10 Best Autumn Treks in Nepal | Clear Skies, Festivals & Himalayan Trails

Autumn is Nepal's prime trekking and mountaineering season. With stable weather (20-25°C in Kathmandu, 5-10°C cooler in the mountains) and clear skies for viewing Himalayan peaks, the season offers great conditions for outdoor activities. The lush post-monsoon landscapes and vibrant Dashain and Tihar festivals enhance the cultural experience of trekking in Nepal during autumn. 

While popular trails like Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit are busier, numerous off-the-beaten-path options offer serene adventures. Explore Nepal's 10 best places for autumn trekking.

Autumn in Nepal: The Best Season for Trekking

Autumn in Nepal, from mid-September to mid-November, is widely considered the best time for trekking and cultural exploration. The skies are crystal clear after the monsoon, temperatures are comfortable, and the landscape bursts with post-monsoon greenery and golden harvest fields.

In the lowland cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara, daytime temperatures range between 15°C to 25°C, perfect for sightseeing and preparing for treks. In the hills (1,000–3,500m), temperatures hover between 10°C to 20°C during the day, dropping to 5°C to 10°C at night—ideal for trekking without extreme cold.

At higher elevations (3,500–5,500m), trekkers can expect daytime temperatures of 5°C to 15°C, while nights may fall below freezing. However, stable weather conditions make it one of the safest and most scenic times to trek in Nepal’s remote regions.

Autumn also marks the harvest season in rural Nepal. Trekkers pass through terraced fields where farmers harvest rice, maize, and millet, creating a golden patchwork across the hillsides.

Wildlife and Festivals Enhance the Autumn Experience

This season also features spectacular bird migrations. You may spot Himalayan Griffons and Lammergeiers soaring over the Khumbu region, or hear the songs of warblers, thrushes, and see the vibrant Himalayan Monal (Danphe) in Annapurna’s forests.

Culturally, autumn in Nepal is rich and vibrant. Major festivals like Dashain (October) and Tihar (November) fill towns and villages with music, lights, and rituals. In the mountains, celebrations such as Mani Rimdu (Everest region, held in October or November) bring Buddhist monasteries to life with masked dances and chants. Tiji festival in Upper Mustang, although held in May, begins its preparations during autumn.

September Trekking in Nepal

September marks the start of the autumn trekking season. Early in the month, some regions may still experience brief monsoon showers, but by mid-September, the skies clear up, trails dry out, and the views become spectacular. This is a quieter time on popular trails, offering a more peaceful experience.

October Trekking in Nepal

October is the peak trekking month in Nepal. Weather conditions are at their most stable, with clear blue skies, warm days, and cool nights. Trails to Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, and Manaslu Circuit see the most foot traffic this time of year. The festive atmosphere of Dashain adds a cultural bonus to any trek.

November Trekking in Nepal

November continues to offer excellent trekking conditions with even crisper air and fewer crowds. As the season transitions toward winter, mountain views remain crystal clear. Trekkers enjoy the celebrations of Tihar, as well as calm, dry trails across Nepal’s remote and popular trekking routes.

Popular Autumn Treks

Everest Base Camp Trek in Autumn

Autumn is considered the ideal time for trekking to Everest Base Camp, providing unparalleled views of Mount Everest and the Himalayan range. The period from September to November offers clear blue skies and consistent weather, ensuring an optimal trekking experience. The lively atmosphere in tea houses and lodges during the festivals adds a unique cultural charm to this adventure.

Trek to Everest Base Camp, typically lasting from 12 to 14 days, is categorized as moderate to challenging. The trail passes through Namche Bazaar, known as the gateway to Everest, and the Tengboche Monastery. A particularly rewarding moment is witnessing the sunrise from Kala Patthar (5,364m), where Everest is illuminated in the morning sunlight. Throughout the journey, you can immerse yourself in Sherpa culture, and explore the diverse landscapes of

Sagarmatha National Park.

As autumn also marks the mountaineering season, trekkers may have the opportunity to meet and interact with climbers attempting to summit Mount Everest.

Annapurna Circuit Trek

The Annapurna Circuit trek is another trek best done during the autumn season. It generally takes 14 to 18 days and offers spectacular mountain scenery and perfect trekking weather.

The during autumn offers excellent visibility of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. This is also the safest time to cross the trek's highest point, the Thorong La Pass at 5,416 meters, when the weather is stable.

Autumn brings seasonal highlights along the trail. In Manang, you'll see apple orchards, the famous Muktinath Temple and colorful prayer flags against the mountain backdrop.

This trek is special due to the constantly changing landscapes from tropical forest to dry, desert-like terrain resembling Tibet. The comfortable tea houses along the route are perfect for resting after each day's hike, serving hot meals and offering warm hospitality.

The Annapurna Circuit in autumn offers a physical challenge, cultural experiences, and stunning mountain views. Crossing the high pass and watching the sunrise over snow-capped peaks create lasting memories.

Langtang Valley Trek

The Langtang Valley Trek is a perfect short autumn getaway, offering breathtaking Himalayan scenery just a short drive from Kathmandu. Langtang Trek can be done in 8-10 day journey and is ideal for travelers with limited holiday time.

During autumn (September-November), the weather conditions are ideal, with comfortable daytime temperatures around 15-20°C and crisp, clear skies that reveal magnificent views of Langtang Lirung (7,227m) and other surrounding mountains.

