Nepal is a country with diverse topography with locations favorable for trekking all year round. And for trekking in Nepal in May, you have a wide range of options. Down below are the best routes for your trekking adventure in May.
May is a month of spring in Nepal. The weather in May offers clear skies and vivid views of the high Himalayas of Nepal. It may rain during the last week of May as it is close to monsoon. But the first few weeks will be dry and favorable for trekking.
Tea houses and hotels remain open for travelers during this month. The trees are lush green and forests filled with red rhododendrons.
Contents
- Weather Conditions in Nepal in May
- Festivals in Nepal in May
- Best Routes for Trekking in Nepal in May
- Everest Base Camp Trek
- Manaslu Circuit Trek- 15 days
- Upper Mustang Trek
- Tilicho Lake Trek
- Annapurna Base Camp Trek – 13 Days
- Langtang Valley Trek
- Tips for Trekking in Nepal in May
- Conclusion
- FAQs
- Q1. What is the weather like in May?
- Q2. Are accommodations available for trekking during May?
- Q3. Do I need rain protection gear for trekking in May?
- Q4. Do I need travel insurance for trekking in Nepal?
- Q4. Do I need to book early for the month of May?
- Q5. What should I do if I suffer from altitude sickness?
Weather Conditions in Nepal in May
May is the last month of spring. The skies remain mostly clear. The first few weeks won’t see much rain. However, the last week of the month may see a few rain showers since monsoon is just around the corner.
In May, the average temperatures tend to range from 14-16 degrees Celsius at night to 25-27 degrees Celsius in the day. But note that these are the temperatures at lower altitudes.
At altitudes above 3,500 meters, the temperatures might even drop down below 0 degrees Celsius at night. The weather patterns can change dramatically from sunny to snowy within a short period.
Here’s a table depicting the temperatures and precipitations of major locations in Nepal during May.
| Location | Elevation (meters) | Minimum temperature in May(°C) | Maximum temperature in May(°C) | Precipitation in May(mm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kathmandu | 1,400 | 15.8 | 28 | 116 |
| Pokhara | 900 | 18.4 | 29.8 | 312 |
| Biratnagar | 80 | 23.1 | 33.2 | 144 |
Festivals in Nepal in May
1. Buddha Jayanti
Buddha Jayanti signifies the birthday of Lord Buddha and holds great significance in the history of Nepal. It normally falls in the month of May and is a national holiday in Nepal. On this day, both Hindus and Buddhists hold several festive events and celebrate together.
Especially in Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha, a grand celebration is held on this day. Devotees from all over the country gather and partake in these events and processions. Places like Boudhanath and Swayambhunath are the main locations in Kathmandu valley where you can see Buddha Jayanti celebrations.
2. Ganatantra Diwas (Republic Day)
Ganatantra Diwas is the celebration of the establishment of the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal on May 29, 2008. The main celebration is carried out at the Sainik Manch in Tudikhel. You can see ceremonious parades taking place at Tudikhel.
Best Routes for Trekking in Nepal in May
1. Everest Base Camp Trek
The Everest Base Camp Trek takes you to the footsteps of the Everest.
May is one of the best months to trek in the Everest Region. The skies remain clear for most of the days, and there is little to no rain. The placid sky makes it possible to perceive baffling landscapes and mountain panoramas.
This thrilling adventure takes you to an altitude of 5,643 meters at Kala Patthar. This viewpoint offers some of the best views of Everest, including other surrounding peaks like Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Cho-Oyu, and Nuptse.
You walk through forests of red rhododendrons and green vegetation of the Sagarmatha National Park. You might also spot exotic wildlife as it is home to rare mammal species including musk deer, snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, red panda, and Himalayan tahr among many others.
Here’s a table with Temperature and Rainfall details for locations en-route the Everest Base Camp Trek.
