peaceful, isolated, and incredibly scenic—perfect for nature lovers.
• Local culture of the Thakuri and Chhetri communities can be observed.

Best For: Nature lovers, photographers, and those looking for quiet off-the-grid trekking.

Tips for Successful Summer Trekking in Nepal

• Choose rain-shadow regions to avoid downpours and trail issues.
• Start early in the morning to avoid afternoon rains.
• Bring rainproof gear, including ponchos, waterproof boots, and quick-dry clothing.
• Use leech socks or salt sprays in forested areas.
• Be flexible with your itinerary to account for possible weather-related delays.

While monsoon season is not the typical time for trekking in Nepal, it opens up a whole new world of less-crowded trails, culturally rich encounters, and serene landscapes. Treks like Upper Mustang, Upper Dolpo, and Nar Phu provide excellent summer trekking opportunities, offering a side of Nepal that remains hidden during the peak seasons.

If you’re prepared for the challenges and ready for something different, trekking in Nepal in the summer can be one of the most unique and rewarding adventures you’ll ever undertake.

Things to Remember Before Doing Trekking in Nepal During Monsoon Season

Trekking in Nepal during the Monsoon season (June to August) can be an amazing and peaceful experience—if you’re well-prepared. The summer coincides with the monsoon, which brings frequent rain, slippery trails, and limited visibility in many parts of the country. However, trekking in rain-shadow regions like Upper Mustang, Dolpo, and Nar Phu Valley is still very much possible and rewarding.

Here are the key things to remember before doing summer trekking in Nepal:

1. Choose the Right Trekking Destination

• Avoid heavily rain-affected routes like Annapurna Base Camp, Everest Base Camp, or Langtang Valley.
• Opt for rain-shadow areas:
  • Upper Mustang Trek
  • Upper Dolpo Trek
  • Nar Phu Valley Trek
  • Lower Mustang (Jomsom–Muktinath)

2. Pack Waterproof and Lightweight Gear

• Rain jacket/poncho (with hood)
• Waterproof backpack cover
• Quick-dry clothing (avoid cotton)
• Waterproof boots with good grip
• Gaiters (to prevent mud/water from entering boots)
• Dry bags or ziplocks to protect electronics and documents

3. Protect Yourself from Leeches

• Leeches are common in forested and humid areas.
• Carry:
  • Leech socks
  • Salt water spray
  • Dettol or antiseptic
  • Long trekking pants tucked into socks

4. Expect Cloudy Weather & Limited Mountain Views

• Don’t always expect clear views of the mountains.
• Early mornings are usually best for clearer skies.
• Bring a good camera rain cover if you’re into photography.

5. Start Early, Finish Early

• Rain typically arrives in the afternoons or evenings.
• Begin trekking by 6–7 AM to avoid getting soaked later in the day.
• Plan shorter trekking days if possible.

6. Check Accommodation Availability

• In off-season, some teahouses may be closed, especially in remote regions.
• Confirm in advance or travel with a guide who knows which lodges are open.

7. Be Flexible with Travel Plans

• Flight delays (especially to/from Jomsom, Lukla, and remote areas) are common due to bad weather.
• Allow 1–2 buffer days in your itinerary.
• Stay informed on trail and road conditions.

8. Hire a Local Guide or Porter

• They are familiar with monsoon routes, alternate trails, and weather patterns.
• Can assist in case of emergencies, route confusion, or landslides.

9. Keep Emergency Essentials Handy

• First aid kit (especially for wet foot conditions or leech bites)
• Headlamp/torch with extra batteries
• Power bank for phones or GPS
• Snacks (in case of limited teahouse availability)

10. Be Cautious About Food & Water

• Wet conditions can cause food spoilage or water contamination.
• Stick to hot, cooked meals.
• Always use water purification tablets or carry a filter bottle.

11. Stay Mentally Flexible

• Weather can shift quickly.
• Treks may not go as planned.
• Embrace the unexpected beauty of the monsoon: flowing waterfalls, vibrant forests, and peaceful trails.

