Top 7 Best Monsoon Treks in Nepal: Where to Hike During the Rainy Season

Is Trekking in Nepal During Monsoon Possible?

Absolutely! Although Nepal’s monsoon season (mid-June to late August) brings heavy rains to most regions, the rain-shadow areas of the Himalayas receive significantly less rainfall, making them excellent options for trekking in summer. Choosing the right trek means you can enjoy lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and unique cultural experiences without the usual monsoon hassles.

Pros of Monsoon Trekking

• Fewer tourists equal to more peaceful trails: Most popular trekking routes empty during monsoon, giving you a tranquil experience on the trail.
• Lush landscapes and vibrant greenery: The rains transform forests and meadows into vivid shades of green, making the scenery incredibly fresh and photogenic.
• Unique trekking routes open only in summer (like Upper Mustang): Many restricted areas in rain-shadow zones are accessible only during monsoon, offering exclusive trekking adventures.
• Rare chance to see dramatic clouds around mountain ranges: The combination of clearing rains and mountain peaks creates spectacular cloud formations and rainbows—perfect for photography.

Challenges during the Monsoon Hike

• Muddy or slippery trails in non-rain-shadow zones: Outside rain-shadow areas, heavy rains can make paths slippery and increase risk of landslides.
• Occasional delays in flights and transport: Domestic flights to mountain airports sometimes face delays or cancellations due to weather.
• Leeches in lower altitude forests: Humid forests below 2,500m often have leeches during monsoon, so precautions are necessary.
• Limited options on some traditional trekking routes: Certain trails may close or be unsafe during monsoon, requiring alternative plans.

Bottom line: With careful planning and the right destination, trekking during the monsoon can be an unforgettable experience and a great time to explore Nepal’s less-traveled corners.

Understanding Nepal’s Monsoon Weather

• Two climate zones in one trek: South-facing foothills usually experience daily heavy showers, while towering ranges like Annapurna and Dhaulagiri block much of the rain, creating dry “rain-shadow” zones such as Mustang, Dolpo, and parts of Manang.
• Cloud drama, not whiteouts: Mornings in rain-shadow areas are often clear, offering stunning mountain views. Afternoon clouds build gradually, rarely causing all-day rain.
• Temperature sweet-spot: Daytime temperatures in rain-shadow valleys range from 15 to 25 °C, with cooler nights (5–10 °C) above 3,500 meters, ideal for comfortable trekking.
• Travel logistics: While domestic flights sometimes face mid-day delays due to weather, overland jeep routes to Mustang or Dolpo generally remain operational, even in light rain.

Why Choose a Rain-Shadow Trek?

• Minimal rainfall – less mud, fewer leeches, more sunshine: Rain-shadow treks offer drier trails, reducing common monsoon discomforts.
• Low crowd volume – high-season teahouse bottlenecks disappear: Enjoy peaceful trails and more personal space in lodges and villages.
• Cultural immersion – monsoon coincides with key Tibetan Buddhist festivals (e.g., Tiji in Lo Manthang, Yartung in Muktinath): Experience unique local festivals that enrich your trek with vibrant traditions.
• Photographer’s heaven – storm-cleared air + pastel badlands + moody skies: Capture dramatic and colorful Himalayan landscapes rarely seen during other seasons.

Best Monsoon Treks in Nepal – 5 You Shouldn’t Miss in the 2025 Monsoon

Below are five standout routes that stay comparatively dry thanks to their rain‑shadow geography and are therefore widely regarded as the best monsoon treks in Nepal for 2025.

Upper Mustang Trek

• Duration: 10-20 days
• Max Altitude: About 3,932 m (Nyi La Pass)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Permits: Restricted Area Permit ($500 approx).
• Lodging: Tea houses and guesthouses along the route

Sheltered behind the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Mountain range, Upper Mustang Trek is a true rain-shadow destination and arguably the best option for trekking in Nepal during monsoon. This remote region was once a separate kingdom, and the trail to Lo Manthang passes through striking desert canyons, red cliffs, and barren ridgelines that remain dry even in peak rainy season.

You’ll experience vibrant Tibetan Buddhist culture, centuries-old monasteries, and dramatic high-altitude views of Nilgiri and Dhaulagiri—often under clear post-rain skies. After moving through lush lowlands, trekkers gradually ascend into Mustang’s stark alpine desert, far away from the monsoon chaos.