| Location | Elevation (meters) | Minimum Temperature in May(°C) | Maximum Temperature in May(°C) | Precipitation in May(mm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lukla | 2,860 | 7.2 | 17.4 | 98 |
| Namche | 3,440 | 3.4 | 14.3 | 55 |
| Tengboche | 3,956 | 0.9 | 13.5 | 40 |
| Dingboche | 4,380 | -3.5 | 11.1 | 16 |
| Gorak Shep | 5,160 | -6.5 | 7.8 | 9 |
| Lobuche | 4,930 | -5.6 | 8.9 | 11 |
Highlights of this Trek
- Everest Base Camp at 5,545 meters
- Tengboche Monastery, the biggest Buddhist monastery in the Khumbu region
- Kala Patthar, the highest point in the trek at 5,643 meters
- Namche, the Sherpa capital of the world
- Splendid views of Mt Everest, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Cho-Oyu, Nuptse among others
Outline Itinerary of Everest Base Camp Trek
| Day | Itinerary | Altitude from (Meters) | Altitude to (Meters) | Trekking Time (Hours) | Trekking Distance (Kilometers) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrive in Kathmandu | – | 1,400 | – | – |
| 2 | Fly from Kathmandu to Luka, then trek to Phakding | 1,400 | 2,651 | 3-4 | 9 |
| 3 | Trek from Phakding to Namche | 2,651 | 3,440 | 5-6 | 12 |
| 4 | Acclimatize in Namche | 3,440 | 3,440 | – | – |
| 5 | Trek from Namche to Tengboche | 3,440 | 3,956 | 5-6 | 10 |
| 6 | Trek from Tengboche to Dingboche | 3,956 | 4,380 | 5-6 | 12 |
| 7 | Acclimatize in Dingboche | 4,380 | 4,380 | – | – |
| 8 | Trek from Dingboche to Lobuche | 4,380 | 4,930 | 6-7 | 12 |
| 9 | Trek from Lobuche to Gorakh Shep, then hike to EBC (5,545 meters) and back to Gorakh Shep | 4,930 | 5,160 | 7-8 | 15 |
| 10 | Hike to Kala Patthar(5,643 meters), then trek from Gorakh Shep to Periche | 5,160 | 4,371 | 6-7 | 13 |
| 11 | Trek from Periche to Namche | 4,371 | 3,440 | 7-8 | 14 |
| 12 | Trek from Namche to Lukla | 3,440 | 2,860 | 7-8 | 15 |
| 13 | Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu | 2,860 | 1,400 | – | – |
| 14 | Departure from Kathmandu | 1,400 | – | – | – |
2. Manaslu Circuit Trek
The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a trek around Mt Manaslu. The routes are secluded and serene – perfect for trekkers seeking a peaceful and tranquil trekking experience.
The skies remain mostly clear in the month of May, making it possible to view some of the most astounding views of peaks such as Manaslu, Himchuli, Ganesh, and Ngadi Chuli from the viewpoint of Larkya La Pass. This pass stands at an elevation of 5,167 meters and is one of the highest Himalayan passes.
May is a good time to witness the floral and wildlife diversity of the Manaslu Conservation Area. This conservation area shelters 33 different species of mammals, 110 species of birds, and over 1,500 species of flowering plants.
In May, you will get to indulge with the locals along your journey and explore ancient Tibetan cultures and lifestyles.
Here’s a table with Temperature and Rainfall details for locations en-route the Manaslu Circuit Trek.
| Location | Elevation (meters) | Minimum Temperature in May(°C) | Maximum Temperature in May(°C) | Precipitation in May(mm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sama Gaun | 3,530 | 2.8 | 16.3 | 13 |
| Samdo | 3,690 | -0.1 | 13.5 | 11 |
| Besisahar | 760 | 18.8 | 30.7 | 277 |
| Jagat | 1,340 | 15.9 | 28.8 | 163 |
| Lho | 2,957 | 4.8 | 18.2 | 17 |
Highlights of this Trek
- Floral and wildlife diversity of the Manaslu Conservation Area
- Larkya La Pass, one of the highest passes in the world at an altitude of 5,167 meters
- Ancient and uninfluenced Tibetan cultures and lifestyles
- Marvelous views of Manaslu, Kanchenjunga, Himlung, Cheo Himal, among other high Himalayas
- Exotic wildlife like Snow Leopard, Tahr (Mountain Goat), Agali (Blue Sheep), and Pika (highest living mammal)
Outline Itinerary of Manaslu Circuit Trek
| Day | Itinerary | Altitude from (Meters) | Altitude to (Meters) | Trekking Duration (Hours) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola | 1,400 | 700 | – |
| 2 | Trek from Soti Khola to Maccha Khola | 700 | 930 | 6 |
| 3 | Trek from Maccha Khola to Jagat | 930 | 1,340 | 7 |
| 4 | Trek from Jagat to Deng | 1,340 | 1,600 | 6 |
| 5 | Trek from Deng to Namrung | 1,600 | 2,630 | 6 |
| 6 | Trek from Namrung to Lho | 2,630 | 2,957 | 4 |
| 7 | Trek from Lho to Sama Gaun | 2,957 | 3,530 | 4 |
| 8 | Acclimatize at Sama Gaun, Side trip to either Pungyen Gompa, Manaslu Base Camp or Birendra Tal | 3,530 | 4,400 | 4 |
| 9 | Trek from Sama Gaun to Samdo | 4,400 | 3,865 | 4 |
| 10 | Acclimatization Day – Side Trip to Tibetan Border | 3,865 | 5,100 | 8 |
| 11 | Trek from Samdo to Dharmasala | 3,865 | 4,460 | 4 |
| 12 | Trek from Dharmasala to Bimthang through Larkya La Pass | 4,460 | 3,590 | 10 |
| 13 | Trek from Bimthang to Tal | 3,590 | 1,700 | 9 |
| 14 | Trek from Tal to Tilije or Besi Sahar(760 meters), then drive to Kathmandu | 1,700 | 1,400 | 3 |
3. Upper Mustang Trek
The Upper Mustang Trek is one of the best routes to trek in the month of May. This trek takes you through trans-Himalayan rocky terrains to the Rain Shadow Regions of the Annapurna massif.
