Pokhara is often called the jewel of Nepal and the Gateway to the Annapurnas. While this lakeside city is stunning all year round, autumn (September to November) is hands down the best season to experience its magic.

After the monsoon rains wash the air clean, the skies turn brilliant blue, and the snowcapped Annapurna range and Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain) shine in breathtaking clarity. Add in Nepal’s most important festivals, crisp weather, and endless adventure opportunities, and you’ve got the perfect travel season.

Pokhara Autumn Weather at a Glance

Autumn in Pokhara is characterized by pleasant temperatures, clear skies, and fresh air that make it the most inviting time of year. September still carries traces of the monsoon, with warm days and occasional showers, but by October the weather stabilizes into sunny, dry days with crisp evenings.The skies during autumn are crystal clear, offering breathtaking views of the Annapurna range and Machhapuchhre, often reflected perfectly in Phewa Lake.

Festivals That Bring Pokhara Alive

Autumn isn’t just about landscapes—it’s also the festival season in Nepal.

Dashain (late Sept–Oct)

Nepal’s biggest festival, celebrating the triumph of good over evil. Families reunite, receive blessings, and enjoy grand feasts. Streets and homes in Pokhara are filled with joy and tradition.

Tihar (Oct–Nov)

Also called the Festival of Lights, Tihar decorates Pokhara with oil lamps, candles, and fireworks. Each day honors different animals—crows, dogs, cows—and ends with Bhai Tika, a heartwarming day of sibling blessings.

Experiencing these festivals in Pokhara gives travelers a true taste of Nepali culture.

Best Things to Do in Pokhara During Autumn

1. Trekking the Annapurnas

Autumn is widely regarded as the best trekking season in Nepal, and Pokhara is the perfect gateway to some of the world’s most iconic trails. The weather creates an ideal condition for exploring routes like the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, which offers dramatic Himalayan landscapes, or the shorter Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek, famous for its panoramic sunrise views. 

For those seeking something less crowded yet equally rewarding, the Mardi Himal Trek provides peaceful paths and stunning scenery. Trails are drier and safer after the monsoon rains, and with the mountains at their most visible, autumn trekking around Pokhara promises unforgettable adventures.

2. Adventure Sports

For thrill-seekers, Pokhara in autumn is a playground of adrenaline-fueled activities. Stable weather makes it one of the best places in the world for paragliding, offering the surreal experience of soaring above Phewa Lake with the Annapurna range as a backdrop. 

Adventure lovers can also enjoy zip-lining through the hills, ultralight flights that provide bird’s-eye views of the Himalayas, and the increasingly popular hot air balloon rides, which lift you gently into the sky at sunrise for panoramic views of the mountains and valleys. With comfortable autumn weather ensuring safe and enjoyable conditions, Pokhara stands out as a global hub for outdoor adventure.

3. Lakeside Serenity

Beyond its adventurous side, Pokhara also offers peaceful moments of reflection and relaxation, especially in autumn. The calm waters of the lakes mirror the surrounding peaks, making a simple boat ride feel magical. In the middle of the lake, the Tal Barahi Temple welcomes visitors seeking a quiet spiritual experience. 

For breathtaking views, a sunrise trip to Sarangkot is unforgettable, as the first rays of light touch the snowcapped Annapurnas and illuminate the valley below. The lakeside area itself is perfect for leisurely walks, café hopping, or simply enjoying the golden glow of autumn sunsets. It is this serene atmosphere, combined with natural beauty, that makes Pokhara a destination where travelers can truly slow down and savor every moment.

Pokhara in autumn offers the perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure. From crystal-clear Himalayan views and peaceful lakeside strolls to the vibrant energy of Dashain and Tihar, this season captures Nepal at its very best.