# Nepal in April: Rhododendrons, Spring Treks, Nepali New Year and Travel Tips

_Published 5 January 2026_

**April** is the heart of Nepal's spring season and one of the two best times of year to visit. Hillsides blaze red, pink and white with **rhododendron** blossom, the national flower; temperatures are warm in the valleys and milder at altitude than in autumn; and the **Everest** region buzzes with climbing expeditions preparing for summit attempts. It's also the month of **Nepali New Year**, marked by the **Bisket Jatra** chariot festival in Bhaktapur, and the best time to see wildlife in **Chitwan** and **Bardia**.

April has its trade-offs too: more haze than in autumn, occasional afternoon showers and hot weather in the lowlands. Here's what April is really like, where to trek, what to pack and how to plan around the spring weather.

**Quick answer:** April is **peak spring season** in Nepal, with **warm days**, **rhododendrons in bloom** and good trekking conditions. Kathmandu has highs around **28°C**, while nights at Everest Base Camp are around **-5 to -10°C**. Expect **some haze** and **afternoon clouds or showers**, with the clearest views in the morning. Top treks include **Everest Base Camp** (during expedition season), **Annapurna Base Camp**, **Poon Hill**, **Langtang** and **Makalu**. Nepali New Year falls around **13–14 April**.

## Why visit Nepal in April?

For many experienced Himalayan travellers, spring is their favourite season, and April is its peak. After the cold, dry winter, the hills come alive with colour. Rhododendron forests, some of the largest in the world, burst into bloom between about 2,000 and 3,500 metres, turning whole hillsides crimson, pink and white. Magnolias, orchids and wildflowers add to the display, and birdsong fills the forests. Temperatures at altitude are milder than in autumn, making nights at high teahouses more comfortable and high passes less brutally cold. Days are long, giving plenty of time for walking.

April is also the month when Everest comes alive. Climbing teams from around the world gather at Everest Base Camp, creating a colourful tent city on the Khumbu Glacier. Trekkers who reach base camp in April see the expeditions preparing for their summit attempts, an experience unavailable in autumn. Meanwhile, in the lowlands, the grass in Chitwan and Bardia has been cut and burned, and animals gather at waterholes, making April one of the best months for wildlife spotting.

April also brings Nepali New Year, celebrated across the country, the Bisket Jatra chariot festival in Bhaktapur, and plenty of local celebrations. It is a lively, colourful time to be in Nepal.

## Best treks in April

TrekDurationApril highlightsPoon Hill4–5 daysSome of Nepal's best rhododendron forestsAnnapurna Base Camp7–12 daysRhododendrons, milder sanctuary nightsEverest Base Camp12–14 daysExpedition tents at base campLangtang Valley7–10 daysBlooming forests, Tamang cultureMakalu Base Camp18–20 daysBarun valley rhododendronsKanchenjunga20–24 daysRemote spring forests and flowersMardi Himal5–7 daysRhododendron ridges near PokharaUpper Mustang12–14 daysDry, pleasant rain-shadow trekkingFor rhododendrons, the classic choices are the Ghorepani and Poon Hill trek, the forests below Annapurna Base Camp, the Langtang valley and the Makalu Barun region. For mountain drama and expedition atmosphere, Everest Base Camp is superb. Remote treks such as Kanchenjunga and Makalu are excellent in April and see far fewer trekkers than the main routes. Take a look at our guides to [Poon Hill](/blog/poon-hill-trek-guide), [Langtang](/blog/langtang-valley-trek-guide) and [Makalu Base Camp](/blog/makalu-base-camp-trek-guide).

## Rhododendron season

Nepal is home to around thirty species of rhododendron, and **Lali Gurans**, the red rhododendron, is the national flower. In April, the forests between Ghorepani and Tadapani, around Ghandruk and Chhomrong, in the Langtang valley, in the Makalu Barun region and on the approaches to Kanchenjunga turn into cathedrals of colour. Lower down, around 2,000 metres, the blooms start in March; higher up, towards 3,500 metres, they peak in late April and early May. Colours range from deep crimson at lower altitudes to pink and white higher up, and walking through these forests with snow peaks rising behind is one of the most beautiful experiences in the Himalaya. Villagers make rhododendron juice and wine from the flowers, and you may be offered a glass in teahouses.