Nar Phu Valley Trek

• Duration: 10–15 days
• Max Altitude: Around 5,320 m (Kang La Pass)
• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
• Permits: Restricted Area Permit (Approx. $90/week) + Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)
• Lodging: Basic tea houses in villages, limited facilities

The Nar Phu Valley Trek offers an incredible blend of remote wilderness, Himalayan scenery, and traditional Tibetan villages tucked between the Annapurna and Manaslu ranges. Because it lies in a high-altitude rain shadow, it’s among the most reliable summer trekking options in Nepal. Trails remain drier than expected, and monsoon wildflowers decorate the trail beautifully.

Trekkers will explore medieval stone villages, sacred gompas, and ascend the Kang La Pass, which boasts jaw-dropping views of Annapurna II and Gangapurna. With few tourists on the route, monsoon season here feels like a personal journey through an untouched corner of the Himalayas. See our Nar Phu Valley Trek package for full details.

Dolpo Region Trek

• Duration: 18–27 days
• Max Altitude: Around 5,190 m (Kagmara La Pass or others)
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Permits: Upper Dolpo Permit (Approx. $500 for 10 days) + Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry
• Lodging: Camping trek or basic lodges in a few villages

The Upper Dolpo trek lies in far-western Nepal, offering a raw, spiritual, and physically demanding trekking experience. Even during the peak monsoon months, this arid, high-altitude region remains largely dry, making it ideal for experienced trekkers seeking an adventurous escape in the rain-shadow Himalayas.

Highlights include the mesmerizing turquoise waters of Shey Phoksundo Lake, the ancient Shey Gompa, and encounters with traditional Bonpo and Buddhist communities. Monsoon trekkers benefit from wild, empty trails and dramatic lighting conditions.

Khopra Danda Trek

• Duration: 7–10 days
• Max Altitude: Around 3,660 m (Khopra Ridge)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Permits: ACAP + TIMS Card
• Lodging: Community lodges and tea houses

The Khopra Danda Trek is an emerging monsoon-friendly route that offers stunning ridgeline walking and views comparable to Poon Hill, but with far fewer crowds. Even in summer, the higher sections often sit above the cloud line, offering brilliant sunrise views of Annapurna I, Nilgiri, and Machhapuchhre.

You can also explore the sacred Khayer Lake as a day excursion. The trail features rustic yet warm community-run lodges, giving back to the local economy. This is a peaceful and scenic choice for monsoon trekking in Nepal.

Annapurna Circuit Trek

• Duration: 7–20 days
• Max Altitude: Around 5,416 m (Thorong La Pass)
• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
• Permits: ACAP + TIMS Card
• Lodging: Tea houses with varying comfort levels

Although lower sections of the Annapurna Circuit get heavy rain during monsoon, the segment from Chame upward including Manang, Thorong La, and Muktinath lies within the rain-shadow, making it a great summer alternative. Expect fewer leeches, blooming wildflowers, and crisp mountain views in the higher zones.

This trek crosses stunning terrain and offers cultural highlights like Buddhist gompas, high-mountain villages, and views of Annapurna II, Gangapurna, and Tilicho. By starting the circuit from the north side, trekkers can safely and comfortably enjoy one of Nepal’s greatest treks in the monsoon.

Other Treks Worth Considering in Monsoon

Everest View Trek

• Duration: 5–8 days
• Max Altitude: Around 3,867 m (Tengboche)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Permits: Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit + Sagarmatha National Park Entry
• Lodging: Tea houses in all villages

The Everest View Trek is a shorter and less strenuous alternative to the classic EBC trek, ideal for monsoon months when the higher Khumbu sees brief, predictable rain patterns. While flights to Lukla can be delayed, the trails around Namche and Tengboche often offer clear skies in the morning and easy trekking conditions.

This route showcases majestic views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam, along with visits to vibrant Sherpa villages and sacred monasteries. With fewer tourists, you'll enjoy serene mountain paths and easy availability at lodges.

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

• Duration: 2–7 days
• Max Altitude: Around 3,210 m (Poon Hill)
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Permits: ACAP + TIMS Card
• Lodging: Comfortable tea houses throughout the trail

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is an excellent short trek in Nepal suitable even during monsoon, especially in late July and August. Mornings often offer clear, dazzling views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges, while the afternoon rains give the forested trails a lush, rejuvenated feel.

You’ll walk through blooming rhododendron forests and charming Magar villages, making it an ideal family or first-timer trek. The Poon hill trail is well-marked and accommodations are plentiful and cozy.