During the month of May, the temperatures are rising but it’s not too hot since summer is just around the corner. The nights are favorably cool. There is almost no rain throughout the year in these regions.
Lo Manthang, the capital of the former kingdom of Mustang, sits at an elevation of 3,840 meters. This trek takes you to the most intriguing parts of the country where you get to explore unique Tibetan culture and lifestyle uninfluenced by modern societies.
En route the trek, you also come across the Kali Gandaki Gorge. This gorge sits in between two mountains above 8,000 meters, namely Dhaulagiri and Annapurna. This makes it the deepest gorge in the world.
Here’s a table with Temperature and Rainfall details for locations en-route the Upper Mustang Trek.
| Location | Elevation (meters) | Minimum Temperature in May(°C) | Maximum Temperature in May(°C) | Precipitation in May(mm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jomsom | 2,743 | 7.6 | 21.5 | 11 |
| Kagbeni | 2,804 | 6.6 | 20.6 | 12 |
| Chele | 3,050 | 5.4 | 19.6 | 12 |
| Lo Manthang | 3,840 | 1.1 | 15.5 | 13 |
Highlights of this Trek
- Magnificent views of snow-capped mountains, including Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Annapurna
- Lo-Manthang and the Forbidden Kingdom of Lo
- Kali Gandaki gorge, the deepest gorge in the world
- Muktinath, a holy temple of Hindus and Buddhists
- Secluded and pristine trekking trails
Outline Itinerary of Upper Mustang Trek
| Day | Itinerary | Altitude from (Meters) | Altitude to (Meters) | Trekking Duration (Hours) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrival in Kathmandu | – | 1,400 | – |
| 2 | Sightseeing in Kathmandu | 1,400 | 1,400 | – |
| 3 | Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara | 1,400 | 900 | – |
| 4 | Fly from Pokhara to Jomsom, then trek to Kagbeni | 900 | 2,810 | 3-4 |
| 5 | Trek from Kagbeni to Chele | 2,810 | 3,050 | 5-6 |
| 6 | Trek from Chele to Syanbochen | 3,050 | 3,475 | 6-7 |
| 7 | Trek from Syanbochen to Ghami | 3,475 | 3,520 | 5-6 |
| 8 | Trek from Ghami to Tsarang | 3,520 | 3,620 | 5-6 |
| 9 | Trek from Tsarang to Lo-Manthang | 3,620 | 3,840 | 3-4 |
| 10 | Acclimatize at Lo-Manthang | 3,840 | 3,840 | – |
| 11 | Trek from Lo-Manthang to Drakmar | 3,840 | 3,810 | 6-7 |
| 12 | Trek from Drakmar to Ghiling | 3,810 | 3,806 | 5-6 |
| 13 | Trek from Ghiling to Chhuksang | 3,806 | 3,050 | 5-6 |
| 14 | Trek from Chhuksang to Jomsom | 3,050 | 2,700 | 6-7 |
| 15 | Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara | 2,700 | 900 | – |
| 16 | Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu | 900 | 1,400 | – |
| 17 | Departure from Kathmandu | 1,400 | – | – |
4. Tilicho Lake Trek
Tilicho Lake Trek is a wonderful journey to Tilicho, a turquoise lake in the high Himalayan region of Manang.
Thorong La Pass is one of the major highlights of this trek. May is a fine month to cross this high Himalayan pass that stands at an elevation of 5,416 meters. You get stupendous views of Annapurna, Gangapurna, Manaslu, and Dhaulagiri from this staggering height.