## Everest expedition season

April is the build-up to the Everest climbing season, with summit attempts usually taking place in May. Expedition teams begin arriving at Everest Base Camp in early April, setting up large camps with dining tents, communication tents and colourful sleeping tents. Sherpa climbers fix ropes through the Khumbu Icefall and establish higher camps, and climbers acclimatise with rotations up and down the mountain. Reach base camp in April and you'll see this tent village in full swing, and maybe chat with climbers. Note that trekkers are asked not to stay overnight at base camp without an expedition permit and should respect the privacy of expedition teams. Take a look at our guide to [Everest Base Camp](/blog/everest-base-camp-trek-guide).

## Nepali New Year and Bisket Jatra

Nepali New Year, **Nawa Barsa**, falls around 13–14 April and marks the start of the Bikram Sambat calendar year. Across the country, people celebrate with family gatherings, picnics, concerts and visits to temples. In Kathmandu, streets are decorated and there are music events in public squares. The biggest celebration is **Bisket Jatra** in **Bhaktapur**, a nine-day festival in which huge wooden chariots carrying the deities Bhairav and Bhadrakali are hauled through the narrow streets in a rowdy tug-of-war between the upper and lower halves of the town. A towering wooden pole (lingo) is erected and then pulled down, symbolising the start of the new year. Crowds are enormous and the atmosphere electric. If you are in Nepal in mid-April, do not miss it. Take a look at our [Bhaktapur travel guide](/blog/bhaktapur-travel-guide) and [festivals of Nepal](/blog/festivals-of-nepal).

Other April festivals include **Ram Navami**, celebrating the birth of Lord Ram, and, towards the end of April or in May, the start of the long **Rato Machhindranath Jatra** in Patan, when a tall chariot is pulled through the city over several weeks.

## Wildlife safaris in April

April is one of the best months for wildlife in **Chitwan** and **Bardia** national parks. By this time, tall elephant grass has been cut and burned by local communities, opening up the landscape and making it easier to spot animals. Rivers and waterholes shrink in the dry heat, and animals such as one-horned rhinos, wild elephants, spotted deer, sambar and gaur gather near water. Tiger sightings, though never guaranteed, are more likely in the dry season, especially in Bardia. Birdlife is rich, with resident species joined by migrants. The downside is heat, with daytime temperatures often above 35°C, so safaris are best in the early morning and late afternoon. More in our [Chitwan](/blog/chitwan-national-park-safari-guide) and [Bardia](/blog/bardia-national-park-guide) guides.

## Haze, clouds and views

The main drawback of April compared with autumn is visibility. Dust from the plains, smoke from forest fires and agricultural burning, and increasing humidity create haze, especially at lower altitudes and in the Kathmandu Valley. Mountain views are usually clearest early in the morning, before clouds build. At higher altitudes, above about 3,500 metres, you are often above the haze, and views of the high peaks remain excellent. Photographers should plan sunrise shoots and accept that afternoons may be cloudy. If crystal-clear views are your absolute priority, October and November are better, but April's flowers, warmth and expedition atmosphere make up for it.

## What to pack for April

- Light, breathable trekking clothes for warm lower altitudes.
- A fleece and a light-to-medium down jacket for evenings and higher altitudes.
- A waterproof jacket and pack cover for afternoon showers.
- A sleeping bag rated to around -10°C for treks above 4,000 m.
- Sun hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen and lip balm.
- Insect repellent for lowlands and lower trekking areas.
- A buff or mask for dusty roads and haze in cities.
- Light clothing and plenty of water for hot days in Chitwan and Kathmandu.

See our [packing list](/blog/nepal-trekking-packing-list) for full details.

