Trekking in Nepal in March: Spring Awakes and the Trails Come Alive

If you’re thinking about trekking in Nepal and your calendar says March, you’re in for something special. March is the month when Nepal begins to stretch and yawn out of winter. The snow still dusts the high peaks, but down below, the hills begin to blush with blooming rhododendrons. The skies open up, the trails wake up, and the trekking season begins in earnest.

It’s not yet the busiest time, but the best bits of both worlds are here — clear skies, stable weather, and enough fellow trekkers to share a tea house fire, without the crowds of peak April.

What’s Nepal Like in March?

March is the unofficial start of spring trekking season in Nepal. The air is fresh, the flowers start to bloom, and the weather is much more stable than winter. It’s also one of the most photogenic months of the year — think red rhododendrons against bright blue skies with snow-capped mountains in the distance.

Rhododendron Watch: Full bloom starts late March at 2,000–3,000 meters
Visibility: Generally excellent
Rain: Occasional late afternoon showers in lower elevations

Why Trek in March?

1. Spring Blooms

March marks the start of rhododendron season, especially in the Annapurna and Langtang regions. You’ll walk through entire hillsides of pink, red, and white flowers. It’s like trekking through a botanical watercolor painting.

2. Ideal Temperatures

Gone is the bone-biting cold of January and February, but you’re still far from the humid heat of the monsoon. March days are pleasant, and the sun feels warm without being punishing.

3. Open Lodges and Friendly Trails

With the trekking season ramping up, most tea houses are fully operational, and the trails begin to buzz again. You’ll meet fellow trekkers, but the paths are still far from crowded.

4. Festivals in the Air

Depending on the lunar calendar, Holi — the Festival of Colors — often falls in March. Imagine starting your trek with a splash of color and celebration in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Best Treks for March

Nearly every major trekking route is in excellent condition by March.

1. Everest Base Camp Trek (EBC)

• Fully open and ideal this time of year

• Crystal-clear views of Ama Dablam, Everest, and Lhotse

• Lukla flights are more regular as the weather stabilizes

2. Annapurna Base Camp Trek (ABC)

• The trail to ABC is lush and coming back to life

• Rhododendrons start to bloom around Ghorepani

• Watch out for leftover snow near Machhapuchhre Base Camp

3. Ghorepani–Poon Hill Trek

• Short, rhododendron-filled, and incredibly photogenic

• A perfect trek for those who want springtime views without altitude extremes

4. Langtang Valley Trek

• Less crowded, raw nature, and a fantastic March option

• Great views, accessible trail, and lots of wildlife

5. Mardi Himal Trek

• Rapidly rising in popularity

• Perfect mix of forest, ridge-line views, and panoramic Himalayas

Restricted Area Treks in March

Manaslu Circuit Trek

• March is perfect for Manaslu. Snow begins to melt, and the Larkya La Pass becomes accessible with proper guidance.

• Trails are quieter than Annapurna or Everest

Upper Mustang Trek

• Technically open, but still cold

• Most lodges start prepping for the season by late March

What to Pack for March Trekking

You’ll need to layer smart in March. Mornings and evenings are still chilly, especially at altitude, but days are comfortably warm when the sun is out.

Essentials:

• Medium-weight down jacket

• Base layers for higher elevation nights

• Light fleece or sweater

• Quick-dry T-shirts for daytime

• Waterproof shell (light rain can happen)

• Gloves and a warm hat for early mornings

• Sunglasses and sunscreen (UV is strong)

Optional but helpful:

• Trekking poles (trails can still be slick in shaded areas)

• Gaiters if you’re heading into areas with melting snow

Getting There: March Transport Tips

• Lukla flights (for EBC) are more reliable in March than in winter, but delays can still happen. Buffer a day in your plan.

• Roads to trailheads like Nayapul (ABC) and Syabrubesi (Langtang) are in decent condition unless there’s a rare early spring shower.

• Tourist buses and domestic flights between Kathmandu and Pokhara operate smoothly.

What About Crowds?

March offers a “best of both worlds” scenario. Popular routes like EBC and ABC begin to see moderate foot traffic, but you’ll still find quiet stretches to enjoy the mountains in peace. Tea houses are open, but you won’t be fighting for beds just yet.

Bottom Line: Is March a Good Month to Trek in Nepal?

Absolutely. If you want the vivid beauty of spring without the April rush, March is your month. It’s ideal for photography, wildlife, and panoramic views with just the right amount of social trekking spirit.

You’ll feel the pulse of the trekking season start to beat, but there’s still space to breathe, reflect, and soak in the rhythm of the Himalayas.

Looking for the best March itineraries or guided group treks?
We’ve got you. Hit us up at TrekHeaven.com or browse our updated trail guides, packing lists, and local weather reports.