Pokhara in October
October weather, activities, events & insider tips
October Weather in Pokhara
Is October Right for You?
Advantages
- Crystal-clear mountain views - October marks the beginning of the best visibility season with Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges appearing sharp against blue skies 80% of mornings before 10am
- Perfect trekking temperatures - daytime highs of 28°C (82°F) in the valley drop to comfortable 17°C (62°F) at higher elevations, ideal for multi-day Annapurna Circuit or Poon Hill treks without extreme cold gear
- Festival season peaks - Dashain (Nepal's biggest festival) typically falls in October, bringing busy celebrations, decorated temples, and locals in traditional dress throughout the Lakeside area
- Rhododendron forests at optimal color - while spring brings flowers, October showcases the deep green foliage and clear forest paths at 2,000-3,000m (6,562-9,843 ft) elevations with minimal leeches
Considerations
- Afternoon rain interrupts outdoor plans - brief but intense showers occur 10 days of the month, typically 2-4pm, forcing indoor shelter and muddy trails for 1-2 hours
- Peak season pricing begins - accommodation rates increase 40-60% compared to monsoon season as international trekkers arrive, especially around Dashain festival period
- Higher altitude haze - while mornings are clear, afternoon humidity at 70% can create valley fog that obscures mountain views after 3pm on most days
Best Activities in October
Annapurna Circuit Trekking Sections
October offers the first reliable post-monsoon trekking conditions with clear mountain views and stable weather patterns. The 2,000-3,000m (6,562-9,843 ft) sections between Ghorepani and Poon Hill experience minimal rainfall and comfortable 15-20°C (59-68°F) daytime temperatures. Trail conditions are firm but not yet dusty, and teahouses have fully reopened after monsoon closures.
Phewa Lake Boating and Tal Barahi Temple Visits
October's stable weather creates ideal lake conditions with minimal wind and crystal-clear mountain reflections in early morning hours before 9am. The 4.4 km² (1.7 sq mile) lake maintains comfortable temperatures perfect for rowing boats to the island temple. Afternoon humidity enhances the mystical atmosphere around Tal Barahi Temple.
Paragliding from Sarangkot Launch Sites
October provides optimal thermal conditions with stable morning air currents and clear visibility extending 50+ km (31+ miles) to the Annapurna range. Launch elevation at 1,600m (5,249 ft) offers 15-20 minute flights with minimal turbulence. Post-monsoon air clarity creates spectacular aerial photography conditions.
World Peace Pagoda Sunrise Hikes
October mornings provide the year's most reliable sunrise views with minimal cloud cover and temperatures starting at comfortable 17°C (62°F). The 45-minute uphill hike from Phewa Lake gains 200m (656 ft) elevation through rhododendron forest paths that are dry and stable post-monsoon.
International Mountain Museum Cultural Tours
October's afternoon rain periods make this indoor cultural experience perfectly timed for 2-4pm shelter. The museum showcases Himalayan climbing history and Sherpa culture with air-conditioned galleries ideal during 70% humidity periods. Recent 2024 renovations added interactive exhibits on climate change impacts on Himalayan glaciers.
Gupteshwor Cave and Davis Falls Underground Exploration
October's post-monsoon water levels create dramatic underground waterfalls and cave formations at their most impressive. The 3km (1.9 mile) cave system maintains cool 18°C (64°F) temperatures providing relief from afternoon humidity. Davis Falls reaches peak flow from recent rainfall creating thunderous underground chambers.
October Events & Festivals
Dashain Festival
Nepal's most important 15-day celebration honoring goddess Durga with elaborate temple decorations, traditional music, and families in ceremonial dress throughout Pokhara. Witness kite flying competitions over Phewa Lake and special puja ceremonies at Tal Barahi Temple. Local restaurants serve traditional sel roti and goat curry during this period.
Post-Monsoon Trekking Season Opening
Official reopening of high-altitude trekking routes above 3,000m (9,843 ft) as weather conditions stabilize. Teahouses reopen, trail maintenance completes, and helicopter rescues resume full operations. Local trekking agencies offer special group departure discounts for popular circuits.