Nepal is a dream destination for adventurers, trekkers, and culture seekers alike. Autumn—spanning September to November—is the best time to visit Nepal, offering clear skies, fresh post-monsoon landscapes, and some of the most important cultural festivals like Dashain and Tihar. Whether you’re trekking in the Himalayas, exploring cultural sites in Kathmandu and Pokhara, or heading on a jungle safari in Chitwan, your packing strategy can make or break your trip.
Autumn in Nepal is considered the peak trekking and travel season, but the weather can vary widely based on your altitude and location. This guide covers everything you need to pack for Nepal in autumn, including clothing, trekking gear, travel essentials, electronics, and documents to ensure you’re well-prepared for every adventure.
Why Packing Smart Matters in Autumn
Autumn in Nepal offers ideal trekking and sightseeing conditions, but the daily temperature range can be broad:
- Lower altitudes (Kathmandu, Pokhara, Terai): Warm days (~20–28°C), cool mornings and evenings
- Mid-altitude treks (up to 3,000m): Days are mild, nights get chilly (~5–10°C)
- High-altitude treks (above 3,000m): Cold temperatures, especially at night and early morning (can drop below freezing)
Layering is key to staying comfortable, and packing light yet functional is crucial, especially if you’re trekking with porters or carrying your own backpack.
Clothing Essentials
1. Base Layers (Moisture-Wicking)
- 2–3 lightweight, breathable T-shirts (synthetic or merino wool)
- 1–2 thermal tops (long-sleeved) for warmth during high-altitude treks
- 2–3 pairs of moisture-wicking underwear
- 2–3 sports bras (for women)
Tip: Avoid cotton—once wet, it stays cold and damp.
2. Insulation Layers
- 1 fleece jacket or mid-layer
- 1 lightweight down jacket or synthetic insulated jacket (especially for evenings and mornings)
- Thermal leggings or tights for layering at night or under hiking pants
3. Outer Layer (Shell)
- 1 waterproof, windproof jacket (Gore-Tex or similar)
- 1 pair of water-resistant trekking pants or convertible hiking pants
- Lightweight rain poncho (optional but helpful in September)
4. Bottoms
- 2 pairs of quick-dry trekking pants
- 1 pair of thermal pants (for sleeping or cold-weather trekking)
- 1 pair of lightweight shorts or leggings for lower altitudes
- Casual pants/jeans for city exploration
5. Headwear & Accessories
- 1 wide-brim hat or cap for sun protection
- 1 wool or fleece beanie for cold mornings/nights
- 1–2 neck gaiters or buffs (great for dust, cold, and sun)
- UV-blocking sunglasses
- Light gloves (and optional insulated gloves if going above 4,000m)
6. Footwear
- 1 pair of well-broken-in hiking boots (ankle support preferred)
- 2–3 pairs of moisture-wicking trekking socks (wool blends)
- 1 pair of lightweight sandals or camp shoes for evenings
- Optional: Gaiters if trekking in muddy terrain
Trekking & Travel Gear
1. Backpack & Daypack
- Trekking backpack (50–65L) with rain cover if you’re doing a multi-day trek
- Daypack (20–30L) for day hikes or city tours
- Dry bags or packing cubes for organization and water protection
2. Sleeping Gear
- Sleeping bag rated to at least -10°C (especially for tea house treks)
- Sleeping bag liner (adds warmth and keeps sleeping bag clean)
- Travel pillow or stuff-sack filled with clothes
3. Trekking Poles
- Adjustable collapsible trekking poles help reduce strain on knees, especially downhill
4. Headlamp or Flashlight
- LED headlamp with extra batteries (some lodges have limited electricity at night)
5. Water Bottles & Purification
- 1–2 reusable water bottles (1L each)
- Water purification tablets or UV water purifier (e.g., SteriPEN)
- Optional: Hydration bladder
6. Snacks & Food Items
- Energy bars, trail mix, electrolyte powders
- Instant coffee or tea sachets (tea houses charge extra for hot drinks)
Personal Hygiene & Toiletries
- Biodegradable soap & shampoo
- Quick-dry towel
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss
- Wet wipes & hand sanitizer
- Toilet paper or tissues
- Lip balm with SPF
- Sunscreen (SPF 30–50)
- Face moisturizer (dry air at altitude)
- Nail clippers, tweezers
- Small mirror
- Menstrual hygiene products (pads, tampons, or menstrual cup)
Pro Tip: In remote villages and on treks, toiletries can be hard to find or expensive.
