In this article, we are going to discuss Trekking in Nepal in February.
Nepal is a country in itself, rich in culture and ethnicity. Certainly, Nepal is small yet varies drastically in altitude. This is a major reason that displays varying weather and temperature.
It is a mountainous country and the temperature does vary immensely as you tend to ascend or descend.
This might not be a problem for the locals but it will be an issue for travelers. You will have to prepare for yourself.
However, short treks do compensate to make your trips memorable. And there are a lot of shorter treks that you can enjoy in February.
Weather Conditions
It gradually starts to get a bit warm in February. The temperature during the day is a lot warmer compared to the freezing nights. The temperature dips down to 0 degrees at night and stays around 10 degrees on average, during the daytime.
And if you are planning to trek, the weather may drop further, depending on the ascend.
October- November is the best season to trek in Nepal. But you are looking to make the best of your holiday/leave then, you need not worry. Trekking in Nepal in February can be arranged too.
Duration of the Trek
As mentioned, February is definitely not a suitable season to plan a trek to Nepal. But if you are planning on making the best of it then you will have to opt for a shorter trek. Because it is still cold at higher altitudes, it would be safe to choose shorter trips.
Best Trekking Trails in Nepal in February
During the month of February, it is still cold in Nepal. The treks are snowy and tough, but the experience is worth all the difficulties that you may go through. However, shorter treks are possible too and these scenic and awe-striking in their own kind.
Everest Panorama Trekking
The Everest Panorama Trek is a short 9-day trek. As the name hints, this trek is for the people who would like to enjoy Everest, but without having to go through a lot of hardships. Indeed, a treat for the eye.
If you are unable to commit to the Everest Base Camp Trek but still want to witness the majestic and awe-striking beauty of the glorious Everest, this trek is definitely for you.
Walking toward you will walk through a beautiful pine forest, the Dudh Koshi, and several local Sherpa settlements. At Namche, you can also choose to visit the Sagarmatha National Park.
After you start your trek to Tengboche, you will start to see the beautiful mountains, Lhotse, Mt. Everest, Ama Dablam, Nuptse, and Thamserku. These will keep you mesmerized.
Indeed, this a short trek, yet it is something that will give you a general idea of what you are getting closer to in case you wish to reach the Everest Base Camp.
Highlight of the Trek
- View of several Chortens and the Sagarmatha National Park with various species of wild birds and animals
- View of the mighty Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Thamserku, Ama Dablam, and other several snow-capped Himalayan peaks.
- Tengboche monastery (3,890m) is a Buddhist monastery at the highest altitude in the world.
- View of the Syangboche, the airport at the highest altitude in the world
- Amadablam Base Camp Sagarmatha National Park is a famous dwelling place for different species of wild animals and birds.
Planning a trip to Nepal?
Annapurna Sunrise Trekking
The Annapurna Mountain is considered to be one of the most beautiful mountains in Nepal. Since it is named after a god of prosperity, people consider it to be a lucky mountain too.
If you are a fan of sunrises, you will basically enjoy most of the treks here in Nepal and elsewhere around the Globe. Annapurna Sunrise Trekking is one that is not to be missed. This Trek is a 7-day trek.
From Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani you will start to ascend. Passing through stone steps, lush meadows, and rhododendron forest. This trek will take you to an altitude of 3210m. Here a typical Magar village offers local shops and warm hospitality.
The next day, a 45-minute hike from Ghorepani to Poon Hill is a dose of complete tranquility. It is the actual essence of this entire trek.
Golden gleaming snow-capped mountains and majestic views atop Poon Hill will keep you mesmerized.
Highlight of the Trek
- Short and easy trek that offers a breathtaking view
- Gurung village and rich culture as well as modern facilities
- View of the amazing flora and fauna
- Beautiful view of the Annapurna range, Himchuli, Machhapuchhre mountains.
- Hot spring at Jhinu Danda
- Boating , music, and relaxation at Pokhara
Jomsom Muktinath Trekking in Nepal in February
Jomsom Muktinath Trekking in Nepal in February is a 9-day trek and is suitable for first-time trekkers too. And if you are looking to make the best use of your trip with a trek, Jomsom Muktinath Trekking is a great option to consider.
It is at a maximum elevation of 3850 meters above sea level.
