Trekking in Nepal in May - 7 Best Trekking Destinations in the Country
If you are familiar with the high-altitude trekking adventures in Nepal, then you may be familiar with the peak season for this exciting outdoor adventure: spring and autumn. Both of these seasons are famous for their stable climatic conditions, pleasant temperatures, natural allurements, and cultural prospects.
However, even among the months of the peak seasons, May is famous for the unique experience it provides. This pre-monsoon month offers the incredible beauty of the transition period in the Himalayan region. So, if you want to take your journey upto the Himalayas to experience the fascinating transition period, here are some of our top recommendations for your trip.
Everest Base Camp Trek
When discussing the Himalayan trekking adventures, we can’t simply miss the most iconic of them all, Everest Base Camp Trek. This incredible Himalayan journey introduces you to the foothills of the towering mystical Himalayan peaks, in particular, Mt. Everest (8,848.86 meters), the tallest mountain on the planet.
If you are visiting Nepal in May and looking for a thrilling trekking adventure in the country, we recommend this mainstream trekking adventure. During your Everest Base Camp Trek in May, you will get the opportunity to explore the incredible natural prospects of the high Himalayan region and cultural embrace. During your trekking in Nepal in May, you will be greeted with the blooming trails covered with dotted rhododendron flowers, fresh climatic conditions, and, of course, the heart-melting Himalayan vistas till the end of the horizon.
Annapurna Circuit Trek
One of the best things about trekking in Nepal in May is that there are fewer crowds, even on the mainstream trekking routes. Annapurna Circuit Trek, which ranks as number 2 among the trekking adventures in the Himalayas, is more enjoyable in May, which is a unique blend of both spring and monsoon seasons.
The temperatures in this month are on the warmer side as the summer closes in, so you will have a comfortable experience traversing across the high elevation points of the Annapurna Circuit Trek, including the high Himalayan pass, Thorung La Pass (5,416 meters). The Annapurna region is known for its magnificent natural diversity and immersive cultural experience.
Thus, doing this trek in May will provide you the opportunity to take advantage of both exploration aspects in this transition month; you will be able to relish the charming natural allurements of the spring season and, at the same time, have a more intimate experience with the fascinating culture and traditions of the region.
Langtang Valley Trek
If you are fond of the unique blend of cultural and wilderness exploration aspects of the Himalayan trekking adventure, then you are definitely going to love this third mainstream trekking region in the country.
The Langtang Valley Trek in May is popular for several reasons, such as incredible panoramic views of the Himalayan peak, enchanting natural terrains, wildlife sightseeing, cultural interactions, and fewer trekking crowds. Also, during this exhilarating Himalayan excursion, you will hike to the vantage points in the Langtang Valley, like Kyajing Ri (4,773 meters) and Tserko Ri (5,033 meters), for the panoramic views of the valleys and Himalayan massifs.
Hiking to such significant altitudes can be a significant challenge; however, the warmer temperatures and stable footing in this month will make the journey to the top thrilling and rewarding.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Annapurna Base Camp Trek is another exciting prospect in the Himalayan region if you are looking for a mild-form excursion that doesn’t include significant elevation points of the Himalayan passes. You will generally trek amidst the fascinating charming trails of the second most popular trekking region in the country, which offers an immense cultural experience.
So, this is an incredible, fascinating alternative for trekking prospects if you are visiting Nepal in May. You will be able to witness the charming allurements of this mainstream region in a different color as the water pool landscapes slowly start making their marks on the landscapes.
One of the most exciting parts of doing this trek in May is that you get the opportunity to enjoy embracing the beauty of the slowly transitioning landscapes and their unique reflections on the two of the most popular base camps in the Annapurna region: Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 meters) and Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,712 meters).
Mardi Himal Trek
If you are looking for a wilderness experience in a region that is easily accessible to urban cities, Mardi Himal Trek is one of the most befitting deals. As the trekking trails are even quieter during the month of May, you will have a more intimate connection with the wilderness and, of course, have the opportunity to embrace the true essence of the Himalayas in solitude.
This route has just recently opened in 2012, as it is located inside the Annapurna region; the easily accessible experience of wilderness has been growing popular among trekking enthusiasts all over the world. Mardi Himal Trek takes you to the base camp of the Mardi Himal (5,587 meters), on the east side of the Annapurna Base Camp, and beneath the Machhapuchhre (6,993 meters).
