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Autumn is one of the best trekking seasons in Nepal. This time of year from September to November, has the perfect mix of great weather, breathtaking scenery, and exciting cultural activities and festivities. As a result, September to November marks the start of the Nepal trekking season.
The weather is absolutely perfect in this season. The monsoon rains have gone and the skies are clear and fresh. In the mountains, you get to see the views of the snow-capped peaks that are stunningly clear and the landscapes lush and green.
The temperatures during autumn are mild, making trekking comfortable and enjoyable. Unlike the scorching summer months or freezing winter, the fall season provides a pleasant climate for hiking or trekking on Himalayan trails.
In lower elevations, the daytime temperatures can range from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F)and nighttime temperatures can drop to 10°C (50°F) or lower. Likewise, in higher elevations, the daytime temperatures can range from 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F) and nighttime temperatures can drop to 0°C (32°F) or below.
Whether you’re trekking in the Annapurna, Everest, Langtang, or Manaslu regions, the post-monsoon season is ideal for any trek you choose.
Autumn is also the season of Nepal’s most important festivals. The major festivals Dashain and Tihar happen around this time, making it even more special for those who are trekking.
Dashain celebrated in September or October is a 15-day festival, the longest and most celebrated in Nepal. This festival celebrates the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura. You’ll see towns and villages adorned with flower decorations, hear the sound of traditional music, and families come together to celebrate with feasts putting red and white Tikas( a mixture of rice, yogurt, and vermilion), and playing swing and flying kite.
Following Dashain, Tihar is celebrated in October or November. It is also called the Festival of Lights. During Tihar, houses are lit up with oil lamps and candles, and the streets are lined with bright marigold flowers. What makes this festival unique is how it celebrates not just people, but animals too, cows, dogs, and even crows are worshiped during different days of the festival. If you’re trekking during Tihar, you might even be invited to join in the Bhai Tika ceremony, where brothers and sisters exchange blessings and gifts.
Not to mention, there’s a joy everywhere. Autumn really does bring together the best of both worlds in Nepal: the incredible Nepal autumn landscapes of the Himalayas and the deep cultural traditions of the Nepalese people.
While trekking in this season, you’ll see how locals prepare for festivals, visit temples, and share food with neighbors. You might even get to witness these moments very closely, something that a typical trekking season might not offer. So here are some autumn treks you can do in Nepal.
Best Autumn Treks in Nepal
Everest Base Camp Trek
Everest Base Camp Trek is the most interesting trek you can do in autumn. As mentioned above, the weather is perfect and the skies are clear in this season. For trekkers, this means waking up to jaw-dropping views of snow-capped peaks like Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and, of course, Mount Everest itself. The mild temperatures are perfect for trekking, neither too cold nor too hot and you can comfortably hike during the day while enjoying cooler, pleasant evenings.
Not to mention, the festive atmosphere along the trail. As you trek through villages, you’ll witness homes adorned with lights, flowers, and traditional decorations and see locals engaged in celebrations.
One of the autumn-specific cultural highlights in the Everest region is the Mani Rimdu Festival. Held in Tengboche Monastery in October or November, it is a colorful, spiritual event where monks perform sacred rituals and masked dances to mark the triumph of Buddhism over the ancient animistic Bon religion.
This makes the trek in autumn a more culturally immersive experience, as trekkers can time their trip to coincide with the festival and experience the unique celebrations. Sublime Trails has a trekking package that specially focuses on this festival: Everest Mani Rimdu Festival Trek.
Unlike the busy spring trekking season, autumn has a more balanced number of trekkers. This means you’ll have a social atmosphere, but the trails are not overcrowded. As the weather is ideal, teahouses along the trail are comfortably filled, providing an authentic yet relaxed environment to connect with fellow trekkers. There’s also more availability of accommodation, allowing you to soak in the serenity of the trek while enjoying the company of travelers from around the world.
