Weather in Pokhara 🇳🇵
Monthly weather averages & travel planning
May
Avg Temp
26°C
Rain Days
22 days
Sun Hours
11 hrs
Humidity
70%
Asia › 🇳🇵 Nepal › Pokhara
Updated: March 2026
Is May a Good Time to Visit Pokhara?
5/10
Fair
May is a fair time to visit Pokhara (5/10). With 11 daily sunshine hours and only 22 rain days, this month delivers genuinely reliable outdoor conditions, ranking it 3rd sunniest of the year in Pokhara. Culture-focused travellers and those who prefer lighter crowds will find May a practical choice, with prices running lower than peak April without sacrificing all the good weather. June offers a similar profile at lower hotel rates if dates are flexible. Watch out for prolonged rain stretches: with 22 wet days, a fully outdoor itinerary is risky. Build in museum days and covered market visits as contingency. Planning tips: accommodation is generally available without long lead times, and flight prices are typically lower than peak season. Flexible travellers will find the best deals by booking 2-4 weeks ahead. Mid-week arrivals consistently unlock lower hotel rates than weekend check-ins.
vs April:25°C avg high
May weather in Pokhara is defined by a daily temperature swing from 16°C at night to 26°C during the afternoon. Humidity averages 70%, and you can count on around 11 sunshine hours each day. That combination makes May warm and lush, though dressing in breathable fabrics keeps things manageable.
26°C
79°F
Avg High
16°C
61°F
Avg Low
22 days
350 mm total
Rain Days
11h
per day avg
Sunshine
70%
Moderate
Humidity
Temperature in Pokhara in May
The 10°C day-night temperature range is typical for continental climates: a light jacket in the morning that you shed by midday and need again after sunset. Humidity averages 70%, which is comfortable for most visitors. On warmer days, lighter fabrics help with the mild stickiness in the afternoon. UV index averages 9 this month, classed as high to very high. SPF 30+ sunscreen, a brim hat, and sunglasses are not optional between 10am and 4pm. Winds are calm at an average 7 km/h, so wind-chill is not a factor in planning your clothing. In Fahrenheit: 79°F average high, 61°F overnight low. Data sourced from Open-Meteo ERA5 climate reanalysis (1991–2020 normals).
Temperature Trends
High
Low
Rainfall (mm)
0-20 mm21-50 mm51-100 mm100+ mm
What to Wear in Pokhara in May
Morning16°CBefore the day warms up
Afternoon26°CPeak daytime temperature
Evening19°CAfter sunset cools down
Packing for Pokhara in May means dressing for 26°C days and 16°C evenings. A light cotton tee with a casual overshirt works well at 26°C, the overshirt doubles as a layer for air-conditioned venues. Evening temperatures settle at 16°C, a modest 10°C drop that a light cardigan or denim jacket covers. Comfortable walking trainers are the versatile choice for both outdoor sightseeing and indoor venues. With 22 rain days expected, a compact travel umbrella is worth the bag space. A waterproof jacket is better than an umbrella if you plan full-day outdoor routes. For temple and religious site visits, carry a lightweight scarf or sarong to cover shoulders and knees, required at most major sites across the region.
Local tip: Temple and religious site visits require covered shoulders and knees in most of Pokhara's heritage areas. A lightweight scarf or sarong weighs almost nothing and solves the problem instantly.
Events in Pokhara in May
May has no major festivals or public holidays in Pokhara, which is one of its practical advantages for independent travellers. Attractions run at lower capacity than during peak event periods, queues are shorter, and accommodation is easier to find without needing to book many months in advance. Local restaurants, markets, and transport operate at a relaxed pace, making this an ideal time for visitors who prefer a more authentic, unhurried experience of everyday city life rather than large crowds drawn in by a single major headline event.