Tips for Trekking in Nepal During Monsoon

Choose rain-shadow destinations like Mustang and Dolpo: These areas get much less rainfall during monsoon and offer safer, drier trekking conditions.

Carry waterproof gear (jacket, boots, bag cover): Good quality waterproof clothing and gear will keep you comfortable and protect your belongings.

Pack insect repellent and leech socks: Protect yourself from mosquitoes and leeches, especially in lower forested areas.

Avoid landslide-prone areas like Langtang and lower Annapurna Circuit: Heavy rains increase landslide risk in these zones, so it’s best to avoid them during monsoon.

Hire a local guide who knows alternate routes: Guides can help navigate trail closures or reroutes safely during unpredictable weather. Himalayan Recreation would be your best trekking partner as we have 100% success rate even in the Monsoon. 

Add buffer days: Allow a couple of extra days at the beginning or end of your trek to account for potential delays in flights or landslide-related roadblocks. A flexible schedule ensures you don’t miss international flights or key connections.

Buy the Comprehensive Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is better to have incase of flight delay cancel and in the emergency to avoid the unnecessay extra large amount.

Essential Packing List for Monsoon Trekking

• Backpack rain cover: Essential for keeping your gear dry during sudden downpours.
• Water bottle and purification tablets: Carry a reusable bottle with tablets or a filter for safe hydration.
• Quick-dry clothes (synthetic or merino wool): Stay dry and comfortable by wearing fabrics that wick moisture and dry quickly.
• Lightweight down jacket for evenings: Nights can be chilly, especially above 3,500 meters.
• Waterproof hiking boots & sandals: Boots for tough terrain; sandals are handy for rivers or resting your feet.
• Leech socks or salt: Useful to prevent or remove leeches in humid lower regions.
• Sunscreen and sunglasses: UV rays can be strong even when cloudy; protect your skin and eyes.
• First-aid kit and altitude medicines: Carry essentials to handle minor injuries and altitude sickness.

FAQs

Which months are considered the monsoon season in Nepal?

Monsoon season in Nepal is generally from mid-June to early September, with some areas seeing monsoon rain as early as late May or as late as the end of August or early September.

Is it safe to trek in Nepal during the monsoon season?

It is certainly possible to trek during monsoon season in Nepal, but there are some aspects that make it more challenging, including muddy/flooded trails, landslides, and swollen rivers. Safety depends on your planning, choosing the right routes, and utilizing your rain gear properly. In some regions, especially in the rain-shadow areas of Upper Mustang and Dolpo, conditions are much safer and drier than other regions.

Can I see mountain views during the monsoon treks?

Yes, mountain views are actually very nice during monsoon season. When it rains, it washes away dust and pollution and sometimes leaves you with clear and crisp views of snow-capped mountains, particularly in the mornings after it rains.

What should I pack for monsoon trekking in Nepal?

Not surprisingly, first and foremost; you need to be prepared with the right gear. Some items you will need include waterproof and windproof jackets, backpack rain covers, sturdy trekking boots with a good grip, trekking poles and quick-dry clothing. Staying dry is key if you want to be comfortable while trekking on wet terrain.

Are tea houses open during the monsoon season?

Yes, tea houses on famous trekking routes will be open during the monsoon season. In fact, the number of tourists is typically less, so you may find you have better availability and the staff will be able to attend to you much better.

Are there leeches on monsoon treks?

Yes, leeches are present on many trails during the monsoon, since conditions are wet and humid. If you take precautions, such as wearing gaiters and using insect repellent, then you will be able to manage this well enough.

Can beginners do monsoon treks in Nepal? 

There are certain monsoon treks that can be undertaken by beginners, such as Ghorepani Poon Hill or Nagarkot, if they take easier routes, prepare well, and are flexible with their plans. That being said, beginners should avoid risky trails that are at risk to landslides and heavier rain.

Conclusion

Choosing a monsoon trek in Nepal means swapping peak‑season traffic for tranquil trails, vibrant high‑desert culture and luminous post‑rain vistas. Whether you wander the ochre alleyways of Lo Manthang, circle the glassy waters of Phoksundo or push over Kang La into Nar, the summer Himalaya rewards you with raw authenticity and clear, crowd‑free horizons.

Ready to customize your 2025 and 2026 monsoon adventure? Himalayan Recreation’s expert guides, logistics team and rain‑season know‑how are at your service, simply drop us a line or ping us on WhatsApp (+977‑9851101413) and let’s start planning your best monsoon trek in Nepal.