Nepal is widely known as a trekker’s paradise, but many travelers often hesitate to visit during the monsoon season (June to August). However, the truth is, monsoon treks in Nepal can be equally rewarding and adventurous. Certain trekking regions of Nepal such as Upper Mustang, Dolpo, Nar Phu Valley, Annapurna Circuit, and Manaslu Circuit lie in the rain-shadow areas of the Himalayas. These treks remain relatively dry even during the rainy season, making them excellent options for adventure lovers. At Himalayan Adventure International Treks, we specialize in organizing safe and memorable monsoon treks and tours, including the sacred Kailash Manasarovar Yatra.

In this detailed guide, we will cover itineraries, costs, permits, guides and porter services, food and accommodation, transportation, duration, distance, AMS prevention, and everything you need to know before planning a monsoon trek in Nepal.

Why Trek in Nepal During Monsoon?

Rain-shadow trekking regions – Destinations like Upper Mustang, Dolpo, Nar Phu Valley, and Manaslu are protected by high Himalayan ranges and receive very little rainfall.

Fewer crowds – Compared to autumn and spring, trails are less crowded, offering a peaceful trekking experience.

Green landscapes – Lower regions become lush and vibrant due to the monsoon showers.

Wildflowers and culture – This season coincides with various local festivals, giving trekkers a deeper cultural experience.

Best for Kailash Yatra – The famous Kailash Manasarovar Tour is best done during monsoon due to favorable weather conditions in the Tibetan plateau.

Upper Mustang Trek in Monsoon

Highlights

• A forbidden kingdom rich in Tibetan culture

• Lo Manthang, ancient monasteries, caves, and unique desert-like landscapes

• Perfect during monsoon as it lies in the rain shadow of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges

Duration & Distance

• 12–15 days trek

• 160 km (100 miles) approx. walking distance

Cost

• USD 1,800 – 2,500 per person (depending on group size)

Itinerary (sample 14 days)

1. Kathmandu arrival

2. Drive or fly to Pokhara

3. Fly to Jomsom and trek to Kagbeni 4–10. Trek via Chele, Syangbochen, Tsarang, Lo Manthang, explore monasteries 11–13. Return via Dhakmar, Ghiling, Chhuksang

4. Fly back Jomsom–Pokhara–Kathmandu

Permits

• Restricted Area Permit: USD 500 (10 days)

• ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit): USD 30

Guide and Porter

• Guide: USD 30–40 per day

• Porter: USD 25–30 per day

Transportation

• Kathmandu–Pokhara by tourist bus or flight

• Pokhara–Jomsom by domestic flight

Food & Accommodation

• Tea houses with basic meals (Dal Bhat, noodles, soups)

• Lodges cost USD 5–10 per night

• Meals around USD 5–10 per item

Nar Phu Valley and Annapurna Circuit Trek in Monsoon

Highlights

• Remote Tibetan villages of Nar and Phu

• High mountain passes like Kang La (5,320 m)

• Option to extend with Annapurna Circuit trek

Duration & Distance

• 18–22 days

• Approx. 260 km (160 miles)

Cost

• USD 1,700 – 2,400 per person

Itinerary (sample 20 days)

1–2. Kathmandu to Jagat 3–6. Trek to Koto, Meta, Phu 7–8. Explore Phu and Nar village 9–11. Trek via Kang La Pass to Ngawal 12–17. Continue Annapurna Circuit (Manang, Thorong La, Muktinath, Jomsom) 18–20. Return to Pokhara and Kathmandu

Permits

• Nar Phu Restricted Area Permit: USD 100 (Sept–Nov) / USD 75 (Dec–Aug)

• ACAP: USD 30

• TIMS: USD 20

Guide and Porter

• Guide: USD 30–40 per day

• Porter: USD 25–30 per day

Food & Accommodation

• Tea houses in villages

• Food: USD 25–30 per day

Upper Dolpo Trek in Monsoon

Highlights

• Phoksundo Lake

• Ancient Bon monasteries

• Remote landscapes with Tibetan influence

Duration & Distance

• 24–28 days

• Approx. 350 km (217 miles)

Cost

• USD 3,500 – 4,500 per person

Itinerary (sample 26 days)

1–2. Kathmandu to Nepalgunj to Juphal 3–8. Trek via Dunai, Tarakot, Laini, Nawarpani 9–14. Dho Tarap, Numa La, Bagala Pass 15–20. Shey Gompa, Saldang, Yangze Gompa 21–24. Phoksundo Lake exploration 25–26. Juphal – Nepalgunj – Kathmandu

