2026 Trekking Season in Nepal Begins After the Holi Festival: Complete Guide for Trekkers
Nepal is one of the world’s most celebrated trekking destinations, attracting adventurers, nature lovers, and cultural explorers from every corner of the globe. With the majestic Himalayas, ancient trails, diverse landscapes, and warm hospitality, trekking in Nepal is more than just a journey—it is a life-changing experience.
For travelers planning their Himalayan adventure, 2026 trekking season officially begins in early March, right after the Holi festival. This period marks the start of spring trekking season, widely considered one of the best times of the year to trek in Nepal.
This comprehensive guide explains why trekking starts after Holi, what trekkers can expect in March 2026 and beyond, the best trekking routes, weather conditions, peak seasons, preparation tips, and why 2026 is an excellent year to visit Nepal.
Understanding the Trekking Seasons in Nepal
Nepal has four main seasons:
- Winter (December – February)
- Spring (March – May)
- Monsoon / Summer (June – August)
- Autumn (September – November)
Among these, spring and autumn are the prime trekking seasons. The 2026 trekking season begins in March, just after Holi, as winter gradually fades and the mountains become more accessible.
Holi Festival and the Start of Nepal Trekking Season
Holi, also known as the Festival of Colors, is one of Nepal’s most joyful and vibrant festivals. It usually falls in late February or early March, depending on the lunar calendar.
- Celebrated with colors, music, and water
- Marks the victory of good over evil
- Welcomes the arrival of spring
- Celebrated for one day in the hills (Kathmandu and mountain regions)
- Celebrated the next day in the Terai region
Why Trekking Begins After Holi
The trekking season typically begins immediately after Holi for several reasons:
- Winter cold starts to ease
- Snow at higher passes begins to melt
- Day temperatures become comfortable
- Trails reopen after winter closures
- Lodges and teahouses resume full services
- Clear skies return after winter haze
For 2026, Holi is expected to fall in early March, meaning trekking will begin from the second week of March onward.
Spring Season in Nepal (March – May 2026)
Spring is the season of renewal, color, and life in Nepal. It is a magical time to be in the Himalayas.
Weather Conditions in Spring
- Daytime temperatures: 10°C – 20°C (lower regions)
- Higher altitude temperatures: -5°C to 10°C
- Clear mornings and evenings
- Stable weather
- Occasional light clouds in the afternoon
The weather in March 2026 is especially favorable for trekking, as it is not too cold like winter and not yet affected by monsoon rains.
Why March 2026 Is Ideal for Trekking
March is often underestimated compared to April and October, but it offers unique advantages:
Fewer Crowds
- Trails are quieter than peak April and October
- Better lodge availability
- More peaceful trekking experience
Fresh Landscapes
- Snow-capped mountains remain visible
- Lower valleys start turning green
- Clear rivers and waterfalls
Comfortable Temperatures
- Cool mornings, warm afternoons
- Ideal for long walking days
Cultural Experience
- Local villages come alive after winter
- Farmers begin spring activities
- Post-Holi festive atmosphere
Peak Trekking Seasons in Nepal 2026
Spring Peak Season 2026
March – May 2026
Best for:
- Everest Base Camp Trek
- Annapurna Circuit Trek
- Annapurna Base Camp Trek
- Langtang Valley Trek
- Manaslu Circuit Trek
- Upper Mustang Trek
- Pikey Peak Trek
- Mardi Himal Trek
- Tilicho Lake Trek
Autumn Peak Season 2026
September – November 2026
Best for:
- Clear mountain views
- Stable weather
- Major festivals like Dashain and Tihar
Best Trekking Routes Starting from March 2026
Everest Region Treks
Everest Base Camp Trek
- Starts becoming busy from mid-March
- Clear views of Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam
- Ideal conditions in April and May
Gokyo Lakes Trek
- Stunning turquoise lakes
- Less crowded than EBC
- Excellent in spring
Pikey Peak Trek
- Lower altitude
- Best Everest views at sunrise
- Perfect for early March
Annapurna Region Treks
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
- Rhododendron forests bloom in spring
- Moderate difficulty
- Ideal from March to May
Annapurna Circuit Trek
- High passes open from late March
- Thorong La conditions improve
- One of the world’s classic treks
- Accessible from late March
- Spectacular alpine scenery
- Short, scenic, and less crowded
- Excellent spring trekking route
Langtang Region Treks
Langtang Valley Trek
- Close to Kathmandu
- Ideal for March trekkers
- Cultural Tamang villages
Gosaikunda Lake Trek
- Best from late March onward
- Sacred alpine lakes
Restricted and Remote Area Treks
- Best from late March
- Fewer trekkers
- Requires special permits and guide
Upper Mustang Trek
- Dry rain-shadow region
- Accessible from March
- Tibetan culture and landscapes
Rhododendron Bloom: A Spring Highlight
One of the biggest attractions of spring trekking in Nepal is the rhododendron bloom.
- National flower of Nepal
- Forests turn red, pink, and white
- Best seen from late March to April
- Common in Annapurna, Langtang, and Everest lower regions
This natural spectacle makes spring 2026 trekking visually unforgettable.
Permits and Regulations for 2026 Trekking
As of 2026, Nepal trekking regulations require:
- Licensed trekking guide for most regions
- TIMS Card (for permitted areas)
- National Park or Conservation Area Permits
- Special permits for restricted regions
Hiring a guide ensures:
- Safety
- Local knowledge
- Navigation assistance
- Cultural insights
- Emergency support
Accommodation and Facilities in Spring 2026
- Teahouses fully open after winter
- Better food options
- Heated dining rooms at higher altitude
- Hot showers available in many places
- Improved Wi-Fi and charging facilities
March is a great month before lodges become crowded in April.
Physical Preparation for March 2026 Trekking
Fitness Tips
- Start training 6–8 weeks before
- Focus on cardio (walking, hiking, cycling)
- Practice stair climbing
- Build leg strength and endurance
Mental Preparation
- Be ready for altitude changes
- Walk at a steady pace
- Allow acclimatization days
Packing List for Spring Trekking
Clothing
- Lightweight down jacket
- Fleece layers
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Thermal base layers
- Trekking pants
- Warm hat and gloves
Gear
- Good trekking boots
- Daypack
- Sleeping bag (–10°C recommended)
- Trekking poles
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
Health & Safety
- First aid kit
- Altitude sickness medication
- Personal medicines
Why Choose 2026 for Trekking in Nepal?
- Improved trekking infrastructure
- Better trail management
- Experienced guides and support staff
- Increased focus on safety
- Sustainable tourism practices
- Strong post-pandemic tourism services
Nepal is fully ready to welcome trekkers in 2026 with professionalism and warmth.
Responsible Trekking in 2026
- Respect local culture
- Minimize plastic use
- Support local lodges
- Follow Leave No Trace principles
- Hire local guides and porters
Responsible trekking ensures Nepal remains beautiful for future generations.
Conclusion: March 2026 Is the Perfect Time to Start Your Trek
The 2026 trekking season in Nepal begins right after the Holi festival in March, opening the door to one of the most beautiful times of the year in the Himalayas. Spring brings clear skies, blooming forests, comfortable temperatures, and renewed energy across the mountains.
Whether you dream of standing at Everest Base Camp, walking through the Annapurna Circuit, or exploring quieter trails like Pikey Peak or Langtang Valley, March to May 2026 offers ideal trekking conditions.
Planning early, choosing the right route, and trekking with experienced local guides will ensure a safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable Himalayan journey.
Nepal awaits you in spring 2026 — colorful, majestic, and timeless.