## Crowds and prices

April is busy, particularly on the Everest Base Camp and Annapurna routes, but generally less crowded than October. Lukla flights are in high demand, especially with expedition teams flying in, so book early. Hotels in Kathmandu can be busy around Nepali New Year and during Everest season. Prices are at spring high-season levels, similar to autumn. If you want quieter trails, consider early March, late May, or remote treks such as Makalu, Kanchenjunga or Tsum Valley.

## Sample April itinerary

- **Day 1:** arrive in Kathmandu.
- **Day 2:** sightseeing in Kathmandu and a day trip to Bhaktapur, ideally during Bisket Jatra.
- **Day 3:** fly or drive to Pokhara.
- **Days 4–8:** Ghorepani–Poon Hill trek through rhododendron forests.
- **Day 9:** relax in Pokhara, paragliding or boating on Phewa Lake.
- **Days 10–12:** Chitwan National Park safari.
- **Day 13:** return to Kathmandu.
- **Day 14:** departure.

For a longer trip, replace Poon Hill with Annapurna Base Camp, or spend two weeks trekking to Everest Base Camp during expedition season. Our [Nepal itinerary guide](/blog/nepal-itinerary-guide) goes into more detail.

## April vs October

April and October are Nepal's two peak seasons, and each has its strengths. October offers clearer skies, crisper views, green post-monsoon landscapes and major festivals, but colder nights at altitude and bigger crowds. April offers rhododendron blossom, warmer temperatures at altitude, Everest expedition atmosphere, excellent wildlife viewing and Nepali New Year, but more haze and afternoon cloud. Neither is better overall; choose based on your priorities. Our [Nepal in October](/blog/nepal-in-october) guide goes into more detail.

## April weather at a glance

PlaceAltitudeDay highNight lowConditionsKathmandu1,400 mAbout 28°CAbout 12°CWarm, some haze, occasional stormsPokhara820 mAbout 30°CAbout 16°CWarm, humid, afternoon showersChitwan150 mAbout 35°CAbout 20°CHot, dryNamche Bazaar3,440 mAbout 14°CAbout 1°CMild days, cool nightsEverest Base Camp area5,000 m+About 7°CAbout -8°CBright mornings, afternoon cloudGhorepani2,860 mAbout 16°CAbout 4°CRhododendrons in full bloomTypical April days start clear and bright, with the best mountain views in the early morning. Clouds tend to build around midday, sometimes bringing brief afternoon showers, hail or even light snow at high altitude, before clearing again in the evening. In the lowlands, it becomes hot, especially towards the end of the month.

## April in the Everest region

The Khumbu in April feels different from autumn. The lower trail from Lukla to Namche Bazaar winds through forests of pink and red rhododendron and white magnolia, with blossom framing views of Thamserku and Kusum Kanguru. Villages are busy with expedition logistics: yak and porter trains carry supplies for climbing teams, helicopters ferry equipment, and Namche's bakeries and gear shops are full of climbers and trekkers. Above Tengboche, the landscape becomes more alpine, and temperatures are noticeably milder than in autumn, with less biting cold at Dingboche and Lobuche. Mornings are typically bright and clear, with views of Ama Dablam, Lhotse and Everest, while clouds often roll up the valleys in the afternoon, sometimes bringing light snow.

Reaching Everest Base Camp in April is special. Instead of the empty glacier and rocks seen in autumn, you find a village of yellow, orange and red tents stretching across the moraine, with prayer flags strung between them and climbers going about their preparations. Standing below the Khumbu Icefall, you can watch climbers and Sherpas threading their way through the ice towers. Kala Patthar still offers the best view of Everest's summit, best at sunrise before the afternoon cloud.

Because expedition teams use Lukla flights and teahouses too, book early. Many lodges in Gorak Shep and Lobuche fill quickly in April. More in our [best time for Everest Base Camp](/blog/best-time-for-everest-base-camp-trek) guide.