Muktinath is a holy temple of both the Hindu and the Buddhist. It is a temple of Avalokitesvara ( by the Buddhist) and Bishnu (by the Hindus). Once you are at Muktinath, the sacred 108 waterspouts around the temple is a spot that will definitely draw all your attention. Obviously, you can expect the water to be frozen.
If you are late trekking in Nepal in February, it would be less icy to bathe in the sacred spouts. Well, you might be tempted to take a quick chilling shower under the 108 holy spouts. So, you might as well be prepared to take the holy bath.
Highlight of the Trek
- Jwakamai Temple and several gompas.
- Apple orchards and Apple Brandy at Marpha, something to relish on to beat the chilling cold.
- Panoramic view of Nilgiri, Dhaulagiri, Tukuche, and Annapurna
- The Ghasa- Tatopani trail follows the river there along a narrow gorge and across a famous waterfall called Ruptse Chhahara
- Hot spring at Tatopani
- Local settlement and local culture
Trekking in Nepal in February – Tips
Well, it is always better to be prepared than to lament on later. When you are planning for a trek, especially during the off-season you will have to be a bit more careful than usual. Trekking is a fun experience and an amazing way to be in touch with nature.
Having said that, your trips can be completely ruined if you are not spontaneous and careful at the same time.
- Carrying heavy luggage is the beginning of a loathsome journey. If you tend to walk with all that burden, it will exhaust you. Always pack wisely and carry trekking gears.
- Yes, trekking gears are a bit expensive but these do give you a great return. From shedding the load, providing comfort, and being extremely handy, these help you in every possible way.
- It is the best and the most recommended method to trek; ‘with an agency or a licensed guide’. From bargains, better routes, great tea houses, better food, you name it. These are the basic perks.
- Any package you choose or any season you plan, it will be good if you have spare days. As mentioned earlier, weather changes may affect flight schedules.
Trekking in Nepal in February – Equipment Required
Here is a list of the equipment that you will need. For a comfortable hike, it is not advised to carry a load higher than 7 kilograms. You will need to choose your gear wisely.
A lot of this equipment is available for rent in Pokhara and you can buy almost everything in Kathmandu too.
General
- Day pack
- Duffel or Rucksack Bag
- Warm insulating jacket
- Sleeping bag
Head
- UV Sunglasses
- Sun hat or scarf
- Warm headgear or a hat
Foot and Handwear
- Thin, lightweight inner socks
- Thick, warm hiking socks
- Hiking boots with spare laces
- Camp shoes (sneakers/sandals)
- Gaiters for hiking in winter
- Lightweight gloves
- Heavyweight gloves or mittens
- Waterproof shell outer
Lower Body
- Under Garments
- Lightweight cotton pants
- Light thermal bottoms
- Fleece or wool pants
- Waterproof shell pants (preferably breathable fabric)
Upper Body
- T-shirts
- Light and expedition weight thermal tops
- Fleece Wind-Stopper Jacket
- Waterproof shell Jacket
- Fleece jacket or pullover
Accessories
- Sleeping bag rated to zero degrees
- Headlamp
- Basic First Aid Kit
- Large plastic bags inside trekking bag, to keep your things dry
- Day pack
- Trekking poles
- Water bottles
Toiletries and Personal Hygiene
- Quick-drying towel
- Moisturizer
- Wet wipes
- Tissue / Toilet roll
- Anti-bacterial hands wash
- Toothbrush and Toothpaste
- Multipurpose soap/ handwash
- Feminine Hygiene products
Extra / Luxuries(Optional)
- Camera
- Trail Map/ Guide Book
- Binoculars
- Pillowcase
(Note: the List is given for reference purpose only)
Trekking in Nepal in February – Conclusion
Trekking in Nepal in February is definitely challenging because of the weather. If you are someone who is not comfortable with lower temperatures, it is best to choose the peak season, i.e spring or autumn. But if you love winter, Trekking in Nepal in February is rather peaceful and calming.
In peak seasons you will be able to enjoy faster service at teahouses and the local market.
However, this time of the year you will be able to enjoy sunny days because there is hardly any rain this season. And with the right gear, trekking in Nepal in February is definitely possible.
Note:
It doesn’t matter if it is the best trekking season. The weather up in the Himalayas can be unpredictable. It is best to be prepared and not be affected by such changes. Flight delays and flight schedules may vary. Just to be on the safe side, be a bit flexible with your dates.
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