Trekking in Nepal in March 2024

As the winter chill fades away, spring brings warmer temperatures. Trees start to sprout new leaves, and fields are adorned with vibrant flowers, creating picturesque landscapes. The rhododendron; the national flower of Nepal, starts its fiery blooms, crafting a mosaic amalgamating with the icy blue of the Himalayas.

March generates a perfect balance of imagination, expectation, and reaction from trekkers and travelers alike. Experience this tranquility in the country nestled amidst the Himalayas in March 2024.

Weather in Nepal in March

March marks the end of a frosty and dull winter and the beginning of spring when everyone’s full of life, and the weather is mild and pleasant. The nippy breeze during early mornings and nights and warm temperate weather during the daytime typify the month of March in Nepal. If you are thinking of a visit during March, it's important to pack layers to accommodate temperature changes.

So, what's the scenery like?

Let me tell you, what you see in pictures when you search for Nepal is exactly what you’ll see during your tours and treks in March. And you may ask, “Can Nepal get more picturesque than that?” Oh yes, but at the cost of a swarm of trekkers and travelers when the costs go sky high, and the added services become a thing of the past. In March, you'll have more space to enjoy the serenity of the mountains and get a more authentic experience.

The scenery is usually clear, offering stunning views of the Himalayas and the surrounding landscapes. The rhododendron forests start to bloom during this time, adding vibrant colors to the scenery. 

Celebrate Holi, Ghode Jatra, and Chaite Dashain

March - a festive month to immerse yourself in the Nepalese culture. The festival of colors; Holi, is a highlight of March. The vibrant and joyous Hindu festival marks the victory of good over evil and the arrival of spring. It is celebrated by playing with color and water, while we sing, dance, and enjoy festive treats like Malpua and Bhang Lassi and Laddu.

Ghode Jatra is a horse festival native to Kathmandu, hosted at Tundikhel every late March/early April. Ghode Jatra is one of the most stunning events hosted there. The major event is horse racing, a tradition that dates back centuries to a king who commanded horses to speed across the field and trample the spirit of a local demon into the ground. Various horse events, acrobatics, and parachuting are also showcased during this event.

Chaite Dashain is a celebration of Lord Rama's victory over Ravana. The festival lasts for two days. The first day is Ram Navami, while the second day is Dashami. Devotees visit various temples to pay homage and pray to Lord Rama. Janaki Temple is usually filled with pilgrims from all around the country and India. The following day is celebrated as the Dashami or Chaite Dashain. Throughout the day, they enjoy various delicacies and dishes.

Best Treks in Nepal during March

Everest Base Camp Trek

• Behold the sight of Earth’s tallest mountain at an elevation of 8,848.86 meters (29,031 ft) above sea level.
• Capture the sunrise from Kala Patthar (5,545 meters) as the sun bursts upon numerous colossal peaks such as Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Nuptse, Pumori, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku.
• Experience the world’s most thrilling flight, an adventure that begins even before you set foot on the ground.
• Immerse yourself in the evergreen culture, tradition, and history of the Sherpa community.
• Renowned places like Lukla and Namche Bazaar are en route to Everest Base Camp.

Annapurna Base Camp Trek

• Trek in the foothills of Annapurna, the 10th tallest mountain in the world, at 8,091 meters (26,545 ft) above sea level.
• Mesmerizing waterfalls, glistering peaks, ever-smiling people, and fiery rhododendrons make the journey special during March.
• The Annapurna Base Camp trek in March promises breathtaking mountain panoramas, featuring majestic peaks such as Dhaulagiri (8,167m), Manaslu (8,163m), Nilgiri (7,041m), Fishtail (6,998m), and the iconic Annapurna (8,091m).
• March offers the natural hot springs of Jhinu Danda, free from hustle and bustle.

Manaslu Circuit Trek

• The trek offers stunning views of gigantic peaks, including Mount Manaslu itself, the eighth-highest mountain in the world at 8,163 meters (26,781 feet). Other notable peaks visible along the trek include Mt. Annapurna 8,091 meters (26,545 feet), the 10th highest mountain; Mt. Dhaulagiri 8,167 meters (26,795 feet), the 7th highest mountain; Mt. Hiunchuli 6,441 meters (21,132 feet); and Ganesh Himal 7,422 meters (24,350 feet).
• The Manaslu Circuit Trek takes you through remote and relatively untouched landscapes, especially in the month of March when the trek just starts to attract some visitors after a harsh cold winter.
• You'll trek through pristine forests of wildflowers, serene alpine meadows, and tale-like mountain villages, offering a genuine sense of wilderness and solitude.
• The highlight of the trek is crossing the Larkya La Pass, the highest point of the trek at an elevation of 5,106 meters (16,752 feet). The pass offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. Try to observe the unique flora and fauna found in the Manaslu region throughout the journey.

