Best Monsoon Trek in Nepal

If you’re confused about the Best Monsoon Trek in Nepal, this blog will provide all the essential information about the best trekking destinations during monsoon months. The summer months in Nepal receive heavy rainfall, causing floods, landslides, etc., making it challenging to trek. However, many trekking trails in the Himalayas lie in the rain shadow area, allowing trekkers to hike in the monsoon season. The monsoon in Nepal starts in early June and lasts till early September. Except for unpredictable rainfall, the temperature is ideal for trekking in the Himalayas.

Are you planning a trek in Nepal this Monsoon?

Autumn and Spring are the peak seasons for trekking in Nepal. There will be thousands of trekkers in the Himalayan region of Nepal. The clear skies, moderate temperature, festive seasons, stable weather conditions, colorful forests, etc., attract visitors during peak seasons. However, there are too certain demerits of trekking in the peak season. You won’t be able to trek in a peaceful environment. The trails will be crowded. Moreover, you need to prebook for your food and accommodation as you won’t have multiple options in the remote part of Nepal.

Alternatively, trekking during the monsoon season has several benefits despite drawbacks. The trails are less crowded as it is an off-season in Nepal. You can enjoy a free, peaceful walk in nature. It would be best not to worry about the food and accommodation. The temperature is ideal for hiking in the Himalayas. Yes, the rainfall can be unpredictable. However, you can keep updated about the weather forecast to ensure a safe and sound trip. 

Many trekking trials in Nepal lie in the rain shadow area. These regions receive very little rainfall during the monsoon. You can trek to those trails in Nepal during monsoon season. 

Most Popular Monsoon Treks

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek (5 Days)

Ghorepani Poon Hill trek is a short five-day trek that allows you to witness the breathtaking views of the Annapurna region. It is one of the shortest treks from Pokhara. During this trek, you can witness the panoramic views of the Annapurna mountain ranges. You will also visit the beautiful villages of Ghandruk and Ghorepani. You can experience the local Gurung culture while you go on this trek. The highest elevation point on this trek is around 3200 meters at Poon Hill. 

Nyingba Heritage Homestay Trek (5 Days)

Nyingba Heritage Homestay Trek is one of the least trekked places in Nepal. It takes you to the remote part of Western Nepal. The maximum elevation point on this trek is around 3900 meters at Tokra. This trek is not just a journey but an experience where you will learn about Buddhist norms and culture. You will pass through different Gumbas, Monasteries, Stupas, Prayers flags, etc. while you trek in this region. These off-the-beaten trials will allow you to witness the breathtaking views of mountains like Mt. Ribuche, Mt. Pungrikar, etc. You can also visit the Bardia National Park, which is famous for the endangered Bengal tiger.  

Lower Mustang Trek (5-7 Days)

Lower Mustang Trek is the best option for quickly trekking to Mustang. It is a moderate trek through the region bordering Annapurna and Mustang. You can witness the panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. The highest elevation on this trek is around 3800 meters at Muktinath. Muktinath Temple is a sacred place for Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims. Since it lies in the rain shadow area, Lower Mustang can trekked during monsoon season. 

You can also check about: Dhaulagiri Base Camp Trek

Phoksundo Lake Trek, Dolpo (7 Days)

Shey Phoksundo Lake trek is another popular trek in Nepal during the monsoon season. This trek allows you to trek in the off-the-beaten paths. You can witness the beauty of western Nepal. You will pass through different picturesque villages and dense forests while you trek toward the Phoksundo Lake. Your final destination will be the Shey Phoksundo Lake, Nepal’s deepest lake. The highest elevation on this trek is around 3700 meters at Phoksundo Lake. You can witness the breathtaking views of the mountains of Western Nepal. 

Annapurna Circuit Trek (6-8 Days)

Annapurna Circuit Trek is the most preferred trekking destination in Nepal. If you plan to visit Nepal for a trekking adventure, this trek should be your option. This trek encircles the Annapurna Massif, allowing you to witness the panoramic views of the Annapurna mountain ranges.

The highest elevation on this trek is around 5400 meters at Thorong La Pass. You can easily trek the Annapurna Circuit in the rainy season. July and August during monsoon season are the best times for trekking in this region. This is the best trek in the Annapurna region. You can experience unique Hindu and Tibetan Buddhist culture while you trek in this region.

You can also check Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Nar Phu Valley Trek (9-12 Days)

This Nar Phu Valley Trek will let you explore the remote valleys in the Himalayas of the Annapurna region. This trek will take you to two charming Nar and Phu villages. You can experience the influence of Tibetan culture while you visit this region. It would help if you crossed high-altitude passes like Kang La Pass and Thorong La Pass while trekking in this region. This trek will allow you to witness the breathtaking views of mountains like Annapurna II, Himlung Himal, Gangapurna, and Tilicho Peak.

