In February, Nepal welcomes the spring warmth and reflects the beauty of the mountains to its best. Undoubtedly, the mountain vistas are covered in thick layers of snow during February, but if you are looking for a pleasant climate that is not extremely cold, then February is your best bet.
Nepal is a country nestled in Asia and lies along the southern slopes of the Himalayan Mountains. The physiographic areas into which Nepal is divided include the Himalayas, Terai, and Pahad.
Nepal is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places to visit at any time of the year. Still, it offers a visual treat to visitors with mesmerizing landscapes and historical towns, especially in February. It is considered winter in Nepal if you are looking forward to visiting the country in February.
You are on the right page if you are looking forward to visiting Nepal during February, as you can get all the reasons why you should consider planning your trip.
Reasons why you should consider visiting Nepal in February:
The views of the Himalayan range are completely beautiful, even more than in the peak season of autumn. The winter starts giving a wave to the warm spring season as the skies become clear and the days become sunnier in February. It provides the best conditions to tour around the country and enjoy the panoramic news.
If you love trekking, then you can also go for trek and trails. The nights might be cooler as the temperature ranges anywhere from 4 degrees to 22 degrees Celsius, and they might even go to 5 degrees Celsius if you are going to high mountain ranges. So, it would be best if you always considered packing your winter wear or thermal wear as per the weather conditions and always look for hotels which have heater facilities available.
One thing is for sure there is a minimum chance of rainfall and snow because February is a dry month. Different regions have different climatic conditions across the country. For example, the Terai part of the country gets extremely hot by February, and the temperature goes around 30 degrees Celsius.
Check out Popular Places to visit in February:
February is one of the best seasons in Nepal, making it the perfect time to visit for good sightseeing in places like Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan. These three places become the golden trio of the country. Hence the destinations are nestled in the middle hills that give a moderate temperature.
1. Kathmandu
Kathmandu is the capital city of Nepal and one of the biggest cities in Nepal, nestled in the valley. It is home to diverse historical places with great architecture, bronze sculptures, pagoda-style heritage sites, and wooden carvings, besides modern amenities ranging from luxury hotels to nightclubs.
Even if you want to try international cuisine, you can get your hands on some of the best restaurants in Kathmandu. In short, Kathmandu is a city which has something for everyone.
Best Time to Visit: February is ideal for pleasant weather and clear skies.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu
- By Road: Well-connected by buses and taxis from various parts of Nepal.
Activities:
- Durbar Square: Explore the historic palaces, temples, and courtyards.
- Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple): Visit this iconic stupa with panoramic views of the city.
- Pashupatinath Temple: A sacred Hindu temple complex on the banks of the Bagmati River.
- Thamel: Wander through the bustling streets for shopping and dining.
Travel Tips:
- Dress modestly when visiting temples and religious sites.
- Hire a local guide for deeper insights into the historical sites.
- February can be chilly, especially in the mornings and evenings, so pack warm clothes.
2. Chitwan
Chitwan is prominent for its forests and, of course, the mustard cultivation sites. The place is prominent for its palaces, local shopping areas, and, of course, amazing local food.
Chitwan is also home to one of the biggest national parks, which is the Chitwan National Park. You can find the last of the royal Bengal tiger species and one-horned rhino species. If you are travelling with little ones, consider visiting Chitwan.
Best Time to Visit: February is dry and cool, ideal for wildlife viewing.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Bharatpur Airport (20 km from Chitwan)
- By Road: Accessible by bus or taxi from Kathmandu (5-6 hours).
Activities:
- Chitwan National Park: Go on a jungle safari to spot rhinos, tigers, and elephants.
- Elephant Breeding Center: Learn about the conservation efforts for elephants.
- Canoeing: Explore the Rapti River and observe the diverse birdlife and crocodiles.
- Tharu Cultural Program: Enjoy traditional dance and music performances by the Tharu community.
Travel Tips:
- Book safaris and activities in advance through your hotel or tour operator.
- Wear neutral-colored clothing for safaris to blend into the environment.
- Carry insect repellent and sunblock for protection.
Read also: Top Destinations to Explore in Nepal This November
3. Pokhara
Pokhara is prominently known as the Lake City of Nepal. It is known as the gateway of the Annapurna treks. If you love nature, then this is your best bet. Pokhara lies on the foothills of the Annapurna range or the Himalayan peaks, which are located on the shores of the Phewa Lake.