Arguably, the landscape in autumn is stunning compared to the rest of the year. The post-monsoon flora blooms at lower altitudes. As you trek from Lukla to Namche Bazaar, you’ll notice the forests and terraced fields take on shades of gold, red, and orange. This striking change in scenery is something exclusive to autumn. The trails are often lined with blooming wildflowers like rhododendrons. While rhododendrons are known for their spring bloom, in the lower elevations during autumn, you might still catch the late bloomers of this iconic flower, especially in shaded areas.
As you trek from lower elevations to higher altitudes, you’ll pass through dense forests of pine and juniper. In autumn, these forests take on warm, earthy tones, with a mix of evergreen foliage and the changing leaves of deciduous trees. The juniper trees, in particular, are of great importance as their branches are used in local religious ceremonies at monasteries.
As you go higher up, the greenery starts to disappear and you are surrounded by the stunning, rugged beauty of the high-altitude Himalayan landscape. It's an adventure that changes every day, from stepped farms to grassy meadows, and finally to the rocky, icy wilderness near Everest.
At higher altitudes, around Namche Bazaar and Tengboche, you'll trek through blue pine and birch forests. As fall goes on, the birch leaves change to a stunning golden-yellow color, standing out against the evergreen trees and making the surroundings look beautiful.
Furthermore, autumn is the harvest season in the lower valleys of the Khumbu region. As you trek through villages, you’ll see locals harvesting crops like barley, buckwheat, and potatoes. This is a season of fresh crops and veggies, and the meals you enjoy at teahouses along the trek include freshly harvested.
You’ll also get to see various wildlife like the Himalayan Thar. With the cooler autumn temperatures, Himalayan Thars are more active, and trekkers may spot them grazing on mountain pastures.
Similarly, musk deer can be spotted in the dense forests at lower elevations. Autumn provides a good opportunity to see them, as they roam the forests in search of food before the winter months. Danphe or Himalayan monal, Nepal’s national bird, is frequently seen during autumn treks. The Danphe is most commonly spotted in forested areas around Tengboche and Dingboche.
It’s rare to see snow leopards, but if you hike through the Khumbu region in the fall, there’s a small chance you could spot one.
Above all, weather conditions in autumn are more reliable, meaning that flights to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region, are less likely to be delayed or canceled compared to monsoon or winter. The consistent, stable weather during autumn ensures you can stick to your schedule and avoid disruptions in your travel plans.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is such a standout in autumn because this season brings out the very best of the region. The stable weather, beautiful flora, and diverse wildlife come together to create a truly special trekking experience.
One of the first things you’ll notice in autumn is how clear the skies are. You get to see those jaw-dropping views of Annapurna I, Machapuchare, and other nearby peaks uninterrupted, especially in the mornings.
And then there’s the temperature. Days are cool, ranging from around 10°C to 20°C, which is perfect for trekking. You’re not drenched in sweat as you might be in the summer, and it’s nowhere near as cold as it can get in the winter months. Evenings and nights are cool too, but a good sleeping bag and some cozy tea houses along the route will keep you comfortable.
When you trek in autumn, especially through the lower regions of the Annapurna trail, the forests are an incredible sight. Even though spring is when rhododendrons bloom, autumn brings its own burst of color. The forests, which are rich in oak, maple, and bamboo, start to turn shades of gold, red, and orange as the season progresses. You will often hear the crunch of fallen leaves beneath your boots.
But it’s not just the forests that are eye-catching. As you pass through the terraced farmlands in the lower hills, you’ll see crops like millet, barley, and maize ripening in the sun. The golden fields are beautiful. Plus, it’s harvest season, so you might get glimpses of local farmers working in the fields.
You’ll also spot various birds and wildlife in this region. With the monsoon over, animals and birds are more active. Keep an eye out for the colorful Himalayan monal. You’ll see animals like mountain goats, langurs, and even the elusive red panda.
One of the most unique aspects of trekking the ABC route in autumn is the timing with Nepal’s two major festivals: Dashain and Tihar. These festivals aren’t just small local celebrations; they’re massive, and you’ll feel the festive spirit in the villages you pass through.
