Nepal in March

Nepal in March

March is the start of one of Nepal’s two annual peak tourist seasons, and it’s also when the temperatures have truly warmed up after winter. With the thawing of many high-altitude trekking trails, river levels primed for whitewater rafting, and some exciting cultural festivals, March is a great time to travel to Nepal.

Nepal – a trekkers’ paradise – combines Himalayan views, golden temples, charming villages, and jungle wildlife. It truly is one of the world’s great travel destinations.

March is the start of one of Nepal’s two annual peak tourist seasons and it’s also when the temperatures have truly warmed up after winter – with the thawing of many high-altitude trekking trails, river levels primed for whitewater rafting, and some exciting cultural festivals.

Weather in Nepal in March: Kathmandu experiences warm and sunny days throughout March. You can experience a good amount of sunshine, about 8 to 9 hours a day. The average daytime temperature generally hovers around a pleasant 26°C (79°F) whereas the average minimum temperatures generally drop down to 5°C (41°F).

The best things to do in Nepal in March:

Trekking: Whether you are novice or an experienced trekker Nepal is the land of trekking (and climbing), offering some of the best trekking routes in the world. Period. The 4 days Poonhill trek is one of the better short treks in Nepal; the Everest Base Camp trek is a great trek if having 12 days available; while the Everest Base Camp – 3 Passes trek or the Manaslu trek are some of the best adventure treks in Nepal, taking you on unparalleled trekking routes amidst pristine nature.

If you’re into climbing but lack experience we recommend Island Peak or Mera Peak. Both peaks reach +6,000 meters and can be summited by people with no prior mountaineering experience, yet promising a challenging adventure and memory of a lifetime! For more information about mountain peaks, please check out the top 10 best climbing peaks in Nepal.

Mountain Flights: Trekking the great Himalayas may not be something that everyone is cool with. But that doesn’t mean that you must miss out on meeting the most majestic peaks on the planet. A himalayan panoramic mountain flight tour is the perfect way of enjoying unparalleled eye-level views of those majestic mountain peaks and watch true Himalayan beauty unfold right in front of your eyes, including Mount Everest. Some of the most popular peaks that can be seen through a panoramic flight include Mt. Makalu, Mt. Gosaithan, Mt. Dorje Lhakpa, Mt. Gauri-Shanker, Mt. Pumori and the Grand Daddy of them all – Mount Everest.

Visit Chitwan National Park: Chitwan National Park, the first national park in Nepal, is considered to be another must-see destination in Nepal. More than 500 species of migratory birds call the park their home, as do one-horned rhinos, Bengal tigers and Asian elephants. It covers almost 332 sq. miles and is supposed to be your best chance of seeing animals such as bears, tigers, crocodiles, elephants and rhinos while in Nepal. The most common bird sightings include kingfishers, paradise flycatchers, egrets and brahminy ducks.

Mountain Biking in Kathmandu valley: 

Some of the best places to ride mountain bike in Kathmandu in march are as follows. 

Nagarkot. Home of the Asian Enduro Series, Nagarkot is one of the favorite spots for downhill and enduro.

Shivapuri to Helipad.

Godavari.

Hattiban.

Khokana to Bhainsepati.

Kakani to Helipad.

Paragliding in Nepal in March: 

Where to Glide in Nepal?

Pokhara: Gliding is a weather dependent sports and the flying season in Nepal commences from November through February, the best months being November and December. The takes off point for these flights is Sarangkot (1592m.), which also offers prime views of Fewa lake and mountains at sunrise and sunset (provided the skies are clear) and the landing is by the Fewa lake. No previous experience is required as qualified pilots provide a short briefing before launching.

You will take a 20 min jeep ride from Pokhara to Sarangkot the viewpoint. From here we can see 3 of the highest mountains in the world. Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Manasalu, all over 8000 m. We offer 3 types of tandem flight from here.

Chapakharka: Chapakharka is the most beautiful take off site in Kathmandu which is located at 2100m from sea level. This area is cool with green hills and a wide variety of vegetation and birds. It is a pollution free spot with good wind inflation to fly. It is just 13 km far from Tribhuwan International Airport Kathmandu.

