Best Monsoon Treks in Nepal

Best Monsoon Treks in Nepal runs from mid-June to September, bringing about 80% of the country’s annual rainfall over almost 105 days. This period is called Wet Summer because of heavy rain and high humidity. The heavy rainfall helps agriculture but can also cause floods and landslides, damaging infrastructure and natural habitats. Trekking in Nepal during this season can be both challenging and rewarding. Monsoon treks offer less crowded trails and vibrant green villages.

If you plan a monsoon trek in Nepal, you should be prepared for heavy rain and storms and watch out for leeches. The monsoon trek offers lush greenery and blooming flowers that enhance the beautiful landscapes. The best months for trekking during this season are June to September. Ensure proper rain covers, windproof and waterproof jackets, trekking poles, sturdy boots, and raincoats. September gets less rain, making it the best time to trek as autumn begins. Although spring and autumn are usually the best trekking season for Nepal, the monsoon season offers empty and peaceful trails. 

10 Monsoon Trekking in Nepal

Annapurna Circuit Trek

Highlights

• The trails and teahouses will be less crowded.
• Clear, fresh, breezed pathways and incredibly bright vistas.
• Experience the fresh, free-flowing rivers and waterfalls that are exceptionally beautiful along the routes.
• Thorong La Pass offers stunning views of Manaslu, Annapurna I, and Dhaulagiri.
• Diverse landscapes from subtropical forests to high-altitude deserts.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek is one of Nepal’s most popular trekking destinations during the monsoon season due to its breathtaking vistas of the Annapurna Range, local settlements, and diversified scenery. Although the trek can be done anytime, the monsoon season can be demanding and rewarding for adventurers. As you hike through the lush green pathways, you can feel the fresh wind, and the mountain seems to come to life with the mists and clouds around it. Take extra precautions since the weather in the Annapurna region can be unpredictable. 

Langtang Valley Trek

Langtang Valley Trek Highlights

• You can enjoy the lush, green scenery of the Langtang Valley despite the rain.
• Visit Kyanjin Gompa, a significant highlight of the trek.
• See the panoramic landscapes of Ganesh Himal.
• Spot wildlife like Red Pandas, Himalayan Black Bears, and Snow Leopards.
• Trek to Tsergo Ri viewpoint for the best views of mountains, valleys, and glaciers.

Monsoon season can be an excellent time to trek the Langtang Region because the trails are less crowded, and you can see the beautiful, rainwashed green valleys. The Langtang Valley routes can get muddy and slippery, but the experience is worth it. Fog and clouds might block the views sometimes, but the rains help clear and refresh the valley. Since it’s also the farming season, you can explore the terraced farms in the Langtang region. 

Upper Mustang Trek

Upper Mustang Trek Highlights

• Lo Manthang, the former kingdom of Mustang, looks more vibrant and clean during the monsoon.
• Enjoy trekking through a less-explored, dust-free area of Nepal
• Visit several monasteries and gompas in the Mustang region.
• Hike on rainwashed, fresh, and dust-free trails throughout the trek.
• Experience less crowded and quiet trekking trails.

Upper Mustang, in northern-central Nepal, is a great place to trek during the monsoon season because of its unique weather. The monsoon rain washes away the dust, making the landscapes more transparent and vibrant. While other regions might be rugged to trek during monsoon season, Upper Mustang stays accessible and relatively safe. The Upper Mustang trek is moderate to highly challenging and requires reasonable fitness. Even though trekking during the monsoon can be difficult, it is worth it and lets you explore a hidden gem of Nepal. 

Manaslu Circuit Trek

Manaslu Circuit Trek Highlights

• Lush green landscapes during the monsoon season.
• You can see breathtaking views of Mt Manaslu, Lamjung Himal, Mt Annapurna II, and many more.
• You can cross the challenging Larkya La Pass at 5,160 meters.
• Experience the rich cultural diversity of the Giring and Tibetan communities. 
• You can explore monasteries and Mani walls.