What to Pack for Pokhara in May
Based on 26°C average highs and 22 rainy days
- Light layers for morning and evening
- Breathable T-shirts and comfortable trousers
- UV-protective sunglasses
- Quick-dry travel towel
- Anti-chafe balm for long walking days
- Moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics for active days
- Compact folding umbrella
- Waterproof outer layer or packable rain jacket
- Quick-dry clothing that recovers fast after a shower
- SPF 30+ sunscreen
- Comfortable walking shoes (a second pair lets the first air out overnight)
- Universal travel adapter
- Small day pack for city exploration
- Reusable water bottle
Best Activities in Pokhara in May
- Explore outdoor markets and street food stallsMid-morning (10am-12pm)At 26°C, the temperature is ideal for extended walking without overheating
- Guided walking tour of the historic centreMorning or late afternoonComfortable temperatures allow several hours on foot without fatigue
- Visit rooftop viewpoints and observation decksGolden hour (1 hour before sunset)Warm clear evenings provide exceptional visibility for panoramic photography
- Day trip to the surrounding countryside or coastFull day (depart by 8am)May is reliably dry enough for rural day trips without weather risk
- Spend a morning in the national or city art museumOpens at 10am; arrive earlyWith 22 rain days expected, having a full-day indoor plan is practical insurance
- Cooking class focused on regional cuisineHalf-day sessions run 10am-1pm or 3-6pmIndoor activity that fills a rainy half-day with genuine cultural content
- Visit covered historical sites: cathedral, palace, or bazaarAny time; most crowded middayRoofed monuments and covered markets provide exploration without weather exposure
- Visit the main botanical garden or city park at seasonal peakYear-round; best light in morningMay brings distinct seasonal changes to public green spaces worth exploring
- Seek out chilled local specialities: cold-brew tea, ice desserts, or chilled seafood at street-level stallsAny time; most atmospheric in evening marketsHot-weather street food culture peaks in May, with vendors setting up specifically for warm evenings
Why is Pokhara warm in May?
Pokhara's May heat is driven by the Asian summer monsoon system, as the low-pressure cell that forms over the heated landmass draws warm, humid air from the oceans. The result is temperatures averaging 26°C with high moisture in the air. Overnight temperatures remain elevated at 16°C, as clouds and humidity prevent the earth from radiating heat away after sunset. Climate data: Open-Meteo ERA5 (1991–2020).
Sunshine Hours
The average number of hours per day with direct sunlight. Calculated from satellite measurements. Days with more than 7 hours of sunshine are ideal for outdoor activities. Under 3 hours means overcast conditions dominate.
UV Index
A scale from 0-11+ measuring ultraviolet radiation intensity. UV 0-2: Minimal risk. UV 3-5: Moderate, wear sunscreen. UV 6-7: High, hat and SPF 30+ essential. UV 8-10: Very High, limit midday exposure. UV 11+: Extreme, seek shade between 10am-4pm.
Rain Days
A rain day is counted when precipitation exceeds 0.1mm. This threshold captures even light drizzle. Unlike total rainfall in mm, rain days tells you how often you might need an umbrella, which is useful for planning outdoor activities.
Humidity
Relative humidity as a percentage. Below 40%: Dry, skin and throat may feel parched. 40-60%: Comfortable, ideal for most people. 60-80%: Sticky, light breathable fabrics recommended. Above 80%: Muggy, heat feels more intense; quick-dry clothing is essential.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pokhara in May
In May, Pokhara experiences average highs of 26°C (79°F) and lows of 16°C (61°F). Expect around 22 rainy days and 11 hours of sunshine per day, with humidity averaging 70%. The 10°C gap between daytime and overnight temperatures is worth planning around: light layers work for most visitors during the day, but an overshirt or cardigan handles the cooler evenings. UV index averages 9, so sun protection is advisable on clear days.
Pokhara typically sees 22 rainy days in May, with total precipitation of around 350mm. This is a notably wet period. A waterproof jacket or compact umbrella is essential, and it is worth building indoor alternatives into your daily itinerary for the inevitable rainy stretches. For context, the driest month in Pokhara typically sees 4-6 fewer rain days than May.