You can get perfect pictures here, all thanks to the great landscape. Pokhara is also the adventure zone of the country, offering great choices of activities from tracking to paragliding. Furthermore, you need to know that it is also the starting point for several treks.
Best Time to Visit: February offers clear views of the Himalayas and mild weather.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Pokhara Airport
- By Road: Accessible by bus or taxi from Kathmandu (6-7 hours).
Activities:
- Phewa Lake: Enjoy boating and stunning views of the Annapurna range.
- Sarangkot: Hike or drive up for sunrise views of the Himalayas.
- World Peace Pagoda: Visit the pagoda for panoramic views of Pokhara and the mountains.
- Adventure Sports: Try paragliding, zip-lining, or mountain biking.
Travel Tips:
- Early mornings are best for clear mountain views.
- Book adventure activities in advance and ensure they are operated by reputable providers.
- Carry warm clothing as temperatures can drop significantly in the evening.
4. Nagarkot
The place is completely loved by tourists providing a great environment for having a relaxed state and relishing the Himalayan views from great hotels or resorts. This place is just thirty-two kilometers away from Kathmandu and you can easily see eight mountain ranges like Annapurna Ganesh Himal Everest and Jugal.
While you are here you can enjoy a beautiful sunrise and sunset provided the weather is favourable with the bright sky. It is one of the best places to visit in Nepal during February and the best of all is that you can easily reach out there.
Best Time to Visit: February for clear skies and panoramic views of the Himalayas.
How to Reach:
- By Road: Accessible by taxi or bus from Kathmandu (1.5-2 hours).
Activities:
- Sunrise and Sunset Views: Visit the viewpoints for spectacular views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest.
- Hiking: Explore the scenic trails around Nagarkot.
- Nagarkot View Tower: Climb the tower for the best panoramic views.
Travel Tips:
- Book a hotel with a view of the Himalayas for the best experience.
- Carry warm clothes as it can be quite cold, especially early in the morning and late in the evening.
- Plan your visit around sunrise or sunset for the most breathtaking views.
5. Kakani
One of the best places to visit in Nepal during February is Kakani. it is at least twenty-three kilometers away from Kathmandu. The place provides peaceful vibes away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
You can enjoy the serene views of scenic mountains and observe the natural beauty and cultural splendour of the local people.
Best Time to Visit: February for clear skies and cool weather.
How to Reach:
- By Road: Accessible by taxi or bus from Kathmandu (1-1.5 hours).
Activities:
- Kakani Viewpoint: Enjoy stunning views of the Himalayan range, including Ganesh Himal and Langtang.
- Hiking and Picnicking: Explore the nearby trails and enjoy a picnic in the pine forests.
- Strawberry Farming: Visit local farms to see the strawberry cultivation.
Travel Tips:
- Ideal for a day trip from Kathmandu.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for hiking.
- Carry snacks and water, as facilities can be limited.
6. Phul Chowki
If you are running short on time and you want to make the most of the trip, then you can go for a one-day hike to this beautiful place. The place is located at a great elevation of 2782 meters in the southern hills of Kathmandu.
Phulchowki Is one of the best destinations to travel and it is just fourteen kilometres away from Godavari. You just must drive from Kathmandu to Godavari, then towards Phulchowki. the Himalayan ranges are worth visiting so do not think twice before heading here on your Nepal trip.
Best Time to Visit: February for clear skies and blooming rhododendrons.
How to Reach:
- By Road: Accessible by taxi or bus from Kathmandu.
Activities:
- Hiking: Trek to the highest hill in the Kathmandu Valley (2,762 meters) for panoramic views.
- Bird Watching: Phulchowki is a hotspot for bird enthusiasts, with many species to observe.
- Botanical Garden: Visit the Godavari Botanical Garden at the base of Phulchowki Hill.
Travel Tips:
- The hike is moderately challenging, so wear appropriate hiking shoes.
- Start early to make the most of your day.
- Carry warm clothing, water, and snacks.
Things to do in Nepal in February:
Low altitude trekking
As the higher parts of the Himalayas are loaded with snow and uncomfortably cold in Nepal, especially in February, only experienced people can trek along the high-altitude ranges. But this time is perfect to start trekking at the low altitudes in the hills near Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan.
