To those who have traversed Nepal multiple times, the spontaneous diversity of the seasons in Nepal might not be a surprise. But to those, who haven’t had the opportunity it might be quite difficult to decode.
Basanta Ritu ( Mid- March to Mid-May)
Grishma Ritu (Mid-May to Mid- July)
Barsha Ritu (Mid- July to Mid-September)
Sharad Ritu (Mid- September to Mid- November)
Hemanta Ritu (Mid-November to Mid-January)
Shishir Ritu (Mid- January to Mid-March)
Generally, seasons around the world are divided into four; Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter. But to the surprise of many travellers, Nepal boasts six seasons; Basanta (Spring), Grishma (Early Summer), Barkha (Summer Monsoon), Sharad (Early Autumn), Hemanta (Late Autumn) and Shishir(Winter). These six seasons are results of the geography of this ever so beautiful mountainous region. Many might think that this is just a local exaggeration but if you desire to truly travel the serene scapes of Nepal, having an understanding of the local definition of the seasons can be quite helpful.
To begin with, one must keep to mind the five climatic zones of Nepal which broadly correspond to the altitudes. The tropical and subtropical zones lie below 1,200 metres (3,900 ft), the temperate zone 1,200 to 2,400 metres (3,900 to 7,900 ft), the cold zone 2,400 to 3,600 metres (7,900 to 11,800 ft), the subarctic zone 3,600 to 4,400 metres (11,800 to 14,400 ft), and the Arctic zone above 4,400 metres (14,400 ft).
This leads to a variation in climate patterns throughout Nepal, even during the same season. The Northern region of Nepal due to their proximity to the Himalayan range experience harsh winters whereas the southern plains of Nepal the temperatures are not so extreme. Whereas during the summer, the Terai ( Southern Nepal) experiences temperatures between 40 - 45 C, while the hills and mountainous regions experience temperate temperatures.
In the local dialect, seasons are called Ritu’s which have been brought into the tradition following the weather patterns the nation experiences as a whole.
1. Basanta Ritu ( Mid- March to Mid-May)
What the west calls Spring is called Basanta in traditional Nepali. The season spans for a period between Mid-March to Mid-May. This period is one of the most favourable travellings throughout Nepal, trekking is especially recommended during this season as the weather is generally stable, but features high winds and light rainfall in some regions. Trails are especially beautiful this time around the year, due to the blossom.
2. Grishma Ritu (Mid-May to Mid- July)
Grishma entails the honest season in Nepal, this season sees harsh temperature gains in all parts of Nepal. The Northern destinations are spared from the high heat; treks such as Upper Mustang, Lower Mustang, Upper and Lower Dolpa are quite popular.
3. Barsha Ritu (Mid- July to Mid-September)
Barsha translates to rain in English. Lasting from mid of July to September, this season sees most of the regions of Nepal experience light to heavy rainfall daily. A region which is not affected much by this season is the Trans Himalayan Region, thus trekking routes in this region is quite popular such as of Upper Mustang, Nar Phu Valley Trek, Limi Himal Trek and others.
4. Sharad Ritu (Mid- September to Mid- November)
Autumn in the local culture of Nepal is referred to as Sharad. This season sees rapid changes in the landscape of Nepal and even in the urban centres as it is also the festival season. Major festivals such as Teej, Kartik Naach, Dashain and Tihar fall in during this season. For travellers who wish to experience the entirety of Nepal, this season is regarded as the perfect season to travel and experience Nepal.
Mid-September to Mid November is regarded as the perfect time for adventure activities throughout Nepal. The skies are mostly clear, moderate temperatures, and the cool breeze helps create a relaxed environment.
5. Hemanta Ritu (Mid-November to Mid-January)
In Nepal, winter is divided into two parts, with Hemanta being the pre-winter season in Nepal. This period sees a gradual decrease in the average temperature around Nepal and is also considered a fair season for trekking activities. Popular trekking routes during this season are Ghorepani Poonhill Trek, Manang Gosaikunda Trek, Manjushree Trail and others. For the native farmers of the region, pre-winter is also the harvesting season, farmers make sure to collect their crops and store them for the upcoming winter.
6. Shishir Ritu (Mid- January to Mid-March)
The winters in Nepal have quite a variation according to its various geographical regions. The Southern plains of Nepal experience an average temperature of 20-24ºC whereas the mountainous regions experience heavy snowfall. Mostly known as the dry season of tourism, it is fair to say that travelling to Nepal requires no season as one can experience and encounter the magic, mystery and beauty of Nepal all year round.
Average temperature and rainfall char during peak summer and winter in the three most popular tourist areas of Nepal.
To know more about Nepal’s climatic conditions, please visit the official website of the Department of Hydrology & Meteorology, Ministry of Environment.
