Trekking Nepal in March: The Complete Spring Season Guide

March marks the true beginning of spring in Nepal, and with it comes one of the most visually spectacular trekking months of the year. As the Himalayan winter loosens its grip, rhododendron forests erupt into cascading blooms of crimson, pink, and white across mid-altitude hillsides, creating a living canvas that transforms the trekking experience. Temperatures rise steadily, trails clear of winter snow at moderate elevations, and the mountains reveal themselves through increasingly clear skies.

March occupies a compelling middle ground in Nepal's trekking calendar. It lacks the extreme crowds of the October/November peak season, avoids the bitter cold of December through February, and delivers genuinely excellent conditions across most major trekking regions. For trekkers who appreciate wildflower spectacles, comfortable temperatures, moderate crowds, and shoulder-season pricing, March represents one of the year's best value propositions.

This comprehensive guide covers detailed weather data across altitude zones and regions, the iconic rhododendron bloom season, trail and snow conditions, region-specific recommendations, the Holi festival and its impact on trekking logistics, packing advice for March's variable weather, comparisons with neighboring spring months, and practical planning tips to help you make the most of a March trek in Nepal.

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Why March Is an Excellent Month for Trekking Nepal

March consistently ranks among the top four trekking months in Nepal (alongside October, November, and April), and several converging factors make it a standout choice for discerning trekkers.

1. The Rhododendron Bloom: Nepal's Most Spectacular Natural Display

Nepal is home to over 30 species of rhododendron, and March triggers the most dramatic flowering event in the Himalayas. Between 2,500m and 4,000m elevation, entire hillsides transform into vibrant walls of color. The blooms typically begin in lower elevations in early March and progress upward through the month and into April.

Where to See the Best Blooms:

• Ghorepani-Poon Hill corridor (2,800-3,200m): Dense forests of Rhododendron arboreum
• Annapurna Base Camp trail through Deurali (3,000-3,200m): Tunnel-like rhododendron forests
• Langtang Valley lower sections (2,500-3,200m): Mixed forests with spectacular color
• Helambu region (2,500-3,600m): Less visited but equally stunning
• Gokyo trail via Phortse (3,400-3,800m): High-altitude blooms in late March

Photography Impact: March delivers Nepal's most colorful trekking photography. The combination of blooming rhododendrons in the foreground with snow-capped peaks behind creates images that define Himalayan spring.

2. Warming Temperatures and Comfortable Trekking

After months of winter cold, March brings a welcome warming trend. Daytime temperatures at mid-elevations reach comfortable levels for sustained hiking, while nights remain cool but manageable with standard cold-weather gear. This temperature balance means less heavy clothing to carry and more enjoyable hours on the trail.

Practical Benefit: You can trek in a base layer and light fleece during the day at moderate altitudes, significantly reducing pack weight compared to winter months.

3. Moderate Crowds: The Sweet Spot

March attracts roughly 40-60% of October's peak-season crowds. This translates to available teahouse rooms without advance booking on most routes, shorter queues on popular viewpoints, more personal interactions with lodge owners, and a quieter trail experience. However, you still benefit from full infrastructure operation and a social trekking community.

4. Improving Visibility Through the Month

Early March can carry some winter haze and occasional cloud buildup, but as the month progresses, atmospheric conditions steadily improve. By late March, visibility approaches the clarity of the autumn peak season, with mountain panoramas sharpening daily.

5. Shoulder-Season Value

Trekking agencies, lodges, and domestic flights typically price 15-25% below peak season rates in March. Guide and porter rates are more negotiable, and last-minute bookings are generally possible on all but the most popular routes.

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March Weather Breakdown: Detailed Conditions by Altitude

Understanding how March conditions vary by elevation is essential for preparation and route selection. March weather is characterized by warming temperatures, occasional pre-monsoon showers (more common late in the month), and variable conditions at high altitude.