Upper Mustang Trek (12-14 Days)

Upper Mustang Trek is one of the most popular off-season treks. Since it lies in the rain shadow area, the upper Mustang trek in monsoon gives the best trekking experience. This trek will allow you to witness the majestic views of the Annapurna mountain range. Lo Manthang, the capital of Upper Mustang, is another major attraction of this trek. This region is also known as the Himalayan desert of Nepal. You will walk through the naked hills, soaking yourself in the beauty of the Himalayas. The highest elevation in this trek is around 5400 meters at Thorong La Pass. 

Everest Base Camp Trek (12-14 Days)

The Everest Base Camp trek is one of the most popular treks in the world. Despite Autumn and Spring being the trekking season in Nepal, you can trek to EBC during the monsoon season. The monsoon EBC trek offers stunning views of Everest mountain ranges. The weather might be unpredictable during monsoon, but you can trek early in the morning to avoid unprecedented circumstances. This trek will take you to the base of the world’s highest peak. This trek offers breathtaking views of the gigantic Everest. This trek also passes through Namche Bazaar, a famous Himalayan town that is famous for resting and acclimatizing. 

Trekking Preparations for Monsoon Season in Nepal?

Physical fitness requirements

Trekking always comes up with several challenges. It would help if you were physically and mentally fit to trek in the Himalayas. Since you will be hiking for several days, you must have enough stamina to cover the hiking distance easily. Your cardiovascular endurance plays a crucial role in walking in the Himalayas. You should perform exercises like swimming, running, etc., to improve cardiovascular health.

It would be best to go on prior hikes, which will help you learn about the varied terrains. Altitude sickness is a common concern in the Himalayas, so you should consult the doctor if you have any issues related to your physical health. Incorporating these suggestions will improve your physical health and ensure a safe and sound trip. 

Permits and fees

You cannot trek anywhere without any permits in Nepal. Most trekking trails will ask you for a permit at the entry checkpoint. Except for the Everest region, Trekker’s Information Management System (TIMS) card is mandatory for trekking in Nepal. This card holds the trekker’s data, trekking route, and itinerary. It is used for emergencies where the nation can track you with this data. TIMS card is available at the Nepal Tourism Board office in Kathmandu or Pokhara. You can also get the TIMS card from any registered trekking agency in Nepal. It cost you NPR 2000.

Besides the TIMS card, you will need the special area permit, the restricted area permit, or the National park permit. It depends on where you’re trekking in. You will need a Sagarmatha National Park permit and a Pasang Lhamu Rural Area permit for the Everest region. Similarly, you will need an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit for trekking in the Annapurna Region, which offers numerous trekking trials. Likewise, you will need a Shey Phoksundo National Park Permit for Treks like the Dolpo trek. 

The cost for these permits ranges from NPR 1000 to NPR 3000. However, if you’re a visitor from SAARC nation, you will have discounts of up to 50%  or even more on these permit prices.  

Be prepared for leeches. 

Trekking in Nepal during the Monsoon season presents you with a few demerits. You will catch Leeches in the trials. It would help if you were all prepared for the encounter with leeches, especially in the wet and Humid areas. Wear long sleeves, pants, and leech socks to protect yourself from leeches. You should apply insect repellent on your exposed skin and around your clothing opening. It would help if you proactively checked for leeches at regular intervals. Carry a small first-aid kit to treat bites and prevent infections.   

Gear and Equipment

You must have the proper gear and equipment for a safe and successful trek. Some of the essential trekking gear and equipment that you will need while trekking in Nepal are listed below:

Clothing

• 3 layers of clothes( Thermal, Middle and Outer )
• Trekking trousers or pants
• Half pants and vests
• socks
• shoes
• Hat and Gloves
• Mufflers

Equipment

• Trekking poles
• headlight
• Camera and phones
• First aid kit
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Toiletries

Document

• Passport with visa
• Trekking permits
• Travel Insurance documents
• Passport-size photos
• Photocopy of every document

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Monsoon Trek in Nepal is one of Nepal’s most challenging trekking periods. However, the Himalayan nation offers different rain shadow places and Valleys that can be traveled during the monsoon season. If you plan to trek in Nepal during Monsoon, you will have multiple options to trek. The treks like Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, Annapurna Circuit Trek, Upper Mustang Trek, Nar Phu Valley Trek, Upper Dolpo Trek, etc., lie in the rain shadow area. 

Please ensure the weather conditions are suitable for the place you’re trekking. Get the proper gear and equipment to provide a safe and sound trip. Moreover, Hire an experienced guide who can handle all the challenges and ensure a memorable journey.