Are you thinking about trekking in Nepal in February?
It’s almost impossible to say what is the best time to explore Nepal. Our little country is simply an amazing year around.
In Nepal, winter runs from December to February. December and January are the coldest months of the year. February can still be cold but the weather gradually gets warmer.
I won’t deny it, many people don’t think it’s really good idea to trek in winter. As there might be a perception that the weather is really not suitable.
However, trekking in Nepal in February is absolutely possible. It is really doable. It isn’t too harsh. Also, the winter scenery is even more spectacular, with clear skies and excellent mountain views.
There’s something special about trekking in Nepal in February. When you see the world covered in a blanket of snow, it just adds a beauty.
February is a good time to trek. It is not high season as spring (March-May) and autumn (October-December).
In Nepal, winter months can mean lots of different things, depending on your interest and the part of the country where you choose to visit.
Trekking in Nepal in February can be a beautiful experience. Walking on the top of the snow, viewing frozen rivers and waterfalls all present memorable experiences.
But, a little different approach is needed for trekking in Nepal in February.
Don’t worry we’re here to serve you!
There are almost endless options for trekking in Nepal in February.
You can choose short trekking packages such as Chepang Hill Trekking, Royal Trekking, Panchase Trekking, and Chisapani Nagarkot Trekking. All these trekking are suitable during February in Nepal.
Do keep in mind that, Everest region gets very cold so Everest Base Camp trek in February would not be quite good options for most trekkers. But the accessibility of the area makes it a good option for trekking in February.
You can just take a short flight from Kathmandu to reach Lukla. While flights are often canceled due to bad weather conditions in wetter months. But this should be less concern during this month of the year.
Then after Lukla, you can go short trek to Namche Bazaar, a famous Sherpa Capital. You can also continue hike to Tengboche, where you can visit famous monastery.
Also, the low altitude of Nepal never get too cold, the higher you go, the temperatures get colder. This means some of the higher elevation trekking such as high Cho La pass of Everest region or Thorong La Pass of Annapurna Circuit are not doable during the cold month.
In contrast, if you like to add a little adventure on your trip then you can opt Everest Panorama Trekking and Annapurna Panorama Trekking.
Here’s everything you need to know about the upcoming trekking in Nepal in February and this is a right time to plan it all.
Weather Conditions of Nepal in February
Trekking in Nepal in February becomes quite challenging when you consider the weather. Despite this trekking is always fun, no matter which weather you go in.
Although, it’ll be good to know the local weather conditions before getting to that particular trekking area.
You’ve to be absolutely prepared when you go in adventure trekking trip, especially if you’re traveling during the frosting winter.
Nepal experience four distinct seasons; spring, summer, autumn, and winter.
Nepal usually experiences a short winter. So, if you visit Nepal in late February, you’ll likely experience mild to warm temperatures.
February is one of the dry months in Nepal, so there are little rain and snow. During February, the temperatures of Kathmandu valley might range from 4°C-19°C which is tolerable.
Likewise, the temperatures of Pokhara valley might range from 9°C-12°C. Also, the temperatures of Jomsom valley might range from 1°C-13°C.
The temperatures above 4000 m go below -5°C. Most people from the higher elevation migrate to the warmer lower elevations.
Despite this, you’ll witness the best skies making a very good trekking time for the Nepalese Himalayas.
Recommended Trekking Destinations in February
In fact, you might be surprised that Everest Base Camp trek and Annapurna Base Camp treks are still accessible in February. Though it would be better if you check the local weather conditions and prepare yourself with special equipment (crampons and axes).
Beside this, there are many lower-altitude treks that are still accessible during February.
Here I’ve compiled a list of best treks that can be enjoyed during February. You can choose any of these treks and give an adventurous touch to your February.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
The list of the best winter trek is incomplete without mention of Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. It is a perfect trek where you’ll get a best scenic view of Annapurna massif.
During the peak seasons, this trek is very popular and is overcrowded with trekkers. But not in February.
The trail passes through a beautiful landscape of rhododendron forests. At the end of the trek, you’ll enjoy the spectacular sunrise views at Poon Hill (3210m).
Throughout the journey, the trails offer the close-up views of Mt. Annapurna and Mt. Dhaulagiri. Thus, you don’t need to ascend too high to get the best mountain views. Yes, of course, if you don’t need to travel too high altitude then it means it doesn’t get too cold in February.
Besides getting the best mountain views, this low-altitude trek offers to get into the lives of the Gurung people and know about their culture too.
Along with this, Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trek is also doable during this month.
Langtang Valley Trekking
Langtang Valley Trekking is one of the most beautiful short treks of Langtang region in Nepal.
The culture in this area is much influenced by Tamang people who are descended from Tibetans. So in this short winter trek, you’ll get a chance to observe the distinct form of culture and traditions.
Along the trail, you’ll walk through the Langtang National Park. This park is home to some rare wildlife, you’ll get a chance to see some interesting animals and birds. Among them, some are musk deer, monkeys, red panda, deer, pike and the national bird of Nepal, the colorful Danphe.
The trekking journey is best started either from Dhunche or from Syabru Besi. Temperatures usually don’t go below 1°C making it a moderate trek.
During this time of the year, there is more than 80% chance of clear mountain view. Generally, it snow falls above 3000 m in this season so you don’t have to face too cold.
