Nepal’s Changing Trekking Seasons: How is climate change affecting the best time to visit the Himalayas?
The world has seen a lot of natural catastrophes in recent years due to climate change. Nepal, a small Himalayan nation that makes minimal contribution to the global emissions that cause climate change, has. . .
The world has seen a lot of natural catastrophes in recent years due to climate change. Nepal, a small Himalayan nation that makes minimal contribution to the global emissions that cause climate change, has been suffering greatly due to climate change. There have been changes in the country’s weather patterns leading to increased risk of landslides, flash floods, and GLOF (glacial lake outburst flooding). Tourism, which contributes a lot to the country’s economy, has been largely affected by the seasonal changes and natural disasters brought about by climate change. What is climate change?Climate change refers to the change in our planet’s average temperature and weather conditions, largely caused by human activities that release greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. The main cause of current climate change is the greenhouse effect, which occurs when human activities add extra greenhouse gases to the atmosphere. Greenhouse gases are emitted by burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and farming activities. The widespread use of coal, oil, and gas for electricity, transport, and industry is the main source of increased carbon dioxide emissions. Our planet's ability to regulate the climate has been largely reduced by the clearing of forests for timber, agriculture, and development. Forests naturally absorb carbon dioxide from the air, but by cutting down trees and burning them, the stored carbon is released, adding to greenhouse emissions. This rapid warming of the planet is leading to widespread disruptions to climatic conditions and human societies. Climate change is causing heatwaves, droughts, floods, and storms. These natural disasters are becoming more frequent and intense across the globe. Warmer temperatures are causing glaciers and polar ice sheets to melt at an accelerated rate, contributing to sea-level rise. Warmer ocean water also expands, further increasing sea levels and posing a flood risk to coastal communities. Small island nations like Indonesia, Tuvalu, the Maldives, the Solomon Islands, etc. are slowly sinking due to rising sea levels. Additionally, climate change is impacting the air quality, water safety, and food systems, increasing the spread of diseases and putting billions of people at risk of food and water insecurity. Nepal’s Changing Trekking Seasons: How is climate change affecting the best time to visit the Himalayas?Most of the greenhouse gas emissions (the main cause of climate change) are a result of the developed world’s industrialization. Nepal, which is still an underdeveloped country, has a very low contribution to global greenhouse emissions. Its greenhouse emissions account for only 0. 027%, which is quite negligible. In spite of having almost zero greenhouse emissions, Nepal has been facing the brunt of the catastrophic events caused by climate change. There have been noticeable changes in the weather patterns and climatic conditions with more heatwaves, extended monsoon seasons, and extremely cold and drier winters. Climate change is also disrupting Nepal's traditional trekking seasons by causing unpredictable weather. There are more extreme weather events and changes to trail conditions. While warmer winters are making lower-altitude treks accessible, the earlier snowmelt has led to landslides and other calamities. More unpredictable monsoon patterns have increased the risks during what were once regarded as peak trekking periods. In 2024, at the start of the trekking season in October, flash floods ripped across 44 districts in Nepal, including Kathmandu in Bagmati district, killing hundreds and displacing thousands. In 2025, massive landslides and avalanches occurred in the Annapurna Region, causing the closure of the trekking route to Manang temporarily. Trekkers trekking in Nepal must now plan more cautiously and be prepared for unexpected conditions. How is climate change affecting the best time to trek in Nepal?Nepal traditionally has four main seasons, each offering a distinct experience. However, climate change has been responsible for significant changes to traditional trekking seasons in Nepal. Autumn (September - November):Usually, autumn is the peak trekking season, known for clear skies and crystal-clear mountain views after the monsoon rains wash away the dust. But the monsoon season now often extends into late September and even October, leading to unexpected storms, cloudy afternoons, slippery trails, and increased flight delays to places like Lukla. While conditions typically improve by mid-October, early autumn