## April in the Annapurna region

The Annapurna region is the heartland of spring blossom. On the **Ghorepani and Poon Hill** trek, the forests between Ulleri, Ghorepani and Tadapani are among the most beautiful rhododendron forests in Nepal, with trees many metres tall covered in red flowers. Sunrise from Poon Hill looks out over Dhaulagiri and Annapurna South above a sea of blossom. On the **Annapurna Base Camp** trek, the forests around Chhomrong, Sinuwa and Bamboo are in full bloom, and nights in the sanctuary are milder than in autumn, though snow can still lie on the upper trail. On the **Annapurna Circuit**, Thorong La is usually passable in April, although occasional spring snowstorms can close it for a day or two. Pokhara is warm and humid, with lively Lakeside cafés and good conditions for paragliding in the morning. More in our [Annapurna Base Camp](/blog/annapurna-base-camp-trek-guide) guide.

## Weather risks in April

Spring weather is generally reliable, but April can bring surprises. Afternoon thunderstorms, hail and occasional heavy snowfall at high altitude are more common than in autumn. Pre-monsoon storms, known locally as "nor'westers" in the lowlands, can bring strong winds and heavy rain, particularly later in the month. In the mountains, snowfall can temporarily block high passes such as Thorong La, Larkya La or the Everest Three Passes, so build flexibility into your itinerary and follow your guide's advice. Lightning is a risk on exposed ridges during storms; descend or take shelter if thunder approaches. Forest fires, often started by agricultural burning, occasionally affect trails in the middle hills, adding to haze. Finally, flights to Lukla, Jomsom and other mountain airstrips can be delayed by afternoon cloud and wind, so aim for morning flights and keep spare days in your plan.

## Climbing and adventure in April

April is an excellent month for climbing Nepal's trekking peaks. Island Peak, Mera Peak, Lobuche East and others see stable conditions and slightly warmer temperatures than in autumn, although afternoon weather can deteriorate, so summit days begin very early. Many climbers combine a peak with the Everest Base Camp trek during expedition season. For other adventures, rivers are lower and warmer than in autumn, making white-water rafting more technical and enjoyable on rivers such as the Trishuli, Bhote Koshi and Kali Gandaki. Paragliding in Pokhara has strong thermals and long flights, although views may be hazy. Mountain biking in the Kathmandu Valley and around Pokhara is pleasant in the mornings before the heat builds. See our [Island Peak](/blog/island-peak-climbing-guide), [Mera Peak](/blog/mera-peak-climbing-guide) and [mountain biking](/blog/mountain-biking-in-nepal) guides.

## April in the Kathmandu Valley

The Kathmandu Valley is warm and lively in April. Jacaranda trees begin to flower along the streets, courtyards are busy with festival preparations, and New Year celebrations bring music and crowds to public squares. Daytime temperatures are pleasant to hot, making early mornings and late afternoons the best time for exploring Durbar Squares, stupas and temples. Haze usually hides the Himalaya from the city, but the hill stations of Nagarkot, Dhulikhel and Chandragiri may offer early morning glimpses of the peaks. Evening rooftop dinners in Thamel, Patan and Boudhanath are delightful as the air cools. See our [Kathmandu](/blog/kathmandu-travel-guide) and [Nagarkot and Dhulikhel](/blog/nagarkot-and-dhulikhel-guide) guides.

## Food and seasonal produce

Spring brings fresh vegetables such as green peas, beans, cucumbers and leafy greens to markets, and the first mangoes and lychees arrive from the lowlands and India later in the season. On treks, teahouses serve dal bhat, momos, noodles and pasta, and in the Annapurna region, you might try rhododendron juice or local apple products from Marpha. For New Year, families prepare special meals and sweets, and Newari communities in the Kathmandu Valley celebrate with feasts of beaten rice, buffalo meat, lentil patties (bara), spiced potatoes and rice wine. See our [Nepali food guide](/blog/nepali-food-guide).