Permits

• Upper Dolpo Restricted Area Permit: USD 500 (first 10 days)

• Shey Phoksundo National Park Fee: USD 30

Guide and Porter

• Guide: USD 35–45 per day

• Porter: USD 30–35 per day

Food & Accommodation

• Mostly camping trek

• Food & cook crew included in cost

Lower Dolpo Trek in Monsoon

Highlights

• Shey Phoksundo Lake

• Remote villages and yak caravans

• Less challenging than Upper Dolpo

Duration & Distance

• 18–21 days

• Approx. 240 km (150 miles)

Cost

• USD 2,800 – 3,500 per person

Itinerary (sample 20 days)

1–2. Kathmandu–Nepalgunj–Juphal 3–8. Trek through Dunai, Tarakot, Dho Tarap 9–14. Cross Numa La and Baga La Passes 15–19. Phoksundo Lake, Ringmo, Juphal 20. Return to Kathmandu

Permits

• Lower Dolpo Restricted Area Permit: USD 20 per week

• Shey Phoksundo National Park Fee: USD 30

Food & Accommodation

• Combination of camping and tea houses

Manaslu Circuit Trek in Monsoon

Highlights

• Remote and less crowded

• Stunning views of Mt. Manaslu (8,163m)

• Larkya La Pass (5,106 m)

Duration & Distance

• 14–18 days

• Approx. 177 km (110 miles)

Cost

• USD 1,500 – 2,200 per person

Itinerary (sample 16 days)

1–2. Kathmandu to Soti Khola 3–6. Machha Khola, Jagat, Deng 7–10. Namrung, Samagaon, Samdo 11–13. Larkya La Pass, Bimthang 14–16. Dharapani, drive to Kathmandu

Permits

• Manaslu Restricted Area Permit: USD 70 per week

• MCAP (Manaslu Conservation Area Permit): USD 30

• ACAP: USD 30

Food & Accommodation

• Tea houses available

• Food approx. USD 25 per day

AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) and Prevention

• Ascend gradually and include acclimatization days

• Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol

• Diamox can be used as a preventive medicine

• Always trek with experienced guides

Kailash Manasarovar Tour in Monsoon

The sacred Kailash Manasarovar Yatra lies in Tibet’s rain shadow zone, making it a perfect pilgrimage during monsoon.

Duration

• 12–14 days

Cost

• For Indian pilgrims: INR 205,000 – 220,000 

• For Non-Indian pilgrims: USD 2,200 – 2,500

Highlights

• Mount Kailash Parikrama

• Lake Manasarovar holy dip

• Pilgrimage significance for Hindu, Buddhist, Jain, and Bon traditions

Group Join, Solo, Family & Couple Monsoon Treks

• Group Join: Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks organizes fixed departures in monsoon. Group joining costs are 15–20% cheaper.

• Solo Treks: Possible but require a guide in restricted areas. Costs are slightly higher due to lack of cost sharing.

• Family Treks: Safe with customized itineraries, slower pace, and flexible routes.

• Couple Treks: Private arrangements available, cost approx. USD 1,800–2,500 per person depending on the trek.

Is It Worth Trekking in Nepal During Monsoon?

Yes! If you choose the right destinations in the rain-shadow zones, trekking in Nepal during monsoon is both safe and rewarding. Upper Mustang, Dolpo, Nar Phu Valley, Annapurna Circuit, Manaslu Circuit, and Kailash Manasarovar are all highly recommended.

Which is the Best Monsoon Trek – Dolpo, Upper Mustang, Nar Phu, Annapurna Circuit, or Manaslu?

• Upper Mustang – Best for culture and Tibetan landscapes

• Dolpo (Upper/Lower) – Best for adventure and remote exploration

• Nar Phu Valley + Annapurna Circuit – Best for combining remote valleys with classic circuit trek

• Manaslu Circuit – Best for moderate challenge and beautiul

• Kailash Manasarovar – Best for spiritual travelers

In truth, all of these treks are excellent monsoon choices, and your decision depends on time, budget, and personal interest.

At Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks, we have decades of experience organizing safe, affordable, and customized monsoon treks and Kailash tours. Whether you are a solo traveler, family, group, or couple, we ensure professional guides, reliable porters, proper permits, quality logistics, and unforgettable experiences in the Himalayas.

Contact us today to book your next monsoon trek in Nepal and Tibet!