What makes this autumn trek special is its wonderful combination of natural beauty and cultural experiences. You'll walk through traditional Tamang and Sherpa villages where Tibetan Buddhist culture remains strong, visit charming yak cheese factories established with Swiss assistance, and stay in cozy mountain lodges. 

The trek's moderate difficulty level makes it accessible to most active travelers, some moderate uphill sections, and comfortable altitudes that don't exceed 3,870 meters. For the great view of the Langtang range you can also hike to Tserko Ri (5000m). 

Manaslu Circuit Trek

The Manaslu Circuit trek is a 14-day adventure around the world's eighth-highest mountain (8,163m). That is the ideal during autumn (September-November) with clear skies and comfortable temperatures. Fewer trekkers visit this restricted area compared to the more popular trails. The trek features diverse landscapes from forests to alpine meadows and the challenging 5,106m Larkya La Pass.

Autumn enhances the trek with vibrant nature against clear skies. Special permits and a licensed guide are required for trekking the Manaslu Circuit. Booking in advance is recommended due to peak demand in autumn.

Upper Mustang Trek

The Upper Mustang Trek in autumn is the best time to visit the region. From September to November, trekking Upper Mustang is ideal with warm sunny days (10-20°C), cool comfortable nights, and completely dry trails since the region lies in the Himalayan rain shadow.

The upper Mustang trek is a 12-14 day journey that passes through an arid Himalayan desert landscape similar to Tibet. Autumn visitors are treated to breathtaking views of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna ranges. While exploring Mustang's, one must visit the medieval walled city of Lo Manthang, ancient monasteries, royal palace and sky caves. 

The trek is moderately difficult with a max altitude of 3,840m.As a restricted area it requires special permits. Upper Mustang maintains its authentic Tibetan Buddhist culture and pristine landscapes, making autumn the perfect time to experience this "forbidden kingdom.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

The Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek is a journey best done during the autumn season (September-November). 

ABC trek can be completed from 5-12 day with moderate level of difficulty. This trek takes you close to big mountains like Annapurna I (8,091m) and Machhapuchhre (6,993m). Autumn is perfect because the weather is nice with average temperature of 10-20°C, the skies are clear, and the trails are dry after the monsoon season.

This is a moderate trek - not too hard, not too easy. The highest point is 4,130m at ABC. The trails are good with stone steps through pretty forests. You'll stay in hotel that provide warm beds and hot food.

Gokyo Lakes Trek

The Gokyo Lakes Trek during Autumn season is a popular (September to November) adventure, offering turquoise glacial lakes and clear Himalayan giants. 

Gokyo trek typically takes 12-14 days to complete and takes you through the less-crowded Khumbu region, along Ngozumpa Glacier, the longest glacier in the Himalayas. From the highest altitude of the trek Gokyo Ri (5,357m) you can enjoy a panoramic view that rivals Everest Base Camp.

Autumn is best for Gokyo Lakes Trek. The trekking weather is perfect with warm days (10-15°C) and cold nights, and unobstructed mountain views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. This trek also provides a peaceful alternative to the busier Everest Base Camp routes with fewer crowds.

Mardi Himal Trek

The Mardi Himal Trek is a perfect 7-9 day autumn (September-November) adventure, offering peaceful trails and breathtaking close-up views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain). 

Mardi Himal Trek is an easy-moderate trek that takes you through vibrant rhododendron forests that frame the snow-capped Himalayas, providing a less crowded alternative to busier routes like Annapurna Base Camp. Autumn brings ideal trekking conditions, crisp mountain air, clear skies, and comfortable temperatures (10-18°C), making it the best time to enjoy panoramic vistas from Mardi Himal Base Camp (4,500m). Highlights include intimate encounters with local Gurung culture, pristine wilderness, and uninterrupted views of the Annapurna range glowing in golden autumn light.

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

The Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is Nepal's perfect short autumn trek (September-November), offering beautiful Himalayan views in just 5-7 days. Ghorepani Poon Hill is an easy-level trek ideal for beginners, families, and those with limited time, featuring the famous Poon Hill at (3,210m) sunrise over Dhaulagiri (8,167m) and Annapurna peaks, especially in autumn's clear weather.

Autumn brings perfect conditions with comfortable daytime temperatures (15-20°C) and mornings ideal for sunrise viewing. The post-monsoon skies provide an unobstructed mountain view, while the trails are dry and stable underfoot. You'll walk through colorful Gurung villages and rhododendron forests that make autumn hiking particularly scenic.

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek (20-24 days) stands as Nepal's ultimate trekking challenge, offering the best autumn trekking (September-November) to the base of the world's third-highest mountain (8,586m). This challenging trek through Nepal's far-eastern region becomes rewarding in autumn when dry weather reveals views of Kanchenjunga's twin summits and surrounding glaciers. 

The post-monsoon period has stable temperatures (5-15°C at higher camps), dry trails through forests, and clear visibility across the Himalayas. Trekkers experience complete immersion in untouched nature, passing through traditional Limbu villages, crossing high mountain passes, and finally reaching the spectacular Pang Pema Base Camp (5,143m) where the massive Kanchenjunga glacier dominates the horizon. 

While demanding excellent fitness and proper acclimatization, this autumn adventure rewards with absolute solitude, cultural authenticity, and some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in Nepal.