Kathmandu Valley and Lower Elevations (1,000-2,500m)

Representative Locations: Kathmandu (1,400m), Pokhara (820m), Lukla (2,860m), Besisahar (760m), Syabrubesi (1,550m)

Daytime Temperatures: 18-25°C (64-77°F) Nighttime Temperatures: 8-14°C (46-57°F) Precipitation: Low to moderate (25-45mm monthly) Humidity: Increasing from winter lows

What This Means:

• Kathmandu and Pokhara are warm and pleasant, with spring flowers appearing in gardens
• Lower trail sections can feel warm during midday, especially on exposed south-facing slopes
• Light clothing sufficient during the day; a fleece or light jacket for evenings
• Occasional brief afternoon showers possible, especially late March
• Dust can be an issue on lower road sections before monsoon rains wash the air clean

Mid Elevations (2,500-3,500m)

Representative Locations: Namche Bazaar (3,440m), Ghorepani (2,870m), Manang (3,540m), Kyanjin Gompa (3,870m), Samagaon (3,530m)

Daytime Temperatures: 8-15°C (46-59°F) Nighttime Temperatures: -2 to 5°C (28-41°F) Precipitation: Low (15-30mm monthly) Conditions: This is the rhododendron zone. Comfortable trekking temperatures, cool evenings, occasional frost at higher end.

What This Means:

• Ideal trekking temperatures during the day with layering flexibility
• Evenings require warm fleece and down jacket, especially in unheated lodge rooms
• Sleeping bags rated to -10°C recommended for comfort
• Rhododendron forests in full bloom create stunning trail environments
• Morning frost common but melts quickly once sun hits

High Elevations (3,500-5,000m)

Representative Locations: Dingboche (4,410m), Lobuche (4,940m), Machhapuchhre Base Camp (3,700m), Thorong High Camp (4,925m), Gokyo (4,790m)

Daytime Temperatures: 2-10°C (36-50°F) Nighttime Temperatures: -8 to -2°C (18-28°F) Precipitation: Low (15-25mm, may fall as snow) Conditions: Cold but warming compared to winter. Snow possible, especially early March.

What This Means:

• Full cold-weather layering system required: base layers, insulating mid-layer, down jacket
• Mornings very cold until sun hits camp; afternoons can be pleasant in direct sunlight
• Sleeping bags rated to -15°C recommended
• Snow on trails possible, particularly early March and on north-facing slopes
• Wind chill significant at exposed elevations
• Acclimatization essential as always; see our altitude sickness guide

Extreme High Elevations (5,000m+)

Representative Locations: Gorak Shep (5,164m), Kala Patthar (5,643m), Thorong La Pass (5,416m), Larkya La Pass (5,160m)

Daytime Temperatures: -3 to 5°C (27-41°F) Nighttime Temperatures: -15 to -8°C (5-18°F) Precipitation: Low (10-20mm, falls as snow) Conditions: Winter-like conditions persisting. Cold throughout, very cold nights, potential for snow and ice on passes.

What This Means:

• Full expedition-grade cold-weather gear: insulated down jacket, expedition gloves, balaclava
• Sleeping bags rated to -20°C essential for comfort
• Water bottles freeze overnight; keep inside sleeping bag
• High passes may have snow requiring careful navigation; microspikes or light crampons advisable
• March conditions at extreme altitude are notably colder than October but warmer than December-February
• Early March passes are riskier than late March; conditions improve steadily through the month

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March Weather by Region: Regional Variations

Each major trekking region experiences March differently due to geography, altitude profiles, and microclimate effects.

Everest Region (Khumbu)

Overall Rating: Good to Very Good ★★★★

March Conditions:

• Visibility: Good, improving to very good by late March
• Precipitation: Low (15-25mm monthly)
• Temperature Range: Lukla 10-14°C days, Namche 6-10°C days, Gorak Shep -1 to 4°C days
• Night Temperatures: Lukla 1-5°C, Namche -3 to 1°C, Gorak Shep -14 to -8°C
• Crowd Level: Moderate (40-50% of October peak)
• Trail Conditions: Lower trails clear, some snow above 4,500m early March
• Pass Accessibility: Cho La and Renjo La may have snow; passable with care

Best Routes in March:

• Everest Base Camp -- Excellent conditions, far fewer crowds than autumn
• Gokyo Lakes -- Stunning but colder; late March preferable
• Everest View Trek -- Short trek with comfortable temperatures
• Three Passes -- Possible late March; passes may have snow early in month

Key Consideration: The Khumbu region is colder than Annapurna at equivalent altitudes due to higher average elevation. Early March EBC treks will be cold at Gorak Shep, but by late March, conditions are very manageable.