Manaslu Circuit Trek
Manaslu Circuit Trek is another circumnavigating journey in the Nepali Himalayas that explores the eight-tallest mountain in the world, Mt. Manaslu (8,163 meters). The solitude trail in the month of May really blends well with the off-beaten trails of this exciting Himalayan excursion that introduces you to the complete wilderness of the west-central part of the Himalayas.
Opened to trekkers in 1992, the exhilarating trekking trails of this circuit route in the month of May will introduce you to the peak beauty of the Tsum Valley. You will also get the opportunity to witness the fascinating rich bio-diversity of the Manaslu Conservation Area, that are embracing the peak season of nature with open arms.
Navigating across the high alpine altitudes of the Manaslu region, like Samdo (3,860 meters), Dharamsala (4,480 meters), and Larke La Pass (5,106 meters), the highest point of this trek will also be a lot easier and less challenging during this month.
Kanchenjunga Trek
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We have already discussed several incredible trekking packages that introduce you to the mystical wilderness of the Himalayas. However, if you want to take up a notch in your exciting trekking in Nepal in May, the Kanchenjunga Trek takes the trophy home.
This absolute journey in the wilderness of the eastern Himalayan region of Nepal takes you to the foothills of the towering third-highest snow-clad peak in the world, Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586 meters). Kanchenjunga Trek is, in fact, one of the longest Himalayan trekking adventures that takes you away from the bustling mainstream routes on a solitude where you get to immerse in the true essence of the Himalayas.
Kanchenjunga Trek lasts about 18 to 26 days, and you will spend a significant amount of time at an altitude above 3,500 meters, reaching the highest point at Kanchenjunga North Base Camp (5,065 meters). So, the warmer temperatures of this transiting month will add comfort to your exploration at the alpine altitudes. You will also get the opportunity to explore the peak point of the wilderness during this month, covered with the stunning visuals of the spring.
Nepal in May- 3 Popular Touring Destinations for May
After discussing the ultimate trekking destinations in this beautiful Himalayan country, let's explore the milder forms of exploration that you can enjoy while visiting Nepal in May. There is a diverse range of tours and sports activities that you can choose from for your trip to Nepal in May.
However, if you are looking for comfortable and informative excursions across the popular landmarks of the country, here are the top three Marvel Adventure tours that have received 5-star remarks from our guests.
Kathmandu Chitwan Pokhara Tour
Marvel Adventure’s Kathmandu Chitwan Pokhara Tour is a mixture of unique and exciting touring opportunities that explore three popular tourist landmarks in the country. The favorable weather conditions of May and the pre-monsoon freshness do enhance the overall experience and elevate the enjoyability scale.
If you are visiting Nepal in May, this three-city exploration tour will be one of the most exciting additions to your exploration. You will have the opportunity to explore the rich history, culture, and traditions of the vibrant capital, including the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Then, your journey will turn toward the natural allurements and rich bio-diversity of Chitwan.
During the last part of this touring prospect in May, you will enjoy the warmth of the bustling tourist hub in Nepal, Pokhara. After exploring the popular tourist highlights of this popular tourist destination under pleasant climatic conditions, you will return back to Kathmandu.
Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour
Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour is another incredible touring prospect of this charming nation nestled in the Himalayas, which is also the birthplace of Gautam Buddha. During this pilgrimage tour, you will be able to explore the most significant Buddhist religious sites in the home of Lord Buddha, including his birthplace, Lumbini.
In this spiritual pilgrimage tour in May, you will be able to enjoy a serene trekking experience under favorable weather. Also, most of these significant Buddhist sites are surrounded by lush scenery, so during your spiritual journey in May, you will able to relish the spiritual ambiance of the Buddhist sites surrounded by a picturesque blanket of colorful flowers and lush greenery that represents spring.
This pilgrimage tour is also short in nature and lasts only about four days. First, you will explore all the incredible Buddhist sites located in Kathmandu and head toward the birthplace of Gautam Buddha, Lumbini. Then, after completing your tour, you will return back to Kathmandu. As this spiritual journey is short in nature, it doesn’t take much space in your itinerary plan, and you can even take part in this tour during your leisure period of other adventures that you are doing in Nepal.
