Nepal in December: Weather, What to Pack and Where to Go

Thinking about Nepal in December? Here's what the weather is usually like in Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan, what to pack, which festivals fall in the month, and where December really shines.

December is one of Nepal's quieter months for visitors, which is a big part of its charm. Skies are often clear, days are mild and sunny in the valleys, and nights turn properly cold. If you don't mind packing a few warm layers, it's a lovely time to travel.

Nepal weather in December

December is dry, with very little rain in the lower regions and plenty of sunny days. Temperatures vary a lot with altitude, so think in zones.

Kathmandu Valley

Expect sunny days with highs typically in the high teens to around 20°C, and chilly nights that can drop to around 4–7°C. Mornings and evenings feel cold, and rooms can be chilly indoors. Snow in Kathmandu itself is very rare.

Pokhara

Similar to Kathmandu, with mild, sunny days and cold nights. December often brings very clear skies, which means excellent views of the Annapurna range from the lakeside and nearby hills.

Chitwan and the Terai

The southern lowlands are warmer by day, but fog is common in the mornings. Nights and early safaris can feel surprisingly cold, so pack a warm layer even for the jungle.

The mountains

At high altitude, temperatures drop far below freezing, and some high passes may be snowy or closed. Lower, shorter treks can still be very rewarding in December with the right gear and a good guide.

What to pack

• Warm layers: a fleece or warm sweater, plus a down or insulated jacket for evenings and early starts.

• A warm hat and gloves for sunrise viewpoints and safaris.

• Thermal base layers if you're trekking or staying in simple guesthouses.

• Sun protection: sunglasses, sun cream and a hat. The winter sun is strong.

• Comfortable walking shoes with good grip.

• A refillable water bottle and a small first-aid kit.

• Lip balm and moisturiser: the air is dry.

• Modest clothing for temples, covering shoulders and knees.

Festivals in December

• Christmas (25 December): celebrated by Nepal's Christian community and widely marked in traveller areas.

• Tamu Lhosar (Wednesday 30 December 2026): the Gurung New Year, with cultural programmes at Tundikhel in Kathmandu and across Gurung communities, including around Pokhara. It's a public holiday.

• Udhauli: the Kirat community's winter festival, celebrated with the Sakela dance on the full moon of the Nepali month of Mangsir. Check the exact date for 2026 locally.

Where December shines

• Kathmandu Valley: crisp, sunny days for heritage squares, stupas and walks, with fewer crowds than in October and November.

• Pokhara: clear mornings with superb Annapurna views and peaceful lakes.

• Chitwan: dry conditions for safaris, once the morning fog lifts.

• Viewpoints: Nagarkot, Sarangkot and the valley rim are at their best on cold, clear mornings.

December travel tips

• Plan for short days. It gets dark early, so start your days early too.

• Expect a year-end rush. Christmas and New Year can bring a short spike in visitors, so book key stays ahead.

• Ask about heating. If your room feels cold, ask for extra blankets.

• Check road and trek conditions before heading into the hills.

Loku's tip: December mornings are often beautifully clear. Set an alarm, grab a warm drink, and head somewhere high for the mountain view.

Plan your winter trip

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