You walk through remote villages of diverse ethnic people and their culture and lifestyle. Manang is one of these mountain villages where you can find Tibetan Buddhist cultures that are both unique as well as amusing.
You also come across the Muktinath temple en route the Tilicho Lake Trek. This Vishnu temple is known as Mukti Kshetra which means a place of salvation. Hindu and Buddhist devotees from many parts of the country visit this temple every year.
Highlights of the Trek
- Tilicho Lake, a serene and turquoise lake at an elevation of 4,919 meters
- Thorong la Pass, a high pass at an elevation of 5,416 meters
- The Himalayan district of Manang
- Quaint ethnic cultures and lifestyles influenced by Tibetan cultures
- Mesmerizing views of Annapurna, Manaslu, and Dhaulagiri
- Muktinath, a significant Hindu temple in Mustang
Tilicho Lake is situated at 4,919M in the Annapurna Range and is one of the highest lakes in the world. Its crystal blue elegance has attracted visitors from all over the world,the lake is mentioned in Ramayan an ancient Hindu book. This trek starts from Besisahar and follows the Marshyangdi River, with some great views of Manaslu and Himal Chuli to the east.We trek through villages inhabited by a wide diversity of people from different ethnic groups with the trail offering spectacular views of the snow clad Himalayas. We have customized this route as it is basically…
Here’s a table with Temperature and Rainfall details for locations en-route the Tilicho Lake Trek.
| Location | Elevation (meters) | Minimum Temperature in May(°C) | Maximum Temperature in May(°C) | Precipitation in May(mm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kathmandu | 1,400 | 15.8 | 28 | 116 |
| Pokhara | 900 | 18.4 | 29.8 | 312 |
| Jagat | 1,340 | 15.9 | 28.8 | 163 |
| Jomsom | 2,743 | 7.6 | 21.5 | 11 |
| Manang | 3,517 | 3.1 | 16.7 | 14 |
Outline Itinerary of Tilicho Lake Trek
| Day | Itinerary | Altitude from (Meters) | Altitude to (Meters) | Trekking Duration (Hours) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrival in Kathmandu | – | 1,400 | – |
| 2 | Kathmandu Valley tour | 1,400 | 1,400 | 4-5 |
| 3 | Drive from Kathmandu to Jagat | 1,400 | 1,340 | 6-7 |
| 4 | Trek from Jagat to Dharapani | 1,340 | 1,960 | 4-5 |
| 5 | Trek from Dharapani to Chame | 1,960 | 2,630 | 5-6 |
| 6 | Trek from Chame to Pisang | 2,630 | 3,210 | 5-6 |
| 7 | Trek from Pisang to Manang | 3,210 | 3,540 | 6-7 |
| 8 | Acclimatization day at Manang | 3,540 | 3,540 | 5 |
| 9 | Trek from Manang to Khangsar Village | 3,540 | 3,734 | 4-5 |
| 10 | Trek from Khangsar Village to Tilicho Lake Base Camp | 3,734 | 4,150 | 6 |
| 11 | Trek from Tilicho Lake Base Camp to Tilicho lake (4,919 meters) and back to Base Camp | 4,150 | 4,150 | 8-10 |
| 12 | Trek from Base Camp to Yak Kharka | 4,150 | 4,000 | 5-6 |
| 13 | Trek from Yak Kharka to Phedi | 4,000 | 4,420 | 5 |
| 14 | Trek from Phedi to Muktinath via Thorong La Pass (5,416 meters) | 4,420 | 3,800 | 7-8 |
| 15 | Trek from Muktinath to Jomsom via Kagbeni (2,810 meters) | 3,800 | 2,713 | 5-6 |
| 16 | Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara | 2,713 | 900 | – |
| 17 | Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu | 900 | 1,400 | – |
5. Annapurna Base Camp Trek
The Annapurna Base Camp is a fantastic choice for trekking in May. This journey takes you to the laps of the Annapurna range.
Annapurna Base Camp sits at an elevation of 4,130 meters. This is the highest elevation that you reach during this trek. You get some of the most picturesque views of the Annapurna along with Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and Lamjung from this vantage point. The clear weather in May also assists in making these scenes available to you during your trek.
The routes take you deep inside the Annapurna Sanctuary filled with exotic flora and fauna. The Annapurna Conservation Area is home to 1,226 species of flowering plants, 105 mammals, 518 birds, 40 reptiles, and 23 amphibians.