Chitwan Wildlife Tour
Slightly different from the regularly touring packages, this exhilarating Chitwan Wildlife Tour introduces you to the unique and rare bio-diversity of this Himalayan country. This exciting touring adventure in the Chitwan National Park, another UNESCO World Heritage Site outside Kathmandu, is a remarkable opportunity that is a mixture of both cultural and natural experiences.
If you are visiting Nepal in May, you simply cannot miss this opportunity to explore the natural phenomena in the Chitwan. May, is the month of the peak season of spring, which means you can expect the exciting jungle safari surrounded by incredible natural allurements. During your visit to this national park in May, you will have the opportunity to explore the incredible flora and fauna of the region that are enjoying the warmth and the nectar of nature’s peak season.
Among the 525 species of bird, 55 species of amphibians and reptiles, and 50 species of mammals, the one-horned Asiatic Rhinoceros and Bengal Tiger are the most popular highlights of this national park. During this 3-day exciting wildlife touring experience, you will also be able to explore and experience the indigenous Tharu community of the region. Your tour will end on a high note with an incredible Tharu Cultural Program.
Is May a Good Time to Visit Nepal?
May is a month of the popular peak season, spring, which is one of the most favored periods for outdoor adventures in Nepal. So, if you are planning to explore this beautiful Himalayan country during this period and wondering whether is May a good time to visit Nepal or not. Rest assured, this month is a perfect period to visit Nepal regardless of the nature of your adventure.
As this is a month of the peak season, the Nepal weather in May is pleasant and comfortable, which accommodates any kind of adventure activities. The climatic conditions of this Himalayan country are warmer even at the higher altitudes in May, and you can expect to weave lifelong memories during your excursion in this month.
Nepal temperature in May usually hovers around 13°C to 31°C in the city areas. Light and comfortable clothes will be enough for your day-to-day itinerary. However, if you are planning a high-altitude adventure, you will need to pack the right layers as you will traverse across different climatic zones.
In overall, Nepal in May is a natural paradise that accommodates you with warm and sunny days like summer. As the temperatures are not that extreme in this pre-monsoon season, exploring the natural allurements of this charming nation and relishing the cultural prospects will be an unforgettable experience.
Trekking in Nepal in May
Trekking or hiking in Nepal in May is undoubtedly one of the most popular adventure activities in this incredible Himalayan country. Thanks to the diverse range of trekking trails, from a moderate scale to challenging and unparalleled natural beauty, this charming cultural and historic country receives thousands of trekkers every year.
If you are thinking about visiting Nepal in May, you should definitely check out the fascinating trekking prospects of this country. As Nepal is famous for the teahouse trekking experience, you will be able to explore the incredible natural beauty of the country and, at the same time have an authentic cultural experience passing through the traditional settlements of the Himalayas.
Nepal temperature in May at the low-altitude trekking trails is pretty much similar to the city area's temperature. However, as the alpine altitudes are generally cold, if you are planning a high-altitude trekking adventure, the night temperatures may drop down to minus degrees.
Festivals of Nepal in May
The official calendar of Nepal is the Hindu calendar system, Bikram Sambat. This calendar system is approximately 56 years and 8 months ahead of the English calendar system AD. One of the fascinating things about the Nepali calendar system, Bikram Sambat, is that the festivals don’t often align in the same month and shift to neighboring months.
The Bikram Sambar calendar system is based on the monthly cycles of the moon phases, which is why festivals often shuffle across the neighboring months. Although the month of May is majorly known for the Buddha Jayanti (Buddha’s Birthday), Nepali New Year, Bisket Jatra, and Chaitra Dashain (Small Dashain) are some other fascinating celebrations that align with this month.
If you are especially partaking in the Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour, the cultural experience will be simply outstanding. You will have the opportunity to witness the incredible birthday celebration of the founder of Buddhism in his home country.
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Practical Tips for Travelers Visiting Nepal in May
- Pack the right layers for the occasion and be prepared for the varying weather conditions
- As this a pre-monsoon month, it will be wise to pack appropriate rain gear for occasional rainfall
- Follow proper trekking precautions if you are doing high-altitude adventure
- Eat a balanced diet and stay hydrated throughout the trek
- Be prepared for a flexible itinerary and to get out of your comfort zone
- Be mindful of the proper health precautions and sanitization
- Respect local culture, customs, and traditions
- Convert enough cash for snacks, tips, and souvenirs during your trip
- Learn a few greeting phrases and enjoy your excursion
