Blessed with a gentle climate, Pokhara enjoys warmer average temperatures than almost anywhere else in the Himalayan region of Nepal. Protected from cold winds by the towering Annapurna Massif to the north, and benefitting from the moderating influence of subtropical India to the south, Pokhara sees mild variations across seasons.
Typically arid in the pre-monsoon period from March to May, Pokhara then experiences significant rainfall, averaging almost 500cm annually, primarily during the summer monsoon from June to September.
While many Nepalese regions suffer harsh freezing winters, Pokhara's winter temperatures generally fluctuate between 10°C to 20°C thanks to steady sunshine throughout December-February. Below one can discover what to expect from Pokhara's friendly weather patterns month-by-month over a year.
January (Poush-Magh)
The first month of the Gregorian calendar brings chilly highs around 18°C (mid 60s°F) and overnight lows of 5°C (40°F). But during Poush and early Magh, sunny skies prevail for 6 hours midday. Frosty fog often shrouds the mornings. So take cold-weather gear: down or wool coats, glove liners, plus synthetic thermal base layers and heavier insulating mid-layers to stay warm as temperatures fluctuate.
Water-resistant winter trekking boots with thick insulating socks are a must to keep your feet toasty while exploring sites like the World Peace Pagoda or boating on Phewa Lake.
Headwear like fleece-lined hats paired with silk glove liners allow you to regulate body warmth in the crisp high-altitude air. And don’t forget the sunglasses - the winter sun atop Sarangkot Ridge shines brightly!
February (Magh-Falgun)
Transitioning from Magh to Falgun, thick blankets of fog frequently descend overnight and take until mid-morning to dissipate. So waterproof footwear and rain jackets may be needed if visiting views like Sarangkot before noon. Pack base layers and mid-weight insulation like fleece tops and nylon pants.
As Phewa Tal lake waters cool, the valley remains protected from harsh winds, allowing afternoons to reach pleasant highs near 20°C (around 70°F). Retreats like the Shangri La Resort become ideal for warm afternoons poolside.
Restaurants with heat lamps open their sunny terraces around this time. So bring a hat, swimwear, sunglasses, and lighter insulation clothing you can shed midday.
March (Falgun-Chaitra)
As spring takes hold between Falgun to Chaitra, brilliant rhododendron forests flourish while afternoon highs surpass 20°C (70°F) for the first time. Humidity remains low as rainfall begins to pick up into April. So plan for bluebird skies perfect for mountain views from Sarangkot. Yet the crisp evenings still warrant packing warmer layers like fleece jackets.
Once afternoon temperatures near 25°C, lightweight hiking pants, and short-sleeved trekking shirts become ideal for staying cool on long day hikes to charming villages like Majgaun.
As the Falgun full moon approaches, festivals light up across Pokhara Valley, so be ready to experience rich local music and dance into the warm evenings. Don’t forget those sunglasses and sunscreen as rays intensify midday even if the breeze has a nip.
April (Chaitra-Baisakh)
April welcomes ever-warmer weather as Pokhara heads toward summer. Humidity remains mild while rainfall totals stay low heading into mid-May. Pleasant high temperatures ranging from 25-30°C mean shorts and short sleeves are perfect midday attire for boating on the lake or strolling lakeside.
Yet early mornings and evenings can still necessitate windbreakers and light pullovers. Late Chaitra to early Baisakh is prime time for clear mountain vistas across the Annapurna range, so take ultralight daypacks on hikes to Australian Base Camp and beyond in the Himalayas.
As wetter weather approaches, waterproof trekking sandals now work well when lighter rain showers do occasionally occur, especially when exploring sites like Devi Falls and Gupteshwor Cave in the hillsides north of the lakeside.
May (Baisakh-Jestha)
As humidity rises from Baisakh to Jestha, May still offers reliably sunny days with temps ranging from 25°C to well over 30°C (80°F+). Rhododendrons and mountain wildflowers enliven the valleys as settlements around lakes like Begnas and Rupa Tal increase into June. So take breathable summer-weight trekking apparel - moisture-wicking base layers with sun-protecting linen shirts and shorts.
Boating, paragliding, or sipping sundowners from Sarangkot are all alluring as summer nears. Best enjoy lakeside terraces on warm evenings while still mild enough for open-air concerts; monsoon downpours soon close in. Be prepared for afternoon showers with travel umbrellas and rain jackets as moisture-laden clouds pile up along the Annapurnas.
Overall May offers ideal weather for adventure seekers: Pokhara pre-monsoon at its finest!
June (Jestha-Asadh)
Early summer swelter during Jestha gives way to torrents of rain as the monsoon lands mid-Asadh. While hot sunshine persists in brief spurts into July, expect high humidity and almost daily downpours. So pack full rain gear: umbrellas, hooded waterproof jackets, rubber trekking boots, quick dry clothing, and water-resistant daypacks.
