May Weather in Kathmandu, Nepal

Last updated: August 31, 2025

In May, the weather in Kathmandu, Nepal transitions into a vibrant display of warmth and humidity. With maximum temperatures reaching 29°C (84°F) and an average of 20°C (68°F), the days are pleasantly warm, making it an ideal time for exploration. However, evenings can turn cooler, dropping to a minimum of 12°C (53°F). Travelers should be prepared for frequent rain, as precipitation averages 265 mm (10.4 in) over 25 days, contributing to the region's lush greenery. The humidity level sits at 46%, adding to the tropical ambiance of this bustling city, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the rich culture of Kathmandu amidst its dynamic weather.

May Temperature in Kathmandu

In May, Kathmandu, Nepal, begins to enjoy the full embrace of spring, with temperatures steadily climbing. The month opens with a minimum of 12°C (53°F), offering a mild start, while the average temperature reaches a comfortable 20°C (68°F). With daytime highs peaking at 29°C (84°F), May signals the transition towards the warmer summer months, making it a vibrant time for outdoor activities and exploring the city's rich cultural heritage. As temperatures rise, this month also marks a noticeable increase from the cooler April, reflecting a trend of warming that continues into June, where temperatures become consistently warmer.

May Weather in Kathmandu: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Kathmandu, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Kathmandu, May typically has an average temperature of {2}°C ({3}°F), with highs reaching up to {4}°C ({5}°F) and lows dropping to around {6}°C ({7}°F).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec495360656872727271665852
Data source: Temperature data for Kathmandu generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

May Precipitation in Kathmandu

In May, Kathmandu experiences a dramatic surge in precipitation, with 265 mm (10.4 in) of rainfall over 25 days, marking a significant pivot from the drier months preceding it. This wets the city's landscape, preparing it for the upcoming monsoon season. The rainfall nearly doubles the amount recorded in April, which stood at 114 mm (4.5 in), showcasing May as a transitionary month where both humidity and showers intensify. This steady buildup not only elevates overall annual rainfall figures but also indicates the onset of persistent rains in June, where totals exceed 523 mm (20.6 in). The consistent increase in rainy days from April to May highlights Kathmandu's shift towards a wetter climate, setting the stage for the lush greenery that follows.

May Precipitation Trends in Kathmandu

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Kathmandu, with values for each month alongside May’s data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how May’s conditions compare to those of other months. In Kathmandu, May typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec51566711426552310377844081161929
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in Kathmandu

As spring transitions to summer in Kathmandu, May brings a noticeable uptick in humidity levels, rising to 46%. This increase follows a dramatic drop from March's relatively dry 32% and April's low 25%, indicating a shift in the weather patterns as the monsoon season approaches. While May is relatively comfortable compared to the sweltering months ahead—June sees humidity soar to 77% and reaches an intense 92% from July to September—it is a reminder that the lush landscapes and vibrant flora of Kathmandu are soon to bloom under the embrace of higher moisture levels. As the city gears up for the rainy season, May serves as a transitional period, balancing pleasant temperatures with a hint of humidity that heralds the vibrant changes to come.

May Average Humidity in Kathmandu

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Kathmandu, with May’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In May, average humidity in Kathmandu is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec58%53%32%25%46%77%92%92%92%87%76%71%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Kathmandu

In May, Kathmandu experiences an extreme UV Index of 11, a trend that persists from April and continues into June, signaling serious sun safety considerations for residents and visitors alike. With a burn time of just 10 minutes, it's crucial to take protective measures if you plan to be outdoors. This period marks the height of UV intensity leading into summer, reinforcing the need for proper sun protection, such as sunscreen, hats, and clothing, to mitigate risks. As you navigate this beautiful city under the radiant sun, always stay informed and be prepared with the right safeguards. For more detailed information on UV levels and safety tips, visit Kathmandu UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Kathmandu for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Kathmandu in May, representing the highest UV radiation level. The UVI measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, indicating the potential risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues. In May, the maximum UV index in Kathmandu typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec5791111131413121075
Data source: Kathmandu May UVI data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

May Sunshine in Kathmandu

As May unfolds in Kathmandu, the city basks in an impressive 349 hours of sunshine, marking a peak in the spring season. This surge in daylight follows a steady climb from 241 hours in January, highlighting an upward trend in sunshine hours as the year progresses. Notably, April and May showcase the sunniest spell of the year, enchanting locals and tourists alike with vibrant blue skies and warm weather perfect for exploration. However, contrast this with the subsequent months where sunshine begins to wane, particularly in the monsoon season when June sees a drop to 314 hours. This pattern not only underscores May's allure but also hints at the changing seasons that define Kathmandu's unique climate.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Kathmandu: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Kathmandu experiences direct sunlight during the month of May, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of May with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec241h281h336h340h349h314h227h246h267h315h290h289h
Data source: Kathmandu May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Kathmandu During May

As spring transitions into summer in Kathmandu, the likelihood of sunny weather experiences a notable decline in May. While the city enjoys increasing sunshine through the earlier months, peaking at a 71% chance in April, May sees a sharp drop to just 28%. This shift marks the beginning of the pre-monsoon season, where cloud cover and potential rainfall start to dominate the horizon. Following May, the chances of sunlight dwindle even further in June, plummeting to 18%, setting the stage for the region's famous monsoons. Thus, if you're planning a visit, April's clear skies offer a much more inviting atmosphere than the variable May, so be sure to take advantage of it!