trekking is now riskier, with a higher chance of landslides, floods, and obscured mountain views. November is fast emerging as the most reliable month of the autumn season. Spring (March - May):Spring, known for mild weather and blooming wildflowers and rhododendron forests, is the second most popular season. However, with more stable weather earlier in the season and fewer crowds than in October, spring is fast becoming increasingly favorable among trekkers and now rivals autumn as the best time to trek in Nepal. While trekking in spring, one should watch out for pre-monsoon showers and warmer temperatures at the tail end of the season and dry air and increased haze that obscures mountain views at the start of the season. Winter (December - February):Climate change has caused temperatures to rise, bringing warmer, drier winters to lower elevations, thus making some treks more accessible during these months. But the change also means less snow for high-altitude treks. Snowfall patterns are now shifting to later in the season, typically February and March. High passes are often snowbound, and temperatures dip below freezing at the high altitudes. But days can be milder at lower elevations during winter. Short, lower-altitude treks like the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek and the Muldai Viewpoint Trek are ideal during this time. Monsoon (June - August):The monsoon season in Nepal is becoming less predictable, with rains extending into what was once the start of the autumn season. Climate change has increased the risk of natural disasters like landslides and avalanches during this season, which has made many popular routes unsafe. Because of climate change, the monsoon season in Nepal is becoming more intense, and its timing is getting more variable and unpredictable. During this season, there is heavy rainfall, landslides, leeches, and obscured views in most regions. The "rain shadow" areas, like Upper Mustang and Dolpo, are the primary options for trekking during the wet monsoon months. Impact of climate change on trekkers and local communities in NepalClimate change has brought about increased risks for both trekkers and local communities in Nepal. Unpredictable weather during the peak seasons has heightened the risk of landslides, flash floods, and avalanches. With frequent weather disruptions, tourists now face challenges in planning their treks in the peak seasons. The weather windows are getting shorter and more volatile, thus making it a challenge to plan a trek. Climate change has also increased the risk of flight delays due to bad weather. Now one has to trek with a flexible itinerary, taking into account that the itinerary can be altered anytime during the trek. The change in the weather patterns has also led to an increase in health risks. There is a danger of waterborne diseases and heat-related illnesses due to sudden rainfall and heatwaves. In the high elevations, one faces the risk of hypothermia because of extreme cold. For local communities dependent on tourism for their livelihood, climate change has brought about hardships in their everyday life. The local economy is threatened due to changes brought about by climate change. The tourism revenue on which most of the mountain economy is dependent on has been reduced due to a shorter and less predictable trekking season. This has resulted in reduced income for local guides, porters, and village teahouse owners who depend on tourism to make ends meet. The mountain communities are also battling with water scarcity as retreating glaciers are altering water supplies and creating water shortages for local communities and trekkers. The frequent and intense weather also damages the infrastructure on the trekking trails. The water volume in the high mountain lakes is swelling due to the melting glaciers, thus increasing the risk of GLOF (glacial lake outburst flood ). Bridges are washed away, and teahouses and lodges are destroyed during sudden flash floods and landslides. The damages to infrastructure mean rising maintenance costs for the poor villagers. What is GLOF, and why should tourists trekking in Nepal be aware of it?GLOF stands for glacial lake outburst flood. Most of the glacier-fed high-altitude mountain lakes in Nepal are growing in volume due to the melting glaciers brought about by warmer temperatures. Climate change is causing our planet to heat up, causing warmer temperatures in the cold Himalayan high-altitude regions. This is causing the glaciers to melt at an alarming rate. The glacial lakes, which are fed by these glaciers, are slowly expanding, thus increasing the risk of the lakes bursting their dam and flooding the villages that lie below these lakes. As per a report by ICIMOD (International Center for Integrated Mountain Development), forty-two of the country’s two thousand-plus lakes are at high risk of