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langtang gosainkunda trekking in nepal

Trekking in Nepal in August

Trekking in Nepal is possible in every season because it offers a unique landscape, geography, and climate. August falls in the middle of the monsoon season in Nepal, and it gets hot, wet and humid almost in every part of the country. Sometimes trekkers can miss the mountain views as it may be covered in clouds. The temperature gets hot, and rains almost daily in this season. 

There are some of the popular trekking destinations which come under in rain shadow areas such as; Annapurna Circuit, Everest Base Camp, Upper Mustang, Upper Dolpo and many more. All these destinations are situated in the higher altitude areas, which are not affected by monsoons as much as the rest of the country. Trekkers can enjoy even in the short trek and can escape from the heavy rainfall as well. There are other short trek destinations around Kathmandu and Pokhara cities like Shivapuri Chisapani Hill, Nagarkot Changunarayan hiking, Dhampus, and Ghandruk.  

Trekkers need to prepare some basic elements before planning for trekking in August month as they have to tackle the monsoon season. Besides the difficulty of heavy rainfall, trekkers can experience the most relaxing and trouble-free trekking during this season. 

Weather in Nepal in August  

The Climate in August is mostly hot, humid and wet all around the country. In the month of August, monsoon season is at its midway point. The environment is likely to be fresh and clean due to the frequent rainfall. According to the official data, the expected average temperature will be around 30 degrees Celcius during the day and about 20 degrees Celcius during the night time. 

Similarly, the average rainfall receives in the month of August is around 13 inches. While the rain shadow areas or Himalayan areas receive very less rainfall than other parts of the country.  

LocationElevation (m)Minimum temperature in August (°C)Maximum temperature in August (°C)Precipitation August (mm)
Kathmandu1,40019.727.2334
Pokhara90021.529807
Nepalgunj 15825.232.6308
Biratnagar 8025.632.2367

Festivals in August

During the month of August, many major festivals fall. It is one of the best months to visit Nepal due to its beautiful season and festivals such as Gai Jatra, Teej, Krishna Janmashtami, and Janai Purnima.  

Janai Purnima 

It is a festival that is celebrated by Hindus by tying a sacred thread on their wrists. This festival is especially popular among the Brahmin and Chettri community. While the Newar community celebrates it as Kwati Punhi and Terai people celebrate it as a Raksha Bandhan. On this day there is a big fair organized at Gosaikunda, Lalitpur, Kumbeshwar, and Halesi.

Shree Krishna Janmashtami

This festival is marked as the birthday of Lord Shree Krishna. This festival is also known as Krishna Jayanti or Janmashtami. A large number of Hindu devotees gather at Krishna Mandir in Patan Durbar Square to celebrate this festival.   

Gaijatra

During the Gaijatra festival, children dressed as cows and march on the street in the memory of the dead family members during the year. The family members of the deceased person also distribute food to others. It is mostly celebrated in the Kathmandu valley by the Newar community. 

Best Destinations for Trekking in Nepal in August 

1. Langtang Valley Trek

langtang valley trekking

Langtang Valley is situated in the north of Kathmandu. The valley is among Nepal’s top trekking destinations where every year it attracts many tourists from around the world. The trail ascends the Langtang valley from 1470m at Syabrubesi to 3870m at Kyanjin Gompa.  

The valley is blessed with beautiful geographical features with amazing Tibetan lifestyle and culture. It is the perfect package for the outstanding short trek that packs a diverse punch into a small amount of time. 

Langtang_Valley_Treks
$850

Langtang Valley Trek is a relatively short yet classic trekking route in the heart of the Himalayas. Located northwards of Kathmandu valley, this trek is the most accessible and one of the best short treks in Nepal. The off-the-beaten-track of Langtang puts together a rhododendron forest, traditional teahouses, diverse landscapes, cascading waterfalls, high meadows, and breathtaking mountains. Langtang Valley Trek is an excellent choice for hikers who do not have enough time but are willing to experience the ultimate experience of the Himalayas. On this trek, you’ll get to enjoy the…

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The trails offer a beautiful view on the way like; wild Langtang river, lush forest, high alpine pastures, bamboo grooves, glaciers, and snow-covered peaks. Trekkers can have views of mountains like Langtang Lirung, Langtang Ri, and Dorje Lakpa.    

