Everyone seems to be afraid of rain havoc in the Summer season while traveling to Nepal. But, the country has so much to offer all round the year. Although it is a monsoon month, there is a list of beautiful things to do in Nepal in August. You can explore, observe, and indulge in the adventurous yet beautiful ride across this magnificent country.
It’s not necessary to worry about the monsoon rains. With proper knowledge of the places you visit and adequate preparation, you can enjoy a lot in Nepal throughout the year. The natural beauty and distinct cultural practices of the country make it enjoyable to visit.
You can, pretty enough, explore the cultural heritage of the beautiful Kathmandu Valley. Wandering through the gullies and footpaths takes you through the alleys of the hustle and bustle of the cities with temples and arts. Or, you can spend some quality time in Pokhara. From adventure sports like paragliding to dreamy night-life, Pokhara has it all.
Also, you can indulge in a refreshing hike or trek around the adventurous trails of the country. The choices are endless!
So, if you plan to visit Nepal this month, you will never regret selecting the right place. We have just compiled a list of things to do in Nepal in August.
Wander around in Kathmandu
The beginning of almost all adventures in Nepal is from the capital city of Kathmandu. Exploring this city is a complete tour in itself. You taste a bit of everything here; a part of the rich culture and a part of nature.
Never forget to bring a camera with you, as you’re sure to come across some things that you’ve hardly seen before.
Kathmandu in August
Exploring Kathmandu is quite doable in the Summer rains of August. All the popular tourist destinations in the Valley are easily reachable. Likewise, rainfalls occur mostly during the night or early morning. The moisture wipes the sky offering pleasant views for the day.
Visit Pashupatinath Temple
Pashupatinath Temple is one of the famous religious shrines in the world for Hindus. While exploring this historical place, you come across Hindu culture at its finest. Sages and Sadhus covered in ash, people worshipping cows, pesky monkeys are just a few instances of the holy place.
Abode of Lord Shiva and carved images surround the Temple areas. You can observe the authentic Nepali architecture at its most elegant forms. As you walk through the busy streets inside this area, you pass by many souvenir shops, street food stalls, artifact shops and much more.
Walking around the Pashupatinath area is not difficult in the rainy season. But waterproof footwear and an umbrella is a must. The earthen or unpaved paths turn muddy, and clothes can get dirty quickly. So it’s best to dress appropriately at par weather conditions.
Three Durbars Squares of the Valley
Durbar’ means palace. There are three cities in the valley- Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Lalitpur. These three places were once under three different kings. You don’t wanna miss exploring Kathmandu Durbar, Bhaktapur Durbar, and Patan Durbar Squares. They are enlisted in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The palaces depict the decades-old architectures. The wood-carved windows and doors, stone images are highlights of the whole area. Also, you see the stunning monuments that still preserve higher historical values. There are several souvenir and gift stalls on the premises of these ancient palaces. You can take home a memento of your visit to Kathmandu.
Kathmandu from Swayambhunath Stupa
Swayambhunath Stupa is among the most important places for Buddhist communities all around the world. The stupa sits on top of a hill in Kathmandu, and you can watch panoramic views of the whole valley from this place.
The place is full of monkeys, so the stupa is also called ‘monkey temple’. There are many ancient tales and legends about this place. It stands as a divine shrine for the Buddhists. You can feel the touch of peace and ease while observing this place.
Ride to Bouddhanath Stupa
For a whole day of fun and entertainment, take a ride to Bouddhanath Stupa. The place is a famous Buddhist shrine. You will get a chance to observe harmonious morning-time prayers performed by hundreds of devotees. The whole place feels magical.
After some quality time around the place, you can take a break and enjoy it. There are many cafes and restaurants, perfect for hanging out. All in all, your experience of Kathmandu in August won’t compromise on anything. You’ll spend the memorable times here.
Besides these places, there are many other things to experience in Kathmandu. A few honorable mentions are exploring Thamel and trying the authentic Nepali cuisine.
Trekking in Nepal in August
One question that everybody has on their mind is, “Is it possible to trek in Nepal in August?”
The answer is Yes! There are many trekking destinations in Nepal that are doable even in monsoon season.
A thing to keep in mind is that you need proper preparation before taking on any trek in August. You’ll undoubtedly face rainfall during your trek. So, waterproof clothing is the way to go. The rain makes the paths muddy and slippery. A pair of worn-in and sturdy trekking boots are necessary.
Also, the season bears mosquitoes and leeches. So, don’t forget to use insect repellent. Carry enough trekking gears like trekking poles, sleeping bags, camping tents, etc.
After preparing all the necessary stuff, you can choose any from different short trekking destinations across the country. Short treks are more relaxed and doable in monsoon. Likewise, trekking to places that fall within the rain-shadow area of Nepal is also an excellent option for the monsoon rains.
The best short treks that you can try during August are:
Trekking in the Rain-Shadow Area
Short Treks
These treks offer some of the best Himalayan views and experience and are the right choice for August.
With proper preparation and undaunting determination, other classic treks are also achievable.
Enjoy the National Festivals
Nepal is a country of festivals. The locals celebrate all festivals with grand manners, keeping the traditions and cultures alive. And, if you happen to arrive in Nepal in August, then you’re in for a treat.
Janai Purnima
Janai Purnima is a festival celebrated in mid-August. It is mainly celebrated by the Brahmin and Chettri communities of Nepal. Traditionally, every male in these communities wears a sacred thread called ‘Janai’ after their ‘Bratabandha.’ Bratabandha is a ritual in which boys between 8-12 years of age go through various cultural practices to enter manhood.
Every year, on the day of Janai Purnima, the males who wear Janai replace it with a new one. Also, women and children wear a sacred thread on their wrists to mark this Hindu festival.
Gai Jatra
Gai Jatra is also a famous festival celebrated during early August. People from the Newar community recall or commemorate the death of a family member that occurred within a year. A small parade goes through the small gullies of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan. The family members include a cow in the show; thus, the festival is known as Gai Jatra.
Krishna Janmashtami
According to the Hindu belief, Lord Vishnu came to earth as Krishna, one of his ten avatars. Krishna Janmashtami celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna. Devotees from all around the country throng different Krishna temples and shrines to worship him on this day.
Stunning City- Pokhara
Pokhara, the city of lakes, is one of the best places that you can visit in August. The city spells the magic of entertainment and adventure. Although Pokhara receives massive rainfall, the things that you can do here during August are endless.
Visit the famous lakes
There are about a dozen amazing lakes in Pokhara that you can’t visit all of them in one trip. A few lakes that you should not miss can glorify your travel. For example, the famous Fewa Lake and Begnas Lake are significant highlights here.
The August rainfall can cause difficulties while boating in these lakes. So, it’s better to check the weather forecast for the day before going into the water.
Davis Fall
The popular Davis fall is one of the most visited places in Pokhara. The waterfall that comes from the dam of Fewa Lake gives a mysterious yet calming vibe. The August rainfalls increase the water, making it look bigger, stunning, and cascading.
Other Things to Do in Pokhara
- Take a trip to Old Pokhara. You get a chance to experience the bygone days of the valley.
- Wake up early and visit Taal Barahi Temple in Fewa Lake
- Get into to bewildering Mahendra Cave.
- Give hiking to Sarangkot a try.
Conclusion
The rainy season affects challenging treks and adventurous sports. Yet, there are a lot more things to do in Nepal in August by giving less priority to trekking and sports.
Nepal is all about the beauty of nature and vibrant cultures. August is the best time to observe ethnic and native traditions and become a part of it. Also, the hills become greener and lush. The sky dust and pollution are washed away after rainfall, offering some of the best Himalayan views.