You can also choose another trek in the Annapurna region which is Nar Phu Valley Trek if you want to experience rich Tibetan culture. Likewise, there’s also the Mardi Himal Trek, if you want an easy-to-moderate trek in the same region.
Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek
The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is a hidden gem among the treks in Nepal, and doing it in autumn takes the experience to a whole new level. With its remote trails, stunning landscapes, and the unbeatable majesty of the world’s third-highest mountain, autumn reveals the best of what this region has to offer.
One of the main reasons autumn is the ideal time for the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is the spectacular views. As you trek through the remote trails, the peaks of Kanchenjunga (8,586m), Jannu (7,710m), and other surrounding giants feel so close and so vividly visible that you almost feel like you can reach out and touch them.
During autumn, the visibility is especially good in the mornings. It’s not just the towering peaks either, the entire landscape feels more alive in autumn. The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek takes you through the remote and stunningly beautiful eastern region of Nepal, specifically the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area. This area is part of the Taplejung District, which borders Sikkim in India. It’s one of the more secluded trekking regions in Nepal that gives you different adventures and discoveries than in the more popular trekking routes.
As you trek through the Kanchenjunga region, you'll experience a range of landscapes and ecosystems. Your trek begins in the subtropical Terai region and quickly ascends into the lush mid-hills. You'll traverse through dense forests, terraced fields, and traditional villages. The lower altitudes are characterized by subtropical and temperate forests with rich biodiversity.
As you climb higher, the forests transition to temperate and subalpine zones. You’ll walk through dense rhododendron and oak forests, which in autumn burst into colors of red, orange, and gold. Above the treeline, the landscape shifts to rugged alpine meadows and rocky terrain. The higher you go, the more dramatic the scenery becomes, with sweeping views of glaciers and snow-capped peaks. The terrain here is often more challenging, with steep ascents and descents.
Approaching the base camp, you’ll walk along glacial valleys and moraine ridges. The icy landscapes and crevasses provide a stunning backdrop to the trek. The views of Kanchenjunga and its surrounding peaks from the base camp are truly breathtaking.
One of the highlights of the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek is the opportunity to visit some of Nepal’s most remote and culturally rich villages. These include:
Ghunsa: A large village that is a key stop on the trek. It’s known for its beautiful setting and traditional Tibetan-influenced architecture.
Kambachen: A picturesque village with views of the surrounding peaks, providing insight into the traditional lifestyle of the people in this region.
Lhonak: A more remote settlement, which is often the gateway to higher altitudes. It offers a glimpse into the hardy lifestyle of the highland communities.
The Kanchenjunga Conservation Area is full of diverse and amazing wildlife. It’s home to rare and endangered species, such as the red panda, snow leopard, and Himalayan tahr. The area also supports a wide range of bird species, including the Himalayan monal and various pheasants.
Because the Kanchenjunga area is less trekked than the more popular routes like Annapurna or Everest, the villages along the trail have retained a very traditional way of life.
In autumn, as you trek through villages like Ghunsa and Kambachen, you’ll notice locals busy with their harvest, preparing for the winter months. This gives you a chance to witness the lifestyle of the ethnic Limbu, Rai, and Sherpa communities. Their homes are often adorned with prayer flags.
Since autumn is also festival season, you might even be lucky enough to witness some local celebrations. Although Kanchenjunga is more remote, the same major festivals, Dashain and Tihar are celebrated here too, but in a much more intimate and traditional way compared to the more tourist-heavy areas of Nepal. You can join in with the locals, experiencing their hospitality and culture up close.
One of the best parts about trekking to Kanchenjunga Base Camp in autumn is the solitude. While treks like Everest and Annapurna get quite crowded in the autumn season, Kanchenjunga remains relatively untouched.
Manaslu Circuit Trek
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is an absolute gem in autumn. This trek is located in the Manaslu Conservation Area, situated in the Gorkha District of Nepal. This area is less frequented compared to more popular treks like Everest and Annapurna.