Annapurna Region

Overall Rating: Excellent ★★★★★

March Conditions:

• Visibility: Good to excellent, clearer in late March
• Precipitation: Low to moderate (20-40mm monthly)
• Temperature Range: Ghorepani 12-16°C days, MBC 4-10°C days, ABC 2-8°C days
• Night Temperatures: Ghorepani 2-6°C, MBC -4 to 0°C, ABC -8 to -3°C
• Crowd Level: Moderate (50-60% of October peak on popular routes)
• Trail Conditions: Excellent on lower routes; some snow near Thorong La
• Rhododendron Status: Peak bloom on Ghorepani-Poon Hill corridor

Best Routes in March:

• Annapurna Base Camp -- Excellent choice; rhododendron forests in full bloom along the trail
• Poon Hill -- Perhaps the single best March trek in Nepal; short, accessible, and the rhododendron bloom is breathtaking
• Mardi Himal -- Beautiful spring conditions, fewer trekkers
• Khopra Ridge -- Off-beaten path through stunning spring forests

Why Annapurna Excels in March: The Annapurna region's mid-altitude profile (most trekking between 1,500-4,200m) sits perfectly in the rhododendron zone. The ABC trail in particular passes through some of the densest rhododendron forests in Nepal, making March the single most visually spectacular month for this trek.

Langtang Region

Overall Rating: Very Good ★★★★

March Conditions:

• Visibility: Good, improving through the month
• Precipitation: Low to moderate (20-35mm monthly)
• Temperature Range: Lama Hotel 10-14°C days, Kyanjin 5-10°C days
• Night Temperatures: Lama Hotel 0-4°C, Kyanjin -5 to 0°C
• Crowd Level: Low to moderate (30-40% of peak)
• Trail Conditions: Good on main valley route; Laurebina La to Gosainkunda may have snow
• Rhododendron Status: Blooming in lower valley (2,500-3,200m)

Best Routes in March:

• Langtang Valley -- Excellent spring option with far fewer crowds than Annapurna or Everest
• Tamang Heritage Trail -- Cultural route through spring landscapes
• Gosainkunda -- Late March only; earlier may have snow on approach

Why Langtang Works in March: Proximity to Kathmandu (no flights needed), moderate altitude, fewer crowds, and spring blooms in the lower valley make Langtang an excellent March choice, especially for trekkers with limited time.

Manaslu Region

Overall Rating: Good ★★★★

March Conditions:

• Visibility: Good to very good
• Precipitation: Low (15-30mm monthly)
• Temperature Range: Samagaon 6-12°C days, Samdo 4-9°C days
• Night Temperatures: Samagaon -3 to 2°C, Samdo -8 to -2°C
• Crowd Level: Low (20-30% of autumn peak)
• Trail Conditions: Lower sections clear; Larkya La (5,160m) may have significant snow in early March
• Pass Accessibility: Larkya La typically passable from mid-March onward with experienced guide

Best Routes in March:

• Manaslu Circuit -- Possible from mid-March; check Larkya La conditions with agency before departing

Key Consideration: The Manaslu Circuit's high point, Larkya La Pass at 5,160m, can retain significant snow through early March. Late March crossings are much more reliable. A mandatory guide (required for restricted area permits) will have current pass intelligence.

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Trail Conditions in March: What to Expect on the Ground

Rhododendron Forest Trails (2,500-3,500m)

March is when Nepal's mid-altitude forests come alive. The trail experience through these zones is unlike any other month:

• Rhododendron arboreum (Nepal's national flower): Crimson blooms dominate lower forests (2,000-2,800m)
• Rhododendron campanulatum: Pink and lavender blooms at higher elevations (3,000-3,800m)
• Rhododendron barbatum: Intense red flowers along many popular trails
• Mixed spring wildflowers: Magnolia, primula, orchids, and wild iris appear alongside rhododendrons

The bloom typically progresses from lower to higher elevations through March, meaning:

• Early March: Best blooms at 2,000-2,800m
• Mid March: Spectacular displays at 2,500-3,200m
• Late March: Blooms reaching 3,000-3,800m

Lower Trail Conditions (below 2,500m)