The Manaslu Circuit Trek during the monsoon season is a unique and green experience. The rain makes the landscapes lush and beautiful. Fewer people are on the trails, and you will walk through lovely forests and terraced fields. The rain can make the paths muddy and slippery, so it’s a bit harder, but the beautiful scenery and quiet trails make it worth it. Even with the rain and fog, crossing the Larkya La Pass is still exciting. The views of the mountains and valleys are excellent when the sky clears.

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek Highlights

• Astonishing sunrise from the Ghorepani Poon Hill Viewpoint.
• Pristine views of Mt Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri.
• Lush and green Annapurna region during the monsoon.
• Experience the Gurung village and hospitality in Ghandruk.
• Vibrant waterfalls and fresh breezes in the monsoon season.

Ghorepani Poon Hill is an easy and beginner-friendly trek in the Annapurna region, offering clear views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri. Since monsoons are off-season, trails are less crowded, and accommodations are cheaper. This trek suits everyone and doesn’t require a high fitness level. Check the weather forecast before starting to avoid delays during the monsoon. The Ghrepani Poonhill Monsoon Trek can be rewarding but challenging due to slippery trails and possible landslides. Always carry rain covers and sturdy boots. This is one of the shortest treks you can plan during the monsoon in Nepal. 

Nar Phu Valley trek

Nar Phu Valley Trek Highlights

• Experience one of the most remote and less-traveled regions in Nepal.
• Cross the challenging Kang La Pass with panoramic mountain views.
• Trek through diverse landscapes, including forests, canyons, and alpine meadows.
• Breathtaking views of Annapurna, Himlung, Gangapurna, and other Himalayan peaks.
• Explore the ancient Tibetan-influenced villages of Nar and Phu.

The Nar Phu Valley trek is popular in Nepal during the monsoon season because the trails are less crowded. It’s perfect for those who want a quiet, off-the-beaten-path trek in the remote Annapurna Region. This trek is moderately challenging and suitable for anyone in good physical shape. However, be cautious of heavy rain and landslides. Though mudslides might block some roads to Besisahar, this trek is still an excellent monsoon adventure. 

Gokyo Ri

Gokyo Ri Highlights

• Stunning panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
• Spectacular views of the pristine turquoise Gokyo Lakes.
• It is an ideal spot for witnessing breathtaking sunrise and sunset over the Himalayas.
• Views of the longest glacier in the Himalayas, the Ngozumpa Glacier.
• Experience the rich Sherpa culture and hospitality in the villages along the trek.
• Opportunity to cross the challenging Renjo La Pass, connecting Gokyo with Thame.

Gokyo Ri is a fantastic destination to trek during the monsoon season if you enjoy fewer crowds and lush green scenery. The heavy rains make the surroundings vibrant and alive, and the lakes around Gokyo are complete and precise. The trek routes can be more peaceful as it offer a serene trekking experience. Although the weather can be wet and the trails slippery, the mornings often provide clear views of Mount Everest and other stunning peaks. You must be ready for some rain and take extra care while hiking, but the breathtaking landscapes and tranquility are worth it. 

Chisapani Nagarkot

Chisapani Nagarkot Highlights

• It is easily accessible from Kathmandu, making it ideal for a short trek.
• Breathtaking views of the Himalayan range, including Everest, Langtang, and Ganesh Himal.
• Stunning views of sunrise and sunset over the Himalayas.
• Walk through the serene and protected Shivapuri National Park.
• Pass through charming local villages and interact with the friendly inhabitants. 

Chisapani Nagarkot is a beautiful trekking destination that is perfect for a short trip. During the monsoon season, the trek is lush and green, with forests full of blooming flowers. Despite occasional clods, you can witness breathtaking views of distant mountains peeking through the mist when the weather clears. Nagarot is famous for its sunrise views, but in the monsoon, you might see more clouds than mountains. 

Mardi Himal

Mardi Himal Highlights

• Breathtaking views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Dhaulagiri, and the Annapurna Range.
• Passes through lush sub-tropical forests, rhododendron forests, and alpine landscapes.
• Chance to spot diverse flora and fauna, including various bird species and wildlife.
• Relatively quieter trails and teahouses, especially in the monsoon season. 
• Opportunity to interact with local Gurung communities and experience their culture. 

