Weather in Kathmandu 🇳🇵
Monthly weather averages & travel planning
December
Avg Temp
17°C
Rain Days
3 days
Sun Hours
10 hrs
Humidity
70%
Asia › 🇳🇵 Nepal › Kathmandu
Updated: March 2026
Is December a Good Time to Visit Kathmandu?
8/10
Excellent
December is a excellent time to visit Kathmandu (8/10). With 10 daily sunshine hours and only 3 rain days, this month delivers genuinely reliable outdoor conditions, ranking it 8th sunniest of the year in Kathmandu. Beach and outdoor-focused visitors will find December ideal, though hotel prices reflect demand and popular sites get crowded by mid-morning. January offers a similar profile at lower hotel rates if dates are flexible. The main practical note: Kathmandu's popular sites are busiest between 10am and 3pm regardless of season. Arriving at opening time or after 4pm makes a significant difference to the experience. Planning tips: book accommodation at least 6-8 weeks ahead, as popular hotels fill quickly during December. Purchasing skip-the-line tickets for major attractions in advance saves meaningful time. If you have flexibility, arriving a few days before or after peak weekends reduces both crowds and prices noticeably.
vs November:20°C avg high
Visiting Kathmandu in December means mild conditions with highs around 17°C. Factor in 3 potential rainy days and 70% average humidity when planning your daily activities.
17°C
63°F
Avg High
8°C
46°F
Avg Low
3 days
19 mm total
Rain Days
10h
per day avg
Sunshine
70%
Moderate
Humidity
Temperature in Kathmandu in December
The 9°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. The UV index of 2 is low, meaning sun exposure is minimal concern and sunscreen is largely optional. Winds are calm at an average 7 km/h, so wind-chill is not a factor in planning your clothing. In Fahrenheit: 63°F average high, 46°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 Kathmandu in December
Morning8°CBefore the day warms up
Afternoon17°CPeak daytime temperature
Evening11°CAfter sunset cools down
Packing for Kathmandu in December means dressing for 17°C days and 8°C evenings. A mid-weight jacket over a sweater handles 17°C daytime temperatures; the combination stays comfortable all day without overheating. Evening temperatures settle at 8°C, a modest 9°C drop that a light cardigan or denim jacket covers. Comfortable walking trainers are the versatile choice for both outdoor sightseeing and indoor venues.
Local tip: Temple and religious site visits require covered shoulders and knees in most of Kathmandu's heritage areas. A lightweight scarf or sarong weighs almost nothing and solves the problem instantly.
Events in Kathmandu in December
December has no major festivals or public holidays in Kathmandu, 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 Kathmandu in December
Based on 17°C average highs and 3 rainy days
- Light jacket or cardigan for cooler evenings
- Mix of short and long-sleeve layers
- Comfortable walking shoes with good arch support
- Universal travel adapter
- Small day pack for city exploration
- Reusable water bottle
Best Activities in Kathmandu in December
- Explore the old town's cobblestone backstreetsMorning (9-11am)At 17°C, conditions are pleasant for unhurried exploration on foot
- Visit hilltop viewpoints for panoramic city viewsLate afternoon (4-6pm)Low sun angle creates dramatic light for photography while temperatures remain comfortable
- Bicycle rental for a half-day city circuitMid-morning startMild 17°C temperatures are ideal for extended cycling without excessive effort
- Boat tour of the river, bay, or canal networkLate morning departureComfortable weather makes open-deck boats viable without wind-chill concerns
- Afternoon in a world-class museum or galleryAfternoon (2-5pm)Pairs well with outdoor morning activities and provides a mid-day rest from sightseeing
- Coffee-house or traditional cafe culture experienceMid-morning or post-lunchA cultural ritual in this region that rewards slow appreciation regardless of weather
- Evening live music, theatre, or opera performanceEvening shows typically at 7-9pmConsistent evening temperatures make getting to and from evening venues comfortable
- Visit the main botanical garden or city park at seasonal peakYear-round; best light in morningDecember brings distinct seasonal changes to public green spaces worth exploring
- Try the seasonal farmer's market for local produce and street foodSaturday morning markets typically 8am-1pmDecember seasonal produce is at peak availability, offering dishes not found at other times of year
Why is Kathmandu mild in December?