• Trails are generally dry but may have muddy sections from occasional pre-monsoon showers
• River crossings at low elevation are low-flow and easy
• Dust on vehicle roads can be an issue (Annapurna Circuit's lower sections, Manaslu approach roads)
• Leeches are NOT an issue in March (they emerge during monsoon, June-September)

Mid-Altitude Trail Conditions (2,500-4,000m)

• Most trails well-established and clear of snow by mid-March
• North-facing slopes may retain patches of snow and ice, requiring careful footwork
• Morning frost common, making early-morning trail sections slippery until sun hits
• Mud possible on shaded sections where snow is melting

High-Altitude Trail Conditions (above 4,000m)

• Snow coverage variable depending on winter snowfall accumulation
• Popular high-altitude trails (EBC route, ABC route) are typically well-trodden and passable
• High passes (Thorong La, Larkya La, Cho La, Renjo La) may have significant snow in early March
• Microspikes or light crampons advisable for pass crossings
• Trail markers may be obscured by snow; experienced guide recommended for pass crossings in early March

Snow Conditions on Major Passes

| Pass | Altitude | Early March | Mid March | Late March | |------|----------|-------------|-----------|------------| | Thorong La | 5,416m | Often snow-covered, passable with guide | Clearing, good conditions | Usually clear, excellent | | Larkya La | 5,160m | May be difficult, deep snow possible | Improving, most groups cross | Good conditions | | Cho La | 5,420m | Snow likely, potentially impassable | Variable, check conditions | Usually passable | | Renjo La | 5,360m | Snow likely, steep sections icy | Improving | Good with care | | Kongma La | 5,535m | Often impassable | Variable | Possible with experience |

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Crowd Levels: The March Advantage

One of March's strongest selling points is its moderate crowd levels. Here is how March compares to the busiest months:

Relative Crowd Levels (100 = October Peak)

| Time Period | Crowd Level | Booking Difficulty | |-------------|-------------|-------------------| | October peak | 100% | Very difficult without advance booking | | November | 80-90% | Advance booking recommended | | Late March | 50-60% | Generally available, popular routes book up | | Mid March | 40-50% | Good availability most routes | | Early March | 35-45% | Easy availability | | December-February | 15-30% | Walk-up trekking possible everywhere |

What Moderate Crowds Mean in Practice

Popular Routes (EBC, ABC, Poon Hill):

• Teahouse rooms available without advance booking (though booking remains wise for popular stops like Namche, Ghorepani)
• Shorter waits at checkpoints and permit offices
• More personal attention from lodge owners
• Trail does not feel empty; you will see other trekkers daily
• Photography opportunities without crowds in frame

Less Popular Routes (Langtang, Manaslu, Mardi Himal):

• Very few other trekkers; near-solitude conditions possible
• Lodge owners genuinely happy to see guests
• More authentic cultural interactions
• Some remote lodges may have limited menu options due to fewer guests

March Crowd Progression

• Early March (1-10): Quiet. Winter trekkers finishing, spring trekkers just beginning. Some trails feel almost deserted.
• Mid March (11-20): Picking up. Holi festival brings domestic tourists briefly. International spring trekkers arriving.
• Late March (21-31): Moderate and building. Best balance of good weather and reasonable crowds. Trails feel lively but not crowded.

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Holi Festival: Timing and Impact on Trekking

Holi, the Hindu festival of colors, typically falls in mid-March (the exact date varies by lunar calendar). In 2026, Holi falls on March 17. This vibrant celebration has specific implications for trekkers.

What is Holi?

Holi is one of Nepal's most joyous festivals, celebrating the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil. Participants throw colored powder (abir) and water at each other in exuberant street celebrations. The festival is particularly vibrant in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and the Terai lowlands.