Pack light layers, a light jacket for evenings, comfortable walking shoes, and sunscreen for Pokhara in May. Daytime temperatures of 26°C are pleasant, but the evening drop to 16°C means a jacket is essential if you plan to be out after dark. With 22 rainy days, bring a compact umbrella or waterproof jacket for unexpected showers. Comfortable walking shoes are a priority given the amount of ground most visitors cover.
May is a reasonable time to visit Pokhara. Expect 22 rainy days, so pack a light rain layer for flexibility. Average temperatures of 26°C make outdoor exploration comfortable during the dry periods. With 11 daily sunshine hours, there are reliable windows of good weather to plan outdoor activities around, even if the month is not the driest on the calendar.
The average high temperature in Pokhara in May is 26°C (79°F), and the average low is 16°C (61°F). The mean daily temperature is approximately 21°C (70°F). The day-to-night range of 10°C is moderate, meaning a single light jacket covers most situations. These are 30-year climate normals based on the 1991 to 2020 reference period; individual years will vary, particularly in transitional months like spring and autumn.
The best month to visit Pokhara is generally April. April offers the most sunshine at 12 hours per day. Average temperatures reach 25°C, making it comfortable for sightseeing, outdoor dining, and exploring the city. If your travel dates are flexible, planning your trip around April gives you the best chance of dry, bright weather.
May is shoulder or low season in Pokhara, meaning fewer tourists and generally lower prices than peak months. With 11 sunshine hours and 22 rainy days, the weather is less of a draw for mass tourism. This is an advantage for travellers who prefer a quieter, more relaxed experience with shorter queues and easier accommodation availability.
In May, Pokhara suits a range of activities thanks to mild temperatures around 26°C. With frequent rain, indoor activities and covered attractions are a smart choice. Top options include exploring historic neighbourhoods, visiting museums and galleries, local food markets, and day trips to surrounding areas. With 11 hours of sunshine, parks and waterfront walks are particularly enjoyable.
May ranks 3rd sunniest of the year in Pokhara, with an average 11 daily sunshine hours. The driest months are December, January, and April. May is the hottest month (26°C avg high); January is the coolest (16°C). From here, temperatures fall 0°C into June. Compared to last month (April: 25°C high, 15 rain days), May is warmer and wetter. May is among the top three sunniest months to visit Pokhara.
Year-Round Climate
| Month | High | Low | Rain Days | Sun | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 16°C | 5°C | 15 | 10h | View |
| February | 18°C | 6°C | 18 | 10h | View |
| March | 22°C | 9°C | 18 | 11h | View |
| April | 25°C | 12°C | 15 | 12h | View |
| May | 26°C | 16°C | 22 | 11h | View |
| June | 26°C | 20°C | 28 | 9h | View |
| July | 26°C | 22°C | 31 | 6h | View |
| August | 26°C | 22°C | 30 | 7h | View |
| September | 25°C | 20°C | 26 | 9h | View |
| October | 23°C | 15°C | 17 | 10h | View |
| November | 20°C | 11°C | 15 | 10h | View |
| December | 17°C | 8°C | 13 | 10h | View |
January
15 rain days, 10h sun
16°5°
February
18 rain days, 10h sun
18°6°
March
18 rain days, 11h sun
22°9°
April
15 rain days, 12h sun
25°12°
May
22 rain days, 11h sun
26°16°
June
28 rain days, 9h sun
26°20°
July
31 rain days, 6h sun
26°22°
August
30 rain days, 7h sun
26°22°
September
26 rain days, 9h sun
25°20°
October
17 rain days, 10h sun
23°15°
November
15 rain days, 10h sun
20°11°
December
13 rain days, 10h sun
17°8°
Other Months in Pokhara
Plan Your Trip to Pokhara
Data Sources for Pokhara
Climate normals represent 30-year averages (1991-2020). Individual years may vary.