flooding. Tsho Rolpa Lake in the Rolwaling Valley, Lower Barun Lake in the Barun Valley, Imja Tsho, Dig Tsho, and Honku 2 in the Khumbu Region are some of the lakes located along the trekking trails that are at high risk of flooding. Trekkers on a trekking adventure in Nepal should exercise caution while hiking through trails traversing the high mountain lakes. They should stay informed by checking travel advisories and keeping themselves updated on any warnings issued by the local authorities. While trekking across glaciers and mountain lakes, it would be safer to do it with an experienced local guide who has first-hand experience of navigating the trail and can identify potential hazards while trekking. How can trekkers adapt to changes brought about by climate change in the Himalayas?With the trekking seasons becoming unpredictable, it’s high time for the trekking community in Nepal to gear up for the challenges brought about by climate change. Tips for Trekkers:Stay Informed:Trekkers are advised to check recent weather reports and consult with local operators for the most up-to-date information when planning their trips to Nepal. When your travel date approaches, it’s important to rely on real-time weather information from local sources and trekking agencies, rather than depending on past information. With the trekking seasons getting unpredictable, it’s imperative to be updated with the latest weather reports while getting ready to trek in Nepal. Be flexible:Trekkers need to keep extra buffer days in their itineraries and be prepared to change plans based on real-time weather and trail conditions. Travel Insurance:Before embarking on a trek, trekkers should make sure they have travel insurance that covers weather-related calamities and evacuation plans. Explore new options:One can also consider off-season trekking in winter or visiting rain-shadow areas like Upper Mustang and Dolpo during the monsoon season. Trek with local guides:While you can trek without a guide in some areas, it’s safer to have experienced local guides to guide you, especially now when there are constant changes to the weather. Local guides are not only knowledgeable about the region’s culture, but they also have up-to-date knowledge on shifting trail conditions and weather. In 2025, a Chinese trekker who was trekking solo to Annapurna Base Camp got stuck in a landslide, as she had taken a route that was not in use. To prevent such mishaps, it’s safer to trek with a guide. Support sustainable tourism:You can do your bit for the planet by choosing businesses that support sustainable tourism. Choose agencies that follow sustainable practices and practice ‘Leave No Trace’ principles to minimize your environmental footprint. How can Nepal’s tourism industry adapt to challenges posed by climate change?The tourism industry in Nepal contributes significantly to the country’s economy. The tourism sector is also one of the leading employment-generating industries in the country. However, global warming is posing risks to adventure activities like trekking and climbing. In order to adapt to challenges posed by global warming and climate change, the stakeholders of the Nepalese tourism industry can take the following steps. Diversify offerings:Trekking agencies can promote alternative treks and off-season adventures to spread tourist traffic and revenue. New trekking routes on the lower foothills should be introduced and promoted for winter trekking. Build resilient infrastructure:The local communities and government agencies should invest in more resilient trekking trails and bridges that can withstand extreme weather events. The safer the trail, the more tourists will flock to that area. Enhance monitoring systems:The government should implement better weather forecasting and early warning systems for remote mountainous regions. Melting Glaciers in the Nepal HimalayasOne of the worrying outcomes of climate change in Nepal is the rapidly shrinking glaciers. Glaciers add to the beauty of the Himalayan landscape and feed the many rivers and lakes that the country is reliant on for many purposes, including drinking water and irrigation. Most trekking trails wind across these glaciers that flow from the high Himalayan peaks. Having the opportunity to witness these incredible wonders of nature enriches the trekking experience for tourists. However, it’s sad to see the many glaciers that lie at the foot of the Himalayan mountains shrinking. The mountain glaciers in Nepal have provided scientists with valuable data about life in the earlier ages and the impacts of climate change. They have recorded the rapidly shrinking glaciers in Nepal and predict that by 2100, the Everest region could lose between 70% and 99% of its glacier volume. Why should you trek in Nepal before the glaciers shrink completely?There are many glaciers in Nepal that are rapidly receding. These