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Weather Comparison

Pokhara vs Kathmandu

Side-by-side weather comparison for May

Pokhara: 26°CKathmandu: 26°C142 km apart

May Weather: Pokhara vs Kathmandu

MetricPokharaKathmanduBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer26°C (79°F)26°C (79°F)Tie
Average LowHigher is milder16°C (61°F)17°C (63°F)Kathmandu
Rain DaysFewer is drier22 days22 daysTie
PrecipitationLess is drier350 mm203 mmKathmandu
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier11h/day12h/dayKathmandu
HumidityLower is more comfortable70%70%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer99Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better7 km/h8 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.

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

Pokhara reaches an average high of 26°C (79°F) and drops to 16°C (61°F) at night during May. The daily temperature range is 10°C, meaning moderate variation throughout the day.

Kathmandu averages 26°C (79°F) for the high and 17°C (63°F) for the low, with a daily range of 9°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

Pokhara receives approximately 350 mm of rainfall across 22 rain days during May. Rain is frequent, so waterproof gear is essential.

Kathmandu sees 203 mm over 22 rain days. Both cities are equally rainy this month.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 70%.

What to Pack: Pokhara vs Kathmandu

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

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

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: Pokhara vs Kathmandu

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.

MonthPokharaKathmandu
HighRainHighRain
Jan16°C15d16°C6d
Feb18°C18d18°C8d
Mar22°C18d22°C10d
Apr25°C15d25°C13d
May26°C22d26°C22d
Jun26°C28d26°C27d
Jul26°C31d25°C31d
Aug26°C30d25°C31d
Sep25°C26d25°C28d
Oct23°C17d23°C15d
Nov20°C15d20°C6d
Dec17°C13d17°C3d
26°

Pokhara Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

26°

Kathmandu Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Compare Pokhara and Kathmandu 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.

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