Is December a Good Time to Visit Nepal ? Complete December Travel Guide

Traveling to Nepal in December is a smart choice if you want clear weather, peaceful sightseeing, and prices that fit most budgets. December sits at the end of the peak season window (October to December), so you still enjoy dry sunny days without the crowds and higher rates of autumn. The month works well for cultural tours, jungle safaris, village experiences, and short trekking routes. You need to be comfortable with cold mornings and nights, but the weather stays stable and pleasant during daylight hours.

Many travelers ask a simple question before they book Nepal tour packages: Is December a good time to visit Nepal? The answer is yes. You just need to plan based on altitude, weather, and activity level.

Why Visit Nepal in December

December falls at the end of the main travel season. Weather is stable and most trekking routes, national parks and cultural destinations remain fully open. If you want to avoid October and November crowds while still enjoying clear skies, December is a smart choice.

Weather Overview

• Dry days and blue skies
• Very low rainfall
• Cool mornings and nights
• Great air clarity for Himalayan views

Daytime temperatures are comfortable in Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan. High altitude regions can fall below freezing at night.

If you enjoy photography, schedule an Everest Mountain Flight for a clear view of the world’s highest peaks.

Pros of Traveling to Nepal in December

Clear views of the Himalayas

Great visibility makes December popular for Annapurna trekking tours and sunrise views from Poon Hill, Sarangkot or Nagarkot.

Fewer tourists

Cultural sites and trekking routes are peaceful. Many Nepal tour packages are discounted.

Good wildlife conditions

December is ideal for a Chitwan jungle safari tour or Bardia National Park safari with sightings of rhinos, crocodiles, and migratory birds.

Local festivals

Tamu Lhosar celebrations are popular in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

Cons of Traveling in December

Cold nights

Mountain teahouses rarely have central heating. Bring thermal clothing.

Fog in the Terai

Flights to Chitwan or Lumbini can delay. Overland transfers are reliable.

Limited high altitude access

Avoid long pass treks like Thorong La in heavy snow periods.

Best Places to Visit in December

Kathmandu Valley

• Kathmandu sightseeing tours
• UNESCO heritage tour in Nepal

Visit Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Patan Durbar Square and Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Add a day trip to Nagarkot for a sunrise view.

Pokhara

• Pokhara tour package
• Annapurna trekking package

Enjoy Phewa Lake, Sarangkot sunrise and relaxed lakeside evenings.

Chitwan and Bardia

• Chitwan jungle safari tour
• Nepal wildlife tour packages

Dry grasslands offer some of the best wildlife viewing of the year.

Short trekking routes

• Ghorepani Poon Hill trek
• Mardi Himal trek
• Pikey Peak trek
• Langtang Valley trek
• Dhamus/Australian Base Camp
• 1-2 hrs hike around Pokhara & Kathmandu
• Ghandruk Trek

These routes are easy to moderate and remain open throughout December.

Suggested December Itineraries

Kathmandu, Pokhara and Poon Hill Trek (7 to 10 days)

Enjoy heritage in Kathmandu then drive or fly to Pokhara and trek to Poon Hill for sunrise views.

Kathmandu and Chitwan Wildlife Holiday (6 to 8 days)

Combine culture and safari. Visit temples in Kathmandu then explore Chitwan National Park.

Mardi Himal or Pikey Peak Winter Trek (7 to 9 days)

Good for travelers who want mountain views and a short trekking experience in winter.

Practical Travel Tips for December

What to pack

• Thermal layers
• Down jacket
• Wool hat and gloves
• Hiking boots
• Sunscreen

Transport

Overland travel is dependable. Domestic mountain flights are excellent for sightseeing except Lower land like Chitwan, Lumbini.

Health and safety

Stay hydrated, avoid untreated water and acclimatize slowly when trekking.

Plan Your December Visit with Destination Nepal Tours and Travels

If you are planning to visit Nepal in December and want professional guidance, contact our team for custom itineraries. We arrange:

• Private Nepal tour packages
• Guided trekking packages
• Chitwan jungle safari tours
• Kathmandu sightseeing tours
• Bhutan Tour Package from Nepal

We can also create tailored winter trips based on your schedule, budget and interests. Send us your travel dates and we will design a December itinerary that fits your needs.

Contact Destination Nepal Tours and Travels today to request a quote.

Get a Free Consultation

Tell us:

• Number of travelers
• Preferred travel dates
• Type of activities you want
• Trekking or non trekking focus
• How many days time do you have
• What type of hotel you prefer like 3 Star, 4 star etc

We respond with a day by day itinerary including hotels, guides and price.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Is December cold in Nepal?

Days are comfortable but nights get cold, especially in mountain areas. Pack warm clothing.

Can I trek to Everest Base Camp in December?

Yes, it is possible but very cold above 4,000 meters. Many travelers choose lower altitude treks like Poon Hill or Mardi Himal instead.

Are hotels cheaper in December?

Yes, many hotels, transport providers and Nepal trekking packages offer lower prices than peak season.

Is December a good month for wildlife safari?

December is considered one of the best months for wildlife viewing in Chitwan and Bardia due to dry grasslands and clear visibility.

Which tour is best for December travel in Nepal?

Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan combination is the most popular for December.