As you trek through the Manaslu region, you’ll pass through several ethnic villages with Tibetan influences. Autumn is a lively time in these communities. You get to see traditional village life closely including how local families prepare for and celebrate festivals.
The circuit covers a wide range of geographic features, from lush terraced fields and dense forests to high-altitude landscapes. As the season goes on, the scenery undergoes a beautiful change with bright shades of red, orange, and yellow. The forests along the trail, especially in the lower areas, are adorned with colorful leaves. The once lush and green rhododendron trees transform into beautiful autumn colors during this time.
Autumn is a great time for wildlife spotting in the Manaslu region. The cooler temperatures make animals more active and easier to spot. You might encounter species such as the Himalayan tahr, blue sheep, and the elusive snow leopard in the higher altitudes. You will also enjoy sightings of various species, including the Himalayan monal.
Langtang Valley Trek
Autumn turns the Langtang Valley Trek into a spectacular journey. During autumn, the visibility is top-notch, letting you take in those stunning views of the Langtang Lirung and Ganesh Himal peaks in all their glory.
Langtang Valley has a diverse landscape. The trek begins in Syabrubesi and takes you through a mix of terrains: lush subtropical forests, open alpine meadows, and rugged moraine. The higher you go, the more dramatic the landscapes become.
This season is when Langtang Valley really shows off its colors. The forests around here are absolutely stunning in the fall. You’ll be strolling through woods filled with rhododendrons showing off different colors like reds, oranges, and yellows. The birch and oak trees also jump in on the color show, bringing even more beautiful shades to the scenery.
You might spot the elusive red panda among the rhododendron and oak forests. Look out for the Himalayan tahr, a wild goat that’s quite at home in these high altitudes. Also, see the Himalayan monal and other high-altitude species that make their appearance during this time.
The Langtang region is home to the Tamang people, and autumn is a wonderful time to experience their culture. You might get a chance to see local festivals and rituals. The villages along the route, like Lama Hotel, Mundu, and Kyanjin Gompa, offer a glimpse into traditional Tamang life.
One of the best things about the Langtang Valley Trek is how accessible it is. It’s just a short drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi, making it a convenient option if you’re short on time. Plus, the trek is moderate in difficulty, which means it’s suitable for trekkers of various experience levels. It’s not as remote or challenging as some other treks, so it’s a great choice if you’re looking for a rewarding trek without needing extensive preparation.
There’s also another trek in the Langtang region which is Langtang Helambu Trek. This trek explores the Langtang Valley's beauty with the Helambu region's scenic splendor. The added Helambu section introduces you to different terrains and scenery, providing a more varied trekking experience.
The Helambu region is home to the Hyolmo people, who have their own distinct culture and traditions. By extending your trek into this area, you get to experience a richer experience of Nepalese culture. The Helambu section allows you to explore different villages with their unique customs, temples, and traditional lifestyles.
One of the benefits of the Langtang Helambu Trek is that it tends to be less crowded compared to the Langtang Valley Trek. The Helambu region, while popular, doesn’t see as many trekkers as the Langtang Valley, especially during peak trekking seasons. This means you can enjoy a more tranquil and less crowded experience.
Furthermore, the Langtang Helambu Trek is slightly longer and more challenging compared to the Langtang Valley Trek. It usually takes about 10 to 14 days to complete, depending on your pace and itinerary. The trek involves crossing the Lauribina La Pass, which adds a bit of a challenge but also provides breathtaking views.
Upper Mustang Trek
The Upper Mustang Trek is one of Nepal's most unique trekking experiences, particularly in the autumn season. Situated in the northern part of Nepal, bordering Tibet, the trek takes you through the once-restricted kingdom of Lo Manthang and offers views of the trans-Himalayan region.
The trek takes you to ancient Buddhist monasteries, chortens, and caves carved into cliffs, which seem even more magical in the autumn. Lo Manthang, the capital of the former Kingdom of Mustang, becomes a highlight of the trek, offering a peek into Tibetan-influenced culture that remains full of spirit despite modernization.