There are a number of accommodation options throughout the trek thanks to the popularity of this trekking route. And all of them remain open during May. So you can have a wonderful trek without having to worry about accommodation.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a classic teahouse trek that takes you to foothills of the Annapurna Massifs. Trudging along the rugged trails of Annapurna, adorned with a diverse landscape, unique culture, high Himalayas, and rich biodiversity is truly a once in a lifetime experience. Annapurna in Sanskrit means “goddess of the harvest,” which is quite appropriate considering the rich biodiversity of the region. The adventure of Annapurna Base Camp extends for 13 days. You’ll get to marvel at the majestic mountains, including Annapurna range, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna, Khangsar Kang, and Tent Peak. In addition to that, this…
Here’s a table with Temperature and Rainfall details for locations en-route the Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
| Location | Elevation (meters) | Minimum Temperature in May(°C) | Maximum Temperature in May(°C) | Rainfall (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ghorepani | 3,210 | 6.5 | 19.6 | 34 |
| Ghandruk | 2,012 | 11.2 | 24.1 | 240 |
| Deurali | 3,230 | 8.3 | 18.1 | 91 |
| Chomrong | 2,170 | 11.2 | 24.2 | 233 |
Highlights of this Trek
- Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 meters
- Majestic views of Mt Annapurna (I, II, III, and IV), Machhapuchhre, Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, and others
- Kali Gandaki, the deepest gorge in the world
- Sub-tropical forests filled with exotic flora and fauna
- Gurung Museum in Ghandruk
Outline Itinerary of Annapurna Base Camp Trek
| Day | Itinerary | Altitude from (Meters) | Altitude to (Meters) | Trekking Duration (Hours) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara | 1,400 | 900 | – |
| 2 | Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, then Trek to Ghandruk | 900 | 1,940 | 5-6 |
| 3 | Trek from Ghandruk to Chomrong | 1,940 | 2,170 | 6 |
| 4 | Trek from Chomrong to Bamboo | 2,170 | 2,310 | 4-5 |
| 5 | Trek from Bamboo to Deurali | 2,310 | 3,230 | 3-4 |
| 6 | Trek from Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp | 3,230 | 4,130 | 5-6 |
| 7 | Trek from Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo | 4,130 | 2,310 | 7-8 |
| 8 | Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda | 2,310 | 1,760 | 5-6 |
| 9 | Trek from Jhinu Danda to Nayapul, then drive to Pokhara | 1,760 | 900 | 6-7 |
| 10 | Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu | 900 | 1,400 | – |
6. Langtang Valley Trek
The Langtang Valley Trek is a favorable trek to do in the month of May. The routes that you walk are mostly dry and traversable.
Tserko Ri is the highest elevation that you reach during this trek. From this viewpoint, you can get jaw-dropping views of the high Himalayas including Langtang Lirung, Langtang Ri, and Dorje Lakpa.
May is also a good time to explore rich diversity of flora and fauna in the Langtang National Park. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a few rare wildlife including snow leopards in the higher parts of the Langtang region.
There’s an ancient Buddhist monastery at Kyanjin village that you come across during this trek called Kyanjin Gompa. While exploring the village and this gompa, you get a feel of the quaint culture and lifestyle of Sherpas residing here.
A new village is starting to take shape after the devastation of Langtang Village caused by the earthquake in 2015 AD. During your overnight stay here in Langtang Village, you might get a chance to talk to the villagers about their struggles during those hard times.
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…
Here’s a table with Temperature and Rainfall details for locations en-route the Langtang Valley Trek.
| Location | Elevation (meters) | Minimum Temperature in May(°C) | Maximum Temperature in May(°C) | Precipitation in May (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Langtang | 3,430 | 3.3 | 15.9 | 25 |
| Kyanjin gompa | 3,870 | 0.8 | 13.9 | 18 |
| Lama Hotel | 2,380 | 8 | 20 | 51 |
Highlights of this Trek
- Tserko Ri, the highest viewpoint in the trek at 4,984 meters
- Kyanjin Gompa, an ancient Buddhist Monastery
- Langtang National Park, home to rich biodiversity
- Langtang Village and the friendly residents
- Tibet-influenced culture and lifestyle
Outline Itinerary of Langtang Valley Trek
| Day | Itinerary | Altitude from (Meters) | Altitude to (Meters) | Trekking Duration (Hours) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi | 1,400 | 1,550 | – |
| 2 | Trek from Syabrubesi to Lama Hotel | 1,550 | 2,380 | 6 |
| 3 | Trek from Lama Hotel to Mundu via Langtang village | 2,380 | 3,430 | 6-7 |
| 4 | Trek from Mundu to Kyanjin Gompa | 3,430 | 3,870 | 3 |
| 5 | Trek from Kyanjin Gompa to Tserko Ri | 3,870 | 4,984 | 7-8 |
| 6 | Trek from Tserko Ri to Lama Hotel | 4,984 | 2,380 | 6-7 |
| 7 | Trek from Lama Hotel to Syabrubesi | 2,380 | 1,550 | 6-7 |
| 8 | Drive from Syabrubesi to Kathmandu | 1,550 | 1,400 | – |
Tips for Trekking in Nepal in May
Carry a four-season Sleeping Bag
High altitudes tend to have feeble and unpredictable weather patterns. It’s a good idea to carry a warm sleeping bag if your journey takes you to altitudes higher than 4,000 meters.