Langtang Valley Trek

• While the mountains remain unfazed by the weather, the snow-topped hills of Langtang Valley start to shine like emeralds during the last few weeks of March. We trek alongside the lofty Langtang Lirung 7,234 m (23,734 ft), Langtang Ri 7,205 m (23,638 ft), and Dorje Lakpa 6,966 m (22,854 ft).
• March brings sunny and longer days that bring out wildlife in the sun, increasing our chance to get a glimpse of exotic species like the Himalayan Black Bears, Himalayan Tahr, Langur Monkeys, Red Pandas, and many more.
• Look forward to trekking through the forests of rhododendrons, oak, and pine trees, especially during the spring season when the hillsides come alive with vibrant blooms.
• The trail goes through picturesque villages, where you will interact with the Tamang and Sherpa people. Visit the ancient monastery and stupas, and try to immerse yourself in Buddhist Tibetan culture and tradition.

Makalu Base Camp Trek

• The Makalu Base Camp Trek is a remote route that encompasses some of the best that Nepal has to offer - quiet trails, vibrant terraced farmland, rural cultures, rhododendron forests, rare wildlife, and several 8,000-meter-plus peaks.
• The fifth-highest mountain in the world, Mount Makalu, lies at an elevation of 8463 meters (27766 feet). It is situated in the Makalu Barun National Park, which covers an area of 1550 sq. km. and a buffer zone of 830 sq. km., extending around the Sankhuwasabha and Solukhumbu districts of Nepal. The panorama of the highest mountains in the world, such as Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse, Mount Makalu, and Mount Chamlang, greets you.
• From tropical forests along the Arun River to icy mountain summits and spectacular views of the rarely seen Kangshung face of Everest, as well as Lhotse, Chamlang, and Kanchenjunga in the far east, this trail is truly a hidden gem among all the trails in Nepal.
• The park boasts 56 rare or endangered plants and 16 endangered bird species, including the Blyth's Kingfisher and the Sultan Tit. Your trek might reveal a glimpse of these precious creatures.

Accommodation during treks in March

March marks the start of the prime spring season, so the crowds are yet to come. You can enjoy the beginning of the trekking season in solitude and tranquility. You won't have to struggle to acquire your preferred lodging and rooms, nor do you have to wait in long queues for meals or take hours and hours to find the perfect angles to view mountain peaks.

General topics you should know about high altitude treks in Nepal.

1. Altitude Acclimatization
2. Required Permits
3. Gears and Equipment

Altitude Acclimatization

Acclimatization is the process of your body adjusting to a new environment, usually when there is a significant change in altitude. When you ascend to a higher altitude, the air pressure decreases, leading to a decrease in the partial pressure of oxygen. This means that there is less oxygen available for your body to take in with each breath. The secret to safe acclimatization is to “climb high and sleep low.”

Other useful tips for safe acclimatization:

• Ascend gradually
• Rest and take breaks
• Stay Hydrated
• Avoid alcohol and caffeine
• Listen to your body

Required Permits

• Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) Card
• Conservation and National Park Permits
• Restricted Area Permits (RAPs)
• Municipality Permits

Gears and Equipment

Here's a complete list of Gear and Equipment required for trekking in Nepal.

Clothing

• Moisture-wicking base layers (Top and Bottom)
• Insulating layers (Fleece or Down Jacket)
• Waterproof and windproof outer shell jacket and pants
• Trekking pants and shorts
• Long-sleeve shirts and T-shirts
• Thermal gloves and waterproof gloves
• Beanies and Sun Hat
• Hiking socks and liner socks
• Gaiters (Leg)
• Scarfs and Balaclavas

Footwear

• Well fitted Hiking Boots with Ankle support
• Casual Shoes and Sandals

Equipment 

• Backpack (40-50 liters) with rain cover.
• Sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures (Optional)
• Trekking poles
• Headlamp with extra batteries
• Sunglasses with UV protection
• Water bottles or hydration system
• Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap, etc.)

Creams and Medications

• Tinted Sunscreen SPF 50 and above.
• Moisturizer
• Lip Balm
• Healing Ointment
• Cough Syrup
• Medication for your Allergies
• Blister Kit

Miscellaneous

• Waterproof cover for your backpack
• Energy Bars and Trial Mix
• Quick-dry towel
• Personal identification and necessary permits
• Money (cash) in small denominations
• Passport-size photos for permits
• Power bank or extra batteries
• Wet Wipes
• Pee bottle / Pee funnel for women
• Pillow Case

Remember, this list may vary based on personal preferences and the weather conditions of March when you undertake the trek. Ensure that your gear is of good quality and suits the specific conditions of your trekking region.

To sum up,

March marks the onset of the prime spring season. Forests of wildflowers start to bud, the sky has minimal cloud coverage, and the majestic mountains peak through rhododendron blossom grooves. Make sure to make good use of the opportunity that March brings to savor the early days of the trekking season in serenity.