Kot Danda: Kot Danda is another breath taking paragliding spot within the Kathmandu valley which is also 12km from Tribhuwan International Airport Kathmandu. This location is more suitable for those wanting to practice thermal navigation but it does not mean it lacks any of the green vegetation and birds.

Godavari: Godavari is located approximately ten kilometers from both Patan and Kathmandu, and many outdoor enthusiasts flock here to enjoy the breathtaking views and beautiful landscape. It is known as one of the popular hiking and paragliding destinations in Nepal due to its rich wildlife and natural splendor. The garden is an extravaganza of plants, trees, ferns, flowers and orchids. Godavari is also famous for its butterflies, which can be seen gliding peacefully amongst the beauty and splendor of the garden. Godavari is one of the most picturesque and diverse destinations in Nepal and has much to offer visitors from fascinating sights, breathtaking natural beauty and paragliding.

Fulchowki: Fulchowki is the highest green hill in Nepal. It is good for one day trekking with breathtaking height. It has the tallest radio broadcasting tower and it also has a shrine for the goddess Fulchowki which is situated at the peak of the mountain.

Bunjee Jumping: Nepal Bungee Jumping is one of the finest adventure sports in Nepal. You experience a chilling free fall as you jump into a 160 m deep gorge from a suspension bridge over the fast flowing Bhotkosi River. The jump, at 160m, was designed by one of New Zealand’s leading bungee consultants, and is operated by some of the most experienced jump masters in the business. The agency takes safety “very, very seriously”. When you will be in Nepal for your holidays don’t miss Bungee Jumping in Nepal, a life time in the Himalayan nation. You can add this jump package to any of the trekking company in Nepal, as the location is mere 3 hours’ drive from Kathmandu.
Location: Less than 3 hours outside Kathmandu by Ultimate Bungee Shuttle. You will travel the Araniko (Kathmandu/Lhasa) Highway to within 12km of the Tibet Border and the famous Friendship Bridge.

Best time for Bungee Jumping: The best time to go for bungee jumping in Nepal is March-May and September-November as the weather is dry and cool. Avoid the monsoon season no matter if the tour company is offering bungee jumping as the weather changes abruptly. It is not wise to take risk if its cloudy and windy.

Day Hike in Kathmandu in March: Kathmandu experience favorable weather in the month of march. It is the beginning of Spring season and amazing view of Kathmandu valley can be experienced during the day. There are many places where you can hike the valley and here are the top 5 hiking in Kathmandu we would recommend.

Amitabha Monastery Hike: Amitabha Monastery is also called Seto Gumba, which means ‘White Monastery’ in the local language. The breathtaking monastery is made of white stones, giving it a pristine façade. The walls are decked with local murals and frescoes that depict the life of the Buddha and the Buddhist culture. The monument is also home to sacred statues made of medicinal clay. The Stupa looks breathtaking during sunset! The route is much-frequented, so you are bound to find some trusty hiking companions as well.

Starting point: Swayambhu

Ending point: Seto Gumba
Distance: 15 kilometres
Duration: Minimum 3.5 hours
Altitude: 1500m/4920 ft
Highlights:- Stupa and murals
– Sunset and sunrise view
– A panoramic vista of Kathmandu valley
– Clay statues

Kakani Hike: This gorgeous route takes you right through the alpine forests, to Kakani – a small village near Kathmandu. The trail is easy, gravely and has a very slight incline, making it easy to hike. If you want to rest, there are numerous picnic spots and roadside shops to take a quick break. Don’t forget to try the local cuisine at Kakani!

Starting point: Kathmandu
Ending point: Kakani
Distance: 25 kilometres
Duration: Minimum 5 hours
Altitude: 2000 m/6560 ft

Highlights:
– A trek through sub-alpine forests
– Astounding views of Kathmandu valley
– Forests full of oak, pine and rhododendron trees
– Views of Langtang Mountain Range, Shisha Pangma Range, Annapurna Range, Mt Manaslu

Phulchowki Hike: Phulchowki is the highest hill in Kathmandu valley, which means that the views from the top are sure to be astounding! You are bound to find hikers with you as you try to scale this hill. Your hike is punctuated by snow-capped mountains, exotic birds and towering mountains on all sides. Once you reach the village, spare a visit to the Botanic Garden to spy some colourful, eclectic plants. You can also stay in hotels or camp at designated locations.