LocationElevation (meters)Minimum Temperature in August(°C)Maximum Temperature in August(°C)Rainfall August  (mm)
Langtang3,4307.516.2176
Kyanjin gompa3,8705.414.5143
Lama Hotel2,38011.319.5338

Highlights of Langtang Valley Trek

  • Relatively comfortable and accessible trek with authentic Himalayan experience.
  • Magnificent scenery of Langtang Lirung, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, and Jugal Himal.
  • Hike to Tserko Ri, a vantage point at 5,000 meters.
  • Explore the ethnic Tamang villages.
  • Opportunity to spot rare wildlife including red panda, snow leopard, and musk deer.
  • Visit the centuries-old monastery at Kyanjin Gompa.

Outline Itinerary

DayDescriptionAltitude from (Meter)Altitude to (Meter)Trekking Duration
1Drive from Kathmandu to Syabru Besi1,4001,5507-8 hours
2Trek from Syabru Besi to Lama Hotel 1,5502,3806-7 hours
3Trek from Lama Hotel to Mundu via Langtang Valley2,3803,4306-7 hours
4Trek from Mundu to Kyanjin Gompa3,4303,8703 hours
5Excursion to Tserko Ri (5,000 meters)3,8703,8705-6 hours
6Trek from Kyanjin Gompa to Lama Hotel3,8702,3806-7 hours
7Trek from Lama Hotel to Syabru Besi2,3801,5506-7 hours
8Drive from Syabru Besi to Kathmandu1,5501,4007-8 hours

2. Upper Dolpo Trek

Upper Dolpo Trek

Upper Dolpo is considered as a region of mystical beauty. Upper Dolpo trek is one of the most challenging, longest and adventurous treks in Nepal. Nepal’s far-western Upper Dolpo region lies in the most remote areas of the Himalaya. Trekking to the Upper Dolpo region offers a variety of natural, historical, and cultural aspects.

Though it’s a challenging and difficult trek it’s worth it when they came to explore the Tibetan culture, view the spectacular Himalayas, deep valleys and many more. Lake Phoksundo, 800-year-old Shey Monastery, deep valleys, Shey Phoksundo National Park, rare wildlife like snow leopard are some of the major attractions of Upper Dolpo trek.  

Upper Dolpo Trek
$4,850

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The trek also takes you through three high Himalayan passes above 5,000 meters at Kang La (5,360 meters), Saldang La (5,200 meters), and Jeng La Pass (5,090 meters). Therefore, the strenuous route of Upper Dolpo demands a serious commitment, permits are expensive and trekkers cannot go to Upper Dolpo independently.  

LocationElevation (meters)Minimum Temperature in August(°C)Maximum Temperature in August(°C)Rainfall August  (mm)
Nepalgunj15825.232.6308
Dunai2,00015.523.7285
Juphal 2, 49913.521.7222

Highlights of Upper Dolpo Trek

  • Explore the mystical land in the Trans-Himalayan region.
  • Gaze over the pristine lake of Shey Phoksundo.
  • Explore the village of Dho Tarap, the world’s highest settlement.
  • Hike across three high passes over 5,000 meters — Kang La Pass, Jeng La Pass, and Saldang Pass.
  • Visit the centuries-old Tibetan Buddhist monastery of Dolpo.