December in Kathmandu reflects a mid-latitude climate pattern, with temperatures averaging 17°C by day and 8°C overnight. The city sits at 28 degrees north latitude, where the balance between solar radiation and heat loss drives conditions that are neither extreme nor static. Conditions occupy the comfortable middle band of the annual temperature range, where outdoor activity is feasible without the extremes of midsummer heat or midwinter cold. Day-to-night temperature variation of 9°C is moderate and manageable with a single mid-layer. 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
Kathmandu in December
In December, Kathmandu experiences average highs of 17°C (63°F) and lows of 8°C (46°F). Expect around 3 rainy days and 10 hours of sunshine per day, with humidity averaging 70%. The 9°C gap between daytime and overnight temperatures is worth planning around: light layers work for most visitors during the day, but an extra jacket is essential for evenings. UV exposure is moderate at index 2.
Kathmandu typically sees 3 rainy days in December, with total precipitation of around 19mm. This makes December one of the drier months of the year, and a reliable window for outdoor sightseeing and day trips. Rain showers tend to be brief when they do occur. For context, the driest month in Kathmandu typically sees 4-6 fewer rain days than December.
Pack a warm jacket, sweaters, and layering pieces for Kathmandu in December. Temperatures can drop to 8°C at night, so thermal underlayers are advisable for evening outings. Waterproof footwear is a sensible precaution even though rain days are limited. A scarf, hat, and gloves handle the windchill on clear cold days, which often feel colder than the thermometer reads.
Yes, December is an excellent time to visit Kathmandu. With 10 daily sunshine hours and only 3 rainy days, conditions are ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Temperatures averaging 17°C during the day are comfortable for long walks and outdoor dining. This is peak travel season, so booking accommodation in advance and arriving at popular attractions early in the morning helps avoid the busiest periods.
The average high temperature in Kathmandu in December is 17°C (63°F), and the average low is 8°C (46°F). The mean daily temperature is approximately 13°C (55°F). The day-to-night range of 9°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 Kathmandu is generally March. March offers the most sunshine at 11 hours per day and only 10 rainy days. Average temperatures reach 22°C, making it comfortable for sightseeing, outdoor dining, and exploring the city. If your travel dates are flexible, planning your trip around March gives you the best chance of dry, bright weather.
December is shoulder or low season in Kathmandu, meaning fewer tourists and generally lower prices than peak months. With 10 sunshine hours and 3 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 December, Kathmandu suits a range of activities thanks to cool conditions around 17°C. With few rainy days, outdoor activities are highly recommended. Top options include exploring historic neighbourhoods, visiting museums and galleries, local food markets, and day trips to surrounding areas. With 10 hours of sunshine, parks and waterfront walks are particularly enjoyable.
December ranks 8th sunniest of the year in Kathmandu, with an average 10 daily sunshine hours. The driest months are December, January, and November. May is the hottest month (26°C avg high); January is the coolest (16°C). From here, temperatures fall 1°C into January. Compared to last month (November: 20°C high, 6 rain days), December is cooler and drier. December sits in the middle of the annual sunshine ranking for Kathmandu, offering a reasonable balance of good weather and manageable crowds.
Year-Round Climate
| Month | High | Low | Rain Days | Sun | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 16°C | 7°C | 6 | 10h | View |
| February | 18°C | 8°C | 8 | 10h | View |
| March | 22°C | 11°C | 10 | 11h | View |
| April | 25°C | 14°C | 13 | 12h | View |
| May | 26°C | 17°C | 22 | 12h | View |
| June | 26°C | 19°C | 27 | 9h | View |
| July | 25°C | 20°C | 31 | 6h | View |
| August | 25°C | 20°C | 31 | 7h | View |
| September | 25°C | 19°C | 28 | 8h | View |
| October | 23°C | 15°C | 15 | 10h | View |
| November | 20°C | 12°C | 6 | 10h | View |
| December | 17°C | 8°C | 3 | 10h | View |
January
6 rain days, 10h sun
16°7°
February
8 rain days, 10h sun
18°8°
March
10 rain days, 11h sun
22°11°
April
13 rain days, 12h sun
25°14°
May
22 rain days, 12h sun
26°17°
June
27 rain days, 9h sun
26°19°
July
31 rain days, 6h sun
25°20°
August
31 rain days, 7h sun
25°20°
September
28 rain days, 8h sun
25°19°
October
15 rain days, 10h sun
23°15°
November
6 rain days, 10h sun
20°12°
December
3 rain days, 10h sun
17°8°
Other Months in Kathmandu
Plan Your Trip to Kathmandu
Data Sources for Kathmandu
Climate normals represent 30-year averages (1991-2020). Individual years may vary.