Mardi Himal is a moderately easy trek that doesn’t require a lot of physical fitness. It’s great to do in the autumn, but you can also do it in the monsoon because fewer people are on the trails and in the teahouses. You’ll see stunning Machhapuchhre and the Annapurna Range views during the trek. The hills are covered in greenery, and the mountains look fantastic, with clouds all around them. You’ll pass through lush sub-tropical forests and alpine areas. Since it’s a shorter trek, you can do it in any season and don’t need to be super fit. 

Shey Phoksundo Lake

Shey Phoksundo Lake Highlights

• Visit the breathtaking Shey Phoksundo Lake with its crystal-clear turquoise waters and rugged cliffs.
• Pass through traditional Dolpo-pa villages and experience ancient Bon and Buddhist practices. 
• Trek through Shey Phoksundo National Park, known for its diverse wildlife, including blue sheep and snow leopards. 
• Enjoy the tranquility of a less-traveled route in the Himalayas. 

The Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek deepens into Dolpo, famous for its untouched nature and rich culture. Starting from Juphal, the Shey Phoksundo Lake Trek leads you to the stunning Shey Phoksundo Lake, known for its clear blue waters and rocky cliffs. Along the way, you’ll pass through villages where people follow ancient traditions of the Bon and Buddhist religions. You’ll hike through Shey Phoksundo National Park.

Benefits of Monsoon Trekking in Nepal

• Lush Greenery: The landscapes become vibrant and luxuriant due to the heavy rainfall, offering breathtaking views of green valleys and forests. 
• Fewer Crowds: Compared to peak trekking seasons, fewer tourists are on the trails, providing a quieter and more serene experience. 
• Clear Skies in the Morning: Typically, mornings are clear, with the clouds and rain clearing up, allowing for stunning views of the mountains. 
• Cultural Experience: It’s a great time to experience local culture and festivals as communities celebrate harvest and other cultural events during monsoon. 
• Lower Prices: Accommodation and trekking permits may be cheaper due to lower demand during this season. 
• Waterfalls and Rivers: Waterfalls are at their fullest, and rivers are more dramatic, adding to the scenic beauty along the trekking routes. 

Monsoon Preparation and Packing

Clothing

• Waterproof jacket
• Waterproof pants
• Quick-dry shirts
• Fleece or insulated jacket
• Trekking pants
• Hiking socks
• Hat and gloves

Footwear

• Trekking boots
• Camp shoes

Gear and Accessories

• Backpack
• Trekking poles
• Sleeping bad
• Sleeping pad
• Headlamp or flashlight
• Water bottles
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• First Aid Kit
• Navigation Tools
• Dry bags

Miscellaneous

• Snacks
• Travel towels
• Trash bags
• Umbrella

Safety Tips for Monsoon Trek

• Stay updated on weather forecasts and be aware of local weather patterns.
• Follow guidance from experienced guides or locals regarding trail conditions and safety precautions.
• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, even in cooler temperatures.
• Wear sturdy boots with traction to navigate slippery trails.
• Carry a waterproof jacket, pants, and cover for your backpack to protect against rain. 
• Trek with a group or partner for safety and support.
• Be cautious around rivers and streams; avoid crossing during heavy rainfall or flash floods.
• Be aware of leeches, and take precautions. 

Accommodation and Food

During the monsoon season, the trails are quieter, with few trekkers, and several teahouses are located along them. Teahouses are small lodges run by local families. They offer simple rooms with shared bathrooms. They serve mainly Nepali dishes like dal bhat (rice and lentils), noodles, and soups. You can also find Western food in some places. However, you can choose any food on the menu according to your preference and convenience.

In more remote areas, accommodation might be more basic, like simple guesthouses or camping grounds. It’s a good idea to bring some snacks and essentials just in case. Even though the facilities can be essential, the hospitality is warm, and the foot is comforting after hiking in the rain. 

Conclusion

Monsoon trekking in Nepal is a unique adventure. The trails are lush and green, there are fewer crowds, and the landscapes are breathtaking. You can also enjoy spectacular views of the mountains. While the weather can be challenging, with rain and muddy paths, by being well-prepared with the right gear and clothing, the experience is enjoyable. You’ll experience the warm hospitality of local tea houses and taste delicious Nepali food.

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