How Holi Affects Trekking

In Cities (Kathmandu, Pokhara):

• Major street celebrations with colored powder and water throwing
• Some shops and restaurants close for the day
• Transportation may be limited (tourist buses may not run on Holi day)
• Thamel area in Kathmandu can be chaotic with powder-throwing revelers
• Domestic flights generally operate normally, though some delays possible

On Trekking Trails:

• Impact is minimal above 2,000m elevation
• Small village celebrations happen but are generally respectful of trekkers
• Tea house operations continue normally
• You may see colorful tikkas on locals' foreheads and enjoy festive atmosphere in villages
• No trail closures or service interruptions

Planning Around Holi:

• If arriving or departing Kathmandu/Pokhara on Holi day, allow extra time for transportation disruptions
• Consider experiencing Holi in the city before or after your trek -- it is a remarkable cultural event
• Keep valuables secured if walking through city celebrations (the atmosphere is joyful but chaotic)
• Wear clothes you do not mind getting colored if you participate
• White clothing is traditionally worn so the colors show more vibrantly

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Best Treks for March: Recommended Routes

Top Tier: Excellent in March

1. Annapurna Base Camp (ABC)

March is arguably the single best month for the ABC trek. The combination of rhododendron blooms on the approach trail, comfortable temperatures at base camp, moderate crowds, and clear mountain views makes this the premier March trekking experience.

• Duration: 7-12 days
• Max Altitude: 4,130m
• Rhododendron Factor: Peak bloom along the trail, especially Ghorepani to Chhomrong section
• Weather: Very good to excellent
• Crowd Level: Moderate
• Read more: Annapurna Base Camp Complete Guide

2. Poon Hill Trek

The quintessential March trek. Short, accessible, and absolutely stunning with rhododendron forests at their best. The sunrise view from Poon Hill (3,210m) over Dhaulagiri and the Annapurna range is particularly clear in late March.

• Duration: 4-5 days
• Max Altitude: 3,210m
• Rhododendron Factor: Exceptional -- the Ghorepani corridor is Nepal's finest rhododendron display
• Weather: Excellent
• Crowd Level: Moderate (popular route)
• Read more: Poon Hill Trek Guide

3. Langtang Valley Trek

An underrated March gem. Proximity to Kathmandu, moderate altitude, spring blooms in the lower valley, and very few crowds make this an excellent choice for spring trekkers.

• Duration: 7-10 days
• Max Altitude: 3,870m (Kyanjin Gompa), 4,984m (Tserko Ri optional)
• Rhododendron Factor: Good blooms in lower valley (2,500-3,200m)
• Weather: Good to very good
• Crowd Level: Low to moderate
• Read more: Langtang Valley Trek Guide

4. Mardi Himal Trek

This relatively new official route in the Annapurna region passes through beautiful rhododendron forests and offers intimate views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) and the Annapurna range. Fewer crowds than nearby Poon Hill and ABC.

• Duration: 5-7 days
• Max Altitude: 4,500m
• Rhododendron Factor: Excellent in the 2,500-3,500m forest section
• Weather: Good to very good
• Crowd Level: Low to moderate

Good in March: Plan Carefully

5. Everest Base Camp (EBC)

Perfectly doable in March, though colder than the autumn season, particularly at higher elevations. Late March is significantly warmer than early March. The EBC trail itself is clear, and crowd levels are a fraction of October.

• Duration: 12-14 days
• Max Altitude: 5,364m (EBC), 5,643m (Kala Patthar)
• Weather: Good; cold at high camps, especially early March
• Crowd Level: Moderate (40-50% of peak)
• Note: Kala Patthar sunrise will be cold (-10 to -15°C early March); dress accordingly
• Read more: Everest Base Camp Complete Guide

6. Annapurna Circuit

The full circuit is possible in March, but Thorong La Pass (5,416m) conditions need checking. Late March crossings are generally reliable; early March can have deep snow on the pass.

• Duration: 12-18 days
• Max Altitude: 5,416m (Thorong La)
• Weather: Good on lower sections; variable at Thorong La
• Crowd Level: Low to moderate
• Note: Check pass conditions with your agency before departure

7. Manaslu Circuit

Possible from mid-March, but Larkya La Pass (5,160m) conditions dictate timing. This restricted area trek offers outstanding solitude in March.

• Duration: 14-18 days
• Max Altitude: 5,160m (Larkya La)
• Weather: Good; pass conditions critical
• Crowd Level: Very low
• Read more: Manaslu Circuit Guide

Approach with Caution in Early March

Treks involving passes above 5,000m in the first week of March should be approached with caution:

• Three Passes Trek (Everest region): Multiple high passes may have significant snow
• Kanchenjunga Circuit: Remote and very cold, limited rescue access
• Upper Dolpo: Extremely remote, very cold, passes snow-covered
• Any peak climbing (Island Peak, Mera Peak): Winter conditions may persist above 5,500m

These routes become progressively more viable through March and are generally good options by late March or early April.