Trekking in summer requires more preparation than in peak seasons, but if you choose the right region and gear up properly, it can be a truly magical and unique experience. Avoid popular trails prone to landslides and focus on Nepal’s dry highlands and culturally rich trans-Himalayan areas.

FAQs: Nepal Trekking During Summer Season

Here are the most frequently asked questions (FAQs) about trekking in Nepal during the summer/monsoon season (June–August), with clear and helpful answers:

1. Can I trek in Nepal during the summer/monsoon season?

Yes, trekking is possible in Nepal during summer, especially in rain-shadow regions like Upper Mustang, Dolpo, and Nar Phu Valley, which receive very little rainfall.

2. Which are the best treks to do in the summer season?

The best summer treks in Nepal include:

• Upper Mustang Trek
• Upper Dolpo Trek
• Nar Phu Valley Trek
• Lower Mustang (Jomsom–Muktinath) Trek
• Rara Lake Trek (less rainfall compared to central regions)

3. Are Everest and Annapurna Base Camp treks suitable in summer?

Generally, no. These areas receive heavy rain, suffer from landslides, slippery trails, and poor visibility. It’s best to avoid them in the monsoon unless you are well-prepared and experienced.

4. Is summer trekking cheaper?

Yes. Summer is off-season, so:

• Tea houses offer lower rates
• Fewer crowds mean negotiable prices
• Guides and porters may be available at discounted rates

5. Are leeches a problem while trekking in summer?

Yes, especially in humid and forested areas below 2,000 meters.
Protection Tips:

• Wear leech socks
• Carry salt water spray or Dettol
• Avoid shorts or open footwear

6. Will I still get mountain views in summer?

Yes, but not always. Early mornings are usually clear, but afternoons are often cloudy or rainy. Rain-shadow areas offer better visibility than central regions.

7. What should I pack for summer trekking in Nepal?

Must-have items:

• Waterproof rain gear
• Quick-dry clothes
• Leech protection
• Waterproof boots and backpack cover
• First aid kit and water purification tablets

8. What are the main risks of summer trekking?

• Slippery trails
• Landslides in some areas
• Flight delays or cancellations
• Limited visibility
• Wet gear and clothing (leads to blisters/infections)

9. Do I need a special permit for summer trekking?

Yes, for restricted areas like Upper Mustang and Dolpo, you need:

• Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
• ACAP/MCAP permits (Annapurna/Manaslu region)
  Your trekking agency or guide will usually arrange these.

10. Should I hire a guide or go solo?

Highly recommended to hire a guide:

• Trails can be tricky during rain.
• Guides help navigate safe routes, provide local insights, and assist in emergencies.
• Required for restricted area treks like Upper Mustang and Dolpo.

11. Is travel insurance required for summer trekking?

Yes. Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and helicopter evacuation is essential, especially in remote or restricted areas.

12. Is it worth trekking in summer despite the rain?

Absolutely—if you choose the right region and are prepared. You’ll enjoy lush greenery, quiet trails, authentic cultural experiences, and off-season advantages that many miss.

Final Thought: Nepal Trekking During the Summer (Monsoon) Season

Trekking in Nepal during the summer season is often misunderstood due to the challenges posed by the monsoon. While it’s true that heavy rainfall, leeches, slippery trails, and flight delays can affect certain parts of the country, trekking is still very much possible—and deeply rewarding—if you choose the right locations.

Rain-shadow regions like Upper Mustang, Upper Dolpo, and Nar Phu Valley remain dry, culturally rich, and scenically stunning even in the heart of the monsoon. These destinations offer a rare chance to explore less-traveled trails, immerse yourself in Tibetan-influenced mountain culture, and enjoy peaceful trekking experiences with minimal crowds.

The key to a successful summer trek lies in careful preparation, smart packing, choosing the right routes, and being mentally flexible. With fewer tourists, lush landscapes, and off-season prices, summer trekking in Nepal is an underrated gem for adventurers seeking something different.

In short, yes—you can trek in Nepal during summer. Do your research, go prepared, and embrace the unique beauty of monsoon-season Himalayas.