The landscape in Upper Mustang is like nowhere else in Nepal. It’s dry, with deep gorges, and eroded cliffs, and feels almost like a desert.
Of course, it’s not just the landscape that makes the Upper Mustang Trek in autumn so special, it’s the rich culture you get to experience along the way. The people here are deeply connected to their Tibetan roots, and their ancient monasteries, chortens, and cliff-carved caves are steeped in history. The capital, Lo Manthang, is a highlight, giving you a glimpse into a world that’s stayed true to its traditions, even as time moves on.
You’ll also notice that during autumn, locals are busy preparing for the coming winter. The fields are alive with activity, and you might stumble upon festivals or rituals related to the harvest. It’s such an authentic way to experience the culture much more than just passing through.
While Upper Mustang is known for its barren, desert-like terrain, autumn brings out a softer side of the region. Wild buckwheat plants bloom during this time. You’ll also see poplar trees along the way, and in autumn, their leaves turn this amazing shade of golden yellow.
Though the region is not known for dense forests, the unique high-altitude ecosystem has several species of fauna. You might spot blue sheep, Himalayan marmots, or even the elusive snow leopard, which starts descending to lower altitudes as the weather cools. Birds like the Lammergeier and Himalayan Griffon are also commonly seen during this season.
This trek is perfect for trekkers who want to explore a more remote, culturally rich part of Nepal.
Autumn Festivals in Nepal
Dashain (September-October)
Dashain is the biggest Hindu festival celebrated in Nepal and worldwide by the Nepali people. It is also known as Bada Dashain or Vijaya Dashami. Interestingly, it is also celebrated in regions like Sikkim, West Bengal, and Assam in India, as well as by the Lhotshampa in Bhutan and the Burmese Gurkhas of Myanmar.
Dashain symbolizes the victory of good over evil and spans 15 days making it the longest and most auspicious festival in Nepal.
For followers of Shaktism, Dashain celebrates the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. For others, the festival marks the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana, as narrated in the Ramayana. The festival holds deep meaning, symbolizing the victory of good over evil, and is celebrated with great excitement across the country. Dashain is also about family, as many Nepali people who live abroad come home to celebrate with their loved ones.
The most important days during the 15 days of the festivals are Ghatasthapana (Day 1), Phulpati (Day 7), Maha Asthami (Day 8), Maha Navami (Day 9), Bijaya Dashami (Day 10), Papakunsha Ekadashi (Day 11), and Kojagrat Purnima (Day 15).
Day 1:Ghatasthapana
The festival begins with Ghatasthapana, which literally means "placing the Kalash(sacred vessel)." On this day, barley seeds are sown in a Kalash filled with holy water, and prayers are offered to Goddess Durga. The seeds grow into jamara, which are yellowish-green sacred grasses used in blessings on the tenth day. The Kalash and jamara are kept in a special room called the Dashain Ghar, and prayers are offered daily until the seventh day.
Day 7: Phulpati
Phulpati, celebrated on the seventh day is the arrival of sacred flowers, jamara, and banana stalks from Gorkha to Kathmandu. Historically, this event was attended by the King of Nepal, but after the monarchy's end in 2008, the tradition continued with the President. A grand procession is held in Tundikhel, Kathmandu, featuring the Nepalese Army's parade and ceremonial firing of weapons. Likewise, in other villages, cities, or towns, Phulpati is celebrated by people offering flowers and fruits to honor the goddess.
Day 8: Maha Asthami
On Maha Asthami, the most fierce manifestation of Goddess Durga, Kali, is worshipped. Animal sacrifices of buffaloes, goats, and hens are made in temples across the country. The blood is believed to symbolize fertility, and the meat from the sacrifices is distributed as prasad (blessed food). In some regions, Newar communities celebrate Khadga Puja, where weapons are worshipped as symbols of power and protection. The night of Maha Asthami is called Kal Ratri (Black Night), signifying the victory of good over evil.