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What to Pack for March: Variable Spring Weather

March requires versatile packing due to its transitional nature. Daytime warmth, cold nights, potential rain, and possible snow at altitude all need to be addressed.

Layering System for March

Base Layers:

• Merino wool or synthetic long-sleeve top (2x) -- essential for mornings and high altitude
• Merino wool or synthetic long underwear bottoms (2x)
• Lightweight hiking shirts for lower elevations (2x)
• Hiking pants: 2 pairs (convertible zip-off recommended for March's temperature swings)

Mid Layers:

• Fleece jacket or pullover (medium to heavy weight)
• Down or synthetic insulated jacket (essential for evenings and high camps)
• Light fleece vest (optional but useful for variable conditions)

Outer Layers:

• Waterproof hardshell jacket -- more important in March than October (pre-monsoon showers possible)
• Waterproof hardshell pants (for rain and wind at altitude)
• Rain cover for backpack

March-Specific Notes:

• March weather is more variable than October; prepare for sun, rain, and snow in a single day at altitude
• Waterproof layers are more essential than in autumn due to occasional pre-monsoon precipitation
• Temperature swings between day and night are significant; layering is critical

Sleeping System

• Sleeping bag rated to -10°C to -15°C comfort for moderate altitude treks (ABC, Poon Hill, Langtang)
• Sleeping bag rated to -15°C to -20°C for high altitude treks (EBC, Manaslu, any pass crossing)
• Sleeping bag liner (silk or fleece) for added warmth and hygiene

Footwear

• Waterproof trekking boots (well broken-in) -- waterproofing more important in March than October due to mud and melting snow
• Gaiters for high-altitude sections with snow (optional but useful for pass crossings)
• Microspikes or light crampons if crossing passes above 5,000m in early-mid March
• Camp shoes (down booties or sandals) for lodge evenings

March-Specific Extras

• Rain gear: March has higher precipitation probability than October; a reliable waterproof jacket and pack cover are essential
• Sun protection: UV intensity increases in spring; SPF 50+ sunscreen, quality sunglasses (Category 3-4), sun hat
• Allergy medication: Spring blooms can trigger allergies even in people who do not normally suffer; bring antihistamines
• Moisturizer and lip balm with SPF: Air is dry at altitude despite occasional rain lower down
• Trekking poles: Helpful for stability on potentially muddy or icy trail sections

For a comprehensive gear list, see our Nepal trekking packing list guide.

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Pros and Cons: March Trekking at a Glance

| Pros | Cons | |------|------| | Spectacular rhododendron blooms (unique to spring) | High passes may have snow early March | | Comfortable daytime temperatures | Visibility not as consistently clear as October | | Moderate crowds (40-60% of peak) | Occasional pre-monsoon rain showers | | Shoulder-season pricing (15-25% savings) | Nights remain cold at high altitude | | Warming trend through the month | Some haze possible, especially early March | | Full infrastructure operational | March weather more variable than October | | Wildflowers throughout mid-altitude forests | Mud on some lower trail sections | | Holi festival cultural experience | Dust in valleys and on road sections | | Good guide/porter availability | Shorter daylight than October (but improving) | | Excellent for photography (flowers + mountains) | Not ideal for extreme high altitude early in month |

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March vs Other Spring Months: How to Choose

March vs February

| Factor | February | March | |--------|----------|-------| | Temperature | Cold, especially at altitude | Noticeably warmer | | Rhododendrons | Not yet blooming | Starting to peak | | Crowds | Very low (20-30% of peak) | Moderate (40-60%) | | Passes (5,000m+) | Often snow-covered | Clearing through month | | Pricing | Low season rates | Shoulder season rates | | Visibility | Good but winter haze possible | Good, improving | | Best for | Solitude seekers, lower altitude treks | Wildflowers, balanced conditions |

Bottom line: February is colder and quieter; March is warmer with blooms. For high-altitude treks, March is the stronger choice. For lower treks where cold is manageable, February offers better solitude and prices.