Starting point: Kathmandu
Ending point: Godawari
Distance: 19 kilometres
Duration: Minimum 3.5 hours
Altitude: 2782 m/9130 ft
Highlights:

Nagarkot Hike: This hiking trail is preferred by enthusiasts because of the scintillating views of the Himalayas at Nagarkot. The Newari village Of Sankhu is the starting point of the trek. Feel free to explore the culture and cuisine before you head out to Nagarkot. You also have the option of camping out at night. What more do you need?!

Starting point: Sankhu
Ending point: Nagarkot
Distance: 28 kilometres
Duration: Minimum 5 hours
Altitude: 2175 m/7135 ft
Highlights:
– A taste of Newari culture at Sankhu
– Sunrise and sunset points
– Nagarkot Tower
– View from Dhaulagiri to Kanchenjunga, Mt Everest, Mt Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Langtang

Sundarijal Hike

This trek is the easier option to explore some wild terrain, simple inclines and beautiful scenery. The path goes through Shivapuri National Park, which makes for some amazing views. If luck favours you, you may spot some animals as well! You can extend your walk to the Chisapani settlement, to get a feel of the local tribal culture.

Starting point: Budhanilkantha

Ending point: Sundarijal

Distance: 22 kilometres

Duration: Minimum 6 hours

Altitude: 100 m/4930 ft

Highlights:

Passing by lakes and waterholes

Shivapuri National Park

Chisapani settlement

Views of all major mountains

Waterfalls

Mount Everest Helicopter Tour: If a 360 degree view around the Himalayas doesn’t sound exciting, a Mount Everest Helicopter Tour certainly will. This tour lets you get up close and personal with some of the most traditional Himalayan cultures and admire majestic peaks such as Mt. Cho Oyu, Mt. Ama Dablam and Mt. Pumori at the same time.

River Rafting in Bhootkoshi River: Bhote Koshi River Rafting is adventurous for whitewater adventure which is a very challenging river for rafting and kayaking. The main branch of Sun Koshi River which flows from Tibet is easily accessed from Kathmandu & Pokhara.

Top Trekking to do in Nepal in March:

Gokyo Valley trek:

Annapurna Circuit trek:

Annapurna Base camp trek:

Ghorepani Poonhill trek:

Langtang Vally trekking:

Tamang Heritage trekking:

Manaslu Circuit trekking:

Festivals in Nepal in March:

Holi: Holi is one of the popular festivals of the color of Nepal falls in March. Also, known as Fagu Purnima hailing the arrival of spring and is celebrated by Hindus across the country. This colorful festival is enjoyed by playing with colors and water. The main goal of this festival is to spread the love to each other.

Ghode Jatra: Ghode Jatra is another festival hosted in March. It is also known as the festival of horses. It is one of the most exciting festivals of Kathmandu. Every year during this festival there is horse parade in Tudikhel. It is held in front of politicians and heads of state.

Chaite Dashain: Chaite Dashain is celebrated for only two days during the end of March. This is second Dashain celebrated to honor goddess Durga. Animal sacrifices are performed during the Chaite Dashain. It holds the similar importance as Bada Dashain. But Bada Dashain is celebrated for in the memory of the victory of Goddess Durga over Mahisasur while Chaite Dashain is celebrated for Rama’s Victory over Ravana.

The Best Places to visit in Nepal in March: Places to visit & Things to do during March in Nepal. A few places to visit in Nepal for an offbeat experience include Lumbini, Janakpur, Bandipur, Bardia, Nagarkot, Poon hills, Pokhara lakeside, Chitwan and Mustang. You can also visit the ancient pagodas, temples, stupas, caves and museums in and around the city.

Kathmandu: Kathmandu, officially the Kathmandu Metropolitan City, is the capital and the most populous city of Nepal with 845,767 inhabitants living in 105,649 households in 2021 and 2.9 million people in its urban agglomeration. It is located in the Kathmandu Valley, a large valley in the high plateaus in central Nepal, at an altitude of 1,400 metres (4,600 feet).

