Looking to visit Nepal in December? It’s the perfect time to go exploring! You’ll find clear blue skies, fresh air, and beautiful views of snowy mountains if you go to Nepal in December. It’s a cool and pleasant environment outside, so now is the best time to explore.
Trekking trails, colorful festivals, and fewer crowds are all part of this month’s experience. If you’re into hiking, safaris or spending peaceful days in quiet mountains, you’re sure to find it in December. There are also local festivals such as Tamu Lhosar and Christmas.
In this blog, we’ll guide all you need to know from weather to things to do, festivals, packing tips, and traveling advice.
Weather in December in Nepal
During December, Nepal's Weather becomes Cold and Dry, so November is perfect for outdoor trips and enjoying the mountain ranges. Most days are sunny. During the morning and in evening time the atmosphere becomes cold.
- Temperature & Humidity: In Nepal's Capital, Kathmandu, and other lowland areas, daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C. At night, temperatures in the mountains may fall well below freezing. With low humidity, you can deal with the cold and still enjoy fresh air.
- Rainfall: December is part of the dry season in Nepal. As rain is not very common, you can enjoy most days free of rain, which makes traveling and sightseeing easy.
- Visibility: The clear skies offer some of the best visibility of the year. You can see the amazing, breathtaking views of the Himalayas and the sunrise from popular tourist spots Nagarkot and Sarangkot.
- Rain-Shadow Regions: Popular Places like Manang and Mustang, which lie behind the mountains, remain dry even during the monsoon season. In December, everything calms down in these regions, making it an ideal time to travel and walk on more secluded routes.
Why Visit Nepal in December?
December in Nepal is a peaceful and refreshing experience for traveling. December has good weather with clear skies, helping us see the Himalayas all covered in snow. It is a great time for things like trekking, hiking, and sightseeing.
December is also full of cultural experiences. Tamu Lhosar festivals are available to experience and you can enjoy Christmas in Kathmandu and Pokhara. If you want to explore and enjoy both culture and nature, December is a great month to visit Nepal.
- Stunning Mountain Views : December is a great month to appreciate the panoramic views of the Himalayas. Since the weather is usually cloud-free, the snowy mountains appear even more stunning. Famous mountain peaks, including Everest, Annapurna, and Machapuchare, look golden during morning sunshine.
- Trekking and Hiking: December is an excellent month to go trekking at low to middle altitudes in Ghorepani-Poon Hill, Langtang Valley and Helambu. Because it’s not hot and humid, walking on the trails is more comfortable. Since fewer people are around, you can enjoy walks through nature and clicking the pictures.
- Cost Savings: As December isn’t the peak time for travel, you can often find deals and discounts from various accommodation providers and travel agencies. Traveling, eating, and doing activities are affordable on the budget during these busy months. So, your trip will be fun without thinking about costing too much money.
- Cultural Festivities: Many cultural traditions are celebrated in December, like Tamu Lhosar. The Gurung community marks Tamu Lhosar by having fun and dancing, as well as various types of food. Thamel and Pokhara are popular places for Christmas and New Year celebrations, featuring both local and foreign holiday traditions.
- Wildlife and Flora: Chitwan and Bardia National Parks are best explored by jungle safari during the winter season. Rhinos, elephants and tigers are easier for people to spot when they go out to enjoy the sun. Along with birds, you can admire winter flowers and well-maintained forest trails during your tours.
What to Do During December Month in Nepal?
December is one of the best months to visit Nepal for peace and tranquility. Because of the cool and dry air, along with clear blue skies, it is ideal for both exploring outdoors and enjoying cultural happenings. No matter if you wish to be thrilled, relaxed or learn about the culture, Nepal in December has something for everyone.
1. Spiritual & Wellness Retreats
If you want to relax and find inner peace, Nepal provides plenty of yoga and meditation retreats and some of the best are found in Pokhara, Lumbini, and the area surrounding Kathmandu. Reflecting, healing and bonding with your inner self is easier during December’s peaceful weather. Yoga, healthy meals, meditation sessions and peaceful walks through nature are common parts of a retreat.
2. Wildlife Safaris
In December, jungle safaris are enjoyable since the dry weather helps you see things more clearly in the parks. Both Chitwan and Bardia National Parks are home to rare animals like the one-horned rhino, Bengal tigers, elephants, and lots of birds. You can try jeep safaris, enjoy canoe rides, discover bird,s and even interact with elephants, all from the safety of the forest.
3. High-Altitude Treks
December is a popular month for trekkers because of its amazing, clear mountain views. It can be quite cold higher up, yet treks such as the Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit and Langtang Valley give trekkers impressive views of snowy surroundings and peaceful journeys. Because there are fewer visitors, the trails become more peaceful and the teahouses are open for you.
4. Motorcycle Tours
For adventure lovers, motorcycle tours across Nepal’s rugged roads offer a thrilling way to explore the country. Riding the roads between Kathmandu and Pokhara or heading toward Mustang, allows you to observe the stunning snow-covered mountains above the quaint ancient villages. Although the air is chilly, the humidity is low which suits motorcycle riding.
