If you’re planning on doing any travel or trekking and wondering what to wear in Nepal in January? January falls in the winter season in Nepal. You’ll need to be prepared for cold weather.
Make sure to pack plenty of warm clothes, including jackets, sweaters, hats, scarf, gloves, etc. It’s also a good idea to bring along a pair of comfortable walking shoes.
With the right gear, you’ll be able to enjoy all that Nepal has to offer, even in the middle of winter!
Overview of what to wear in Nepal in January
- Visiting Nepal in January for travel or trekking is also a good idea. This is an ideal time for outdoor activities due to the cool, dry weather.
- Don’t forget to pack warm clothes when packing for your trip. Long pants, closed-toe shoes, and a jacket are all essential.
- It’s important to wear comfortable walking shoes in Nepal because it’s a mountainous country. Prepare for trekking with the right gear, including hiking boots, if you plan to go trekking.
- A modest dress style is appreciated in Nepal. Tank tops, short skirts, and shorts are not recommended.
- Don’t forget to dress respectfully if you visit religious sites. If you wear a hat or sunglasses, remove them and cover your shoulders and knees.
- There is a casual atmosphere in Nepal in general. The dress code for dinner is casual, so you don’t have to worry about it. You’ll be fine as long as you’re comfortable.
- Last but not least, don’t forget your sunscreen! Due to its extreme intensity, you must protect your skin from the sun at high altitudes.
Why is it important to consider what to wear when traveling to Nepal?
If you are visiting Nepal in January, you should consider what to wear in order to stay comfortable and prepared for the climate.
It is important to pack clothes that will keep you warm in January, as the average temperature of Kathmandu is around 3/18 degrees Celsius (low/high) in Kathmandu.
Additionally, packing layers of clothes is a good idea when traveling due to the unpredictable weather.
Related Reading: Backpacking in Nepal
Weather in Nepal in January
It is usually cold in Nepal in January, especially in the higher altitude regions. Lower-lying areas may, however, have quite pleasant weather. Although the weather can vary from region to region in Nepal during January, it is generally cold.
A typical January temperature in Kathmandu is between 3 and 18 degrees Celsius, but at night it can drop below zero. The temperature can drop to below -20 degrees Celsius in higher altitude regions, such as Everest Base Camp.
There is a risk of avalanches in Nepal in January, which should be kept in mind. Avalanches are a real threat in the higher regions due to cold weather and heavy snowfall. Before heading out, make sure you know the weather conditions and take the necessary precautions.
Types of clothes to wear in Nepal in January
Some appropriate clothing to pack for Nepal in January are as follows:
- Long pants
- Long-sleeved shirt
- Sweaters
- Light and heavy jacket
- Trousers
- Shoes
- Thick Socks
- Scarf
- Hat
- Gloves
When hiking in the mountains, be sure to wear layers as the temperature can change quickly, and also wear sturdy shoes with good traction.
Things to Carry in Nepal in January for Trekking
Pack layers of clothing if you are planning to trek in Nepal in January. A base layer made of wool or synthetic materials has the advantage of wicking away sweat and keeping you warm.
While a mid-layer made of fleece or down has the advantage of providing extra insulation. A super down Jacket is a must along with layers of trousers.
A waterproof and breathable outer layer is also essential to protect against the elements. In addition to clothing, you will also need to pack sturdy trekking boots, a hat, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, etc.
What not to wear in Nepal in January?
Some things that you should avoid wearing in Nepal in January are
- Shorts
- Tank Tops
- Sandals
- Revealing Clothes
- Clothing with offensive images or language.
Avoid wearing expensive jewelry or watches, as they may be considered a target for theft. These items of clothing will not keep you warm enough in cooler temperatures.
Personal Experience
I remember one time when I was trekking and it was freezing cold in the morning, but by the afternoon it had warmed up significantly.
As I and my friends were walking to reach the destination. I was glad I had packed other clothing items so that I could take off the layers of clothes and change them.
Another time, I went to play snow and I was glad I had packed my down jacket with some extra socks to keep my feet dry.
Answers and Questions
Is January a good month to visit Nepal?
January is a great time to visit Nepal for travel and trekking. The weather is cool and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities. If you want to enjoy snowfall in Nepal then there is a high possibility in January.
What season is January in Nepal?
January is in winter in Nepal. Nepal experiences five seasons: spring, summer, monsoon, autumn, and winter. Winter lasts from December to February. In Nepali, we called it Shishir Ritu (Mid-January to Mid-March).
How cold is Everest base camp in January?
The temperature at Everest Base Camp during the nighttime can be somewhere between -20 to -3 degrees Celsius. However, temperatures can vary greatly depending on the time of day and weather conditions. For example, it is much colder at night, or if there is a strong wind. Therefore, research before preparing yourself for the range of temperatures if you are planning for an Everest Base Camp Trek in January.
Is Kathmandu cold in January?
Yes, Kathmandu is cold in January. The average high temperature is only about 18 degrees Celsius (64 degrees Fahrenheit), and the average low temperature is about 2 to 3 degrees Celsius (35 degrees Fahrenheit).
Also Read: Facts about Kathmandu
Wrapping Up
Depending upon the season and elevation, the climate in Nepal varied and what you wear in January will depend entirely on which region you are going.
In the capital, Kathmandu, the weather is generally cold, although it can get very cold in the early morning and during the nighttime.
A light jacket or sweater will be sufficient during the daytime but during the morning and night time, you need warmer clothes.
If you are trekking or hiking in mountain regions then you need to dress in layers as the temperature gets too extreme.
Don’t forget to wear a hat (topi) and gloves (panja), as it can get very cold up in the mountains.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be sure to have a great trip to Nepal in January!