Outline Itinerary

DayDescriptionAltitude from (Meters)Altitude to (Meters)Trekking Duration
1Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj1,40015045 minutes
2Fly from Nepalgunj to Juphal (2,499 meters) and Trek to Dunai1502,1403-4 hours
3Trek from Dunai to Ankhe2,1402,1305-6 hours
4Trek from Ankhe to Sulighat2,1302,0505-6 hours
5Trek from Sulighat to Phoksundo Lake2,0503,6115 hours
6Acclimatization Day at Phoksundo Lake3,6113,611
7Trek from Phoksundo Lake to Phoksundo Khola3,6113,7505 hours
8Trek from Phoksundo Khola to Phoksundo Bhanjyang3,7504,7177 hours
9Trek from Phoksundo Bhanjyang to Shey Gompa via Kang La Pass (5,360 meters)4,7174,5006 hours
10Acclimatization Day at Shey Gompa4,5004,500
11Trek from Shey Gompa to Namduna Gaun via Saldang La Pass (5,200 meters)4,5004,8007 hours
12Trek from Namduna Gaun to Saldang4,8003,6205 hours
13Trek from Saldang to Yangze Gompa3,6204,9605-6 hours
14Trek from Yangze Gompa to Sibu4,9604,5606 hours
15Trek from Sibu to Jeng La Phedi4,5604,9006 hours
16Trek from Jeng-La Phedi to Tokyu Gaun via Jeng La Pass (5,090 meters)4,9004,2095 hours
17Trek from Tokyu Gaun to Dho Tarap4,2094,0405 hours
18Acclimatization Day at Dho Tarap4,0404,040
19Trek from Dho Tarap to Tarap Khola4,0403,8006 hours
20Trek from Tarap Khola to Khanigaun3,8003,1505 hours
21Trek from Khanigaun to Tarakot3,1502,5375 hours
22Trek from Tarakot to Dunai2,5372,1406 hours
23Trek from Dunai to Juphal2,1402,4993 hours
24Fly from Juphal to Nepalgunj (150 meters) and then to Kathmandu2,4751,4002 hours

3.Chisapani Nagarkot Trek

Chisapani Nagarkot Trek

Chisapani Nagarkot Trek is one of the shortest trekking routes around Kathmandu valley. This trek is most popular among the city people who want to come out of the city hub and willing to experience natural beauty. The gentle walk through the densely forested trails is perfect for novice trekkers. This trek offers a walk through beautiful forests, Shivapuri watershed, wildlife reserve, terraced farms, traditional villages, and their lifestyle.  

Chisapani Nagarkot trek starts from the trail of Sundarijal climbing up through the water pipelines. Starting from Sundarijal, the final destination of this trek is at Nagarkot. Nagarkot lies at an altitude of 2175 meters and is located 35 km east of Kathmandu. This small hill station offers stunning views of sunrise and sunset over the panoramic mountains like Annapurna range, Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, Manaslu.

This short trek is famous for every season. Especially during the monsoon season, the waterfall at Sundarijal looks more beautiful. This short and easy trek is worth to get a walk for the relaxation and get close with nature.   

LocationElevation (meters)Minimum Temperature in August(°C)Maximum Temperature in August(°C)Rainfall August (mm)
Kathmandu1,40019.727.2334
Bhaktapur1,35018.826.6395
Sundarijal1,3501926.8423
Chisapani2,17524.932.1323
Nagarkot2,17515.423.1670

Highlights of Chisapani Nagarkot Trek

  • A short trek to explore the Nepalese inhabitants and hidden valley. 
  • Hike through the shades of pine and oak forest in Shivapuri National Park
  • Get a glimpse of the sunrise and sunset from the hilltop of Nagarkot
  • Enjoy the stunning panoramic view of Annapurna, Langtang Lirung, Manaslu, and Ganesh Himal
  • See the cascading waterfalls at Sundarijal
  • Explore the artistic skill and urban ethos of the Newar community.