Day 9: Maha Navami
The ninth day, Maha Navami, is the climax of the Navaratri celebration. This day is for rituals and sacrifices to honor Goddess Durga and appease evil spirits. Tools, vehicles, and machinery are also worshipped to ensure safety and prosperity for the coming year. The Taleju Temple in Kathmandu, which remains closed throughout the year, opens its doors to the public only on this day. Thousands of devotees gather to pay homage to the goddess.
Day 10: Bijaya Dashami
Bijaya Dashami is the most important day of Dashain. On this day, elders bless younger family members by placing tika (a mixture of rice, yogurt, and vermilion) and jamara on their foreheads. On this day, family and relatives get together to exchange blessings, tika, and good wishes. The elders also give a small amount of money called dakshina(token amount of money) to the younger ones as a token of love and blessings. It's a day to celebrate and wish each other prosperity, health, and good fortune.
Day 11: Papakunsha Ekadashi
On the eleventh day, Ekadashi, people usually fast and do religious stuff. In some places, the tika rituals go on until today, while in other areas, people start visiting family and exchanging blessings. On this day, people pray and give to charity, believing it will bring them good stuff in the afterlife.
Day 12: Kojagrat Purnima
On the last day of Dashain, Kojagrat Purnima, which is the full moon day, people stay awake throughout the night to welcome Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. It's believed that she descends to bless those who stay awake. On this day, people have fun playing games, singing, and praying for prosperity. It's a time for families to celebrate the end of the festival.
Tihar (October-November)
Right after Dashain comes Tihar, a five-day festival dedicated to different deities. Tihar is also called the festival of lights, Deepawali, or Yamapanchak. This festival celebrates the worship of crows, dogs, cows, and Lakshmi (the goddess of wealth). The festival usually takes place between October and November, starting with Kaag (crow) Tihar and ending with Bhai Tika.
Day 1: Kaag Tihar (Crow Tihar)
The festival begins with Kaag Tihar, where Nepalese people worship crows and ravens. In Hindu mythology, these birds are considered messengers of Yama, and their cawing is associated with grief. To satisfy them and prevent sorrow from entering their homes, people offer grains, seeds, and sweets to the crows, placing them on rooftops or streets. On the same day, Dhanteras or Dhanwantari Jayanti is observed, where people honor the god of medicine, Dhanvantari, and often buy jewelry, utensils, or household appliances, as it is considered an auspicious day to bring prosperity into the home.
Day 2: Kukur Tihar (Dog Tihar)
The second day of Tihar, Kukur Tihar, is for worshipping dogs. Dogs are believed to be loyal protectors, both in this life and the next. In Hindu mythology, Yama is said to have two guard dogs that watch over the gates of hell. On this day, dogs are honored with tika on their foreheads, garlands of marigolds, and delicious treats, whether they are pets or strays. The festival also celebrates the ancient bond between humans and dogs, as symbolized in the Mahabharata, where Yudhishthira refuses to enter heaven without his loyal dog.
Day 3: Gai Tihar and Lakshmi Puja (Cow Tihar)
The third day of Tihar is considered the most important and fun. In the morning, Gai Tihar is observed, in which cows, sacred in Hinduism, are worshipped. Cows are regarded as a source of nourishment, providing milk, ghee, and other essentials. On this day, people offer garlands, tika, and special food to cows in gratitude for their gifts to humankind.
In the evening, Lakshmi Puja (Goddess of wealth) is celebrated, where homes are thoroughly cleaned and decorated with marigold garlands, and the door step is covered with colorful patterns called rangoli and rows of oil lamps to welcome the goddess Lakshmi. Nepalis believe that Lakshmi only visits well-lit homes, so people also adorn their homes with electric lights. A special puja is performed, asking for prosperity and health. Additionally, young girls and boys participate in a singing and dancing tradition called Bhailo, going from house to house in exchange for money and treats.
Day 4: Govardhan Puja and Mha Puja
On the fourth day of Tihar, multiple celebrations take place. Govardhan Puja is observed by Vaishnav Hindus, who worship the holy Govardhan mountain. A mound of cow dung symbolizes the mountain, and prayers are offered for protection and blessings.
