Are you planning a trip to Nepal in May? Read on to learn more about May weather in Nepal, clothes to wear for the weather, and best places to visit in Nepal in May.
Nepal Weather in May: Overview
- Average temperature range: 17–30°C (63–86°F)
- Rainfall: 80–360 mm (3–14 inches), depending on location
- Rainy days: 10–15
- Sunny days: 15–20
May is the first summer month of the year in Nepal. The weather is generally warm during the daytime and cool at night, with an average daily temperature range of 17°C to 30°C. In highland or mountain areas, nighttime temperatures can drop to around 5–10°C (41-50°F). Rainfall increases in the latter half of May, with occasional rain or thunderstorms towards the end of the month.
Nepal's Major Cities' Weather in May
| City | Min. Temp. (ºC) | Max. Temp. (ºC) | Rainfall (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kathmandu | 15 | 28 | 124 |
| Pokhara | 18 | 30 | 360 |
| Bharatpur (Chitwan) | 17 | 28 | 30 |
Kathmandu (also Patan/Lalitpur): Kathmandu experiences warm and pleasant weather in May. The lowest temperature at night is around 15°C (59°F), and the highest temperature during daytime reaches around 28°C (82°F). Rainfall in May typically lasts for about 12 days with precipitation averaging 124 mm (5 inches).
Pokhara: The weather in Pokhara in May is warm and wet with plenty of sunshine in between the cloudbursts. Temperatures range from 18°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F), typically. Rainfall in this month is about 360 mm (14 inches), which is very high, with rain on about 17 days.
Bharatpur (also Chitwan): Bharatpur is typically warm and sunny in May, with daytime temperatures averaging around 28°C (82°F) and nighttime temperatures dropping to around 17°C (62°F). Low rainfall of around 30 mm (1 inch) lasts for about 14 days.
The Best Places to Visit in Nepal in May
May is the pre-monsoon month in Nepal. The weather is generally hot during the daytime and remains cool at night. With the increasing and temperature, but not yet high rainfall in most places, May is a good time to explore Nepal's lush and green national parks, and numerous trekking routes. Here are some of the recommended places to visit if you are going to Nepal in May.
1. Bouddhanath Stupa, Kathmandu
As the capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu is known for being rich in old towns, medieval temples, and numerous UNESCO-listed attractions. One of the most famous Tibetan Buddhism sites in Kathmandu is the Bouddhanath Stupa, which is said to be one of the largest spherical stupas in the world. The massive white mandala and bright orange top dazzles at first sight. Lots of people visit to pray and seek blessings from the Buddha. A World Heritage site, Bouddhanath Stupa is one of the top-visited attractions in Kathmandu.
2. Narayanhiti Palace Museum, Kathmandu
Narayanhiti Palace Museum is a good place to learn about Nepal's royal family and its history. Once a royal palace, you can learn more about Nepali architecture, and the royal lifestyle, Nepali kings' personal affects, daily routine, and much more. You can learn about the mysterious royal family assassination in 2001, which was an important historical event in Nepal's history. There are many arts and cultural relics exhibited in the museum, including exemplary architecture, art pieces, ornaments, furniture, and more. A half day there can make you knowledgeable about Nepal's monarchy and history.
3. Begnas Lake, Pokhara
May is a good time to enjoy water fun at numerous rivers and lakes in Pokhara. Begnas Lake is one of the most popular one. The second-largest lake in Pokhara Valley, Begnas Lake offers interesting activities, including swimming, fishing, boating, and fish farming activities. The beautiful and pristine surroundings of the lake attract professional photographers, families with kids, retired couples, and young backpackers from all over the world. It is an unforgettable experience to walk along the lake and enjoy the picturesque views.
4. World Peace Pagoda, Pokhara
One of the must-visit places in Nepal, Pokhara is well-known for its numerous stupas and temples. If you want to visit a temple and enjoy natural beauty at the same time, then World Peace Pagoda (Pokhara Shanti Stupa) should be on your list. Located on the top of Ananda Hill, World Peace Pagoda offers a spectacular view of the Annapurna mountain range, Phewa Lake, and the Pokhara Valley on a clear day. Remember to wear good-quality walking shoes as the steps to the top are steep and slippery on rainy days.
5. The Langtang National Park, Kathmandu Valley
May is a good time to visit the freshly lush-green national parks of Nepal. If you don't want to go far for wildlife-watching, then Langtang National Park in Kathmandu Valley can be a good place. There you can watch jungle wildlife and try the beautiful trekking trails. Langtang's stunning landscapes and mountain views of the park will make you both relaxed and energized at the same time. There you would get the chance to watch musk deer, red pandas, Himalayan black bears, snow leopards, wild dogs, serow (goat-antelope), and more than 250 species of birds, amongst numerous plant species. There are several trekking routes in Langtang National Park, ranging from short and easy hikes to more challenging treks. You can choose the right route according to your interest.
Crowding and Costs in May
May is among the low travel months in Nepal. The hot weather prevents some travelers visiting Nepal in this month. You don't need to worry about the crowds in May. You can enjoy more space and freedom in the major attractions and transport routes.
Hotels, tours, and flight prices are given big discounts for some time in this month. It is a good time to spend less money or more days in Nepal. Contact us — we can do all the research and booking for your ideal trip to Nepal.
What to Bring/Wear in May
May is generally hot in Nepal in the day and mild at night. It is ok to pack summer clothes — shirts, light trousers, T-shirts, sandals, sunglasses... — with light trousers and light jumpers/jackets to put on in the evenings and early mornings.
The chance of rain increases in May, with rain on about 10 to 15 days in different parts of the country. Heavy rain can happen at the end of the month. You'd better bring umbrellas or raincoats.
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