Outline Itinerary

DayItineraryAltitude from  (Meters)Altitude to (Meters)Trekking Duration
1Drive from Kathmandu to Sundarijal (1,350 meters) and Hike to Chisapani 1,4002,1755-6 hours
2Trek from Chisapani to Nagarkot2,1752,1756-7 hours
3Trek from Nagarkot to Bhaktapur (1,350 meters) and Drive to Kathmandu2,1751,4005-6 hours

4. Upper Mustang Trek 

Kagbeni gateway

Upper Mustang is popularly known as the hidden kingdom of Nepal and also consider as mini Tibet. Upper Mustang is the perfect combination of landscape, nature, biodiversity, rich culture, ancient Buddhist monastery, caves and holds a great history. The area is technically a restricted area, which means trekkers need to get special permits to enter. That’s why the number of visitors is also limited.   

Trekkers can enjoy the pristine landscape of the Upper Mustang region all year round. Bust still in the spring and autumn is considered the best season to explore the mysterious land of the Dhaulagiri and Annapurna area. 

Upper_Mustang_Treks
$1,930

Trekking through Upper Mustang is an incredible experience. Trudging through vast stretches of red hills and steep cliffs, you will…

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Upper Mustang gives the trekker to get close to the Tibetian Buddhist culture, tradition, and lifestyle. Lo-Manthang is surrounded by the oldest and most historical monasteries, seasonal vegetation, and antique ethnic Tibetian settlements. There are mainly two different festivals celebrated, horse running festivals and TIJI.        

LocationElevation (meters)Minimum Temperature in August(°C)Maximum Temperature in August(°C)Precipitation in August (mm)
Jomsom2,74311.419.754
Kagbeni2,80410.61958
Chele3,0509.718.260
Lo Manthang3,8406.115.169

Highlights of the Trek

  • The trek visits Kagbeni, the gateway to Upper Mustang. 
  • The trek goes through icy masses, high pinnacles and elevated valleys. 
  • Visit Lo-Manthnag, the city of wall surrounded by ancient Buddhist monastery, museum, and cave.  
  • Spectacular Himalayan view and arid landscape. 
  • Explore the traditional Tibetian Buddhist ethnic communities culture and customs. 
  • Outstanding views of Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Mt. Annapurna and other beautiful snow-covered peaks.  

Outline Itinerary

DayDescriptionAltitude from (Meters)Altitude to (Meters)Trekking Duration
1Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara1,4009006-7 hours
2Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom and Trek to Kagbeni9002,8003 hours
3Trek from Kagbeni to Chele2,8003,0506-7 hours
4Trek from Chele to Syangmoche3,0503,4756 hours
5Trek from Syangmoche to Ghami3,4753,5005 hours
6Trek from Ghami to Charang3,5003,5604 hours
7Trek from Charang to Lo Manthang3,5603,7705 hours
8Excursion to Chhoser Cave3,7703,7703 hours
9Trek from Lo Manthang to Drakmar3,7703,8006-7 hours
10Trek from Drakmar to Ghiling3,8003,8605-6 hours
11Trek from Ghiling to Chuksang3,8603,0505-6 hours
12Trek from Chuksang to Jomsom3,0502,7155-6 hours
13 Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara2,71590030 mins
14Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu9001,4006-7 hours

5. Gosainkunda Trek

Gosainkunda Lake Trek

Gosainkunda Lake is popularly known as a sacred natural site where every year thousands of pilgrims visit this place. Gosaikunda is also known as the frozen lake of the Langtang region. It holds great religious significance, especially for the Hindu pilgrimage. Gosaikunda trek is one week adventure to explore this Holy glacial lake. 

Starting the adventure with a drive from Kathmandu to Dhunche, this beautiful trail passes along several ethnic settlements, amazing landscapes, dense forests, and a diverse range of flora and fauna. The route to this sacred lake navigates through steep ridges. It also offers a stunning panoramic view of Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, Dorji Lakpa, and Himal Chuli mountains. 

