Trekking in Nepal in August

Adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers await monsoon for a different reason. If you are willing to enjoy the crisp surrounding and the lush vegetations, then come trekking in Nepal in August. Only avid trekker would know the joy of the monsoon trekking.

Fortunately, August lies in the middle of monsoon season in Nepal. The monsoon rain brings some of the most beautiful trekking experience. This is the time when nature is colorful- flower bloom and the greenery takes on deeper hues.

After a couple of hot months, the monsoon months bring some cooling moments to the country.

The green hillocks that stretch into the horizon and the ultimate beauty of the Himalayas is a treat for nature lovers.

The trekking in Nepal in August provide a fantastic opportunity to admire the vivid vistas of the snow-covered Himalayas that are unique in monsoon.

Exploring the wilderness in the monsoon seasons is a bunch of quite unique experience. The green hills become more vibrant. The colorful flowers add a splash to the green lush canvas.

Everywhere you’ll find the freshness in the air. The rainfall drops the temperatures down by a couple of degrees and changes the atmosphere form dry arid to a fresh lush green.

In comparison to low altitude, there is less rain in high altitude. Sometimes, the cloud obstructs the best mountain views but still, you can enjoy the trip. Like a saying, “journey more counts than the destination”.

Undoubtedly, trekking in Nepal in August is not to be missed as it is filled with many adventures and challenges.

However, if you’re planning for trekking in Nepal in August then you can also do short treks like Ghorepani Poon Hill trek and Chisapani Nagarkot trek. With proper planning and preparation you can also signup for Everest Base Camp Trek in August.

Highlights of Trekking in Nepal in August

Season of Festivals

The highlight of trekking in Nepal in August is  Nepal’s many traditional festivals.

Gai Jatra

The Gai Jatra means the festival of cows. This festival resembles and marks the acceptance and celebration of death in a positive way. The cows are decorated and led through the streets. Families of deceased join the procession and distribute the food packets to others. Mask dance and traditional Ghinta Ghisi dance is also observed during this festival.

Janai Purnima

It is one of the popular thread festival in Nepal celebrated in the month of August. All the Hindu men change their old Janai (the sacred thread) and wear a new one. Also, every Hindus tie a sacred thread on their wrist.

It is also called Raksha Bandhan where the sister ties the holy thread to their brothers and pray for their good health and prosperity.

Shree Krishna Janmashtami

Shree Krishna Janmashtami festival is also known as Krishna Jayanti or Janmashtami. This festival marks the celebration of the birth of Lord Shree Krishna.

Krishna is believed as the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. During this festival, the Hindu devotees visit Krishna Mandir in Patan.

Other Highlights

• An absence of huge crowds
• The green and lush vegetation
•  Blooming colorful flowers
• Less chance of altitude sickness because of summer
• Clean and fresh atmosphere

Weather Conditions while Trekking in Nepal in August

August marks the end of the monsoon season in Nepal. Due to the altitude, weather can change suddenly. Thus, preparing for seasonal changes on the trail is a good place to start.

Pokhara and southern side of Nepal receive more rain during the monsoon. When it rains, it will rain for hours, it will be heavy then it can clear up for the rest of the time.

However, the countryside comes alive during these months. It is gorgeously green and rivers and lakes are teeming with water.

Temperature

The temperature cools down during the rain when it is cloudy and overcast and the countryside turns green.

During this month, the average daytime temperature is 28°C. The climate is hot and humid during the sunny days. Likewise, the average nighttime temperature is comfortable around 19°C.

Sunshine

In August, usually, there are 13 hours of daylight in which you’ll have 3 hours of bright sunshine each day.

Rainfall

During August, expect 474 mm (18.7 inches) of rainfall across the whole country. Maximum UV levels will be extreme at midday when the skies are clear.

The probability of the rainfall decrease as the month progresses. Likewise, the precipitation starts off at 60 % and drops down to 55 %.

Humidity

It can get pretty hot and humid during this month. The relative humidity during August around Kathmandu is 93 %.

The air tends to be driest when the relative humidity falls below 93 %. It is most humid around August 2 when it rises above 95 %.

Wind

Typical wind speed in Kathmandu in August ranges between 4.8 miles per hour to 4.3 miles per hour. Over the course of the month, the wind speed gradually decreases.

Best Trails for Trekking in Nepal in August

Here is a selection of the most beautiful hiking trail across the country that remains favorite with trekkers during August.