Pokhara: Pokhara is the most beautiful city in Nepal. Most tourist visit pokhara for Trekking and Pokhara’s spellbinding beauty has been the subject of many travel writers. Its pristine air, the spectacular backdrop of the snowy peaks of the Annapurna Range and the serene Phewa, Begnas and Rupa Lakes, makes this destination ‘the Jewel of the Himalaya’.

Janakpur: Janakpur is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus due to its connection with the Hindu epic, the Ramayana. It is believed that Goddess Sita was born here and it is the place of her marriage with Lord Ram. Janakpur possesses more than seventy ponds and it is also known as City of Ponds.

Lumbini: Siddhartha Gautama, the Lord Buddha, was born in 623 B.C. in the famous gardens of Lumbini, which soon became a place of pilgrimage. Among the pilgrims was the Indian emperor Ashoka, who erected one of his commemorative pillars there.

Khumbu: Khumbu (also known as the Everest Region) is a region of northeastern Nepal on the Nepalese side of Mount Everest. It is part of the Solukhumbu District, which in turn is part of Province No. 1.

Patan: Lalitpur, also called Patan, town, central Nepal, in the Kathmandu Valley near the Baghmati River, about 3 miles (5 km) southeast of Kathmandu. According to Nepalese chronicles, Lalitpur was founded by King Varadeva in 299 ce.

 It was built in 1627 during the reign of Siddhi Narsingh Malla. The roof supports are decorated with erotic carvings similar to imagery widespread in Shiva temples in India. The temple is guarded by two stone elephants in the front entrance. On the other side of the temple is the sculpture of a bull, Shiva’s vehicle.

Annapurna Circuit: The Annapurna Circuit is a trek within the mountain ranges of central Nepal. The total length of the route varies between 160–230 km (100-145 mi). This is the most popular trekking routes in Nepal.

Chitwan National Park: Chitwan National Park is famous for the best wildlife-viewing national parks in Asia, where you’ll have an excellent chance of spotting endangered One-horned Rhinos, Royal Bengal Tiger, Deer, Monkeys, Wild Boar and up to 544 species of birds.

Bhaktapur: Popular for its religious, culture and historical heritage, Bhaktapur is also known as Bhadgaun. This city, rich in ancient arts, religious values, fabulous cultural traditions, architectural masterpieces and ancient sculptures, is also known as an open museum. Moreover, the city is also famous as a city of gods.

FAQ:

Is March good time to visit Nepal?

March is the start of one of Nepal’s two annual peak tourist seasons, and it’s also when the temperatures have truly warmed up after winter. With the thawing of many high-altitude trekking trails, river levels primed for whitewater rafting, and some exciting cultural festivals, March is a great time to travel to Nepal.

How is the weather in Nepal in March?

March Weather in Kathmandu Nepal. Daily high temperatures increase by 7°F, from 72°F to 79°F, rarely falling below 66°F or exceeding 84°F. Daily low temperatures increase by 7°F, from 45°F to 51°F, rarely falling below 40°F or exceeding 55°F.

Is March good for trekking in Nepal?

Trekking in Nepal in March is as good as it gets in terms of scenery. This is a great time to perform most of the popular treks in Nepal including the Everest Base Camp Trek, Gokyo Lakes Trek, Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Poon Hill Trek, Manaslu Circuit Trek, Langtang Valley Trek and Upper Mustang Trek among others.

Which month is best for trekking in Nepal?

The months of October and November are peak trekking season in Nepal: temperatures are mild, the weather is relatively stable, and the clear air makes for superb mountain views. The high mountains are still cold and and lower elevations are still warm but the daytime walking temperatures are the most pleasant overall.

The popular trekking trails like Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Base Camp, and Langtang Valley Trek will be full of life.

If you really don’t mind a slight nip in the air and some chilly nights, then March is a wonderful time to explore Nepal. As you’ve to go high to experience cold temperatures.

The major highlights of trekking in Nepal in March is beautiful blooming flower, exciting festivals, and stable weather. This mean during March visitors will get the most out of their visit.

Finally, another best part of trekking in Nepal in March is it’s less busy than April. Thus, you’ll find the power and beauty of the mountains more impressive in the solitude.