Langtang_Gosaikunda_Treks
10 Days
$650

The Gosainkunda Trek takes you to the one of the holiest lakes in Asia for Hindus to the place where Lord Shiva stabbed his trident into the ground to create the wild waters of the Trisuli River. Thousands of Hindu Pilgrims from Nepal, India and other countries visit Gosainkunda to pay their homage to the holy Lake every year. The trek provides some magnificent views of the great Himalayas. The route we take is connected from Kathmandu to Dhunche and from Dhunche the trekking begins for a total of 18 days going along the ridge, through rhododendron and juniper forests…

The best part of doing the Gosaikunda trekking in August is that trekkers can experience the festival of Janai Purnima. So, if you’re planning to trek to Gosaikunda, it is advised to do so during the full moon day at the end of August. During this time of the year, thousands of devotees march to this holy lake to celebrate the festival. Trekkers can experience both religious and natural aspects in this season. 

LocationElevation (meters)Minimum Temperature in August(°C)Maximum Temperature in August(°C)Precipitation in August (mm)
Dhunche2,03015.323.3451
Rasuwa Garhi 1,87915.323.4336
Chandanbari4,380816.5187

Highlights of Gosainkunda Trek

  • Explore the sacred holy land of Nepal.
  • Visit the ancient monastery at Shin Gompa.
  • Get a chance to see the perfectly placed terraced slopes, diverse flora, and fauna, rare wild animals and culture of Tamang ethnic group.
  • The trek goes through the dense and lush forest of oak, pine, rhododendron, and birch.

Outline Itinerary

DayDescriptionAltitude from (Meter)Altitude to (Meter)Trekking Duration
1Drive from Kathmandu to Dhunche1,4001,3007-8 hours
2Trek from Dhunche to Shin Gompa1,3003,3304-5 hours
3Trek from Shin Gompa to Gosainkunda3,3304,4605-6 hours
4Trek from Gosainkunda to Chandanbari4,4602,0005 hours
5Trek from Chandanbari to Dhunche2,0001,3005-6 hours
6Drive from Dhunche to Kathmandu1,3001,4007-8 hours

6. Helambu Circuit Trek

Helambu Circuit Trek

Helambu Circuit Trek is an easy and short walk in the Langtang region. The landscape of the Helambu trek is designed in a tremendous way. This trek offers lush rhododendron and oak forests, captivating mountain views, rich alpine pastures, remote wilderness, and a glimpse of Hyolmo culture.

Helambu Circuit is a low altitude trek ideal for amateur trekkers who are looking for an escape from the busy schedule and experience the rustic lifestyle of the mountains. The route meanders through the rice terraces and dense forests of Shivapuri National Park as well as Langtang National Park. There’s also a possibility of encountering the rare red panda along the way. Stunning views of the mountains and the culture of Hyolmo makes a great mixture to attract the trekkers to visit the Helambu circuit. 

Helambu Trek
9 Days
$590

Helambu is an ideal region for short treks, it begins near to the Kathmandu Valley and leads to the Langtang Region and conservation area. Despite being so close to Kathmandu, the Helambu region remains relatively un-spoiled. Here you can experience the Hyolmo culture of high mountain people. Hike with the company of green rhododendron and bamboo forests, witness majestic waterfalls, and view the awesome snow-capped Himalayas. These all go to make the trek one of the most diverse treks accessible from Kathmandu. The great Himalayan scenery that leads up to the border with Tibet and…

Highlights of Helambu Circuit Trek

  • Relatively short and accessible trek from the capital city, Kathmandu.
  • The remote trails of two national parks —  Shivapuri National Park and Langtang National Park.
  • Witness the unique culture and rustic customs of Hyolmo people.
  • Opportunity to see rare wildlife, including red panda.