If you’re planning trekking in Nepal in August these three trekking options are best for you! You can choose any of the three options I assure you’ll not do any regrets.

Upper Mustang trek

Upper Mustang trek is the ultimate monsoon trekking destination for adventure lovers in Nepal. August can actually be a nice month to visit Upper Mustang.  As the Upper Mustang region lies in the rain shadow area the weather is clear with no rain during the August.

It also lies in the restricted trekking area of Nepal so only limited trekkers are allowed to trek per year.

During the entire trek, you can see the gradual contrast in the landscape along the trails. The green lush meadows surrounded by snow peaks transform into barren, rocky mountains and rugged terrain by the time you enter into the Upper Mustang.

Geographically, the Upper Mustang is a part of Tibetan plateau and popular as Mini Tibet of Nepal. Thus, visiting the Upper Mustang region is like visiting Tibet. Here you can witness highly influenced Tibetan culture and traditions.

This adventurous trek begins from Pokhara city to the Lo Manthang at an altitude of 3,950 m. The trail takes you through the deepest and most steep canyons in the world i.e. Kali Gandaki.

During the trek, you’ll get the magnificent views of mountains like Dhaulagiri massif, Annapurna, Nilgiri and other snowy peaks.

During this amazing trip, you get to do many things. You can visit ancient Buddhist monasteries, Stupas, Chortens, Mani walls, and prayer flags. You can also explore the unique lifestyle of the local Thakali people of Upper Mustang region.

Towering snow-capped mountains and gurgling waterfalls along the way keeps you immersed in the region’s natural beauty.

Though moderate in difficulty level, the trek is also doable for beginners who have prepared well.

This trek is best during the monsoon months of June to August. But, it is amazing still in October. Upper Mustang trek commences from Jomsom, where you can reach by a flight or a drive from Pokhara.

Trekking can be costumed with Ghorepani Poon Hill and Jomsom Muktinath.

Nar Phu Valley trek

Nar Phu Valley trekking trail is newly opened and one of the perfect monsoon trekking destinations in Nepal. It is also famous as the hidden valley trek as it offers you a chance to explore the two hidden remote valleys of Nepal: Nar and Phu of the upper of Manang districts.

Trekking through this region is often difficult but rewarding at the same time in terms of natural beauty that takes you through.

The best part of the trek is an untouched beauty of the region. On the other hand, the landscape just after monsoon is spectacular with lush meadows. The freshness of it can be overwhelming.

Trekking in Nar Phu Valley is a rare privilege. You’ll get a chance to explore lifestyle, culture, and tradition of true Himalayan people along with the breathtaking views of Himalayan landscapes.

Furthermore, the trek offers the awesome views of the Annapurna massif, Dhaulagiri range, Lamjung Himal, Machhapuchhre Himal, Manaslu Himal, and Tilicho peak.

This amazing trek begins from Kathmandu to Besisahar and trail ascends via the Marsyangdi river valley and follows the same trail of Annapurna Circuit till Koto.

Then, the trek continues by following the off-beaten trail to Nar and Phu Valley.

Passing through peaceful forests, narrow canyon, interesting rock formations, colorful caves, the remote village the trail leads you to the north of Manang district. The Phu valley is famous for the Tashi Gompa. Many Buddhist pilgrims visit the Gompa to receive the blessings from Lama Rinpoche.

Kang La Pass is the highest point of the trek. Though the trekking lies in the famous Annapurna region still this trail is less explored. You’ll find a few trekkers in the trail so you’ll experience a more peaceful trek and better chance to enjoy the natural beauty.

If you wish you may join the Annapurna Circuit trail through Pisang route and head towards Thorong La Pass. You can return back through lower Mustang where you can explore the Jomsom, Marpha village and finally back to Kathmandu from Pokhara.

Manaslu Circuit trek

Just like Nar Phu valley trek, Manaslu Circuit trek is another best option for trekking in Nepal in August. The landscape of the Manaslu region is every bit picturesque and magnificent. The charm of this trekking region will sweep you off the floor at the first encounter.

Monsoon trek in the Manaslu region is a treat to the eyes! The beauty of Manaslu region is legendary for adventure enthusiasts.

At the first half of the trek, you’ll get rains to follow you but as you progress the probability of the rainfall decreases significantly.