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Kathmandu

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Kathmandu throughout the year, with May highlighted. It highlights the variation in sunshine across each month and provides an overview of the typical frequency of sunny days, offering insights into how often Kathmandu experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec55%67%69%71%28%18%4%2%14%41%47%60%
Data source: Kathmandu May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Kathmandu in May

As spring transitions into summer, Kathmandu, Nepal, experiences a notable shift in daylight duration. January begins the year with a modest 10 hours of daylight, gradually extending to 13 hours by May. This increase reflects the city’s gradual embrace of longer, sunnier days, perfect for outdoor activities and cultural celebrations. The daylight remains steady at 13 hours through the summer months of June, July, and August, before slowly tapering off in September. By October, the days shrink back to 11 hours, signaling the approach of winter. This cyclical pattern showcases Kathmandu’s unique seasonal rhythm, where the elongation of daylight not only brightens the landscape but also enriches the vibrant life of its inhabitants.

Average Daylight Hours in Kathmandu for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Kathmandu throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec10h 35m11h 12m12h12h 49m13h 30m13h 51m13h 40m13h 4m12h 17m11h 28m10h 46m10h 24m
Data source: Kathmandu daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Kathmandu

In May, the winds in Kathmandu begin to soften, with an average speed dipping to 1.0 m/s (approximately 2 mph). This gentle breeze marks a transition from the mildly increasing winds of the earlier months, particularly April, which recorded the highest speed of 1.6 m/s (3 mph) for the spring season. As the city approaches the monsoon months of June and July, wind speeds remain consistently low, often hovering around 0.9 m/s (2 mph), paving the way for the stillness often felt during the peak rainy season. This gradual decline not only enhances the warm ambiance of late spring but also signals the lush greenery that the rains will soon bring to the region.

Average May Wind Speed in Kathmandu

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Kathmandu, with values for each month shown alongside May's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how May's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec1.21.11.41.61.0 m/s1.10.90.90.81.01.11.1
Data source: Kathmandu May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Kathmandu Compares to Other Months

Weather in Kathmandu varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Kathmandu, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.

In Kathmandu, May experiences significantly warmer temperatures compared to January, with daily averages reaching up to 20°C (68°F) and maximums peaking at 29°C (84°F). In contrast, January's chill brings average temperatures down to 9°C (49°F), with highs only reaching 22°C (72°F) and nighttime lows dipping as low as 0°C (32°F). Additionally, May is characterized by higher precipitation, totaling 265 mm (10.4 in) over 25 days, while January has much lighter rainfall of just 51 mm (2.0 in) across 6 days. The humidity also differs, with January being noticeably more humid at 58% compared to May's 46%. For more detailed insights, check this link: Kathmandu weather in January.

In comparing the weather between May and February, May presents a significantly warmer climate, with average temperatures peaking at 20°C (68°F) and reaching highs of 29°C (84°F). In contrast, February’s temperatures are notably cooler, averaging around 12°C (53°F) with a maximum of 23°C (73°F). Precipitation also varies greatly between the two months; May experiences much heavier rainfall at 265 mm (10.4 in) across 25 days, whereas February only sees 56 mm (2.2 in) over just 9 days. Additionally, humidity levels are higher in February at 53% compared to May's 46%, contributing to a different overall feel in the air. For more detailed information, you can check Kathmandu weather in February.

May weather is significantly warmer and more humid compared to March. With average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 12°C (53°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F), May brings more summer-like conditions, while March has cooler averages, with temperatures peaking at 27°C (81°F). Additionally, May experiences much higher precipitation, with 265 mm (10.4 in) over 25 days, compared to March’s 67 mm (2.6 in) over just 12 days. The humidity also increases in May to 46%, in contrast to March’s lower 32%. For more detailed insights on March weather, you can check Kathmandu weather in March.

In comparing the weather of April and May, we see notable differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. During April, temperatures range from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F), with an average of 19°C (66°F) and relatively low humidity at 25%. In contrast, May sees slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 12°C (53°F) and an average of 20°C (68°F), peaking again at 29°C (84°F). However, May is significantly wetter, with 265 mm (10.4 in) of precipitation over 25 days, compared to April's 114 mm (4.5 in) over 17 days. This increase in rainfall contributes to a higher humidity level in May at 46%. For more detailed insights on April's weather, you can visit Kathmandu weather in April.