Outline Itinerary

DayDescriptionAltitude from (Meter)Altitude to (Meter)Trekking Duration
1Drive to Sundarijal and Trek to Chisapani1,4002,3005 hours
2Trek from Chisapani to Kutumsang2,3002,4467 hours
3Trek from Kutumsang to Thadepati2,4463,6506 hours
4Trek from Thadepati to Tarke Ghyang3,6502,5606 hours
5Trek from Tarke Ghyang to Sermathang2,5602,6103-4 hours
6Trek from Sermathang to Melamchi Bazar2,6108463-4 hours
7Drive from Melamchi Bazaar to Kathmandu8461,4003 hours

Important tips to know for trekking in Nepal in August

  • Carry raincoats to tackle the monsoon rain.
  • Bring waterproof bags that will keep safe from getting wet. 
  • Carry repellent to keep away the insects like mosquitoes and leeches.  
  • Be updated about the weather conditions before moving for the trekking. 
  • Hire well-trained trekking guide 
  • Avoid the areas which are highly affected by the monsoon
  • For the safe side carry an extra pair of clothes
  • There is a high chance of heavy rainfall during the day or evening time so start your trek in the early morning. 
  • Book the hotels for an extra day to deal with any kind of circumstances that may occur during the trek. 

List of recommended equipment for August trekking in Nepal 

Trekking in the Himalayas is not an easy job. The trekkers will face geographical, climatic, physical and sometimes cultural problems on their way. So it is important for the trekkers to learn the problems and take some prevention before starting their trek. 

Thus, they should have adequate information about what to pack and what to avoid. Sometimes carrying too much makes travel difficult and less than also can make you regretful which will automatically affect the trekking plan.   

Therefore, the weight of the equipment should always be in a minimum amount. The weight of the trekking bag should be no more than 15 kgs. 

  • Scarf to protect from dust, wind, and sun
  • Waterproof shell jacket and fleece gloves
  • Lightweight hiking pants
  • Hiking socks that prevent blisters
  • Sleeping bag
  • Headlamp and torch with extra batteries
  • Trekking poles
  • Binoculars
  • Basic First Aid kit 
  • Hand sanitizer 
  • Umbrellas and raincoats 

Final Thoughts

For adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers, the monsoon can’t stop them from exploring the beauty of Nepal. Even in the month of  August, when the monsoon is at a peak point. But still, Nepal offers a variety of destinations to explore where trekkers don’t have to tackle with heavy rainfall. Nepal has a lot of rain shadow areas, and most of the popular trekking routes of the country go through these rain shadow regions.

 Likewise, during this month, trekkers can have a short around Kathmandu Valley or Pokhara. They can enjoy festivals and visit historical and cultural places such as Durbar Square, monasteries, Stupa, and ancient temples.      

FAQ’s 

1. Nepal Is it safe to travel alone in the month of August in Nepal? 

Generally, Nepal is a safe country to travel and trekking in Nepal is overall a very safe activity. But, as August is the month of monsoon season so there might be very few people on the way and trails might not be that good to walk alone so it’s better to have someone who can give a company and also help you in need.  

2. Is August a good time to visit Nepal?

The month of June to August is not considered as an ideal season for trekking in Nepal. But it’s still possible to go for trekking in the rain shadow areas or a short trek around Kathmandu or Pokhara city. Some of the possible treks that can be done in this month have been mentioned above. 

3. Will trekking permits be available in August for trekking in Nepal? 

Yes, trekking permits are available for any trekking destination all year round. So, trekkers can freely enjoy their trek without any obstruction after they get the permit from the officials.  

4. Are the accommodations along the trekking routes open in August?

Undoubtedly, the accommodation along the trekking routes are open every season. All trekking routes have visitors in all seasons. So, trekkers don’t need to get worried about accommodation even in the month of August. 

Basu Panday

Basu Panday started his journey in tourism and hospitality as a support staff 17 years ago. He has travelled all the Himalayan region as trekking staff and trekking guide, and have climbed 6000+ meters several trekking peaks in the Himalaya. He often leads trips in Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan and India. He had travelled to many other countries such as Germany, France, Switzerland, Italy, Sweden, Romania, Lithuania, Greece, Denmark Spain, Australia and the USA for promotion of Nepal’s tourism.  After working as support staff, then tour and trek guide, he eventually fulfilled his desire to start his own company, Nepal Social Treks and Expedition, in 2006. Basu is friendly and he is the one who answers most of your trip questions. So if you have any inquiry about our trip, don't be shy. Write to us.
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