Read more: Trekking Nepal in February

March vs April

| Factor | March | April | |--------|-------|-------| | Temperature | Warm and pleasant | Warmer, haze building | | Rhododendrons | Beginning to peak | Peak to fading (higher altitudes peak) | | Crowds | Moderate | Moderate to high (spring peak) | | Passes (5,000m+) | Clearing, some snow early | Generally clear | | Precipitation | Low to moderate | Increasing (pre-monsoon buildup) | | Visibility | Good to very good | Good but haze increasing | | Best for | Lower and mid-altitude wildflower treks | High-altitude treks, high passes |

Bottom line: March offers better visibility and lower crowds in its first half, while April provides more reliable high-pass conditions. If rhododendrons are your priority, March is superior at lower elevations (2,500-3,200m) while April catches higher blooms (3,200-4,000m). April tends to have more pre-monsoon haze.

Read more: Trekking Nepal in April

March vs May

May is the pre-monsoon shoulder month with significantly warmer temperatures, increasing haze and cloud cover, higher precipitation probability, and green but increasingly humid conditions. March is the clearly superior spring trekking month for visibility and comfort. May is only recommended for high-altitude peak climbing when snow conditions on routes like Island Peak are more favorable.

March vs October (Peak Season)

| Factor | March | October | |--------|-------|---------| | Weather reliability | Good (variable) | Excellent (very stable) | | Visibility | Good to very good | Exceptional | | Crowds | 40-60% of October | 100% (peak) | | Pricing | 15-25% lower | Premium (highest) | | Unique feature | Rhododendron blooms | Post-monsoon clarity | | Pass conditions | Variable (snow possible) | Excellent (all clear) | | Booking pressure | Moderate | Very high |

Bottom line: October offers more reliable weather and visibility, but March delivers a unique wildflower experience, fewer crowds, and lower costs. Many experienced Nepal trekkers prefer March for its character and value.

Read more: Best Time to Trek Nepal comprehensive guide

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Booking and Planning Tips for March

When to Book

• Agency/organized treks: 2-3 months before (less pressure than October, but popular agencies fill up)
• Lukla flights (for Everest region): 1-2 months before (less demand than autumn; still book in advance)
• Teahouse reservations: Not strictly necessary for most routes, but recommended for popular stops (Namche, Ghorepani, Chhomrong)
• Restricted area permits (Manaslu, Upper Mustang): 3-4 weeks before departure minimum

Guide and Porter Availability

March guide and porter availability is generally good, with rates approximately:

• Licensed trekking guide: $25-35/day (negotiable in March)
• Porter: $15-22/day
• Guide-porter combo: $28-38/day

For more on hiring, see our guide to hiring guides and porters in Nepal.

Transportation Considerations

• Lukla flights: Regular service in March; fewer cancellations than monsoon season but still weather-dependent. Book in advance.
• Pokhara flights/buses: Regular service; domestic flights from Kathmandu to Pokhara take 25 minutes
• Local buses and jeeps: Full operation; road conditions generally good in March

Insurance

Ensure your travel insurance covers:

• Trekking to your maximum planned altitude
• Helicopter rescue and evacuation
• Trip cancellation/interruption

For complete coverage advice, see our travel insurance guide for Nepal trekking.

Pre-Trek Acclimatization

If flying to Lukla for Everest region treks, spend at least one full day in Kathmandu before flying. If arriving from sea level, consider two days. March's slightly lower oxygen partial pressure (compared to summer) makes acclimatization equally important.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Trekking Nepal in March

Is March a good time to trek in Nepal?

Yes, March is an excellent trekking month. It offers comfortable temperatures, moderate crowds, shoulder-season pricing, and the unique spectacle of rhododendron blooms. It is widely considered the best spring month for trekking Nepal, particularly for routes at moderate altitude (up to 4,500m). High-altitude treks (above 5,000m) are better in late March than early March.

Can I do the Everest Base Camp trek in March?

Absolutely. EBC is fully achievable in March. Expect colder conditions at high camps compared to October (especially early March), but trails are clear and crowds are significantly lower. Late March offers the best EBC conditions of the spring season. Bring warm gear rated for temperatures down to -15°C at Gorak Shep. See our complete Everest Base Camp trek guide for detailed planning.

When do rhododendrons bloom in Nepal?