There may be instances when you may feel cold even inside the teahouses. In these cases, you can get inside your sleeping bag and sleep in the warmth.
Beware of Altitude Sickness
After you cross the elevation of 3,500 meters, the risks of altitude sickness tend to rise too. Therefore, you need to stay aware of your physical state. If you happen to notice any symptoms like headaches, difficulty in breathing, or paleness of face, apply a few preventive measures.
Ascend slower and at a steady pace. Drink plenty of water. Sleep at relatively lower altitudes.
Carry Diamox tablets with you if you are planning to trek at high altitudes. These drugs help to prevent altitude-related illnesses.
Carry a First Aid Box
Accidents occur without warnings. When you add in the unpredictable weather of the high Himalayas, the chances of accidents increase. On top of that, even small wounds tend to heal slow at high altitudes. So carry a first aid box with you at all times.
Cover up
The UV concentration at high altitudes is extreme. It is better to apply sunscreen to exposed parts of your body like face, arms, and legs to protect yourself from these dangerous rays.
Train yourself
Some of the treks mentioned above can be long and strenuous. Train yourself accordingly depending upon the trek that you choose.
Exercises that include cardiovascular training, strength training, and mental training are essential for demanding treks in Manaslu and Annapurna regions.
Conclusion
There are numerous trekking routes favorable for trekking in Nepal in May. The skies are usually clear and there is very little precipitation this month. The temperature is neither too hot nor too cold.
There are also enjoyable festivals like Buddha Jayanti and Ganatantra Diwas that you can enjoy with the locals in May. May is an enjoyable month in Nepal, pretty much like any other. Just keep in mind a few of the tips mentioned above to avoid difficulties during your journey.
FAQs
Q1. What is the weather like in May?
The weather in May is favorable for trekking and other outdoor activities. The skies are mostly clear without much rain in the first 3 weeks of May. However, the last week may receive a few rain showers since the next month is the start of the monsoon in Nepal.
The temperatures tend to range from 14-16 degrees Celsius at night and to 25-27 degrees celsius in the day. But at altitudes higher than 3,500 meters, sometimes the temperatures may even go below 0 degrees Celsius at night.
Q2. Are accommodations available for trekking during May?
Yes. Accommodations are available while trekking in May. Spring is a trekking season in Nepal. Most teahouses and lodges remain open since there are many visitors during this time.
Q3. Do I need rain protection gear for trekking in May?
It is better to carry some rain protection gear like waterproof trekking shoes, jackets, and raincoats for trekking in Nepal in May. The last week of this month can see a few rain showers in the lower trekking routes.
Q4. Do I need travel insurance for trekking in Nepal?
It is not mandatory to have travel insurance for trekking in Nepal. However, it is always a good idea to get insurance while traveling anywhere in the world. It can help to pay for the expenses in any case of travel injuries or property loss.
Worlds Nomads is a great choice if you’re searching for a decent insurance company. This company offers insurance for emergency medical expenses, trip cancellations, and all the travel essentials.
Q4. Do I need to book early for the month of May?
No. You won’t need to book early for the month of May. However, it is a good idea to book early for world-famous treks like the Everest Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
Q5. What should I do if I suffer from altitude sickness?
You need to be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness at altitudes higher than 3,500 meters. The best preventive measure for altitude sickness is trekking slowly and at a steady pace. It is not a good idea to ascend to high altitudes within a short period of time.
In case you fall victim to altitude sickness, you need to stop ascending to higher altitudes immediately. It is better to get down to lower altitudes, take enough rest, and then only begin to climb higher if the symptoms have lessened.