## Who should visit in April?

April suits a wide range of travellers. If you want to see the forests in flower, this is your month. Trekkers who dislike extreme cold appreciate the milder nights at altitude. Mountaineering enthusiasts enjoy the buzz of Everest season, and wildlife lovers find it one of the best months for safaris in the lowlands. Families with children often prefer spring for its warmth, and April school holidays in some countries fit well. However, if your priority is the clearest possible mountain panoramas, or you want to avoid heat in the lowlands, consider October, November or early March instead.

## Tips for travelling in April

- Start trekking early each day for clear views and to avoid afternoon storms.
- Book Lukla and other mountain flights early, as expedition teams also fly.
- Plan safaris for early morning and late afternoon to avoid the heat.
- Check the date of Nepali New Year and Bisket Jatra if you want to attend.
- Carry a rain jacket and pack cover for afternoon showers.
- Drink plenty of water and use sun protection in the heat.
- Build flexibility into high-pass itineraries in case of spring snow.
- Respect expedition camps at Everest Base Camp and do not enter without an invitation.

## Birdwatching in spring

Spring is a very good season for birdwatching in Nepal, which is home to more than 850 bird species. In April, forests ring with the calls of breeding birds, and many species display their brightest plumage. On treks, look out for the Himalayan monal, whose iridescent male is Nepal's national bird, as well as blood pheasants, kalij pheasants, sunbirds feeding on rhododendron nectar, laughingthrushes, minivets and redstarts. At higher altitudes, lammergeiers and Himalayan griffons soar over the valleys, and snowcocks call from the slopes. In the lowlands, Chitwan and Koshi Tappu attract hornbills, kingfishers, storks, eagles and many migratory species. Bring binoculars and a field guide, or ask your guide to point out species along the way. Early mornings are the most productive time for birding, and quieter trails such as Makalu, Kanchenjunga and Langtang offer the richest birdlife, far from the busiest routes.

## Health in the spring heat

April's warmth brings a few health considerations. In the lowlands and cities, heat and humidity can cause dehydration and heat exhaustion, so drink plenty of purified water, rest in the shade during the hottest hours and wear loose, light clothing. Mosquitoes become more active in the Terai as temperatures rise, so use repellent and cover up at dusk. Food spoils more quickly in the heat, so eat freshly cooked meals and avoid raw salads in local restaurants. At altitude, the strong sun and reflection from snow increase the risk of sunburn and snow blindness, so wear sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen.

## Is April right for you?

April is a glorious month in Nepal, with forests in full bloom, warm days, lively festivals and the buzz of Everest season. Start your days early for the best views, pack for showers and sun, and book early. Trek through rhododendrons, watch the expeditions at base camp or track rhinos in Chitwan: April has plenty going on. [Contact us](/contact-us) to plan your spring trip.

## Frequently asked questions
### Is April a good time to visit Nepal?
Yes, it is one of the best months, with warm weather, rhododendrons and good trekking.

### What is the weather like in April?
Warm in Kathmandu (about 28°C), hot in the lowlands, mild at altitude with cold nights.

### Is April good for Everest Base Camp?
Yes, and it coincides with Everest expedition season at base camp.

### When do rhododendrons bloom in Nepal?
From March to May, peaking in April at 2,000–3,500 m.

### Is there haze in April?
Yes, more than in autumn; mornings are clearest.

### Does it rain in April?
Occasional afternoon showers and storms, but it is not the monsoon.

### When is Nepali New Year?
Around **13–14 April**, celebrated with Bisket Jatra in Bhaktapur.

### Is April good for Chitwan?
Yes, one of the best months for wildlife, though it is hot.

### Is it crowded in April?
Busy on popular treks, but generally less so than October.

### What should I pack for April?
Layers, a light down jacket, a rain shell, sun protection and a sleeping bag rated to about -10°C for high treks.

### What are the best treks in April?
**Poon Hill**, **Annapurna Base Camp**, **Everest Base Camp**, **Langtang**, **Makalu** and **Kanchenjunga**.

### Can I climb a trekking peak in April?
Yes, spring is an excellent season for Island Peak, Mera Peak and others.


Web page: https://www.himalayanhiking.com/blog/nepal-in-april