The day is also marked by Goru Puja, where oxen are worshipped for their role in agriculture. As an agrarian society, Nepal honors oxen for their labor in farming.
For the Newar community, the day is important for Mha Puja, a unique tradition in which individuals worship themselves, recognizing the soul and the importance of self-care. This day also coincides with the Newar New Year, according to the Nepal Sambat calendar.
Day 5: Bhai Tika
The final day of Tihar is Bhai Tika, which celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters. According to legend, when Yama came to take the soul of his sister Yamuna’s brother, she requested him to wait until she completed her ritual. She then performed a long puja, which included placing a protective tika on her brother’s forehead, a garland of makhamali flowers (Gomphrena globosa) around his neck, and sprinkling oil to protect him from death.
On Bhai Tika, sisters perform a similar ritual for their brothers, placing a seven-colored tika on their foreheads and offering garlands made of makhamali flowers, which symbolize longevity. Brothers, in turn, place tika on their sisters, and gifts are exchanged to symbolize love, respect, and protection. The ceremony is deeply rooted in the emotional and spiritual connection between siblings, ensuring their well-being for the coming year.
Throughout the five days, people participate in a wide range of customs, from making colorful rangolis on their doorsteps to singing traditional songs and engaging in games of chance like cards and cowrie shells. As one of Nepal’s biggest festivals, Tihar holds a special place in the hearts of Nepalese.
Indra Jatra (September)
Indra Jatra is the grandest religious street festival in Kathmandu Valley. This festival celebrates the descent of Indra, the king of heaven, to earth. It features colorful chariots, street processions, and cultural performances.
It is also known as Yenyā Punhi. Its name derives from the Newari language, where "Ye" refers to "Kathmandu," "Ya" means “celebration,” and "Puhni" signifies the full moon, symbolizing the birthday of the ancient city of Kathmandu. Celebrated with great enthusiasm, the festival spans eight days and consists of two major events: Indra Jatra and Kumari Jatra.
Indra Jatra was initiated in the 10th century by King Gunakamadeva to commemorate the founding of Kathmandu. Kumari Jatra, on the other hand, started in the mid-18th century during the reign of Jaya Prakash Malla.
The festival starts with Yosin Thanegu, where a special ceremonial pole, called Yosin, is raised at Kathmandu Durbar Square. This tree is brought from a nearby forest and pulled to the square in steps. Another key event on the first day is Upaku Wanegu, where people walk along a sacred path around Kathmandu’s old town, lighting incense and butter lamps to honor their deceased family members.
One of the highlights of Indra Jatra is Kumari Jatra, the chariot procession of the living goddess Kumari, along with deities Ganesh and Bhairava. The chariots, accompanied by musical bands, are pulled through different parts of Kathmandu over three days.
On the first day, called Kwaneya, the procession moves through the southern part of town. The second day, Yenya Punhi, marks the full moon, with the procession passing through the northern part of the city. On the third day, Nanichaya, the chariots travel through the central areas. Since 2012, the chariot of Kumari has been pulled by an all-women team on the third day.
Mata Biye is an important part of the first day of Kumari Jatra, where butter lamps are lit along the parade route to honor family members who have passed away. Another key procession, called Dagin, shows Indra's mother searching for her son, with music playing and mourners following. Similarly, Bau Mata, a snake-shaped figure made from reeds and lit with oil lamps, is carried along the festival path.
Indra Jatra is also famous for its unique masked dances, which depict various gods, demons, and mythical creatures.
Large masks of Bhairava, the terrifying aspect of Shiva, are displayed across Kathmandu. One of the most important is the massive Sweta Bhairava at Durbar Square, from whose mouth alcohol and rice beer are dispensed. The Dasavatar, a depiction of the ten incarnations of Vishnu, is exhibited in front of the Kumari House.
The festival ends with the Yosin Kwathalegu ceremony, where the ceremonial pole is taken down, signaling the official close of Indra Jatra. Besides the religious rituals, it's also a time for outdoor theatre performances, called Dabu Pyākhan, which entertain the community with social messages, satire, and comedy.