The only reason you should go for low-altitude trekking here is that the weather conditions are completely perfect. One of the most prominent trekking trails starts at the tourist hubs of Thamel in Kathmandu and the lakeside in Pokhara.
Adventure activities
recently Nepal has started promoting adventure tourism in some of the top tourist destinations, so you should find various adventure activities. Some of the most prominent activities that you can do during February in Nepal include bungee jumping, hiking, camping, skydiving, paragliding, mountain biking cycling, and a lot more.
Pokhara in Nepal is one of the best adventure destinations where you would find it all, from zip lining to ultra-flight over the mountains.
Events in February in Nepal:
Mahashivratri is one of the biggest festivals in Nepal, which falls during February as per the lunar calendar. Shivratri also means the night of Shiva, which is one of the most auspicious festivals for Hindus. People gather around the famous Pashupatinath temple in Kathmandu.
During this festival, people are up all night, and they pray and change to Lord Shiva. The festival is all about celebrating the birthday of the Hindu mythological God Lord Shiva. This is an incredible spectacular for onlookers and a great chance to observe a religious festival. Read Also: 10 Famous Festivals of Nepal – Religious and Cultural Festivals
In short, travelling to Nepal in February has the amazing advantages of having a minimum crowd and quiet sightseeing experiences. You can also get easy access to hotels and discounts during February, so you should consider visiting Nepal during this season undoubtedly.
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FAQs
1. What is the weather like in Nepal in February?
In February, Nepal experiences cool and dry weather. Temperatures range from 2°C to 20°C, making it a pleasant time for outdoor activities.
2. How is the weather in Kathmandu in February?
Kathmandu in February has mild and pleasant weather, with temperatures ranging from 4°C to 19°C. The skies are generally clear, making it a great time for sightseeing.
3. What is the best time to visit Kathmandu?
The best time to visit Kathmandu is from September to November and from February to April. These months offer pleasant weather and clear skies.
4. What are the best places to visit in Nepal in February?
- Kathmandu: For its historical sites and vibrant culture.
- Pokhara: Known for its lakes and mountain views.
- Chitwan National Park: Ideal for wildlife safaris and jungle activities.
5. What is the temperature in Pokhara in February?
In February, Pokhara experiences temperatures ranging from 7°C to 20°C. The weather is cool and perfect for trekking and sightseeing.
6. What is the altitude of Pokhara, Nepal?
Pokhara is situated at an altitude of approximately 827 meters (2,713 feet) above sea level.
7. Which is the biggest city in Nepal?
Kathmandu is the biggest city in Nepal, serving as the capital and the cultural and economic hub of the country.
8. What activities can I do in Nepal in February?
- Trekking: Popular treks include the Annapurna Circuit and Everest Base Camp.
- Sightseeing: Explore temples, monasteries, and historical sites in Kathmandu.
- Wildlife Safaris: Visit Chitwan National Park for a chance to see rhinos, tigers, and elephants.
9. What are the best places to visit in Kathmandu?
- Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple): A UNESCO World Heritage Site with panoramic views of the city.
- Boudhanath Stupa: One of the largest stupas in the world and a major pilgrimage site.
- Pashupatinath Temple: A sacred Hindu temple complex along the Bagmati River.
- Durbar Square: A historic square filled with palaces, temples, and courtyards.
10. Which is the hottest place in Nepal?
Dhangadhi in the Terai region is one of the hottest places in Nepal, with summer temperatures often exceeding 40°C.
11. How many kilometers is it from Kathmandu to Pokhara?
The distance from Kathmandu to Pokhara is approximately 200 kilometers. The journey by road takes around 6-7 hours.
12. What are some popular trekking routes in Nepal in February?
- Annapurna Circuit: Offers stunning mountain views and diverse landscapes.
- Everest Base Camp Trek: A classic trek to the base of the world’s highest peak.
- Langtang Valley Trek: Known for its beautiful valleys and Tibetan culture.
13. What cultural events or festivals occur in Nepal in February?
- Lhosar: The Tibetan New Year, celebrated with dances, feasts, and cultural performances.
- Maha Shivaratri: A major Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Shiva, observed with prayers and rituals at Pashupatinath Temple.