Flash flooding around overflowing waterfalls like Patale Chhango makes hiking precarious. Yet in between refreshing rains, temps remain warm enough to boat Phewa Lake’s glassy waters.
Vistas vanish in the clouds but jungle areas thrive in emerald green. Hit up café patios during occasional breaks from precipitation. Stay dry indoors with cooking classes, yoga retreats, or cultural shows that enliven Pokhara’s soaked yet eventful long summer.
July (Asadh-Shrawan)
The monsoon swings into full gear during Asadh and Shrawan, dumping up to 1500mm of rainfall across Pokhara Valley. Temperatures remain moderately warm, averaging 20s°C (around 75°F), but humidity skyrockets above 90% on downpour days. Any sunshine rapidly gives way to thunderstorms and weekly low-pressure systems that stall over the Himalayas. So have full wet weather provisions on standby.
Review flood safety protocol when camping near swollen rivers. And expect vista views to be rare between the overcast skies and perpetual mist. Hardy green vegetation embraces the moisture though - it’s a botanist's dream, despite mosquitos also thriving this time of year.
Some may find it the most magical glimpse into rural Nepali agriculture. But with precipitation levels this heavy, it’s also the low season for tourism. Instead, focus on cultural attractions like the Gurkha Memorial Museum or watch traditional Dhime dance shows on breaks from the rainfall.
August (Shrawan-Bhadra)
The rainfall continues intense through late summer, with up to 500mm of rain still coming down monthly. Any adventurers visiting Pokhara during Shrawan or Bhadra should expect soggy conditions with average high temperatures around 26°C (nearly 80°F). Humidity remains sky-high, though winds pick up ahead of September’s changing weather patterns.
Stunning waterfalls like Tal Barahi roar at full force. And the flooded Seti River rages south slicing through the city center. But once precipitation lets up, refreshingly cool air allows for momentary mountain views - some of the year’s clearest despite the otherwise wet weather.
Carry compact waterproof cameras on hikes along the flooded Midim Khola’s raging rapids and swollen falls. Just take care with each adventure activity during the intense monsoon!
September (Bhadra-Ashoj)
Finally, relief comes as the monsoon rains taper off in Bhadra, giving way to sunnier skies by Ashoj. September daytime temperatures average a pleasant 25°C (around 75°F) as humidity levels drop off drastically. Misty fog lingers some mornings but this signifies drier weather is arriving! With improved visibility, snow-capped Himalayan peaks materialize capping the northern horizon on crisp high-pressure days.
Take advantage of sunrise treks up Sarangkot for majestic Annapurna views that will continue unspoiled for months ahead. Pack jeans, fleece pullovers, and windbreaking jackets for the occasional brisk mountain breeze amidst otherwise sunny mild days.
With rain showers diminishing, Pokhara hotels and restaurants overflow with tourists relishing the clearing autumn skies at last!
October (Ashoj-Kartik)
Crisp high-altitude air accompanies the sunny days of October as cold winds sweep down the Annapurnas. So Kartik temperatures range from about 12°C overnight to 25°C most afternoons, similar to September. Humidity stays pleasantly low while chances of rain are very rare this time of year.
With chillier pre-dawn mountain air, sunrise views from atop Sarangkot remain crystal clear for capturing brilliant photos illuminated by the rising sun. Pack jackets and gloves for brisk mornings. But shorts and T-shirts should suffice by midday with ample sunshine.
October makes an ideal time for paragliding above Phewa Tal or multi-day trekking towards Poon Hill and the Annapurna Base Camp region.
November (Kartik-Mangsir)
As winter sets in, cold fronts drop overnight lows below 10°C (into the 40s°F) by Mangsir. But most days still average a mild 20°C (around 65°F) allowing for comfortable hiking. Just have windproof jackets and gloves for vigilant sunrise viewpoints like the World Peace Pagoda.
With no rain and incredible mountain visibility, November skies bring some of the best panoramas of Machhapuchhre, Dhaulagiri, and the entire Annapurna Massif.
Road trips out along the ridge towards Majgaun or Sarangkot offer picnic perfection with the snow-capped Himalayan vistas towering close across the valley. Just don’t forget the thermos of hot tea!
December (Mangsir-Poush)
As calendar years wrap up with Mangsir fading into Poush, decidedly wintry weather accompanies December in Pokhara. Overnight lows dip down closer to 5°C (40°F) while midday highs average around 17°C (mid 60s°F). Occasional arctic fronts blast the valley with cold winds and overnight ice possible on still mornings. So down jackets, wool caps, silk glove liners, and heavyweight trekking socks are essential now.
Locals swap cotton clothing for woolens that better insulate against the cold and persistent chill. Yet with the driest air of the year, visibility remains pristine providing nonstop Himalayan panoramas capped in fresh snowfall.
Winter adventurers will marvel at frosty trails towards viewpoints like Sarangkot and helicopter tours towards Annapurna get fully booked. Just schedule an evening around one of Pokhara's many wood-fired pizza ovens!