Weather in Nepal in February

 The weather in Nepal in February is cold at high elevations, especially on trekking routes, but conditions stay mostly dry and clear. Shorter hikes in the lower Annapurna region are still doable, and the Kathmandu Valley stays cool with sunny days. It’s quieter than peak trekking season, and some snow-covered trails may still be closed, so check ahead.

Nepal in February at a glance

The weather in Nepal in February is all about the transition from winter to spring. As a result, the weather is milder but still relatively dry and clear, making it an excellent month for outdoor adventures. February in Nepal is also a good time for cultural sightseeing, and enjoying Nepal’s iconic trekking routes before the crowds arrive.

• Average temperatures in Kathmandu range from 39°F to 71°F (4°C to 22°C), with the mercury rising slightly higher in the Terai. Snow lingers at higher altitudes, but this means trails in the mountains remain tranquil.
• A good time to visit, February combines the charm of winter with early signs of spring. Cool mornings lead to sunny afternoons, ideal for trekking and wildlife exploration.
• Travel costs remain moderate, and crowds are manageable compared to the peak traveler times.
• Accommodation remains in plentiful supply, and tours are readily available without the need for advance reservations.
• Jungle safaris in Chitwan and Bardia are particularly enjoyable. Dry weather creates favorable conditions for spotting tigers, rhinos, and migratory birds.
• Mid-altitude trekking routes are enhanced by blooming wildflowers, adding vivid colors to scenic trails like Annapurna and Langtang.

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What is the weather like in Nepal in February?

February in Nepal is cold and dry, with some of the clearest skies of the year. It’s a good time to be in the mountains if you’re prepared for the temperatures. In Kathmandu, the weather usually ranges from 39 to 64°F (4 to 18°C). Higher up, like at Everest Base Camp, it can drop as low as 5°F (-15°C) at night and barely reach 41°F (5°C) during the day.

The dry air and bright skies mean excellent views of the Himalayas, especially in the mornings. There’s very little rain, about 0.6 to 0.8 inches (15 to 20 mm) across most regions, and snowfall is usually limited to higher elevations.

This is considered shoulder season, just before the spring trekking crowds arrive. Flights to mountain airstrips like Lukla are more reliable thanks to the stable weather. You’ll need warm gear for anything above 10,000 feet (3,000 meters), and some teahouses in remote areas may be closed or have fewer services. But if you’re ready for the cold, it’s a great time to enjoy quiet trails and clear mountain views. For more advice, see our guide to how to plan a trip to Nepal.

Average daily temperatures in February

February brings cool, dry weather across the country, with big shifts depending on elevation. In the Kathmandu Valley, which sits around 4,600 feet, daytime temperatures usually reach about 66°F (19°C), with nights dropping to 39°F (4°C). Pokhara is slightly warmer, with highs around 68°F (20°C) and lows closer to 46°F (8°C).

If you're heading into the mountains, expect a serious drop in temperature. Places like Everest Base Camp can be around 23°F (-5°C) during the day and fall to -8°F (-22°C) at night. It’s still winter, just a bit warmer than January but colder than the spring months coming up.

Skies are typically clear, which makes for great views of the Himalayas. The mornings can be pretty cold, but things warm up by midday in lower areas. Down in the Terai region, it gets much warmer, with highs around 77°F (25°C). 

You’ll get about 11 hours of daylight in February. Sunrise is usually around 6:45 AM, and sunset happens by 6:00 PM. The combination of long views, dry trails, and manageable daytime temperatures in the valleys makes February a good month to explore Nepal’s mountains and towns.
 

Is February a good time to visit Nepal?

February is a great time to visit Nepal if you’re looking for clear skies and comfortable daytime weather, especially in the cities and lower trekking areas. Winter is starting to ease up, but the air stays crisp and clean, which means mountain views are usually at their best.

This is a solid month for trekking. Higher elevations are still very cold, but lower routes like Ghorepani Poon Hill are much more manageable and still give you wide views of the Himalayas. The dry air helps with visibility too. Peaks like Mount Everest are often clearly visible without the haze you might get in other seasons.

February is also when Maha Shivaratri is celebrated, with large gatherings of pilgrims and sadhus around Pashupatinath Temple. It’s one of the more interesting cultural experiences you can catch in the city.

In Chitwan National Park, this is one of the better months for wildlife viewing since the grass is shorter and animals like rhinos and deer are easier to see. For more advice, see our Nepal travel tips.