glaciers not only add to the beauty of the landscape but are also important sources of water for the country. Located at the foot of high mountain passes and mighty mountains, these wonders of nature are fast vanishing due to global warming. Scientists have predicted that some of these glaciers will vanish completely in a couple of decades. In order to experience the majesty and beauty of these grand wonders of nature, Third Rock Adventures suggests that trekkers hike to these glaciers and experience their grandeur. Some of these glaciers are,Amphu Lapcha Glacier:The Amphu Lapcha Glacier, located below the Amphu Lapcha Pass in the Khumbu Region, is one of the most stunning glaciers in Nepal. Covered in ice seracs, the crenulated surface of the glacier looks like a frosted cake or a fine work of art. At the top of the glacier lies the Amphu Lapcha Pass, which is one of the most technical mountains passes to cross in the Nepal Himalaya. In order to walk past this glacier, you can book the Mera Peak and Amphu Lapcha Trek. Cho La GlacierThe Chola Glacier, which lies below the Cho La Pass, is one of the fastest receding glaciers in Nepal. At the top of the Cho La Glacier lies the Cho La Pass, one of the Three High Passes in the Everest Region. Located close to the Gokyo Lake, one has to walk past this glacier to cross the Cho La Pass. Khumbu GlacierThe Khumbu Glacier, once covered entirely in frozen ice, is slowly shrinking, leaving debris and glacial moraine behind. The glacier, which can be seen during the Everest Base Camp Trek, is one of the highlights of the trail. Flowing down from the base of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse, the Khumbu Glacier looks magnificent. Trek to Everest Base Camp and savor the dramatic views of Khumbu Ice Fall and Western Cwm before global warming melts the snow cover. The best views of the glacier’s mouth can be enjoyed from Kala Patthar and Everest Base Camp. Yala GlacierThe Yala Glacier can be viewed during the Langtang Valley Trek. Located inside the Langtang National Park, Yala Glacier has been the subject of multiple studies by scientists. It has been predicted that by the year 2040 Yala Glacier will completely vanish. So, before this beautiful glacier disappears, trekkers can head to the Langtang Region and enjoy a last glimpse of this amazing glacier. Ngozumpa GlacierNgozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in the Himalaya, is slowly receding, leaving glacial moraine and dirt in its path. Once appearing like a vast river of snow, this mighty glacier has also become a victim of climate change and global warming. Flowing down from the mighty Cho Oyu (the sixth-highest mountain in the world), the Ngozumpa Glacier lies in the Gokyo Valley in the Khumbu Region. In order to witness this miracle of nature, you can take the Gokyo Valley Trek, the Gokyo Lakes Trek, or the Three High Passes Trek. Barun GlacierThe Barun Glacier, which lies below the Barun Tse and Mount Makalu, is the source of the Barun River. Located inside the Makalu Barun National Park, the Barun Glacier, which feeds the Barun lakes, is melting fast. If you wish to experience the beauty of this glacier, you will have to trek to the Barun Valley. Third Rock Adventures’ Makalu Base Camp Trek will take you to the Barun Valley and let you experience the fading beauty of this amazing glacier. Gangapurna GlacierOne of the attractions of the Annapurna Circuit Trek is the Gangapurna Glacier. This glacier, which is slowly receding, feeds the Gangapurna Lake. The Gangapurna glacier is visible from the trail to Manang. ConclusionNepal's traditional trekking seasons are changing due to climate change, leading to more unpredictable weather and a shift in the reliability of certain months. The classic autumn season is now experiencing prolonged monsoon rains, while early winter is becoming a great option for clear views and stable weather. With the change in seasonal patterns, it has become necessary for trekkers in Nepal to adapt to the changing climate scenario. Gone are the days when one could say for certain that the monsoon would end by the end of summer and autumn would be drier and pleasant. Now one has to check frequently for weather updates before taking to the trail. In order to enjoy a safe trek, Third Rock Adventures recommends trekkers to book a guided trek with a reliable trekking agency. Having an experienced local guide with you while trekking can be a lifesaver, especially during a natural calamity. Despite the slow shift in the peak trekking seasons due to climate change, trekking in Nepal still offers one of the most enriching nature walking experiences. If you haven’t trekked in Nepal, we urge you to experience the natural beauty of the Nepal Himalaya now, before climate change alters the natural landscape of the Himalayas. Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *