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Weather Comparison

Kathmandu vs Pokhara

Side-by-side weather comparison for May

Kathmandu: 26°CPokhara: 26°C142 km apart

May Weather: Kathmandu vs Pokhara

MetricKathmanduPokharaBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer26°C (79°F)26°C (79°F)Tie
Average LowHigher is milder17°C (63°F)16°C (61°F)Kathmandu
Rain DaysFewer is drier22 days22 daysTie
PrecipitationLess is drier203 mm350 mmKathmandu
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier12h/day11h/dayKathmandu
HumidityLower is more comfortable70%70%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer99Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better8 km/h7 km/hPokhara

Which City is Better in May?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Kathmandu edges ahead as the better destination in May. Kathmandu offers 12 hours of daily sunshine with only 22 rain days, while Pokhara sees 11 sunshine hours and 22 rain days.

Kathmandu sits in the comfortable travel range at 26°C. Pokhara is also comfortable at 26°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, both cities are equally dry in May. Kathmandu receives 1 more hour of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Temperature Comparison in May

Kathmandu reaches an average high of 26°C (79°F) and drops to 17°C (63°F) at night during May. The daily temperature range is 9°C, meaning moderate variation throughout the day.

Pokhara averages 26°C (79°F) for the high and 16°C (61°F) for the low, with a daily range of 10°C. The two cities feel quite similar in terms of temperature.

Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in May.

Rainfall Comparison in May

Kathmandu receives approximately 203 mm of rainfall across 22 rain days during May. Rain is frequent, so waterproof gear is essential.

Pokhara sees 350 mm over 22 rain days. Both cities are equally rainy this month.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 70%.

What to Pack: Kathmandu vs Pokhara

Packing for Kathmandu in May

Highs of 26°C, lows of 17°C, 22 rain days

  • light layers
  • a light jacket for evenings
  • sunscreen
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes

Packing for Pokhara in May

Highs of 26°C, lows of 16°C, 22 rain days

  • light layers
  • a light jacket for evenings
  • sunscreen
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes

Pack for both: light layers, a light jacket for evenings, sunscreen, waterproof jacket, compact umbrella, waterproof shoes. These items are useful in either destination during May.

Year-Round Comparison: Kathmandu vs Pokhara

The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month of the year, helping you find the best time to visit either city.May is highlighted for quick reference.

MonthKathmanduPokhara
HighRainHighRain
Jan16°C6d16°C15d
Feb18°C8d18°C18d
Mar22°C10d22°C18d
Apr25°C13d25°C15d
May26°C22d26°C22d
Jun26°C27d26°C28d
Jul25°C31d26°C31d
Aug25°C31d26°C30d
Sep25°C28d25°C26d
Oct23°C15d23°C17d
Nov20°C6d20°C15d
Dec17°C3d17°C13d
26°

Kathmandu Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

26°

Pokhara Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Kathmandu warmer than Pokhara in May?
Kathmandu and Pokhara have the same average high temperature of 26°C (79°F) in May. The average lows are 17°C and 16°C respectively.
Which city gets more rain in May, Kathmandu or Pokhara?
Both cities average 22 rain days in May with similar precipitation levels.
Is it better to visit Kathmandu or Pokhara in May?
It depends on your preferences. Kathmandu averages 26°C and 12 hours of daily sunshine with 22 rain days. Pokhara averages 26°C with 11 sunshine hours and 22 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Pokhara. For fewer rain days, both are equal.
How far apart are Kathmandu and Pokhara?
Kathmandu and Pokhara are approximately 142 km (88 miles) apart. Kathmandu is located in Nepal (Asia) while Pokhara is in Nepal (Asia).
What is the best month to visit Kathmandu and Pokhara?
For Kathmandu, April tends to be the best month with 12 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 25°C. For Pokhara, April is typically ideal with 12 sunshine hours and 25°C highs.

Compare Kathmandu and Pokhara in Other Months

Climate data sourced from the Open-Meteo Historical Weather API, using ERA5 reanalysis data covering 30-year normals from 1991 to 2020. All temperatures shown in Celsius with Fahrenheit equivalents. Rain days count days with 1 mm or more of precipitation. Sunshine hours represent average daily values. This comparison is generated from long-term climate averages and individual trips may vary.

Kathmandu coordinates: 27.72°N, 85.32°E | Pokhara coordinates: 28.21°N, 83.99°E