During the entire trek, you’ll get a chance to know the lifestyle of the Himalayan people who are not much in the touch with the rest of the world. The region is mostly inhabited by the traditional Sherpa and Tamang people.

The eye-catching astonishing mountain views are the special highlights of this trek.

You’ll be rewarded with the most beautiful views of Mt. Manaslu, Himchuli, Ganesh Himal and many other snow-capped mountains.

The Circuit trek starts from Arughat just from a mere 700 meters and the trail leads via up and down hills to a height above 5000 meters.

The challenging part of the trek is to cross the Larkya La Pass at an altitude 5135 meters above the sea level. After crossing one of the adventurous high alpine passes you’ll get magnificent views of Annapurna II, Kang Guru, Himlung, and Cheo Himal.

The trail passes through dense rhododendron forests, beautiful landscapes, and mind capturing valley like Samdo, Bimthang, Samagaun, and Namrung. Finally, the trek ends through the globally renowned Annapurna Circuit trail to Besisahar.

This trek offers you to visit several Buddhist monasteries that are highly influenced by the Tibetan culture. The dense forests, the freshwater stream, waterfalls, and some awe-inspiring views make this a memorable trek.

Trekking in Nepal in August

Pros

• There are fewer tourists around, you can enjoy the most place to yourself.
• You can get off-season bargains at hotels, even in the luxury section. Great time for backpackers!
• Excellent sunrise views.
• Lush green landscape and cool atmosphere.

Cons

• Encounter with lots of mosquitoes and leeches in the trail.
• The slippery and muddy trails.
• Things get wet.

Useful Tips for Trekking in Nepal in August

Trekking in Nepal in August is full of adventure as there will be greenery all around the mountains, mesmerizing waterfalls, and a pleasant atmosphere. Though the trekking in Nepal in August is delightful, it can be a bit risky if proper care is not taken.

Here are a few tips you should keep in mind to avoid the unpleasant situation and make your journey memorable and safe.

Pack waterproof equipment

August is one of the monsoon months so expect the rain to visit you anytime. But it doesn’t mean that the rain will deter your trip. The thing is you need to well-equip yourself with the right gear. Raincoat and umbrellas are helpful to keep yourself dry. Waterproof backpack and cases for your mobile, laptop, and tablets are essential.

Protect yourself from bugs and insects

Monsoon is the time of mosquitoes and leeches. So, be well-prepared to combat them by carrying insect repellents and salt. Insect repellent will help you against mosquitoes. If leech attaches to your body, then you can remove it by rubbing salt on it. Beside this, you’ll also need to avoid leaning on the trees or rocks that is away from the direct sunlight.

Be updated with weather conditions

While trekking during the monsoon month you might come across the bad weather conditions. You need to listen to local news and weather forecasts before deciding to go ahead or turn back. Because in the mountains, a bad weather situation may quickly go worse and there is a risk of getting stuck without help for hours.

Hire and listen to your professional guide

Hiring a professional trekking guide is safe during the monsoon trek. If you’re trekking in unknown terrain it’s compulsory to have a guide with you as they will know the ins and outs of the trek. Obviously, they guide you safely and take the charge of an emergency situation, that might arise. So, always follow the instruction of your guide as one wrong step can put you in a dangerous situation.

Research well about the trekking trails and keep a flexible schedule

Most of the Himalayan range might experience heavy downpour which makes the trail and scenery immensely captivating and beyond beautiful. And at the same time, it poses risks due to highly slippery landscapes. Also, some trails might remain closed due to the landslides and flood. Plus, it’s good to allow enough flexibility in your schedule.

Choose the rights clothes and footwear

While trekking in Nepal in August you need to pack light cotton clothes which can dry quickly. Invest in a good pair of trekking shoes, which provide you with a good grip on the muddy and slippery trails. Plus, the shoes must be comfortable to wear, light in weight, and waterproof.

Final Thoughts

Monsoon rains are no excuse for an enthusiastic trekker. It brings a peace and calm to the atmosphere.

The smell of something new and exciting is in the air and the days start getting longer.

Furthermore, there is no such thing as bad weather only there are wrong clothes and unsuitable attitude.

So, now it’s time to get disconnected from the virtual world and drift yourself into a land of tranquility.

Connect with yourself, connect with nature!

All in all, it is possible to trek in Nepal in August. If you enjoy backpacking with small spending and more solitude on the trail, then August is the time for your adventure!