Kathmandu Valley · – · –
Kathmandu Valley in May
The hottest month in the valley, with dust and pre-monsoon thunderstorms. Buddha Jayanti, the Buddha's birthday, usually falls in May, when Swayambhu and Boudha are lit with butter lamps. Rato Machhindranath's chariot is often still moving through Patan, and the Bhoto Jatra at Jawalakhel may fall now or in June. Good month for early starts and long lunches indoors.
Local tip for May
Walk the stupas at dawn and dusk; middays near 30 °C are tiring on stone squares.
Where to go in May
Kathmandu Valley1,420 mSwayambhunath
The self-born stupa on the hill where the valley's story begins
Kathmandu Valley1,350 mPatan
Yala, the city of metalworkers, courtyards and Buddhist bahals
Kathmandu Valley1,450 mPharping
Guru Rinpoche's caves and the gorge of Dakshinkali on the southern rim
Festivals around May
Trips at their best in May
Elsewhere in Nepal in May
Questions
Is May a good time to visit Kathmandu Valley?
The hottest month in the valley, with dust and pre-monsoon thunderstorms. Buddha Jayanti, the Buddha's birthday, usually falls in May, when Swayambhu and Boudha are lit with butter lamps. Rato Machhindranath's chariot is often still moving through Patan, and the Bhoto Jatra at Jawalakhel may fall now or in June. Good month for early starts and long lunches indoors.
What is the weather like in Kathmandu Valley in May?
Kathmandu 15–29 °C, hot, pre-monsoon storms. Conditions change fast with altitude, so check the forecast for each stop a week before you travel.
Where should we go in Kathmandu Valley in May?
We suggest Swayambhunath, Patan, Pharping. Walk the stupas at dawn and dusk; middays near 30 °C are tiring on stone squares.