Climate in Nepal

Nepal has a highly diverse climate, with major differences between regions. Annual temperatures range from lows of -18°C in the coldest regions to highs of 34°C in the warmest areas. Annual precipitation ranges from 82mm in drier regions to 374mm in wetter parts of the country. Some regions receive significant snowfall, with up to 374cm annually, while other areas see little to none. The warmest areas are hot year-round while the coldest regions remain very cold, making Nepal a country of sharp climate contrasts.

Temperature patterns across Nepal vary by region, with distinct differences between areas. The Southeast is the warmest part of the country, with peak temperatures reaching 34°C and an annual average of 26°C. Cooler conditions are found in the Southeast, where winter lows drop to -18°C and an annual average of -8°C. This 34°C difference in annual averages between regions means travellers can experience vastly different conditions depending on which part of Nepal they visit. Regional temperature differences remain relatively consistent across seasons, with around 35°C of variation in both summer and winter. For example, Biratnagar in the Koshi averages 26°C annually, while Lahān in the Madhesh averages -8°C.

Nepal sees notable variation in rainfall across its regions, ranging from 82mm to 374mm per year. The Southeast receives the most rainfall, at approximately 374mm annually. The West is the driest, with around 82mm per year. Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly across the seasons, with no strong wet or dry period in most regions. The Southwest sees the most snowfall, with up to 374cm annually, while other parts of the country receive little to none. Visitors heading to wetter areas can expect more frequent rain than those staying in drier parts of the country.