Last updated: April 14, 2025
Nepal's diverse climate ranges dramatically from the frigid winters to scorching summers, influenced by its varied geography. In Karnali Pradesh, temperatures plummet to a chilling minimum of -33°C (-28°F) in January, while Province 2 experiences sweltering highs of 43°C (110°F) in June. Precipitation patterns also showcase this variability, with Bagmati Province receiving a staggering maximum of 927 mm (36.5 in) in July, in stark contrast to Province 2's dry November, where rainfall totals zero. Humidity levels fluctuate significantly, peaking at an average of 92% in August in Province 1, contrasting sharply with the lower average of 25% found in April in Bagmati Province. This rich tapestry of climatic conditions shapes the ecological and cultural landscapes across Nepal.
Nepal's diverse geography results in a variety of climate zones, each contributing to the country's unique environmental tapestry. The subtropical highland climates, identified as Cwb and Cwa, dominate regions like Bagmati Province, Lumbini Province, and Sudurpashchim Pradesh, offering warm summers and cool, dry winters. Meanwhile, the cooler Dwc climate can be found in the rugged terrains of Karnali Pradesh alongside ET tundra climates in the high altitudes, creating stark differences in vegetation and wildlife. Notably, Province 1 and Province 4 share the Cwb, Cwa, and ET classifications, reinforcing the region's climatic diversity. In contrast, the lowland Province 2 is characterized solely by the Cwa climate, highlighting Nepal's climatic variations across its provinces.
| Climate Zone | Description |
|---|---|
| Cwa | Monsoon-influenced humid subtropical climate with dry winters and hot summers. |
| Cwb | Monsoon-influenced temperate climate with dry winters and mild summers. |
| Dwc | Monsoon-influenced subarctic climate with dry winters and cool summers. |
| ET | Tundra climate with short, cool summers and long, cold winters. |
Nepal’s temperature exhibits remarkable variations throughout the year, with extremes ranging from a bone-chilling -33°C in January in Karnali Pradesh to scorching highs of 43°C in June in Province 2. As winter retreats in February and March, temperatures begin to rise significantly, peaking in late spring with 42°C in April and May, particularly in the warmer provinces. The mercury continues to soar during the summer months, with July and August maintaining highs around 40°C. However, a gradual cool down occurs as autumn approaches, with temperatures plummeting again in November and December, where lows can hit -32°C once more. This temperature rollercoaster reflects Nepal's diverse climatic zones, showcasing both the chilly mountains and the warm lowlands.
Nepal's precipitation patterns reveal distinct seasonal variations, highlighting the interplay between geography and climate. During the wet season, particularly in July, areas like Bagmati Province experience staggering amounts of rain, with precipitation reaching up to 927 mm (36.5 in), while Province 4 sees rainfall spread over 30 days. In sharp contrast, the dry month of November presents a stark reduction, with Lumbini Province recording no rainfall days at all. This dramatic shift underscores the country's vulnerability to monsoon variability, emphasizing the need for effective water management strategies to adapt to the seasonal extremes.
In Nepal, humidity levels exhibit significant seasonal variation, reflecting the diverse climate across the regions. For instance, during April, the Bagmati Province experiences its lowest humidity at around 25%, offering a brief respite before the monsoon sets in. This drop contrasts sharply with August in Province 1, where humidity peaks at a staggering 92%, as the region is enveloped in the heavy rains synonymous with the monsoon season. Such fluctuations underscore the dynamic climatic patterns in Nepal, where dry spells give way to a sweltering, humid atmosphere, influencing both daily life and agricultural practices.
In July, Nepal experiences significant variations in UV Index (UVI) across its provinces, highlighting the diversity in environmental factors influencing UV radiation levels. For instance, Province 1 sees an average daily maximum UVI of 22, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. In contrast, Province 2 registers a notably lower average daily maximum UVI of 13. This discrepancy suggests that residents and visitors in Province 1 must take greater precautions against UV radiation, while those in Province 2 may enjoy slightly more lenient conditions, though awareness of UV exposure remains essential across all regions.
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Sunshine duration in Nepal exhibits intriguing seasonal trends, with significant variations across different provinces. For instance, Bagmati Province basks in approximately 231 hours of sunlight during the warmer month of July, while Karnali Pradesh enjoys a bright 244 hours in the cooler month of January. However, May proves to be a standout month across the nation, with Province 1 soaking up an impressive 347 hours of sunlight, and Sudurpashchim Pradesh even surpassing this with 371 hours. These patterns underscore how climate can influence sunshine exposure, offering distinct advantages depending on the time and place within this diverse country.
In Nepal, the likelihood of experiencing sunny weather varies significantly across different regions and times of the year. For instance, Bagmati Province sees a mere 3% chance of sunny days in August, highlighting a period where cloudy and monsoon conditions prevail, while Province 2 enjoys a much sunnier February, boasting an impressive 88% likelihood of clear skies. This striking contrast illustrates how the diverse climatic patterns across Nepal can greatly influence outdoor plans, making certain provinces much more favorable for sunshine seekers during specific months.