The rhododendron bloom typically begins in late February at lower elevations (2,000-2,500m) and progresses upward through March and April, reaching peak coverage at 2,500-3,500m in mid to late March. The bloom continues at higher elevations (3,500-4,000m) into April. The best locations to see rhododendrons include the Ghorepani-Poon Hill corridor, the ABC trail, and the lower Langtang Valley.

Are high passes open in March?

It depends on the pass and the timing. Thorong La and Larkya La are typically passable from mid-March onward, though conditions vary year to year. Cho La and Renjo La may have snow through mid-March. The Kongma La is often the last pass to clear. Always check current conditions with your trekking agency or the Himalayan Rescue Association. Late March is significantly more reliable than early March for pass crossings.

How cold is it in March at altitude?

At mid-elevations (3,000-3,500m), expect daytime temperatures of 8-15°C and nighttime lows of -2 to 5°C. At high elevations (4,500-5,000m), daytime temperatures range from 0-8°C with nighttime lows of -10 to -5°C. At extreme altitude (5,000m+), expect nighttime temperatures of -15 to -8°C. March is 3-5°C warmer than February at equivalent elevations, and conditions improve steadily through the month.

Is it rainy in March?

March is predominantly dry, though it sits at the very beginning of the pre-monsoon transition. Total monthly precipitation averages 25-45mm at lower elevations and 15-30mm at trekking altitudes. Occasional brief afternoon showers are possible, especially late March, but sustained rain is uncommon. Pack a reliable waterproof jacket but do not expect monsoon-like conditions. Compared to October, March has slightly higher precipitation probability but still qualifies as a dry trekking month.

Do I need Diamox for March trekking?

If your trek goes above 3,000m, discuss Diamox (Acetazolamide) with your doctor before departure. March acclimatization requirements are identical to any other month. For treks reaching 5,000m+ (EBC, Annapurna Circuit, Manaslu), prophylactic Diamox is commonly recommended. For more information, see our altitude sickness prevention and treatment guide.

Is March good for the Annapurna Base Camp trek?

March is arguably the single best month for the ABC trek. The trail passes through Nepal's most spectacular rhododendron forests, which are at or near peak bloom in mid to late March. Temperatures at base camp (4,130m) are cold but manageable, crowds are moderate, and the mountain views are excellent. If ABC is your target trek, March should be near the top of your timing considerations.

How far in advance should I book a March trek?

For popular routes (EBC, ABC, Poon Hill), booking 2-3 months ahead is sufficient for agency treks and 1-2 months for Lukla flights. For less popular routes (Langtang, Mardi Himal), last-minute booking is often possible. Restricted area treks (Manaslu, Upper Mustang) require permit processing time of at least 3-4 weeks. March has significantly less booking pressure than October, but planning ahead still ensures the best guide selection and lodge arrangements.

Can I trek independently in March?

Yes. March is a good month for independent trekking on established routes like EBC, ABC, Poon Hill, and Langtang. Teahouses are open and operating, trails are well-marked (though snow may obscure markings at very high altitudes early in the month), and there are enough other trekkers for safety in numbers. High pass crossings and restricted area treks require guides. For a detailed comparison of guided vs independent options, see our independent vs guided trekking guide.

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Final Verdict: Should You Trek Nepal in March?

March is an outstanding month for trekking Nepal, offering a compelling blend of spring beauty, comfortable conditions, and practical advantages. It particularly excels for:

• Wildflower enthusiasts who want to experience Nepal's legendary rhododendron bloom
• Budget-conscious trekkers seeking good conditions without peak-season pricing
• Crowd-averse trekkers who want a quieter trail experience
• Photographers looking for the unique combination of spring blooms and mountain backdrops
• First-time Nepal trekkers attempting moderate-altitude routes (Poon Hill, ABC, Langtang)

March is not the optimal choice for:

• Trekkers who demand guaranteed clear weather every day (October is more reliable)
• Early March high-pass crossings without alpine experience
• Those who dislike variable weather conditions

For most trekkers, March delivers an experience that rivals the famous autumn season while adding the irreplaceable magic of spring in the Himalayas. The rhododendron blooms alone make March a once-in-a-lifetime trekking experience that cannot be replicated in any other month.

Ready to plan your March trek? Start with our best time to trek Nepal overview for broader context, then dive into specific route guides for Annapurna Base Camp, Poon Hill, Everest Base Camp, or Langtang Valley.