5. Adventure Sports
Nepal is known for its exciting adventure sports. This month, you’re able to fly with paragliders over Pokhara’s lakes, try bungee jumping from high bridges, and raft on the clear and chilly rivers in the area. They are safe, supervised by expert,s and offer an experience that stays with you.
6. Cultural Sightseeing
Nepal has a great culture and you can enjoy it more in December. Explore the old temples, stupas and palaces found in Kathmandu, Bhaktapur and Patan. You’ll find history, art and architecture around every corner in these cities. Without so much tourism, you can fully enjoy your time at these sacred places, share moments with people from the area and explore the beauty of Nepal.
Major Festivals Celebrated in Nepal in December
Besides clear weather and wonderful mountain views, December is when Nepal celebrates interesting festivals that unite the community. They allow tourists to discover the deep traditions, tasty dishes and friendly atmosphere in Nepal.
1. Tamu Lhosar
Tamu Lhosar is the New Year celebration of the Gurung community. Traditional dancing, colorful costumes and planned meetings mark the event which happens in early December. In Pokhara and Kathmandu, the events include both large demonstrations and cultural programs.
Gurung people get together for meals and salute the past generations. For tourists, it’s a wonderful way to see the varying Nepali cultures and take part in a peaceful festival.
2. Christmas and New Year
While Nepal is mainly a Hindu and Buddhist country, Christmas and New Year are celebrated, especially in cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara. It’s common to find hotels, restaurants and shops decorating their area with lights and trees.
People visiting for New Year’s can take part in live music, dine on special meals and participate in countdown festivities. Both those who live there and tourists come together for an enjoyable, peaceful event.
3. Yomari Punhi
Yomari Punhi is a traditional Newari festival celebrated during the full moon in December. For this holiday, people make a sweet dumpling called Yomari which contains rice flour and a mixture of molasses and sesame seeds.
The rice harvest is complete when the festival comes and it is also tied to expressions of thanks and wishes for good luck. Visiting a Newar community during Yomari Punhi lets you taste unique local food and witness authentic traditions.
Packing Tips for December Visits in Nepal
If you go on a trip in Nepal during December month, be sure to pack carefully so you don’t get cold, wet or hurt. Make sure to have these things for a pleasant trip:
- Warm thermal base layers: They stop your body heat from being released which keeps you warm in the cold. Useful for trips to cities as well as hiking.
- Windproof and waterproof outerwear: Protects your head and body from sudden changes in weather. Helps keep the inner parts of your body dry and warm.
- Woolen hats and gloves: Keep your head and hands covered to keep your body temperature up. Essential for keeping you cozy in the morning and evening.
- Thick socks and scarf: Helps keep your feet comfortable and stops any cold air from getting inside your jacket. Gives extra comfort when you are outdoors.
- Waterproof trekking boots: Keeps your feet safe and dry on lengthy walks. Perfect for walking on rough and sloped trails.
- Sleeping bag (for high-altitude treks): Warming and necessary for camping in colder climates or at high altitudes. Pick a tent that is able to withstand cold weather outside.
- Backpack rain cover: Protects your backpack and everything you carry from getting wet. Easy to pick up and bring with you wherever you go.
- Moisturizer and lip balm: Helps keep the skin and lips from becoming dry in cold and dry situations. Keeps skin free from cracks and irritations.
- Sunglasses and sunscreen: Prevents harmful rays from the sun when you’re at a high altitude. Protects against being burnt by the sun and keeps your eyes comfortable.
- Power bank and headlamp: Helps your devices continue to operate and allows you to see clearly. Good to use wherever electricity is not available or during mountain trips.
- Basic first-aid kit: Is useful for treating little cuts, blisters or mild altitude sickness. It is wise to carry cash whenever you travel.
Travel Tips for December in Nepal
Traveling in Nepal during December can be a wonderful experience with proper preparation. Getting the most out of your trip requires you to have a plan but also to remain flexible.
If you want good weather for outdoor activities, try to get outside early each day. It is strongly advised to use local guides, as they provide precious information, assist with directions, and make your trip in remote areas safer. Having a flexible plan in mind allows you to stay calm if something unexpected happens and keeps your trip enjoyable.
Carry some cash for remote areas, use sun protection during the day, and consider lower-altitude treks for easier travel. Living in teahouses and joining local festivals can make your trip more enjoyable and culturally rich.
If you are staying in Kathmandu or Pokhara, enjoy visiting cultural sites, local cuisine, and evening walks, but dress warmly as temperatures drop quickly after sunset.
Conclusion
December is a wonderful time to visit Nepal because the weather is great, hiking is quiet, festivals are colorful and the culture shines. If you prepare well ahead and are adaptable, you can discover the best of Nepal in December.
Get ready to explore Nepal this December and make memories that will last a lifetime!
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