In Sudurpashchim Pradesh, the variation in daylight hours throughout the year is quite striking. In December, the region experiences about 10 hours of daylight, creating shorter, cozy days often perfect for indoor activities and cultural festivities. Conversely, in June, daylight stretches to an impressive 13 hours, inviting outdoor adventures and the beauty of nature during the lush monsoon season. This seasonal shift not only influences daily routines but also reflects the richer tapestry of life in this vibrant region of Nepal.
Nestled in the heart of Nepal, Bagmati Province experiences a diverse climate characterized by wide-ranging temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. In the winter months of January and December, temperatures can drop as low as -20°C (-5°F), while summer sees averages around 22°C (72°F), peaking at 36°C (97°F) in April and May. The monsoon season, from June to August, brings heavy rainfall, with July alone receiving 927 mm (36.5 inches), creating a lush, green landscape. Humidity levels fluctuate dramatically, soaring to 92% during the height of summer, which adds to the tropical feel of this region. For more detailed insights, visit Bagmati Province climate.
Karnali Pradesh, Nepal, experiences a remarkable range of temperatures, with January's chilling lows reaching -33°C (-28°F) and summer peaks soaring to 38°C (100°F) in April and May. The region sees a significant uptick in precipitation, particularly during the monsoon months of July and August, when rainfall can exceed 450 mm (17.7 in), causing humidity to climb to a muggy 89%. This dynamic climate not only shapes the local ecosystem but also influences the rhythms of life for its inhabitants. For more detailed insights into the unique weather patterns of this stunning region, explore Karnali Pradesh climate.
Lumbini Province, Nepal, experiences a diverse climate characterized by a wide range of temperatures and substantial seasonal rainfall. Winters are mild, with January averaging around 13°C (55°F) and minimal precipitation, while summers are marked by heat, peaking in June and July, with temperatures soaring above 40°C (104°F) and heavy rainfall that can reach up to 526 mm (20.7 in). The province's high humidity levels, particularly in July and August, add to the tropical atmosphere, making it a unique destination for travelers. As the seasons transition, the climate offers a refreshing change, inviting visitors to explore the serene landscapes and cultural heritage of this remarkable region. For more details on the climate conditions, visit Lumbini Province climate.
Nestled in the eastern part of Nepal, Province 1 experiences a remarkable spectrum of temperatures throughout the year, with January chilling down to -33°C (-27°F) and soaring to a sizzling 41°C (106°F) in April. This province is characterized by a distinct rainy season, particularly during the monsoon months from June to August, where rainfall can reach an impressive 658 mm (25.9 in) in July, contributing to a humidity level that often hovers around 92%. Conversely, the drier months of December and January see significantly lower humidity and relatively sparse rainfall, making the climate diverse and dynamic. For a deeper dive into the climatic variations and patterns in this unique region, visit the detailed overview at Province 1 climate.
Province 2 in Nepal experiences a dynamic climate throughout the year, with January starting off cool and dry, characterized by average temperatures around 15°C (60°F). As spring arrives, the warmth intensifies; April and May see average highs reaching up to 30°C (86°F), with increasing rainfall peaking in summer months like July, where 484 mm of rain falls. The monsoon season brings a surge in humidity, soaring to an astonishing 92% in both July and August, making the atmosphere feel heavy. By fall, temperatures drop again, creating a more moderate and pleasant climate, perfect for exploring the rich culture and landscapes of the region. For more detailed insights, check out Province 2 climate.
The climate of Province 4, Nepal, showcases a remarkable transformation across the year, with temperatures ranging from a chilling -27°C (-16°F) in December to a warm 34°C (94°F) in April and May. Precipitation peaks dramatically in the summer months, particularly in July, with a staggering 881 mm (34.7 in), giving the region a lush, vibrant landscape. Humidity levels also soar during this period, hitting 90% in August, creating a tropical ambiance amidst the Himalayan backdrop. As the seasons shift, drier months like November and December bring crisp air, making it a captivating place to experience diverse weather. To explore more about the intricacies of this region's climate, visit Province 4 climate.
Sudurpashchim Pradesh, Nepal, boasts a diverse climate characterized by varied temperatures and precipitation throughout the year. Winter months like January see minimum temperatures dip to a chilly -8°C (17°F), while summer months can soar, with May and June peaking at a sizzling 41°C (106°F). Rainfall significantly intensifies from June, peaking in July with a staggering 508 mm (20.0 in), creating a lush, vibrant landscape. Humidity levels fluctuate greatly, soaring to 89% in August, which adds to the region's tropical essence. For a deeper dive into the seasonal shifts and weather patterns, explore the detailed Sudurpashchim Pradesh climate.
The climate of Nepal showcases remarkable extremes and seasonal variations, highlighting the country's diverse geography. In the frigid reaches of Karnali Pradesh, temperatures can plummet to an astonishing -33°C (-28°F) in January, while the hotter plains of Province 2 can soar to a sweltering 43°C (110°F) in June. Seasonal rainfall further illustrates this diversity; while Bagmati Province drenches under an impressive maximum of 927 mm (36.5 in) in July, Province 2 experiences a stark dry spell with minimal precipitation in November. Humidity levels also shift dramatically, with Bagmati Province recording a comfortable average low of 25% in April, contrasted sharply by the oppressive 92% humidity often felt in Province 1 during the height of August. These climate patterns not only reflect the stark contrasts across regions but also shape the lifestyles and ecosystems throughout Nepal, making it a fascinating study in meteorological extremes.