If you are thinking to trek in Nepal in January, then we will help you find the best treks which suits you in terms of safety and as well as weather point of view.
Nepal has five season and January falls right in the middle of winter. Most of the people don’t opt for trekking during January in Nepal. The temperature drops down to freezing level (sometimes hitting -25 degree Celsius) along with chilly winds.
Nepal is home to some of world’s highest mountain ranges and many of high passes are filled with snows. So it is very difficult to trek Nepal in winter. Compare to January, trekking in Nepal in March is the best time to trek in the high Himalayan regions.
But with proper preparation, January trekking in Nepal is absolutely possible. You do not need any special trekking skills or experience to accomplish the trek.
In January, the temperature drops below the freezing level but the lower altitude remains sunny and warm. As you cross 3,000m, the nights will be extremely low.
So you can opt for shorter and easier treks in January. Low altitude treks listed here are suitable for trekkers of all age and size. Trekking in lower altitude is absolutely possible with proper equipment and proper clothing.
January trekking in Nepal offers the excellent mountains views especially from a high altitude. It is great time to witness Himalayas as the sky remains clear and there are very few trekkers on the trail.
In popular trekking region like Annapurna and Everest, many tea-houses remain open January. As the trekking trail is less-crowded, you will get the room of your choice, peaceful environment and personalized care.
Trekking in Nepal in January – Weather Details
January is the coldest month of the year in Nepal. The nights in Himalayan region is much colder than the day time. Sometime the day temperature reaches to 20 degree Celsius and drops significantly to -20 degree Celsius in less than 24 hours.
In average, the maximum temperature is 2 degree Celsius and minimum temperature is -6 degree Celsius. Note the weather condition of Himalayan region is highly unpredictable.
In short, the weather in January is clear with little cloud and rain. But the snow shower at high altitude might be frequent.
Festival Celebrated in Nepal in January
Sonam Losar
Sonam Losar is the biggest festival of Tamang communities in the country. It is also celebrated as the new year of Tamang People. You can witness the celebration in traditional manner in different part of the country. You can see people dancing in their traditional attire in different monasteries throughout the country. Family members clear their houses to throw away bad luck and negative forces.
Saraswati Puja
Saraswati Puja indicates the beginning of spring season in Nepal. It is the day of “Goddess of Education – Saraswati”. Many young children start to write their first alphabet from this day. Children visit their schools and seek blessing from the goddess for their bright future. They also worship books, pens and other learning instruments.
Best trekking destination to visit in Nepal in January
Here are the list of best treks in Nepal for January:
Everest Panorama Trekking
Everest Panorama Trekking is of the best winter trekking destination in Nepal. This trek will take you deep in to Khumbu region and let you explore its cultural and natural magnificence. Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Thamserku, Mt. Ama Dablam etc. are some of the highest mountain seen during the trek.
Everest Panorama/View Trek is suitable for those trekkers who wants to explore the Himalayas in short time. The trek starts after a short flight to Lukla and continues towards Namche Bazaar – the heart and soul of Khumbu region. Then you will walk to Khumjung and Tengboche for more experience.
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is one of the best trekking option in Nepal in the month of January. This trek takes you to the foothill of Annapurna to enjoy the magnificent Himalayan views. It is also equally famous for sunrise views.
This short treks starts with a drive from Pokhara to Nayapul. The trail goes through villages and follows the Modi River bank to reach Hile. Next day, you will walk along the Modi Khola and ascend to Ghorepani. Here you will get the close peek to local lifestyle and culture. You can interact with local to get insight on local culture and traditions.
Apart from that, you will get the magnificent views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhare, Hiunchuli and Dhaulagiri.
Moreover, a pre-dawn hike to Poon Hill awards you the tantalizing sunrise view over Himalayan horizon.
This trek is perfect for all trekkers regardless of their age and sex. It takes only few days and there is zero risk of altitude sickness.
Mardi Himal Trek
Mardi Himal Trek is another popular trekking destination in Nepal in January. It is least explored region with raw and untouched beauty.
The magnificent Himalayan peak and alpine scenery are the major highlights of trek. You can witness the wonderful view of Annapurna South, Mt. Machhapuchhre and Mt. Hiunchuli from the Mardi Himal Base Camp. Moreover, you will get to discover the stunning valleys, mixed indigenous culture and diverse floral and faunal species.
Mardi Himal Trek starts after a short drive to Phedi from Pokhara. It continues through the dense forest and climb high up to high camp. The trek offers awe-inspiring view of entire Annapurna range.
Further the trail climbs through rhododendron forest, isolated villages and crosses rivers to reach Mardi Himal Base Camp. You will notice a drastic change in landscape – lush sub-tropical forest gives way to dwarf vegetation.
Since the region is yet to flourish through the impact of mass tourism, you will find simple teahouses offering basic facilities.
