Makalu Region Weather: A Comprehensive Guide on What to Expect
The Makalu region is one of Nepal’s best trekking regions and Makalu Base Camp Trek is the major trek of this region. It is a high-altitude trek that takes trekkers from Num Village (about 1500 meters) to Makalu Base Camp (about 5100 meters). Hence, the weather in the Makalu region or during the Makalu Base Camp Trek can vary depending on elevation.
Overall Weather in Makalu Region
The Makalu region lies in the eastern part of Nepal. Here, the monsoon begins earlier (in June) and lasts longer (until late September) than in western Nepal. This is because eastern Nepal is closer to the Bay of Bengal. Lower-altitude areas are mostly warm and humid, while higher-altitude regions are mostly cold and dry. Even in the summer, higher regions will not be too hot. Weather conditions in the higher regions are unpredictable.
Spring Season (March-May)
Spring is the second-best season to embark on any high-altitude trek. It starts from early March till May in Nepal. The ideal time to trek Makalu region is spring because of the mild temperatures, clear views of mountains and skies, and stable weather. Also, this season brings forth a wide range of exotic flora and fauna for you to witness.
March
- Average temperature range: 11°C during the day and 4°C at night
- As spring has arrived, the days start to get longer and warmer.
April
- Average temperature range: 11°C during the day and 7°C at night
- April is the peak of spring.
- The days are brighter, warmer, and longer.
- Lower regions have moderate weather; however, higher places might be colder.
May
- Temperatures range from 15°C to 10°C during the day and drop to roughly 0°C at night.
- As summer approaches, the temperature begins to rise rapidly.
- There is a probability of light rain once or twice at the end of the month.
Summer Monsoon Season (June–August)
Summer and monsoons occur around the same time in Nepal, from June to August. So, during this time, the weather will be both hot and humid in the Makalu region. There will be frequent and heavy rainfall, especially in lower areas. During rainfall, the temperature drops and the sky becomes cloudy. While it’s not raining, it gets super hot and the views are clear. In the higher regions, rainfall is comparatively less frequent and lighter than in the lower regions. At day, the maximum temperature reaches 18°C, while at night it drops to 2°C.
June
- It marks the beginning of the monsoon season in Nepal.
- There is still some spring impact until the first week of June.
- Nevertheless, light rainfall begins in early June.
July
- The weather isn’t great, as the days are getting longer and hotter.
- Also, heavy rains are frequent.
August
- By mid-August, the rain and humidity somewhat subside.
- The sky begins to clear, but the monsoon hasn’t completely gone.
Autumn Season (September–November)
Autumn has the best weather for trekking in Nepal, including the Makalu Base Camp Trek. It features clear, consistent, and mild weather, much like spring. Nonetheless, autumn has more weather stability and visibility than spring. The days are sunny, but the nights are chilly. It is, however, tolerable. Even during the best season, the weather can still be unpredictable in high passes of the Makalu region such as Kauma La, Keke La, and Tutu La.
September
- Average Temperature Range: 16°C during the day and 2°C at night
- There is still some monsoon effect until late September.
October
- Average Temperature Range: 14°C during the day and 0°C at night
- It is the finest month for trekking in Nepal.
- The weather is stable, with mild temperatures and clear blue skies.
November
- Average Temperature Range: 6°C during the day and -2°C at night
- The days are often sunny, clear, and pleasant.
- As winter approaches, temperatures begin to fall gradually.
Winter Season (December–February)
Weather during winter in the Makalu region is extreme with frequent snowfalls, strong cold storms, and freezing temperatures. Temperatures are normally above zero during the day and below zero at night and early in the morning. The higher the elevation, the colder it becomes, and the more often heavier snowfalls occur. As you ascend higher, the humidity in the air decreases. Despite these extremes, winter provides clear views of mountains and landscapes.
December
- Average temperature range: 6°C during the day and -3°C at night
- The winter breezes blow away the clouds that have obscured Mt. Makalu, allowing for excellent visibility of the peak.
- Heavy snowfall begins in late December.
January
- Average temperature range: 4°C during the day and -8°C at night
- January is the coldest month of the year.
- Heavy snowfalls obstruct the trekking trails.
February
- Average temperature range: 7°C during the day and -5°C at night
- The weather is similar to that of January.
- However, February is slightly warmer than January.
