Visiting Nepal in August: A Guide to Weather, Festivals and Things to Do

Nepal is one of the most picturesque places on the continent. Comprising a wide variety of flora and fauna, monuments, and tribal people, Nepal is the place that every traveler should visit at least once in his/her lifetime. In August, Nepal is the rainy season, but it never deters people from visiting the country. The beauty of rain blended with Nepal’s landscape attracted many tourists during this period. If you are looking to travel to this beautiful place during August, here are some facts regarding the weather and activities you must engage in

The Weather in Nepal in August

Nepal is at its peak monsoon season in August, and the weather varies across different regions. In the Southern region, places like Terai experience intense rainfall, with temperatures ranging from 28°C to 35°C, leading to lush greenery. Destinations in hilly regions like Kathmandu Valley have mild weather with occasional rainfall, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 28°C.

You can explore the temples and beautiful streets of Bhaktapur and Kathmandu in peace. The upper Mustang region provides spectacular mountain scenery, and you can totally trek to the world of the old Buddhist kingdom of Mustang as the weather conditions are perfect for this trek. The weather is chilly in the northern mountainous regions, including the Himalayas, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. However, trekking is not advisable due to landslides.

Things to Do in Nepal in August 

1. Visiting the Farmlands

During August, one can experience the dazzling green crops all around the valleys in the Kathmandu region. Mustang lies in the shadow side of the Himalayas, and it does not experience the monsoon the whole country does. Because of its geographical location, the weather is cool, which provides the perfect conditions to hang out with fellow travelers. If you are a big fan of trekking and August is the only time you can visit the country, have a look at Lower and Upper Mustang. 

2. Visiting the Kathmandu Valley

The Kathmandu Valley is the main tourist spot in the country. Comprising of beautiful villages, markets, and many unique locations, you can head out to visit the Kathmandu Valley to experience the uniqueness this country presents in tourism.

Festivals in Nepal in August

Nepal is widely regarded as the nation that celebrates the highest number of festivals in the world. Here are the festivals one could witness while traveling to Nepal in August.

 1. Janai Purnima

Janai Purnima, or Raksha Bandhan as used in India, is a Hindu festival which is celebrated all over the country. Many Shamans from the valley gather and perform the ancient rites at Kumbeshwar temple. On the occasion of Janai Purnima, Hindu men renew their Janai. This festival is very popular amongst the citizens as on this day, people hold family get-togethers. 

Date: 3rd August 2020

 2. Gai Jatra

This is one of the most colorful festivals in Nepal. People wear bright costumes and traditional dresses to mark the beginning of this festival. For a traveler, it is recommended to visit the Great Durbar Square at Bhaktapur to witness the epic annual celebration. This festival is celebrated with a background story that includes a popular King who gathered people to cheer up his queen since their son had died. A cheerful festival, make sure that you witness the Gai Jatra whenever you visit Nepal in August.

Date: 19th August 2020

3. Krishna Janmashtami

The diversity in traditions makes Nepal a unique country. During August, one can witness the Krishna Janmashtami, a festival which is celebrated on the occasion of Lord Krishna’s birthday. 

Date: 11th August 2020

What to Pack for Nepal in August

As rainfall is omnipresent during August, you should be equipped with umbrellas and raincoats. An increase in temperature is experienced during this month. Hence, cotton material dress is recommended. The following things should be present in your backpack if you are visiting Nepal in August.

• Raincoats and Umbrellas
• Trekking equipment( if you want to do trekking)
• Navigation tools

The beautiful fields, trekking in Mustang, and witnessing traditional festivals like Gai Jatra attract tourists to Nepal in August. If you have a hectic schedule, and August is the only time you can have a trip to Nepal, make sure to witness the above-mentioned beauty of Nepal.