Kathmandu vs Pokhara

Kathmandu and Pokhara are closely matched in January. Neither city has a clear advantage across all metrics. Your decision should come down to personal preference, cultural interests, and travel logistics rather than weather alone.

Kathmandu sits in the comfortable travel range at 16°C. Pokhara is cooler at 11°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Pokhara is the stronger choice in January. Kathmandu receives 9 more hours of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Kathmandu reaches an average high of 16°C (61°F) and drops to 6°C (43°F) at night during January. The daily temperature range is 10°C, meaning moderate variation throughout the day.

Pokhara averages 11°C (52°F) for the high and 3°C (37°F) for the low, with a daily range of 8°C. There is a notable 5°C gap between the two cities, so expect a very different feel.

Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in January.

Kathmandu receives approximately 40 mm of rainfall across 6 rain days during January. Rain is occasional, so a light rain jacket should suffice.

Pokhara sees 33 mm over 3 rain days. That makes Pokhara the drier option by 3 rain days and 7 mm of total precipitation.

Humidity also differs: Kathmandu averages 70% while Pokhara sits at 65%. Kathmandu will feel muggier, especially at higher temperatures.