Beside this, you can also do the Tamang Heritage Trekking. This trek also starts from Syabrubesi and you don’t have to climb much more than 3500 m, making the temperatures tolerable during this time.
Jomsom Muktinath Trekking
Although Jomsom valley gets a bit chilly in February, it never gets very cold. So, the short treks Jomsom Muktinath Trekking is ideal in February.
During this time of the year, you don’t have to go for high altitude trekking to get the best mountain views. The major highlight of this trek is Muktinath Temple.
It is one of a famous pilgrimage and spiritual sites attracting thousands of Hindus and Buddhist pilgrims every year.
Jomsom Muktinath Trekking in Nepal in February is very quiet with clear weather. February is also regarded as a cold month. But, it’s usually snowfalls in the higher elevations with high wind and colder temperature.
You’ll get a chance to visit a remote village, ancient monasteries, and other sacred monuments along the trekking route.
This short trek offers to experience a plenty of Gurung and Thakali culture. Also, the Himalayan views from Jomsom valley are spectacular in February.
Benefits of Trekking in Nepal in February
Crisp clear and sunny days
Yes, temperatures may be colder, but the views are often at their best. Don’t be fooled by the words Nepal winter. In Nepal, it’s only at high altitude where you’ll experience snow. On a beautiful winter day in Nepal, you’ll be able to experience some sunshine during the day and have a crisp, cool evening and night.
Not too much crowd
Everybody is flocking to the Himalayas in peak season. Popular trekking destinations such as Everest region, Annapurna region, and Langtang region become unbearable due to the overcrowding of trekkers. Trekking in Nepal in February are so much better. Places like Annapurna region which are overflows with trekkers in peak season becomes calm and amazing in February.
It’s much cheaper
If you want to spend the least amount of money on traveling through Nepal, then you’ll love February. You have to pay little for accommodation and internet facilities. Domestic flights such as Kathmandu to Lukla are also cheaper. You’ve to just spend few dollars on food. You can save a lot of money by travelling in this season.
Tips of Trekking in Nepal in February
Trekking in Nepal in February also presents its own set of challenges. So, before heading out on the trail, be sure to think ahead and prepare for unexpected conditions.
Here are some tips that can be helpful to stay safe on the trail.
Check Weather Reports
The mountain weather is always unpredictable. Especially in winter time, it doesn’t take time for the weather to change. Before you leave for trekking, make sure that you learn about the weather. So in case of the bad weather, you can postpone the hike, especially if you’ve little or no experience with winter hiking.
Stay Hydrated
During the cold weather, the last thing anyone wants to do is drink water. But when you go for trekking, make sure to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated. You can use insulated water bottles or thermos to keep your water out from freezing.
Dress in layers
Dress in layers is really important while you’re trekking in the cold weather. It may be freezing, but after some time on the trial, you may get hot. So, make sure you stay comfortable and dry by dressing in easily removable layers. Start with a base layer of moisture-wicking fabric. The next layer should be warm and insulating like fleece or goose down. Your outer layer should help repel water and cut the wind. To get more idea you can refer What to Wear Trekking in Nepal.
Limited Daylights
At this point of the article, you know well about the climate of the February month. So as I’ve already mentioned that during the winter there are limited daylight hours. You need to start early and pack a headlamp in case you get caught out in darkness.
Take an Experienced Guide
Going on an adventure with a guide is always the fun way to go about, especially in the cold weather. Not only it is fun to share the adventure but it’s also safer to be with a guide.
Sometimes, the biggest problem in Himalayan trails would be that they’ve not been mapped properly. So, if you’re traveling alone you might get lost in the trail.
Moreover, in winter, the trail might get obstructed due to snow, a fallen tree or any other similar obstacle you would not know how to reroute.
Also, there is no rescue team in the Himalayan region who would rescue you in case you get lost. So, in this type of situation, an experienced guide will take care of everything.
Final Thought
In winters, our normal routine is lying in bed, curled up in the blanket in front of a television. I don’t think after knowing about trekking in Nepal in February you’ll do so.
Trekking in Nepal in February is really a great way to get out of your comfort zone and do something different. It’ll offer you a great chance to do something that you haven’t done and you’re scared to do.
If something is easy, anyone can do it. If something is tough then only determined people like you will be able to do it. At the end of the day, you’ll definitely come out as a tougher person.
So, don’t let this February be like your old regular one. Make this February adventurous.
Lastly, never let the cold weather to put you off your hiking habit !!!!
FAQs
Q1. What sort of weather can be expected during February?
Nepal experience the dry winters. During February, the weather is usually stable and warmer at lower altitudes up to 3,000 m. However, the weather in the mountains is always predictable. That’s why you need to be alert during the trekking period. At night it is generally cold, temperatures get below freezing points. So, you need to prepare yourself with the correct gear.
Q2. Is trekking in Nepal in February safe?
Great question! As some people might think that trekking in Nepal in February is difficult because of the weather condition. But, don’t thinks so!!!
During this time of the year, it is considered safe to trek in the lower altitude. There is an only high risk of cold winds and heavy snowfalls at higher altitudes. Due to the stable weather it is quite easy and better to go for trekking in Nepal in February.
But, for your safety concern, make sure that you need to take an experienced guide.
Q3. What sort of a sleeping bag do I need for trekking in Nepal in February?
I recommend a good four season down sleeping bag rated to -15°C for your winter trips. Also, you can rent/buy a sleeping bag in Kathmandu trekking store.