Health & First Aid Kit
- Personal prescription medications
- Altitude sickness pills (Acetazolamide / Diamox) – consult your doctor
- Imodium or similar (for diarrhea)
- Electrolyte tablets
- Ibuprofen / paracetamol
- Band-aids, blister plasters (e.g., Compeed)
- Antiseptic cream / alcohol wipes
- Anti-nausea tablets (for mountain roads or flights)
- Insect repellent (especially in lower altitudes)
Optional: Basic first-aid kit (available pre-packed in Kathmandu or Pokhara)
Travel Documents & Money
- Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity)
- Visa on arrival (or e-visa printout) – available at Tribhuvan International Airport
- Travel insurance (must cover high-altitude trekking)
- Trekking permits:
- TIMS card (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
- Annapurna / Everest / Langtang conservation permits (depending on your route)
- Printed flight itineraries & hotel reservations
- Extra passport photos (for permits and visas)
- Cash (Nepalese rupees) – ATMs available in cities but not in remote areas
- Credit/debit card – for city use only
- Money belt or hidden pouch
Electronics & Accessories
- Smartphone (with offline maps like Maps.me or Gaia GPS)
- Universal travel adapter
- Power bank (10,000mAh or more) – power can be limited in remote areas
- Camera (if you’re a photography enthusiast)
- Memory cards & extra batteries
- E-reader or paperback (for relaxing in teahouses)
- Offline entertainment (movies, podcasts, music)
Optional but Useful Items
- Guidebook (Lonely Planet or Bradt for Nepal)
- Notebook & pen
- Language phrasebook or translation app
- Small gifts or sweets for children in villages (not money or candy)
- Lightweight yoga mat or meditation cushion
- Reusable shopping bag
- Small padlock for lockers or duffel bags
Tips for Trekking vs. City Packing
For Trekking:
- Pack light—most treks limit your luggage to 10–15 kg.
- Use trekking poles, even if you’re experienced.
- Down jackets and sleeping bags can be rented in Kathmandu or Pokhara if needed.
- Be prepared for cold mornings and nights, especially above 3,000m.
- You’ll find basic tea houses, but hot showers, Wi-Fi, and charging are limited or come at extra cost.
For Cities & Cultural Travel:
- Include a casual outfit for evenings out or temple visits.
- Bring a scarf or shawl to cover shoulders when entering religious sites.
- Wear slip-on shoes or sandals, as you’ll often remove them when entering homes and temples.
- Pack for festival participation—especially during Dashain and Tihar (e.g., something modest and festive).
Sustainable Travel Tip
Nepal is becoming increasingly conscious of its environmental footprint. Be a responsible traveler:
- Avoid single-use plastics—bring your own water bottles and bags.
- Use biodegradable soap and toiletries.
- Support local businesses and homestays.
- Pack out all non-compostable waste when trekking.
Final Thoughts: Pack Smart, Travel Light, and Be Prepared
Packing for Nepal in autumn requires a balance of comfort, protection, and adaptability. With clear skies and festive energy everywhere, you want to focus on enjoying your journey—not worrying about missing gear or unsuitable clothes.
From the bustling streets of Kathmandu to the tranquil trails of the Annapurna and Everest regions, the right gear will help you embrace Nepal’s cultural richness, natural beauty, and thrilling adventures with confidence.
Happy travels and safe trekking!