In May, the weather presents a mild and somewhat variable climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 12°C (53°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F) and an average of 20°C (68°F). However, it also brings considerable rainfall, amounting to 265 mm (10.4 in) over 25 days, with a humidity level of 46%. In contrast, June sees a slight increase in temperatures, with a minimum of 15°C (59°F) and an average of 22°C (72°F), while still reaching a high of 29°C (85°F). The month is notably wetter, featuring 523 mm (20.6 in) of precipitation over 29 days and a significantly higher humidity of 77%. For more details, you can check Kathmandu weather in June.

The weather in May and July presents a stark contrast, particularly in terms of humidity and precipitation. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 12°C (53°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F), with an average of 20°C (68°F), while July offers warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 18°C (65°F) and an average of 22°C (72°F). However, July sees significantly increased rainfall, with 1037 mm (40.8 in) spread over 31 days, compared to May's 265 mm (10.4 in) over 25 days. This results in a notable rise in humidity from 46% in May to a sweltering 92% in July. For more detailed information, check out the Kathmandu weather in July.

May and August present strikingly different weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a mild minimum of 12°C (53°F) to a warm maximum of 29°C (84°F), with an average of 20°C (68°F). This month experiences a significant amount of precipitation, totaling 265 mm (10.4 in) over 25 days, accompanied by relatively low humidity of 46%. In contrast, August sees higher temperatures, with a minimum of 19°C (66°F) and a maximum of 30°C (86°F), averaging around 22°C (73°F). However, it also brings about a substantial increase in rainfall, with 784 mm (30.9 in) over 30 days and a strikingly high humidity of 92%. For a detailed overview of August conditions, you can refer to Kathmandu weather in August.

May and September in Kathmandu showcase notable contrasts in weather. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 12°C (53°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F), with an average of 20°C (68°F). The month experiences significant rainfall, with 265 mm (10.4 in) spread over 25 days and a humidity level of 46%. In contrast, September sees warmer nights with a minimum temperature of 17°C (62°F) and a similar maximum of 29°C (84°F), but the average increases to 22°C (71°F). Rainfall is more pronounced in September, totaling 408 mm (16.1 in) over 29 days, and the humidity jumps dramatically to 92%. For more detailed information, check out Kathmandu weather in September.

In May, the weather is generally warmer with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 12°C (53°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F), averaging around 20°C (68°F). However, this month also sees considerable rainfall, with 265 mm (10.4 in) over 25 days, contributing to a humidity level of 46%.

In contrast, October has cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 9°C (48°F), an average of 19°C (67°F), and a maximum that also reaches 29°C (84°F). Rainfall is significantly less at 116 mm (4.5 in) over just 16 days, but the humidity is much higher at 87%. For more detailed information on October weather in Kathmandu, check this link: Kathmandu weather in October.

May and November present contrasting weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 12°C (53°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F), with an average of 20°C (68°F). This month is characterized by high precipitation levels, receiving 265 mm (10.4 in) over 25 days, leading to a relatively low humidity of 46%. In contrast, November experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 6°C (42°F) and an average of 15°C (58°F), peaking at 27°C (81°F). It is also notably drier, with only 19 mm (0.8 in) of precipitation over 6 days and a much higher humidity of 76%. For more details on November weather, you can refer to Kathmandu weather in November.

May and December showcase contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a comfortable minimum of 12°C (53°F) to a warm maximum of 29°C (84°F), with an average of 20°C (68°F). However, this month also brings significant rainfall, with 265 mm (10.4 in) of precipitation over 25 days, contributing to a relatively low humidity of 46%. Conversely, December experiences much cooler temperatures, with minimums dropping to 2°C (35°F) and an average of only 11°C (52°F). The maximum temperature of 22°C (71°F) is accompanied by much drier conditions, as precipitation totals just 29 mm (1.1 in) spread over only 5 days. The humidity also increases in December, reaching 71%. For more detailed information, check Kathmandu weather in December.

Compare Kathmandu's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Kathmandu

As May unfolds in Kathmandu, the weather showcases a unique blend of warmth and moisture that sets it apart from the preceding months. The maximum temperatures rise significantly, creating a more tropical feel, while the average temperatures remain pleasantly mild. However, this month also witnesses a notable increase in precipitation, with rain showers becoming more frequent, contributing to the lush greenery of the region. The humidity levels elevate, adding to the overall mugginess typical of late spring. This transitional phase hints at the approaching monsoon, making May a captivating time to experience the evolving landscape. For a deeper understanding of how Kathmandu's weather shifts throughout the year, explore the detailed insights at Kathmandu Climate.