Indra Jatra is not just confined to Kathmandu. In the Terai region of Nepal and parts of Northern Bihar in India, it is celebrated as Indra Puja. While the rituals differ, the essence of the festival remains, connecting it to its roots in the Lichhavi period.
Mani Rimdu (October-November)
Mani Rimdu is a 19-day festival celebrated by Buddhists in the Everest region of Nepal, particularly in the monasteries of Tengboche, Thame, and Chiwong. This sacred festival honors the legendary Guru Rinpoche Padmasambhava, who is credited with founding Tibetan Buddhism. Mani Rimdu consists of 13 acts that blend religious ceremonies, dances, and drama.
In October or November, during this period, the monasteries come alive with unique masked dances, chants, prayers, and offerings. These rituals are meant to invoke the blessings of the gods, protect the region from harm, and promote the welfare of all sentient beings.
Feasts are held, and families from surrounding villages come to the monasteries to participate in the festivities. Mani Rimdu concludes with a fire puja, in which offerings are made to the gods to ensure peace, happiness, and protection for all. This final ritual represents cleansing the surroundings and getting rid of any negative energies that may have built up during the year.
Chhath Puja( (October-November)
Chhath Puja comes a few days after Tihar. This is a festival dedicated to the Sun god, primarily celebrated in the Terai region. The festival is celebrated to thank the sun god, Surya, for giving life on Earth and to ask for certain wishes to be fulfilled. The rituals take place over three nights and four days, involving holy baths, fasting, and refraining from drinking water. Devotees stand in water and offer prasad (sacred food) and arghya (ritual offerings) to the rising and setting sun. Some also perform a special march towards the riverbanks.
Autumn weather conditions and flight availability
Autumn in Nepal, typically from late September to November, is one of the most favorable times to visit the country. The weather during this period is clear, dry, and mild, which makes it ideal for trekking and sightseeing.
Autumn offers excellent visibility due to the clear skies. This is especially beneficial for trekking and seeing the mountain, as the mountain peaks are often unobstructed by clouds.
The weather in the Kathmandu Valley is: daytime temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), while nighttime temperatures can drop to around 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F).
Likewise, Pokhara is slightly warmer than Kathmandu, with daytime temperatures between 20°C and 26°C (68°F to 79°F), and cooler evenings around 12°C to 18°C (54°F to 64°F).
However, in the mountainous regions, temperatures drop significantly, especially at night. Daytime temperatures can be comfortable, but nights can be quite cold, ranging from -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F) in higher altitudes.
As for the rain, rainfall is minimal during this season, which helps maintain clear trails and good trekking conditions. The monsoon season has ended, so you can expect dry weather with occasional light showers.
Autumn is a popular season for travelers, so flights to and within Nepal are typically in high demand. There are numerous international flights to Nepal from various countries. Due to the high volume of tourists, it's advisable to book international flights well in advance to secure the best rates and preferred schedules.
Similarly, domestic flights to popular destinations like Pokhara and Lukla are in high demand during autumn due to trekking and festival seasons. It’s a good idea to book domestic flights early to avoid last-minute issues, especially if you’re traveling to remote areas where flight availability can be limited.
The generally clear weather conditions in autumn mean fewer weather-related disruptions, but occasional fog or poor visibility in the early mornings can still affect flight schedules, particularly in mountainous regions.
Overall, autumn is an excellent time to visit Nepal, with favorable weather conditions and a range of flight options. Proper planning and early bookings can ensure a smooth travel experience.
Autumn Trekking in Nepal Tips
- Book flights and accommodations in advance. Due to the popularity of autumn travel in Nepal, booking your flights and accommodations well ahead of time is advisable.
- Pack appropriate clothing. Pack layers as temperatures can vary, especially in higher altitudes. Bring waterproof gear in case of occasional showers.
- Don’t forget trekking permits and permits. Obtain the necessary permits before your trip.
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