• Clear skies make for great mountain views
• Lower-altitude treks are comfortable during the day
• Maha Shivaratri is a major religious festival worth seeing
• Wildlife is easier to spot in Chitwan and Bardia
• Nights in the mountains are still cold, so bring warm layers

What about the crowds and cost?

There is a small increase in tourists visiting Nepal in February as the weather begins to warm up and the first shoots of spring appear. However, the country is still blissfully uncluttered in contrast to the busy high seasons. The national parks provide a tranquil experience because trekking trails are generally calm. Because of the low demand, travel and lodging costs are still reasonable and offer great value. Unless you're looking for upscale accommodations in well-known locations, it's usually not necessary to make reservations in advance.

With fewer tourists, visitors can freely explore hiking routes and cultural places at their own speed without being constrained by time constraints or the crush of other tourists. February is an excellent month for travelers who want to explore Nepal since it provides the perfect balance of reasonable prices and good weather. It's not the best time to go to Nepal, but it's still a great time for a trip.

Where to go in Nepal in February?

February is one of the clearest months of the year in Nepal, with crisp air and wide-open views of the Himalayas from just about anywhere. Here are some of the best places to visit in Nepal.

Kathmandu Valley

February is a nice time to explore the Kathmandu Valley. The skies are clear, so you get great light on the temples, and it’s not too hot for wandering around on foot. You can easily spend a few days checking out the Durbar Squares, Swayambhunath, and Boudhanath. The morning light hits the gold details beautifully, and by afternoon, locals and sadhus are sitting on the temple steps in the sun.

Tucked between the alleys, you’ll come across courtyards where craftspeople are still carving wood or working metal by hand. There are traditional Newari restaurants serving dal bhat and momos in restored old buildings that make for a nice lunch break. Around the valley rim, you’ll find easy hikes to viewpoints and monasteries, with views stretching toward Everest. See more in our guide to the  best things to do in Kathmandu.

Pokhara

Pokhara is sunny and calm in February. The views across Phewa Lake to the Annapurna range are some of the clearest you’ll get all year. You can take it easy by the lakeside or head out for something more active. Paragliding conditions are usually great this time of year, and you can go tandem with a guide, catching thermals and gliding above the lake and surrounding hills. Sunrise trips to Sarangkot are also popular. It’s one of the best places nearby to watch the peaks turn pink and gold in the early morning.

Chitwan National Park

February is one of the better months for wildlife viewing in Chitwan. With dry weather and lower grass, it’s easier to see rhinos, deer, and sometimes even tigers. You can take jeep safaris, canoe rides on the Rapti River, or guided jungle walks. Canoeing is especially good for seeing crocodiles like marsh muggers and gharials sunbathing on the banks. Mornings can be misty, which adds a nice atmosphere for birdwatching. There are over 500 bird species in the park.

If you're heading out with the whole family, be sure to see our guide to traveling in Nepal with kids.

Things to do in Nepal in February

February transitions Nepal from winter to spring, offering blooming landscapes and moderate weather. It’s an excellent month for outdoor activities and peaceful cultural exploration. Here are some of the best things to do in Nepal in February to get the most out of your trip.

Trekking the Langtang Valley

February is a fantastic time to trek through the Langtang Valley. The trails, while still somewhat challenging due to the ice and snow, are less crowded than during peak season. As you gain altitude, you'll come across spring flowers that are coming to life as the weather warms up. There’s also the opportunity to explore charming villages inhabited by friendly locals, offering glimpses into their unique culture and way of life.

Visit Bandipur

Bandipur, a hilltop village, is a great place to head to experience Nepal’s traditional charm. Thanks to clear skies that predominate in Nepal in February, the panoramic mountain views are simply breathtaking. Plus, with the primary tourist season still to kick off, quiet streets provide a relaxing retreat away from the hustle of larger cities.

Losar Festival

Losar, the Tibetan New Year, usually takes place in February and brings lively celebrations to Buddhist communities across Nepal. Monasteries mark the occasion with masked cham dances, prayer rituals, and gatherings that draw locals and visitors alike. In places like Boudhanath, you’ll see butter lamps glowing on altars, incense swirling in the air, and arguments of fluttering prayer flags. 
 

Plan your trip to Nepal in February

February is a good month for traveling in Nepal if you want clear skies and quieter conditions. The weather is generally dry, which makes sightseeing and short hikes more reliable, especially in the Kathmandu Valley and around Pokhara. In the mountains, higher-altitude trekking routes may still have snow, so plans often stay flexible depending on conditions. For a look into what our favorite trips look like, see our favorite Nepal itinerary.