5 reasons why Nepal is better in winter (December to February)

If there’s one way to describe Nepal, it’s ‘the best of nature, culture, and adventure’. Nepal, the small Himalayan country sandwiched between India and China, offers the best of treks, tours, adventures, jungle safaris, and many other exciting activities. Often called a trekker’s paradise, and the gem of tours, this incredibly beautiful Nepal is host to world-renowned trekking routes, panoramic sunrise, and sunset Himalayan views, delicious cuisines, and vibrant festivals. But it’s plenty more just than natural beauty, beyond the beauties, the rich history, stories of Kings and palaces, there is no such as bad time to visit Nepal. In Nepal, there is something in the winter that makes it especially inviting, magical and happening. The five reasons are as follows:

1. Perfect time to take natural hotspring (Tatopani) bath along trekking routes

Even frequent traveler has less information about natural hot springs in Nepal. Even though it is less known, there are quite a few hot springs naturally built around Nepal. And when would be the best time to relax on natural saunas taking a dip on hot springs other than during winter? During nearly negative temperatures, getting into warm water is a heavenly feeling and it becomes ultimate relaxation when you need some rest tired of walking up and down the trekking routes. Famous natural hot springs in Nepal are:

• Tatopani near Friendship bridge across Nepal-China border at end of Araniko Highway
• Hot spring at Beni Bazar in Myagdi district
• Jhinu Danda at Annapurna region
• Syabrubesi and Chilime in Rasuwa, North of Kathmandu
• Jomsom and Dhima in Mustang

2. Fill up your tummy with hot Tibetan buttermilk, locally brewed apple brandy, and beer

Nothing satisfies more than hot Tibetan buttermilk at cold temperatures in the Himalayan region. Served mostly at Everest and another northern part of the country, it is one of the must-try drinks while you are trekking in Nepal.

On the other hand, what would be more sizzling than taking a sip (okay a peg or more) of locally brewed apple brandy at Marpha, a village development committee at Mustang district?  Also known as apple city, the apples here are so delicious that if they had dropped on Newton, he would instantly take a bite. So, the brandy and beer brewed from sweet apples are best to taste especially during the winter season.

3. Major cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara, and others lit up during Christmas and New Year

Do you know why the sun sets early during winter? So that beautiful lights can lit up Christmas and people can celebrate the New Year with a flash. The streets, restaurants, hotels, pubs, and most of the shopping malls are decorated with lights; tourists enjoy the nightlife at major streets (Thamel in Kathmandu) and (Lakeside at Pokhara) during New Year. Enjoy live programs, music, and shopping, strolling the city markets and you will feel like you are a star, twinkle twinkling at the road, café, or bar.

4. Sightseeing around and sunrise/sunset views becomes more romantic

Either it is UNESCO world heritage sightseeing at Kathmandu, sunrise views from Nagarkot, Sarangkot, or Poonhill, you will feel more romantic. At Phulchowki near Kathmandu and little higher altitudes, enjoy snowfall and snow-topped houses and monasteries become even prettier. Therefore, while visiting Nepal during winter, you will feel warmer from inside, even though it’s cold outside.

5. It is a beautiful feeling like you just found a place to be yourself

It is a known fact that Nepal attracts nearly a million tourists each year, but in the cold season, we see only a few. The popular trekking trails get less crowded, you don’t have to worry about Housefull hotels and can capture an excellent picture of yourself with the Himalayas as long as you want. The trip packages also get slightly less expensive than in high season. So, moreover, you will feel like this place is just made for you. Don’t miss that feeling!